Bergen is
located by the water and surrounded by lush green mountains. It is the most
attractive city of Norway and the second largest city after the capital, Oslo.
The history
of this city has its roots in trading and may have started as early as the
1020s. At the end of the 13th century it became a bureau city of the
Hanseatic League until the mid of 18th century. What remains of the
quays, is the historic Bryggen with the Hanseatic Museum.
What to see
in Bergen? And it is all concentrated in Vagen bay in the city center. And it
is the center of the historical core of the city.
1. Floibanen is
the only funicular railway in Norway. It takes you to the summit of Floyen (320
m above sea level) and offers fantastic views over Bergen. Hiking tours are
available from June to August.
2. Bryggen is a
series of Hanseatic commercial buildings lining the eastern side of the Vagen harbor.
Since 1979 Bryggen has been the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
3. Hanseatic Museum – stockfish and grain trader’s museum. Here you can learn about the
Hanseatic League and its day to day life and activities.
4. Picturesque Streets – on the other side of the bay (right across from Bryggen), along the
Markeveien, as you walk toward the end of the peninsula, keep looking to the
left and you will see charming narrow cobbled streets going down. This is a
place where you want to simply wander up and down the streets and take lots of photos.
This was actually my favorite part of the city (if you like taking pictures).
And not crowded as historic center is, especially when the big cruise ships arrive.
Outside city center:
5. Troldhaugen – museum detailing
composer’s life and work, Edvard Grieg. By Light Rail toward “Nesttun”, station
“Hop”, 20 minutes from the center.
Where to stay?
Thon Bristol
has excellent location, right at Markeveien St, which takes you to the picturesque
area. A few blocks from Floibanen, Bryggen and Hanseatic Museum.
Where to go from Bergen?
1. Scenic Train Ride from Bergen to Oslo is considered one of the world's most scenic train rides by Bergen Railway www.nsb.no
3. Geirangerfjord is the most spectacular fjord of Norway and UNESCO World Heritage Site; by express bus to
Andalsnes, from Andalsnes by local bus to Geiranger during the summer time
only.
Bryggen
Edvard Grieg's house