Bryggen in Bergen is a historic harbor district on Norway’s west coast. It preserves traces of social organization and illustrates how a neighborhood of Hanseatic merchants was used in the 14th century. Finds associated with Bryggen are on display at the Bryggen Museum – Bergen City Museum; check the current museum arrangements before your visit.

Traces of History and Craftsmanship

The Urnes Stave Church offers a different perspective on wooden construction: it is an outstanding example of traditional Scandinavian wooden architecture. Røros reveals another architectural dimension. The town comprises about 2,000 one- and two-story wooden houses, as well as a smelting house. In summer, visitors can also take part in a local culinary safari there. As this activity is seasonal, it is advisable to check current availability in advance.

Alta also offers a window into the distant past. Hjemmeluft is home to the largest collection of Alta rock carvings, which visitors can explore along walking paths and on guided tours. The rock carvings and rock paintings in Alta are estimated to be 4,000 to 6,000 years old. In comparison, Bryggen illustrates the use of a Hanseatic merchant district in the 14th century.

Fjords and Different Perspectives

The Nærøyfjord is among the Norwegian UNESCO sites inscribed exclusively under natural criteria. The Vega Archipelago offers a different perspective on the landscape: it comprises 6,500 islands, islets and reefs.

The Fosseråsa national hiking trail runs through the Geirangerfjord area. Kayaking is also possible on the fjord. Sightseeing cruises last 75 minutes or two hours—two specific time options to help you plan. Check the latest departure details before your trip.

Journeys, Hikes and Mountains

The Flåm Railway takes one hour to travel from sea level at the Sognefjord in Flåm to Myrdal mountain station, 867 meters above sea level. There, you can connect to Bergen Railway trains between Bergen and Oslo. Check the current timetable before your trip. Another travel connection to Flåm is the Rallarvegen: the cycling route ends there.

Jotunheimen is a mountainous region of about 3,500 square kilometers in eastern Norway. Hiking options there include Besseggen; the area is also suitable for cross-country and alpine skiing. Conditions for these activities are seasonal. The options mentioned offer hiking and two distinct forms of skiing as separate ways to explore the mountain region.

Seasonal Insights into Local Culture

At the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum in Å, visitors can see traditional crafts in action in summer: blacksmithing, steaming cod liver oil, making dyes and textile work. The program is seasonal; check the current summer dates in advance.

The Historical Museum offers the Viking exhibition “Miðgarðr – The Mythical World of the Vikings” for the whole family. As exhibition programs may change, check whether the exhibition is currently on display before your visit.

Discover More Destinations

Oppland, Telemark, Hordaland, Lofoten, Sor-Trondelag, More Og Romsdal, Oslo, Rogaland, Sogn Og Fjordane, Nord-Trondelag, Aust-Agder, Finnmark, Troms, Nordland, Vest-Agder, Buskerud, Hedmark, Akershus, Vestfold, Østfold