Norway’s rain kissed gem- Bergen

At first sight, Bergen might appear as a rainy bland city. Well, it does rain there for most parts of the year. But surrounded by seven mountains and a harbour, Bergen is a beautiful city with a spirit so lively that no rain can dampen!
Located in the heart of Western Norway, it’s the second largest city after the national capital Oslo, and the gateway to some of the most famous fjords in the world.

The Arrival

So we arrived at Bergen quite late on a December evening, and were greeted by a light drizzle. It had been a fun but tiring day and the thought of dragging the suitcases through wet cobbled streets wasn’t something we were looking forward to. (The hotel was only a kilometre away and we do walk as much as possible, plus trying to save some bucks coz Norway is super expensive). But anyway, it had to be done. After briefly resting up, we walked towards the main city in search of hot Norwegian food, and the bland transformed into delightful.

Read more about the absolutely unmissable train journey from Oslo to Bergen in this exclusive post.

The much required Dinner – Fish Me, fish market

The walk had to be interrupted due to lashing rains and with no scope of exploring, we found ourselves seated in Fish Me.

Doubling up as both a seafood market and restaurant, Fish Me is a unique experience. You can wander through the market’s stalls which sell a wide variety of fresh fish, shellfish, and other seafood from Norway’s rich coastal waters. Everything from glistening salmon, mackerel, and cod to delicacies like king crab, lobster, and shrimp, all on display on thick racks of ice.

The restaurant housed within the same premises is right next to the waterfront, and it was the perfect setup for a nice cozy dinner while we watched the rains lashing on the glass walls of the beautiful restaurant which we had been forced to walk into coz of the rain but were glad it turned out that way.

We also had our first taste of whale and reindeer meat here. We’d initially ordered the meat to be well-done as is the preferred style with Indians, but so glad that the kind bearer coaxed us into trying out the medium rare coz it was just lip-smacking. (Guess, we Indians still need to learn how to do steaks!)

And so after a sumptuous dinner, we’d started feeling more like ourselves, and Bergen felt so much more beautiful now that we had the energy to explore the brighter side of it.

There was no specific plan or a list of things to do. The only reason we were there was coz the beautiful train journey from Oslo was non-negotiable. And so, we just walked around taking in the city lights, before we called it a day, a very hectic one.

The Climb to Mount Fløyen

We started day 2 with a nice relaxed breakfast at the hotel. We’d made up our mind to go up Mount Fløyen, although my bitter half and me were still disputed on whether we take the Fløibanen Funicular or go hiking.

The better half always wins 😉

So up we went, through tiny nooks and corners of the city till we reached a proper trail. A nice hike that took about an hour and half, and should have been lesser if not for the number of stops for taking pictures. So rewarding with spectacular views all along the way – beautiful natural landscapes filled with moss-covered trees, streams, and small wooden bridges. The diverse flora and fauna make the hike even more enjoyable, as you can spot everything from tiny wildflowers to towering trees and birds of prey soaring overhead.

It did seem like a very popular hike. The sun was shining and we encountered people of all age groups walking / running up and down, making good use of the clear day after several days of rain. But if steep climbs are not for you, it’s best to take the Fløibanen Funicular up to the top and back down into Central Bergen.

The View from the Top

Once at the top of Mount Fløyen, the view is absolutely stunning. You’re treated to a panoramic vista that showcases the beauty of the city, surrounded by nature. To the west, you can see the colourful buildings of Bergen’s historic harbour, the Bryggen, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The harbour is framed by the gentle slopes of the surrounding mountains, while the bustling city center is laid out below, with its charming streets, squares, and parks.
The vast expanse of the North Sea is also visible in the distance.
The nearby peaks like Ulriken, Bergen’s highest mountain, can be seen towering over the city to the southwest.

The Trollskogen

Also located at the top of Mount Fløyen, is a forest trail with what felt like a bit of a whimsical and enchanting environment. The name “Trollskogen” translates to “Troll Forest,” and it’s a perfect spot for families and nature lovers to explore, especially if you enjoy a bit of fantasy along with your outdoor adventures.

The area is filled with moss-covered trees, twisted branches, and mysterious paths. There are playful elements like wooden troll figures, small bridges, and themed installations that can make the forest come alive if you’re one with imagination. It’s a short and easy trail, making it more suitable for younger children, with plenty of opportunity for exploration and adventure.

The Fløibanen Funicular – alternative to climbing

Although the climb is amazing, it’s steep and can really pump up the heart rate. For those who do not wish to take the trouble, there is an alternative. The Fløibanen Funicular, a popular tourist attraction transports passengers up and down Mount Fløyen, takes approximately 6 to 8 minutes for the journey. The funicular travels along a steep track through lush green forests, giving you a wonderful view of Bergen as it gradually unfolds beneath you.
The funicular station in Bergen is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy to reach from most areas of the city. It’s located near the popular Torgallmenningen square, close to shops, restaurants, and other attractions.

The Market Square

Torgallmenningen is Bergen’s market square. Located in the city center, the square is a bustling hub surrounded by historical buildings, shops, and restaurants. The area seemed particularly popular with people strolling through, sitting on benches, and enjoying the open space. Also lined with a mix of modern stores and traditional shops, offering everything from high-end fashion to quirky boutiques.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site – Bryggen – A walk through time

Bryggen is the historic harbour district in Bergen. This UNESCO site is the oldest quarter in Bergen, and the area along the Vagen harbour consists of the preserved colourful houses and warehouses. 

According to UNESCO: “It is a type of northern ‘fondaco’, unequalled in the world, where the structures have remained within the cityscape and perpetuate the memory of one of the oldest large trading ports of Northern Europe.”

Bryggen is a great very beautifully restored area, to eat in the several cafes, shop souvenirs and Norwegian wool or to just explore. The wooden walkways lead you to narrow alleys made of cobblestone streets brimming with charm of the olden days.

The Afterthoughts

We were in Bergen for just 2 nights. What started with disappointment, ended with the quest to see more, as it turned out to be a city that managed to effortlessly captivate our attention with its unassuming beauty.

Nestled between lush green mountains and the deep blue waters of the fjords, its charm lies not in grandiose sights, but in the quiet, natural elegance that surrounds it. From the colourful wooden houses of Bryggen to the tranquil pathways through Trollskogen, Bergen invites the curious traveller to discover its beauty in the smallest of details – or the panoramic vistas from the mountaintop, the faint rays of the sun hanging over the harbour at dawn, the warmth of a cozy pub on a rainy evening or the roaring laughter of the locals just hanging out.

Bergen is a rare beauty that doesn’t need to be flaunted but rather appreciated in its serene, understated form. Bergen’s magic is in its authenticity, a city that charms you slowly, drawing you in with its quiet allure.