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.
Explore Norway's iconic mountains, glaciers and fjords, and discover Swedish Lapland's untamed wilderness on this epic vacation. Soak up hallmarks of regional culture and set out on each and every one of the great Scandinavian rail experiences, crossing the Arctic Circle to the "Land of the Midnight Sun." This ultimate tour combines...
(28 reviews)Join us on a journey crossing the length of Norway from Oslo to the Arctic Circle. Set out on four of the country's world-renowned rail routes - the Flåm, Bergen, Nordland and Rauma Railways - and cruise across Geirangerfjord, discovering otherworldly landscapes and stunning archipelagos en route. On this exceptional tour, we experience a taste...
(5 reviews)Discover Norway in the summertime with guided tours and time to explore Oslo and Bergen before embarking on a six-night Arctic cruise through some of the world's most magical fjords. On our epic voyage north, we mark the crossing of the Arctic Circle with a ceremony, then continue into Norway's Arctic region, experiencing the extraordinary...
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 sensational 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 Oslo,...
Aug 01, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Discover countries filled with culture, cuisine and remarkable scenery in the top-trending vacation destinations for 2026, from Europe to Asia and Australasia.
Read more
Jul 10, 2024 · By Vacations By Rail
From Europe's shores to the far reaches of Scandinavia, Japan, New Zealand, and beyond, the best places to visit in 2025 set the tone for incredible adventures.
Read more
Apr 28, 2021 · By Vacations By Rail
These train trips will take you on some of the most beautiful train rides in the world. Choose from our itineraries that featuring scenic train rides and iconic destinations.
Read more
Dec 05, 2019 · By Vacations By Rail
Discover the differences between Vacation By Rail’s independent and escorted rail tours in order to select the vacation that makes your travel dreams come true.
Read more