Accompanying persons programme

In connection to the VTS Symposium 2008 in Bergen the Norwegian Coastal Administration will offer a varied programme for accompanying persons. While delegates attend technical sessions accompanying persons can enjoy the sights and sounds of Bergen by participating in guided sightseeing tours.

Monday August 4

City sightseeing - an introduction to Bergen
This guided tour is an introduction to the city of Bergen. You will get a presentation of the city's 900 years history. Founded in 1070, by King Olav Kyrre, Bergen became the first capital of Norway, and for a period during the middle ages it was the largest city of the Nordic countries. For several centuries the Hanseatic merchants had one of their trading offices in Bergen - the German office at Bryggen. Commerce and shipping have always been of the greatest importance to Bergen, and commerce is still a significant part of Bergen's economic life. Trade and industry also have a prominent place, and there is now full engagement in the oil related activities in the North Sea.

By coach you will see all the buildings that play a part of Bergen's history, and also the new and modern ones. The guide will also point out the main malls and other spots that can be of interest for you to visit during your stay in Bergen.

Delegates attending the technical sessions at the symposium can also attend this tour, and register for the symposium as this tour ends at Grieghallen.

Duration: 2 hours.

Tuesday August 5

Wandering at Bryggen
Wander along the charming row of wooden point gables houses until you reach the Hanseatic Museum. The stroll takes you through Bryggen's 800 to 900 years of history, and gives an intimate and living picture of the comprehensive city of the Middle Ages, where the Hanseatic merchants established one of their four overseas offices. Visit the Hanseatic Museum, one of the oldest and best preserved wooden buildings in Bergen, furnished in the style of the 17th century. The interior gives an intimate picture of merchant life in the Hanseatic period.

Duration: 2 - 3 hours.

Wednesday August 6

Concert at Troldhaugen
A first class coach and an English speaking guide will pick you up and drive you to "Troldhaugen", composer Edvard Grieg's home for 22 years. This is a property beautifully located next to the peaceful Nordås Lake. Here Edvard Grieg composed many of his best known works. This is also the burial place of Edvard Grieg and his wife Nina. You will enjoy a piano recital in the living room of his house, performed by a pianist who is an expert on Grieg's music. Enjoy a lunch at Brasserie Troldhaugen before returning to Bergen.

Duration: 3 hours.


To register for the sightseeing programme.