Looking for the best cafes in Bergen, Norway? I’ve got you covered!
Bergen is one of the most beautiful cities in Norway, and one of the best ways to experience it is through its cafes. I’ve visited each of these cafes myself and can confidently say that they are some of the best places to grab a cup of coffee in the city.
As someone who lives in Bergen, I’m here to tell you why each cafe should be on your list, and provide you with the best recommendations for your trip.
I decided to write this guide after my guide to the best restaurants in Bergen started getting attention, and I figured I should share my favorite coffee shops and bakeries too! I have even added a guide to the best spots for Italian food in the city since then.
With so much variety from traditional Norwegian cafes to modern unique ones, no matter what type of vibe you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your taste.
So whether you’re looking for something simple like an espresso or something more creative like an iced mocha served with lavender foam, I’m here to offer my personal recommendations and help make your trip even more enjoyable.
🤩 Whilst in Bergen, I recommend this historical walking tour to learn more about the city!
Table of Contents
Quick Bergen Travel Guide
Where to stay: Hotel Norge is a centrally located, higher-end hotel that is perfect for any traveler – and my favorite (their scrambled eggs at breakfast are the best in Norway). If you are looking for something in the historic city center, Clarion Havnekontoret is just a stone’s throw from the UNESCO-listed Bryggen. For something more budget-friendly, CityBox and Moxy are great alternatives!
Where to eat: I have so many favourite restaurants in Bergen, and have covered them all in this guide. Don’t miss Bryggeloftet (traditional, Norwegian), Poca Madre (Mexican), Boccone (Italian) and JAJA (International Street Food).
Top activities and tours in Bergen:
- Mostraumen Fjord Cruise from Bergen (check out the best fjord cruises from Bergen in this guide)
- Seeing the UNESCO listed Bryggen (on your own or on a walking tour)
- Viking ship fjord cruise
- Hiking or taking the funicular up Mount Fløyen
- Going on a day trip to Flåm and the Nærøyfjord
Packing for Bergen: My golden rule when packing and dressing for any destination in Norway is layers. Layers, layers, layers – and Bergen is no different. Additionally, Bergen can be quite a rainy city, so a waterproof jacket such as this one is ideal. Good shoes for walking around the city is a must too (the city is very walkable).
Getting to Bergen: I have covered how to get from the airport to the city center in detail here.
Getting Around: Skyss is the official public transportation system in Bergen. Download the app Skyss Billett (ticket) to have tickets on your phone.
10 Best Cafes in Bergen
Below I share my selection for the best cafes in Bergen – and trust me, it was hard narrowing it down to 10. The list is in no particular order – these are all great!
I have purposefully avoided the “chain cafes”, and instead added a section at the end of the post about these. Just because something is part of a chain of coffee shops does not mean it is bad. However, you’ll find that Norwegians tend to avoid them, and prefer the local one-of-a-kind places.
The only chain cafe on the list I have included is my new favorite cafe that has opened near where I live, at Kronstad X. I’ve added it as a bonus (think of it as cafe number 11), just because I love spending my Saturday mornings there getting work done, and couldn’t not include it on the list.
#1 Dromedar Kaffebar
Dromedar cafe is a must-stop for any traveller to Bergen, as it is located just a stone’s throw from the main shops and sights in the city center. Whether you are in the mood for something sweet or savory, this cafe has it.
They have a selection of freshly baked goods, sandwiches and wraps, perfect for a light bite. The interior of the cafe is pretty cool; filled with bright colors and textures that will inspire you no matter what kind of mood you’re in.
They don’t have wifi, so this is a great place to meet a friend over a coffee and a chat, or a good place to read (on my last visit I saw a few people studying).
If you can read Norwegian, they always have recent newspapers available for guests to read (as you can see from the photo).
- Best For: Reading, meeting friends for a coffee
- Dog-friendly: Only outside, where they have a few tables
- Wifi: No
- Location: Vestre Torggaten 1
#2 Møllendal Fetevare
Møllendal Fetevare is a great spot for travelers in Bergen to get a taste of the city’s vibe, with simple pizzas and a liqour license (unlike most cafes in town). In fact, this is often my friends and I’s go-to place for the first “outdoor wine” of the year.
This is mainly because it is located on one of my go-to walking routes along the Store Lungegårdsvann lake. Thus, it has become our first stop on many a Sunday afternoon.
The atmosphere is casual and engaging, perfect for taking a break from all the sightseeing and getting to know your fellow travellers – or just having a few drinks or some lunch by yourself!
So if you want an authentic experience of the city, along with some excellent pizza, then Møllendal Fetevare is definitely worth checking out.
If you don’t want to walk (it is about a 10-minute walk from the city center), you can take the light rail 3 stops from Byparken (city center) to the stop called Fløen. Møllendal Fetevare is right by the stop. However, I do recommend walking, as it is a lovely (and flat) stroll along the water.
- Dog-friendly: Only outside
- Location: Møllendalsveien 68D
#3 Pygmalion Økocafe & Galleri
The Pygmalion Cafe is the perfect spot for travellers visiting Bergen. With their focus on organic options, visitors can relax knowing they are enjoying healthy food. They have everything from sandwiches and fresh salads to pancakes on the menu.
Side note: these are Norwegian, savory pancakes served with cheese, ham and the likes – not sweet American pancakes.
The walls of the cafe are adorned with art from local artists, making sure to bring in local culture and atmosphere. You can actually buy the art, and they rotate the pieces they showcase regularly. It is free for local artists to display their art there, which is such a nice touch.
They offer great lunch options and are conveniently located near the Fløyen funicular, one of the top things to do in Bergen. Pygmalion is located right across the street from Magic Hotel Korskirken, a popular hotel in Bergen – so if you are staying there, you’ll have a great lunch spot right across the street.
- Best For: Lunch, art browsing
- Dog-friendly: Only outside, where they have a few tables
- Wifi: Yes
- Location: Nedre Korskirkeallmenningen 4 (aren’t you grateful I linked that so you don’t have to type it yourself?)
#4 Cafe Opera
Cafe Opera is a traditional cafe located in Bergen, Norway. It has been around for over 35 years and is considered a staple of the city. What makes Cafe Opera stand out from other cafes is that they claim to have served the first ever cappuccino in Bergen!
Many locals and tourists visit Cafe Opera for their delicious brunch menu that has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a great spot for brunch when visiting Bergen, Cafe Opera should definitely be on your list as it offers simple dishes that are sure to satisfy.
Since they have an extensive menu (think omelettes, sandwiches, salads and charcuterie boards), this is a great place for a longer lunch. Their small outdoor seating spaces look over the park in front of the theatre.
- Best For: A nice lunch/brunch
- Dog-friendly: Only outside
- Wifi: Yes
- Location: Engen 18
#5 Smakverket
If you’re looking for a delicious meal in the centre of Bergen, then Smakverket cafe is the perfect choice. Located right by the KODE Museums, it’s easy to find and makes for a great pit stop during your sightseeing.
Everything at Smakverket is made from scratch using only fresh, local ingredients – but their Eggs Benedict really stands out (served with either smoked trout or local bacon)!
Whether you’re visiting with your family or friends, this cafe is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. So make sure to take a break from exploring and enjoy all that Smakverket has to offer – trust me, it’ll be worth it!
- Best For: An upscale lunch or to meet a friend for coffee
- Dog-friendly: No
- Wifi: Yes
- Location: Rasmus Meyers Allé 3
#6 Colonialen Fetevare
Colonialen Fetevare is a great place to visit if you’re in Bergen. It offers both local and more luxurious ingredients, perfect for those looking to indulge. Alternatively, if you are shopping for food, you’ll love that they also have a shop within their walls.
They sell everything from cheeses and cured hams to pasta and truffles – don’t miss the “foam puffs”. They sell samples of them (one at a time) in the cafe, and packets of 6 in the shop.
Colonialen Fetevare also makes an excellent spot to grab lunch with friends – the hand-picked ingredients and inviting atmosphere make it a wonderful spot for any type of meeting or gathering.
Whether you’re looking for something special to make at home or just want a quick bite, Colonialen Fetevare is sure to have something that will satisfy your cravings.
- Best For: To shop for cheeses, oils and cooking ingredients after a nice lunch
- Dog-friendly: No
- Wifi: Yes
- Location: Strandgaten 18
#7 Fjåk Chocolate Store and Cafe
Fjåk Chocolate Store and Cafe in Bergen is the perfect destination for all chocolate lovers visiting Norway. Serving up some of the best chocolates made locally in Hardanger, Fjåk has something to satisfy everyone’s taste.
Hardanger is a region just a couple of hours from Bergen, and the Hardanger fjord is one of the best fjords in Norway.
Their speciality is giving customers the ability to mix and match their own hot chocolate, with a variety of flavors such as dark or white chocolate, flavoured chocolates and more. Basically, you start by choosing your chocolate of choice, then how you want it made (Classic, Mild or Spanish), and then you can add a big marshmallow at the end.
Side note: listen to the staff if they advise you something will be too sweet. I’ve learned from experience, and the white chocolate should be used in a Mild hot chocolate, not Classic.
Not only do they serve up delicious hot drinks, but also a selection of small chocolates that you can purchase to take away.
The atmosphere in Fjåk is cozy; with its small size it almost feels like home. And the windows looking out over Skostredet provide a great view for people-watching that visitors can enjoy while indulging in their treats.
- Best For: A chocolatey treat
- Dog-friendly: No
- Wifi: Yes
- Location: Skostredet 5
#8 Det Lille Kaffekompaniet (The Little Coffee Shop)
Det Lille Kaffekompaniet, which translates to The Little Coffee Company in English, is one of the most beloved cafés in Bergen. It is my friend Kira’s favorite Bergen cafe, and I’ve gone with her several days in a row to snag a cinnamon bun before they sell out when she’s visited.
I personally love this place for their delicious homemade treats that you can’t find anywhere else, however (cinnamon buns/twists are everywhere). Their cruffins (you know, a muffin made with croissant batter) are heavenly – and quite unique.
Even better, the cozy atmosphere makes it a great spot for coffee dates or catching up with friends. They are small, with limited seating, so it’s first come first serve.
So if you’re ever in Bergen, make sure to drop by Det Lille Kaffekompaniet and experience all the delights they have to offer!
- Best For: A cozy date or coffee with friends
- Dog-friendly: Outside only
- Wifi: Yes
- Location: Nedre Fjellsmauet 2
🤩 Read next: The best day trips and tours from Bergen!
#9 Kaf Kafe Bryggen
Kaf Kafe is a great spot for tourists in Bergen to take a break from sightseeing. Located in the heart of the historic Bryggen area, it offers a unique atmosphere with its traditional buildings and Norwegian flags.
The cafe also features laminated photos of their delicious waffles, which together with the flags make it feel a little touristy (if I’m being honest). However, it is a convenient stop for those looking for a quick snack while exploring this fascinating area of Bergen.
Despite its touristy feel, Kaf Kafe gives visitors a brief opportunity to rest while gaining insight into the city’s rich culture and history.
- Best For: Grabbing a coffee to-go whilst exploring Bryggen
- Dog-friendly: No
- Wifi: Yes
- Location: Jacobsfjorden 4
#10 Plassen
Plassen is a cute and informal cafe located in the square across the street from the local courts – a great place for an outdoor coffee and some people-watching.
My friends and I love it for brunch on the weekends, but they also serve delicious all-day lunch items as well. The cafe has an inviting atmosphere and a liquor license – so you can grab both a glass of wine and a coffee here.
They still take orders the “pandemic way”, which means you scan a barcode to open the menu on your phone. For some this feels like a hassle, whilst others prefer it – I’ll let you decide.
- Best For: Brunch or an outdoor coffee
- Dog-friendly: No
- Wifi: Yes
- Location: Tårnplassen 1
Bonus: Godt Brød Kronstad X
As mentioned, I would include a chain cafe as a bonus.
Godt Brød Kronstad X is an amazing new cafe located in Bergen, Norway. As someone who lives in the area, it has become one of my new favorites because it is so close to my apartment.
Additionally, Godt Brød Kronstad X is conveniently located right by the light rail stop and on the way to the airport, making it an ideal spot for travelers to grab a bite and/or some coffee on their way to catch a flight.
Served up with a smile and made with quality ingredients, this cafe has something for everyone – from sandwiches and salads to pastries and desserts. Whether you’re looking for breakfast before starting your day or a quick snack before getting on your flight, Godt Brød Kronstad X has exactly what you need!
If you visit on a Saturday morning, you are likely to find me tapping away on my keyboard here!
- Best For: Getting work done, meeting friends for lunch
- Dog-friendly: Outside only
- Wifi: Yes
- Location: Inndalsveien 6
Chain Cafes in Bergen Worth Noting
As mentioned, I would briefly cover the chains you can find in the city as well. With so many tourists coming in, it’s no surprise that the city has some excellent chain cafes for visitors to enjoy.
There are two Starbucks cafes in the city center, each offering top-notch coffee and snacks – like you would find all over the world. Personally, I am a sucker for anything Pumpkin Spice and Gingerbread flavored when the seasons come. So, if you are looking for your signature Starbucks order, you can find it in Bergen.
If you’re looking for something a bit more local, there are a couple Espresso Houses as well. Espresso House is basically the same type of cafe as Starbucks, but is a Scandinavian brand. You can find the same offerings here as at Starbucks, pretty much.
There is an Espresso house right in the city center along Torgalmenningen (the main square).
Finally, if you’re looking for something sweet, there’s no shortage of options – Godt Brød and Baker Brun are both popular chain bakeries that offer delicious pastries and baked goods.
You will find these all over the city center – I especially love Godt Brød for their loyalty program. You get every 7th coffee or bun/baked good for free. So make sure to sign up for their program if you are spending a few days in Bergen.
FAQs About Bergen cafes and coffee shops
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions I get about the best cafes and coffee shops in Bergen. I have tried my best to answer them all, but if you still have a question – leave a comment below!
Det Lille Kaffekompaniet was the first coffee bar to open in Bergen. Cafe Opera is also old, and was founded in 1985.
Most of the best cafes in Bergen are just a stone’s throw from the city center.
Yes, most of them! Vegetarian options are easy to come by, and more and more cafes also have vegan options. Fjåk Chocolate Shop and Cafe for example has vegan, homemade cookies.
🤩 Why not head out on a food tour in Bergen during your trip?
Final Thoughts: Bergen Coffee Shops
Bergen is a vibrant city full of culture and exciting activities. To round off your visit, there’s no better way than to relax in one of the city’s cozy cafes. Taking a break from sightseeing to enjoy some coffee and people-watch is an essential part of exploring this unique Norwegian destination.
For more travel ideas in Bergen and beyond, check out my guide to the best fjord cruises from Bergen! I’ve experienced some of the must-sees in Norway and love writing about my home country, so I hope you can get some great tips for your next trip.
