Having spent over five years working within the Nordic travel industry, there are certain destinations that draw you back time and time again, and Bergen is undoubtedly one of them. Each visit feels completely different, with a new fjord to quietly explore, an even more impressive waterfall to discover, a luxury hotel or dining experience yet to try, or a scenic mountain train journey and viewpoint you may have missed.
Bergen is the kind of destination that quietly exceeds expectations. Nestled between mountains and fjords on Norway’s west coast, it blends postcard scenery with a relaxed and sociable atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in and explore at your own pace. From the moment we arrived, staying at the Strawberry Clarion right on the harbourside set the tone for the trip, effortless, scenic, and full of memorable touches.
The hotel’s location could not have been better. Positioned right by the water, it offered immediate access to Bergen’s vibrant harbour life, with restaurants and bars just steps away. On arrival, we were welcomed with a glass of champagne and showed up to the rooftop terrace, a perfect introduction to the relaxed feel of the stay. The terrace quickly became a favourite spot, offering sweeping views across the harbour and a peaceful place to unwind after a day of exploring.
We were fortunate with the weather, enjoying sunshine throughout the trip, something Bergen is not always known for. This meant we could fully experience Bryggen, the city’s iconic row of colourful wooden buildings. Sitting outside with a cold beer and soaking up the atmosphere was one of those simple travel moments that becomes a highlight. The narrow, winding streets behind Bryggen are full of charm, with hidden corners revealing cosy bars, independent shops, and excellent seafood restaurants.
One of the most enjoyable outings was taking the funicular up Mount Fløyen. The journey is short but the views at the top are spectacular, stretching across the city and surrounding fjords. What makes Fløyen especially memorable is that it is not just about the scenery. There are walking trails, a fantastic play park filled with troll features, and even goats wandering around. It brings out a playful side in everyone. We chose to walk back down instead of taking the funicular, passing through several play areas along the way. Even the adults could not resist trying the slides and trampolines.
Back at the harbour, the fish market is a must visit. It is lively and full of tempting options. We chose king crab, which was cooked fresh right in front of us, making it as much an experience as a meal. Inside the covered market there is also excellent sushi and a variety of street food stalls serving everything from traditional Norwegian dishes to international flavours. The quality of the food was impressive and, despite Norway’s reputation, it felt reasonably priced.
Bergen’s food scene is a highlight in itself. There are countless restaurants to choose from, many specialising in fresh seafood. Some are just a short walk from the harbour, while others are reached by a quick boat ride, adding something different to an evening out. A simple stroll around Bryggen often led us somewhere new, from lively bars to tucked away restaurants serving beautifully prepared local dishes.
One of the standout experiences of the trip was taking an electric boat to Flåm. The journey is breathtaking, with waterfalls cascading down steep cliffs and picturesque villages along the fjord. The boat had large windows as well as outdoor deck space, making it easy to take in the scenery.
In Flåm, we boarded the famous Flåm Railway, one of the steepest train journeys in the world. The changing landscape was remarkable, moving from warm sunshine to snow topped peaks. We stayed on the train for the full return journey, enjoying the dramatic scenery both ways, including the well known waterfall stop where the woman in red appears, adding a touch of local storytelling to the experience.
@ Flamsbana Railway
The return drive to Bergen offered yet another perspective of Norway’s natural beauty. We stopped at Tvindefossen near Voss, a powerful and striking waterfall that is well worth visiting. It is easily accessible and provides a perfect final glimpse of the landscapes that make this region so special.
Back at the Strawberry Clarion, the hotel continued to impress. The food was excellent throughout the day, from generous breakfasts to well prepared meals later on. It was a place where relaxing was just as appealing as heading out to explore.
We also visited the zoo, which added another dimension to the trip and is a great option for families or anyone wanting to include wildlife in their itinerary.
Bergen strikes a rare balance. It feels both adventurous and easy going at the same time. Whether exploring fjords, enjoying incredible seafood, or simply sitting by the harbour in the sunshine, it is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. I would thoroughly recommend it for a weekend break, with flights around an hour and half from the UK with Loganair in the North East, it’s got to be on your travel list, thanks Annabel.
