Walking Tour in Bergen of the Past and Present
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
No hidden fees
Guided walking tour of UNESCO World Heritage Bryggen
Guided walking tour of Bergenhus Fortress
Authorised Guide
Gratuities
Entrance into buildings & museums (the tour is outdoors only)
What To Expect
The Rosenkrantz Tower - Bymuseet I Bergen
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!
Haakon's Hall - Bymuseet i Bergen
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.
Options
German Language
Spanish Language
English Language
Reviews
1,471 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A great way to get to know Bergen
Caroline P,
Sep 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a fabulous tour giving you a background on Bergen, setting ourselves up for touring around afterwards. Jeff was excellent, very knowledgeable. Thank you
Bergen Look~See
Dan W,
Sep 18, 2025
- Viator
5.00A Walking Tour Not to Miss If you want to understand Bergen’s soul, this tour is essential. From the first cobblestoned steps, the city’s early history comes alive as you move from landmark to landmark. Our guide—a PhD whose expertise in this period was evident—wove centuries of stories into each stop, connecting ancient trade routes, Hanseatic merchants, and the dramatic rise of this coastal settlement. The pacing was perfect, allowing time to absorb the atmosphere while still feeling like an unfolding narrative. What could have been a simple stroll became a vivid journey through the city’s origins, enriched by the guide’s scholarly insight and passion for Bergen’s heritage. By the end, I felt not only informed but deeply connected to the city’s remarkable past.
Fantastic Walking Tour
Kristine K,
Sep 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00Anais was very knowledgeable and answered all of our questions in addition to the information she shared for the tour. We saw a lot of the main areas during the tour and were able to learn a lot about the history of the area. It was very worthwhile and a great introduction to Bergen.
Great tour
Katherine W,
Sep 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00Maria was excellent. She was knowledgeable, concise, had interesting facts and we really liked that she said at the beginning that she'd start with the history, then the food/culture based on the areas of town she was showing us. She said her accent might be hard for some to understand as she's Spanish, but we had no trouble understanding her. Great tour at the beginning of a Bergen trip to get a sense of the city. We tried the bakery she recommended, Kardemomme, and it was great!
Phenomenal Tour
Karen B,
Sep 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00Recommend you take this tour as soon as you arrive if possible. Great history and so knowledgeable and bonus great insights into sights and restaurants and other activities
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Operated by I Love Bergen