In his Norway book, Steve says cruise ship passengers mob the Bergen waterfront between 10:00-15:00. He suggests doing an outlying activity during those hours. He specifically gives as examples Gamle Bergen or Edvard Grieg's Home. My question is: What other activities would work well during that time? How about Fantoft Stave Church? What about the Funicular? And how about Ulriken643 Cable Car? Or do cruise ship shore excursions visit those places? Thank you?
Posted by
Ajijic, Jalisco, Mexico
1927 posts
I was in Bergen last month for 2 1/2 days, and it's true that the passengers do overwhelm the small waterfront area.
The Fløibanen (funicular up to Mt. Fløyen) is one of the very popular activities. I went up there early (before the cruise passengers were there) and by the time I descended (shortly after 10:00) it was already getting very crowded. I'm not sure about the other activities you asked about, as I didn't go to the stave church or ride the Ulriken cable car.
If you don't mind hills, Bergen is a delightful city to walk around, and once you get away from the waterfront, you won't encounter tons of tourists. Enjoy the waterfront later in the afternoon and into the evening, and you'll be fine.
You might also look into one of the many day trips by boat. They range from a few hours to most of a full day, so what you decide would depend on how long you will be there.
Have fun!