Skostredet - The new heartbeat of Bergen’s historic dining & nightlife quarter

Tucked away in the heart of Bergen’s city centre, Skostredet is a charming pedestrian street (and vibrant neighbourhood) that pulses with energy - by day a cosy alley of cafés, art, and restaurants; by night a lively gathering spot for bars and locals.

Though modest in length, Skostredet sits within walking distance of some of Bergen’s most iconic attractions - the Fish Market, Bryggen, Domkirken (the Cathedral), the Fløibanen funicular and the Tourist Information. 

Where is Skostredet and what makes it special 

Skostredet lies in the Vågsbunnen area of Bergen, tucked between Domkirkegaten and some of the city’s central streets. It is part of a historic quarter that combines rich heritage - old wooden buildings, narrow alleyways - with a modern, social vibe.  

In recent years, the street has become more pedestrian friendly, reinforcing its role as a gathering place for dining, meeting friends, and discovering small urban treasures all year round.  

Skostredet in winter. Photo: Visit Bergen / Espen Bakketun - visitBergen.com 

Read more about winter in Bergen here.

Restaurants & Bars in the Skostredet area 

Skostredet is known not only for its atmospheric architecture but also as a culinary destination. Here are some highlights of what you can savour when walking down this lively street, listed in no particular order:

Villani Skostredet 
A beloved Italian trattoria and pizzeria, Villani brings a relaxed and warm Mediterranean spirit to Skostredet. You’ll find Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizza, hearty pasta, and an inviting social dining concept. Their charming courtyard garden offers a peaceful oasis, especially in warmer months.  
Address: Skostredet 9A

Taperia Skostredet
This tapas-style restaurant blends Spanish culinary tradition with subtle Nordic influences. Taperia is known for its tapas and pinchos in an open, rustic setting - a place to share, natter, and linger.  
Address: Skostredet 1 B

Brasserie Chérie 
For a taste of France in Bergen, Brasserie Chérie brings classic French cuisine to Skostredet. With its flamboyant decor and passion for regional French fare, it’s a cozy yet refined spot to enjoy a leisurely dinner.  
Address: Skostredet 14

Le Mathis Bistro
Another great place for classic French, is Le Mathis Bitro, with their charming backyard and their own Champagne bar. It is located in a small side street off Skostredet called Sparebanksgaten.
Address: Sparebanksgaten 4a

Litteraturhuset and Colonialen LITT
At Østre Skostredet, the Litteraturhuset (House of Literature) is not just a cultural venue - it’s also home to LITT, a warm and thoughtful gastronomic space by Colonialen. LITT is divided into LITT Foran, a cozy bar where food, wine, and literature come together, and LITT Bak, a restaurant serving seasonal à la carte dishes rooted in Nordic cuisine.  

The adjacent café in the book lounge is perfect for settling in with coffee, baked goods, or small plates, surrounded by books and a calm, inspiring atmosphere.  
Address: Østre Skostredet 5-7

Villa Blanca 
Just a short stroll from Skostredet lies Villa Blanca, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offering French-Italian coastal flavours in a sunny, intimate setting. Their menu features delicacies like bruschetta, antipasti, stone-oven pizza, and even a Provencal bouillabaisse - all crafted with seasonal ingredients.  

In the evenings, the lounge transforms into a relaxed wine bar where you can sip sangria, cocktails, or fine wines in soft lighting and inviting surroundings.  
Address: Nedre Korskirkeallmenningen 1A

Såpas 
Såpas is one of Skostredet’s most intimate hangouts - a cozy gastro-bar with a homey, "living room" feel. Here you can enjoy comfort food like burgers, toasts, salads, and shareable small plates, all in a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. Their bartenders are masters of casual mixology, offering everything from classic cocktails and beer to creative sangrias.  
Address: Bankgaten 8

Last Monkey Cocktail Bar
Hidden just off Skostredet in Bankgaten, Last Monkey is a vibrant cocktail bar known for its playful, inventive mixology and urban-chic vibe. The bar team brings technical flair and creative energy, crafting drinks that range from sweet and tropical to smoky and bold. Open late into the evening, Last Monkey is the kind of place to unwind after a day of sightseeing - or to start a night out with friends.
Address: Bankgaten 6  

If you would like a comprehensive overview of restaurants in Bergen, you can find it here.

If you want to stay in or close to Skostredet, you have several great options, but Bergen is a small, walkable city, so you can easily stay anywhere in the city centre and still reach Skostredet on foot. Here are a few great options in, or very close to, Skostredet.

Staying in Skostredet 

Charmante Skostredet Hôtel

If you want to immerse yourself fully in Skostredet’s unique energy, Charmante Skostredet Hôtel is a boutique gem. What sets it apart is its beautifully crafted design: every one of its 41 rooms is uniquely decorated, drawing inspiration from early-20th-century Paris with bold wallpapers, elegant furnishings, and an unmistakably romantic atmosphere. 

Brasserie Chérie, which we have already featured above, is the elegant in-house restaurant in Hotel Charmante.  

Address: Skostredet 14

Opus XVI, an Edvard Grieg Heritage Hotel

Just a few steps from Skostredet lies Opus XVI, an Edvard Grieg Heritage Hotel housed in a beautifully preserved 1876 bank building in the heart of Bergen. With 65 uniquely designed rooms and suites, each space reflects the building’s elegant architecture while offering modern Scandinavian comfort. 

What makes Opus XVI especially memorable is its deep connection to Edvard Grieg - the hotel is named after his famous piano concerto, Opus 16, and features a curated exhibition celebrating his life and work. 

Tucked away in a quiet courtyard inside the hotel, the hotel’s restaurant and bar serve locally sourced fare in a warm, relaxed setting. 

Address: Vågsallmenningen 16

Magic Hotel Korskirken

Magic Hotel Korskirken has a warm but modern atmosphere and is ideal for families, business and leisure travellers. Villa Blanca, the hotels restaurant and nightclub, is located in the building’s first floor.

Address: Nedre Korskirkeallmenning 1 A

Check out all accommodation options in Bergen here.

Even though a few of the places mentioned sit just outside the street called Skostredet, they are all within the Skostredet area and no more than a one-minute walk away. You can explore all the places in Skostredet area on this useful map:

Why Skostredet is a must-visit in Bergen 

Skostredet may be small, but it’s packed with character. Here’s why it’s worth a visit: 

• Cultural crossroads: This street bridges Bergen’s rich history with its contemporary food and nightlife scene. 
• Diverse dining options: Whether you crave Italian warmth, Spanish tapas or French elegance - Skostredet delivers. 
• Perfect for exploring: Stay in the boutique hotel, stroll down the street, pop into a bar, and you’re right in the heart of Bergen life. 
• Vibrant yet cozy: It’s lively, but still intimate - a place to meet people, unwind, and soak in the urban atmosphere. 

Skostredet decorated for Christmas. Photo: Visit Bergen / Espen Bakketun - visitBergen.com 

Ready to plan your Bergen adventure? Discover more things to do, places to eat, and exciting events across the city and the region.