Bergen's Landmarks and History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Bergen , Norway

Bergen's Landmarks and History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

(22 reviews)

45m - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Are you looking for a way to see Bergen without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable walking tour.

• Find out about the fjord that became a lake and the 400-year-long night while strolling through the city centre
• Hear from producer Antonio De Comite, founder of Måke Tours, a tour company in Norway
• Do it all in an hour or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish
• Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it
• Use the virtual tour option at home

Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code.

The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn-by-turn directions. It also works offline.

Available options

Bergen's Landmarks and History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English

VoiceMap app for Android and iOS

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

On this walking tour through the small coastal city, I’ll bring its history to life. Our tour starts in front of the steel sculpture of King Olav Kyrre, where you’ll learn about the city’s origins, and how it gradually expanded.

Stop 2 Pass by

Bergen is a city that has worn many hats. It was once the medieval capital of the Kingdom of Norway, and it was Scandinavia’s commercial centre until the 1600s. The city is renowned for its UNESCO sites, its fish market, and its seven surrounding mountains. It’s also been called ‘the gateway to the fjords’. On this walking tour through the small coastal city, I’ll bring its history to life.

Enjoying a leisurely walk through Festplassen Plaza, a popular square.

Stop 4 Pass by

You'll see the Statue of Christian Michelsen, a Norwegian national hero and politician.

Stop 5 Pass by

Enjoying a leisurely walk through city parks and popular squares like the Musikkpaviljongen (Music Pavilion).

You'll see Composer Edvard Grieg’s Statue and learn a bit about him while you walk.

You'll see the statue of famed violinist Ole Bull which stands proudly on top of a fountain.

You'll see the granite statue of distinguished playwright Henrik Ibsen.

Stop 9 Pass by

You’ll walk through the city centre, taking in important buildings like the National Theatre and the Bergen Cathedral.

While passing by the Gestapomuseet, I'll reveal the city’s darker history such as the Nazi occupation, and tell you about the only way that prisoners could escape from their torture rooms.

Stop 11 Pass by

Stroll down Torgallmenningen towards the Sailor's Monument.

You'll see one of the most respected landmarks in the city, the Sailor’s Monument, which celebrates Norwegian sailors, their efforts and adventures at sea.

On this tour, you'll have a chance to spot the 17th century cannonball embedded on the Cathedral façade.

Stop 14 Pass by

Discover the hippest area in the city, Skotstredet.

The audio tour ends in front of one of the city’s oldest statues which depicts writer and poet Ludvig Holberg.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food and drink

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

19 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note: You won't be guided through any museums or other attractions mentioned en route. If you choose to enter and visit such places, you'll need to pay for it independently of this tour.

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Bergen

Bergen is a picturesque city known for its stunning natural surroundings, vibrant cultural scene, and rich maritime heritage. Nestled between seven mountains and the North Sea, it offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, historic charm, and modern Norwegian lifestyle.

Top Attractions

Bryggen

Bryggen is a historic wharf and UNESCO World Heritage site featuring colorful wooden houses dating back to the Hanseatic League era.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, museums may charge entry

Fløyen

Fløyen is one of Bergen's seven mountains, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding fjords. Accessible by funicular or hiking.

Nature 2-3 hours NOK 100 for funicular ride (free for hiking)

Bergen Aquarium

A family-friendly attraction showcasing marine life from the Norwegian coast and beyond, including penguins, seals, and a variety of fish.

Nature 2-3 hours NOK 250-300

Fish Market (Fisketorget)

A bustling market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Norwegian delicacies. A must-visit for food lovers.

Cultural 1 hour Free to explore, prices vary for food and souvenirs

Troldhaugen

The former home of the famous composer Edvard Grieg, now a museum offering insights into his life and work.

Historical 2-3 hours NOK 120-150

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fårikål

A traditional Norwegian stew made with lamb, cabbage, and spices. It's the national dish of Norway and a must-try for its hearty flavor.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Rakfisk

Fermented fish, typically trout or char, served with sour cream, onions, and flatbread. It's an acquired taste but a significant part of Norwegian culinary tradition.

Snack Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Klippfisk

Dried and salted cod, often rehydrated and served in various dishes. It's a staple in Norwegian cuisine and has a unique texture and flavor.

Dinner Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Brunost

A brown, caramel-like cheese made from a mixture of goat's milk and cow's milk whey. It's often served on waffles or with fruit.

Dessert Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Kayaking Paragliding White-water rafting Coffee at a café Strolling through Bryggen Visiting the Fish Market

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with long daylight hours, pleasant temperatures, and numerous outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and events.

12°C to 20°C 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Norwegian
Widely spoken: English, German, Swedish, Danish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Bergen is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings
• Use licensed taxis

Getting there

By air

Bergen Airport, Flesland • 17 km from city center

By train

Bergen Station

By bus

Bergen Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Bergen. They are efficient, frequent, and cover most attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Bergen, InDriver

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bryggen Nordnes Strandkaiten Fjellveien

Day trips

Hardangerfjord

100 km from Bergen • Full day

Hardangerfjord is Norway's second-longest fjord, offering stunning landscapes, fruit orchards, and waterfalls. It's a perfect day trip for nature lovers and photographers.

Voss

80 km from Bergen • Half day to full day

Voss is a popular destination for outdoor activities, offering hiking, biking, and water sports. It's a great day trip for adventure enthusiasts.

Flam and the Flamsbana Railway

160 km from Bergen • Full day

Flam is a picturesque village known for its stunning fjord views and the famous Flamsbana Railway, one of the world's most scenic train journeys.

Festivals

Bergen International Festival • May Bergen Food Festival • August Bergen Jazz Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Fish Market early in the morning for the freshest seafood and a lively atmosphere
Take the Fløyen funicular or hike up for stunning views of the city and fjords
Explore the historic Bryggen wharf and its charming alleys and courtyards
Try traditional Norwegian dishes like fårikål and rakfisk for an authentic culinary experience
Use the Skyss app for public transport tickets and schedules to save time and money