Historic Nordnes Neighbourhood: Crime, Witches & Seafarers Bergen: Nordnes Historic Guided Walking Tour with Stories

Explore the historic neighbourhood of Nordnes in Bergen. This neighbourhood grew in the 16th century as a neighbourhood for seafarers, but was also a place of crime and punishment.
Come explore historic Nordnes with us! Nordnes is a 1km (0.6 mi) long peninsula that stretches out into the Bergen Harbour. Nordnes is a neighbourhood defined by religion, merchants, and the court. Originally home to the Munkeliv Monastery (as far back as the 12th century), after the Reformation the area was laid out as a new neighbourhood for the Norwegian merchants competing with the Hanseatic League on Bryggen. On the side facing Bryggen, wealthy homes grew along the waterfront, where goods from all over Europe and Norway were being traded. At the end of the peninsula, Bergen’s oldest execution site and courthouse stood. It is also the site of Bergen’s witchcraft trials – a monument stands on the site today. On the other side of the peninsula, a working-class sailor’s district grew. Beer was consumed every day; in the nooks and crannies were over 300 inns. This side of the peninsula is today regarded as one of the best-preserved neighbourhoods in Bergen, with houses dating from the 17th century.

This historic walk will give you stories that you won’t hear on a regular walking tour. We’ll also wander through the narrow alleys that only locals about. Here you will see some of the most photogenic spots in all of Bergen. While this is a history walk, we will also cover life in Bergen today – we will pass schools, parks, the Marine Research Institute, and places that give us an insight into everyday life. This area also has some of the city’s most popular cafes. Nordnes is also a residential neighbourhood, so we keep our group sizes small to not disturb the locals.

Nordnes is home to Bergen's oldest wooden houses and best-preserved cobblestone alleys, and on this walk you'll see some of the most photogenic spots in the city.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

Cancellation is not possible. If you cancel it anyway or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity and the money you paid will not be refunded.