It is only 20 kilometers (12 miles) long. It takes just under an hour. But the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) is often voted the most incredible train journey on the planet.
Why? Because in that short distance, you descend from the high mountain plateau of Myrdal (867 meters) down to the deep blue Aurlandsfjord in Flåm (2 meters).
It is a masterpiece of engineering and nature. Here is how to experience it.
The Route: Myrdal to Flåm
This is not a long-distance train. It is a branch line connecting the main Oslo-Bergen railway to the fjords.
- Start: Myrdal Station (High mountains, often snowy).
- End: Flåm Station (Lush green valley, sea level).
- Gradient: It is one of the steepest standard-gauge railway lines in the world (5.5% gradient).
The Highlights
During the 50-minute ride, your face will be glued to the window.
- The Kjosfossen Waterfall: The train actually makes a scheduled stop here! You can get off on a viewing platform to take photos of the massive, roaring waterfall right next to the tracks. (Look out for the “Huldra”—a legendary seductive forest creature who dances by the falls during tourist season).
- The Valley Views: You pass through 20 tunnels. Between them, you get glimpses of vertical cliffs, tiny farmhouses clinging to the slopes, and the rushing river below.
- Flåm Village: The destination itself is a postcard-perfect village sitting at the end of the Aurlandsfjord.
How to Fit This into Your Trip (DIY vs. Tour)
You will often hear about the “Norway in a Nutshell” tour.
- The Tour: It’s a bundled ticket that includes the train from Oslo/Bergen, the Flåm Railway, and a fjord cruise.
- The DIY Hack: You can book these exact same tickets individually yourself (often cheaper and more flexible).
Step-by-Step DIY:
- Take the regular train from Oslo or Bergen to Myrdal.
- Switch platforms at Myrdal (you can’t miss it, everyone does it) to the vintage green Flåm Railway.
- Ride down to Flåm.
- Spend the night or take a Fjord Cruise ferry to Gudvangen.
Best Side to Sit?
The views are stunning on both sides, but seasoned travelers recommend sitting on the RIGHT side when traveling down from Myrdal to Flåm (and the LEFT side if going up).
Rail Pass Validity
- Interrail / Eurail: The Flåm Railway is NOT fully included in the pass because it is a private tourist line.
- Discount: However, pass holders usually get a 30% discount on the ticket price. You buy this at the station or verify on the Vy.no website.
Summary
The Flåm Railway is short, steep, and spectacular. It is the perfect bridge between the mountains and the fjords. Don’t just ride it down—spend some time in Flåm to soak up the Viking vibes.
Where to stay? Flåm is tiny and hotels sell out months in advance. Check availability on Booking.com ASAP.
