Bermuda isn’t just about stunning pink beaches and clear turquoise waters. Its rich colonial history and military heritage make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. Imagine walking through centuries-old churches and fortifications, or learning about Bermuda’s role in global events from knowledgeable guides. We love how many tours mix storytelling with hands-on experiences, like visiting historic forts or exploring the town’s architecture on foot. Whether you’re drawn to military history, African diaspora sites, or colonial landmarks, Bermuda has a way of bringing its past alive in ways that are engaging and authentic.
In this list, you’ll find a variety of options—guided walking tours, private boat trips, and even eBike adventures—each offering a unique slice of Bermuda’s history. For example, the Private Guided Tour of Fortifications stands out for its detailed exploration of eight forts, perfect for militaria fans, while the Discover St. George’s History Walking Tour offers a compact, immersive stroll through Bermuda’s oldest town. Whatever your interest or time constraints, these tours make exploring Bermuda’s past both educational and fun.
1. Private Guided Tour of Historic Fortifications in St. George
At number 1 on our list, the Private Guided Tour of Fortifications provides a comprehensive look at Bermuda’s defensive history. Covering eight forts within about 3.5 hours, this tour is ideal for travelers who want to understand how Bermuda protected itself from invaders—especially during British rule. Led by a dedicated guide, you’ll visit iconic sites like Gates Fort, with its viewing platform, and Fort St. Catherine, featuring a drawbridge over a dry moat. The tour also includes exclusive access to the Unfinished Church, a Neo-Gothic ruin that looks like it’s from a different era.
One key advantage is the personalized touch—thanks to a private guide and vehicle—allowing for a flexible experience tailored to your interests. Several reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Bill make the history come alive, sharing details about Bermuda’s colonial defenses and military strategy. The tour’s value lies in its in-depth focus and the chance to step behind the scenes. It’s perfect for military history fans or anyone craving a deeper understanding of Bermuda’s strategic importance through the centuries.
Bottom Line: This private tour offers a detailed, flexible, and highly personalized dive into Bermuda’s fortifications—ideal for history lovers wanting an intimate experience.
2. Discover St. George’s History Walking Tour
Number 2 brings you the Discover St. George’s History Walking Tour, a 90-minute stroll through Bermuda’s oldest town. It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting a compact yet rich overview of the area’s historic landmarks. The tour takes in St. Peter’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in continuous use outside Britain, and the Tucker House Museum, which dates back to 1752. You’ll learn stories about colonial life, notable figures, and Bermuda’s African Diaspora Heritage Trail.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on architecture and storytelling—the guide shares details of Bermuda’s early settlement and its black history, providing context for today’s multicultural island. Reviews highlight how well-informed guides like Kristen make the stories engaging and accessible. It’s suitable for those on a short layover or anyone interested in Bermuda’s culture and architecture without committing to a full-day adventure.
Bottom Line: An engaging, historical introduction to Bermuda’s oldest town, perfect for curious travelers short on time but eager to learn.
3. Discover St. George’s History Beach and Ebicycle Tour – 3 Hours
For a more active approach, the Discover St. George’s Beach and Ebicycle Tour combines historical insights with scenic cycling. Starting from Ordnance Island, this 3-hour tour uses electric bicycles to explore the coastal scenery, secluded coves, and historic forts that surround St. George’s. The tour includes a visit to St. George’s Parish Church, Bermuda’s oldest Anglican church, and offers a chance to see some of the island’s most picturesque spots while learning about Bermuda’s colonial past.
The eBike makes covering more ground than walking possible, especially on Bermuda’s hilly terrain. Reviewers note how much fun it is to ride safely with guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly. This tour is especially suitable for active travelers who want both history and scenery in one experience, and for those eager to see Bermuda’s coast from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: Combining historical sites and coastal views, this tour offers a lively way to see Bermuda’s past and natural beauty in just three hours.
4. History With A Twist: Craft Cocktail & History Tour
Number 4 is the History With A Twist: Craft Cocktail & History Tour, blending Bermuda’s history with its famous spirits. For around $144, this two-hour experience combines visits to historic buildings like the Lili Bermuda Perfumery, with tastings of signature cocktails made with Gosling’s rum. The guide shares stories of Bermuda’s colonial past while you sip on drinks crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of storytelling and sensory experience—which makes Bermuda’s history come alive through its flavors. Several reviews mention the guide’s engaging storytelling and the chance to enjoy Bermuda’s famous dark ‘n’ stormy in historic settings. It’s suited for adults interested in local culture and spirits, or those seeking a more relaxed, social way to learn about Bermuda’s past.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a fun, flavorful twist on Bermuda’s history—ideal for those who like their history with a side of local spirits.
5. Historic St. George Tour
Number 5 is the Historic St. George Tour, a full-day 6.5-hour immersion into Bermuda’s earliest days. Starting with a drive past Smith’s Island and Carter House, you’ll visit the St. George’s Museum and St. Peter’s Church, among other landmarks. The highlights include viewing a settler’s cabben (a simple dwelling from 1612), exploring the Old Town, and walking through colonial-era sites.
What sets this tour apart is its depth and variety. You get a thorough look at Bermuda’s early settlement, architecture, and military history. The reviews praise the guide for full commentary and making history come alive, especially with visits to the Tucker House Museum and the St. George’s Historic Museum. It’s best suited for travelers with ample time and a genuine interest in Bermuda’s colonial roots.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history buffs wanting a comprehensive, full-day experience that covers the breadth of Bermuda’s early days.
6. Private Bermuda Historic Sightseeing Cruise With Swim Stops
Number 6 offers a different perspective with a Private Sightseeing Cruise. This 2-hour boat trip departs from Hamilton and cruises past historic shoreline sites, forts, and islands like Admiralty House Park. You’ll hear stories about Bermuda’s maritime past and early settlements, all while enjoying the scenic coast.
The highlight is the chance to stop for a swim in Paradise Lakes and explore caves along the shoreline, combining history with relaxation. The small group size and private nature make it a flexible, intimate experience. For those who prefer being on the water and want an overview of Bermuda’s maritime history, this trip hits the spot.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a relaxing, private boat trip with historic sights and swim stops along Bermuda’s coast.
$550.00 per group (up to 8)
7. Masonic & Heritage Private Tour of Olde St. George’s Bermuda
Coming in at number 7, the Masonic & Heritage Private Tour offers an exclusive look at Bermuda’s colonial and Masonic history. You’ll visit King’s Square, the Old State House, and get privileged access to the Old State House, home of the oldest Masonic Lodge in Bermuda, dating back to 1797. The tour includes a walk through St. Peter’s Church and visits to the St. George’s Historical Society Museum.
This tour stands out for its focus on Masonry’s influence on Bermuda’s history, making it particularly appealing for fraternal societies’ enthusiasts or those curious about secret societies’ role in colonial life. The guide’s storytelling is highly praised, and touring inside the Old State House adds a rare, insider perspective.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in Bermuda’s colonial governance, architecture, and fraternal history, offering a highly personalized experience.
$125.00 per person
8. Bermuda National Trust History Tour
Number 8 offers the Bermuda National Trust History Tour, a four-hour exploration of Bermuda’s historic homes and museums. It includes stops at Fort St. Catherine, Tucker House Museum, and the World Heritage Centre in St. George. The tour emphasizes Bermuda’s early colonial era and its role in world history.
While reviews are mixed, citing that the guide “brought Bermuda’s history to life,” the tour is best suited for travelers wanting a broad overview of Bermuda’s heritage sites with transportation included. It balances history, architecture, and local stories but may feel somewhat rushed for those wanting more depth at each site.
Bottom Line: Good for a broad but less in-depth look at Bermuda’s historic sites, especially if you prefer guided transportation and multiple stops.
$190.00 per person
9. African Diaspora Heritage Trail – 6.5 Hours
Number 9 is the African Diaspora Heritage Trail, which dives into Bermuda’s African heritage and slave history. Over 6.5 hours, you visit sites like Cobb’s Hill, Barber’s Alley, and St. Peter’s Church, with stories about slave voyages, emancipation, and black communities.
What makes this tour different is its focus on social history and culture, recognized by UNESCO’s Slave Route Project. It’s a powerful, sobering experience—more suited for travelers who want a meaningful understanding of Bermuda’s African descent and struggles. The reviews are sparse, but the significance of the sites makes it a memorable, educational journey.
Bottom Line: Heavy on cultural and social history, this tour is for travelers seeking a respectful, in-depth look at Bermuda’s African diaspora.
$165.00 per person
10. History, Culture, and Beauty of St. George’s Tour
Rounding out the list is the History, Culture, and Beauty of St. George’s Tour, an affordable, 3-hour bus excursion for those wanting a quick yet comprehensive taste of the UNESCO World Heritage town. Starting from Bermuda’s Visitor Services Centre, this tour covers colonial landmarks, shipwreck stories, and the coastal vistas of Bermuda.
While lacking reviews, it’s a practical option for budget-conscious travelers or those with limited time. The guided commentary about Bermuda’s early discovery and maritime significance makes it a good overview, especially for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, economical way to see Bermuda’s historic core from a comfortable bus with engaging stories.
$35.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Bermuda Historic Tour
When deciding which tour to book, consider your interests, time, and budget. Want an intimate, personalized experience? The private Fortifications or Masonic tours could be perfect. Looking for a quick overview? The St. George’s Walking Tour or Bus Tour fit well. For those interested in culture and social history, the African Diaspora Trail offers an important perspective.
If you’re short on time but want a fun, active experience, the E-bike Tour combines sightseeing with physical activity. For a luxury vibe and scenic views, the private Sightseeing Cruise offers both history and relaxation.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date and experience.
Bermuda’s history is as captivating as its beaches. Whether you want to walk through colonial towns, explore forts, or learn about the African diaspora, the tours here give you a meaningful way to discover the island’s stories. For a well-rounded visit, consider mixing a couple of these options—each reveals a different layer of Bermuda’s past. Happy exploring!