Bergen is on Norway’s southwestern coast, sheltered by islands and mountains. It is Norway’s second-largest city, after the capital of Oslo. Bergen’s stunning scenic setting is only eclipsed by its captivating history. We were cautioned that it often rains in Bergen, but we enjoyed sunny weather during our visit in August 2012.
The Rosenkrantz Tower. Bergen was founded over 1000 years ago and in the 13th century was Norway’s capital city. The oldest part of this tower, now part of the Bergenhus Fortress complex, dates to that era.
Mountains and fjords. Bergen is nestled between its sheltered harbour off the Byfjorden fjord and the mountains surrounding it. This view is from Mount Fløyen, the summit of which can be reached either by the Fløibanen funicular railway, or by hiking trails.
University of Bergen. Founded in 1946, the university is based on several older scientific institutions, and is highly ranked worldwide (in the top 1%). Its museum features outstanding natural history and cultural history collections, and is worth a full day’s visit.
Fantoft Stave church. One of only a few dozen wooden churches remaining in Norway, the church was moved to Bergen, in pieces, from Fortun, about 300 km away, in the late 1800s. The church was destroyed by arson in 1992, and was rebuilt using similar building methods as that of the original, which dated from the year 1150.
Fruits of the sea. With the North Sea lapping at the city, seafood features on many restaurant menus. At this harbourside restaurant, we enjoyed meals that included hake (left) and cod (right).
Bryggen. The cluster of wooden buildings known as Bryggen (the dock) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The original buildings date back to Hanseatic League commercial activities in the 1300s, and were rebuilt in the early 1700s following a fire.
Travel note: Many tourists arrive in Bergen on fjord-seeking cruise ships. However, I recommend taking the 6-hour train journey from Oslo, which travels through and over scenic mountain passes.
