This itinerary will guide you through 2 perfect days in Bergen, plus an optional third day if you want to explore a bit further.
Nestled between snow-dusted mountains and the sea, Norway’s second-largest city is just the right size for a short trip, with colourful wooden houses, rich history, bold street art, and unforgettable views from above.
I visited Bergen in early March and couldn’t have timed it better. The weather was crisp and clear, the mountains were covered in fresh snow, and the views over the harbour (Vågen) were stunning from my hotel room at Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz.
Also read: Oslo Weekend Itinerary | 2 Days In Norway’s Capital
Best Time to Visit Bergen
Bergen is famously rainy as it gets over 200 days of rain a year. But don’t let that put you off. The city’s vibe shines through in any season.
- Spring (April–May) brings blooming parks and fewer tourists.
- Summer (June–August) offers the warmest weather, long days, and fjord cruises in full swing.
- Autumn (September–October) is colourful and quieter, with crisp air and cosy cafés.
- Winter (November–March) means snow on the mountains and fewer crowds, plus a peaceful, moody atmosphere.
I visited in early March and was lucky with crisp, clear skies and snowy views from Mount Fløyen and Ulriken. Just keep in mind that daylight hours are shorter in winter, so plan your outdoor activities earlier in the day.
How Many Days Is Enough To See Bergen
When you’re planning your trip to Bergen you are probably wondering how many days you need. With the Bergen itinerary in this article I got you covered with all of the best things to see and do, but to answer the question…
You can see the best of Bergen in 2 full days, especially if you’re focusing on the city itself, from Mount Fløyen and Bryggen to the KODE museums and Mount Ulriken.
If you have a third day, use it to go beyond the city and explore the fjords, whether that’s a scenic train ride to Flåm or a guided tour to Nærøyfjord and the Stegastein lookout.
With 2–3 days, you’ll get a great feel for Bergen’s atmosphere, culture, and natural surroundings, without feeling rushed.
The Perfect Weekend In Bergen Itinerary
Bergen is compact, walkable, and full of atmosphere, even more so when the mountains are sprinkled with snow. This 2-day Bergen itinerary includes the best things to do in the city itself, plus an optional third day for those who want to explore the fjords or head further into the mountains.
Bergen Itinerary Day 1 | Mount Fløyen, Bryggen & Bergen’s Old Streets
The first day of your Bergen itinerary is all about soaking up views from above, wandering through historic streets, and discovering the city’s creative side, from snowy mountain trails to colourful wooden houses and hidden murals.
Arrival and Views from Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz
I arrived in Bergen mid-morning and checked into Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz, right by the historic harbour. The room was modern and comfortable, but what really stood out were the views over Vågen. A great way to start to my weekend in Bergen.
If you’re arriving around the same time, drop your bags, freshen up, and head out — Bergen is easy to explore on foot, and the weather might just surprise you (in my case, blue skies in early March!).
Fløibanen Funicular and Mount Fløyen Walks
With the skies still clear, I headed straight to Mount Fløyen, one of Bergen’s most famous viewpoints. The Fløibanen funicular departs from the city centre and takes you to the top in just a few minutes.
Once at the top, I spent about 1.5 hours walking through the forest trails. The paths were peaceful, the snow deep but walkable, and the views back over Bergen and the fjords were unforgettable.
Even though Bergen already had a fresh layer of snow, up on the mountain it felt like a winter wonderland. If you’re visiting in winter or early spring, this is one of the most magical parts of the trip.
Tip: You can also hike back down if the trails aren’t too icy, but the round-trip funicular ticket is great value and saves time.
Lunch in the City Centre | Kaffemisjonen or Colonialen Fetevaren
Back in the city after your walk on Mount Fløyen, it’s a good time to refuel before continuing your day. For lunch, head toward the city centre and try one of these two favourites:
- Kaffemisjonen | A top spot for coffee lovers, this café serves expertly brewed filter and espresso-based drinks, along with light bites. The vibe is relaxed and local — a great place to warm up after your mountain walk.
- Colonialen Fetevaren | If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, this deli-style eatery offers quality charcuterie, sandwiches, soups, and daily specials made with local ingredients. You can eat in or grab something to go.
Both are located just a short walk from Bryggen, so you’ll be perfectly placed to dive into the city’s historic centre after lunch.
Tip: For a little more context at the start of your weekend in Bergen, join this 2-hour guided tour through Bryggen and the harbour area.
Bergenhus Fortress and Bryggen Wharf
After lunch, walk over to Bergenhus Fortress, one of Norway’s oldest and best-preserved fortifications.
The grounds are free to explore, and while the museum might be closed in winter, the site itself with its old stone buildings and views across the harbour is worth a visit year-round. King Haakon’s Hall does charge an entrance fee though.
Just beyond the fortress is Bryggen, Bergen’s most iconic area. The UNESCO-listed row of wooden Hanseatic houses is just as beautiful in person as it looks in photos.
I took my time walking through the narrow alleys between the buildings, where you’ll find small galleries, artisan workshops, and wooden beams that creak with history.
Exploring the Harbour Area and Bergen’s Street Art
From Bryggen, walk further along the harbour and into the surrounding streets. This part of Bergen is full of steep alleyways, colourful wooden houses, and small surprises, like bold graffiti murals tucked away in side streets.
One of my favourite things about Bergen is how these artistic touches contrast so well with the old timber buildings. Keep an eye out around areas like Skostredet and Kong Oscars gate, where street art meets vintage shops, cafés, and quiet residential corners.
Dinner Options in the City Centre
After a full day of walking, I was ready for something warm and comforting. Bergen has a solid food scene, especially if you’re into local seafood or Nordic-inspired menus. A few dinner options to consider:
- Bryggeloftet | A Bergen classic, serving traditional Norwegian dishes in a cosy setting just steps from Bryggen.
- Allmuen Bistro | Friendly, unfussy, and creative. Great if you want something relaxed but still flavourful.
- Pingvinen | A favourite with locals, known for hearty home-style food and Bergen’s best meatballs.
After dinner, head back to your hotel or take an evening stroll along the waterfront. Even in winter, Bergen feels calm and atmospheric at night.
Bergen Itinerary Day 2 | Mount Ulriken, Museums & City Sights
On the second day of your weekend in Bergen, you’ll head even higher for panoramic fjord views, then return to the city for art, architecture, and cosy neighbourhoods. With plenty of cultural stops and scenic corners, it’s a slower but rewarding pace.
Hotel Breakfast and Bus to Mount Ulriken
One of the highlights of staying at Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz was the breakfast, just like in Oslo, it’s generous, high quality, and includes everything from pastries and eggs to Norwegian specialities like smoked fish and brunost. A perfect way to fuel up for the day ahead.
After breakfast, take bus 2, or the Ulriken Express Bus to Mount Ulriken, the highest of Bergen’s seven mountains. The Ulriken643 cable car whisks you to the top, where you’ll be greeted by truly panoramic views over the fjords, islands, and city below.
There was even more snow here than on Mount Fløyen. Even if you’re not planning a full hike, it’s worth walking around a bit to soak up the views. During summertime the snow is gone and it’s easier to walk around.
Tip: Get your cable car ticket right here, or on the cable car’s official website.
Gategalleriet | A Creative Stop Before the City
On the way back from Ulriken, I made a quick stop at Gategalleriet, a small, independent art gallery that focuses on urban and contemporary works. It’s compact but refreshingly different, and well worth a short visit if you’re interested in local creativity beyond the museums.
Tip: Gategalleriet often exhibits work by Norwegian street artists, a nice link to the murals you might’ve seen on Day 1 by M.u.M and AFK.
Lunch at Fjåk or Blom Coffee
Continue your weekend in Bergen by taking the bus back to the city. If you’re ready for a break, there are two great spots nearby:
- Fjåk | Located inside KODE 1, this cosy café serves excellent open sandwiches, soups, and fresh cakes in a relaxed, Nordic-inspired space.
- Blom Coffee | A short walk away, Blom is one of Bergen’s best coffee bars. Think third-wave coffee, good vibes, and minimal design. Great for a light lunch or fika-style pause.
Bergen Sentrum, Engen and the KODE Museums
After lunch, explore Sentrum and Engen, two neighbourhoods with a mix of cultural spots and classic Bergen charm. My main stop here was the KODE art museums, a group of buildings along the Lille Lungegårdsvannet lake.
Inside, you’ll find everything from historical Norwegian paintings to Munch, Picasso, and international contemporary works.
KODE is split across four buildings. If you’re short on time, start with KODE 3 (Rasmus Meyer building) for the classic Norwegian art, or KODE 1 for temporary exhibitions and design. There’s a further 3 buildings (composer’s homes) outside of the city.
Tip: A single ticket gives you access to all buildings and is valid for one day.
A Visit to St John’s Church
From there, I made the short climb up to St John’s Church (Johanneskirken), with its red brick tower and wide steps. The church overlooks the lake and museum area and offers a peaceful pause in a leafy corner of the city.
Even if you don’t go inside, it’s a beautiful building and another reason to wander a little beyond the main streets.
More Things to Do in Bergen if You Have Time
If you’re not in a rush, spend some time wandering the streets south of the museum area. You’ll find small shops, cafés, and photo spots at every turn.
Go out for Dinner and Drinks
For dinner, you’ll find plenty of options in Sentrum or near the harbour. Here are a few favourites:
- Colonialen Litteraturhuset | Contemporary dishes and a beautiful location inside the Literature House.
- Spisekroken | Cosy, local, and loved by Bergenites. The menu changes with the seasons.
- Restaurant 1877 | Refined Norwegian cooking in an atmospheric setting near the fish market.
If you’re heading out for drinks afterwards, two great options are:
- Last Monkey | Small, stylish, and known for inventive drinks and quality ingredients.
- No Stress | A laid-back bar with a strong cocktail list and playful atmosphere.
Bergen Itinerary Day 3 | A Day Trip to Flåm and the Fjords
If you have a third day for your weekend in Bergen, use it to head deeper into the Norwegian landscape. One of the most rewarding day trips from Bergen is a visit to Flåm, a small village nestled at the end of the Aurlandsfjord.
Whether you explore independently or join a guided tour, this day is all about dramatic scenery, winding train routes, waterfalls, and unforgettable fjord views.
Self-Guided Option: Flåm by Train
The classic way to reach Flåm is to take the scenic train from Bergen to Myrdal, then transfer to the famous Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana), one of the steepest and most beautiful railway journeys in the world. It’s a highlight in itself, twisting through tunnels, alongside waterfalls, and down to sea level.
Once in Flåm, you’ll have a few hours to walk around the fjord, grab lunch, and enjoy the views before heading back the same way. It’s easy to do on your own, just book your train tickets in advance through Vy (Norwegian Railways).
Round-trip time: about 6–7 hours total. Bring snacks and dress warmly, as it can be colder inland.
Guided Bus Tour Option: Nærøyfjord Cruise, Stegastein & Waterfalls
If you’d rather not plan the logistics yourself, and don’t need the train ride, then a great alternative is to book a guided day tour that includes more stops and a bit of variety. These usually include:
- Scenic drive through the mountains
- A stop at Tvindefossen waterfall
- A fjord cruise on Nærøyfjord, one of the narrowest and most spectacular arms of the Sognefjord (UNESCO-listed)
- The Stegastein Lookout, a jaw-dropping viewpoint suspended high above the Aurlandsfjord
- Free time in Flåm before returning to Bergen in the evening
It’s a full day, but a very rewarding one. And ideal if you want to see fjords, waterfalls, and viewpoints all in a single trip. You can book this tour to see all these highlights and more.
What to Expect & How to Book
- The self-guided train option gives you more freedom and works well if you love slow travel and don’t mind organising your day. Expect to pay around €125-€150 for the return trip from Bergen. Book your train on vy.no.
- The guided bus tour lets you relax, covers more ground, and makes sure you hit multiple highlights without stress.
- If you want to go on a full day tour, but include the Flåm Railway and miss out on Tvindevossen, you can also book this option.
Tip: Check the weather forecast before booking — even if it’s rainy in Bergen, the fjords often have their own microclimate.
Weekend In Bergen Itinerary Map
To help you plan your weekend in Bergen, here’s a map with all the places mentioned in this itinerary, including viewpoints, museums, restaurants, and day trip locations.
You can open it on your phone to use as a reference while walking around the city, or save it to your Google account for later.
Where to Stay in Bergen
The city is compact, so anywhere near Bryggen or the station puts you within walking distance of most sights you want to see on your weekend in Bergen.
Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz
I stayed at Thon Hotel Rosenkrantz, located just behind Bryggen and minutes from the Fløibanen funicular.
The rooms were modern and comfortable, but the best part was the incredible view over the harbour. The breakfast here was also excellent, one of the best I’ve had in Norway.
Other Great Places to Stay in Bergen
- Hotel Norge by Scandic | A sleek, central option with spa access and stylish design.
- Opus XVI | A luxury boutique hotel set in a historic bank building. Owned by relatives of Edvard Grieg.
- Bergen Børs Hotel | Modern, elegant, and right in the heart of the city.
- Heimen Hotel | A charming, more affordable stay with a great location near the harbour.
Getting to and Around Bergen
How to Get to Bergen
By Air | Most visitors arrive via Bergen Airport (BGO), located about 30 minutes from the city centre. From the airport, you can get into town by:
- Airport Light Rail (Bybanen) | Affordable and scenic, this tram-like service connects the airport to the city centre in about 45 minutes.
- Airport Bus (Flybussen) | Slightly faster, with multiple stops in central Bergen.
- Taxi or rideshare | More expensive, but convenient if you’re carrying luggage or arriving late.
By Train | The Bergen Railway (Bergensbanen) is one of Europe’s most scenic train routes, connecting Bergen and Oslo in about 6.5–7 hours. It’s a journey worth doing at least once, especially in daylight.
By Ferry | Fjord Line and Hurtigruten cruises both stop in Bergen. If you’re arriving from Stavanger, Ålesund, or further along the coast, you can get here by sea.
How to Get Around Bergen
Bergen is very walkable, and most sights in this Bergen weekend itinerary are easily reached on foot. But for some spots (like Mount Ulriken or the airport), public transport is helpful:
- Light Rail (Bybanen) | Runs between the city centre and outer suburbs, including the airport.
- Local buses | Connect to areas like the Ulriken cable car and other nearby suburbs. Use the Skyss app to plan routes and buy tickets.
- Taxis and rideshares | Available, but more expensive than public transport.
Tip: If you’re visiting Bergen and follow the itinerary in this article, then consider getting a Bergen Card because you will save some money, as it includes free or discounted entry to museums and attractions, and use of public transport.
Final Thoughts on This Bergen Itinerary
Bergen is one of those cities that quietly wins you over. With its dramatic mountain views, cosy streets, and rich mix of history and creativity, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.
Two days was the perfect amount of time to explore the highlights. But if you have a third day, a trip out to the fjords only adds to the experience of your Bergen weekend.
Have a question about planning your Bergen itinerary? Leave a comment below or reach out on Instagram. I’m always happy to help fellow travellers.
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