Foto: Ulriken643 / Visit Bergen

Norway Tips for a holiday in Bergen – explore the mountains surrounding the city

Tips for a holiday in Bergen – explore the mountains surrounding the city

Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, is renowned for its seven mountains that encircle the city, offering some of the most spectacular natural experiences in the country.

Whether you're an experienced hiker or simply wish to enjoy a short walk in nature, there’s something for everyone in Bergen. Here are three fantastic hikes that will allow you to experience the city’s beauty from above.

Foto: Ulriken643 / Visit Bergen

Ulriken to Fløyen – The Classic Mountain Hike

The most iconic hike in Bergen is the route from Ulriken to Fløyen, known for combining the best of the city’s stunning nature and breathtaking views. The hike begins with an ascent of Ulriken, where you can take the Ulriksbanen cable car to the mountain’s summit. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic panoramic view over Bergen, the fjords, and the surrounding mountains. From here, the hike follows a marked trail that leads you through varying landscapes of forests, mountain ridges, and small idyllic lakes.

Foto: Ulriken643

The trek from Ulriken to Fløyen is a challenging yet manageable hike that takes around 4-5 hours. Along the way, you’ll experience Norwegian nature at its best, with plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the views. As you near the end of the hike, you’ll be treated to yet another stunning view from Fløyen. From there, you can choose to take the Fløibanen funicular down to Bergen city, where you can end the day by exploring the city’s charming streets and eateries. This is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Bergen who wishes to combine the beauty of nature with the city’s charm.

Foto: Ulriken643 / Visit Bergen

Stoltzekleiven – A Short but Intense Experience

Stoltzekleiven is a steep and intense hike consisting of around 800 stone steps leading up to Sandviksfjellet. Although the hike only takes about 30-45 minutes, it’s a true challenge for both legs and lungs. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent view over Bergen and Byfjorden, making this route particularly popular among both locals and tourists. It’s an ideal activity for those seeking a quick workout combined with a fantastic view.

If you're looking for a longer hiking experience, you can continue the hike from Sandviksfjellet towards Fløyen. The trail connecting Stoltzekleiven with Fløyen offers a more relaxed hike through varied terrain, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and make the most of your day in nature. This extended route is perfect for those who want to explore more of Bergen’s majestic mountains and have an unforgettable nature experience.

Foto: Visit Bergen / Espen Haagensen - visitBergen.com

Løvstien – The City’s Hidden Gem

Løvstien is a lesser-known but incredibly beautiful hiking trail that runs along Løvstakken, one of Bergen’s seven mountains. The trail is perfect for those who want a more relaxed walk without the steep climbs. Løvstien stretches over approximately 4.5 kilometres and offers wooded areas, open plains, and stunning viewpoints over the city.

One of the newest additions to the trail is the impressive wooden boardwalk, recently opened. This boardwalk makes the hike even more accessible and provides a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape. The bridge is a fantastic piece of craftsmanship that beautifully integrates into the nature and offers hikers an unforgettable experience.

The hike takes about 1-2 hours, depending on where you start. Starting from Melkeplassen or Bønestoppen, you can expect a relaxed and scenic hike where you can enjoy both forest and views. The trail is suitable for all age groups and is therefore an ideal family hike. Along the route, there are several picnic areas where you can take a break and enjoy nature. Løvstien is a hidden gem in Bergen, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, now with even more to offer thanks to the new boardwalk.

Foto: Visit Bergen / Espen Bakketun - visitBergen.com

Plan Your Holiday in Bergen with Fjord Line

Travel with Fjord Line from Hirtshals in Denmark to Bergen and begin your Norwegian adventure in this beautiful city. Whether you dream of exploring the mountains around Bergen, enjoying the city’s cultural offerings, or simply relaxing in the stunning nature, Bergen is the perfect starting point. Fjord Line offers comfortable crossings, so you can arrive rested and ready to explore.

Check out our ferry offers to Bergen and start planning your next holiday today.