Bergen is a favorite holiday destination for those looking to enjoy scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere mixed with historical landmarks and museums. Most people however, come to enjoy the laid-back and tranquil atmosphere of the city more than anything else.
Bryggen Wharf in Bergen – Norway is considered as the best place to visit to enjoy this kind of tranquil atmosphere and at the same time learn more about the city’s history.
Location
Bryggen Wharf in Bergen – Norway is situated on the northern shoreline of the bay. It is close to the city center.
Getting There
The best way to get to Bryggen Wharf in Bergen – Norway is on foot as it is within walking distance from the downtown area of Bergen. There are buses that are available in the city but tourists may find the schedules a bit confusing.
You can always ask around for the bus schedules but reaching the historic site shouldn’t be at all difficult on foot.
Taxis are likewise available but you may find that these are pretty costly. Driving around town is not recommended as the streets are mostly one-way so unless you know your way around, getting a car hire service is not advised.
What to See and Do
Bryggen Wharf in Bergen – Norway is the best place to visit in the city to get a feel of what it must have been like here in the olden days. The wharf is lined with Hanseatic buildings which were once used by the Hansa merchants.
This old part of the town is very well-preserved which means that as you walk down the narrow alleyways, you will get a more in-depth look at life during the peak of the wharf as a trading center for the Hanseatic League of Northern Europe.
There are museums that allow you to take a closer look at the wharf’s rich history. The restaurants also provide that “old city” atmosphere and a few of these have been around since the early days of the wharf when it was at its peak.
There are likewise shops around the area that sell local products.
Brief History
Bryggen Wharf in Bergen – Norway was believed to have been established in the year 1360, when a Kontor or a “foreign trading post” of the Hansa was founded here.
As the town progressed into one of the most important trading posts in the country, Hansa merchants began occupying the buildings. The buildings served as storage houses for a variety of goods such as fish and cereal.
The city of Bergen experienced several fires during the course of its history and Bryggen was not spared from this. The buildings that now stand here were rebuilt after a fire ravaged Bryggen in the year 1702.
In the year 1979, Bryggen was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cost
Bus fares for traveling within the city cost about 25 KR per adult and 13 KR for children aged 15 years old and younger; and senior citizens.
To gain access to the museums around Bryggen Wharf in Bergen – Norway, an entry fee of about 45 KR during peak season and 25 KR during off-peak season, per adult is charged.
Children get free admission.
Other Information
There are several pubs around Bryggen Wharf in Bergen – Norway where you can have a few drinks with friends. There usually is an age limit to gain entry into the pubs.
Age limit is typically between 20 and 23 years old.
