Bergen

Tucked between seven dramatic mountains on Norway’s rugged west coast, Bergen has a wild, adventurous spirit unlike anywhere else. Rain tumbles down here more than almost any other city in Europe, but that only adds to its cosy, magical atmosphere — locals take the weather in their stride and the wet streets make the colourful old buildings along Bryggen Wharf shine even brighter. Those painted wooden warehouses have stood by the harbour for hundreds of years, once buzzing with medieval traders, and today they are recognised as one of the world’s most treasured historic sites.

Bergen rewards explorers at every turn. Hop aboard the Fløibanen funicular and within minutes you are gazing down over a sea of rooftops, church spires, and glittering fjords stretching into the distance. Down by the water, the famous fish market fills the air with the smell of fresh seafood — the perfect spot to taste Norway like a true local. Creative and proud of its heritage, Bergen is the kind of city that stays with you long after you leave.