Enjoying an outdoor meal on Bryggen's primary waterfront. Lately, this location has been the muse for the enchanted realm of Arendelle featured in Disney's Frozen films.

Exploring Bergen, Norway's City of Gastronomy

Bergen, a city nestled on Norway's western coast, is a vibrant destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Surrounded by seven mountains and a dramatic coastline of inlets and islands, Bergen is an ideal starting point for exploring the wilderness beyond its edge.

On the first day, visitors should make a beeline for Bryggen, the city's historic harbour district and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This medieval harbourfront sprang up in response to a flourishing codfish industry and offers a glimpse into Bergen's seafaring past and present.

Holmen island is home to Cornelius Sjømatrestaurant, an institution in Bergen known for its Meteorological Menu inspired by local fishermen's catches. For those looking to fuel up with lunch, the city's 300-year-old fish market is a must-visit. Fresh seafood is prepared at sleek counters, and visitors can sample traditional Norwegian delicacies such as cod tongue, fermented trout, and reindeer tartare served with a twist as bite-size Norwegian tapas at Bryggen Tracteursted, Bergen's oldest restaurant.

For those seeking adventure, Mount Fløyen offers summer bike rentals for exploring the city from a new perspective. With rugged hillside paths and challenging turns, it provides an exhilarating experience for cyclists. The Vidden Trail is a popular five-hour hike connecting Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken, offering breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Mount Ulriken, in fact, is home to Norway's fastest zip-line, providing thrilling views high above the city.

On the second day, visitors can start the day with a dose of culture at Kode, Bergen's most impressive cultural institution. Housing over 50,000 items across four galleries and three composers' homes, it is a testament to the city's rich and diverse heritage. Beyond the Gates heavy metal event takes place at Grieghallen concert hall in August, attracting metal enthusiasts from around the world.

Bergen's iconic fjords are another major draw, with tourist boats regularly darting in and out to see the cragged waterways. Balestrand, located in Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord, is a popular destination. In recent years, the area, along with the nearby village of Balestrand, has served as the inspiration for the magical kingdom of Arendelle in Disney's Frozen movies.

The creative culinary scene in Bergen is a testament to the global influences that arrived via its harbors. The Cider House in Balestrand is home to the world's northernmost cidery and a restaurant, offering orchard tours and tastings, traditional food, and a warm welcome from the Eitungjerde Høyvik family.

Visitors can also find solace in the tranquil surroundings of Askøy island, less than half an hour's boat ride from Bergen's harbour. It offers hiking trails up to the island's highest point, providing panoramic views of the Byfjord, Sotra, and Øygarden islands.

For those interested in music, Bergenfest festival is held in the historic Bergenhus Fortress from June 10-13, featuring big names in pop, rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. Vil Vil Vest festival/music industry conference showcases international artists and homegrown talent, with over 90 acts set to perform this year. Nattjazz festival takes place in Bergen from May 22-30, hosted in Verftet, a converted sardine factory.

The founder of the former sardine processing company, where the Nattjazz festival is now held, was Ole Mustad. The city entertains visitors through both its art and history, having been designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Camping is allowed for up to two days at a time in Bergen's mountains during the summer.

In the evenings, visitors can unwind at Kviknes Hotel, a grand Victorian timber building in Balestrand, or explore the Solund islands, which can be reached on a day trip from Bergen on the city's postal boat. With six bridges and a three-mile road connecting the islands of Solund, Bulandet, and Værlandet, it offers a unique and serene experience.

Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken provide thrilling experiences for those seeking adventure, while the city's historic harbour district, Bryggen, offers a glimpse into Bergen's past. The creative culinary scene, music festivals, and stunning natural beauty make Bergen a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Enjoying an outdoor meal on Bryggen's primary waterfront. Lately, this location has been the muse for the enchanted realm of Arendelle featured in Disney's Frozen films.