Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Bergen

This hotel is highly regarded for its prime location directly on the historic Bryggen wharf, offering guests unparalleled access to Bergen's most iconic sights. Its exceptional breakfast buffet is consistently highlighted as a standout feature, providing a wide array of delicious options. The staff generally receives praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While many guests find the rooms to be clean and comfortable, some note that they can be on the smaller side or appear somewhat dated. The hotel is an excellent fit for sightseers and couples due to its central, walkable setting, and its comprehensive amenities also appeal to business travelers. To make the most of your stay, consider experiencing the highly-rated breakfast and be aware that some rooms may experience noise from the vibrant surrounding area.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed to enhance guest comfort and convenience. Guests appreciate the well-equipped gym, which includes free weights and cardio machines, along with a sauna and steam room for relaxation. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, ensuring guests can stay connected. The presence of ice machines on various floors adds to the convenience, though some guests reported them being out of order occasionally. While the hotel does not feature a swimming pool, the wellness amenities are generally well-received. Some guests noted a limited number of power outlets in rooms, which can be inconvenient for charging multiple devices. The elevator system is generally efficient, though some experienced periodic issues or long queues during peak times.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is varied. Many guests describe their rooms as clean and praise the comfortable beds and quality linens, ensuring a restful sleep. Some rooms are noted for their spaciousness and well-appointed bathrooms. However, a recurring concern for some is the room size, with several guests finding them to be small or dark, sometimes with limited natural light or views of internal walls. Noise levels can be an issue, with reports of thin walls allowing sound from neighboring rooms or outside disturbances. Issues with temperature control in rooms, leading to them being too warm, were also mentioned. While some found amenities like the hairdryer and iron useful, others reported them being broken or dirty. Some guests also noted inconsistencies in daily housekeeping, including uncleaned surfaces or stained sheets.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast buffet is a consistent highlight, receiving widespread acclaim for its extensive variety and high quality. Guests frequently mention the delicious selection of fresh produce, hot and cold options, and the inclusion of gluten-free and vegan choices. The breakfast staff are often commended for their attentiveness and efficiency, even during busy periods. While the coffee quality received mixed reviews, the overall breakfast experience is overwhelmingly positive. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar area. The bar is described as cozy, with some guests enjoying the outdoor seating. Food served in the restaurant and bar is generally considered good, though some found the service to be slow or the menu options limited outside of breakfast hours.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is its most celebrated attribute, placing guests directly on the historic Bryggen wharf and within easy walking distance of Bergen's main attractions. Guests appreciate being close to the fish market, numerous shops, and restaurants. A significant convenience is the airport bus stop located directly in front of the hotel, providing seamless transfers. The hotel's proximity to public transport options, including the light rail, further enhances accessibility. For those arriving by car, an underground garage is available nearby, though parking is managed separately and can be expensive. The hotel's position makes it an ideal base for exploring the city on foot, minimizing the need for additional transportation.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receive high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. Many guests highlight the welcoming reception and the staff's willingness to assist with requests, such as room changes or providing local information. The check-in process is often described as quick and efficient, though some guests experienced long queues during peak times. While most interactions with staff are positive, some reviews mention isolated instances of unhelpful or slow service from certain front desk agents or bar staff. Housekeeping service is noted for its thoroughness when performed, though some guests expressed dissatisfaction with the frequency of room cleaning, which is not always daily, or with missed replenishment of in-room amenities.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel's housekeeping frequency is not always daily, with some rooms serviced every three days, which can lead to a build-up of used towels or unemptied bins. The hotel is a popular venue for events, and guests have occasionally reported event noise from the ballroom or nightclub, which can be audible in some rooms, particularly on lower floors. While the hotel aims to provide a comfortable stay, some guests noted that the design of the power outlets in rooms can be inconvenient, with limited numbers or placement that requires lights to remain on for charging. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with animals.