3 Days in Bergen Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Bergen, Norway
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If you’re planning to spend 3 days in Bergen, Norway, then you’re in for a treat! (And in the right place, too, as you’ve just stumbled upon the ultimate 3-day Bergen itinerary…)
Situated in Western Norway, between seven mountains and two of Norway’s most stunning fjords, Bergen, Norway is one of the most breathtaking cities, in one of the most beautiful countries on the planet.
More than just a pretty setting though, Bergen is packed with things to do. From insanely beautiful hikes, fascinating museums, and the old Hanseatic wharf, to fjord cruises, waterfront wine-sipping, kayaking, fishing, and simply lapping up the views, your 3 days in Bergen will be well spent!
Despite being Norway’s second-largest city (with a population of almost 300,000), Bergen exudes endless small-town charm and character. For nature lovers and history buffs alike, Bergen is the ultimate Scandinavian destination.
Clearly, I fell in love with Bergen – and with this itinerary at your fingertips, I know you will too. Here’s the ultimate guide and itinerary for 3 days in Bergen, including where to stay, the best things to do, where to eat and drink, and how to stay on budget (because Norway ain’t cheap, my friends).
Where to Stay in Bergen, Norway
To make the most of your limited time in Bergen, book a hotel with a central location, close to the city center, waterfront, and Bryggen Wharf.
My favorite place to stay in Bergen is right on the Vรฅgen Harbor, at the Clarion Hotel Admiral – and honestly, I can’t recommend it enough. The hotel is modern, clean, and very comfortable, within walking distance of everything you’ll want to see and do, and the staff members are so kind!
But the best part of staying at the Clarion Hotel Admiral? Waking up to stunning views of Bryggen’s old, colorful wooden houses; gleaming seawater; and the surrounding mountains!
Best Hotels in Bergen, Norway
Luxury ($$$)
- Opus 16: A beautiful, luxurious hotel perfectly situated in central Bergen, Opus 16 is housed in a historic building from 1876. Offers an amazing breakfast spread and an exhibition of local artists’ work. Click here to book it.
- Bergen Bรธrs Hotel: One of the most luxurious hotels in Bergen in a historic stock exchange building from 1862. Choose Bergen Bรธrs Hotel when only the best will do. Click here to book it.
Mid-Range ($$)
- Thon Hotel Orion: If you love a colorful design hotel with epic views, choose the Thon Hotel Orion. It’s situated close to Bryggen Wharf District. Click here to book it.
- Clarion Hotel Admiral: As I mentioned above, I love everything about Clarion Hotel Admiral… Especially the views! Also, the breakfast spread is pretty amazing. Click here to book it.
From luxe city hotels and charming B&Bs to vacation rentals, this website always has the best deals on accommodation – and, often, free cancellation! You can find great deals on Bergen accommodation here.
Staying on Budget: Get the Bergen Card
To make the most of 3 days in Bergen, Norway for less, consider purchasing the Visit Bergen tourism office’s Bergen Card.
With the Bergen Card, you’ll receive free or discounted admission to most of Bergen’s top attractions, museums, events, and sightseeing tours. Regional bus travel and transportation on the Light Rail to/from the airport (a 45-minute journey) are also included for free!
I packed a lot of activities into my 3 days in Bergen, and the Bergen Card saved me a small fortune. A wise and worthy investment, indeed!
You can purchase a digital card online, or pick up a physical card at Bergen’s tourist office or select hotel reception desks.
Things to Do in Bergen in 3 Days: The Perfect Itinerary
Logistics out of the way, let’s dive into your perfect 3-day Bergen itinerary.
Day 1 of 3 Days in Bergen
On your first day in Bergen, I recommend exploring the city itself.
Check out the scenery, museums, historic sights (like the fish market and Bryggen Wharf), restaurants, cafรฉs, and shops. Just roam around, see what you find, and get a vibe for Bergen.
If you’re up for it, squeeze in some kayaking too.
1. Coffee & Brunch
Norway’s cities take coffee culture pretty seriously, and Bergen is no different. I don’t know about you, but for me, the best trips start with an excellent coffee! So kick off Day 1 at one of Bergenโs best spots for a cuppa and a pastry.
My top three picks for Bergen cafรฉs are Blom, Det Lille Kaffe Kompaniet, and Kaffemisjonen.
Toward the bottom of this article, youโll find all of my top picks for cafรฉs, restaurants, and bars to try during 3 days in Bergen!
2. Kayak Around Bergen’s Magnificent Coastline & Islands
In the summer, one of the best ways to see Bergen is from the sea. So head out on this guided kayaking tour!
On this kayaking excursion around รygarden, you’ll explore the magnificent seas and island chains in the region. As you kayak between islands and reefs, you’ll see some breathtaking scenery and sea life, and your guide will share Bergen’s interesting history.
The tour leaves every day at 9:30 AM. It’s 5 hours long, so you’ll have plenty more time to enjoy the day on land! Make sure to book in advance! Click here to book it now.
3. Roam around Bergen City Center
After breakfast, start to get to know Bergen by exploring the modern city center and the Vรฅgen Harbor on foot. Roam the streets, see the parks, mosey in and out of shops, people watch, and enjoy the fresh air.
When the weather’s good, there is nothing better than an early morning stroll through Bergen’s charming streets, surrounded by so much natural beauty – tall trees, soaring mountains, and endless ocean.
4. Savor Seafood at the Bergen Fish Market (Fisketorget)
Just underneath the Visit Bergen tourism office (where you can pick up your Bergen Card), you’ll find the Fisketorget – or Bergen’s fish market – in all its glory.
Providing the people of Bergen with freshly caught seafood since 1276, this historically important and iconic market is definitely worth a visit.
(And no, I did not mistype: 1276! Can you believe that?)
The indoor market is open year-round, but in the summer, it sprawls outdoors too. Fresh fish, seafood, fruit, and vegetable stalls flow into the streets, while restaurant stands serve up the freshest regional delicacies.
If you’re a seafood fan, the fish market is sure to send your taste buds into a frenzy! It’s literal seafood heaven.
5. Explore Bryggen: The Historic Hanseatic Wharf
Just a few steps from the Fisketorget lies Bryggen Wharf, Bergen’s most famous, historic district – which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bryggen is stunning. Along the wharf, wooden buildings stand tall in different shades of yellow, orange, and red, reminiscent of times when German merchants dominated the area with trade (from the 14th to the mid-16th century).
A little history: Though the Hanseatic buildings of Bryggen look super old, they were actually rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1702 devastated the entire city, reducing it to ash. Flames have ravaged Bryggen many times, yet its foundation and history date back to the 11th century.
Bryggen deserves a leisurely stroll or twoโฆ As you meander through the narrow alleyways, in and out of little shops, past historic wooden houses, and down cobbled streets, the lively atmosphere will transport you back several hundred years.
With so much beauty to take in, so many lovely locals to talk to, and some great museums to peruse, Bryggen won’t disappoint.
6. Visit The Hanseatic Museum
At the Hanseatic Museum, you’ll glimpse into the lives of Germanic traders and merchants of the Hanseatic League, who lived and worked in Bergen for hundreds of years and put Bergen on the map.
At the museum, you’ll understand their cultural impact, see how they worked and lived (in their actual living quarters!), and witness many of their personal artifacts.
If you visit just one Bergen museum, let this be it, so you can learn about Bergen’s cultural roots and discover how the city evolved into what it is today.
The Hanseatic Museum is open from May through September every year!
7. Explore the Bergenhus Fortress
As you explore the harbor, you will stumble upon the imposing Bergenhus Fortress – one of Norway’s oldest and best-preserved fortresses.
Bergenhus only saw battle once, in 1665 when a large Dutch fleet took refuge from English warships. Bergenhus strongly opposed the British attacks in what is now known as the Battle of Vรฅgen. During World War II, the German occupying forces also used the fortress as their western headquarters.
There’s a free museum on site; exhibitions include women’s roles in Norway’s defense, Bergen’s resistance during World War II, the illegal press from 1940-45, and the Bergen media in times of crisis.
No doubt, the fortress and museum are worth a quick visit during your three days in Bergen.
8. go up the Flรธibanen Funicular for Sunset
After an amazing first day kayaking, exploring the city center, eating delicious food, and perusing museums, why not finish with an amazing view?
Right before night falls, ascend up, up, up to the top of Mount Flรธyen on the Flรธibanen Funicular cable car!
Just as the sun kisses the horizon, you’ll see the most spectacular view of the Bergenshalvรธyen Peninsula, mountain peaks, city lights, and dimming skies of orange, pink, and lavender.
In that moment, you’ll feel completely content. (Or, maybe, you’ll think the moment would’ve been even better with a bottle of wine and some snacks… Just helping you think ahead, friend!)
The Flรธibanen Funicular cable car operates daily, until midnight, so you’ll have no excuse not to experience the views of Bergen from Mount Flรธyen at night.
Day 2 of 3 Days in Bergen, Norway
Known as the “Gateway to the Fjords,” Bergen is situated between the Sognefjord – the deepest and longest fjord in Norway – and the jaw-droppingly beautiful Hardangerfjord. So it’s only natural that you should pack in plenty of outdoor activities during your stay.
That’s what Day 2 of your 3 days in Bergen is all about.
9. Hike the Vidden Trail (from Ulriken to Flรธyen)
I kicked off my second day in Bergen with a scrumptious breakfast at the Clarion Hotel Admiral (where I also pilfered bread, charcuterie, cheese, and fruit for my lunch picnic) – ready for an unforgettable hike from Mount Ulriken, all the way to Mount Flรธyen, on the Vidden Hiking Trail.
Stretching roughly 9 miles (15 kilometers), this Vidden hike is one of the most amazing hikes I have ever done in my life… And from New Zealand to Peru to Belize, I have hiked a lot!
I promise, hiking in Bergen, Norway will be an unforgettable adventure and the absolute highlight of your 3 days in Bergen.
The views of countless mountain peaks, ocean blues, the deepest fjord trenches, gleaming lakes, beautiful cities below, and even the Folgefonna Glacier (if you’re lucky!) are spectacular and change constantly as you traverse.
Vidden Hike Details
I did this hike in April and there was still quite a lot of snow on the ground!
Late May through early October is ideal for hiking in Bergen. April is iffy. Throughout the winter months, hiking isn’t possible; cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing is the way to go.
Through the snow and sludge in April, the hike took about 5.5 hours.
To begin the hike, I rode the Ulriken643 cable car up to the top of Mount Ulriken, and then took the Flรธibanen Funicular back down Mount Flรธyen after. I recommend you do the same!
And as with any mountain hiking, check the conditions before you go and be prepared for anything.
Read my post about Hiking in Bergen, Norway for more information about this hike!
HOT TIP: If you’re visiting in the winter, consider booking this Snowshoe Hiking Tour!
10. Try Traditional Norwegian Food
After your big hike, you’ll surely have worked up an appetite! So tonight, why not treat yourself to traditional Norwegian cuisine – perhaps at Norway’s best fjord-to-table seafood restaurant?
Toward the bottom of this article, youโll find all of my top picks for cafรฉs, restaurants, and bars to try during 72 hours in Bergen!
Day 3 of 3 Days in Bergen
Hopefully, you’re well-rested after your massive hike… and ready for another day exploring Bergen’s great outdoors on Day 3!
11. Nature Walk to Revurtjern Lake
I couldn’t get enough of Bergen’s fresh mountain air, unbelievable views, and fun hiking trails, so on Day 3, I decided to ascend Floyen again (via the funicular) for a super easy walk to Revurtjern Lake.
There are also plenty of other easy trails to explore – many complete with trolls staring down you from the trees and signs stating that “witches are forbidden.” And that’s just Norwegian culture for you!
Hiking up at Mount Floyen is as much of a cultural experience as it is a fun outdoor activity! Mostly, you’ll find locals out hiking and enjoying the sunshine, because as a whole, Norwegians are extremely active, nature-loving people.
12. Fjord Cruise to Mostraumen
They don’t call Bergen the “Gateway to the Norwegian Fjords” for nothing, do they?
Even after the Nutshell Tour, I had NOT had enough of Norway’s fjords. And my hunch is, you’ll feel the same. So what’s the obvious thing to do? Another fjord tour!
In my opinion, your trip to Bergen wouldn’t be complete without one.
So on Day 3, book yourself in for this Mostraumen Fjord Cruise.
This fjord cruise through the narrow Mostraumen straits and the dramatic Osterfjord to a beautiful waterfall is absolutely stunning! It’s also only 4 hours long, so you can easily fit some other Bergen experiences into your day.
The cruise operates year-round and leaves Bergen every day at 10 AM or 2:30 PM from the harbor in Bergen. It will sell out, so book in advance!
Click here to book your Mostaument Fjord Cruise now.
HOT TIP: I haven’t done this personally, but this private yacht cruise of the fjords would be amazing if you have a group of friends or family to split it with! Another quirky, budget-friendly option is this Viking Ship Fjord Experience; very few of these are still in use, so it’s a great nod to Norway’s Viking heritage.
13. Shop in Bergen’s “New City”
As an American, I feel like there’s nothing quite as cool as Scandinavian design. Do you agree?
On the weekends, shopping in the “new city” area of Bergen seems like the thing to do among locals. The streets in Bergen’s main shopping area are flooded with people streaming in and out of shops, chatting in the streets, listening to live music, and having a grand ol’ time.
You will discover many Scandinavian stores that you’ve never heard of – and a lot of really beautiful clothes and homewares. (Wallet, beware!)
Where to Eat & Drink in Bergen, Norway
Though it may not seem likely to you, Bergen is an international port city. And you know what that means! Bergen is filled with all kinds of tantalizing cuisines.
A great way to experience Bergen’s foodie culture is on this food tour. This Bergen Food and Culture Walk takes you through some of Bergen’s best culinary specialties, including spots within the fish market and Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf.
Here are my top picks for places to eat and drink during your three days in Bergen!
Coffee & Breakfast
- Blom: A must for amazing coffee while visiting Bergen! Super cute, cozy, great pastries, and obvious care for crafting a fabulous cuppa.
- Kaffemisjonen: Known as the best cafรฉ in Bergen, and for good reason! The coffee and food are top-notch.
- Det Lille Kaffe Kompaniet: Really good coffee, amazing cakes, and situated next to the funicular entrance. (Perfect right before a morning nature walk!)
- BOD 24 SANDVIKEN: A hidden gem outside of the typical tourist zones. You can’t beat the ocean views!
Restaurants
- Daily Pot: Soup is my favorite thing ever. If you’re with me, go to Daily Pot. There, you’ll find delicious soups (perfect for a rainy day lunch!), hearty salad bowls, and sandwiches!
- Bryggen Tracteursted: Located in the Bryggen harbor district, this traditional Norwegian restaurant serves classics like reindeer, locally caught salmon, and traditional Bergen sausage.
- Marg & Bein: This restaurant is all about sustainability and showcasing local Norwegian ingredients – from the fjords and farms, to the table. Book in for dinner and you won’t be disappointed!
- Amici Mei: A cozy, warm atmosphere, great for wine and some pasta. Possibly some of the most authentic Italian food you’ll find in Norway. A gem.
- MOON: MOON is the dream restaurant of two French brothers who fell in love with Norway and Norwegian ingredients. Beautiful, imaginative, yummy food.
- Savanna Restaurant: Like eating with your hands? After something a bit different? Why not try out traditional Ethiopian & Eritrean food in a colorful setting?
- Lysverket: Set in an art museum, this one-Michelin-star restaurant showcases Norway’s freshest and tastiest produce across 10 spectacular courses.
- Cornelius Seafood Restaurant: Regarded as one of Norway’s best (and most idyllic) fjord-to-table seafood restaurants, Cornelius Sjรธmatrestaurant is a must during your 3 days in Bergen! To get to the restaurant, you’ll take a scenic 25-minute boat ride to a nearby island, and then relax into amazing views of the fjords, wine, and seafood for the rest of the evening!
Bars
From cocktail bars to craft beer taprooms, these are the best places to drink in Bergen. Why not hop from one to the next? Especially if it’s raining!
Wet Weather Activities in Bergen
Situated on the water, between seven different mountains, Bergen is known for its wet weather!
Hopefully, you’ll get lucky during your three days in Bergen, but I’ve included some quick recommendations for indoor activities if it’s rainy (or if you have some free time) during your stay.
- Troldhaugen Edvard Grieg Museum
- Bergen Aquarium
- KODE Art Museums of Bergen
- Shopping downtown
- Bar hopping
- Cornelius Seafood Restaurant
How to Get to Bergen
Now that we’ve covered the best things to do in Bergen, let’s talk logistics. What’s the best way to get to Bergen, you ask?
Via the Norway in a Nutshell Tour
After spending 2 days in Oslo, I opted to travel to Bergen via the Norway in a Nutshell Tour, and it was the most amazing journey!
Highlights of the trip include riding the historic Flรฅm Railway (one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys), the stunning Bergen Railway route, and cruising through the dramatic Nรฆrรธyfjorden and Aurlandsfjorden by boat.
Yes, the Norway in a Nutshell Tour is pricey. (Ha, what isn’t in Norway?) But where else will you see such incredible views?
Truth be told, you can book all of the different legs of the journey yourself and save a bit of cash. But it is a lot easier to just book your Norway in a Nutshell Tour from Oslo to Bergen here.
I can’t recommend booking the Norway in a Nutshell trip enough. It was one of the best things I did on my entire Scandinavian trip!
Via High-Speed Train
If you want a no-fuss, 6.5-hour train journey from Oslo to Bergen, then simply take the Bergen Line (Bergensbanen).
The train journey is still incredibly scenic and claims the title of Northern Europeโs highest railway line – climbing to 1,222 meters above sea level at the Finse train station. You will arrive at the train station in Bergen Sentrum. From there, you can walk to your hotel (it’s 13 minutes to Clarion Hotel Admiral) or take a taxi.
Via Plane
Flying to Bergen? Bergen Flesland Airport (BGO) is a well-connected international airport with direct flights from major cities throughout Europe.
Once you arrive at the Bergen airport, getting to the city center is quick and easy. You have two great transport options to choose from:
- The Bergen Light Rail (Bybanen) train takes 45 minutes and drops you off at the Bergen city center station. If you buy the Bergen Card, the Light Rail.
- The Flybussen bus takes 30 minutes to reach the center and has many convenient and central stops, including Bryggen.
What to Pack for Bergen
- Rain jacket: Bergen is the rainiest city in all of Europe! Don’t go without a rain jacket!
- Wool coat: During the colder months, a beautiful wool coat is essential for style and practicality. You will fit in with the locals with this one. In the mountains, a more practical hiking jacket will be better.
- Comfortable boots: As expected, you’ll walk a lot in Bergen, so opt for a comfortable but stylish boot that you’ve worn in. You can’t go wrong with smart Chelsea boots, like these.
- Hiking boots: Planning to hike? These hiking boots are my favorite – I bring them everywhere!
- Daypack: Make sure you are prepared with essentials when snowshoeing and hiking, a decent backpack will be needed for your water bottle, snacks, and extra layers. This one is great and the perfect size for a day hike.
- Beanie and gloves: It’s generally cold in Bergen; prepare with a warm hat and gloves!
- Sunscreen: Nothing spoils your trip (and your photos!) more than sunburn – and snow glare is no joke. Protect yourself with good, natural sunscreen.
- Reusable water bottle: Remember to keep hydrated during your adventures; it can’t all be wine and coffee all the time! Bring a reusable water bottle – especially while hiking and snowshoeing.
- Universal travel adapter: Visiting from outside of Europe? Make sure to bring a universal travel adapter to charge your phone, camera, laptop, etc.!
- Travel insurance: As with any trip, you should ALWAYS purchase travel insurance in case anything goes wrong. I’ve had my fair share of travel mishaps!
3 Days in Bergen, Norway: Ultimate Bergen Itinerary
With some of the friendliest locals on the planet, outdoor activities galore, beautiful fjords, fabulous restaurants, fun bars, fascinating museums, and old, colorful buildings to marvel at, Bergen stole a little piece of my heart. I know you’ll feel the same!
With my 3-day Bergen itinerary and guide, you’re ready to visit Bergen and have the most action-packed and unforgettable time.
From fjord cruising and kayaking around the peninsula, to eating the freshest seafood, going on a foodie tour, hiking the Vidden trail, and exploring the beautiful city center of Bergen, you’re sure to have the most incredible 3 days in Bergen!
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Bergen, Norway FAQS
You need 3 days to explore the best that Bergen, Norway has to offer! In three days, you’ll have enough time for hiking, exploring the fjords, seeing the historic sites (like the fish market, wharf, and fortress), checking out some of the best museums, and enjoying the delicious restaurants – all without feeling rushed. Of course, if you have more time, you can always add on additional activities and take some day trips to more of the surrounding areas!
The best month to visit Bergen depends on what you want to do while you’re in the city. If youโre into warm-weather outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking, visit between May and September.
June, July, and August offer the โwarmestโ weather (with averages of roughly 60ยฐF – so, still, not very warm!), but these months are also the busiest and most expensive.
I visited in late April and it was a little chilly, and there was still a bit of snow in the mountains, but not enough to deter me from hiking.
If you’re interested in snow sports, like ski touring, then, of course, visit during the winter months. Otherwise, I’d avoid Bergen between October through March, as the days are generally short, dark, wet, and cold!
No matter when you visit, be prepared for rain. Bergen is the rainiest city in Europe! It rains more than 200 days a year, so even in summer, you should pack a rain jacket and some boots!
October, November, and December are the wettest months, while April, May, June, and July are the driest months.
Of course, Bergen is worth visiting. A trip to Norway would not be complete without spending 3 days in Bergen. Bergen is an incredibly charming and picturesque city with so much to offer! From its stunning natural scenery, amazing hiking, and easy access to the fjords, to its delicious restaurants, vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and fascinating historical sites, there’s something for everyone in Bergen.
Highlights include cruising the fjords, hiking through the steep mountains, exploring Bryggen on foot, eating fresh seafood, and kayaking around nearby islands!
3 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Bergen. 3 days gives you enough time to get a taste of everything this beautiful city has to offer! If you’re not into outdoor activities, like hiking or kayaking, I think 2 days would be sufficient. On the other side of the spectrum, if you can’t wait to get out into Bergen’s surrounding fjords and mountains, you might like to stay longer than 3 days. Generally speaking, though, three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Bergen.
Yes, Bergen is very walkable! While it’s surrounded by mountains, Bergen downtown is flat. I enjoyed walking around the center and exploring all of the different neighborhoods. If you book a hotel in the Sentrum, Bergenhus, or Bryggen areas, all of the main points of interest will be within short walking distance.
No, you do not need a car in Bergen. The public transportation system is excellent and getting around by bus, taxi, or on foot is very easy. Traveling from the airport, train station, and bus station is also easy; I’ve detailed the best transportation options to the city center above. Plus, if you book a central hotel near downtown and Bryggen, most everything will be within a 15-minute walk
When you visit Norway, you’ll find that it’s generally more expensive than most other countries! And Bergen is no exception.
While Bergen is expensive, there are ways that you can cut down costs. Between the city tourism board’s discount card, booking mid-range accommodation, and enjoying free activities (like hiking and other outdoor activities), you can easily visit Bergen without blowing your budget! Read this guide for everything you need to know!
I found Bergen to be cheaper than Oslo, but not by a lot. Generally speaking, both cities are expensive – but no doubt, both cities are 100% worth visiting, and there are ways to make your trip affordable! My guide for 2 Days in Oslo details the best (and free) things to do in Oslo, while my 3-Day Bergen Itinerary above offers activities for every budget!
Maddy’s Avenue spent three days in Bergen, Norway as a guest of both the Visit Bergen tourism board and the Clarion Hotel Admiral. As always, all opinions are our own. Thank you for your support.
Over to you! Have you spent 3 days in Bergen, Norway before? What did you think of it? If not, are you planning to visit Norway? Is Bergen on your bucket list?
Thanks for all the information it will come in handy and looking forward to our trip.