24 Hours in Bergen
One of the great things about Bergen is that the city center is relatively small and well-connected by buses, making it ideal for a 24-hour itinerary that covers all the highlights. With such an efficient transport network at your fingertips, you can tick off the main landmarks even if you only have one day to explore. Below is an example of how to make the most of a 24-hour itinerary in this beautiful city!
Morning
Start Your Day Right with a Good Breakfast
A hearty breakfast is essential for setting a positive tone for the day. If you’re staying at a hotel, most offer a generous and satisfying breakfast buffet. Alternatively, you can visit one of Bergen’s cozy cafés, such as the charming Det Lille Kaffekompaniet, Kaf Kafe, or Fjåk x Kode. These centrally located spots serve everything from sweet pastries to freshly made sandwiches—perfect for a delicious morning meal.
A Trip to Mount Fløyen – A Must-Do in Bergen
No visit to Bergen is complete without a trip to Mount Fløyen. From the top, you’ll enjoy one of the city’s most stunning views. You might also encounter the friendly goats that roam the area and can enjoy a refreshing walk surrounded by nature and fresh mountain air. Starting your day with a bit of outdoor activity can work wonders—and if you’re craving a second cup of coffee, Fløistuen Café at the top has you covered.
Getting to Fløyen – Choose Your Own Adventure
There are several ways to incorporate Fløyen into your day. After a satisfying breakfast, you can opt for an energizing hike to the top, making it your morning workout. If you prefer a more relaxed start, you can take the Fløibanen funicular and enjoy the scenic ride up.
Add a Cultural Touch with a Guided Tour
To enrich your visit with some history and culture, consider joining a guided tour. These tours provide fascinating insights into Bergen’s heritage while allowing you to explore key parts of the city. Many of them conveniently end at, or partway up, Mount Fløyen—making it easy to combine your cultural experience with a visit to this iconic viewpoint. Here are a few recommended tours that conclude at Fløyen:
The following guided tours are also ideal for exploring Bergen in the fresh morning light:
- Food and Culture walk
- Walking Tour in Bergen of the Past and Present
- City Walking Tour – Bergen On Foot
Afternoon
From the Mountaintop to the City Streets
After soaking in the panoramic views from Mount Fløyen, you can either walk back down to the city or hop on the Fløibanen funicular for a scenic ride. If the weather calls for a sweet treat, make a stop at Tjommis, located right next to the Fløibanen station. This new spot serves up delicious soft-serve ice cream and cinnamon buns, complete with a fantastic selection of toppings.
Lunchtime Options in the Heart of the City
If you’re starting to feel hungry around lunchtime and ice cream isn’t quite enough, you’re in luck—just a short walk away is Trekroneren, Bergen’s famous hot dog stand. Here, you’ll find a variety of unique and flavorful sausages that are sure to keep you full through the afternoon.
Stroll Through the Historic Bryggen
You’re now just minutes from Bryggen, Bergen’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk along Bryggen is a must during your visit. Admire the charming, colorful wooden buildings, browse the quaint shops, and wander through the narrow alleyways of the old Hanseatic structures. For a deeper look into the city’s trading past, consider visiting the Hanseatic Museum, located nearby.
Enjoy a Drink by the Waterfront
If the sun is shining, you might be tempted by a cold beer at one of the outdoor cafés along the Bryggen waterfront. On warm days, the area buzzes with life and offers a vibrant atmosphere—perfect for enjoying the historic surroundings with a refreshing drink in hand.
Discover Bergen’s Seafood Culture at the Fish Market
After exploring Bryggen, head over to the Fish Market, just a short walk away. Seafood is a cornerstone of Norwegian cuisine, and Bergen’s Fish Market has long played a central role in the city’s food culture. Today, you’ll find an excellent selection of fresh seafood. Every other Saturday, the Farmers Market (Bondens Marked) sets up nearby, offering high-quality, homemade products—ideal souvenirs to take home. If you’re in the mood for seafood for dinner, the market is also home to great dining spots, such as Fjellskål and Fish Me, located inside Mathallen.
Dinner Options to Suit Every Taste
Bergen has something for every palate. For Italian cuisine, head to Stefano, Porto13 Pizzeria & Bar, or Bien Centro. If you’re craving a classic burger and fries, popular spots include Hekkan Burger and Burgeren. For traditional Norwegian dishes, consider Søstrene Hagelin, Bryggeloftet & Stuene, or Bryggen Tracteursted—all centrally located and perfect for experiencing local flavors.
Take an Afternoon Stroll to Nordnes
After dinner, take a leisurely walk toward Nordnes Park. The route winds through charming streets and offers beautiful views of the surrounding areas, including Laksevåg and Askøy. If you’re traveling with children, the Bergen Aquarium, also located in Nordnes, is a great family-friendly attraction. For a fun and scenic journey, you can even take the charming little Beffen ferry from Bryggen across the harbor to the aquarium.
Evening
Evening Strolls and City Vibes in Bergen
After a day of sightseeing and a satisfying dinner, head over to Torgallmenningen, one of Bergen’s main shopping streets. Whether you’re in the mood to browse the shops or simply take in the lively atmosphere, this bustling square is always full of life. While you’re there, admire the impressive architecture of the National Theatre or check if Ole Bull Scene has any performances or events worth attending.
Relax by the Water at Lille Lungegårdsvann
From Torgallmenningen, continue your walk toward Lille Lungegårdsvann, a picturesque lake nestled in the heart of the city. It’s a great spot for a peaceful stroll or a moment of rest on one of the benches surrounding the water. On sunny summer days, locals often relax on the grassy areas, creating a vibrant and laid-back atmosphere. If you’re interested in art, several of the KODE art museums are located around the lake, offering diverse exhibitions and cultural experiences.
Experience Bergen’s Nightlife – Your Way
As evening falls, you might be ready to experience Bergen’s nightlife. Looking for a drink with a view? Try a rooftop bar like 360 Xhibition or MM Atmosphere. For something more playful, Bergen Camping offers indoor mini-golf in a fun, relaxed setting.
If you’re in the mood for dancing, head to popular clubs like Vaskeriet or Biblioteket Bar, where the energy runs high into the early hours. Prefer a quieter, more intimate atmosphere where you can actually hold a conversation? Baran is a cozy bar with a warm vibe and soft music—perfect for a relaxed end to your evening.
If you’re not up for a bar and skipped a guided tour during the day, consider this fun and unique evening Segway tour instead:
Night
Where to Stay in Bergen
As night falls and you’re ready to rest after a full day of sights, flavors, and experiences, having a comfortable place to stay is essential. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, prioritizing comfort, or dreaming of a luxurious hotel with spa facilities and relaxation, Bergen has something to suit every traveler’s needs.
For more information and tips on Bergen, check out our archive.
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