Bergen, Norway: A Colorful Harbor, Mount Fløyen Views, and One of the Smartest Taxi Systems I’ve Ever Used

After two wonderful days in Amsterdam, we boarded a short flight to Bergen to begin our Norwegian adventure aboard the Viking Vela. I had heard Bergen was beautiful, but I was not prepared for how charming, efficient, and absolutely storybook-like this city would be.

Nestled between mountains and the sea, Bergen is Norway’s second-largest city, with a population of around 250,000 people. With colorful wooden buildings, cobblestone streets, and dramatic mountain views, it quickly became one of my favorite stops on our cruise.

First Impressions of Bergen Airport

The first thing I noticed when we landed at Bergen Airport was how incredibly clean and modern everything felt.

The airport was sleek and minimalist, with black stone floors, silver accents, and warm light wood throughout. Even the restrooms were spotless. It was not a large airport, but every detail seemed thoughtfully designed and impeccably maintained.

The Smartest Airport Taxi System I’ve Ever Used

One of the most impressive travel systems I encountered on this trip was the airport taxi kiosk.

Instead of wondering whether you are getting the right taxi or worrying about the fare, you simply enter:

• Your destination

• Number of passengers

• Amount of luggage

Within seconds, the screen tells you:

• The exact price

• The driver’s name

• The type of car

• The license plate number

• The taxi number

• Estimated arrival time

Our taxi was assigned immediately and arrived in exactly three minutes, just as promised. We knew before getting in that the ride to the ship would cost 971 Norwegian kroner.

As a traveler who likes to know exactly what to expect, I loved this system.

Boarding the Viking Vela

After arriving at the ship, we checked in, unpacked, had lunch, and set out to explore Bergen on foot.

One of the great things about sailing with Viking Cruises is that the ships are often docked close enough to walk directly into the heart of the city.

Exploring Bergen’s Historic Waterfront

Bergen felt like stepping into a storybook.

The harbor is lined with colorful wooden buildings in shades of red, yellow, orange, and white, many of which are part of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We wandered through:

• Cobblestone streets

• Narrow passageways

• Hidden courtyards

• Souvenir shops

• Historic wooden buildings

Because we visited in early April, some outdoor restaurants and seasonal shops were not yet open, but the city was still full of character and charm.

Norwegian Sweaters and Sticker Shock

If you love traditional Nordic sweaters, Bergen is full of beautiful options.

Be prepared, however, for the price. Many authentic Norwegian sweaters were selling for around 3,599 Norwegian kroner, which translated to roughly $350 to $360 USD at the time of our visit.

They were stunning, but definitely an investment.

Riding the Fløibanen Funicular

One of Bergen’s most popular attractions is the Fløibanen Funicular.

The station is an easy walk from the harbor, and tickets were approximately $20 to $22 per person. After a short wait, we boarded the glass-roofed funicular and climbed to the top of Mount Fløyen.

The ride itself takes only a few minutes, but the views are extraordinary.

Panoramic Views Over Bergen

At the summit, we were treated to sweeping views of the city, harbor, surrounding mountains, and our cruise ship docked below.

This was one of those places where you simply want to sit quietly and take it all in.

One of my favorite photos from the trip is of Jack sitting on the overlook, bundled against the cold, gazing over Bergen. We also snapped a selfie together, windblown and smiling, grateful to be there.

A Cozy Restaurant at the Top

After exploring outside in the cold and wind, we stepped into the restaurant at the summit to warm up.

The interior was warm and inviting, with candlelight, flowers, and beautiful Scandinavian design.

Then I ordered one of the most memorable cocktails of our trip.

The Freya Cocktail

The drink was called Freya, named after Freya, the Norse goddess of love and beauty.

The menu described it with a bit of Norse poetry and listed the ingredients:

• Elsker Pink Gin

• Yellow Chartreuse

• Blackcurrant

• Elderflower

• Lavender

• Oak

The menu concluded with the line:

“Almost as beautiful as its namesake.”

It arrived in a delicate coupe glass, vibrant pink and topped with a sugar-coated garnish. It was floral, lightly fruity, and absolutely delicious.

Our total bill for two beers and two cocktails was approximately $75 USD.

Was it expensive? Yes.

Was it worth it? In that moment, absolutely.

Sometimes travel memories are made of grand landscapes. Sometimes they are made of one beautifully crafted cocktail overlooking an unforgettable city.

A Magical Forest Above the City

What surprised me most about Mount Fløyen was that it offered much more than just a viewpoint.

Beyond the overlook, we discovered:

• Forest walking trails

• Troll-themed play areas

• A traditional yurt

• A beehive-shaped treehouse

• Cozy gathering spaces with animal hides and wood-burning stoves

The entire area felt like something from a Scandinavian fairytale.

Local Schoolchildren on the Funicular

On our ride back down, we shared the funicular with local schoolchildren heading home.

Parents waited at different stops with bicycles, loading their children onto the back and pedaling home through the city.

It was one of those everyday moments that gave us a glimpse into life in Bergen and made the experience even more memorable.

Returning to the Ship

After a full afternoon of exploring, we walked back to the ship.

We were cold, tired, and completely enchanted by Bergen.

After dinner onboard, we turned in early, excited for the adventures that awaited us deeper into Norway.

Tips for Visiting Bergen

• Dress in layers, even in spring. Bergen can be cold and windy.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.

• Budget for higher prices. Norway is stunning, but not inexpensive.

• Ride the Fløibanen Funicular for the best views of the city.

• Allow time to wander through Bryggen’s hidden alleyways.

• Treat yourself to a drink at the top if you want a memorable experience.

Final Thoughts

Bergen combines everything I love in a destination: stunning natural beauty, rich history, colorful architecture, and remarkable efficiency.

From the pristine airport and transparent taxi system to the panoramic views from Mount Fløyen and the whimsical forest above the city, Bergen felt both welcoming and unforgettable.

If you are cruising through Norway or planning a land-based trip, Bergen deserves a place at the very top of your itinerary.