Flåm
About Flåm
Flåm is a tiny village at the inner end of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the mighty Sognefjord — the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. Despite its small size (around 350 inhabitants), Flåm is one of Norway's most visited destinations, famous for the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana), considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
Surrounded by steep mountains, thundering waterfalls, and deep green valleys, Flåm is a paradise for nature lovers. The village is also a popular cruise ship port and a key stop on the famous "Norway in a Nutshell" tour route.
Useful links:
Quick Tips
- Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK). Card payments accepted everywhere. Very few ATMs — bring a card.
- Transport: Arrive by car, the Flåm Railway from Myrdal (connecting to the Bergen Railway), or ferry from Bergen. The "Norway in a Nutshell" tour combines train, bus, and ferry.
- Tipping: Not expected. Rounding up at restaurants is appreciated.
- Flåm Railway: Book tickets in advance, especially in summer. The 20 km journey from Myrdal descends 866 meters through 20 tunnels. Sit on the left side going down for the best views.
- Timing: Flåm is very small — most visitors spend half a day to a full day. Stay overnight to experience the village after the cruise ships depart for a much quieter atmosphere.
Interesting Places to Visit
Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana)
One of the world's steepest and most scenic railway lines. The 20 km journey from Flåm to Myrdal climbs 866 meters through dramatic mountain scenery, past waterfalls and through 20 tunnels. The train stops at Kjosfossen waterfall for photos. About 1 hour each way.
Stegastein Viewpoint
A dramatic architectural platform extending 30 meters out from the mountainside, 650 meters above the Aurlandsfjord. Reached by car or bus from Flåm (about 20 minutes). The glass-fronted railing creates a thrilling sense of floating above the fjord. Free access.
Nærøyfjord (UNESCO World Heritage)
A narrow branch of the Sognefjord, only 250 meters wide at its narrowest point, with cliffs rising 1,700 meters on either side. UNESCO-listed for its outstanding natural beauty. Explore by kayak, ferry, or RIB boat from Flåm.
Aurlandsfjord Cruise
Take a scenic fjord cruise from Flåm through the Aurlandsfjord to Gudvangen. Dramatic cliff walls, waterfalls, and pristine waters. Part of the "Norway in a Nutshell" route. About 2 hours one way. Electric ferries available.
Flåm Railway Museum
A free museum documenting the incredible engineering feat of building the Flåm Railway. Learn how workers spent 20 years hand-drilling tunnels through mountains. Located right at the Flåm station. Allow 30–45 minutes.
Otternes Farm Village
A cluster of 27 restored farm buildings from the 1700s perched on a hillside above the Aurlandsfjord. Stunning fjord views and a glimpse into traditional Norwegian farm life. Small café serving local treats. About 5 km from Flåm.
Undredal
A tiny fjord village (population ~100) accessible by car or boat from Flåm. Famous for its brown goat cheese (brunost), Norway's smallest stave church (from 1147), and the goats that roam the streets. A charming half-day trip.
When to Visit
Flåm is surrounded by mountains, creating its own microclimate:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Snow melting from the peaks feeds spectacular waterfalls (2–12°C). The Flåm Railway runs year-round. Fewer tourists, dramatic scenery with snow-capped mountains.
- Waterfalls at peak flow from snowmelt
- Quieter than summer, good deals
- Flåm Railway runs daily
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Peak season. Warmest (12–20°C), longest days. All activities available — kayaking, hiking, cycling, fjord cruises. Very busy with cruise ships, especially July.
- Full range of fjord activities
- Kayaking on the Nærøyfjord
- Cycling the Rallarvegen road
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Beautiful fall colors in the valleys (2–12°C). Cruise ships thin out, quieter atmosphere. September is still warm enough for most activities.
- Fall colors in Flåmsdalen valley
- Quieter Flåm Railway rides
- Apple harvest season in the region
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Snow-covered fjord landscape (−5 to 3°C). Very quiet and peaceful. The Flåm Railway operates year-round with magical winter scenery. Fewer services, but deeply atmospheric.
- Winter Flåm Railway through snowy mountains
- Peaceful, nearly deserted village
- Snowshoeing in Flåmsdalen
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Flåm is tiny, so dining options are limited. Here are the best choices:
Flåmstova$ – $$
The most popular restaurant in Flåm, located by the station. Norwegian comfort food — fish soup, meatballs, and salmon. Mains 150–250 NOK (~€13–22). Large portions, reliable quality.
Ægir BrewPub$$ – $$$
A Viking-themed brewpub in a stunning wooden longhouse. Their own craft beers brewed on-site paired with Viking-inspired dishes. Mains 200–320 NOK (~€17–28). A unique dining experience — book ahead in summer.
Toget Café (The Train Café)$
Casual café at the Flåm Railway station with sandwiches, waffles, cakes, and coffee. Light meals 80–130 NOK (~€7–11). Perfect for a quick bite before or after the train journey.
Brekke Gard Café (Undredal)$
Small farm café in nearby Undredal, famous for their brunost (brown goat cheese) tasting and waffles. Light bites 60–120 NOK (~€5–10). Taste the locally produced cheese where it's made.
Fretheim Hotel Restaurant$$
The grand hotel restaurant with fjord views and a focus on local ingredients — wild salmon, lamb, and game. Mains 220–350 NOK (~€19–30). The dinner buffet is excellent value for a higher-end meal.
Otternes Café$
Charming café at the historic Otternes farm village serving homemade waffles, cakes, and local specialties. Treats 50–100 NOK (~€4–9). Beautiful fjord views from the hillside terrace. Open summer only.