Under $100: Bergen, Norway

Norway is notoriously expensive, and Bergen is no exception. But budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy the best of this beguiling coastal city without spending a small fortune.

Start your day with a cup of espresso and pastries at one of Bergen’s many small cafes scattered throughout the city center. You’ll probably spend close to $10, but you’ll get to experience a bit of Norway’s café culture in the process.

Next, explore the old town on foot, from the Torget, the open-air fish market, to the Bryggen, the colorful, historic wooden warehouses fronting the harbor. Wander the charming, narrow lanes and take in the crooked buildings along Øvregaten Street and its offshoots. Check out the quaint timber houses along Lille Øvregaten, too, just as the city starts to wake up.

Consider purchasing the Bergen Card, which will set you back only $30 for a 24-hour pass. The card gets you discounted or free access to an array of museums and attractions; you’ll be able to visit the Bergen Aquarium, the Bergen Maritime Museum, the Bryggens Museum, the fascinating Leprosy Museum and the open-air Gamle Bergen historic area for free. You can also ride the Fløibanen Funicular (free with the Bergen Pass from October to April), which heads to the summit of Mount Fløyen for a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

Meals are where Bergen gets pretty pricey, but the fish market offers sandwiches and small plates for around $15. Café Opera is another good option for a light meal that will set you back only about $15, too. That leaves you around $40 for dinner, a bit tight, but restaurants like Boha, Bryggeloftet og Stuene and Naboen Restaurant will fit the bill.