Known as the 'Gateway to the Fjords', Norway's second city is also one of its most attractive. Bergen has a delightful natural setting, with seven imposing mountains surrounding it on three sides forming a dramatic backdrop for the rainbow-painted houses that cling all the way down to the waterfront. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bergen history
With its sheltered harbour and the proximity to rich fishing grounds, Bergen quickly established itself as one of Norway's most important towns. By the beginning of the 13th century, it was Norway's capital, a status it enjoyed until the late 1200s, when the seat of government transferred to Christiania - the city nowadays known as Oslo.

Economic success was further assured in the 14th century when the Hanseatic League chose Bergen as one of its four main bases. By 1600, the city was Scandinavia's largest, with 15,000 inhabitants. Bergen has remained a successful trading port since (not least because of the discovery of oil in the North Sea in the mid 1960s) and an international business and tourist centre.

When to go
The peak tourist season runs from May to September, although it is just as likely to rain then as at any other time. The area has the dubious honour of experiencing one of Europe's highest average annual rainfall counts.

However, this should not spoil a visit completely, as there is plenty to do indoors - Bergen has some of the country's best museums and art galleries. Between November and March, the rain turns to sleet or snow but even the worst winter weather is not harsh by Norwegian standards, with temperatures rarely sinking below -5ºC (23ºF).