Dive into one of the most beautiful countries on this earth! First stop – Bergen. This Norwegian city really packs a punch, with its small-town scenery and cosmopolitan feel, and thanks to its proximity to the fjords, the exploring opportunities are endless.

1. Ride the funicular up Mount Fløyen

When it comes to unbeatable, panoramic views, Mount Fløyen knows a thing or two. And if you want to take the easy ascent, a six-minute ride on the funicular will take you right to the top. As you step off, you’ll be hit with the whiff of freshly baked pastries floating out from the mountain café. What’s better than a warming mug of steamy hot chocolate and a pastry with the city’s finest view?

Up the mountain, there are ample hiking trails with walks suitable for all ages. Along the way, you might even bump into some mellow mountain goats – we're not kidding! The ten goats all have names and do a stellar job of maintaining the verdant landscape around them.

2. Wander around Bryggen Wharf

Bryggen Wharf is the ultimate poster boy for Bergen, often featuring heavily on postcards and in plenty of Insta snaps. The colour-popping, chocolate-box houses dominate the wharf and despite falling victim to several fires over the years, they have been beautifully preserved.

This important Nordic trade hub is now, once again, a bustling hive of activity, brimming with charm and creativity. And it houses everything from cafés and restaurants to artists’ studios and shops.

3. Climb Mount Ulriken

More of the city’s natural beauty is on show at Mount Ulriken, one of Bergen’s seven mountains. Pull on your walking boots and follow the Montana route. It’s the most popular and leads you up 1,333 steps known as the ‘sherpa steps’, providing great views all the way.

Alternatively, there’s a cable car that’ll take you straight to the top, a whopping 634 metres above sea level. Then, this rich haven of flora and fauna is yours to explore. Hike among the pine-green paths, admire the views or dine at the Skyskraperen Restaurant.

4. Visit Fantoft Stave Church

Step back in time when you visit the Fantoft Stave Church. Set in a woodland clearing, these medieval, wooden churches are believed to be built on sacred Norse places and combine Christian and Viking motifs. Built in 1170 in Fortun, it was moved to Bergen in 1883, before tragedy stuck in 1992 and it was burned down. The church you see today is an expertly rebuilt version, but a great representation of the centuries-old style.

5. Sample some seafood at Bergen’s fish market

Be sure to spare some time to sample some net-fresh seafood down at Bergen’s famous fish market, where it’s been providing Norwegians with top-quality seafood since 1276. The food on the harbourfront restaurants does go for a pretty price, but it’s more than worth it for some tasty nosh!

Not a fish fan? The market also sells other fresh produce, handicrafts and souvenirs. Plus, it’s integral in understanding Bergen’s history!

6. See the fjords

The fantastical fjords are arguably one of Bergen’s biggest draws. And being situated between two of the largest, it makes this charming city the ultimate gateway to Mother Nature’s own work of art. Characterised by mighty mountains and sparkling water, there are endless active-pursuits options on offer, in and around the fjords, from kayaking and mountain biking, to fishing and hiking.

Opt for a go-slow cruise if you want to sit back and watch the scenery glide by. Relish the tumbling waterfalls and majestic peaks and enjoy the incomparable scenery.

7. Admire the art at KODE

Celebrate Norwegian art history at the KODE museums. Hosted across four different buildings, each one has its own specific focus, providing a great introduction to Bergen’s art-and-design collections.

KODE 1 is your go-to for fine craft and design, whereas KODE 2 is Bergen’s main hub for exhibitions, plus, it has a great café serving some great quality food! Dive into Norway’s golden age of art at KODE 3. It houses many of Edvard Munch’s major works too. KODE 4 is home to some big names like Picasso and it’s got a children’s museum for little artists.

8. Delve into Bergen’s history at the Hanseatic Museum

Discover how Norwegian merchants left their stamp on Bergen and how they made this city one of Norway’s most important trading hubs. A guided tour is a must-do in order to get a real insight into the life and work of the merchants. And while it’s now part of the past, the merchant’s presence is still very much felt down by the Wharf.

9. Get to know Grieg

Head to Troldhaugen to uncover the life of Bergen-born composer Edvard Grieg. This great Norwegian talent spent many a summer at his white-washed wooden villa tinkling the ivories and composing. When you catch a glimpse of the flower-studded surroundings, it’s not hard to see why this idyllic spot made a perfect muse for his music.

It’s now a living museum with an exhibition centre, a shop and a café. And it’ll be music to your ears to find out that you can also listen to Grieg’s compositions right here in the on-site concert hall, albeit not by Grieg himself, but it provides a great introduction to his music all the same!

10. Experience top-notch gastronomy

If you love nothing more than wining and dining, then you’ve come to the right place! Foodies will have ample reasons to love Bergen, especially as it proudly holds the title for UNESCO city of gastronomy. From meaty lamb stews to freshly caught fish, Bergen’s no stranger to first-class food.

Norway’s up there as one of the top three consumers of coffee in the world, so you won’t be disappointed if you’re wandering around searching for your caffeine fix. Looking for buzzy bars? You’re in luck! Thanks to the thriving student population in Bergen, you’ll find plenty of watering holes, plus beer fans can enjoy the ever-growing micro-breweries popping up all over the city.