Nestled in the heart of Norway’s fjord country, Flåm might just be one of the most picturesque villages I’ve ever visited. This tiny town, with a population of only about 500 people, is surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and the stunning Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the famous Sognefjord.
Despite its small size, Flåm attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re into hiking, cruising, or just soaking in the natural beauty of the fjords, Flåm offers an authentic Norwegian experience that feels both adventurous and serene.
Getting to Flam
I drove in from Oslo, a twisty 4.5-hour haul through the heart of Norway’s interior. It’s a beautiful drive that takes you through the Laerdal Tunnel, which, at just over 15 miles, is the world’s longest road tunnel. It’s also worth a stop at the Borgund Stave Church to see one of the most intricate stave churches in Norway. If you’re not driving, trains from Oslo or Bergen drop you right in Flåm’s center—about 7 hours from Oslo, less from Bergen. There’s also a ferry option from nearby towns like Gudvangen, which I’ll get to later. Driving gave me flexibility, though, and I’d do it again just for the thrill of those mountain roads.About Flam and Where to Stay
Flåm’s lodging is limited thanks to its size. The Flamsbrygga is a solid choice—walking distance to everything, I stayed there and liked the fjord-view balcony. The Fretheim Hotel and Flam Marina and Apartments are essentially the only other options in Flam town limits.
Here’s the deal: book early. Flåm’s small, summer (and even into fall) means rooms vanish fast. I’ve seen hotels sell out 6 months in advance. Wait too long, and you’re stuck in Aurland (10 minutes away) or hunting for a campsite. I’ve helped travers find rooms near there only to find the nearest place an hour away. Don’t risk it—secure your spot well in advance.
Things to do
Flåm’s got a handful of standout activities. Start with the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fjord is narrow, dramatic, and impossibly beautiful, with steep mountains that plunge straight into the emerald-green waters.
The best way to experience the Nærøyfjord is by boat. I took a fjord cruise from Flåm to
Gudvangen, and it was one of the highlights of the trip. The boat glided slowly through the fjord, giving us plenty of time to take in the waterfalls and tiny farmhouses perched on cliffs.
If you prefer a more active experience, you can also kayak the fjord. We saw several small groups paddling along the calm waters, and it looked like an amazing way to get even closer to nature.
Flåm’s hikes are a big draw. The Flåm Valley trail’s an easy one—starts near town, follows an old rail path along the river, and runs about 5 miles round-trip to Berekvam. It’s flat, takes 2 hours, and offers waterfalls and green hills.
For a bit more of a challenge, try Brekkefossen, a waterfall hike just outside Flåm. The trail starts near the church—look for signs—and climbs steeply for 45 minutes. It’s muddy after rain, so good shoes are a must. The top’s rewarding—waterfall crashing with the fjord below.
The Aurlandsdalen Valley hike’s another option, though it’s a full day—6 to 8 hours. It’s got epic views. If you’ve got the stamina, it’s highly rated.
There are plenty of other hikes in the area from easy to more challenging. And if you have a car with you, it will open up significantly more options.
Another activity that is easier with a car is the Stegastien Viewpoint, a 30-minute drive up a twisty road from Flåm. It’s a platform 2,000 feet above the Aurlandsfjord—no entry fee, just a small parking lot. The view’s incredible—fjord stretching out below, cliffs all around. I went early to beat the buses, and it was a highlight. Not to worry if you don’t have a car, there are bus tours that depart from Flam daily in the summer.
For a quick snack, the Flåm Bakery is a must. Their cinnamon rolls and fresh bread are perfect for a morning treat or to take along on a hike.
It’s worth taking 20-30 minutes to pop into the Flåm Railway Museum, which is free to enter. The museum offers insight into the construction of the railway, including vintage photos, models, and a retired train car you can walk through. It’s small but interesting, and kids will enjoy playing with the train models and learning about how the railway was built through such rugged terrain.
The Flåmsbana Railway: Worth It?
The Flåmsbana (Flåm Railway) is often marketed as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, and for many travelers, it’s a bucket-list experience and the reason they’re in Flam. The train travels from Flåm to Myrdal, climbing 863 meters (2,831 feet) over just 20 km (12 miles). 
The journey takes you past waterfalls, mountains, and lush valleys, with a stop at the stunning Kjosfossen waterfall, where you might catch a glimpse of the mythical Huldra dancer.
However, if you’re driving through Norway, the experience might not feel quite as special. Many of the views you’ll see on the train are similar to what you’ll see on the roads leading into Flåm. The train is also quite pricey and the crowds can be intense during peak season.
If you’re already doing a lot of scenic driving through the fjord region, you might want to skip the Flåmsbana and instead invest your time and money into a fjord cruise or a hike.
Final Thoughts: Is Flåm Worth Visiting?
Flåm is a small village. Don’t expect lots of amenities if you do decide to stay there. With a small market, a handful of restaurants and a few hotels, it’s not a town built for a lengthy stay. But it offers a range of outdoor experiences that you can enjoy in a day or two.
I left Flam happy that I stayed overnight and had a car with me. If I did it again, I would skip the Flamsbanna and add in a hike, or zipline. How would you visit Flam if given the opportunity?