Experience Norway's wonderful centuries-old sites and attractions during picturesque visits to historic Bergen, Troldhaugen and the remarkable Fantoft Stave Church.
Founded in 1066, Bergen was Norway's largest center for commerce and shipping until the 1830s, and home to the overseas trading offices of Hanseatic merchants for several centuries.
Your tour begins with a drive along Bryggen and the Hanseatic Pier, and the old wooden warehouses from the Hanseatic period. Continuing on through the city, you will make your way to the suburbs and Troldhaugen, the former home of Composer Edvard Grieg which lies near Nordasvannet. Grieg composed many of his most famous works at Troldhaugen and is buried there with his wife Nina. During your visit, you will have the chance to look at the villa, which stands exactly as it did in Edvard Grieg's days, and time-permitting, perhaps a stroll in the garden where you will find his studio.
Next, you'll proceed to Fantoft Church, an old stave church built at Fortun in Sogn in 1150, and moved to Fantoft in 1883. After being destroyed by fire in 1992, the church was restored to its original glory. The new church is constructed exactly like the one which was built in the Middle Ages, using timber from the Sognefjord area and forests north of Bergen. In the middle Ages there were at least 800 of these very typical churches in Norway, today only 28 remain.
Following your visit, you will embark your coach for the drive back to Bergen. You have the option of continuing on back to the ship, or remaining in town to browse the market and historic shops found along the Hanseatic Pier.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 2 hours of moderate walking/standing, at times over uneven surfaces. The tour is not available to wheelchair guests and those with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of ability and stamina. Flat, comfortable walking shoes, umbrella and layered clothing are suggested.