The city of Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains and is based around its harbour. In the Bergenhus district there are well-preserved medieval buildings. On the other side of the harbour is the Klosteret area, which has beautiful 18th century wooden houses and charming alleys, where you can take a stroll out to the Nordnes peninsula. The city centre extends from the main square (Torget) to the Nygård area, where most of the shops and restaurants can be found. In the Middle Ages, Bergen was the largest city in Scandinavia and it wasn't until the 1830s that it was overtaken by Oslo.
Bergen retains its status as an important port city. Bergen was involved in trade with countries all over Europe and was awarded its city charter as long ago as 1070, by King Olav Kyrre. Contacts with the Hanseatic League allowed Bergen to export fish and import crucial supplies of grain. In the harbour, which is called Vågen, you can still see parts of the Bryggen, the old Hanseatic Wharf. The old wooden buildings are on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and have been damaged by fire several times.
(116 reviews)
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Explore Norway's iconic mountains, glaciers and azure fjords, and discover Swedish Lapland's untamed wilderness on this epic vacation. Experience all the great Scandinavian rail experiences, cross the Arctic Circle to the 'Land of the Midnight Sun' and visit an authentic Sámi village to gain an insight into the traditions of Lapland's indigenous...
Experience the beauty of Norway, from its natural wonders to charming cities, on this rail tour across stunning landscapes. Journey through the impressive wilderness of plateaus and waterfalls on two of the world's most famous train journeys: the Bergen Railway and the Flåm Railway. Marvel at towering cliff faces on a breathtaking fjordland...
Norway's breathtaking Sognefjord is home to rich Viking traditions and some of the country's most fascinating cities. Its beautiful blue waters are surrounded by charming villages and varied terrain, complete with mountains, plateaus, waterfalls, and emerald forests. Explore this region by train and cruise on this eight-day journey through...
(43 reviews)Discover glorious Norway in summer, combining guided city tours and a journey on the Bergen Railway from Oslo with a six-night cruise through some of the world's most magical fjords into the land of the Midnight Sun. An epic voyage north is marked by the crossing of the Arctic Circle, before continuing into northern Norway to marvel at...
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