The ferry from Aurland dropped us off in downtown Bergen that evening and we made our way to our hotel, Opus XVI, owned by relatives of composer Edvard Grieg. Bergen combines and old – UNESCO Bryggen Wharf – with a modern and vibrant downtown. Some highlights included:

• Bryggen Wharf: Established in 1360 as import/export offices of the Hanseatic League, this row of brightly colored buildings hugs the harbor and offers a unique view of the past.
• Floibanen funicular: This takes you up the mountain for spectacular views of the city and harbor as well as the resident goats.
• Vagsbunnen neighborhood
• Knosesmauet alleyway: full of charming shops
• Bryggeloftet restaurant: The oldest restaurant in Bergen

For our anniversary, my husband and I had a “meteorological dining experience” at Cornelius Sjomatrestaurant, which is located on an island about a 30-minute boat ride from the harbor. The owner dropped by our dining room to tell many amusing stories about the founding and early days of the restaurant and it served as inspiration for the 2022 movie, The Menu.

Our final day in Bergen we took a 3 1/2 hour boat ride through the Osterfjord and then boarded yet around boat, the Hurtigruten MS Trollifjord, for an overnight cruise to Alesund.