Car Hire Bergen

Bergen Mini Guide

What can you Tell me About Bergen?
Bergen is an exciting city in the west of Norway and popular for its culture, history and scenery. It was Norway’s capital and largest city until it was overtaken by Oslo. It’s known as the ‘Gateway to the Fjords’ and is a must-see stop on everyone’s visit to Norway. Surrounded by mountains that have restricted its growth, the geography of Bergen encourages hikers to the city for the spectacular views from the peaks. Over the centuries it has suffered greatly from fire leaving only the old harbour of Bryggen as a reminder of Bergen past.

How can I get to Bergen?
Seven miles away from the city is Bergen Airport, the second busiest airport in Norway, serving nearly six million passengers last year. The airport has flights from nearly forty European destinations including several from the UK. Getting to Bergen from the airport is easy with several bus and shuttle bus routes as well as taxis and hire cars. Proposals are in place to extend the Bergen tram line to the airport which should add another option for travellers.

What Should I See and Do in Bergen?
To begin with, make sure you take your walking shoes for the scenery around the city just cries out to be explored. A little energy and effort will reward the hiker with stunning views, unrivalled in Scandinavia. If you can’t handle the effort take the Fløibanen funicular railway up to the top of Fløyen to enjoy the views without the effort. In the city, head for the UNESCO recognised Bryggen harbour, all that remains of the old city. Bergenhus Fortress is also worth a little of your time, being the oldest and best preserved fortress in Norway and formerly the seat of the Norwegian kings.

What Should I buy in Bergen?
There are a lot of interesting and unique things to buy to remind you of your time in Bergen. Try some of the hand-made textile products such as tablecloths and napkins. Husfliden sell a range of traditional Norwegian products including jewellery and exclusive tableware. Other shops sell hand knitted Norwegian sweaters and of course there are the ubiquitous trolls.

What is There to eat in Bergen?
There’s plenty of local fare if you look hard enough. From locally caught fish to reindeer meat you’ll not be disappointed by the choice and some of the finer restaurants will use local ingredients, which used to be the fare of peasants, and turn it into something really special. You should also try raspeballer; potato dumplings served with bacon, sausages or lamb and other vegetables. All versions are filling, warming and delicious.

How do People Entertain Themselves in Bergen?
There are plenty of music festivals, the best being the Bergenfest which takes place at the end of April. This is supplemented by a jazz festival in the summer followed by a reggae festival. 17th May is Constitution Day and all Norwegians come out to celebrate their country with street parties, music and dancing.