Bergen Cruise Port Guide: One Day, Three Ways

Table Of Content

• Mount Fløyen and Fløibanen Funicular
• Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene
• Bergenhus fortress
• Troldhaugen: Grieg’s Musical Haven
• Bergen, Norway

These tours typically depart from the Fish Market in Bergen and provide a two-hour round trip to the narrow Mostraumen strait. The boat journey takes you through beautiful fjord landscapes, passing waterfalls, steep cliffs, and picturesque scenery. Besides magnificent views, Fløyen features a large hiking area where you can spend hours if you wish so, a playground for kids, a shop, a couple of cafes, and a restaurant. The funicular is open every day all year round and you can purchase the tickets on Fløyen’s official website or on-site. All four Fred Olsen ships visit Bergen every year since 1997. Following the "fleet meet" day, Balmoral continued to Flam, both Black Watch and Braemar to Eidfjord, Boudicca - to Alesund.

Mount Fløyen and Fløibanen Funicular

The Hanseatic Museum showcases the city’s trading history, while the Edvard Grieg Museum takes you through the life and work of Norway’s most renowned composer. The Bergenhus Fortress, built in the 13th century, is one of the best-preserved castles in Norway. On your Norway cruise, the bustling city of Bergen will welcome you with open arms and plenty of fresh seafood. Norway’s beauty shines brighter than ever in Bergen, where colorful wooden buildings line every street.

Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene

The gateway to Norway’s most famous fjords, Bergen was also once the capital of Norway until it was unseated by Oslo in the 13th century. Bergen has always been a port city, and the impact of fishing has been integral to the economy for hundreds of years. Today, Bergen remains one of Norway’s most important port cities and is the country’s second biggest city, though retains the friendliness of a small town.

Bergenhus fortress

Please know any hill just to the north and east of the port is suitable for hiking. You’ll find there are several paths going up the hills from the town area. It is one of the steepest hikes in the world and it is loved by locals because this is their work out spot. Find the start marked on the map in the Bergen cruise port guide or ask a local. You need 1,5 hours from the ship to the top and the view will be worth it.

Apart from the popular cruise lines, some offbeat cruise lines such as Quark Expeditions, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, and Lindblad Expeditions offer unique itineraries that take you off the beaten path to explore the hidden gems of the Norwegian fjords. These attractions are within walking distance of the cruise terminal. As a UNESCO World Heritage City, Bergen, Norway offers attractions both ancient and modern. With colorful architecture, ancient cobblestone streets, and a medieval fortress, this charming city is a favorite of cruisers visiting the Norwegian fjords.

The technology allows the ship's diesel engines to be shut down during port stay/berthing, thus saving fuel and reducing emissions. If you have the chance, check for any guided tours or reenactments that might enhance your experience. On the shores of Lake Nordås, Troldhaugen gives you the chance to explore the life and legacy of Grieg but also offers breathtaking views of the serene surroundings. Welcome to the picturesque port city of Bergen, a city that is nestled amidst stunning fjords and surrounded by lush mountains. The large tourist office beside the fish market has free wifi. Small change is typically left when dining at restaurants (5-10%).

Head to Bergen’s atmospheric Fish Market, situated next to the tourist office, for a sensory delight of sights, sounds and smells in abundance. Marvel at large seawater tanks containing live lobster, king crab and many other seafood species. Sample a traditional Norwegian fish cake or perhaps sit down to a hearty pan-to-plate meal freshly prepared for you. Most stalls have no paper menus, choosing instead to plate the various meal options in what one stall owner jocularly called “3D menus”. At least it shows you exactly what you are getting for your money. Travellers to this part of Norway potentially have two images in their minds.

Arendal, Norway

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In less than 10 minutes, you’ll be enjoying panoramic views of the entire city below. Enjoy a mountain walk, or hike from Mt. Fløyen all the way to neighboring Mount Ulriken. Leave at least a half day to fully take in the mountains and nature of this area. Edvard Grieg is the most famous composer Norway has ever known.

He was born and raised in Bergen and although he travelled the world, he always comes back to Bergen. His house is nowadays a museum where you will also find a new auditorium and visitors centre. You can visit this sight by taking the taxi or the light rail.

All buses which stop at the port will go to the center of town. With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help. Plus, our experienced travel consultants have access to exclusive vacation deals to make sure you get the best value for your time and money. Within the fortress, you’ll discover various buildings, including the Rosenkrantz Tower and Haakon’s Hall, which offer insights into medieval architecture and royal history.

The queue for the Floibanen can be long, especially during summer time with a lot of ships in port. You can buy your ticket on the website and pass the line when you get there. It is only a 10 to 15 minute walk from the Skjolden en Bonelabo cruise dock.

As a departure port for cruises to the Norwegian fjords, Bergen is the gateway to a magical journey that promises to awe-inspire. This destination guide covers everything you need to know about the departure port Bergen, Norway, with all the necessary information to enlighten the reader. Head to the Bryggens Museum, where you’ll be surrounded by historic artifacts and findings from archaeological excavations.

Nestled on the southwestern coast of Norway, Bergen cruise port is the country’s second-largest city and second-largest port. The city is the starting point for exploring the legendary fjords of Norway and the gateway to one of the country’s most picturesque and historically rich cities. The cruise port in Bergen is really close to the town center so it is very easy to walk around and see the local attractions without needing to book any transport from the cruise line. Bergen, Norway, is a paradise for nature lovers, with its breathtaking fjords and picturesque landscapes.

Get the return ride back or skip it altogether and walk down the narrow mountain lane at your own pace. It's only five hundred yards to Bryggen and every souvenir and snack under the sun (midnight or otherwise). The square is surrounded by numerous shops and department stores, making it a prime shopping destination in Bergen. Torgallmenningen is also adorned with various landmarks and monuments, including the iconic fountain known as “Sailor’s Monument”, a 7-meter-high memorial to the Norwegian sailors. Travelers are captivated by Bergen’s UNESCO-listed Bryggen Wharf, the city’s maritime history, and the enchanting natural beauty that surrounds it. The following map of Port Bergen shows the cruise terminals and their berths locations, as well as the port's anchorage area.

This is a regularly scheduled passenger and cargo shipping service in Norway. The "ferry and cruise" itinerary is between two turnaround ports - Bergen (southmost) and Kirkenes (northmost). It connects a total of 34 ports, which are Norwegian communities without any road or air access. The Bergen-based BKK is a power company owned by Statkraft AS (49,9%, state-owned hydropower company), Bergen municipality (37,8%) plus 16 other municipalities. BKK specializes in electricity production and distribution, with end-user sales by Fjordkraft (co-owned by BKK and Skagerak Energi).

Stroll through the state of the art four-building KODE museum and view works by Picasso, Edvard Munch, and more. There are multiple galleries so you can spend as much time as you’d like viewing the art. A UNESCO’s World Heritage List attraction, Bergen’s ancient wharf hails from the year 1360. This is where you’ll find all the best artists, jewelers, and textile designers. If you plan on visiting museums, save money by buying a Bergen Card.

Bergen Cruise Port Guide 10 Best Things To Do In Bergen

Table Of Content

• Bergenhus fortress
• WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL
• Other Ports of Interest
• Business
• Things to do Near the Port of Bergen
• Paul’s Recommendations: Best Attractions on a Day Visit to Bergen

With this comprehensive destination guide, you can plan your trip to Bergen with ease and make the most of your Norwegian fjord cruise. Your ship will probably dock at the main cruise terminal, which is a 10-minute walk from the start of the city center and the main harbor. Larger vessels may dock at Dokken quay, a 20-minute walk from town. Just a few minutes’ walk from the Bergen cruise port is the funicular, which will take you to the impressive summit of Mt. Fløyen.

Bergenhus fortress

Because you’re close to the city center on your Bergen fjord cruise, there’s no need to worry about going out of your way to find good shopping. The best shopping is in the historic Bryggen area, and there are also boutiques selling wool goods and locally made ceramics nearby. The city’s main shopping district, where you’ll find dozens of Norwegian name brands, boutiques, and local craftsmen, is just beyond Olav Kyrres Gate. The Wharf at Bryggen is one of the most famous sights in all of Norway, and it was even declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. This is the place to shop, stop for a coffee, or enjoy a romantic waterfront dinner while in port on your fjord cruise to Bergen.

WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL

The electricity is produced at 29 hydropower plants in Norway. Today, much of the city's architecture reflects the lifestyle of Hanseatic merchants, who resided in tiny row houses close to the harbour. Bryggen is a collection of timbered Hanseatic houses from the 14th-16th century, restored and designated by UNESCO as a Heritage Site. Hanseatic Museum re-creates the living quarters of a merchant and his staff. King Haakon's Hall was built in the 13th Century, Rosenkranz Tower and Mariakirken in the 12th century. On March 1, 2018, MS Spitsbergen became Hurtigruten's first vessel using Port Bergen's shore power.

Other Ports of Interest

For the first time ever, on July 28, 2015, all four Fred Olsen ships (the whole fleet) came together in Bergen. At the following YouTube video, you can also see an aerial view of the cruise port and the terminals. Currently, shore power in Bergen Havn is available at 4 piers/quays (Bontelabo, Jekteviken, Skolten North, Skolten South) where 3 ships can be connected simultaneously.

Bergen has a wealth of tourist attractions that you must visit during your stay. The top attractions include the Bergen Fish Market, Mount Fløyen, Hanseatic Museum, Edvard Grieg Museum, and Bergenhus Fortress. Don’t miss the chance to wander around the Bergenhus medieval fortress. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Norway and its right at the entrance of Bergen Harbour. Over the years it’s been used to house royalty, hold church services and as a military fortress. There are so many things to do and see in Bergen that it’s hard to condense them down into one article.

As you wander along the narrow alleyways, you’ll be transported back in time. The colorful wooden buildings that line the wharf are remnants of Bergen’s Hanseatic past, and they are ideal for taking a leisurely stroll past. Whether you’re in the mood for a seafood meal or simply want to enjoy the atmosphere, Fisketorget is a must-visit. You’ll be able to see the fjords in the background and also see the city of Bergen. Once onboard, make sure to attend the mandatory safety drill and familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout.

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On the Nordnes Peninsula is Old Bergen Museum, an open-air collection of 18th-19th century houses. Norwegian sweaters, t-shirts, postcards, trolls, crystal, jewelry; it is all readily available. Remember that the shops at Bryggen (near the cruise ship dock) tend to be a lot more expensive than the stores in the center of town. If you get the chance to visit Bergen on a cruise, it’s a perfect city to explore on a day trip.

Note that renting a car can be expensive because of the limited parking options. Taxis can be hailed in the center of the city and in other parts of town, too. The ferry system is commonly used by travelers wanting to get to various fjords throughout the region, but those are often multi-day journeys. Bergen’s light rail is called the Bybanen, which is an effective way to get to popular tourist sights in Bergen.

Night Norwegian FjordsDetails

The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Bergen, Norway. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link. The following timetable provides valuable information and keeps track of the future cruise shiparrivals from all major cruise lines. Inorder to find out more about the cruise ship itineraries such as ports, dates, and arrival/departuretimes just follow the ship’s link. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, you’ll find that Bergen’s cruise port is well-connected to the city center, allowing you to make the most of your day visit. Apart from the city’s tourist attractions, there are several outdoor activities that you can do near the port of Bergen.

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If all berths are occupied, the additional vessel is anchored there and its passengers are transported via tender boats. Bergen's old waterfront is lined with colored buildings and warehouses, housing boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. Here travelers will also see the Fish Market at Torget displaying the catch of today. The Norwegian passenger shipping company FJORD LINE offers direct crossings between Bergen and Denmark (Hirtshals). FJORD LINE's schedule includes 1 daily crossing Bergen-Hirtshals (travel time 18 hours), 1 daily crossing Bergen-Stavanger (5,5 hours) and 1 daily crossing Bergen-Langesund (24 hours). Torggaten is the main pedestrian mall and square surrounded by department stores, cafes and restaurants.

The museum honors the first settlements in Bergen and offers a step back in time for any visitor to the city. It’s small and approachable, making it a perfect stop on an afternoon of museum hopping in Bergen. The wharf was one of the overseas offices of the Hanseatic League, a group which dominated maritime trade in Northern and Central Europe between the 14th and 17th centuries. The colourful wooden structures are possibly Norway’s most photographed buildings.

Enova SF is a Norwegian government enterprise promoting environmentally friendly productions and energy consumption. Compact and easy to get around, the attractions we’ve talked about such as the Funicular and the fish market, for example, make a good way to spend 5 or 6 hours here. Getting from the cruise port to Bergen’s city center is both convenient and straightforward. Bergen can be an expensive city, so it’s essential to budget accordingly.

Go beyond the city for hiking, or take a cable car ride to the top of Mt. Fløyen to see the city in full view. Leisurely walk the cobblestoned streets as you shop in boutiques, check out the famous Bergen fish market, or enjoy a coffee. Whether you’re interested in a whirlwind afternoon of sightseeing and museum hopping or prefer to take it slow, Bergen has an itinerary in mind for any style of travel. Bergen is a clean, friendly, accessible seaside town, rich in history and art, and it's easily navigated on foot or by public transport.

However, if you want to experience the Northern Lights, you can visit Bergen from September to March. Bergen has several Michelin-starred restaurants that serve world-class cuisine. The city’s most popular restaurants include Lysverket, Cornelius Seafood Restaurant, and Colonialen.