Today’s port was a half day stop, arriving just after 7.00am with an “all aboard” at 1.30pm. The ship was berthed about a twenty minute walk from the main town and because of both these reasons Sylvia stayed on board while I walked into Bergen.
Bergen is Norway’s second largest city and as such has a large commercial and shopping area but the main reason tourists come here is for the Bryggen.
This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is where over 400 years ago traders from around Scandinavia and the Baltic would gather to discuss business. These wooden structures are being constantly maintained to ensure their survival and behind their pretty facades lie little alleyways and lanes.
Of course one of the main commodities that was traded here was fish in all its forms, fresh, dried and salted. Being in the city by myself gave me a chance to visit the fish market, something Sylvia doesn’t enjoy quite as much. A nice selection of fish could be seen.
Bergen has the reputation as being the wettest city in Norway and at times the clouds built up around the hills threatening a downpour.
Thankfully the rain held off as next I made my way to the funicular railway for a trip to the top of Mount Floien.
The journey to the summit only took a few minutes but it gave superb views over the city and the bay beyond, only spoilt by a rather large ship in the harbour!!
Everywhere you look in this city are striking buildings and unique architecture.
At the summit were many country walks in the woods, bike rides and a large playground, a great place for a family to spend some time. In the centre of the viewpoint stood a signpost highlighting the distance to some cities of the world. Kiev standing out in the colours of the Ukrainian flag.
Returning to the ship I found that Sylvia had discovered they served hot chocolate in the International Cafe so I guess that will be her go to drink from now on.
Tomorrow, our last day, is a sea day so tomorrow’s blog will be a reflection on Norway and the cruise in general.