Bergen, an ancient city with deep Viking roots, is located in the heart of western Norway, nestled between seven gargantuan mountain peaks. It is also the gateway to the country’s magnificent fjords, including the Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord. Founded in 1070 on what was a Viking settlement, Bergen was Norway’s capital during the 13th century; today, it is the second-largest city in Norway. Not to be missed is a stroll through the picturesque outdoor fish market, Fisketorget, where the fresh catch of the sea awaits—from cod and prawns to local caviar and icy oysters.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Mt. Fløien Hike
Ascend 1,000 feet above Bergen to the top of Mt. Fløien for magnificent views.
Flightseeing Over Dramatic Fjords
Take flight on a scenic seaplane journey over the stunning fjords of Bergen and its mountain scenery.
Videos
Tour Edvard Grieg’s Bergen home with Christian Grøvlen
Explore the former Bergen estate of world-famous Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg with Christian Grøvlen, director of the Edvard Grieg Museum Troldhaugen. Follow Christian as he guides us through the home, the composer’s hut and the chamber music hall known as Troldsalen. As a special treat, Christian—who is also a renowned pianist—performs a piece by Grieg himself the beautiful Opus 54. At the conclusion of our visit, John Hovland, sales manager for the museum, answers viewers’ questions.
The World of Edvard Munch
Join Karine on a journey into Oslo’s renowned Munch Museum, where you will enter the world and mind of master expressionist Edvard Munch, painter of The Scream and more than 40,000 pieces of art.
The Essence of Norway: Edvard Grieg
Edvard Grieg composed some of Norway’s most beautiful music, including the much-loved Peer Gynt. Visit his home, listen to his music and admire the natural beauty that inspired him.
The Distinctive Bunad, A Statement of Norwegian Pride
The traditional Norwegian bunad is one of the country’s most iconic expressions of cultural identity. Join Karine as she explores the history behind this unique attire.
Shrimp Peeling in Bergen
Join two shrimp-peeling experts as they demonstrate their different methods. Try both and see which technique works for you. Then savor your hard-earned meal with white bread and a glass of chilled white wine!
Norwegian National Romanticism
Trace Norway’s inspiring journey to full independence—a pursuit that gave rise to the Norwegian National Romanticism, a movement that came to define what it means to be Norwegian.
Norwegian Language Lesson
Learn a few useful Norwegian words and phrases with Rikke, your Viking tutor. Skål!
Norway’s Penny Loafers
Join Karine as she explores the origin of this much-loved shoe known as Weejuns in America, so named in honor of its Norwegian ancestry. Learn how it made its way to America and how it played a role in Norway’s World War II history.
King Haakon of Norway’s Daring Escape in WWII
Follow the riveting story of King Haakon, who evaded the Nazis during their invasion of Norway, then continued to lead his people from the UK throughout the conflict.
Husmanskost: A Taste of Norway
Over the centuries, Norwegians created national dishes based on the seasonal availability of ingredients. Karine and the manager of Frognerseteren share some typical husmanskost dishes.
Gjetost: Norwegian Goat Cheese
Meet some of Norway’s four-footed locals, and learn about this quintessential Norwegian brown goat cheese as Karine shares the story behind gjetost.
Friele: The Taste Norwegians Love
Go behind closed doors with Karine for an insider’s look at the process that brings Friele, Norwegians’ favorite coffee, to life and learn about the fascinating art of “cupping.”
Fish On! Norway
Majestic vistas and tranquil waters. Norway is home to some of the world’s best fishing and there are many ways to test your skill. Join Karine as she shares a few of the ways locals practice their craft.
Family Fish Farming
Enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at a most unusual profession: Norwegian aquaculture, once a small industry in the 1970s, is now one of its greatest exports. Join Karine for an introduction to this fascinating world.
Explorer Leif Eriksson
Join Viking as we chronicle the story of Leif Eriksson, the Norse navigator who set out to explore the seas west of Greenland and discovered America, 500 years before Columbus.
Discover Bergen
So many treasures await in the colorful, historic port of Bergen, from the old harbor steeped in Hanseatic history to the home of Norway’s greatest musician, violin virtuoso Ole Bull.
Dale of Norway
Learn more about our Norwegian heritage and pride at the Dale knitwear factory. Meet the people behind the iconic Viking Dale knitted sweaters and find out what inspired this unique garment.
Composer & Violin Virtuoso Ole Bull
Hear the mesmerizing sounds of violin virtuoso Ole Bull. Join Karine to learn more about the life of an icon whose performances left audiences spellbound across the globe.
Aquavit: A Taste of Norway
Aquavit means “water of life” and is Norway’s national spirit. Join Karine to learn more about this old favorite and find out which vegetable is a key ingredient. Please note that while Femte I Andre, the establishment shown in the video, has since closed, there are many other bars and distilleries across Bergen where you can sample aquavit. You may also try our version of this spirit, Viking Aquavit, on board your Viking ship.
The Queen of Smørrebrød
Taste Denmark’s famous open-faced sandwich and perhaps try Hans Christian Andersen’s favorite variety. Watch as Copenhagen’s celebrity chef Ida Davidsen prepares these delicious treats.
