Bergen is Norway’s second-largest city, home to the UNESCO-listed Bryggen and a true historic coastal gem, framed by soaring mountains and deep blue fjords.

We flew direct from Dublin to Bergen with Widerøe: under 2 hours in the air and a stunning approach over the fjords, which felt like a preview of what was to come. As a group of five we stayed in a central three-bedroom apartment just a short stroll from the main streets, ideal for exploring on foot.

On our first afternoon we wandered around the compact city centre and Lille Lungegardsvannet, the pretty lake framed by blossom trees and flowerbeds. That evening we had  a pre-booked floating sauna cruise with City Sauna. For two blissful hours we glided along the harbour and out towards the fjords, soaking up the views and hopping into the icy water.

The next morning started with a three-hour private walking food tour. We sampled local specialities at the Fisketorget Fish Market, the famous Trekroneren hot dog stand and finished with coffee and waffles at KAF in Bryggen. Along the way our guide shared fascinating stories about Bergen and Norway’s history.

Bryggen itself is unmissable: colourful wooden warehouses dating back to the 12th century, now home to bakeries, artisan shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. Walking through the narrow lanes really gives a sense of Bergen’s trading past.

Later we took the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen for panoramic city views. In just minutes you are surrounded by forest trails, a lake, a playground, cafes and of course the resident goats, “Fløyenguttene”. It is a lovely area for gentle walks and families.

That evening we experienced Norway’s largest gondola, Ulriken, rising 643 metres to the summit of Bergen’s highest mountain. Dinner at Skyskraperen Restaurant, watching the sun set over the city, bay and surrounding fjords, was spectacular and a real “must do”.

Day three was our big rail-and-fjord adventure. We took the train from Bergen to Myrdal, enjoying ever-changing scenery of lakes and mountains, then snow and frozen landscapes as we climbed higher. From Myrdal we boarded the famous Flåm Railway, which Lonely Planet has described as one of the best train journeys in the world, winding through some of the most dramatic fjord and mountain scenery in Norway. The journey down to Flåm is an experience in itself, with waterfalls, steep mountainsides and tiny villages unfolding outside the window.

After a well-earned lunch in Flåm, we joined a silent, fully electric fjord cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen. Gliding through the UNESCO-listed fjord landscape, surrounded by sheer cliffs and mirror-like water, was one of the most peaceful and beautiful experiences of the trip and I would recommend it in a heartbeat.

From Gudvangen we continued our scenic journey back to Bergen. That evening the city was buzzing with Saturday-night energy and we enjoyed dinner at Frescohallen Restaurant in the historic stock exchange building before turning in ahead of our morning flight home.

In just three nights we managed an incredible variety of experiences: city strolling, mountaintop views, food touring and unforgettable fjord cruising. Bergen and its surrounding fjords offer so much for all ages: walking and hiking, culture and history, foodie finds, scenic rail and fjord journeys and pure fresh air. If you like an active holiday in a cooler climate with lots to do, Norway is a fantastic choice.

We work closely with an excellent local partner in Norway who helped shape our itinerary, and I would be delighted to tailor something similar to your own interests, pace and budget. If Bergen and the fjords have sparked your interest, contact me to arrange a consultation and start planning your Norwegian adventure