Bergen is often called the gateway to the fjords, but for hikers, it’s something else entirely: one of the best hiking cities in Norway. You don’t need to drive for hours or plan multi-day trips. Some of the best hikes near Bergen start right in the city, and within minutes you’re surrounded by mountains, lakes, and wide-open views of fjords and islands. Bergen is one of my absolute favourite cities and got some of the best nature around it.
Whether you want an easy afternoon walk, a proper mountain hike, or a full ridge adventure, Bergen delivers rain or shine (mostly rain, let’s be honest). But that makes the experience more raw and more Norwegian.
Here are my favorite hikes near Bergen, with clear starting points, difficulty levels, and what makes each hike worth doing.
Mount Fløyen – The Classic Bergen Hike
Distance: 4-6 km (depending on route)
Difficulty: Easy
Starting point: Fløibanen station or city center
If you only do one hike in Bergen, this is it.
Mount Fløyen is extremely accessible, but don’t let that fool you. Once you leave the main viewpoint, you’ll find quiet forest paths, lakes, and surprisingly peaceful terrain. You can hike all the way up from the city or take the funicular and walk from there.
Why it’s great:
- Perfect for beginners and families
- Multiple loop options
- Great views over Bergen harbor
- Possible year-round
Tip: Walk past the main viewpoint and head towards Brushytten or Skomakerdiket for a much calmer experience.
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Mount Ulriken – Best View in Bergen
Distance: 6 km
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Starting point: Montana (classic route)
Mount Ulriken is the highest of Bergen’s seven mountains, and it feels like it. This hike is steeper, more physical, and much more rewarding if you like a proper climb.
The classic route from Montana is demanding but well-marked. At the top, you get a panoramic view of the entire city, surrounding islands, and distant mountains.
Why it’s great:
- Best viewpoint in Bergen
- Proper mountain hike
- Can be combined with cable car down
Tip: Hike up, take the cable car down. Your knees will thank you.
Vidden Trail – From Fløyen to Ulriken
Distance: 13 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting point: Fløyen
Ending point: Ulriken
The Vidden Trail is one of the most famous hikes near Bergen, and for good reason. It’s a long but relatively flat hike across a high plateau between Fløyen and Ulriken.
You’ll get open landscapes, lakes, wide skies, and constantly changing views. On a clear day, this hike is absolutely spectacular.
Why it’s great:
- Long but not overly technical
- Feels remote despite being near the city
- Perfect for a full-day hike
Tip: Check the weather before you go. Fog can roll in fast up here.
While you are in Bergen. What about checking out where the best places are to camp?
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Mount Lyderhorn – Wild and Underrated
Distance: 5 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting point: Gravdal or Kjøkkelvik
Mount Lyderhorn is often overlooked, which makes it one of my personal favorites. It’s steeper and more rugged than Fløyen, but far less crowded.
Historically known as “the witches’ mountain,” Lyderhorn feels raw and exposed, especially near the summit. The views stretch far out towards the coast and North Sea.
Why it’s great:
- Fewer people
- Coastal views
- Short but intense
Tip: Not ideal in strong wind. Choose a calm day.
Damsgårdsfjellet – Sunset Favorite
Distance: 4-7 km
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Starting point: Melkeplassen or Laksevåg
Damsgårdsfjellet is perfect if you want a quick hike with a big payoff. It’s especially good in the evening, when the sun sets over the sea and lights up the islands west of Bergen.
The terrain is gentle, and there are many paths criss-crossing the mountain.
Why it’s great:
- Ideal after work
- Great sunset views
- Easy access from residential areas
Final Thoughts: Why Bergen Is a Hiking Paradise
What makes hiking near Bergen special is not just the mountains. It’s how easy it is. You can finish work, hop on a bus, and be hiking within 15 minutes. Few cities in the world offer that.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or living here long-term, these hikes will give you the best nature experiences Bergen has to offer.
