Bergen is the second largest city in Norway, and the largest in the Western Norway region. Bergen is also the administrative center of Hardoland country. In the year of 2000 Bergen earned the title of European Capital of Culture along with 8 other cities in this region. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 265 thousand people.
The city of Bergen is located far west in Norway and is sheltered from the North Sea by a small number of islands. It’s situated along the latitude 60 degrees north with Oslo, Stockholm, Helsinki, Saint Petersburg and Anchorage. The city is one of the most hilly and mountain rich in Norway, it’s city center is surrounded by several mountains and peaks known as “Seven Mountains”. As it’s visible from anywhere in the city it’s adding true character to Bergen. The city is also part of the UNESCO list of cultural places, and has preservation spot as a World Heritage City. Further more the city is spread over several areas, all of them are completely safe for tourists and locals.
Bergen is an interesting travel destination with a number of sightseeing in and around the city, however it shows that most tourists find the laid-back ambiance, cultural landscapes and architecture more compelling that the regular sights and prefer spending time in the many cafe’s, taking a stroll in city center or the spacious parks, enjoy a concert or take a hike through the mountains. On hot summer days, it’s advised to enjoy the northern sunset from downtown Bergen. Although Bergen alone is enjoyable there’s some sightseeing’s to fill up open hours including Bergen Art Museum, The fish market (Fisketorget), Fløibanen, The West Norway Museum of Decorative Art, 18th century St. Jørgen’s Hospital, Bergen Aquarium, Statsraad Lehmkuhl, St. Mary’s Church, Bergenhus fortress and Bryggen. All by all Bergen is considered as one of the top travel destinations in Norway, not only by it’s locals but also elsewhere in Norway.
Americans do not need a visa for a visit of three months or less. In special cases, multiple entry visas may be given within a span of 6-12 months. Extensions on visas may be granted in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Proof of enough money to cover travel and accommodation costs may be required at the border.