5 city hikes with incredible views

Can't decide between a city break and a hiking holiday? Norway's largest cities offer the best of both worlds – urban life and unspoilt nature! Here are five Norwegian city hikes.

Norway’s largest cities are buzzing with energy, from trendy neighbourhoods and local food, to fashion and art scenes.

The cities are also home to a wealth of mountains, steep hills and viewpoints, with popular hiking trails to suit all levels. So you can always choose between urban activities and nature adventures. For many locals, this is simply a way of life.

Join us on five amazing city-to-mountain hikes.

1. Grefsenkollen hillcrest in Oslo

Effort level: Easy
Elevation: 379 metres

Located just north of downtown Oslo, Grefsenkollen offers lovely views of the city and the fjord. From the top, you can hike into the Nordmarka forest or make a stop at the charming Grefsenkollen restaurant.

While you’re in Oslo: Get insider tips from locals on how to best spend a long weekend in the capital. Go island hopping in the Oslofjord or experience the city by bike. Take a walk on the roof of the Opera House, explore fantastic street art, and check out the restaurant scene. And if you enjoyed the forest hike, that same area (Oslomarka) offers an abundance of other forest roads and paths.

2. Mount Fløyen in Bergen

Effort level: Medium
Elevation: 400 metres

When it comes to stunning views and accessible paths, Bergen is hard to beat. The city is idyllically situated by a fjord with a backdrop of steep mountains.

If steep hikes are not for you, you can take the Fløibanen funicular to the top station and walk (about 1 hour) back down to central Bergen. You can walk up as well (takes up to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace) and there are many paths from the city centre. The Fløibanen has several stops, so if you don't feel like walking the whole way up or down, you can take the funicular part of the way.

While you’re in Bergen: Get some hot tips for how best to spend a weekend in the fjord capital. Of course, you’ll visit the UNESCO listed Hanseatic wharf Bryggen – but you should also take a look at what’s behind the facade! And If you’re considering a day trip to Flåm, know that the experience is even cooler in winter.

3. Mount Aksla in Ålesund

Effort level: Medium
Elevation: 180 metres

Follow the path from the city park up 418 stone steps to the top of Ålesund's Mount Aksla. You'll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the city centre, nearby islands, and the Sunnmøre Alps. You can enjoy the scenery from the Fjellstua restaurant and walk back to town on the path called Borgernes vei.

While you’re in Ålesund: Learn about the city's incredible architecture at The Art Nouveau Centre & the Art Museum KUBE. Visit the Fisheries Museum, get close to marine life at Atlanterhavsparken, and enjoy the picturesque Alnes lighthouse.

4. Mount Fløya in Tromsø

Effort level: Medium
Elevation: 671 metres

The ‘Sherpa stairs’ to the top of Mount Fløya is one of the most popular hikes in the Tromsø area. It takes at least 40 minutes and there are places to rest along the way with incredible views. The stairs connect with the Fjelleheisen Cable Car, so you can choose to ride up or down. This is the city’s best place to experience the midnight sun.

While you’re in Tromsø: Plan your long weekend in the Arctic city with top tips from locals. If you’re visiting in winter, be on the lookout for northern lights! In the Lyngen Alps close to the city you can go hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, and when you’re hungry, Tromsø offers Arctic food with a modern take.

5. Vettakollen hillcrest in Oslo

Effort level: Easy
Elevation: 419 metres

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Oslo, you’re in for a treat. Located just minutes from the Vettakollen metro stop, this is one of the most accessible hikes from downtown.

Follow the path into Oslo’s “backyard” – the Nordmarka forest – and be rewarded with a panoramic view of the capital.