Bergen is one of Scandinavia's most beautiful and characterful cities — a place where medieval history, dramatic natural scenery and a vibrant food culture come together in a compact, walkable city centre. As the main embarkation port for Norwegian Fjords cruises, many passengers spend a day or two in Bergen before or after their voyage, and it is well worth the extra time.

The city's most famous landmark is Bryggen — the old wharf lined with colourful wooden merchant houses that date back to the 14th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bryggen was the centre of the Hanseatic League's trading empire in northern Europe for centuries. Today the buildings house craft shops, galleries, restaurants and museums, and the narrow alleyways behind the facades are a delight to explore.

Bergen's fish market is another essential stop. Situated on the waterfront at Torget, the market has been a focal point of city life for centuries. Fresh Norwegian salmon, king crab, shrimp and local specialities are sold from colourful stalls, and the fish soup is legendary. It is the perfect place for a quick lunch before exploring the rest of the city.

For the best views over Bergen, take the Fløibanen funicular from the city centre to the summit of Mount Fløyen. The eight-minute ride climbs 320 metres to a viewpoint that looks out over the entire city, the surrounding fjords and the seven mountains that ring Bergen on all sides. Hiking trails lead further into the hills from the top station, and there is a restaurant and café at the summit.

Bergen is also the starting point for some of Norway's most spectacular train journeys. The Bergen Railway to Oslo is one of the great scenic rail routes of Europe, crossing the Hardangervidda plateau at over 1,200 metres. The Flamsbana branch line — one of the steepest railways in the world — connects Myrdal to the fjordside village of Flam and is one of the most popular shore excursions on any Norwegian Fjords cruise.