Bergen

Bergen is Norway's second city and the gateway to the western fjords, ringed by seven mountains around a harbour that has been busy since the Middle Ages. It was a trading post of the Hanseatic League, and the painted wooden buildings of Bryggen still tell that story; the wharf was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1979.

From the centre, the Fløibanen funicular climbs to the top of Mount Fløyen in about 6 minutes. The city, harbour and islands open out below, and easy paths between lakes and forest suit children. At the harbour fish market you can taste fresh salmon and prawns.

Bergen is the best base for day journeys to the Nærøyfjord, Flåm and its mountain railway, and to the Hardangerfjord, known for its orchards in blossom in spring. Expect rain: Bergen is one of Europe's wettest cities, and a light coat and umbrella let you enjoy it in any weather.