Bergen: A Walk Through Past and Present

Bergen is the second-largest city in Norway and is the second-largest port in the country. It’s located on the country’s southwestern coast and has long been a hub for commerce and culture. As one of Europe’s oldest cities, it has a long, rich history that can be explored by taking a walk through its streets and buildings. In addition, there’s also plenty of modern attractions to explore, making Bergen an excellent destination for a sightseeing-focused vacation.

Learn About the City’s Slippery History with a Fishing and Transport Tour

A great way to dive right into Bergen’s rich history is to take a Fishing and Transport Tour. On this tour, you’ll be taken back in time to experience some of the traditional ways of fishing that the city is famous for. You’ll visit a salmon river, learn about the techniques used to catch fish, and see some of the tools and equipment used over the centuries. Plus, you’ll also be taken through some of Bergen’s old buildings to see how the locals lived and worked in days gone by. It’s a unique way of uncovering the city’s history that even locals don’t often know about.

Let Bergen’s Colorful Fjords Take You on a Journey

Bergen is known for its spectacular fjords, so it would be a crime not to explore them while you’re in town. There are many different ways to do so — whether you want to hop on a boat tour, take a drive up the fjords, or simply take a stroll along their charming slopes — it’s truly a sight to behold. The best way to truly appreciate their beauty is by taking part in a guided tour, especially one that allows you to explore the innermost parts of the fjords, like Bergen’s really interesting and unique Sognefjord Tours.

Experience Everyday Life from Times Gone By at the Bryggen Wharf

The Bryggen Wharf is one of the most iconic sights in Bergen, with its colorful row of wooden buildings right next to the harbor. This was once the center of commercial activity in Bergen, and it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its importance in the city’s history. While there, you can learn all about the history of commerce and industry in this area, as well as ways of life from centuries past. Plus, it’s also home to some cute shops, cafes, and restaurants today, so you can relax and enjoy some modern-day pleasures after you’ve explored.

Discover Your Norwegian Roots (or Immerse Yourself) at the Bergen Museum

We all have different roots and getting to know them can be an amazing experience. Bergen has its own museum dedicated to people of Norwegian descent or those who are interested in learning about Norwegian culture. The Bergen Museum offers a wealth of information about the history, culture, customs, and language of Norway. Plus, you can also view some of Norway’s hundreds of artifacts from ancient settlements around Europe, as well as unique items from its vibrant Viking Age. This is a great place to get an insight into your Norwegian roots or simply delve into this fascinating chapter of history.

Take Part in Local Festivals and Events

Bergen is home to some fabulous festivals and events throughout the year, so it would be silly not to try and catch at least one while you’re here. Each season brings something new, from incredible street parades celebrating traditional rituals like Høstfest (Autumn Festival) to snow-laden attractions like Skifest (Snow Festival). These festivals offer up plenty of opportunities to chat with local people and soak up some of their unique customs and culture.

Visit Gamle Bergen Open Air Museum for Classic Norwegian Culture

If you really want to experience Norwegian culture in all its glory, then a visit to Gamle Bergen Open Air Museum is an absolute must-do. Here you can travel back centuries to learn about traditional ways of life in Norway through reconstructions of old buildings from various points in history. You can also pick up traditional handicraft items made by local artists or indulging in some coffee and home baking in the museum restaurant.

Visit Bergenhus Fortress for a Detailed Look at Historical Monuments

Continuing on with your historical exploration research must-see destination is Bergenhus Fortress. This old fortress is still standing after 500 years and is home to some fantastic monuments, including King Haakon’s Hall, Rosenkrantz Tower, and parts of an old medieval church. It’s a fantastic place to learn about Bergen’s history through its monuments and explore the fortress grounds on a guided tour or independently.

Immerse Yourself in Nature with a Trip to Ulriken Mountain

Bergen is blessed with some beautiful natural scenery too. Nearby Ulriken Mountain offers spectacular views out over the city and Fjords below. The best thing to do here is take off on a hiking trail or climb up Ulriken tower for an even better look at stunning Bergen below. It’s definitely a worthwhile activity that can be enjoyed during any season — even winter offers some unique views up here.

Jump on a City Sightseeing Bus For A Quick Overview

If you don’t have much time or simply just want an overview of the sights around Bergen then you can catch a City Sightseeing Bus tour. The buses are very comfortable, narrated by tour guides and offer great value for money — with excellent panoramic views no matter where you are on the route. Take your time getting off at various stops and then jump back on your selected bus route anytime throughout the day — no prior planning required here!

Conclusion

Bergen is an amazing city with plenty to do throughout its varied past and present era. From catching a Fishing and Transport Tour to marveling at historical monuments at Bergenhus Fortress or scaling Ulriken mountain to get unrivaled views — it really does have something for everyone. Plus, it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg either; all of these experiences can be enjoyed without breaking your budget too much.

If all that walking gets you feeling tempted for something more active Book your ticket now with GetYourGuide and explore Bergen like never before.