After my time in Oslo, I made my way over to the second stop of my trip: Bergen. To get there, I took the train, which was about 6.5 hours one way. I was so excited to take this train ride because it’s one of the most scenic routes — and the views did not disappoint!

I booked my ticket through Vy and it cost about $127/person for the seats we snagged. Both sides of the train will give you great views, but I was recommended to sit on the left side of the train going from Oslo to Bergen. I think the view was great, but I think you’d be fine with either option.

During the trip, I obviously had to snack on some lefse. I grew up eating the potato kind, so I was really excited to give the different types of lefse in Norway a try. Some of it was so different, but they were all delicious! The sugar and cinnamon (sukker og kanel) one was definitely my favorite of the two I ate on on the train ride.

Once I made it to Bergen, I was really excited to check out the Fløibanen, a funicular railway that takes you up to the top of Mt. Fløyen. I went up to the top right when it opened up for the day to try and avoid crowds, which mostly worked. While I was up there, I tried to go for a hike but the paths were pure ice. I was pretty much iceskating the entire time and decided to give it up after I nearly fell on my face for the third time. But the views were totally worth the trek up there. If you go during winter, be sure to pack Yaktrax.

Shopping

Bergen was hands down the most expensive place I visited simply because I went crazy with souvenirs. There were things that I have always wanted to buy while visiting Norway, so I had very specific things in mind. My big purchases were some Setesdalsgenser (Norwegian sweaters) for me and my family, and some silver.

For my sweaters, I went to Susan Fosse. The shop is located within Bryggen, which is a historical area with commercial buildings. It’s a really cute area and there are plenty of shops to take a peek at. The sweaters are definitely not super cheap, but they’re a nice quality and worth the price. It’s super comfortable and the one I bought has the classic clasps that I think of when I picture a Norwegian sweater.

I went to Arven to buy my silver. I was really excited to add to my collection because I have other pieces of Norwegian silver that my family gave to me, and to add to the collection was really special. Plus, they have a lot of second hand stuff for sale as well and I happened to find a few pieces that matched other collections I received from family.

Overall, Bergen was a really gorgeous city. I definitely see why so many people visit. It’s got plenty of things to do and the people were really nice. It was a great place for the second stop, but next up, I made my way up to the Arctic Circle to search for some Northern Light. I’ll say more about that in the next blog.