Bergen

Are you planning a trip to Bergen — the famous "gateway to the fjords" and one of the most picturesque cities in Western Norway? This historic Hanseatic city, surrounded by seven mountains, attracts travellers with its unique atmosphere and nature. You can get here in various ways: fly into the international airport, take a journey by train along a scenic railway, or arrive by car while enjoying the coastal views.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the city is by air. The main air hub is Bergen Airport (BGO), which receives many domestic and international flights. It is modern and well-connected to the city's infrastructure, ensuring a comfortable start to your journey.

If there are no direct tickets, you can consider flying to nearby cities with a subsequent transfer. For example, there are airports in the city of Stord (approximately 67 km away) or in the city of Haugesund (about 109 km away). An arrival option via Førde, located 122 km away, is also available, from where you can continue by ground transport.

A journey by rail to this region often becomes an attraction in itself thanks to the breathtaking views outside the window. Trains arrive at the central Bergen Railway Station, which is the terminus of the famous Bergen Line.

The station is located in the very centre, within walking distance of many hotels and the harbour. If you are travelling on a complex route, rail connections are also available in neighbouring regions, but for direct arrival into the city centre, it is most convenient to use the main station.

Bus routes connect the city with many settlements in the region, offering scenic trips along the fjords and mountains. For example, the journey from the city of Stord (about 82 km) will take approximately 2.5 hours. This is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the views without the need to drive.

Trips from the city of Haugesund are also popular; the distance is about 139 km, and the travel time is around 3.5 hours. If you are departing from the city of Førde (170 km), expect to spend about 3.8 hours in a comfortable bus.

Travelling by car will give you freedom of movement and the opportunity to stop at the most beautiful places along the way. A trip from the city of Stord (about 80 km) will take approximately 2.2 hours; the route may include ferry crossings, which is typical for Norwegian roads.

The road from the city of Haugesund, spanning 136 km, will require about 3 hours of time. If you are driving from the city of Førde (174 km), the journey will take just over 3 hours. Taxis for such distances can be expensive, so renting a car is often the more preferred option.

To ensure your trip to the "capital of rain" goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth preparing for local peculiarities in advance. Here are some practical tips for tourists:

1. Clothing and Weather. The weather here changes instantly. The main rule is layering and having a waterproof jacket or raincoat. An umbrella is often useless due to the wind.
2. Transport. The city centre is compact and is best explored on foot. For longer trips, use the convenient system of buses and trams (Bybanen).
3. Finances. Norway has almost completely switched to cashless payments. Cards are accepted everywhere, from museums to markets, so there is no need to exchange a lot of cash.
4. Health and Water. The tap water here is among the cleanest and tastiest in the world — you can and should drink it with confidence. This will save your budget and reduce plastic usage.
5. Communication. Almost all locals speak fluent English, so the language barrier is practically non-existent here.
6. Prices. Be prepared for high prices for food and services. Buying groceries in supermarkets and using the Bergen Card for discounts will help you save money.

By following these recommendations, you can feel confident and focus on the beauty of Norwegian nature and architecture.