Cruise boats churn water in the harbour, freshly caught fish fill the famous markets, feet rustle across cobbled streets, the early morning sun warms your face. These are all signals that this sleeping giant has awoken from its long, dark winter slumber.
Bergen is ready for summer, awaiting to greet with you its refined charm and exciting opportunities. My name is Christopher and I look forward to welcoming you to this wonderful city and helping you get the most of out of your time here in Bergen.
For centuries, Bergen, known as the ‘Gateway to the Fjords’, has been the heart of Norway’s western fjord region. Cruise boats pumping in and out of its bustling harbour provide tourists the access to explore the country’s most beautiful landscapes.
On land, the crooked row of colourfully painted gabled houses border the harbour’s north side. This collection of colourful buildings make up the Bryggen wharf, Bergen’s most recognisable historical landmark and a protected UNESCO World Heritage site.
It doesn’t take long to immerse yourself in this wonderful city, one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for both tourism and residency. It won’t be long before you begin asking yourself ‘what’s taken me so long to visit here?’
Great as both a city break and walking holiday destination, Bergen has something to offer everyone. Activites range from cruises along the gigantic fjords, exploring the city’s rich history within its many museums, zip-lining on Mount Ulriken or even glacier hikes and summer skiing on the Juklavass glacier!
One trip you must take is the Fløibanen funicular railway up to the top of Mount Fløyen. When you’re up there you’ll understand why. This wonderful view of Bergen harbour and surrounding islands is the city’s best kept secret.
The viewing platform is also the starting point for some of Bergen’s most beautiful scenic walks. The summer light rests on the horizon long into the night and on a clear evening Fløyen’s extensive trails stay well lit right up to the funicular’s last trip down at 23:00. These golden hours provide the best photos opportunities and, as an evening activity, makes room for other adventures only possible during the daytime.
An essential item for any visitor to this city is a ‘Bergen card’. Offering free and reduced admission to many of Bergen’s best attractions (including the Fløibanen), it is available on a 24, 48 and 72-hour basis. You can see the best the city has to offer without worrying about prices and spending. You can pick up a Bergen card from me when you arrive in Norway.
Like so many before me, I am under the alluring spell cast by the ‘Gateway to the Fjords’. I can’t wait to share my passion and fascination for this beautiful country with you. Nowhere compares to Bergen’s well preserved history and surrounding landscapes. Once you enter the ‘Gateway’, you start one of the world’s most stunning adventures.
Visit Bergen with Inghams on a single centre or twin centre Lakes and Mountains holiday, or as part of the spectacular Highlights of the Fjords multi-centre tour.