Morning light spills across Bergen’s harbor, glinting off rows of colorful wooden buildings that have watched ships come and go for centuries. Framed by seven mountains and freshened by sea air, the city feels both timeless and alive with a blend of history, culture and coastal beauty. Here’s how to experience the best of Bergen in just 48 hours.
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I spent time in Bergen at the end of September after a week-long cruise of the fjords aboard Hurtigruten’s Trollfjord, and found it to be a city that captures Norwegian charm in every direction. With cobblestone streets, rich history and a vibe that’s both European cosmopolitan and coastal city, it’s easy to see why travelers linger here.
When I’m in town, I stay at Opus XVI, a boutique hotel in a former bank owned by descendants of composer Edvard Grieg. Their famous breakfast, part buffet, part a la carte indulgence, sets the tone for days filled with walking, sightseeing and soaking up some of the best views on Norway’s west coast.
Day 1: Mountainside views and harbor heritage
Morning
Start early at the Bergen Tourist Information Center, located above the Fish Market, and pick up a Bergen Card for discounted entry to museums, attractions and public transit. Then make your way to the Floibanen Funicular, which glides to the top of Mount Floyen in under 10 minutes. Go in the morning; it’s one of Bergen’s most popular attractions, and the line grows quickly by the afternoon.
At the summit, take in panoramic views stretching from the city’s colorful rooftops to the fjords beyond. Stay for lunch at Floirestauranten, where chefs serve seasonal Norwegian ingredients alongside some of the best views in town. Afterward, take a short forest walk to the pond and gentle waterfalls or relax on the terrace before heading back down to the city center.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring Bryggen, the UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves Bergen’s Hanseatic trading history. Wander its narrow wooden lanes, peek into artisan shops and visit the Bryggen Museum to see how the city rebuilt after centuries of trade and fire. On your way, stop at Trekroneren, Bergen’s most famous hot dog stand, for a reindeer sausage, a local favorite that’s a must-try.
Evening
For dinner, head back to the harbor and settle in at Fish Me, located inside the Fish Market. The menu boasts freshly caught seafood and local specialties in a relaxed, waterside setting. As the sun dips behind the mountains, stroll along Vagen Harbor, where reflections from Bryggen’s colorful facades shimmer across the water.
Day 2: Art, coffee and coastal calm
Morning
After another indulgent breakfast at Opus XVI, begin the day with a visit to the KODE Art Museums, a collection of four buildings showcasing everything from Edvard Munch’s haunting works to contemporary Scandinavian design. Then head to Bergenhus Fortress, one of Norway’s oldest fortifications. Dating back to the 13th century, its stone walls have stood watch over the harbor through wars, fires and centuries of trade. Take a quiet walk through the grounds for a glimpse into the city’s storied past.
Afternoon
Take a break for coffee and pastries at Kaffemisjonen or Det Lille Kaffekompaniet, both local favorites renowned for their rich brews and cozy atmosphere. From there, explore the city at your own pace, perhaps with a food and culture walk from Bergen Base Camp, a guided stroll that blends local flavors with stories of Bergen’s past.
If you’d rather get on the water, take a fjord cruise or short harbor tour for views of Bergen’s colorful facades framed by the surrounding mountains. For those craving a custom experience, Daytrip.com offers private sightseeing drives around the fjords and nearby villages.
Evening
Spend your final evening immersed in Bergen’s musical heritage at the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, one of Norway’s two national orchestras and among the oldest in the world. Founded in 1765, the ensemble, affectionately known as Harmonien, performs in the Grieg Hall often on Thursdays and select Fridays from September through May. World-class conductors and soloists regularly take the stage, continuing the city’s deep-rooted connection to music.
If time allows, cap the night with a late dinner or drink nearby, joining locals for one last look at the harbor lights.
More to explore
If you have extra time, Bergen offers several options to extend your stay. The city hosts more than 50 festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from jazz and film to seafood, literature and light art. Each season brings its own lineup of events, giving travelers a reason to return again and again.
To see more of Western Norway, consider booking a private day trip through Daytrip.com. Drivers can customize itineraries that include scenic fjord routes, charming coastal villages and historic towns just outside the city.
Whether you’re just passing through Bergen, perhaps as I did on a Hurtigruten cruise, or are exploring Norway, the city leaves a lasting impression. Its mix of mountain views, maritime heritage and creative spirit makes Bergen a place that stays with you long after you’ve gone.
Correction October 17, 2025: The original article cited 60 yearly festivals in Bergen, but Visit Bergen informed us that the correct number is 50. The article has been corrected to show the current number of festivals. They also recommended taking the funicular to Mount Floyen in the late afternoon if cruise ships are in port.
Jennifer Allen is a retired chef turned traveler, cookbook author and nationally syndicated journalist; she’s also a co-founder of Food Drink Life, where she shares expert travel tips, cruise insights and luxury destination guides. A recognized cruise expert with a deep passion for high-end experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Jennifer explores the world with curiosity, depth and a storyteller’s perspective. Her articles are regularly featured on the Associated Press Wire, The Washington Post, Seattle Times, MSN and more.