Welcome to Bergen, the Gateway to the Fjords!
Bergen, Norway is a city bursting with charm, history, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re marveling at the colorful wooden buildings of Bryggen, exploring the heights of Mount Fløyen, or savoring fresh seafood at the iconic Fish Market, Bergen offers something magical for every traveler. With three days in this vibrant city, you’ll have just enough time to experience its highlights, uncover hidden gems, and fall in love with its unique blend of history and nature.
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ToggleDay One of Three Days in Bergen
Your first day in Bergen is best spent getting acquainted with the city, the culture, and soaking up the jaw-dropping landscape. Of course, enjoying the local cuisine and a little shopping is on the list as well!
Walk around the Bergen Harbor
The Bergen Harbor is a must-visit spot during your three days in this charming city! Located near the city center, it’s a picturesque area filled with colorful boats bobbing in the water, backed by views of Bergen’s seven mountains and the charming old wharf. Stroll along the marina to soak up the coastal vibes, or relax at one of the waterfront cafes and restaurants serving fresh, local flavors with unbeatable views.
The harbor is a fantastic place to soak in the maritime culture, enjoy people-watching, and snap some postcard-worthy photos. Conveniently close to attractions like Bryggen, the historic UNESCO-listed wharf, the marina makes for a perfect stop on your Bergen adventure. It’s also a hub for boat tours, offering a chance to explore the breathtaking fjords.
If you’re there in the evening, the golden hour lighting over the water is breathtaking!

Kick back and have a drink on Kong Oscars gate
Kong Oscars gate (King Oscars Street), one of Bergen’s oldest streets, is a charming and historic gem that quickly became my favorite part of our 3 days in Bergen. Named in 1857 after King Oscar I of Norway and Sweden, this narrow, one-way road is lined with significant and historic buildings. A visit to this street offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience, with shops and restaurants that exude personal style and local charm. Away from chain stores and tourist hotspots, this part of town invites you to explore Bergen’s quieter, more intimate side, rich in history and character.
Enjoy dinner at the Bergen Fish Market
Nestled in the heart of Bergen and the harbor, the picturesque Fish Market is a must-visit destination in Norway! This lively market has been a hub of activity since the 1200’s, serving as a meeting spot for fishermen, farmers, and locals alike. Today, it’s a treasure trove of fresh fish, seafood, and local farm produce like vibrant fruit, berries, and vegetables. Hungry? You’re in luck—several restaurants at the market offer mouthwatering seafood dishes.
While the indoor Fish Market is open year-round, the outdoor market comes alive every summer. Imagine the historic charm of fishermen once rowing into the harbor to sell their daily catch—it’s a tradition that still echoes through the market’s vibrant atmosphere. Grab a delicious bite to eat and head back to your hotel- you have a full day tomorrow!

Day Two in Bergen
Days two and three can be swapped, pending weather. Out of our three days in Bergen in June, we had one chilly and rainy day and two days of full sunshine with bright blue skies. Plan your outings accordingly to get the most out of your experiences in Bergen!
Ride the Fløibanen Funicular to Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of the town
A visit to Mount Fløyen is a must when in Bergen! Take the Fløibanen funicular, a historic railway that’s been operating since 1918, for a quick six-minute ride from the city center to 320 meters above sea level. At the top, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the city, fjord, and surrounding mountains. Tickets are available online or at the station, and you can choose to walk back down through scenic trails or purchase a round-trip ride.
Once at Fløyen, there’s so much to enjoy! Explore the Troll Forest, stroll nature trails, or relax at the Fløistuen Café, where you can savor fresh pastries and drinks made with locally grown produce. Don’t miss the nearby lake Skomakerdiket for more stunning views and a taste of traditional Norwegian “svele.” With its incredible vistas, fun activities, and cozy cafes, Mount Fløyen is a must-see when spending 3 days in Bergen.

Explore the historic Bryggen Unesco Site
Walking through Bryggen provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich past as a key trading hub of the Hanseatic League from the 14th to the 16th century. Despite many devastating fires, including one in 1702 that reduced the city to ashes, Bryggen has been rebuilt on its original 12th-century foundations. Today, it preserves the charm of its iconic wooden structures, making it a rare relic of Northern Europe’s ancient wooden urban design and is one of Bergen’s most photographed spots.
The Hanseatic League was a medieval commercial and defensive network of merchant guilds and market towns in Central and Northern Europe.

With 62 preserved buildings, Bryggen is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the only remaining Hanseatic Office outside of Germany. Its vibrant history as a center for trade in stockfish and other goods has left an indelible mark, and walking its narrow alleys feels like stepping back in time.
If you have more time: Visit the Rosenkrantz Tower
The Rosenkrantz Tower is a historic landmark and one of Norway’s most important Renaissance-era buildings. Located near the harbor, the tower was originally built in the 1560s by Erik Rosenkrantz, the governor of Bergenhus, to serve as both a fortified residence and a stronghold. It combines elements of medieval architecture with Renaissance design, showcasing its dual purpose of defense and prestige.
Parts of the tower date back even earlier, to the 13th century. Visitors can explore its winding staircases, dungeons, and halls while learning about its role in Bergen’s military and political past. From the top of the tower, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the harbor, city, and surrounding mountains.

Have a Norwegian Dinner - You earned it!
With so many options to choose from for a hearty meal, you can’t go wrong when eating in the Bergen city center. One of our favorites of the trip was the Harbour Café, with delicious chowders and views of the harbor that can’t be beat. Restaurant 1877 has delicious pasta, shellfish, and fresh fish served via either a set menu (“Kitchen’s Choice”) or À la carte.

And if you just want a hot and fast meal to go, don’t miss a sausage from 3-Kroneren (Trekroneren). More than just a hot dog stand, Trekroneren (meaning “Three Crowns”) is a must-visit spot for food lovers looking for a tasty and authentic bite. A favorite among locals and tourists, the wide variety of sausages and dogs come with all sorts of toppings from crispy onions and mustard to creamy shrimp salad.
This place is so popular amongst tourists that the menu is written in three languages!

Day Three in Bergen
It’s your last day to explore this beautiful and historic city. Spend your last day in Bergen picking up gifts and souvenirs from the city, enjoying more of the local delicacies, and getting prepared to see more of what this absolutely stunning country has to offer.
Explore Torgallmenningen, Bergen's City Square
Torgallmenningen is the bustling heart of Bergen and one of the city’s most vibrant squares. Surrounded by shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks, it’s a lively gathering place for both locals and visitors. The square itself is spacious and pedestrian-friendly, often hosting events, street performances, and seasonal markets, adding to its dynamic atmosphere.
The area around Torgallmenningen is perfect for shopping, with a mix of international brands, department stores, and unique local boutiques. Nearby, you’ll find cozy cafes and restaurants where you can take a break and enjoy some Norwegian treats. Torgallmenningen is just a short walk from the Fish Market and Bryggen, making this an ideal point for exploring Bergen’s highlights with just a few days in the city.

Enjoy shopping and dining along Strandgaten
Strandgaten is one of Bergen’s busiest and most charming shopping streets, starting at Torgallmenningen and stretching along the Nordnes peninsula. This vibrant street is a mix of traditional charm and modern convenience, featuring small boutique shops, well-known chain stores, international retailers, and the historic Kløverhuset shopping center.

Have a luscious brunch
There are many options for a late breakfast or brunch while shopping along Strandgaten in Bergen. Plassen has a small but mouth-watering brunch menu filled with items including Croque Monsieur, gochujang pork and waffles, and salads topped with buttery chunks of fried goat cheese. Løvetann Café & Bistro was on our list to try but we ran out of time!
If you have more time: Cool off in an ice bar
If you come all the way to Norway and don’t go to an ice bar, did you really explore all there was to see? Magic Ice Bar has locations in Bergen, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Reykjavik, Iceland. The entire bar, the cups, the seats, the floor… everything is made of ice. And the sculptures in this ice-art gallery are inspired by famous works by Norwegian & international artists including Edvard Grieg.

It is freezing inside! Not to worry, the thick heavy coats and warm gloves are complimentary.
Take a train tour to your next destination in Norway
If you’re lucky enough to have more time to spend in Norway, there are several places worth visiting after spending three days in Bergen. The easiest destination is to take the Bergensbanen, the Bergen railway, north towards Flåm. Known as the most beautiful train ride in Norway for a reason, taking a trip on the Bergen train is one of those bucket-list adventures that is hard to beat.
More info is coming soon about the train ride from Bergen to Flåm, and the fjord cruise back!

Three days in Bergen is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the city. The cobblestone streets, warm and welcoming atmosphere, and panoramic views will leave you with incredible memories but also a deep appreciation for Norway’s captivating beauty.
Happy Travels!

