Walking Tour in Bergen of the Past and Present
Overview
Join authorised, local guides for an authentic, small-group experience around Bergen - both the city and off-the-beaten path.
The first half of our tour focuses on Bergen's history. We wander the fortress complex, covering Bergen’s medieval history and short period as Norway's capital. After this crash course in Norwegian history, we make our way to Bryggen, Bergen’s UNESCO Site. Here, you learn about 1,000 years of trade history and the reason for Bergen’s founding and growth.
The second half of our tour is about life in Bergen. We leave the ‘touristy’ part behind and wander into the neighbourhood surrounding Bryggen. As you explore Bergen’s best kept secret, you’ll learn about everyday life. The tour ends by passing by our top picks for restaurants.
We consider this a moderate walk with stairs. The walk is approximately 3km (2 miles).
Once you book, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details — including where to meet, what to wear, and our contact info.
What you’ll do
Our tour begins by visiting the Bergen Fortress. When Bergen was the capital, this is where the palace was located. It's the best spot to start a walking tour!
We pass by Håkon's Hall, the major part of the medieval palace still standing today. Here you learn about Bergen's time as an independent country and we also explain Norway's unions with Denmark and Sweden.
Please note that we do not enter Håkons Hall (it is a museum that costs money).
On rare occasions, the fortress is closed due to a private event.
After learning about our royal past, we make our way into Bryggen. Bryggen is Bergen's UNESCO World Heritage-site and is where merchants have traded for 1000 years. It was made successful primarily by the Hanseatic League (the Hanse), a group of German merchants. We spend our time here learning about the Hanseatic League, their trading methods and systems, and how Bryggen functioned as a wharf.
Please note we do not go in any of these buildings. They are all shops and small businesses today - none are museums.
Our last point in historical Bergen is St. Mary's Church, the oldest still standing building in the city. It was constructed in the 12th century and still functions as a church today.
From €35
Book on Viator