Bergen's Best Bars and Nightlife: Local Favorites and Hidden Hotspots

Exceptional craft beer selection with over 50 drafts. Unique brews made specially for the bar. Relaxed pub atmosphere with friendly staff and patrons. Prices are reasonable for Norway. Great views from window seats. Bartenders are knowledgeable and sweet. Fantastic Guinness. Ginger Ninja Nordic Berries highly recommended.

Can get crowded on payday weekends. No music or TV for entertainment. Food is not allowed on premises. Limited seating during busy times may require squeezing in. Some might find the lack of typical bar amenities disappointing.

Visitors praise the extensive beer selection, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere. Many appreciate the opportunity to try local Norwegian beers. The pub's central location and reasonable prices for Bergen are also frequently mentioned positives. Patrons enjoy the relaxed vibe and often describe it as a perfect place to unwind.

Some reviewers note that the pub can get crowded, especially on weekends, making it difficult to find seating. A few mention that the limited food options might be a drawback for those looking for a full meal. Occasionally, visitors find the prices for certain specialty beers to be on the higher side.

Relaxed atmosphere with great vibes. Impressive cocktail selection, including creative twists on classics. Hip-hop tunes add to the cool ambiance. Friendly staff and good service. Ideal spot for pre or post-dinner drinks. Conveniently located in downtown Bergen near the fish market. Eclectic decor creates an edgy, trendy feel.

Cocktails could be stronger and more potent. Some drinks lean towards the sweeter side. No food options available, only bar snacks. Limited to drinks and light bites, not suitable for a full meal. May need to plan dining elsewhere if looking for substantial food options.

Expertly crafted cocktails by skilled bartenders. Unique drink menu with fun facts. Upbeat atmosphere with mostly locals. Accommodating staff for custom orders. Relaxing ambiance. Unassuming spot worth visiting. Easy to find despite being off the main area. Small, welcoming bar with superb drinks. Bartenders willing to make off-menu favorites.

One group experienced poor service, waiting 15 minutes without acknowledgment from staff. They felt unwelcome and left without being served. The bar's entrance is in a dark alley, which may be off-putting to some visitors. The staff's attitude was described as snarky by one reviewer, suggesting potential issues with customer service.

Visitors praise No Stress for its exceptional cocktails, knowledgeable bartenders, and inviting ambiance. Many appreciate the bar's attention to detail in drink preparation and presentation. The tapas menu receives compliments for its quality and variety. Guests often mention the friendly and attentive service, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

Some patrons find the prices higher than average for Bergen. During peak hours, the small space can feel crowded, leading to longer wait times for drinks and seating. A few reviewers mention that the music can be too loud for conversation. Occasionally, guests report inconsistencies in service quality during busy periods.

Great atmosphere with live music, often acoustic covers of classic rock. Friendly bartenders offer a good selection of beers, including unknown varieties. The old-looking interior adds charm. Prices are typical for Norway. Patrons enjoy the relaxed vibe and return multiple times. Clean, cool environment with changing performers nightly. Highly recommended for visitors to Bergen.

One customer reported being served old beer that foamed excessively and tasted off. They felt the young bartender lacked the experience to recognize the poor quality of the beer. Prices are high by UK standards, though this is typical for Norway. No other significant negative feedback was provided in the reviews.

Visitors enjoy the bar's atmosphere, especially the outdoor seating area. Live music adds to the experience, with a singer and guitarist praised. The bartenders are friendly and the drink selection is good. It's a popular spot in Bryggen, perfect for people-watching and enjoying local brews. Some patrons developed a special bond with the place, returning multiple times.

Prices are expensive due to the prime location. Some find it too crowded and more of a place to pose and be seen. One customer reported being refused service after a few drinks, questioning the bar's serving policy. The bar might not suit everyone's taste, with some visitors preferring other venues in Bergen during their stay.

Visitors rave about the exceptional quality of seafood and the authentic Norwegian dining experience. Many praise the friendly staff and their knowledge of local cuisine. The picturesque harbor views and cozy atmosphere are frequently mentioned as highlights. Patrons particularly enjoy the fish soup and the daily catch specials, often describing them as some of the best seafood they've ever tasted.

Some guests find the prices high, even for Bergen standards. A few reviewers mention long wait times during peak hours, especially in summer. Occasionally, complaints arise about limited seating and the need for reservations. Some international visitors note that the menu could benefit from more English descriptions of traditional Norwegian dishes.

Apollon boasts 46 beers on tap, a rarity in Norway. The bar doubles as a music store, offering a unique vinyl-surrounded atmosphere with great background tunes. Bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly. The place is spacious with ample seating. Visitors appreciate the free WiFi, clean restrooms, and thoughtful touches like sanitary products for women.

Beer prices are high, around 170 NOK per pint, though this is typical for Norway. While the beer selection is extensive, the variety of lagers is limited. Some visitors might find the focus on vinyl records and beer overwhelming if they're not enthusiasts of both. The bar's popularity could lead to crowded conditions during peak hours.

Record shop with vast beer selection and vinyl options. Great for music lovers, especially Norwegian Black Metal fans. Friendly atmosphere with cool vibe. Bartenders helpful. About 40 beers on tap. Vinyl collectors paradise. Close to hotels. Merch available. Visitors often return multiple times.

Can get crowded with limited seating. Some found bartenders lacked enthusiasm. Drinking while browsing records can lead to overspending. No logo merchandise like pins available. Hard to find without local knowledge. Music-focused, so may not appeal to those solely interested in drinking.

Visitors praise the unique concept, combining vinyl shopping with drinking. The beer selection receives high marks, especially the local craft options. Many enjoy the eclectic atmosphere and friendly staff. Music enthusiasts appreciate the vast record collection and the opportunity to listen before buying. The laid-back vibe and occasional live performances are also frequently mentioned positives.

Some customers find the prices for both drinks and records to be on the high side. A few reviewers mention that the space can get crowded, especially on weekends, making it difficult to browse records comfortably. Occasional complaints about slow service during busy times are noted. Some visitors find the music too loud for conversation.

LYSVERKET offers exceptional fine dining in Bergen. Chef Christopher Haatuft's creative cuisine blends local ingredients with innovative techniques. Standout dishes include perfectly seared scallops and an ingenious oyster with pineapple ice cream. The atmosphere is edgy yet elegant, with cool staff and punk rock music. The chef's approachable attitude shines through, making for a unique culinary experience.

Some diners found the gap between courses too long, with food arriving after paired wines. The beverage pairings occasionally missed the mark, with servers unable to explain how drinks complemented dishes. Multiple courses sometimes shared the same pairing, which didn't always work well. While the food impressed, a few felt it lacked a 'wow factor' compared to other fine dining experiences.

Michelin-starred restaurant offers exceptional 9-course dining. Exquisite flavors, perfect wine pairings, and innovative dishes like mussel tempura delight guests. Friendly staff and sommelier enhance the experience. Scallop dish praised as amazing. 3.5-hour meal described as a once-in-a-lifetime event, worth every penny for food enthusiasts.

High-end dining experience may not suit everyone's taste or budget. Lengthy 3.5-hour meal duration could be excessive for some diners. Expensive prices, while justified by quality, may deter budget-conscious visitors. Sophisticated and minimalist atmosphere might not appeal to those seeking a more casual dining experience.

Visitors rave about the innovative cocktails, praising the bartenders' creativity and skill. Many appreciate the bar's unique setting within the art museum, noting the seamless blend of culture and mixology. The attentive and friendly service receives frequent commendation, with staff often going above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience.

Some patrons find the prices on the higher side, even for Bergen standards. A few reviewers mention that the bar can get crowded, especially on weekends, leading to longer wait times for drinks. Occasionally, guests note that the minimalist decor, while stylish, can feel a bit cold or impersonal.

Surprisingly good food with unique flavors. Fish soup and falafel standouts. Great lakeside views. Reasonable prices for Norway. Hip ambiance. Fantastic for lunch or quick bites between museum visits. Excellent coffee and beer. At night, it transforms into a lively dance spot with good music and a safe atmosphere.

Initially appears to be a tourist trap. Can get crowded during peak museum hours. While generally safe for dancing at night, visitors should remain cautious with personal belongings. Limited food options. Some may find it pricey compared to non-Norwegian standards, despite being reasonable for the country.

Patrons praise Landmark Bar for its creative cocktails, friendly staff, and energetic atmosphere. Many appreciate the bar's eclectic decor and the option to enjoy drinks outdoors. Live music events receive high marks, with reviewers noting the quality of performances and the bar's ability to create a fun, social environment.

Some customers find Landmark Bar to be overcrowded, especially on weekends, leading to long wait times for drinks. A few reviewers mention that the prices are on the higher side for Bergen. Occasional complaints arise about the noise level, which some find too loud for comfortable conversation during peak hours.

Excellent fish dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Bergen cod and fish soup are standout menu items. Large portions leave diners satisfied. Service is friendly and informative. Restaurant offers a refined yet comforting atmosphere. Good value for money. Cheese platter and fish sandwich also recommended. Ideal for experiencing authentic Norwegian cuisine.

Fish soup can be slightly too salty for some tastes. Apple cider not enjoyed by one reviewer. Reservations may be necessary as seating can be limited. Some dishes might be too rich or heavy for certain palates. Pilsner was noted as just 'nice', implying it wasn't exceptional. Limited menu options beyond fish dishes.

Local dishes shine at this popular spot. Standouts include plukkfisk, reindeer casserole, and fish soup. Beer and gin selections impress. Staff offer helpful recommendations and attentive service. Cozy atmosphere perfect for rainy days. Booking advised due to high demand. Repeat visits common among satisfied diners.

One reviewer had a poor experience, citing cold soup and subpar salted lamb ribs. They felt the service was rushed and impersonal. The Cava served was described as cheap, especially given the prices. This negative review stands in stark contrast to the generally positive feedback, suggesting potential inconsistency in quality.

Guests rave about the authentic Norwegian dishes, generous portions, and cozy atmosphere. Many praise the friendly staff and excellent service. The traditional meatballs and fish soup are frequently mentioned as standout dishes. Visitors appreciate the reasonable prices and the opportunity to taste local specialties in a non-touristy setting.

Some reviewers mention long wait times during peak hours, especially for larger groups. A few guests find the menu limited for vegetarian options. Occasional complaints about noise levels when the restaurant is busy. Some international visitors note that certain traditional dishes might be an acquired taste.

Bergen's sole gay bar offers a cozy downstairs and lively upstairs. Visitors praise the good music, friendly crowd, and reasonable prices. It's considered the best gay bar in Scandinavia by some. The atmosphere is fun and lively on weekends, with opportunities to meet friendly locals. The bar provides a solid experience for both tourists and locals.

Some find the bar disappointing, especially on weeknights. The lack of a dedicated dance floor is a drawback for those expecting more. The music selection could be improved, with requests for more 80s and 90s nights. Visitors should be cautious with their belongings, as there have been reports of theft. The bar's limited options as Bergen's only gay venue may leave some wanting more.

Clean restaurant with good atmosphere. Varied buffet with fresh sides. Excellent service from friendly staff, especially Aurora and Danusia. High-quality meats cooked perfectly. Tasty food and amazing drinks. Great concept for eating. Customers praise the overall experience and vibe. Many express desire to return.

Meal good but not amazing. Limited meat selection, some tough cuts. Service inconsistent, slow at times. Tipping system feels pressured. Not as good as other cheaper restaurants in Bergen. Portion control needed to avoid overfilling plate. Some found it surprising that the place ranks highly given these issues.

Patrons rave about Fincken's innovative dishes, praising the chef's creativity and use of local ingredients. The attentive and friendly staff receive high marks for their service and knowledge of the menu. Many reviewers highlight the cozy atmosphere and the excellent selection of drinks, particularly the craft beers and cocktails.

Some guests find the prices at Fincken to be on the higher side, though most agree the quality justifies the cost. A few reviewers mention longer wait times during peak hours, suggesting reservations for busy evenings. Occasionally, patrons note that the portion sizes could be more generous.

Ancient pub with 1300s cellar. Rich history, including a baker's daughter's portrait. Friendly staff shares stories and beer recommendations. Excellent Norwegian beers on tap. Unique decor and exclusive brews. Legends from the 1500s add intrigue. Worth exploring for history buffs and beer enthusiasts alike.

Limited negative feedback in reviews. Potential hazard of low ceilings, as one review advises to 'watch your head.' Some might find the focus on history and beer selection limiting if seeking a more diverse experience. The age of the building could pose accessibility challenges for some visitors.

Oldest pub in Bergen, dating back to 1305. Medieval atmosphere with low ceilings, thick stone walls, and candlelight. Great for date nights or history buffs. Friendly staff provide excellent service and share pub history. Impressive drink selection including local beers and Scotch. Live music on Thursdays. Must-visit for tourists and locals alike.

No significant negative aspects mentioned in the reviews. One reviewer wished for more friends to fully enjoy the pub's offerings, but this is a personal preference rather than a criticism of the establishment itself.

Guests rave about the cozy, romantic atmosphere and attentive service. The food is often described as excellent, with particular praise for the locally-sourced ingredients and creative presentation. Many reviewers highlight the extensive wine selection and knowledgeable staff who provide great pairing recommendations. The historical setting adds to the overall dining experience, making it memorable for many visitors.

Some diners find the prices high, even for Bergen standards. A few reviewers mention that the portions can be small. Occasionally, guests report that the service can be slow during busy periods. Some international visitors note that the menu may be limited for those with dietary restrictions or preferences for more diverse cuisine options.

Unique venue in an old bomb shelter. Hosts concerts and events regularly. Run by volunteers with a welcoming atmosphere. Clean and non-judgmental party space. Interesting mix of people. Good for guitar playing. Diverse weekly activities make it worth visiting. Nice ambiance in this unconventional pub setting.

Entry charge required, not offset by food or drink purchases inside. Can get very crowded during popular events. Advance ticket purchase recommended to avoid disappointment. Limited information available about the nature of the venue, which may lead to confusion for first-time visitors expecting a standard bar experience.

Hulen, a unique bar inside a mountain near the city center, offers a spectacular atmosphere for concerts and events. The cave-like interior creates a cool, divided space that doesn't feel too large. It attracts a chill crowd of music lovers and hosts interesting local bands. The venue's website lists upcoming shows, making it easy to plan a visit.

One reviewer reported being thrown out without justification, claiming they were accused of being too intoxicated despite just relaxing on a sofa. They also mentioned that the venue kept their money when they requested a refund. This incident suggests potential issues with staff judgment and customer service, though it appears to be an isolated complaint.

Visitors rave about Hulen's unique cave-like atmosphere and excellent acoustics. Many praise the diverse music selection, friendly staff, and the opportunity to discover new artists. The venue's historical significance and its role in Bergen's music scene are often highlighted. Patrons appreciate the intimate setting and the authentic, underground vibe that's hard to find elsewhere.

Some reviewers mention that the venue can get crowded and hot, especially during popular events. A few note that the cave-like setting might feel claustrophobic to some. Occasional complaints about long queues and wait times at the bar during busy nights. Some international visitors find it challenging to locate the entrance due to minimal signage.

Great location with harbor views. Quality beer selection and tasty food, especially the mussels. Menu more elevated than typical US breweries. Nice setup with plenty of seating, including a cute balcony on the third floor. Shuffleboard room available. Good break from touristy restaurants nearby.

Service inconsistent, sometimes attentive but often absent. Slightly overpriced compared to nearby options. Can be hard to find. Kitchen not always open, even during slower periods. While food and beer are good, some reviewers felt there were better options in the area for lower prices.

Visitors praise the helpful staff at Bergen's information center. They offer detailed explanations, arrange fjord tours, and provide valuable tips. The center is a comfortable place to plan trips and gather information about Bergen and its surroundings. Staff are friendly and attentive, even during busy periods. The Bergen Pass, while not essential, offers convenience for some attractions.

Some visitors found the Bergen Pass not particularly cost-effective, noting it doesn't result in significant savings. The pass might be more convenient than money-saving. Crowds at the information center can be an issue, potentially affecting the quality of individual attention. Some attractions, like the cable car, might require separate tickets or online booking for optimal experience.

Patrons rave about the excellent selection of craft beers, particularly praising the unique flavors and high quality of the house brews. The friendly and knowledgeable staff receive consistent praise for their beer recommendations and attentive service. Many reviewers also highlight the pub's lively atmosphere and the delicious food options that pair well with the beers.

Some visitors mention that the venue can get crowded, especially on weekends, leading to longer wait times for service. A few reviewers note that prices are on the higher side compared to other local establishments. Occasionally, patrons express disappointment when popular beer varieties run out quickly during busy periods.

Madam Felle in Bergen offers great live music, especially on Mondays with Voxne Herrers Orchestra. The venue boasts a friendly atmosphere and nice bar food, including vegetarian options like the unique Veggie Caesar salad. It's a popular spot with good service and ambiance. Visitors enjoy the iconic setting for a beer, making it one of the best places to go out in Bergen.

Seagulls can be a nuisance for those sitting outside. The venue can get busy, which might not appeal to everyone. Some may find the food average rather than exceptional. The Veggie Caesar salad, while tasty, differs from traditional versions, which could disappoint those expecting a classic preparation.

Madam Felle offers a perfect venue for large groups, with friendly staff and great service. The location in Bergen's center is ideal. Known for excellent food, including recommended BLT, and a diverse menu. The bar serves cold beers and hosts live music events, particularly popular for blues. Booking ahead is advised for busy nights.

One review reported extremely poor service, describing the staff as rude with a bad attitude. This led to a cancelled food order and early departure. The reviewer strongly advised avoiding the establishment. However, this negative experience appears to be an outlier compared to other reviews.

Visitors praise Madam Felle for its excellent live music, friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere. Many appreciate the venue's intimate size, which allows for a close connection with performers. The sound quality receives high marks, and the diverse musical offerings are frequently mentioned as a highlight. Patrons also enjoy the selection of drinks and the historical ambiance of the building.

Some reviewers mention that the venue can get crowded, especially during popular performances, leading to limited seating and long waits at the bar. A few customers find the drink prices to be on the higher side. Occasional complaints arise about the limited food options and the noise level, which can make conversation difficult during concerts.

Wide selection of local beers and cocktails. Friendly staff offer recommendations. Chill atmosphere with awesome music, often playing less mainstream tunes. Great for meeting friends or strangers. Central location. Prices are standard for Bergen. Staff once helped a hungover patron, offering a washcloth. Tasty cocktails create a nice ambiance.

Can get loud and crowded, not always cozy. Long wait times during rush hour. Some bartenders lack knowledge about drink ingredients. No physical menus, only chalkboard listings. Less appealing to tourists, catering more to working adults. Prices range from 70-100 NOK per drink, which may be high for some visitors.

Excellent service with friendly staff. Great atmosphere, especially on weekends. Wide variety of high-quality meats cooked perfectly. Delicious buffet with fresh sides. Tasty drinks and unbeatable vibes. Unique dining concept allows guests to enjoy their favorite meats at their own pace. Some reviewers praised specific staff members for outstanding service.

Food quality inconsistent, with some meats described as tough. Limited meat selection compared to other restaurants. Service occasionally slow, particularly when trying to pay. Mandatory minimum tip percentage on bill. Some found it good but not amazing, and felt it was overpriced compared to other options in Bergen. Overeating a risk due to abundance of food.

Patrons praise Elefanten Bar for its excellent cocktails, knowledgeable and friendly staff, and cozy atmosphere. Many appreciate the bar's vintage decor and relaxed vibe. The outdoor seating area is popular during summer months. Visitors often highlight the bar's extensive drink menu and the bartenders' ability to create custom cocktails based on individual preferences.

Some customers find the prices at Elefanten Bar to be on the higher side, particularly for cocktails. During peak hours, the bar can get crowded, leading to longer wait times for drinks. A few reviewers mention that the food options are limited and may not cater to all dietary requirements. Occasionally, patrons note that the music can be too loud for comfortable conversation.

Silent disco concept is popular, with two channels and song voting via app. Atmosphere is cool with a big dance floor. Beer prices are low for Bergen. Friendly staff participate in bartending competitions. Good popcorn available. Front bar area is a nice option for non-dancers. Lockers available for belongings. Overall, it's one of the better nightlife spots in Bergen.

Crowd skews young, mostly 18-20 year olds. Drink prices, while lower than other Bergen bars, are still high for non-Norwegians. Popcorn is very salty, possibly to encourage more drink purchases. Some people don't lock their belongings in lockers, increasing theft risk. Limited negative feedback overall, suggesting generally positive experiences.

Patrons praise Vaskeriet's creative dishes, attentive service, and cool atmosphere. Many highlight the quality of ingredients and presentation of meals. The cocktail menu receives high marks for originality and taste. Visitors appreciate the unique setting and the restaurant's efforts to maintain its historical character while offering a modern dining experience.

Some guests find Vaskeriet expensive compared to other Bergen restaurants. A few reviewers mention long wait times during peak hours. Occasionally, patrons note that the industrial decor can make the space noisy when busy. Some diners find portion sizes small relative to the price.