Scenic Bergen: Port to Port History, Alleys, & Bryggen Walk

Bergen , Norway

Scenic Bergen: Port to Port History, Alleys, & Bryggen Walk

Active

(7 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is ideal for most cruise ship visitors, starting just 300 metres from the pier. Please check your cruise documents. Our guides are proudly local and authorised guides.

It begins at the iconic "Bird Wall" street art, marking the entrance to Nøstet, once Bergen's most dangerous area but now home to its best-preserved 300-year-old houses. Your guide will lead you through hidden alleys before heading to Nordnes, one of Norway’s prettiest neighbourhoods.

Descending into the medieval city centre, we pass the famous fish market, offering seafood tips, and wind through historic alleys now home to trendy shops and cafés. The tour continues to Bryggen, Bergen’s UNESCO-listed trading hub, where Norwegians and Germans have exchanged goods for 1,000 years. The tour concludes here, a perfect spot to explore museums, shop, or enjoy a meal while soaking in Bergen’s rich history.

Our goal is to combine history with everyday life providing insight into Bergen's past and present.

Available options

Scenic Bergen: Port to Port History, Alleys, & Bryggen Walk

What's included

Licenced, English-speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our tour begins at Nøstet, one of the most beautiful and historic neighbourhoods in Bergen. For many centuries, this neighbourhood was a rough sailor's quarters separate from the city of Bergen. Today it is recognised as being the best-preserved part of the city and is where you'll explore charming narrow alleys known only to locals. The area is characterized by narrow streets lined with colorful clapboard houses, reflecting Bergen's rich maritime heritage. Strolling through Nøstet provides a unique experience, as the neighbourhood has retained much of its original charm despite modern developments.

Stop 2

After exploring the sailor's quarters of Nøstet, you know head into the famous neighbourhood of Nordnes. Historically owned by a wealthy monastery, Nordnes developed in the 16th century as the direct competitors to the powerful Hanseatic League at Bryggen. It was also the site of crime and punishment, with Bergen's execution sites placed here. Today Nordnes prides itself on being a separate part of the city of Bergen despite only having 8,000 people living here. It is famous for its parks, narrow alleys, cafes, and fjord swimming. Here you'll learn about everyday life in Bergen - how much does a house cost? How does education work? Our expert guides will answer all the questions on your mind!

We now make our way to Bergen's famous fish market. Having stood here for around 1,000 years, this fish market is where you can see all the various types of seafood found on the west coast of Norway. Your guide will provide some recommendations so you can come back here for lunch!

Stop 4

Vågsbunnen is our favourite neighbourhood in Bergen! This medieval centre was where Dutch, English, Scottish and French traders lived in competition with the Hanseatic League, but is today known for its trendy bars and cafes. You'll wander down one of the best-preserved streets from medieval Bergen and squeeze through Bergen's narrowest street!

Now it's time to explore the most famous place in Bergen - Bryggen! Having stood in the city for approximately 1,000 years, Bryggen is the historic trading area of Bergen. It was famously operated by a group of German traders called the Hanseatic League, and is today on the UNESCO World Heritage List for being the best-preserved medieval pier in Northern Europe. Your tour also ends here, which is convenient for visiting museums, taking the funicular, or doing some shopping!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please meet us at the "Bird Wall" street artwork at the address Borgesmauet 4.

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