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Aurlandsfjord Guide
Flam, Stegastein & Scenic Norway 2025

Complete guide to Aurlandsfjord, home to Flam village and the world-famous Flam Railway. Discover Stegastein viewpoint, cruises, activities, and where to stay in this stunning fjord.

Category Destinations
Read Time 18 min
Updated Jan 2026
Quick Overview
Destination Guide

Complete guide to Aurlandsfjord, home to Flam village and the world-famous Flam Railway. Discover Stegastein viewpoint, cruises, activities,...

Category Destinations
Read Time 18 min
Latitude 60.9°N
Longitude 7.1°E
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Aurlandsfjord is where Norway’s fjord magic becomes accessible—a stunning branch of mighty Sognefjord that’s home to the charming village of Flam, the legendary Flam Railway, and the jaw-dropping Stegastein viewpoint. At 29 kilometers long and plunging to depths of 962 meters, this fjord serves as the gateway to Norway’s most famous scenic experiences, connecting seamlessly to UNESCO-listed Naeroyfjord and forming the centerpiece of the renowned Norway in a Nutshell tour.

Whether you’re arriving by train from the mountains above, cruising in from the sea, or driving along winding fjord roads, Aurlandsfjord delivers the quintessential Norwegian experience—steep mountains plunging into crystal-clear waters, picturesque villages, and world-class attractions all in one accessible package. With over 800,000 visitors annually passing through tiny Flam village, this region has perfected the art of welcoming travelers while maintaining its authentic Norwegian character.

Aurlandsfjord at a Glance

StatisticData
Length29 km (18 miles)
Maximum depth962 m (3,156 ft)
ConnectionBranch of Sognefjord
Main villageFlam (population ~400)
Annual visitors800,000+
Famous attractionFlam Railway
UNESCO connectionConnects to Naeroyfjord
ViewpointStegastein (650m above fjord)

Key Attractions

Flam Village

Tiny Flam (population approximately 400) punches far above its weight as one of Norway’s most-visited destinations, welcoming over 800,000 visitors annually. This small village at the head of Aurlandsfjord has developed world-class tourism infrastructure while maintaining its authentic Norwegian charm.

What makes Flam special:

  • Flam Railway terminus: The world-famous scenic train ends here
  • Cruise port: Ships dock directly in the village harbor, including large cruise ships
  • Compact charm: Everything is walkable within 10-15 minutes
  • Year-round destination: Activities available in all seasons
  • Gateway location: Starting point for Naeroyfjord cruises and multiple hiking trails

Flam village highlights:

AttractionDescriptionTime Needed
Aegir BrewpubViking-themed microbrewery with craft beers and Norse-inspired cuisine1-2 hours
Flam Railway MuseumFree museum detailing the remarkable railway construction history30-60 minutes
Flam Church17th-century white wooden church in traditional Norwegian style15-30 minutes
Fretheim HotelHistoric hotel (1870s) with excellent dining and fjord viewsDinner or overnight
Flam MarinaKayak, RIB boat, and cruise departures; activity booking centerVaries
Flam BakeryTraditional Norwegian pastries and coffee with fjord views30 minutes

Flam village practical tips:

  • The village is very small—you can walk from the train station to the cruise terminal in 5 minutes
  • Shops and restaurants are limited; the main street has essentials plus souvenir options
  • ATMs are available, though cards are accepted everywhere in Norway
  • Public restrooms are located near the train station and cruise terminal
  • Luggage storage is available at the train station for day visitors
  • WiFi is available at most hotels, restaurants, and the visitor center

Flam Railway (Flamsbana)

Lonely Planet called it “the world’s most scenic train journey,” and after experiencing the Flam Railway’s dramatic descent through mountain landscapes, most travelers agree. The railway descends 863 meters over 20 kilometers from Myrdal to Flam through some of Norway’s most spectacular mountain and fjord scenery.

Railway specifications:

DetailInformation
Length20 km (12.4 miles)
Elevation change863 meters (2,831 ft)
Maximum gradient1:18 (5.5%)
Tunnels20 (18 hand-dug)
DurationApproximately 1 hour
OperationYear-round
DeparturesMultiple daily (seasonal variation)

Railway highlights:

  • 20 tunnels carved through solid rock, 18 of which were hand-dug
  • Kjosfossen waterfall stop—the train pauses for photography at this 225-meter cascade
  • Gradients up to 1:18 (5.5%)—among the steepest adhesion railways in the world
  • Views of deep valleys, rushing rivers, and snow-capped peaks
  • Historic engineering achievement completed in 1940 after 20 years of construction
  • Year-round operation with heated carriages in winter

Flam Railway photography tips:

  • Sit on the left side (facing forward going downhill to Flam) for the best waterfall views
  • The train stops at Kjosfossen waterfall for approximately 5 minutes—be ready
  • Large windows provide excellent photography opportunities from inside
  • Consider booking a return trip for different perspectives
  • Early morning departures have softer light and fewer passengers

Booking the Flam Railway:

  • Peak season (June-August): Book at least 1-2 weeks in advance
  • Shoulder season: Book several days ahead
  • Winter: Usually available day-of, but advance booking recommended
  • Price: Approximately 500-600 NOK one-way, 900-1,100 NOK return
  • Book at: visitflam.com or fjordtours.com
Book Flam Railway

Stegastein Viewpoint

Perched 650 meters above Aurlandsfjord, the Stegastein viewing platform is one of Norway’s most photographed locations and an engineering marvel that seems to defy gravity. The steel and glass structure extends 30 meters out over the fjord, creating a dramatic viewing experience.

Viewpoint details:

DetailInformation
Height650 m above fjord
Platform30 m steel and glass extension
Access15-minute drive from Flam
RoadCounty Road 243 (winding mountain road)
CostFree (parking free)
FacilitiesRestrooms, small information area
Best timeEarly morning or late evening for light

The Stegastein experience: The viewpoint was designed by architects Todd Saunders and Tommie Wilhelmsen as part of Norway’s National Tourist Routes project. The steel ramp extends from the mountainside at a slight upward angle before curving gently and ending with a vertical glass panel. Standing at the edge, you look directly down 650 meters to the fjord below—an exhilarating and slightly vertiginous experience.

Photo tips for Stegastein:

  • The glass panel creates unique reflection opportunities
  • Sunrise light illuminates the opposite mountains beautifully
  • Sunset creates golden hour magic on the fjord waters
  • Winter snow adds dramatic contrast against the fjord’s dark blue
  • Avoid midday in summer when tour buses create crowds
  • The platform itself makes an excellent foreground subject
  • Bring a wide-angle lens (16-35mm) to capture the full scene

Getting to Stegastein:

  • By car: 15 minutes from Flam via County Road 243 (narrow, winding, but well-maintained)
  • By tour: Many Flam-based tours include Stegastein
  • By bus: Seasonal shuttle service from Flam (check visitflam.com)
  • By bike: Possible but challenging (steep road with limited shoulder)

Otternes Farm Village

A cluster of 27 historic farm buildings dating from the 1600s, perched on a hillside above Aurlandsfjord between Flam and Aurland village. Now operating as a living museum and cafe, Otternes offers insight into traditional Norwegian farm life.

What to see at Otternes:

  • Traditional Norwegian timber farm architecture spanning 400 years
  • Stunning fjord views from the hillside location
  • Local food and drinks featuring regional specialties
  • Folk art and crafts demonstrations
  • Guided tours explaining historical life in the fjord region
  • Animals including goats and sheep

Visiting Otternes:

  • Location: Between Flam and Aurland (5-minute drive from either)
  • Season: May to September
  • Duration: 1-2 hours
  • Cost: Small entrance fee; guided tours extra
  • Highlight: Coffee and waffles with fjord views

Water Activities

Fjord Cruises

Cruises from Flam explore both Aurlandsfjord and UNESCO-listed Naeroyfjord, offering perspectives on these dramatic waterways that cannot be experienced from land. The route from Flam to Gudvangen through Naeroyfjord is one of Norway’s most popular cruise experiences.

Popular cruise routes:

RouteDurationHighlightsPrice (NOK)
Flam to Gudvangen2 hoursNaeroyfjord UNESCO, narrowest point500-700
Aurlandsfjord cruise1.5 hoursLocal fjord scenery400-500
Sunset cruise2-3 hoursGolden light on cliffs, photography600-800
Wildlife safari3 hoursEagles, seals, scenery, RIB boat900-1,200

The Flam-Gudvangen cruise: This is the classic Naeroyfjord experience and a highlight of Norway in a Nutshell. The two-hour journey takes you from Aurlandsfjord into the narrow confines of Naeroyfjord, where cliffs rise 1,700 meters on either side and the fjord narrows to just 250 meters. Waterfalls cascade from the heights, historic farms cling to impossible ledges, and the scale of the landscape is almost incomprehensible.

Cruise vessel options:

VesselTypeFeaturesExtra Cost
Standard ferryConventionalCovered seating, outdoor deck, cafeBase price
Vision of the FjordsHybrid catamaranPanoramic windows, quiet operation+50 NOK
Future of the FjordsElectricZero emissions, silent, premium+150 NOK

Electric vessel cruises: Norway leads the world in sustainable fjord tourism. The electric “Future of the Fjords” vessel operates on the Flam-Gudvangen route, offering silent cruising through UNESCO waters. The absence of engine noise enhances wildlife viewing and creates a more contemplative experience. Premium tickets cost approximately 150 NOK extra but are worth it for the enhanced experience.

Kayaking

Kayaking on Aurlandsfjord and into Naeroyfjord offers intimate access to cliffs, waterfalls, and hidden coves that larger vessels cannot approach. The calm, protected waters make kayaking accessible to beginners while providing experienced paddlers with exceptional scenery.

Kayaking options from Flam:

Tour TypeDurationDifficultyHighlights
Guided half-day3-4 hoursBeginnerAurlandsfjord, basic instruction
Full-day expedition6-8 hoursIntermediateNaeroyfjord entry, lunch included
Sunset paddle2-3 hoursBeginnerEvening light, smaller groups
Multi-day camping2-3 daysExperiencedDeep fjord exploration, wild camping
Rental (self-guided)FlexibleExperienced onlyMaximum freedom

Kayaking highlights:

  • Paddle beneath waterfalls and feel the spray
  • Approach cliff faces impossible to reach by larger boats
  • Explore small beaches and coves
  • Wildlife encounters with seals, eagles, and seabirds
  • Photography opportunities from water level
  • The echo effect in narrow Naeroyfjord sections

RIB Boat Tours

High-speed RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) tours combine adrenaline with scenery, covering more distance and approaching waterfalls closer than traditional cruise vessels.

Typical RIB tours:

  • 2-hour fjord safari covering both Aurlandsfjord and Naeroyfjord
  • Wildlife-focused trips seeking eagles, seals, and porpoises
  • Combination packages with hiking or kayaking
  • Sunset adventures with champagne or refreshments
  • Photography-focused tours with optimal positioning

What to expect:

  • Survival suits provided (and necessary—you will get wet)
  • Small groups (typically 8-12 passengers)
  • High-speed sections alternating with scenic cruising
  • Close approaches to waterfalls and wildlife
  • Commentary from experienced local guides
Find Aurlandsfjord Tours

Hiking

Trails from Flam

The Aurlandsfjord region offers hiking opportunities ranging from easy waterfall walks to challenging mountain traverses.

Popular hikes:

HikeDistanceTimeDifficultyHighlights
Brekkefossen3 km1.5 hrsEasy-ModerateBeautiful waterfall, forest trail
Flam to Myrdal20 km6-8 hrsChallengingFollows railway route, stunning views
Aurlandsdalen ValleyVariable4-10 hrsModerate-Hard”Grand Canyon of Norway”
Stegastein via trail4 km2 hrsModerateClimb to viewpoint
Prest Trail5 km2.5 hrsModerateViews over Flam and fjord

Brekkefossen waterfall hike: A popular short hike from Flam to a beautiful waterfall, passing through forest and along streams. The well-marked trail is suitable for families with children over 6-7 years old. The waterfall is most impressive in late spring and early summer when snowmelt increases water flow.

  • Trailhead: Flam village center
  • Distance: 3 km round-trip
  • Elevation gain: 200 meters
  • Time: 1.5-2 hours
  • Best time: May-June for water flow

Rallarvegen (Navvies’ Road): The historic road built during Bergen Railway construction offers one of Norway’s most famous cycle and hiking routes. The route from Finse through Myrdal to Flam descends through spectacular mountain scenery, passing waterfalls, lakes, and high mountain terrain.

  • Full route: Finse to Flam (80 km)
  • Popular section: Myrdal to Flam (20 km)
  • Best for: Cycling or multi-day hiking
  • Season: Late June to September (snow-dependent)
  • Bike rental: Available in Flam and at Myrdal

Villages Around Aurlandsfjord

Aurland

A quieter alternative to Flam, Aurland village is just 10 minutes away by car and offers authentic Norwegian atmosphere with fewer crowds.

Aurland features:

AttractionDescription
Aurland Shoe FactoryTraditional Norwegian shoe production since 1930; shop and tours
Aurland Church13th-century stone church, one of Norway’s oldest
Local shopsArtisan products, traditional crafts
RestaurantsQuieter dining alternatives to Flam
Stegastein accessRoad to viewpoint begins here
Hiking trailsMultiple options into surrounding mountains

Why choose Aurland over Flam:

  • Quieter atmosphere with fewer tourists
  • More authentic village feel
  • Often better restaurant availability
  • Closer to Stegastein viewpoint
  • Good accommodation options at lower prices
  • Base for local hiking and cycling

Undredal

One of Norway’s smallest villages, Undredal is famous for its goat cheese and claims to have more goats than people. A visit here offers a glimpse into traditional Norwegian fjord life.

Undredal highlights:

FeatureDescription
Undredal Stave ChurchSmallest in Scandinavia, seating just 40 people
Goat cheeseLocal specialty, both brown (brunost) and white (geitost)
Goat populationApproximately 500 goats, 80 human residents
Scenic settingFjord-side village with dramatic mountain backdrop
Access15-minute drive from Flam, or by fjord cruise
AtmosphereQuiet, traditional, unchanged for generations

Getting to Undredal:

  • By car: 15 minutes from Flam via tunnel
  • By cruise: Some fjord cruises stop at Undredal
  • By kayak: Approximately 2-3 hours paddling from Flam
  • By foot: Possible via old road/trail (approximately 3 hours)

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June-August)

Best for: Full access to all activities, longest days, warmest weather

AspectDetails
Temperature15-22 degrees Celsius (59-72 degrees Fahrenheit)
DaylightUp to 20 hours
CrowdsHighest—multiple cruise ships daily in Flam
ActivitiesEverything open and operational
Flam RailwayFull schedule (8-10 departures daily)
WaterfallsFlowing but past peak snowmelt

Shoulder Season (May, September-October)

Best for: Fewer crowds, good conditions, photography opportunities

AspectDetails
Temperature8-15 degrees Celsius (46-59 degrees Fahrenheit)
Daylight12-16 hours
CrowdsModerate
ActivitiesMost available
Flam RailwayReduced schedule
SpecialFall colors in September, waterfalls at peak in May

Winter (November-April)

Best for: Snowy scenery, peaceful atmosphere, cozy Norwegian experience

AspectDetails
Temperature-5 to 5 degrees Celsius (23-41 degrees Fahrenheit)
Daylight6-8 hours
CrowdsMinimal
ActivitiesRailway year-round, cruises reduced, limited hiking
SpecialSnow-capped mountains, cozy atmosphere, potential aurora

Winter in Aurlandsfjord: The Flam Railway operates year-round, making winter visits viable. Snow transforms the landscape into a fairytale setting. While water activities are limited and some hiking trails closed, the peaceful atmosphere and potential for northern lights viewing make winter attractive for travelers seeking quieter experiences.

Getting There

By Flam Railway

The classic approach—arriving by train from the Bergen Railway creates an unforgettable entrance.

Journey details:

  • From Oslo: Train to Myrdal (5 hours on Bergen Railway), then Flam Railway (1 hour)
  • From Bergen: Train to Myrdal (2 hours), then Flam Railway (1 hour)
  • Combined ticket: Available through vy.no or fjordtours.com

By Car

From Bergen: 2.5-3 hours via E16 and the Laerdal Tunnel

Driving highlights:

  • Laerdal Tunnel (world’s longest road tunnel, 24.5 km)—an experience in itself with artistic light installations
  • Mountain passes with scenic viewpoints (weather dependent)
  • Multiple fjord views along the route
  • Flexibility to stop at attractions en route

From Oslo: 5-6 hours via E16

By Cruise/Ferry

Express boat from Bergen: 5.5 hours scenic coastal route

  • Departs Bergen harbor
  • Scenic journey through fjords and coastal waters
  • Arrives directly at Flam harbor
  • Operates primarily May-September

Fjord cruise connections: From Gudvangen (bus connection to Voss), Bergen, and other fjord villages

By Tour

Norway in a Nutshell: Norway’s most famous tour combines all transport in one package—the easiest option for first-time visitors wanting to experience the best of the region without planning logistics.

  • Round-trip from Bergen: Full day or overnight options
  • Round-trip from Oslo: Full day or multi-day options
  • Price: Approximately 2,000-3,500 NOK depending on route and class
  • Includes: All trains, ferry, and bus connections
  • Book at: fjordtours.com or norwaynutshell.com

Where to Stay

Flam

AccommodationTypeFeaturesPrice Range (NOK)
Fretheim HotelLuxuryHistoric (1870s), fine dining, fjord views2,000-4,000
Flamsbrygga HotelMid-rangeModern, waterfront, central1,500-2,500
Flam Marina & ApartmentsMid-rangeSelf-catering, waterfront location1,200-2,000
Heimly PensjonatBudgetSimple, friendly, good breakfast800-1,200
Flam CampingBudgetCabins, tent sites, waterfront400-800

Fretheim Hotel: The grande dame of Flam accommodation, Fretheim Hotel dates from the 1870s and offers the region’s most refined experience. The historic building has been carefully modernized while maintaining period character. The restaurant serves excellent Norwegian cuisine with fjord views.

Flam accommodation tips:

  • Book well in advance for summer (June-August)—Flam has limited rooms
  • Consider Aurland or Undredal for quieter alternatives
  • Camping offers excellent value with fjord views
  • Self-catering apartments useful given limited restaurant options
  • Many accommodations include breakfast

Aurland

AccommodationTypeFeaturesPrice Range (NOK)
Aurland FjordhotellMid-rangeFjord views, quiet location1,200-2,000
Vangsgaarden GuesthouseBudgetHistoric building, central800-1,200
Private rentalsVariousApartments and cabins via Airbnb600-1,500

Camping

Flam Camping: Waterfront location with direct fjord views, offering both cabins of varying standards and traditional tent/caravan sites. Facilities include showers, kitchen, and small shop. Walking distance to Flam village center.

Practical Information

Costs (2025 estimates)

ItemPrice (NOK)Price (USD)
Flam Railway round-trip900-1,10090-110
Flam Railway one-way500-60050-60
Naeroyfjord cruise one-way500-70050-70
Electric vessel upgrade+150+15
Kayak tour (3 hours)700-90070-90
RIB boat safari900-1,20090-120
Norway in a Nutshell (day)2,000-2,800200-280
Stegastein (transport from Flam)200-30020-30
Dinner at Aegir Brewpub400-60040-60

Facilities in Flam

Services available:

  • Supermarket: Basic supplies available at small shop
  • Restaurants: Several options; booking recommended in summer
  • ATMs: Available (cards widely accepted everywhere)
  • WiFi: Available at hotels and cafes
  • Parking: Paid parking in village center (approximately 200 NOK/day)
  • Visitor center: Tourism information, booking assistance
  • Luggage storage: Available at train station
  • Public restrooms: Near train station and harbor

Tips for Visiting

  1. Book ahead: Summer accommodation and popular restaurants fill quickly—book 2-4 weeks ahead for July-August
  2. Start early: Beat cruise ship crowds at popular spots by arriving before 10 AM
  3. Layer up: Weather changes rapidly in fjord areas; temperatures on water feel colder
  4. Combine wisely: Flam Railway + Naeroyfjord cruise = perfect day combination
  5. Explore villages: Undredal and Aurland offer quieter alternatives to busy Flam
  6. Consider overnight: Day visitors miss the peaceful evening fjord atmosphere
  7. Electric upgrade: The Future of the Fjords vessel is worth the extra cost
  8. Check schedules: Train and cruise departures vary by season

Combining with Other Destinations

Perfect Pairings

DestinationConnectionWhy Combine
NaeroyfjordDirect cruiseUNESCO World Heritage, connected by 2-hour cruise
BergenTrain/boatGateway city, historic Bryggen wharf
GeirangerfjordTour/driveOther UNESCO fjord, different character
HardangerfjordDriveTrolltunga hike, fruit orchards
VossTrain/busAdventure sports, fjord access
LaerdalDriveStave church, historic village

Suggested Itinerary

DayExperienceAccommodation
1Arrive Flam via Flam Railway from BergenFlam
2Naeroyfjord cruise + Stegastein viewpointFlam or Aurland
3Kayaking morning + Undredal afternoonFlam
4Continue to Bergen or Geirangerfjord

Extended Fjord Itinerary (1 Week)

DayLocationHighlights
1BergenArrive, explore Bryggen, Mt. Floyen
2Bergen to FlamFlam Railway, evening in village
3FlamNaeroyfjord cruise, Stegastein
4FlamKayaking, Undredal, hiking
5Flam to GeirangerScenic drive via Laerdal, Trollstigen
6GeirangerGeirangerfjord cruise, viewpoints
7ReturnVia Alesund or Bergen

Photography Guide

Best Photo Locations

LocationBest TimeSubjectTips
StegasteinSunrise/sunsetFjord panoramaArrive early, bring wide lens
KjosfossenTrain stopWaterfallBe ready, 5-minute stop
Naeroyfjord narrowestMiddayCliff wallsBoth sides, move around deck
Flam harborEveningVillage reflectionCalm evenings best
OtternesAfternoonHistoric farmsInclude fjord in background
UndredalMorningVillage, churchEarly for best light
  • Wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for fjord panoramas and Stegastein
  • Telephoto lens (70-200mm) for waterfalls and wildlife
  • Polarizing filter for water reflections
  • Extra batteries (cold drains them faster)
  • Waterproof bag for cruise/kayak
  • Tripod for evening/low light

Cruise Comparison: Regional Options

For travelers planning Norwegian fjord experiences, here’s how Aurlandsfjord cruises compare:

RouteDurationPrice (NOK)HighlightsBest For
Flam-Gudvangen (Naeroyfjord)2 hours500-700UNESCO, narrowest pointFirst-timers
Geirangerfjord sightseeing1.5 hours450-650Seven Sisters waterfallWaterfall lovers
Lysefjord from Stavanger3 hours500-700Preikestolen viewHikers
Hardangerfjord express2-4 hours600-900Orchards, VoringfossenNature lovers
Hurtigruten segment12+ hours1,500+Multiple portsMulti-day travelers
Plan Your Fjord Adventure

Final Thoughts

Aurlandsfjord perfectly balances accessibility with authenticity. While Flam sees many visitors—over 800,000 annually—the fjord retains its magic: towering cliffs plunging 962 meters into crystal-clear waters, the dramatic Stegastein viewpoint hovering 650 meters above, and that uniquely Norwegian combination of dramatic nature and welcoming villages.

The Flam Railway alone is worth the journey, regularly rated among the world’s most scenic train experiences. Combine it with a cruise through UNESCO-listed Naeroyfjord, Stegastein’s vertiginous views, and a quiet stop in Undredal for traditional goat cheese, and you have an unforgettable fjord experience that captures the essence of Norway.

For first-time visitors to Norwegian fjords, Aurlandsfjord represents the ideal introduction. For returning travelers, it offers depths yet to explore—literal depths of 962 meters, and the figurative depths of a region that rewards slow travel and repeat visits. The Norway in a Nutshell tour may bring you here once; the magic of Aurlandsfjord will bring you back.

God tur! (Have a good trip!)


For official information, visit Visit Flam and Fjord Tours. Visitor statistics from regional tourism authorities.

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