Escape to the Fjords: A Magical Trip to Bergen, Norway

The first thing that struck me as I arrived in Bergen was the incredible natural beauty that surrounds the city. Nestled between seven mountains and the sea, it's a place where nature takes center stage. One of the highlights was taking the Fløibanen funicular railway up to Mount Fløyen, which offers breathtaking views over the city and its famous colorful houses and wharves.

Speaking of those iconic houses, no visit to Bergen is complete without wandering through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bryggen. This historic wharf area with its tightly packed wooden buildings and alleyways is like stepping back in time. I spent hours getting lost in its maze of cobblestone streets, popping into cozy cafes like Det Lille Kaffekompaniet for a warm beverage and one of their famous pastries.

Of course, being a coastal city, seafood is king in Bergen. I had some of the freshest and most delicious fish and shellfish of my life at places like Fjellskål Seafood Restaurant and Bernard Torghandel AS. The latter is a must-visit - you can watch the chefs prepare your meal with ingredients straight from the nearby harbor. For a truly unique experience, I took a short boat ride to Cornelius Sjømatrestaurant on a nearby island for what is regarded as Norway's best "fjord to table" dining.

For non-seafood meals, I got some great local recommendations. Plassen served up delicious open-faced sandwiches that Norwegians are known for. Damsgårdstuene is an authentic spot for trying the traditional pinnekjøtt (lamb ribs). And for something a bit more upscale, Marg & Bein focuses on seasonal Norwegian ingredients in an innovative way. For an unforgettable fine dining experience, Iris offers creative Nordic cuisine served in the form of an "orb" - dishes are presented inside a wooden sphere that opens to reveal the artfully plated meal. Søstrene Hagelin is a famous seafood eatery that's been around since the 1920s, perfect for classic Norwegian fish dishes like klippfisk. Even Trekroneren, an unassuming hot dog stand, is a must-visit for their delicious "weenies" that have a cult following.

No trip to Bergen would be complete without experiencing some of the lively bar scene. Some favorites included the cozy No Stress Bergen, the quirky Lampemannen Bar, and the always-buzzing Apollon Platebar. For a fun night out, {lucky} had a great vibe with DJs and dancing. LAST Monkey has creative cocktails and a funky atmosphere. For a truly unique drinking experience, head to Sjøboden right on the waterfront - this historic wooden boathouse has amazing views.

While Bergen has so much to offer in terms of food, culture, and nightlife, I also made sure to get out and experience the incredible natural surroundings. A day trip up to the Beitostølen Resort allowed me to try raft sledding - careening down the mountain strapped to a small raft! It was an adrenaline rush I'll never forget. I also took a cruise through the fjords to appreciate their majesty from the water. The Trasti & Trine area is known as a good spot for potentially viewing the northern lights.

All in all, my trip to Bergen was everything I had dreamed of and more. Between the fresh seafood, historic charm, lively cultural scene, and easy access to outdoor adventures, it's a place that should be on every traveler's radar. I know I'll definitely be back to further explore this Norwegian gem. If you get the chance to visit, here are a few tips:

• Pack layers and rain gear, as the weather can be changeable

• Make dinner reservations in advance for popular spot

• Buy a Bergen Card for free public transit and entry to museums

• Check the forecast for potential Northern Lights viewings

Safe travels and "god tur" to anyone headed to beautiful Bergen!