Delightful Bergen
Situated in the far west of Norway , Bergen is the 2n largest city in Norway. You can take a scenic train ride and arrive from Oslo to Bergen within 6 hours. By train you will be able to see majestic mountains, plentiful waterfalls, snow covered fjords all what the charming landscapes of Norway can offer .
Regardless that Norway is expensive, this country is so rich in nature ,locals are still impressed by their natural surroundings. You don’t need to break the bank to travel to Norway, I will give you some tips to not spend foolishly when in Norway yet get the most of what it will offer you.
Let’s face it, we all want to see the beauty of the Norwegians Fjords and Bergen is the gateway to the Fjords. This is the starting point to some of the world’s best fjords. If you have a Nordic heart , Bergen offers long or short duration cruises up to the North Cape. If you go during Autumn or Winter, you have a very good chance catching the northern lights.
Tips to Travel Smart in Norway
I was surprised to learn and see Bergen was a larger city than what I expected. You can walk around the main attractions easily, but if you like to discover the outskirts, I suggest to purchase the Bergen City Pass to save some money. All the advantages purchasing a pass will not only benefit you but it helps save some money. With the pass, most museums are free as well as the cable car to Mount Floyen to see a spectacular view of Bergen. You get several discounts on attractions & some tours.
I would avoid taking a taxi unless really necessary. It was ridiculous when I learnt how much a 5 minute ride would have cost me. It is Norway I understand. With the city pass public transportation is free, now which would you choose? Be practical, purchase a city pass !
To purchase a pass you can go visit the Bergen Tourist Centre.
The Heart of Bergen
The main attraction in Bergen is Bryggen, which is part of Unesco Heritage Sites. In 1702 Bryggen went through a major fire that it got the whole area completely destroyed. It was later rebuilt as Hanseatic buildings.
Bergen is a young, vibrant city particularly Bryggen with the many stores, cafes or restaurants to choose from. A stop at the Fish Market to taste fresh fish, Norwegian’s speciality, is not to be missed. Quaint stores are equally lined up to purchase your choice of Norwegian souvenir, a wool sweater, a Christmas ornament or a Norwegian troll to bring back home.
Gateway to The Fjords
No trip to Norway is complete, if one will not see the Norwegian Fjords. Again, if you visit the Bergen Tourist Centre , there are plenty of Fjords tour to choose from. Be careful though the best ones end on 30 September , end of high season. If you are like me and avoid crowds, off season is a good time to visit as well.
There are no words to describe the beauty of these majestic fjords, it truly is ” can someone pinch me ” moment. Locals are still in awe with there surrounding nature . They embrace and connect with the mountains by taking family hikes .
Although there are plenty tours to choose from, make sure you ride on the Flam Railway to take advantage of the most scenic route after the Fjords.
All opinions on this post on Norway are my own.
