Bergen is a city where history meets breathtaking scenery, and it does a great job of showing off its charms through a variety of city tours. Whether you’re interested in walking through historic wooden streets, cruising along the fjord, or exploring with a private guide, Bergen delivers. We particularly like the Bergen City Cruise, which offers a relaxing water-level view of centuries-old architecture, and the Private Guided Tour that lets you customize your experience with an expert by your side. If you’re here for a quick visit or a longer stay, Bergen’s tour options give you a chance to see the city’s highlights and hidden corners alike. For example, the Bergen: City Tour on Foot (check it out here) provides a comprehensive, friendly introduction with passionate guides.
From scenic boat rides to private excursions and hop-on-hop-off buses, Bergen offers a variety of ways to explore. The choices range from budget-friendly options like the Bergen City Cruise (see details) to all-day private experiences (more info). Whatever your style, these tours ensure you don’t miss the best of this maritime city.
1. Bergen: City Tour on Foot
At number 1, this 2-hour walking tour offers an excellent introduction to Bergen’s most iconic sights. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, it covers Bryggen’s colorful Hanseatic buildings, St. Mary’s Church, the Fish Market, and the Sailor’s Monument. What sets this tour apart is its focus on the maritime charm of Bergen and the chance to see how locals live today. The tour includes multiple stops, such as Ole Bulls plass and Edvard Grieg’s statue, with plenty of photo opportunities. Reviewers highlight Martin’s expertise, calling him “friendly and very knowledgeable” with interesting stories. For just $28 per person, this tour packs in a lot of history and local flavor, making it perfect for first-timers or those short on time. The 50-minute Bryggen photo stop is a highlight, and finishing at St. Mary’s Church provides a peaceful end.
Bottom Line: A well-paced, affordable introduction that combines historical sights with lively Bergen ambiance.
2. City Walking Tour – Bergen On Foot
This 5-star rated tour (review link) is a 2-hour walk exploring Bergen’s most scenic streets and historic sites. It’s led by a professional guide who brings Bergen’s past and present to life. Highlights include the vibrant Våggen harbor, Bryggen’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the lively fish market. The guide also shares insights into current local life, making this a well-rounded experience. Guests love the combination of history and personal stories, and the tour ends at the Bergenhus fortress, giving you a great sense of the city’s strategic importance. At just over $29, it’s excellent value, especially given the personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a detailed, friendly walking tour that balances history and contemporary Bergen.
3. The influence of Bergen in Norway’s development, city tour
This 2-hour walking tour (see more) takes you through Bergen’s key sites, including Torgallmenningen Square and the Bergen Fish Market. It’s ideal if you’re interested in how Bergen shaped Norway’s history, especially as the former capital in medieval times. The guide discusses Bergen’s maritime trade, its role in the Hanseatic League, and modern developments. Guests appreciate the engaging storytelling and clear explanations. The tour also includes a walk through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district. For $43, this tour offers a focused insight into Bergen’s influence and evolution over centuries.
Bottom Line: An enriching, history-focused walk suited for travelers who want context along with sightseeing.
4. Bergen: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
If you prefer flexibility, the hop-on hop-off bus (check routes and tickets) offers a 1-day pass. It covers major attractions like Bergen Aquarium, the Hanseatic Museum, and Mount Fløyen, with commentary available in 8 languages. The buses run on a regular schedule, so you can explore at your own pace, hopping off for museums or scenic views and then catching the next bus. Reviewers praise the system’s convenience and the ability to see more in less time. The $49 ticket is a good investment if you want to maximize your visit with minimal walking, especially in inclement weather.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a flexible, seat-included way to see Bergen’s top sights comfortably.
$49 per person
5. Private guided tour – City sightseeing, Bergen’s top attractions
For a personalized experience, this 5-hour private tour (details here) allows you to customize your sightseeing with a local guide. The tour covers Bergen’s highlights like Bryggen, Mount Floyen, the Fantoft Stave Church, and Edvard Grieg’s villa. It’s perfect for travelers who want an intimate, flexible itinerary — your guide can adjust the stops based on your interests. Reviewers mention the guide’s extensive knowledge and friendly attitude, making it worth the $549.50 per person. The private setting means fewer crowds and more personalized tips.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a tailored, in-depth adventure in Bergen with expert guidance.
6. PRIVATE TOUR: Bergen city sightseeing, 3 hours
This 3-hour private tour (more info) is great if time is limited but you want a customized experience. Starting from Bergen’s historic center, your guide takes you to Bergenhus Fortress, the Fish Market, and Bryggen. The personalized approach allows you to include optional stops like Troldhaugen or Mount Ulriken if you prefer. Guests praise Vlad’s deep local knowledge and smooth driving, making the $542.83 fee a worthwhile investment for an exclusive overview. The quick pace is perfect for those on a tight schedule but still wanting to see Bergen’s highlights in comfort.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a personalized, efficient introduction to Bergen within a few hours.
7. PRIVATE TOUR: Bergen city sightseeing, 5 hours
For those with more time, this 5-hour adventure (see details) combines city highlights with optional visits to museums, Mount Floyen, and Fantoft Stave Church. Led by a knowledgeable guide, it’s perfect for deep-diving into Bergen’s culture and scenery. Reviewers note Vlad’s enthusiasm and flexibility, making this a top choice for an immersive experience. The $872.10 price covers up to 7 travelers, offering great value for a comprehensive private tour.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a full, customized Bergen experience with plenty of personal attention.
8. The influence of Bergen in Norway’s development, city tour
This 2-hour walking tour (see more) is designed to highlight Bergen’s role in shaping Norway’s history. Starting at the National Theatre, the guide explores locations like Torgallmenningen and the Fish Market, revealing how the city adapted over centuries. Guests appreciate the engaging narrative and focus on Bergen’s socio-cultural evolution. At $43.56, it offers a detailed, culturally enriching experience suited for history buffs or travelers wanting a deeper understanding of Bergen’s significance.
Bottom Line: A concise, insightful walk perfect for those interested in Bergen’s development.
How to Choose the Right Bergen Tour
When selecting your Bergen tour, consider how much time you have. If you want a quick overview, the walking tours like City Tour on Foot or Bergen On Foot are excellent. For more flexibility, the hop-on-hop-off bus (details here) is perfect. If your schedule allows, a private guide (see options) offers deeper personalization, especially if you want to visit beyond the city center, such as Mount Floyen or Fantoft Stave Church.
Budget-wise, the cruise (Bergen City Cruise) provides a scenic water perspective at an affordable price, while private tours provide a bespoke experience for those willing to spend more. Booking early ensures you secure your preferred time, especially during peak travel seasons.
Bergen’s tours offer a wide range of experiences—from lively walks and boat cruises to personalized private outings. For a quick, engaging introduction, the City Tour on Foot or Bergen On Foot provide excellent value. If you prefer a relaxing cruise, the City Cruise combines scenic views with cultural highlights. And for travelers wanting a truly customized adventure, private guides are unbeatable. Whatever you choose, Bergen’s unique blend of history, nature, and maritime charm makes it a city you’ll want to explore thoroughly—and early booking will help you get the most out of your trip.