Fløibanen Funicular
320 meters above Bergen in 6 minutes
Overview
The Fløibanen funicular has been running since 1918. The current carriages were replaced in 2002 and carry 80 passengers per trip. The lower station sits two blocks east of Bryggen, in the centre of Bergen.
At the summit, a viewing platform faces west across Vågen harbour, Bryggen, Nordnes, and the offshore islands. On clear days — and Bergen averages only 100 of those per year — the visibility extends 50 km. At night, the city lights below are worth the return ticket.
The summit is also the starting point for a network of walking trails across the Fløyen plateau. The easiest leads to Skomakerdiket lake (10 minutes, flat), where there is a playground and picnic area. Longer trails connect to Brushytten (45 min) and further into the mountain network behind Bergen.
The walk back down to the city takes 45 minutes through mixed forest on a well-maintained gravel path. The trail passes viewpoints, park benches, and a troll sculpture forest. Most visitors take the funicular up and walk down — this is the recommended approach.
Highlights
Panoramic View
The summit platform faces west. On clear days, visibility reaches 50 km across the North Sea. In the evening, the harbour lights and Bryggen rooftops are directly below.
Mountain Trails
From the summit, marked trails lead across the Fløyen plateau. Skomakerdiket lake: 10 min, flat. Brushytten viewpoint: 45 min. Connection to Ulriken via Vidden trail: 4–5 hours.
Forest Walk Down
The walk back to the city takes 45 minutes through forest. Well-maintained gravel path, viewpoints along the way. Take the funicular up, walk down — the standard approach.
Evening Visit
The funicular runs late (until 23:00 in summer). The city lights view from the summit after dark is one of the best things you can do in Bergen for free (with ticket).
Practical information
Getting there
Lower station on Vetrlidsallmenningen, 2 blocks east of Bryggen. 5-minute walk from the Fish Market. No parking at the station — walk or take the Bybanen to Byparken.
Tickets
Adults: 65 NOK one way, 100 NOK return. Children half price. Bergen Card: free. Buy online or at the ticket machines at the lower station.
Hours
Mon–Fri 07:30–23:00. Sat–Sun 08:00–23:00. Every 15 minutes. Reduced hours in winter. Check floyen.no for current schedule.
Tips
Buy one-way up, walk down (45 min). Visit in the evening for city lights. If it is raining at street level, it is raining at the summit — Bergen’s weather does not improve with altitude.
Plan your Bergen trip
Bergen has more to offer. Explore the full city guide or browse other Norwegian cities.