24 Hours in Bergen: Discover Norway's Second Largest City in a Day
So, Bergen is truly a unique city. Located between seven mountains and the sea, it’s the perfect starting point for your Western Norway adventure. It may not be a cosmopolitan hub, but for Norway, Bergen has it all: a lively cultural scene, a charming old town, and some of the country’s best nature on its doorstep.
When thinking of Bergen, a few things instantly comes to mind: cobblestone streets, rows of colorful wooden houses, and - of course - the rain. Bergen sees rain on roughly 230 days a year, making it one of Europe’s wettest cities. But don’t let that stop you. This is a city that embraces the rain, and you should too. Bergen is perfectly suited for exploring no matter the weather.
Start Your Day with a Morning Hike
Bergen is famously hilly, with many locals living high up in the neighborhoods climbing the slopes of its surrounding mountains. Unsurprisingly, Bergeners are generally quite fit - and many start their day with a hike. Why not follow their lead?
The trail network is easy to access from the city center. The most famous hikes are Stoltzekleiven, Fløyen, and Ulriken.
Stoltzekleiven, nicknamed “Stolzen” by locals, is a legendary workout route: a steep stone staircase of roughly 900 steps climbing 315 meters in less than a kilometer. It’s short, intense, and rewards you with spectacular views from the top.
If 900 steps sound a bit too intense for your morning, consider Fløyen instead. You can reach the summit by a more gentle hiking path, or simply hop on the iconic Fløibanen funicular, which takes you up in just a few minutes. At the top, grab a coffee at the café while taking in panoramic views over the city and fjords. From there, you might even catch a glimpse of the Fjord Cruise. Either docked or quietly floating through the city fjord.
For even more dramatic views, head to Ulriken, Bergen’s tallest of the seven mountains at 643 meters. You can take the Ulriksbanen cable car to the summit, where a restaurant awaits if you’d like to enjoy a romantic dinner later in the day. If you prefer to earn the view on foot, a route of 1333 Sherpa-built stone steps will take you to the top.
For those with extra energy, these mountain trails can be linked into a proper day mission - very popular among sporty locals!
Discover Bergen’s Main Sights
After conquering one of Bergen’s local peaks, head back down to explore the city’s heart. Bergen’s old town is wonderful to wander on foot, with its narrow streets, wooden houses and maritime history.
Bryggen, the city’s most famous landmark, is a must-see. This colorful row of Hanseatic trading houses is one of Norway’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The narrow passages behind the facades hide small shops, galleries, and even small museums, making it a place you can easily spend hours exploring.
When hunger strikes, pop by Trekroneren, a legendary hot dog stand that’s been serving hungry Bergeners since the 1940s. Known for creative toppings, including reindeer sausage, Trekroneren regularly goes viral on social media, and it’s worth the hype.
After having spiked your blood sugar, head over to Old Bergen Museum. This interactive museum offers a fascinating glimpse into what life was like in Bergen in the 18th and 19th centuries. With over 50 reconstructed wooden houses, charming cobblestone streets, and actors in period costumes, the museum brings Bergen’s history back to life in an engaging way. Enjoy live theatrical performances and peek into the homes of merchants and craftsmen, explore the old schoolhouse, or have a chat with a “local” from the 1800s.
On the other side of the city fjord you find the Bergen Aquarium. Inside, you’ll come face to face with playful seals and penguins and exotic fishes. The large saltwater tanks showcase the rich biodiversity of the Norwegian coast, giving visitors a chance to learn more about the life beneath the surface of the fjords.
Enjoy Bergen from the Sea
As Bergen very much is a harbor city, there’s truly no better way to experience it than from the sea. Many of Bergen’s most impressive buildings are located right along the waterfront. So hop aboard the Fjord Cruise to get front-row seats to all the beauty Bergen has to offer.
On a rainy day, you can sit inside and enjoy the view through panoramic windows, but on a sunny day, you might prefer to stand out on deck with the wind in your hair. On board, you can treat yourself to snacks and refreshing drinks from the boat’s café as you glide past Bergen’s beautiful sights.
Fjord Cruise Bergen
Discover Bergen from a new perspective - the sea! Cruise along the city’s waterfront, where charming wooden houses meet working harbors. See how locals live and work, and cruise past some...
- Fall, Winter
Visit Troldhaugen – the Home of Edvard Grieg
Back on shore, consider rounding of the day by visiting Troldhaugen, the beloved home of Norway’s most famous composer, Edvard Grieg. Located among trees with views of Lake Nordås, this peaceful villa was where Grieg lived and composed many of his most iconic works. Today, Troldhaugen is a museum dedicated to his life and legacy, a must-visit for anyone interested in music and history.
Wander through the beautifully preserved home, where original furniture, personal letters, and Grieg’s grand piano offer a glimpse into his everyday life. Just below the house lies the small composer’s hut by the lake, where Grieg worked in peace and quiet, surrounded by nature.
If you still have energy for a nightcap, head back to town and visit the bar No Stress - a hidden gem tucked away in a backstreet, serving some of the best cocktails in town.
