6-night The Coastal Express - North – Bergen to Kirkenes

With its spectacular setting among seven hills, Bergen is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable cities in Norway. Most sites are within an easy walk from the harbor. From fine surviving medieval buildings to a series of good museums such as Fishery Museum and Old Bergen open-air museum, Bergen offers a wide variety of attractions. Its scenic beauty can best be appreciated from Mt. Floyen and is captivating. Enjoy this lovely city by taking a stroll to the old part of town, passing impressive 12th-century Bergenhus fortress. Old Hanseatic Wharf, called Bryggen, is where reconstructed gabled buildings house workshops, boutiques and restaurants. St. Mary's Church is Bergen’s oldest building and one of the finest Norman churches in Norway. Rasmus Meyers Collection is a rambling townhouse featuring one of the best collections of Norwegian art, including an upper floor devoted almost entirely to Munch. Bergen boasts numerous historic buildings dating from medieval times: Bergenhus Fortress; Rosenkrantz Tower; Haakon’s Hall.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Bergen Walking Tour - 3 hours — Optional Private Excursions

Bergen may perhaps be a relatively small city (population of 260,000) however it is overflowing with history (the first settlement here were over 900 years ago), culture, incredible nature, gourmet restaurants and cosy cafe’s
Bryggen, the ancient Hanseatic Wharf, which is one of the best known European dwelling places from the Middle Ages, comprises a maze of characteristic wooden buildings with pointed gables facing the harbour.

This unique architectural gem is now listed by UNESCO as one of the world's most significant examples of the history and culture of a medieval settlement. Bryggen thrives today as a honeycomb of painter’s and craftsmen’s workshops, plus access to the interior of some of the buildings themselves where history has been preserved as it was originally. 
The Fløibanen funicular in Bergen is one of Norway's best-known attractions. Fløibanen can be found in the heart of Bergen. Fløibanen is a funicular cable car that takes you 320 metres above sea level. In just a few minutes you find yourself on top of a mountain with a perfect view of the city and its surroundings. You have not seen Bergen before you have taken Fløibanen.
 

Bergen -Hike to Mount Fløien and lunch at Bergen´s Fish Market – 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
You start this journey by meeting our guide and taking Bergen´s funicular, one of the trademarks of the city.
The funicular railway is one of Norway's most famous attractions. The trip starts in the heart of the city and takes you 320 meters above sea level. In just 6 minutes, you will find yourself on top of Mount Fløyen. After enjoying a panoramic view of Bergen we will start our hike!
Our guide will take you through the beautiful surroundings, enjoying the views of the city, the fjords and mountains while discovering the local nature. You will do this hiking at your own pace.
You may walk down to the city center or take the funicular. The tour ends at Bergen´s Fish Market, a place that has a long history that dates to the 1200s. Since then, the market has been one of the most important places for trade between fishermen, farmers, and the inhabitants of the city. Here you will say goodbye to our guide and enjoy a delicious and traditional Norwegian lunch. You will be served a traditional fish platter that includes local delicacies such as king crab, lobster, langoustines, oysters, and creamy mussels.
 
Basis:  Private hiking/walking tour.
Duration:       5 hours (incl 4 hours for funicular and hike, plus time for lunch on your own).
Start / End:   City/Fish Market.
Inclusions: English-speaking guide, Other languages on request, Entrance to  Funicular, Lunch at the Fish Market (Luxury platter: King crab, lobster and langoustines in garlic butter, oysters and creamy mussels. Served with salad, bread, aioli and tarragon dip, tap water). Vegetarian option available (Filled spicy portobello mushroom covered in melted local cheese, served on a bed of vegetables and sweet potato purée.)
Not included: Vehicle
Physical Activity Level:      Grade Moderate. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Tour can operate: afternoon/evening
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. Bring appropriate clothing and shoes.
 

Bergen Art & Design Walking Tour visiting KODE Art Museum and Arven silver factory – 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
You start this walking tour with our guide, visiting two of the main attractions in Bergen for art and design lovers.
 
We will pay a visit to KODE 3 Museum, which The Rasmus Meyers Collection and a great compilation of works by Edvard Munch, one of the most renowned Norwegian painters.
Among the highlights of the collection are paintings from the Golden Age of Norwegian art, as well as historical interiors from the Bergen area. The presentation includes highlights from the careers of other famous Norwegian artists such as J.C. Dahl, Harriet Backer, Erik Werenskiold and Gerhard Munthe.
 
We continue our tour by visiting Arven´s workshops. In 1868 Theodor Olsen brought international expertise when he established his own sterling silversmithery and store and quickly became a leader in Bergen’s arts and crafts community. Following his death in 1890, the silver smithery and store continued under the name of Theodore Olsen managed by the Aase family for many generations until 2016 when it became Arven AS. Today, Arven is a modern and innovative factory which is constantly developing new and exciting products through bold design work in cooperation with contemporary designers but preserving traditional techniques and classic design.
During your private visit you will be greeted by your host offering you a special welcome with a drink and a taste of delicious Norwegian local produce cheese and snacks, all served using their beautiful cheese slices and knives we create.
Your visit continues with a presentation about the story of silversmithing in Bergen, about Arven, our history, our products, and our way of working. Afterwards there will time for your questions and participation to “show and tell” how each visitor can make their own stamped pendant!
You are then guided to our workshop and witness where our silver cutlery and jewelries are crafted. There will be a little “ceremony” in the workshop where each visitor gets their own Arven medal.
 
Basis: Private tour.
Duration:      4 hours walking tour.
Start / End:   City.
Vehicle:        None.
Guide: English-speaking. Other languages on request.   
Entrances:     KODE 3 Museum and Arven Silver Factory.
Meals: None.
Physical activity level:      Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Wheelchair accessible: NO
Tour operates: morning, afternoon. Tour not available on Mondays.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. The tour is not offered on Sunday and Monday.
 

Bergen Food Tour – 3,5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
During your private visit you will visit Bryggen, which is on UNESCO’s list of world heritage. Your guide will take you through the old part of the city and you will have 5 stops with tastes on your experience. Your also visit the famous Fishmarket including a stop for a sweet surprise.
Bergen is a vibrant port city in the heart of the fjords. The second largest city of the country with 275, 000 inhabitants, it has a long history in international trade in seafood, reflected in its traditional and coastal gastronomy. The city’s food culture originating from sea biodiversity is considered the most sustainable in Europe. Deeply linked to healthy nutrition, gastronomy in Bergen thrives on organic food, the production of which is supported by more than 3,000 farmers and 200 artisan food entrepreneurs. In addition to this, another 6,500 people are employed by the aquaculture industry and fisheries.

Basis: Private tour.
Duration:      3,5 hours walking tour.
Start / End:   City.
Vehicle:        None.
Guide: English-speaking. Other languages on request.   
Entrances:     None
Meals: Tastings of local specialties and 1 beer or soft drink
Difficulty:      Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes. The tour is not offered on Sunday and Monday.

 

A quaint, quiet town nestled around deep blue waters, Floro is the center of the municipal Flora. Take in the countryside scenery of green hills, valleys of wildflowers, and stunning sea views. Enjoy fishing for herring, the local fish that brought the original settlers to this town, or observe and learn about the shipping history of Floro at the boat hall in Kystmuseet, which means Coastal Museum.

The region is famous for its beautiful scenery with high mountains and blue fjords, of which the Geiranger fjord is one of the most attractive tourist places in Norway. The climate is less severe than might be expected from its geographical location, with mild winters and cool summers. Ålesund, with its unique architecture, is the center of business and industry in Møre and Romsdal. As the sea, the woods and the mountains are easy accessible, the possibilities for outdoor and sports activities are excellent, both in the summer and winter season.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Ålesund Walking Tour – 3 Hours — Optional Private Excursions


Ålesund differs from most other Norwegian cities with its large concentration of buildings in the Jugend style of architecture. The explanation for this is simple; the town burned to the ground during the Great Fire of 1904. Rebuilding the city took a full three years, aided by numerous local contributions and large donations from the German Kaiser Wilhelm II.
The city planners agreed on consistently using the contemporary style of architecture, Jugend style (also known as Art Nouveau). It is a style characterized by artistic playfulness, fetching inspiration from organic forms and shapes in nature.
This combination of fjords, mountains and a town centre built in so-called art nouveau-style are some of the factors that resulted in Ålesund pinching first place in a survey by the Norwegian daily newspaper Dagbladet. Larger cities like Bergen (second place) and Trondheim (fourth place) – perhaps more famous for their beauty – were not considered to be as scenic as Ålesund when the Norwegians themselves cast their votes.
Walking tour through the winding old city streets, you will learn about the town's historic past. The tour takes in the Art Nouveau houses in the town itself, taking a stroll in the magnificent central district that displays beautiful houses with numerous and elaborate towers, spears and ornaments.
 

Ålesund City Tour – 4 Hours — Optional Private Excursions

Experience the splendid beauty and history of Ålesund during this picturesque 4 hour excursion through the city and its surroundings, via private vehicle, driver and local English Speaking Guide. Ålesund, a city built in an Art Nouveau style following a catastrophic fire in 1904. One of a few Art Nouveau towns in the world (Jugend style), Ålesund is home to an atmospheric distinct character that is warmly embraced by the locals.
Drive towards the Art Nouveau center of the town, marvel at the amazing decorations and colourful facades. A brief walking tour through the winding old city streets follows where you will learn about the town's historic past. A stop is made on route to the Art Nouveau Centre for a fascinating insight into Art Nouveau through authentic interiors and objects, as well as a captivating multimedia program called “From Ashes to Art Nouveau”. Here you can experience the devastating 1904 fire via film together with photographs and impressive sound and light effects.
Board your vehicle for the journey out of town towards Borgund, the largest trading centre in Sunnmøre during the Viking Era. Here you will view the picturesque Borgund Church followed by a visit to the inviting Sunnmøre Open Air Folk Museum, focusing on Norwegian coastal culture. Enjoy a stroll between the picturesque houses and the indoor exhibitions and get an insight into the cultural and architectural history of Sunnmøre and the Norwegian coastal culture. Heading back towards the city center, we detour with a drive up Mount Aksla. From this location, a panoramic view of the archipelago, the beautiful town center of Ålesund lying quietly below and the spectacular Sunnmøre Alps opens up in front of you. Return journey back to the city center.
 

The region is famous for its beautiful scenery with high mountains and blue fjords, of which the Geiranger fjord is one of the most attractive tourist places in Norway. The climate is less severe than might be expected from its geographical location, with mild winters and cool summers. Ålesund, with its unique architecture, is the center of business and industry in Møre and Romsdal. As the sea, the woods and the mountains are easy accessible, the possibilities for outdoor and sports activities are excellent, both in the summer and winter season.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Ålesund Walking Tour – 3 Hours — Optional Private Excursions


Ålesund differs from most other Norwegian cities with its large concentration of buildings in the Jugend style of architecture. The explanation for this is simple; the town burned to the ground during the Great Fire of 1904. Rebuilding the city took a full three years, aided by numerous local contributions and large donations from the German Kaiser Wilhelm II.
The city planners agreed on consistently using the contemporary style of architecture, Jugend style (also known as Art Nouveau). It is a style characterized by artistic playfulness, fetching inspiration from organic forms and shapes in nature.
This combination of fjords, mountains and a town centre built in so-called art nouveau-style are some of the factors that resulted in Ålesund pinching first place in a survey by the Norwegian daily newspaper Dagbladet. Larger cities like Bergen (second place) and Trondheim (fourth place) – perhaps more famous for their beauty – were not considered to be as scenic as Ålesund when the Norwegians themselves cast their votes.
Walking tour through the winding old city streets, you will learn about the town's historic past. The tour takes in the Art Nouveau houses in the town itself, taking a stroll in the magnificent central district that displays beautiful houses with numerous and elaborate towers, spears and ornaments.
 

Ålesund City Tour – 4 Hours — Optional Private Excursions

Experience the splendid beauty and history of Ålesund during this picturesque 4 hour excursion through the city and its surroundings, via private vehicle, driver and local English Speaking Guide. Ålesund, a city built in an Art Nouveau style following a catastrophic fire in 1904. One of a few Art Nouveau towns in the world (Jugend style), Ålesund is home to an atmospheric distinct character that is warmly embraced by the locals.
Drive towards the Art Nouveau center of the town, marvel at the amazing decorations and colourful facades. A brief walking tour through the winding old city streets follows where you will learn about the town's historic past. A stop is made on route to the Art Nouveau Centre for a fascinating insight into Art Nouveau through authentic interiors and objects, as well as a captivating multimedia program called “From Ashes to Art Nouveau”. Here you can experience the devastating 1904 fire via film together with photographs and impressive sound and light effects.
Board your vehicle for the journey out of town towards Borgund, the largest trading centre in Sunnmøre during the Viking Era. Here you will view the picturesque Borgund Church followed by a visit to the inviting Sunnmøre Open Air Folk Museum, focusing on Norwegian coastal culture. Enjoy a stroll between the picturesque houses and the indoor exhibitions and get an insight into the cultural and architectural history of Sunnmøre and the Norwegian coastal culture. Heading back towards the city center, we detour with a drive up Mount Aksla. From this location, a panoramic view of the archipelago, the beautiful town center of Ålesund lying quietly below and the spectacular Sunnmøre Alps opens up in front of you. Return journey back to the city center.
 

Nestled between the Romsdal Mountains and Norway's most dramatic stretch of coastline, Molde is known as the "Town of Roses". From the nearby Varden Viewpoint enjoy a breathtaking view over the town, the many snowcapped mountain peaks, and the small islands of the Romsdalfjord. Molde was established during the fifteenth century. Much of what visitors see today are modern structures, though some old wooden Romsdal houses were preserved and are now on display at the city's open-air museum.

Destination Guide

Explore the Atlantic Road through the middle of the ocean or walk the Fjord Route - a footpath on the very top of Fjord Norway. Whatever you choose to do in Kristiansund, it's sure to take your breath away.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Kristiansund city tour and drive along the Atlantic road – 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
The Atlantic Road is an absolute must see for those vising Kristiansund area. This unique section of road that takes you right out to the ocean’s edge and it is located only 30 mins away from Kristiansund. The road was voted Norway’s ’Engineering Feat of the Century’ and the British newspaper The Guardian called it ‘the world´s best road trip’.
The tour starts with a sightseeing tour of Kristiansund. You will enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the city from Varden Viewpoint and pass by Vanndammen and Kirkeland church. The church was designed by the architect Odd Østby on the theme "Rock Crystals In Roses ". Consecrated in 1964, this is perhaps Norway's most daring church building: when light flows through the 320 colour glass windows in all shades of red and yellow, the 30-metre high chancel wall is transformed into a symphony of colours. 
 
The tour continues through the modern Atlantic tunnel to Averøy. Along the road you will see agricultural land and small villages on the lush island of Averøy before the landscape becomes more open as we approach the Atlantic Road. Once we get there, we will of course take our time to take photos and admire the dramatic scenery of the coast and the road.
We will also stop at Bud fishing village and see Kvernes stave church from the outside. Kvernes is one of Norway’s youngest stave churches, dating from the 14th century. This church is situated on a hill that offers great views of the Kvernesfjord.

Basis:  Private tour.
Duration:       4 hours.
Start / End:   City.
Inclusions 1^st Class vehicle, English-speaking Guide, Other languages on request.
Not included: entrances and meals.
Physical Activity Level:      Grade Easy. Walking required over uneven surfaces.
Tour can operate: afternoon/evening
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Notes: Tour program may be reversed for logistic / planning purposes.

Norway's royal residence since 997 AD, when King Olaf I founded Trondheim, the city still boasts Stiftsgarden, the huge wooden palace. A century later, St. Olaf II began to perform miracles for the people, making Trondheim a major pilgrimage destination. Be sure to visit Nidaros Cathedral, where the Norwegian kings are still crowned, which is certainly one of Europe's premier Gothic-style churches.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Trondheim City Tour with visit to Nidaros Cathedral and Trøndelag Folk Museum - 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions

This is a tour around Trondheim centre and its outskirts. You'll pass by the main highligts of the city, the old town bridge, the Norwegian University of Science and Technologi (NTNU) at the Kristiansten Fort, the Royal Residence and many more. 

The tour continues with a visit to Nidaros Cathedral, the world’s northernmost Gothic cathedral. Built from 1070 over the tomb of St. Olav, the Viking king who brought Christianity to Norway, the cathedral was completed around 1300. In the summer months, you can climb the 172 steps to the top of the tower and be rewarded with an unrivaled view of the city.

You will also visit Trøndelag Open-Air Folk Museum, also known as “Sverresborg”. This is an open air museum with more than 80 historical buildings and several indoor exhibitions. The museum’s old town is comprised of buildings that were originally located in downtown Trondheim, and offers a charming representation of the wooden houses that have dominated the cityscape from the 18th century up until today. The museum’s rural department is located around the ruins of the castle, and consists of farmsteads and houses surrounded by picturesque nature. The houses are all originally from the Trøndelag region. In the rural department you will also find our Sami collection, the Haltdalen stave church, the Lo church and the old school.

Beautiful Bronnoysund is situated in central Norway. Popular with travellers is a visit to the marvelous Torghatten, a mountain with a distinctive hole running straight through the hillside. Also of interest  is the Skarsasen fortress from WWII. Trenches and tunnels lead underground from the four large cannon sites. Fjord Seafood originated here, as well as the largest limestone mine in Northern Europe.

Bodo is the second largest city in Northern Norway. Its beautiful scenery and natural surroundings offer visitors excellent outdoor activities. Travellers can go hiking, and cycling though the idyllic countryside and watch sea eagles. Bodo also offers excellent fishing for those wishing to explore rivers or lakes populated with high quality trout and salmon.  In this varied coastal landscape visitors will find everything from sheer mountain faces and white, sandy beaches, to charming farming communities.

Destination Guide

Stamsund is located in the northwestern region of Norway, and belongs to the Lofoten archipelago. The small fishing village is home to a population of 1,023 inhabitants. Stamsund hosts two theatre groups that cannot be missed when visiting this charming destination, aside from this it holds International theatre festivals that bring in plenty of visitors during its celebrations period.

Svolvaer is the main town of the Lofoten Islands in northern Norway. It is on the southern coast of Ostvagoya, the easternmost island of the group. The rugged and bleak countryside around Svolvaer has attracted both tourists and artists, and the town has become something of an artists' colony.

Sortland is a municipality in Nordland County belonging to Norway. Sortland has approximately 9,900 inhabitants currently living in the city. It is now referred to as “The Blue City”, due to a large amount of building around the downtown area being painted blue by its citizens. This destination is known to be one of the best music communities in Norway and has had many local bands that have been very successful in the industry.

The small town of Harstad, 75 miles northwest of Narvik, sits surrounded by craggy, snow-topped mountains on the island of Hinnøya. Harstad’s greatest attraction is the Trondenes Church which dates back to the 13th century. This structure was originally built as a fortress church; its design incorporates massive walls, some 7 1/2 feet thick. At the time, Trondenes was also Norway’s northernmost stone church and one of the most important in the country during Roman Catholic times. As early as the Viking Age the church was used as a local gathering place, including the meetings of the Ting (local parliament). Serving as the breadbasket for northern Norway, this region provides seasonal fruits and vegetables for nearby marketplaces. Harstad’s pretty setting with hilly streets, rainbow-colored wooden houses, terraces and views of the mountains is especially appreciated by the summer crowd which flocks here to enjoy the North Norwegian Arts Festival and International Deep-Sea Fishing Festival, usually held in June and July.

Enjoy the appealing frontier atmosphere at this ancient whaling capital and base for expeditions to the North Pole.

Destination Guide

Hammerfest, the world's northern-most city with a population of 7,000 residents, is located in the wide but calm bay of the Province of Finnmark. The North Atlantic Gulf Stream provides the city with an ice free port all year round. Hammerfest's short distance from the North Cape makes it an attractive destination to tourists. Like Tromso, Hammerfest became a major location for the start or end of arctic expeditions in the 19th century. In 1890, the town was one of the first in Europe to provide electric street lighting. Of course, the sun's disappearance from the sky during the arctic winter from November through February may have contributed to this distinction. Today the main street shops of this interesting trawler port offer a friendly welcome, and the drily -named 'Polar Bear Club' provides intriguing insights into Arctic history and tradition.

Destination Guide

The world's northernmost village, Honningsvag, the gateway to the North Cape, is a completely modern fishing harbor set in a land of forests, fjord waters, and crashing waterfalls, everything bathed in summer by the eerie light of the midnight sun. Only the chapel withstood the German destruction of 1944. It's some 50 miles nearer to the North Pole than Hammerfest, on the Alta-Hammerfest bus route.

Destination Guide

Destination Guide