Walking Tour in Bergen of the Past and Present

Bergen , Norway

Walking Tour in Bergen of the Past and Present

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(1531 reviews)

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

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About this experience

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.

Available options

English Language

Spanish Language

German Language

What's included

No hidden fees

Guided walking tour of UNESCO World Heritage Bryggen

Guided walking tour of Bergenhus Fortress

Authorised Guide

Detailed itinerary

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.

Please note we do not go inside the church as it has a separate admission fee.

Stop 5

After the history part, we head up-hill into the district Fjellsiden, which is a well-preserved area of wooden hours. We'll discuss everyday life in Norway, including what we eat, when we work, what a house costs, our taxes, and so on :)

The route depends on your guide and their own interests. We pride ourselves on being a tour by locals showing local spots, so we choose the best route based on our interests.

Stop 6 Pass by

We pass by the funicular station so you can know where it is. Here we talk about outdoor life and the importance of hiking
culture in Norway.

Note that we do not take the funicular! It would add an extra hour and 150 NOK to the trip. Also, it's best you go up at leisure. Maybe you want to go up for the sunset? Or maybe you want to go up to go hiking?

Stop 7

The last twenty minutes of this walk is spent discussing modern Bergen and our food culture. Bergen is, after all, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy! We make our way into the old town centre, walking along Skostredet - a popular street for restaurants.

We finish outside the fish market/tourist office in Bergen.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entrance into buildings & museums (the tour is outdoors only)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

502 reviews

5★

459

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

1,029 reviews

5★

975

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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 address Bradbenken 1, a brick office building next to the entrance to the fortress. We stand on the side of the building facing the harbour. Your guide will be holding a sign with the tour name on it. The guide will be standing there 10 minutes before the tour starts.

Important notes

Thanks for your booking! Please read this information carefully.

MEETING POINT:
The tour begins at Bradbenken 1. You must be there at least 10 minutes before the tour start time. We are not obligated to contact you if you are late; it is your responsibility to tell us. If you are late, wait at the meeting point and contact us. We cancel all bookings more than 20 minutes late.

The tour ends at the fish market/tourist office.

WALKING GRADE:
This walk is moderate, and you will be walking on cobblestone. There are 2-3 flights of stairs (up-hill) on this tour. We walk approx. 3km (2 miles) in 2 hours.

CRUISE SHIP PASSENGERS:
Some cruise ships dock in the city centre (5-10 mins from our meeting point), while others dock out of the city centre (20-25 mins from our meeting point).

We have a cruise port map on our FAQ page as well as up-to-date information on where all the cruise ships are docking. Please check here: http://ilovebergen.net/faq

CANCELLATIONS & REFUND POLICY
We do not cancel the tour due to rain.

You can cancel and be fully refunded up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

If you wish to cancel within 24 hours of the tour taking place, you will not be refunded. This is Viator's policy so we can't make exceptions (we get penalised if we cancel those tours).

If you wish to move tours, we are unable to do that within 24 hours of the tour taking place. If you do want to move within 24 hours, we'll charge a 50% rebooking fee.

CONTACT US:
We are open 9am – 6pm every day and can be contacted via WhatsApp (+47 940 54 465) and email (bookings@thehiddennorth.com). Please only call us in an emergency (we are often out on a tour and can’t pick up the phone).

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