Best Time to Visit
May to September
Currency
Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Language
Norwegian
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Discover Flåm
Flåm isn't just a village; it's a dramatic portal into the heart of Norway's fjord country. Nestled at the innermost point of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, this tiny community is dwarfed by sheer mountain walls and cascading waterfalls. Its existence is defined by the raw, sculpting power of ice and water, creating a landscape so profound it feels almost mythical.
The village's global fame is anchored by the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana), one of the world's steepest standard-gauge train lines. The 20-kilometer journey from Flåm to Myrdal is a masterclass in engineering, climbing 864 meters past thundering waterfalls like Kjosfossen and through 20 tunnels. Yet beyond the train, Flåm is a base for fjord safaris on electric boats, hikes to hidden viewpoints like Brekkefossen, and the breathtaking drive up to the Stegastein viewing platform, which juts 30 meters over the fjord with nothing but air below.
Why Visit Flåm?
Ride the legendary Flåm Railway: Experience one of the world's most scenic train journeys, witnessing the Kjosfossen waterfall up close and traversing steep valleys from sea level at Flåm to the mountain plateau at Myrdal.
Cruise the UNESCO Nærøyfjord: Sail through the narrowest and most dramatic arm of the Sognefjord, surrounded by 1,800-meter cliffs, waterfalls, and tiny farms, best seen on a quiet electric fjord safari.
Conquer the Aurlandsdalen Valley: Hike the 'Grand Canyon of Norway,' a historic trail from Østerbø to Vassbygdi, passing wild rivers, mountain lakes, and the deserted mountain farm of Sinjarheim.
Photograph from Stegastein: Walk the iconic, architect-designed viewing platform that extends 30 meters over the Aurlandsfjord, offering a dizzying, unobstructed panorama of the fjord's entire length.
Discover living history at Otternes Farmyard: Explore a cluster of 27 preserved wooden buildings from the 17th century, still in use, offering a genuine glimpse into centuries-old fjord-side farming life.
Taste authentic fjord-to-table cuisine: Savor locally sourced ingredients like fjord-caught salmon and trout, wild game, and brown cheese (brunost) at restaurants like Ægir BrewPub or the historic Fretheim Hotel.
Flåm is Known For
Ready to explore Flåm?
Flåm Neighborhoods
Flåm Sentrum (Harbor Area)
The bustling heart of the village centered around the cruise ship pier and train station. This compact area is alive with visitors, souvenir shops, and tour operators, serving as the main hub for all adventures. The vibe is energetic and tourist-focused, with the fjord and mountains forming a constant, stunning backdrop.
Highlights:
Best for:
Aurland (Nearby Town)
Located just 10 minutes drive from Flåm, Aurland is a more authentic, working Norwegian town with a quieter, local feel. It's the administrative center of the municipality, home to schools, a larger grocery store, and the famous Aurland Shoe Factory. The vibe is residential and less crowded.
Highlights:
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Undredal
A serene, picture-perfect village on the Nærøyfjord, accessible by road or boat from Flåm. Famous for its tiny, 40-seat stave church (built c. 1147) and as the capital of traditional brown goat cheese (geitost). The vibe is tranquil, pastoral, and deeply traditional.
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The Flåm Valley (Dalen)
This refers to the agricultural valley stretching inland from the fjord, following the Flåm River. It's a landscape of working farms, historic buildings like Otternes, and trailheads for major hikes. The vibe is rural, peaceful, and deeply connected to the land.
Highlights:
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Book the Flåm Railway tickets months in advance, especially for summer. Spontaneous same-day tickets are rare and sell out instantly.
- •For the best photos of Kjosfossen waterfall from the train, sit on the right-hand side (facing uphill) when departing Flåm.
- •The 'Norway in a Nutshell' tour is popular, but you can book each leg (train, bus, ferry) independently for more flexibility and often lower cost.
- •Visit the Flåmsbana Museum (free entry) while waiting for your train. It provides excellent context on the railway's incredible construction.
- •Pack for all weather, even in summer. The microclimate can shift rapidly from sun to rain and wind. Waterproof layers are essential.
- •Grocery shop at the Joker or Coop in Aurland for better prices and selection than the small convenience stores in Flåm harbor.
- •Drive the Aurlandsfjellet 'Snow Road' (RV243) to Lærdal for an epic, high-altitude scenic alternative to the Lærdal Tunnel. It's only open in summer.
- •Hike up to the Brekkefossen waterfall early in the morning or late evening to avoid crowds and have the viewing platform to yourself.
- •If you're prone to motion sickness, take precautions before the ferry on the Nærøyfjord, as the water can be choppy, especially on smaller RIB boats.
- •Respect 'Allemannsretten' (the right to roam). You can hike and camp almost anywhere in nature, but always leave no trace and stay 150 meters from houses.
Flåm Food Scene
Flåm's food culture is deeply rooted in its fjord and mountain environment, emphasizing fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients. Expect superb seafood from the cold, clear waters, lamb and game from the high pastures, and dairy products from local farms. Dining here is a celebration of Norwegian terroir.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional & Rustic
- • Ægir BrewPub's Viking Platter
- • Fretheim Hotel's Fårikål
- • Flåm Marina's Fish Soup
Many traditional dishes are hearty and designed for the climate. Don't be shy about asking for seconds of flatbrød (crispbread).
Fjord-to-Table Seafood
- • Flåm Marina's Daily Catch
- • Arven Restaurant's Cured Trout
- • Fjord Safari's 'Taste of the Fjord' platter
The best seafood is often the simplest—ask for the fish of the day, grilled or pan-fried with local herbs.
Local Brews & Casual
- • Ægir BrewPub's craft beers and burgers
- • Flåm Bakery's Skillingsboller (cinnamon bun)
- • Vangen Cafe's waffles with brunost
Ægir BrewPub, styled like a Viking longhouse, is a must for beer lovers. Try their Rallar Øl, named for the railway builders.
Cheese & Farm Produce
- • Undredal Stølsysteri's Geitost
- • Aurlandskost's local cheese sampler
- • Farmers' market berries in summer
Visit a 'seter' (mountain farm) near Undredal to buy cheese directly from the producer. The sweet, caramelized geitost is unique.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Flåm
Spring
Spring (May to early June) sees the snow melting, creating powerful waterfalls. The landscape explodes in green, and wildflowers bloom. Tourist numbers are lower than peak summer.
Pros:
- + Spectacular, raging waterfalls
- + Fewer crowds than summer
- + Longer days with the midnight sun appearing by late May
- + Good for photography with dramatic light
Cons:
- - Unpredictable weather, often cool and wet
- - Some high-altitude hikes may still be snow-covered
- - Not all tourist services (e.g., some ferries, mountain roads) are fully operational early in the season
Summer
Summer (late June to August) is peak season, with long, mild days (avg 16°C) and nearly 24-hour daylight in June/July. This is the time for all activities, from hiking to fjord cruises.
Pros:
- + All attractions, tours, and roads are open
- + Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities
- + Lush, vibrant scenery
- + Festivals and most events are scheduled
Cons:
- - Extremely crowded, especially at the harbor and train station
- - Highest prices for accommodation and tours
- - Requires booking everything far in advance
- - Potential for mosquitoes in calm areas
Autumn
Autumn (September to October) brings stunning fall colors (russet, gold) to the mountainsides. The air is crisp, crowds thin out rapidly, and the first snow dusts the peaks.
Pros:
- + Breathtaking autumn foliage
- + Significantly fewer tourists
- + Lower prices for accommodation
- + Great conditions for hiking before it gets too cold
Cons:
- - Days shorten quickly
- - Weather becomes increasingly cold, wet, and windy
- - Many tourist-oriented services reduce hours or close after September
- - Risk of early snow closing mountain passes
Winter
Winter (November to April) is cold (around 0°C), dark, and quiet. Snow blankets the valley, and the fjord takes on a serene, monochromatic beauty. This is the off-season.
Pros:
- + A truly peaceful, almost deserted atmosphere
- + Magical snowy landscapes and frozen waterfalls
- + Lowest prices of the year
- + Possibility of seeing the Northern Lights on clear nights
Cons:
- - Very limited daylight hours
- - The Flåm Railway runs a reduced schedule; some tours don't operate
- - Road conditions can be challenging; some roads close
- - Many restaurants and hotels are closed for the season
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Day Trips from Flåm
Bergen
2.5-3 hours by express ferry or train/bus combo
Norway's historic second city and gateway to the fjords. Explore the UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, ride the Fløibanen funicular, and visit the vibrant fish market for a perfect contrast to Flåm's rural serenity.
Lærdal & Borgund Stave Church
30 min by car through the Lærdal Tunnel (world's longest road tunnel) or 1.5 hours via the scenic Aurlandsfjellet road (summer only)
Visit the stunning, perfectly preserved Borgund Stave Church, built around 1180, and explore the charming salmon fishing village of Lærdal. The drive over the dramatic Aurlandsfjellet mountain pass is an attraction in itself.
Voss
1.5 hours by train (change at Myrdal)
Known as Norway's adventure capital, Voss offers a thrilling contrast to Flåm. Set between two fjords and a lake, it's the place for adrenaline activities like skydiving, paragliding, white-water rafting, and world-class skiing in winter.
Flåm Budget Guide
Flåm is an expensive destination by global standards, reflecting Norway's high cost of living. Major expenses are accommodation, tours (like the railway), and dining out. Self-catering and advance booking are key for budget control.
Budget
€80-120 per person for budget travelers (hostel, self-catering, limited paid activities)
per day
Mid-Range
€150-250 per person for mid-range (hotel/B&B, one major tour per day, casual dining)
per day
Luxury
€300+ per person for luxury (boutique hotel, all tours & fine dining)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Book accommodation and the Flåm Railway as early as possible for the best rates.
- •Utilize kitchen facilities in hostels, cabins, or Airbnb rentals to save on food costs.
- •Consider the 'Norway in a Nutshell' self-guided ticket if it covers your desired transport; it can be more economical than buying separately.
- •Fill a water bottle from the tap—Norwegian tap water is among the cleanest in the world and free.
- •Travel in the shoulder seasons (May or September) for significantly lower accommodation prices than peak summer.
Flåm Hidden Gems
Vètingfossen Viewpoint
A lesser-known but spectacular waterfall viewpoint accessible by a short, steep hike from the main road in the Flåm valley.
It offers a frontal, powerful view of the 150-meter cascade without the crowds of Kjosfossen, and you can feel the spray on your face.
Aurland Shoe Factory Outlet
The factory store for the world-famous, minimalist Aurland shoes, located in the town of Aurland.
You can buy high-quality, iconic Norwegian design directly from the source at significant discounts, a unique souvenir.
Rallarvegen (Navvies' Road) Cycling
A historic gravel road built for the construction of the Bergen Railway, now one of Norway's most famous cycling routes from Haugastøl to Flåm.
The final descent from Myrdal to Flåm is an exhilarating 20km ride with incredible views, far more active than just taking the train down.
The Old Flåm Church (Flåm Kyrkje)
A charming, red wooden church built in 1667, located on a hill overlooking the village, a short walk from the harbor.
It's a peaceful, historic spot with beautiful views over the fjord, often overlooked by visitors rushing to the train station.
Fresvikbreen Glacier Viewpoint
A viewpoint on the southern side of the Sognefjord, across from Aurland, offering a stunning vista of the Fresvik glacier tongue.
It provides a dramatic and easily accessible view of a real glacier flowing into the fjord system, a perspective most visitors miss.
Flåm Culture & Customs
Flåm's culture is shaped by its isolated fjord location, a deep connection to nature, and a history of farming, fishing, and railway construction. It's a place of practicality, quiet resilience, and immense pride in local heritage and sustainable living. The community is small but welcoming to respectful visitors.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always greet with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. A simple 'Hei' (Hi) is fine.
- •Remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a traditional cabin (hytte).
- •Punctuality is highly valued for tours, appointments, and even casual meet-ups.
- •Keep your voice down in public spaces and on nature trails; Norwegians value peace and quiet.
- •Tipping is not expected as service charges are included, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Flåm
How many days should I spend in Flåm?
A minimum of two days is ideal. Spend one day riding the Flåm Railway and exploring the harbor, and a second day on a fjord cruise or safari and visiting Stegastein or Undredal. This allows you to experience the two main attractions without rushing.
Is the Flåm Railway worth the high price?
Absolutely. It's consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful train journeys. The engineering feat, the dramatic change in landscape from fjord to mountain plateau, and the stop at the powerful Kjosfossen waterfall create a unique experience that is the defining activity of the region.
Can I visit Flåm in winter?
Yes, but with major caveats. The scenery is stunningly beautiful under snow, and it's very peaceful. However, many tours and restaurants are closed, daylight is extremely limited, and the Flåm Railway runs a reduced schedule. It's best for independent travelers seeking solitude and winter photography, not for a typical tourist itinerary.
Do I need to book the Flåm Railway in advance?
Yes, it is essential to book as far in advance as possible, especially for travel between June and August. Tickets sell out weeks or months ahead. Spontaneous tickets are virtually impossible to get during peak season.
What is the best way to see the Nærøyfjord?
The traditional car ferry between Flåm and Gudvangen is scenic and affordable. For a more intimate and eco-friendly experience, choose a smaller electric or hybrid sightseeing boat or RIB safari, which can get closer to the cliffs and waterfalls and often include informative commentary.
Is Flåm suitable for families with young children?
Yes, very. The compact village center is stroller-friendly, and activities like the train ride, ferry trip, and visiting the railway museum are engaging for all ages. For older kids, kayaking and easy hikes like the path to Brekkefossen are great options. Just be prepared for variable weather.
Where is the best place to stay in Flåm?
For first-timers without a car, staying in Flåm Sentrum is most convenient for the train and tours. For more peace, authenticity, and better value, consider a cabin or guesthouse in the Flåm Valley (Dalen) or in the nearby town of Aurland, which is only a 10-minute drive away.
Can I hike from Flåm to Myrdal instead of taking the train?
Yes, but it's a serious, strenuous 20km hike with an 864-meter elevation gain, taking 5-7 hours. The trail largely follows the old construction road (Rallarvegen). It's recommended for experienced hikers with proper gear. You can hike up and take the train down, which is the most popular option.
Flåm Itineraries
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