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
English Language
Spanish Language
German Language
Reviews
1,499 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
We love Bergen!
Xiomara T,
Oct 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00Erik was very nice and knowledgeable! Fun walking tour through the city center. If you are on a cruise and are able to walk I will recommend you this nice tour for some pretty pictures and very informative hints of the city.
Great Introduction to the city!
Jason W,
Oct 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00Jeff was an amazing guide. Great historical information in a small area of Bergen. Jeff was very helpful with suggestions on local restaurants and things to do.
Anais was a great guide -...
Julie S,
Sep 28, 2025
- Viator
4.00Anais was a great guide - so knowledgeable and fun. We all really enjoyed the walking tour and learnt heaps
Truly a master class!
Estela R,
Sep 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00My husband and I booked the Bergen Past and Present walking tour with Dane as our guide. The walking tour circumvented the touristy paths giving us the feeling of stepping back in time. Dane wowed us, not simply with his knowledge of facts but, with his knowledge of the significance and implications of historical events. We walked away with a far greater appreciation and understanding of Norwegian history, language, and culture. Dane clearly has a passion and unique talent for presenting in a way that is engaging and humorous. In short, Dane gave us a master class of the essential history of Bergen and beyond.
Great experience
Michael R,
Sep 26, 2025
- Viator
5.00Well worth it. We learned so much on the tour that we never would have learned on our own. It was time well spent.
Related Experiences
Operated by I Love Bergen