According to forum posts, the Norway in a Nutshell tour is highly recommended for its comprehensive exploration of Norway's fjord scenery. This tour is available year-round and is favored for its flexibility and the inclusion of significant landmarks and natural beauty.

Some travelers mentioned other fjord trips from Bergen like the Mostraumen cruise, which is a shorter alternative offering scenic views of the fjords. Additionally, the Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord are suggested for day tours, with Hardangerfjord being particularly noted for its beautiful apple blossoms in late May.

For those looking for a unique experience, the express boat from Bergen to Flåm followed by a Nærøyfjord cruise and Stegastein tour was recommended. This option allows tourists to experience stunning fjord views and visit key attractions along the way.

According to forum posts, the Bergen Light Rail (Bybanen) operates from the airport to the city center, with services starting as early as 05:10 AM on Sundays. The journey takes approximately one hour and is considered a cost-effective option.

Forum users have mentioned the Flybussen as a reliable bus service from Bergen airport to the city center. The first bus can depart as early as 04:30 AM on weekdays, arriving at the airport by 04:55 AM. This service is noted for its convenience, with stops at major hotels.

Travelers have suggested taxis as a safe but more expensive alternative. Taxis are available at all hours, and services like Bergen Taxi can be booked in advance. There is no specific mention of Uber or Lyft availability directly from the posts.

Multiple users emphasize the overall safety of all transportation options from Bergen airport to the city center.

Some travelers recommended the Ole Bull Apartments and Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekontoret in Bergen. Ole Bull is noted for its central location, though it can be noisy on weekends. The Clarion Collection Hotel Havnekontoret is praised for its grand style, excellent breakfast, and inclusion of a light evening meal, which helps offset the generally high cost of meals in Norway.

According to forum posts, the Thon Hotel Orion is favored for its central location next to Bryggen, comprehensive breakfast options, and reasonable pricing. It offers a good view and has been described as providing excellent value. Another option, the Grand Hotel Terminus, is recognized for its historical charm, though some rooms might need updating.

Travelers have called out VRBO as an alternative platform for finding holiday rentals, suggesting it as a safe option aside from the commonly used Airbnb. This could be a useful avenue for those looking to explore different accommodation types in Bergen.

Some travelers mentioned specific local car rental options in Bergen, such as Rent-A-Wreck and Bergen Bruktbilutleie. However, feedback indicates that these might not offer significant savings compared to international brands, and locations could be inconvenient.

For many users, international car rental companies like Avis, Hertz, and Sixt are reliable options available at Bergen Airport. These companies are known for their straightforward service but can be expensive, especially during high seasons like June, where prices can reach around $150/day for the cheapest car with automatic transmission.

According to forum posts, for those staying in the city center of Bergen, renting a car might not be necessary due to the compact nature of the city. Public transport or walking is suggested as a more suitable way to navigate within the city. For exploring outside Bergen, renting a car from the airport after arrival is recommended to avoid parking fees in the city.

According to forum posts, Norway in a Nutshell (NiN) is generally preferred over the Sognefjord tours by many users. Travelers have cited that NiN offers a more varied and dramatic experience, particularly because it includes the scenic Nærøyfjord, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Some travelers noted that the Norway in a Nutshell route allows for a slow cruise along the narrow Nærøyfjord canyon with both deck and indoor seating that enhances the sightseeing experience. In contrast, the Sognefjord tours, specifically the Sognefjord in a Nutshell, often involve a 5 1/2-hour ride on a high-speed catamaran, which might limit outdoor deck access due to wind and cold.

Travelers have called out that the express boats used in the Sognefjord tours are more focused on transportation rather than sightseeing, which could detract from the overall experience if one is looking to enjoy the scenery leisurely. The more immersive and slower-paced sightseeing options available in NiN are often highlighted as more favorable.

According to forum posts, the Norway in a Nutshell tour is highly recommended for exploring the fjords starting from Bergen. Some travelers suggest opting for the smaller loop via Gudvangen as it offers a more varied experience despite involving more changes in transport.

For many users, the tour efficiently combines train, bus, and boat segments, which allows for an immersive experience of Norway's scenic landscapes without the hassle of driving and navigating unfamiliar roads. However, travelers have called out the importance of managing luggage as there are no luggage assistance services available during the various legs of the trip.

Some travelers recommend booking accommodations in the central areas of Bergen if the trip starts and ends there. This provides ease of access to transportation links and minimizes travel time within the city.

For those interested in an extended experience, forum posts suggest considering additional sightseeing spots and routes such as the Stegastein viewpoint and the Aurlandsfjellet Snow Road for their scenic views. These routes, however, require careful time management due to their narrow and winding nature.

According to forum posts, Bergen's weather is generally unpredictable throughout the year, with a tendency toward rain. Winters can be cold, with possible snow and frost, especially from December through February. Spring is less rainy, but still chilly and variable.

Travelers have mentioned that activities like fjord tours are available year-round, including in the winter months. However, specific outdoor activities like snowshoeing might not always be possible in Bergen during winter due to its milder climate compared to other parts of Norway.

Some users noted that Bergen is lively during the Christmas season, with restaurants and bars open and a bustling atmosphere due to holiday celebrations. Conversely, early December and late winter might not be the ideal times for sightseeing due to short daylight hours and generally wet weather.