Bryggen is the name of Bergen's historic waterfront area. Many of the houses here were burned down and rebuilt numerous times over the last 600 years and are now on UNESCO's World Heritage List.

Centuries of foreign trade have brought a distinct international atmosphere to Bergen, without losing any of the strong Norwegian roots.

Bergen is best explored on foot. Be sure to bring an umbrella; even the locals carry one wherever they go. With a weather forecast that includes the word 'rain' most of the year, Bergen's parks blossom like no other Norwegian city as is shown in this picture of the city park.

On a clear day (or anything closely resembling it), take the funicular up to Mount Fløyen. You will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the city, the islands and the sea. The trains run every 15 minute and up on the mountain you will find a restaurant that serves up a mean shrimp sandwich.

Mostly frequented by tourists, the Bergen Market is the place to buy or taste fish in all shapes and sizes. From fresh shrimp to whale (!), you are bound to be impressed by the fresh seafood extravaganza that is on display here. If you're hungry, visit one of the stalls that serve seafood sandwiches. As long as you don't touch the whale, you should be alright!

Bergen's Old Town is very pretty, with cobblestone streets and pretty timbered buildings that house coffee shops and art galleries.

Bergen is your best bet for souvenir shopping. Norwegian sweaters, t-shirts, postcards, trolls, crystal, jewelry; it is all readily available. Remember that the shops at Bryggen (near the cruise ship dock) tend to be a lot more expensive than the stores in the center of town.  

When sailing from Bergen, your ship will pass some impressive bridges and will zigzag to open waters, passing a lot of beautiful inlets and islands.