Bergen
Location, Climate:
Bergen is one of the largest cities in Norway and also serves as a gateway to West Norway's famous fjords. This beautiful city is situated in Hordaland County, which can be found southwest of Norway. Bergen experiences cool summers and mild winters. It is basically a rainy city, but the month of May have the least rainfall.
Brief History:
Traditional history revealed that King Olaf Kyrre of Norway discovered Bergen in 1070 AD, but modern history showed that trading settlement was already established as early as 1020 or 1030. Bergen was named the capital of Norway in 1217 replacing Trondheim.
Events, Landmarks, Activities:
The best time to experience Bergen is between the months of May to June, not only because of the excellent weather, but it is also the time that the Bergen International Festival is held. This is the largest musical and cultural festival in Norway that is held in different venues in Bergen. Most of the city's main attractions can be seen in Downtown Bergen including the Bergen Art Museum, The West Norway Museum of Decorative Art, Leprosy Museum at St. Jorgen's Hospital and Bergen Aquarium. A must-see for all tourists is the Bergenhus fortress which is one of the oldest forts in Norway. Also visit Bryggen which is famous for its wooden houses (some are named a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Transportation:
There is high traffic volume in Bergen so it is advisable to get around by foot especially in the city center and downtown area. The light rail line links the city center to the southern area of Bergen.
Bergen hotels range from discount family run bed and breakfast establishments to the popular Clarion Admiral hotel which overlooks the harbour.
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