As the 400-year Viking reign came to a close and Norway moved toward unification, the city of Bergen was born. In 1100 AD, it grew as a principal seaport and is the main base for the Royal Norwegian Navy. Norway’s first royal coronation took place in Bergen, and the city has produced no less than three Nobel Laureates at its nearby Norwegian School of Economics. Today’s Bergen is a thriving exporter and tourist destination. In 1979, Bergen’s importance as a trading empire was further acknowledged when the Bryggen Hanseatic wharf, dating back to the 14th century, was awarded the coveted status of UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover Bergen’s History and Artistic Soul
Visit the famous Dale of Norway, a living museum and one of the few remaining textile centers in Norway. See how the iconic Norwegian sweaters are made, inspired by beautiful Norwegian patterns. The KODE Art Museums of Bergen house Europe’s most impressive collections of modern paintings by celebrated son and pioneer in the expressionist movement, Norwegian artist Edvard Munch. Step further back in time with a visit to the Bryggen City Museum, where you will be amazed by the archeological artifacts going back to the 12th century. A myriad of contemporary fine art, craft and design can be found in the galleries along picturesque Lille Lungegårdsvann Lake in the center of the city.
Be Awed by the Glacier, Fjord and Catch of the Day
There is no natural spectacle more stunning than a snow-encrusted glacier, and Bergen lays claim to one of Europe’s largest. Nothing can match the feeling of your first breathtaking glimpse of the glacier as it comes into sight from the Upper Deck of your Viking ship. The light shining into Bergen reflects off the exquisite fjord, the deep inlet made within the glacial erosion. Hikers come to Bergen to trek across its mountainous landscape; those who want something more down-to-earth stroll the seaport to browse the world’s freshest al fresco fish market.
 | Dale of Norway: A Living Museum Visit one of Norway’s few remaining textile centers and see how the iconic Norwegian sweaters are made. You will meet your guide at our berth and enjoy an hour-long scenic drive to the village of Dale, nestled in a sweeping valley among soaring peaks on the west coast. Here, spend two hours getting acquainted with the Dale factory, world-renowned for more than just its sweaters. This historic mill harnesses the power of local waterfalls. The community of Dale developed around this ingenuity and the textile industry that it supports. ... READ MORE  * Shore excursion availability is limited and dependent upon departure date and cruise direction or may not be open to book at this time. |
