Fløibanen: How to Ride Bergen’s Funicular Railway

No trip to Bergen is complete without a journey on Fløibanen, the funicular railway that climbs from the city centre up to the summit of Mount Fløyen.

Whether you're looking for the best photo opportunity in town, a place to enjoy the fresh mountain air, or a starting point for a scenic hike, Fløibanen makes it quick and easy to reach one of Bergen’s top attractions.

It's hard to read any article about Bergen without seeing an accompanying shot of the city from above. Many of these are taken from the top of Mount Fløyen. It has become such an iconic view of the city and is quite the sight, day or night, rain or shine.

To reach the top of Fløyen, you can walk up steep roads or trails, which are well signposted. But most tourists prefer to take the funicular railway, known as Fløibanen.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to ride Fløibanen, what to expect from the experience, and why it’s well worth adding to your Bergen itinerary.

What Is Fløibanen?

Fløibanen is a funicular railway—a type of cable railway that runs on tracks up a steep slope—connecting central Bergen with Mount Fløyen, one of the seven mountains that surround the city.

The railway first opened in 1918 and has since carried tens of millions of passengers, making it one of the best things to do in Bergen, and also one of Norway’s most popular tourist attractions.

The ride itself is short but memorable. In just a few minutes, the funicular whisks you from sea level up to an altitude of 320 metres (1,050 feet), revealing stunning views over Bergen, the fjords, and the surrounding mountains.

Where to Find the Fløibanen Station

The lower station of Fløibanen is located in the heart of Bergen, just a few steps from the fish market and the historic Bryggen wharf. The distinctive white station building is easy to spot and well signposted around the city centre.

Ticket Options and How to Ride

Tickets for Fløibanen are easy to purchase, but with its popularity among both tourists and locals, it’s worth knowing your options in advance to make the most of your visit.

Fløibanen Ticket Prices (2025)

• Adult return: 190 NOK (NOK 140 low season)
• Child return: 95 NOK (NOK 70 low season)
• Family ticket and group discounts available
• Tickets can be purchased online or at the station (card payments preferred)

Buying tickets in advance online is recommended, especially in summer when queues can be long. However, even with a pre-booked ticket, you may need to wait for the next available departure if trains are full.

However, you don’t need to queue at the ticket machines or counters. Once you have your ticket, whether purchased online or in advance, you can simply walk through the gates and wait for the next available departure.

The funicular operates year-round, with trains running every 15 minutes for most of the day. Service frequency may be reduced early in the morning or late in the evening, with additional departures during busy periods.

Boarding Tips

• Arrive early in the morning for the quietest experience.
• Consider a late/evening departure for a different perspective.
• Check the screen above the gates to see how many spaces remain on the next departure.
• If you're travelling with a group, make sure there are enough free spaces before scanning your ticket.

The system is wheelchair accessible, with a wider gate available for those with strollers or mobility aids.

What to Expect on the Journey

The journey to the top of Mount Fløyen takes just four to eight minutes, depending on the number of stops along the way.

The line does have a handful of intermediate stations where locals may get on or off. There is also a passing point where the two trains meet on the single-track line.

Each train consists of a single carriage, divided into four sections with separate doors. While there are a few seats, the carriages are mostly designed for standing passengers. If you're hoping for the best views on the way up, head for the front section of the train.

That said, the main event is the view from the top—so don’t worry too much if you can’t snag a window spot on the ride itself.

Things to Do at the Top of Fløyen

Stepping off the funicular at the upper station feels like entering another world. Even though you’re just a few minutes away from the busy streets of Bergen, the fresh mountain air and panoramic views offer an instant sense of space and calm.

Whether your plan is to relax and take in the scenery, enjoy a family-friendly adventure, or set off on a longer hike, there’s plenty to see and do at the top of Fløyen.

Enjoy the Iconic View

The main attraction is, of course, the spectacular view. The stepped viewing platforms near the station provide plenty of space for visitors to enjoy sweeping vistas across Bergen, the city’s harbour, the surrounding fjords, and the distant mountains.

Look out for the glass-walled overhanging sections of the viewing area—ideal for snapping those classic Bergen photos. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you might even spot the islands of Sotra and Askøy far out into the North Sea.

That said, don’t be put off by mist or drizzle. Like much of western Norway, Bergen’s weather can be unpredictable, but the shifting clouds and moody skies only add to the dramatic atmosphere.

Meet the Mountain Goats

From late spring through to autumn, keep an eye out for the resident mountain goats that roam freely around the top station. These friendly creatures have become something of a mascot for Fløyen and are always a hit with visitors—especially children.

The goats are used to people and are happy to pose for photos, but remember to treat them with respect and avoid feeding them.

Visit the Troll Forest (Trollskogen)

One of the most charming features of Mount Fløyen is the Troll Forest (Trollskogen), located just a short walk from the funicular station. This atmospheric woodland area is dotted with carved wooden trolls, whimsical sculptures, and quirky art installations designed to spark the imagination.

Winding paths lead through the trees, with surprises around every corner. The Troll Forest is particularly popular with families but is just as enjoyable for adults who appreciate a bit of Norwegian folklore.

The trail is an easy stroll and suitable for most visitors, with clear signposts pointing the way.

Playground and Family Activities

Next to the viewing platforms, there’s an outdoor playground with climbing frames, swings, and slides, making Fløyen a great destination for families with young children.

In addition to the playground and Troll Forest, there’s an outdoor activity park during the summer season, with balance challenges and obstacle courses that encourage kids to explore and burn off some energy.

During school holidays and weekends, you may also find organised activities and guided family walks. Check the official Fløyen website for details if you’re travelling at these times.

Grab a Coffee or Enjoy a Meal With a View

There are several options for refreshments at the top of Fløyen:

Fløien Folkerestaurant: A historic sit-down restaurant with large windows and views over the city. The menu focuses on seasonal local produce, and while prices are on the higher side, the setting makes it a memorable dining experience.

Fløistuen Café: A more casual café near the upper station, offering coffee, cakes, sandwiches, and snacks.

Souvenir shop: Here you’ll find postcards, troll figurines, outdoor gear, and other Bergen-themed gifts.

Opening hours for the café, restaurant, and shop vary depending on the season, with more limited services outside the summer months. If you’re visiting in winter, it’s worth checking ahead to confirm what will be open.

Hiking and Walking Trails

Mount Fløyen is the starting point for a wide range of walking and hiking routes, from gentle strolls to more challenging treks. Even if you haven’t planned to hike in Bergen, there are several easy, well-marked paths suitable for spontaneous exploring.

Some popular options include:

• A short circular walk around Skomakerdiket lake, just ten minutes from the station.
• A gentle climb to Blåmanen, one of the neighbouring peaks.
• The more demanding five-hour trek to Mount Ulriken, Bergen’s highest mountain, with the option to take the Ulriken cable car back down.

Trail maps are available at the top station, and routes are well signposted. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask a local or staff member for advice.

Fløibanen Seasonal Tips

When you visit Mount Fløyen can make a big difference to your experience. Here’s what to expect in each season.

Summer: Expect large crowds, especially on sunny weekends and cruise ship days. Arrive early in the morning or later in the evening for a quieter experience.

Autumn: The forest bursts into colour, making for a beautiful and peaceful time to visit.

Winter: Snow transforms the landscape into a magical scene, and cross-country ski trails are groomed in the surrounding area. The funicular runs year-round, but facilities may have reduced hours. Read more about Bergen in the winter.

Spring: Melting snow and blooming flowers bring the area back to life, and the goats return to graze on the hillsides.

A Short History of Fløibanen

The idea of connecting Bergen’s city centre to the heights of Mount Fløyen by rail was first proposed in the late 19th century, but construction didn’t begin until 1914. The line officially opened on 15 January 1918, and quickly became a beloved part of the city.

The fifth generation of Fløibanen trains began operation on 1 April 2022, following the largest upgrade in the funicular's history.

This modernisation project, which began in autumn 2021, involved the complete renewal of the trains, machinery, and control systems to meet the needs of today's passengers while preserving the iconic ride experience.

Each new carriage can now accommodate up to 120 passengers, significantly boosting capacity to handle the increasing number of visitors, which reached around 2 million boardings per year before the pandemic.

All stations have also been redesigned with universal accessibility in mind, making the journey comfortable for all user groups. Despite the upgrades, the funicular still operates on the classic counterweight principle, pulling the trains smoothly up and down the mountainside.

While originally built to serve the people of Bergen, Fløibanen has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway.

Fløibanen for Cruise Ship Visitors

If you're visiting Bergen on a cruise, riding Fløibanen is an easy and worthwhile excursion you can organise independently.

Although the funicular gets very busy on days when multiple ships are in port, there’s no need for most visitors to book an expensive cruise line shore excursion just to ride the railway.

The Fløibanen lower station is located about a 15–20 minute walk from the main cruise ship terminal, making it simple to reach on foot. Do be aware, however, that some ships dock at alternative berths farther from the city centre.

Tickets for Fløibanen are easy to purchase either online or at the station. There's no special arrangements required.

Is Fløibanen Worth It?

Absolutely! Whether you’re in Bergen for just a day or staying for longer, riding Fløibanen is a simple, enjoyable way to experience the landscape that makes this coastal city so special.

The views from Mount Fløyen are iconic for a reason, and the ride itself is part of the charm.

Add in the possibility of hikes, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying a coffee with a view, and Fløibanen becomes much more than just a way to get up a hill—it’s one of the highlights of any visit to Bergen.

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