Northern Lights and the Arctic Circle

Now an international tourist centre and gateway to the famously beautiful fjords, Bergen once served as the capital of medieval Norway.

Situated among seven hills that form a delightful backdrop along the waterfront, Bergen is one of Norway's most enjoyable cities. It became a major trading port during the middle ages and to this day, the hub of the city's social life is around the Torget, the picturesque harbour-side market plaza surrounded by an assortment of cafes, restaurants, and pubs, and home to the vibrant fish market.

A cable car and a funicular carry visitors to the top of two of Bergen's hills, Mount Ulriken and Mount Floyen, to enjoy splendid views over the city and coast. Mount Floyen is covered in forest with a well-marked series of walking trails. Boat trips to the fjords are very popular and many cruises depart from Bergen's port into the gorgeous waterways that network the region.

A breathtakingly beautiful city situated on the Ofotfjord in northern Norway, Narvik is surrounded by soaring mountains, glistening fjords, and pristine landscapes.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Narvik is from the water. Boat tours operated from the old harbour located in the heart of the city offer incredibly gorgeous views that cannot be seen from land. As you cruise along, you’ll be awe-struck by the magnificent views of snow-capped mountains, plunging cascades, and lush green valleys.

The city of Narvik is also home to a wealth of cultural attractions, including the Narvik War Museum which chronicles the storied history of the area during World War II. Other nearby sights include the Narvik Church, where visitors can view beautiful stained glass windows, and the Polar Zoo, which houses numerous species of Arctic animals such as reindeer, wolverines, and snow owls.

When it comes to food and drinks, visitors to Narvik will not be disappointed. The city boasts some excellent restaurants serving up traditional dishes such as cod stew, fresh seafood and reindeer meatballs. For those with a sweet tooth, there are plenty of bakeries and cafes from which to choose. The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with pubs and bars staying open until the wee hours of the morning.

Set in a magnificent landscape of dramatic snow-capped mountains with a rocky shoreline, Tromsø is a lively town characterised by unusual old wooden houses street music cultural events and the most pubs per capita in Norway. It is the capital of the north and a bustling metropolis in comparison to the surrounding fishing communities along the northern coast of Norway; it is also a vibrant university town.

Known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic' and situated within the Arctic Circle, the town is an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding area and has some of the greatest Northern Light activity on earth making it a sought-after tourist destination from which to experience the spectacular show of the Aurora Borealis.

Honningsvag is a charming town located in the northernmost part of Norway, in the region of Finnmark. It is renowned for being the gateway to the iconic North Cape, also known as the Nordkapp, which is Europe's northernmost point. Honningsvag offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the Arctic landscape and experience the midnight sun during the summer months.

One of the main attractions of Honningsvag is undoubtedly the North Cape. Standing 307 meters above the Arctic Ocean, this dramatic cliff offers breathtaking views of the vast sea and the rugged coastline. Many visitors choose to hike or cycle to the North Cape, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. At the top, you can visit the North Cape Hall, which houses a visitor center, a gift shop, and a restaurant. Don't miss the opportunity to take a commemorative photo at the iconic globe monument, marking the northernmost point of Europe.

Aside from the North Cape, Honningsvag offers a range of activities and attractions that showcase the unique culture and natural beauty of the region. The town itself is a picturesque fishing village, with colourful houses and a bustling harbor. Take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the fishing boats, or visit the local fish market to sample some of the freshest seafood in Norway.

Alta is a captivating destination nestled in the northernmost region of Norway. Known for its Arctic charm and stunning natural landscapes, Alta offers a unique blend of wilderness and modern amenities. The town is renowned for its mesmerizing Northern Lights displays, attracting visitors from all over the world. In addition to the celestial spectacle, Alta boasts a rich Sami culture and heritage, evident in its museums, handicrafts, and traditional events. Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted by the myriad of activities available, including hiking, skiing, and dog sledding amidst the breathtaking fjords and mountains. With its friendly locals, breathtaking views, and a perfect harmony of nature and culture, Alta promises an unforgettable and authentic Arctic experience.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking cityscape, you’ll find it in Ålesund. This Norwegian city is located on the country’s west coast, and it is known for its Art Nouveau architecture. That’s right – the buildings in Ålesund were designed in the early 1900s in the Art Nouveau style, and they are truly a sight to behold.

In addition to its interesting architecture, Ålesund is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The city is located right on the water, so there are plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, and sailing. And, if you’re looking for a challenge, you can hike up one of the nearby mountains – Sukkertoppen, for example, offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding fjords.

Whether you’re interested in architecture, outdoor activities, or simply want to enjoy the beauty of Norway, you’ll find it in Ålesund.

After two weeks of exploring some of Europe's most idyllic scenery, you'll dock in Portsmouth, bringing your Saga journey to a close.

But you'll still have a little more time to relax, as return chauffeur transport is included as standard with all Saga bookings.