Bergen

Despite Bergen being Norway’s second largest city, it really does have a small town, cosy feel to it. It is ideally located in the middle of Fjord Norway, so is often referred to as the Fjord capital of Norway.

Bryggen is a World UNESCO Heritage Site. It is the picture perfect the old wharf of Bergen, which serves as a reminder of the town’s importance as part of the Hanseatic League’s trading empire from the 14th to the mid-16th century. Today, 62 of these traditional building remain are and loving cared for (and restored when need be) by local crafts people. It’s the perfect spot get to that perfect picture whilst learning all about the history of the area.

The Fløibanen funicular offers the best views of the city by taking you to the top of Mount Fløyen. From here you can explore the Troll Forest or walk one of the many nature trails. At the top of Mount Fløyen you will find a café, restaurant and souvenir shop. There is also a large play park, so plenty to keep even the littlest of people entertained.

The KODE is Bergen’s museum and art gallery. It houses an extensive collection of art and design, with masterpieces by Edvard Munch, Nikolai Astrup, Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, J. C. Dahl and  “the Silver Treasure”. This museum is split across four different buildings each one focussing on a different collection. Tickets bought for the museum are valid for two consecutive days, meaning you have plenty of time to see everything.

You can’t visit Bergen without going on a Fjord Cruise. There are so many options to chose from. You can get a two hour cruise starting at the harbour covering the surround area. Or book an all day (12 hours) tours which will take you further inland to Norway before embarking on a cruise through some of the many spectacular Fjords. There are so many options to choose from, you will be hard pressed to choose just one.

Travelling to Bergen by Ferry

On the 1st September 2008 one of the most historical passenger shipping links in Europe ended as the MS Queen of Scandinavia sailed her final voyage between Newcastle and Bergen. This route was operated by DFDS Seaways.

However, you can still reach Norway by ferry using either Newcastle to Amsterdam or Hull to Rotterdam routes and continue to enjoy safe and relaxing ferry travel to mainland Europe.

The Hull to Rotterdam route features overnight crossings similar to our Hull to Zeebrugge service. Your ticket will include a comfortable cabin and the ships boast a range of dining and entertainment options, including two cinema screens and a casino. You’ll then disembark in Rotterdam which offers excellent road links to Germany, Denmark, Sweden before reaching Norway.

From Amsterdam, you will follow a similar route as if arriving in Rotterdam. You will take a scenic drive through Holland, into Germany, Denmark, Sweden and then onto Norway.

Why not have a look at our Denmark, Holland or Germany Destination Guides for inspiration on places to see and do while making your road trip.