Bergen Disney Travel Agents Near Me

Overview

Introduction

Founded in AD 1070, Bergen, Norway, 190 mi/305 km northwest of Oslo, is the country's second largest—and one of its most attractive—cities. Bergen is a popular cruise ship destination that attracts visitors year-round, and it requires a three-night stay to see everything.

During the Middle Ages, Bergen was the seat of kings, as well as one of the departure points for Vikings who roamed the North Atlantic and Mediterranean. Even after Oslo emerged as Norway's capital, Bergen remained an important port city and a European cultural city.

Must See or Do

Sights—Bryggen, the historic wharf area; the outdoor fish market at Torget; the funicular to Mount Floyen.

Museums—Troldhaugen, the former home of composer Edvard Grieg; the world's largest collection of medieval runes at Bryggens Museum; some of Edvard Munch's masterpieces on display at KODE.

Memorable Meals—Innovative Nordic cuisine at Lysverket; a shilling bun and bag of freshly boiled shrimp from the fish market eaten on the waterfront.

Late Night—Live rock music at Garage; cocktails and lovely views at Taket; top-quality wines at the city's oldest tavern, Altona Vinbar.

Walks—The scenic hike from Mount Ulriken to Mount Floyen; an evening stroll through the quaint neighborhood of Sandviken.

Especially for Kids—The Bergen Aquarium; interactive science exhibits at Vil Vite

Location

Shore Excursions

Overview

Introduction

Spitsbergen, Norway, the main island in a group called Svalbard, lies 500 mi/800 km north of Tromso and 800 mi/1,300 km north of the Arctic Circle. Seldom described as a well-known tourist destination in the past, this island has become more popular with Norwegian tourists.

Visitors seem to be attracted to the tranquility and remoteness of the island. Despite its mining population, Svalbard remains one of the few great untouched areas of the earth. Ice safaris there will take you through polar landscapes you might have thought only imaginable. Specialty cruises sometimes stop on the island.

Spitsbergen has two major ports: Longyearbyen (coal mining, seals, whales, walruses and seabirds) and Magdalena Bay (impressive glaciers, mountains and coastline).

The island also has a large population of polar bears, which are both very dangerous and protected. Wildlife-viewing tours are available, though there's no guarantee you'll see any bears. Between the mainland and Spitsbergen lies bird-filled Bear Island. One of the three main populations of Barnacle Geese can also be found in Svalbard, where they breed before heading south to spend the winter months in the Solway Firth, near Dumfries in Scotland.