How long does it take to walk the hidden alleys of Bergen?

The full walk takes between 90 and 120 minutes. This includes time to stop for photos at Krybbesmauet and explore the surroundings of the Leprosy Museum.

Is the Bergen hidden gems walk difficult?

It is moderate in difficulty. While the distance isn't long, there are several steep sections and cobblestone stairs that require a decent level of fitness and steady footing.

Can I see the Leprosy Museum on this walk?

Yes, the walk begins right outside the Leprosy Museum. You can choose to tour the museum interior before starting your neighborhood stroll.

Where can I take the best photos of Bergen?

Skanselien and Krybbesmauet are top photography spots. They offer unique perspectives of historic wooden houses and panoramic views of the harbor and North Sea.

Are the Bergen alleys safe to explore?

Yes, these residential neighborhoods are very safe. However, be cautious on the cobblestones during rainy weather as they can become very slick.

What are 'smau' in Bergen?

Smau are narrow, historic alleys typical of Bergen. They are usually paved with stone and lined with traditional wooden buildings, often following the steep terrain of the hills.

Is this walking route suitable for families?

It is great for families with older children who can handle stairs. It is not recommended for families with strollers due to the many steps and narrow passages.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 45 min

Duration

6

Stops

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Tour

Bergen is famous for its rainy weather and Hanseatic wharf, but the true soul of the city lies in the 'smau'—the narrow, winding alleys that climb the steep slopes of Mount Fløyen. This self-guided walk invites you to step away from the tourist crowds and explore the Fjellsiden neighborhood, a labyrinth of white-painted wooden houses, cobblestone steps, and secret gardens. As you wander, you'll discover why these historic lanes are a photographer's dream. The route begins at the Leprosy Museum, a site of profound medical history, before ascending toward Fjellveien. Along the way, you'll navigate the 'Crib Alley' (Krybbesmauet), one of the steepest and most charming paths in the city. This neighborhood stroll isn't just about the views; it's about the small details—the iron railings, the flower boxes, and the silence that falls as you move higher above the harbor. You'll pass through Steinkjellergaten, one of the oldest streets in Bergen, where the history of the medieval city still feels tangible. Unlike a standard walking tour Bergen might offer in its commercial center, this route focuses on the quiet domesticity and architectural heritage of the Fjellsiden district. Highlights include the panoramic vantage points from Skanselien and the colorful facades of Helgesens gate. Whether you're interested in Bergen's unique urban planning or simply looking for the best photography spots, this walking route provides an intimate look at the city's residential heart. Perfect for those who enjoy moderate exercise and the thrill of discovery, this self-guided adventure allows you to pause whenever a view catches your eye or a hidden doorway piques your curiosity. Exploring these secret corners reveals a side of Bergen often missed by those who stay on the level ground of the harbor.

Highlights

Steepest cobblestone alleys (smau)
Historic wooden architecture of Fjellsiden
Leprosy Museum medical history
Panoramic city views from Fjellveien
Medieval street layouts in Steinkjellergaten
Vibrant colorful facades of Helgesens gate

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Leprosy Museum St. Jørgen's Hospital

St. Jørgen's Hospital stands as a somber monument to medical history. For centuries, Bergen was a center for leprosy research, and it was here that Dr. Gerhard Armauer Hansen discovered the leprosy bacillus in 1873. The hospital buildings we see today date largely from the 18th century, though the institution is much older. Walking through the courtyard, you feel the weight of the lives lived here in isolation. This site is one of the best-preserved leprosy hospitals in Europe, offering a window into a past where Bergen was both a bustling port and a place of scientific breakthrough. It serves as a stark reminder of the city's social history before we ascend into the residential beauty of the hills.

2

Fjellveien Stasjon

This stop on the Fløibanen funicular route offers a taste of the higher altitudes without the full mountain climb. Fjellveien itself is a legendary promenade for locals, stretching over 4 kilometers along the mountainside. From here, the city unfolds beneath you like a map. You can see the geometric lines of the harbor and the red roofs of the Bryggen wharf. It's a key transition point where the urban density of the center gives way to the airy, residential slopes of Fjellsiden. Take a moment to breathe in the mountain air and spot the various islands dotting the fjord in the distance. It is a favorite spot for locals to stop during their daily jog or stroll.

3

Krybbesmauet

Welcome to one of the most iconic 'smau' in Bergen. 'Smau' is the local word for these narrow passages, and Krybbesmauet is legendary for its steepness and tight turns. As you climb or descend, notice how the wooden houses lean toward each other, creating an intimate, almost tunnel-like atmosphere. It is a perfect example of how Bergen’s citizens adapted to the vertical landscape. The cobblestones here are centuries old, smoothed by generations of residents carrying goods up the mountain. This alley is particularly famous among photographers for its symmetry and the way the traditional white siding of the houses contrasts with the dark stone path. It perfectly captures the essence of old Bergen.

4

Steinkjellergaten

This street name translates to 'Stone Cellar Street,' hinting at the ancient foundations beneath your feet. It is one of the oldest thoroughfares in Bergen, once serving as a main artery for the city's medieval residents. The architecture here is a fascinating mix of periods, but the narrow street plan remains largely unchanged from the Middle Ages. Look for the small details in the doorways and the way the street curves to follow the natural contour of the hill. In medieval times, this area was just outside the main commercial hub, housing craftsmen and laborers who built the city we see today. It remains a lived-in, vibrant piece of history that avoids the museum-like feel of other historic districts.

5

Skanselien

This area offers some of the most dramatic architectural perspectives in the city. Skanselien is known for its grander 19th-century villas mixed with traditional wooden structures. The elevation provides a stunning backdrop of the North Sea and the surrounding islands. It's a favorite for photographers because of the way the light hits the white facades during the 'golden hour.' You will see the Skansen fire station nearby, a historic tower that once kept watch over the wooden city to prevent the devastating fires that have plagued Bergen's history. The atmosphere here is peaceful and residential, offering a quiet world away from the busy fish market and tourist shops below.

6

Helgesens gate

Ending our walk in Helgesens gate brings us to a vibrant display of Bergen’s love for color. While many historic houses are traditionally white to reflect light, this street features a variety of hues that brighten even the greyest rainy days. The street is lined with well-preserved wooden homes that represent the quintessential Bergen lifestyle. Note the 'utskjæringer' or wood carvings on some of the door frames, a sign of the carpenter's pride. It is a quiet, residential end to the journey, perfect for reflecting on the hidden layers of history tucked away in the city’s steep slopes. From here, a short walk downhill returns you to the harbor and the modern city center.

Frequently Asked Questions

This secret alleys route is widely considered the best way to see Fjellsiden as it focuses on the historic 'smau' (alleys) and wooden architecture away from the main tourist paths.