Mount Ulriken Summit
Ascend Mount Ulriken for unparalleled panoramic views of Bergen, fjords, and mountains, via a challenging hike or scenic cable car.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best visibility for views
Mount Ulriken Summit
Best Time
Best visibility for views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Mount Ulriken for unparalleled panoramic views of Bergen, fjords, and mountains, via a challenging hike or scenic cable car.
"The view from the top is absolutely amazing—you can see the entire city, the surrounding fjords, and mountains stretching into the distance."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Good hiking shoes are essential for the stairs and trails, even if you plan to take the cable car down.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially if you're hiking up. Summit facilities can be pricey.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City & Fjord Views
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Bergen, surrounding fjords, and mountains. A truly unforgettable sight.
The 1333 Steps Challenge
Ascent Trail
A rewarding, albeit steep, climb offering a sense of accomplishment and stunning progress views.
Ulriken Cable Car Ride
Ascent/Descent
A smooth, quick journey with ever-expanding views of the landscape below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb or Cable Car
Weather-Ready for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Good hiking shoes are essential for the stairs and trails, even if you plan to take the cable car down.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially if you're hiking up. Summit facilities can be pricey.
🚠 Cable Car Down Option
Consider hiking up and taking the cable car down to save energy and enjoy the descent views.
🗺️ Follow Trail Markers
Stick to the main paths, especially trail number 2, to reach the stairs and summit safely.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Good hiking shoes are essential for the stairs and trails, even if you plan to take the cable car down.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized, especially if you're hiking up. Summit facilities can be pricey.
🚠 Cable Car Down Option
Consider hiking up and taking the cable car down to save energy and enjoy the descent views.
🗺️ Follow Trail Markers
Stick to the main paths, especially trail number 2, to reach the stairs and summit safely.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Weather changes rapidly; be prepared for wind, rain, and cooler temperatures at the summit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mount Ulriken offers breathtaking panoramic views of Bergen and its surroundings, accessible via a challenging hike or a scenic cable car ride. Visitors rave about the stunning vistas, especially on clear days, and the rewarding feeling of reaching the summit. However, the changeable weather and the cost of the cable car are common points of consideration.
"Definitely worth the walk up. Fantastic view over Bergen and surrounding area. The walk up is challenging 1333 steps and a steep walk before that but it is not so difficult. We were told that it would take 1-2hours - it took us around 55minutes. I would recommend good hiking shoes, water and maybe a snack. It is tiring but really not as bad as people make it out to be - as long as you are not completely out of shape - even so, you could make it if you walk slowly.
There are no really challenging parts. The first trail before getting to the stairs is quite steep at certain points - take your time as then come the 1333 stairs. But once you make it up you can then take the cable car down (it is expensive though).
To get to the start, just take the number 2 tram from the centre to the hospital area (station is called Haukeland sjukehus) and walk up from there to where the cable car is, and then just past it on the right is the start of the trails. Just follow the shortest one, 2.5km (stay on the biggest path - and you will get to the stairs after a little while).
Final thing - once you reach the top where the cable car is, you can continue up a bit more to the peak (from which I took the first picture) - but optional. There are two routes for that, I went the much shorter but steeper which is on the facade. You can also go around a longer route on the side of this peak."
Mario Guido
"Mount Ulriken is a must-visit if you’re in Bergen. The view from the top is absolutely amazing—you can see the entire city, the surrounding fjords, and mountains stretching into the distance. It’s a breathtaking experience, whether you visit on a clear day or catch the moody beauty of misty weather.
You can reach the top by taking the Ulriken cable car, which is a short and smooth ride with great views along the way. For those who enjoy hiking, there’s also a scenic trail up the mountain that offers a rewarding climb.
Once at the top, you’ll find a mix of raw natural beauty and stunning panoramic views."
Ati Bahrani
"Excellent hike! If you can handle the stairs do it by walk to go up if not take the aerial tramway. Them it is the beginning of multiple hike which are all really nice."
Raphael Pisarz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take the number 2 tram from the city center to the Haukeland sjukehus (hospital) station. From there, it's a short walk to the Ulriken cable car base station. The hike start is just past the cable car station on the right.
Yes, there is parking available at the base of the Ulriken cable car, though it can fill up during peak season.
Yes, it's a popular, albeit long, hike (around 16km) that connects Mount Fløyen to Mount Ulriken. It's a challenging but rewarding trek for experienced hikers.
The trailhead for the main hike, including the 1333 steps, is located just past the Ulriken cable car station. Follow the signs for trail number 2.
Absolutely! The number 2 tram is a convenient and frequent option from Bergen's city center directly to the hospital area, a short walk from the cable car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the Ulriken cable car can vary, but it's generally considered expensive. It's advisable to check the official Ulriken website for current pricing and booking options.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues.
There is no entrance fee to access Mount Ulriken. The cost is associated with using the Ulriken cable car for ascent or descent. Hiking up is free.
Operating hours for the Ulriken cable car can change seasonally. It's best to check the official Ulriken website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or families. Check the Ulriken website for any special offers or group rates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views, take photos, visit the restaurant, and explore shorter walking trails. You can also opt to hike further up to the peak for even more expansive vistas.
The hike involves a significant number of steep steps (1333) and some steep sections before that. While challenging, it's generally considered manageable for those with moderate fitness, especially if taken slowly.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the Ulriken cable car station at the summit.
Yes, you can hike down Mount Ulriken. Many visitors choose to hike up and take the cable car down, or vice versa. The descent can be just as challenging as the ascent due to steepness.
Expect stunning panoramic views of Bergen, the surrounding fjords, islands, and mountains. The scenery is breathtaking in both clear and misty weather.
📸 📸 Photography
The main viewing platforms at the summit offer incredible panoramic shots. For more dramatic photos, consider hiking slightly higher to the peak or capturing the winding trails and steps.
Absolutely! Cloudy or misty weather can create a moody and dramatic atmosphere, leading to unique and captivating photographs of the landscape.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. However, the views are spectacular throughout the day, so timing depends on your preference for light and atmosphere.
Yes, you can capture great shots of the Ulriken cable car against the backdrop of the mountains and city, especially from the base station or during the ride itself.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant fjords or city details. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older, more active children, the hike up the 1333 steps can be a fun challenge. Ensure everyone has appropriate footwear and plenty of water. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top is a fantastic reward for kids. Remember that the weather can change quickly, so pack accordingly for comfort.
🚶 Budget Travelers
If you opt for the cable car, consider purchasing a round-trip ticket if you plan to use it for both ascent and descent. Sometimes, combining a hike up with a cable car descent can be a good compromise for budget and time. Always check the official website for any potential discounts or family packages.
👟 Active Adventurers
Remember to wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots and moisture-wicking clothing. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, and always let someone know your hiking plans. The rewarding views at the summit are the perfect payoff for your efforts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ulriken Hike: A Traveler's Guide
To start the hike, head past the Ulriken cable car station and look for the signs for trail number 2. This is generally considered the shortest and most direct route to the stairs. It's highly recommended to wear good hiking shoes or sturdy trainers, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. Bringing water and snacks is also a wise precaution, as facilities at the top can be expensive.
Once you reach the summit via the hike, you have the option to continue a bit further up to the actual peak for even more spectacular views. There are two routes for this: a shorter, steeper one, and a longer, more gradual path around the side. Many visitors opt to hike up and then take the Ulriken cable car down to save their legs for further exploration of Bergen.
Experiencing Mount Ulriken: Cable Car vs. Hike
On the other hand, the hike, particularly the one involving the 1333 steps, provides a sense of accomplishment and a more intimate connection with the mountain. It's a fantastic way to challenge yourself and enjoy the journey at your own pace. Many travelers find the hike tiring but ultimately rewarding, with beautiful scenery along the way.
Regardless of your chosen method of ascent, the panoramic views from the summit are the main draw. Whether you arrive by cable car or on foot, the breathtaking vistas of the city, fjords, and mountains are an unforgettable experience. Consider hiking up and taking the cable car down to combine the best of both worlds.
Navigating Bergen's Weather for Your Ulriken Visit
Sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended, especially if you plan to hike. The trails can become slippery, and the steps can be slick. Bringing a hat and gloves is also a good idea, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes.
While a misty or cloudy day can lend a dramatic and moody atmosphere to the views, clear days offer unparalleled visibility. Check the local weather forecast just before your visit, but always be prepared for the unexpected. The dramatic weather is part of the charm of the Norwegian coast!
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