Hey everyone! 👋 If you're planning to visit Bergen this Easter, there are a few important things you should know before you arrive.
- Billy
- 12 hours ago
- 3 min read
Updated for Easter 2026
Easter is one of the most enjoyable times of year in Bergen. As winter fades and spring begins to show, the city starts to feel lively again. Locals head to the mountains or their cabins, while visitors enjoy the quieter streets and beautiful scenery.
However, if you're planning to shop, dine out, or explore the city during Easter, it's important to know that opening hours change significantly during the holiday period in Norway. Many businesses close completely for several days.
This guide will help you understand Easter opening hours in Bergen for 2026, so you can plan ahead and avoid any surprises.
Amazon affiliates Travel Cable Organizer Pouch Electronic Accessories
Understanding the Easter Holidays in Norway
Easter in Norway includes several public holidays, and these affect when shops, restaurants, and attractions are open.
The main Easter holidays are:
Maundy Thursday (Skjærtorsdag) – 2 April 2026
Good Friday (Langfredag) – 3 April 2026
Easter Sunday (Første påskedag) – 5 April 2026
Easter Monday (Andre påskedag) – 6 April 2026
During these days, most shops and services close completely. Even the days around Easter often have shorter opening hours, so planning ahead is essential.
Many smaller businesses in Bergen close for the entire Easter weekend, especially from Thursday to Monday.
Typical Shop Opening Hours During Easter
Retail stores in Bergen usually adjust their hours around Easter. While every business is slightly different, here is what you can generally expect:
Maundy Thursday (2 April)
Many stores close early, typically between 15:00 and 17:00.
Large grocery stores such as Rema 1000, Kiwi, and Coop often close around 16:00, so it's wise to do your shopping earlier in the day.
Good Friday (3 April)
Almost all shops are closed.
Only some petrol stations and small convenience stores may remain open.
Easter Saturday (4 April)
Some supermarkets reopen with shortened hours, usually from 10:00 to 16:00.
However, many smaller shops remain closed.
Easter Sunday (5 April)
Nearly all retail stores are closed.
A few tourist-oriented shops and petrol stations may open, but options are very limited.
Easter Monday (6 April)
Another public holiday where most businesses remain closed.
Some restaurants and cafés reopen with limited hours, often serving brunch or lunch.
Buying Alcohol During Easter – Vinmonopolet Hours
If you're planning to enjoy a glass of wine or a whiskey over Easter, make sure you buy it in advance.
Norway's alcohol retailer Vinmonopolet has very limited opening hours during Easter.
Typical Easter hours look like this:
Wednesday 1 April: 10:00 – 18:00
Maundy Thursday: Closed
Good Friday: Closed
Easter Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00
Easter Sunday: Closed
Easter Monday: Closed
Tuesday 7 April: Normal hours resume
Because of these closures, shops can become very busy on the Wednesday before Easter, so it’s best to go early.
Restaurants and Cafés
Eating out during Easter requires a little planning.
Many restaurants in Bergen close on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, although some remain open for visitors and locals who stay in the city.
Restaurants that stay open often become fully booked quickly, especially if they serve traditional Easter meals.
If you plan to eat out during the holiday weekend, making a reservation is strongly recommended.
Attractions and Things to Do
Tourist attractions may also have reduced opening hours during Easter.
Popular areas such as Bryggen Wharf and the Bergen Fish Market can operate with shorter hours or limited services on public holidays.
Museums, tours, and cultural sites may close on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, while others open only for a few hours.
Always check the official websites of attractions before visiting to confirm the latest opening hours.
Enjoying Easter in Bergen
Although many shops close during Easter, the city itself becomes incredibly peaceful and beautiful. With fewer crowds and longer daylight hours, it’s a great time to explore Bergen’s streets, mountains, and waterfront.
If you plan ahead for shopping and dining, you can enjoy a relaxed and memorable Easter in one of Norway’s most picturesque cities.
Billy
