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Bergen is the perfect base from which to explore the fantastic Norwegian fjords, and is suitably named the 'gateway to the fjords'. Various boat cruises, scenic train routes and hiking paths start from Bergen allowing you to experience all the best of this uniquely beautiful area of the world.
Not simply a gateway, the city of Bergen is an attractive destination in its own right and was one of nine European cities honored with the title European City of Culture in 2000. Bergen is also listed by UNESCO as part of the world heritage, through its characteristic old wooden waterfront, Bryggen - the Hanseatic Wharf. Although built after a fire in 1702, the wooden wharf represents the medieval building tradition, and the harbour quarter with rows of houses and narrow passages provides the visitor with a unique historical experience.
However, Bergen is more than Bryggen, and there is plenty to keep you occupied.
The following is a list of suggestions of things to see and do in Bergen and the near vicinity.
- Bergen Aquarium has a varied selection of aquatic life, especially penguins and seals, and is fun for kids.
- Bergen Art Museum is one of the largest art museums in the Nordic countries, with art from the renaissance as well as contemporary art. The museum houses several of Edvard Munch's works.
- Bergen Museum . is divided between the Cultural History and Natural History Collections, as well as having beautiful gardens and a tropical greenhouse.
- Fantoft stave church ( about 6 km from the city center ). Stave churches are built in a distinctive style using the logs of trees as pillars, by the early Christians. This is a reconstruction of a church originally built in Fortun, by the Sognefjord, around 1150.
- The fish market is not to be missed and is a great place to observe the locals and purchase some of the finest fresh fish and accompaniments. Free tastes are usually available. In addition to fresh and prepackaged fish, souvenirs, flowers and fruits are vended here.
- Fløibanen. Fløibanen is a funicular which goes up Mount Fløyen , one of the hills surrounding Bergen. From here, you get a great view of the city and can have lunch at the top overlooking the surrounding city, fjords and tiny islands.
- Gamle Bergen. (Old Bergen) is a reconstructed town with about 50 wooden houses from the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. It is a beautiful place to stroll on a sunny day. Guided tours are available.
- Gamlehaugen The castle on Gamlehaugen was the home of Christian Michelsen, former prime minister who freed Norway from the Swedish rule through the peaceful dissolution of the "union" in 1905. Nowadays, the castle is the royal family's residence in Bergen. There is a large and very popular park around the castle. Bathing possibilities.
- Troldhaugen This is the house of the famous composer Edvard Grieg, who wrote the Peer Gynt suite and is Norway's national composer. His country house (just outside the town center of Bergen) has been preserved in the state it was in when he died in the late 19th century. You can also see his grave; he was buried on his own estate. There is a museum devoted to Grieg and his work, and a concert hall with regular concerts.
- Ulriksbanen Cable car to the top of Mt. Ulriken, the highest of the mountains surrounding the city.
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