In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with an itinerary for spending 2 days in Bergen. We’ll cover the best attractions, activities, and restaurants in the city. You’ll also get tips on where to stay and how to get around. So grab your backpack and get ready to explore one of Norway’s most beautiful cities!
Introduction to Bergen
Bergen is a unique city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you enjoy the outdoors, or love hanging out in the city, there’s plenty to do and see.
The city will welcome you with its cobblestone roads and tiny alleyways filled with traditional wooden houses. You’ll be surrounded by the Norwegian mountains, and based around the water – make it easy to navigate.
In our 2 days in Bergen itinerary, you’ll get some specific suggestions on how to use your time in the city, but we’d definitely recommend wondering around and seeing where you end up. Be warned though – the street signs are not always easy to follow, so make sure you have internet connection for Google Maps or do it the old fashioned way and take a paper map.
The best time to visit Bergen is from May to September, when the weather is mild and there’s plenty of daylight hours.
How To Get To Bergen
The easiest way to reach Bergen is by flight. Bergen Airport Flesland Airport is only 17km from the city center, and there are many bus lines from the airport to the center. The journey only takes around half an hour.
You could also get to Bergen by train – the train between Bergen and Oslo is one of the most beautiful journeys in the world. It leaves from Oslo several times a day, and takes around 8 hours.
Another option is to reach Bergen by ferry. YOu can get here from Hirtshals in Denmark.
Where to Stay For 2 Days in Bergen
With only 2 days in Bergen, it’s important you choose accommodation that’s well located. You’ll want to be close to the city center so you can easily get around. Bergen has many accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.
Scandic Ørnen
Scandic Ørnen is a modern, stylish hotel located in the heart of Bergen. With its central location, guests have easy access to the city’s main attractions. This is including the Bergenhus Fortress, Bryggen Wharf, and Mount Fløyen. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a fitness center, and a restaurant and bar. The rooftop terrace has stunning views of the city.
Clarion Hotel Admiral
The Clarion Hotel Admiral is a stylish waterfront hotel located in the heart of Bergen’s historic Bryggen Wharf district. The hotel has contemporary rooms with stunning views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. Enjoy delicious Norwegian food at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, or relax at the bar.
Moxy Bergen
If you’re on a budget, this hotel offers affordable rooms in a central location. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from Bryggen and the Fish Market.
Areas to Visit In Bergen
Bergen has several neighborhoods worth exploring, each with its own unique charm. Here are a few areas to consider visiting during your 2 days in Bergen:
Bryggen: This historic neighborhood is home to the famous wharf and colorful wooden buildings.
Nordnes: This neighborhood is located on a peninsula just south of the city center. It features parks, beaches, and great views of the harbor.
Fjellveien: This scenic road offers panoramic views of Bergen and the surrounding fjords.
How to Get Around Bergen
Bergen is a compact city that is easy to navigate on foot. However, if you need to travel further, there are several transportation options available:
- By bus: Bergen has a comprehensive bus network that covers most of the city. You can purchase tickets at bus stops or on board the bus.
- By bike: Bergen has several bike rental companies, and there are bike lanes throughout the city.
- By taxi: Taxis are readily available in Bergen, and most drivers speak English.
Where to Eat in Bergen
Bergen is known for its seafood, so be sure to try some of the local specialties.
- Enhjørningen Seafood Restaurant: This restaurant is located on the historic wharf and offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes.
- Lysverket: This restaurant is located in a former power station and features a modern, Nordic-inspired menu.
- Pingvinen: This cozy pub serves traditional Norwegian fare, including meatballs, fish soup, and waffles with sour cream and jam.
What To See in Bergen In 2 Days
As the second largest city in Norway, there’s a lot you can do in Bergen. Here are our recommendations, many of which are featured in our 2 day itinerary:
- Visit Bryggen, the colourful Hanseatic wharf created in the 14th century
- Take the Fløibanen funicular to the Fløyen mountain
- Visit Bergen fish market
- Visit the Bergen Aquarium, home to over 50 different tanks
- Visit KODE, an extensive museum for art and design that spans across several buildings
- Take a fjord cruise
- Visit the Hanseatic Museum
2 Days in Bergen Itinerary
If you only have 2 days to spend in Bergen, you might be concerned about how to see everything. There is a lot of things you can do in the city, but we recommend starting with the most important sights and then filling in the schedule to include things that suit your specific interests.
Day 1 – Exploring the Bergen city center
You’ll be spending your first day in Bergen’s city center. Do this on foot, as it’s a walkable city and safe.
Start your day with a visit to the famous Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll around the narrow alleys and colorful wooden buildings while taking in the history of this Hanseatic trading post. The area is home to many cafes, shops, and galleries, so take your time to explore and soak in the atmosphere. You’ll get to see the most famous view of Bergen here, so remember to take some snaps!
Hanseatic Museum
Next, visit the Hanseatic Museum, located in one of the old wooden buildings along the wharf. The museum gives an insight into the history and daily life of Hanseatic merchants who lived in Bergen during the Middle Ages. You can even visit a reconstructed merchant’s house and experience what life was like in those times.
Fløibanen funicular
Take the Fløibanen funicular to the top of Mount Fløyen. This is a mountain that overlooks Bergen. You’ll get stunning panoramic views of Bergen and the surrounding fjords. The funicular ride takes only 8 minutes and is an experience in itself. Once you reach the top, you can hike, bike, relax and enjoy the scenery. There are restaurants and cafes at the top to enjoy.
There are several hiking trails in the area too. These range from easy to challenging – choose the one that suits your preference and fitness level.
Lunch at a traditional restaurant
For lunch, head to Fløien Folkerestaurant. They offer traditional Norwegian cuisine and panoramic views of Bergen. The restaurant is located at the top of the funicular, so it’s a convenient and scenic place to take a break and refuel.
Bergen Fish Market
Next, visit the Fish Market, located in the heart of the city. Here you can enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties. We recommend trying traditional Norwegian dishes such as smoked salmon, fish soup, and fish cakes. The market is a lively and bustling place, so it’s a great place to people-watch and soak in the atmosphere.
End Your Day
After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront at sunset. Enjoy the beautiful views of the harbor and mountains. The area around the Fish Market is especially scenic, with colorful houses and boats lining the harbor.
Day 2
Bergenhus Fortress
Start your day with a visit to the Bergenhus Fortress. This is a medieval fortress and castle which dates back to the 13th century. It’s located on the harbor and is one of Bergen’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the various buildings and structures within the fortress, including the Rosenkrantz Tower, the Håkon’s Hall, and the medieval stone cellar.
Go on a tour of the fjords
In the afternoon, take a boat tour of the fjords surrounding Bergen. You’ll need to book this in advance so you have a good range of tours to choose from. If you wait until you arrive to book the tour, there’s a good chance it will be sold out. These tours offer breathtaking views of the majestic fjords and provide an opportunity to spot wildlife such as seals and eagles. There are several tour operators in Bergen that offer fjord cruises, ranging from a few hours to a full day. Choose a tour that suits your preferences and schedule.
Explore the local bar scene
For your last evening in Bergen, head to one of the local bars or pubs in the city center, such as the legendary Hulen. Located in a former bomb shelter, this unique venue offers live music and a quirky, bohemian atmosphere.
If you’re interested in seafood, you can also try one of the many seafood restaurants in the city, such as Cornelius Seafood Restaurant. This restaurant is located on a nearby island accessible by boat! Itt offers an unforgettable dining experience with stunning views of the fjords.
After dinner, take a final stroll through the city center, taking in the sights and sounds of this charming coastal town.
How to make the most of your 2 days in Bergen
Planning for your time in Bergen might be overwhelming with so many activities to fit in. Here’s some suggestions to help you make the most of your time.
Get a Bergen Card
If you want to fit in as much as possible during your 2 days in Bergen, you might want to get a 24-hour or 48-hour Bergen Card. This gives you free or discounted admission to a lot of local museums and attractions, as well as free bus and rail travel.
Go on a guided tour
Make sure you’re seeing the best of the city with a tour from an expert guide.
Is 2 Days in Bergen enough?
Two days in Bergen is enough time to see the main attractions in the city. This includes the popular Bryggen Wharf and Mount Fløyen funicular. You’d also have time to see some museums, go to the fish market and take a boat tour of the fjords.
Bergen is a charming and historic city that is well worth a visit. Filled with stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and a vibrant atmosphere, it offers something for everyone.
With this 2 days in Bergen itinerary, you can experience the best of what Bergen has to offer in a short amount of time. From strolling through the narrow alleys of the Bryggen Wharf to taking in the panoramic views from Mount Fløyen, you’ll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful city on the edge of the fjords!
