Fløibanen Funicular
Vestland
Fløibanen Funicular is an 850-meter-long cable railway that connects Bergen's city center to Fløyen mountain, one of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen. Opened in 1918, it transports passengers to an altitude of 320 meters in about eight minutes, offering panoramic views of the city, fjords, and surrounding mountains. Fløyen itself is a popular destination for hiking with well-marked trails leading to nearby peaks like Blåmanen and Rundemannen, as well as sledding paths illuminated during winter. The funicular has become Bergen's most visited tourist attraction, carrying over 48 million passengers since its opening. At the top, visitors can enjoy the Fløytrappene viewpoint, a broad staircase rebuilt in 2002 leading to Fløien Folkerestaurant, where local cuisine can be savored. The funicular features modern panoramic carriages named Rødhette and Blåmann, accommodating around 120 passengers each, including accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers. Fløyen also offers family-friendly amenities such as a playground, troll forest, and opportunities for overnight stays in treetop accommodations. This combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and cultural offerings makes Fløibanen a must-visit experience in Bergen.
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Tip: The best time to visit Fløibanen is during the summer months from May to September when the weather is most favorable and hiking trails are fully accessible. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. Visitors can benefit from discounts for groups, children, and seniors. The funicular operates daily with frequent departures, and the top station has been upgraded for universal accessibility, including easy access without stairs or elevators. For families, the playground and troll forest provide engaging activities for children. Planning a visit in the early morning or late afternoon can offer a quieter experience and beautiful lighting for photography.
Interesting facts
- •Fløibanen has transported over 48 million passengers since its opening in 1918.
- •The funicular's journey takes about 6 to 8 minutes to ascend 320 meters.
- •Fløibanen was Norway's fourth most visited tourist attraction during the 2001 summer season.
- •The current panoramic carriages, named Rødhette and Blåmann, were introduced in 2022 and can each hold approximately 120 passengers.
- •Fløyen mountain is one of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen and offers hiking routes to other peaks like Blåmanen and Rundemannen.
History
The idea for a motorized transport to Fløyen was first proposed in 1895 but only realized after construction began in 1914.
Despite delays caused by World War I and material shortages, Fløibanen officially opened on January 15, 1918.
Since then, it has operated continuously except for a major renovation in 2002 and a refurbishment in 2021-2022, when new panoramic carriages were introduced.
The funicular quickly became a symbol of Bergen and one of Norway's most visited tourist attractions.
Ownership is partly municipal and partly private, with ongoing investments to modernize the line and enhance passenger comfort.
Place Guide
Lower Station (Vetrlidsallmenningen)1918
The funicular's lower station is located in the heart of Bergen, just 150 meters from Torget square. It serves as the main boarding point for visitors and is historically notable for its early 20th-century construction and proximity to the city harbor.
Fløibanen Funicular Ride2022 (latest carriages)
The 850-meter funicular ride ascends from the city center to Fløyen mountain over approximately 6 to 8 minutes. The ride offers panoramic views through large windows in the modern carriages, named Rødhette and Blåmann, designed for comfort and visibility.
Fløytrappene Viewpoint2002
An extended broad staircase rebuilt in 2002 that connects the upper funicular station to Fløien Folkerestaurant. It offers expansive views over Bergen and the surrounding fjords and mountains, making it a prime spot for photography and relaxation.
Fløien Folkerestaurant
A restaurant located near the top station serving local cuisine with spectacular views. Recently renovated, it provides a cozy atmosphere for dining after hiking or the funicular ride.
Hiking Trails on Fløyen
Fløyen offers several well-marked hiking trails leading to nearby mountains such as Blåmanen, Rundemannen, and Sandviksfjellet. Trails are accessible year-round, with floodlighting in winter for sledding and evening walks.
Contact
Phone: 55 33 68 00
