In just one hour, the Flam Railway (Flamsbana) delivers what many consider the world’s most spectacular train journey. Rising from just 2 meters above sea level at the Aurlandsfjord to 867 meters at Myrdal station, this engineering marvel passes through 20 tunnels—18 of them hand-carved through solid rock—alongside thundering waterfalls, and through landscapes so dramatic they seem almost impossible. The 865-meter descent packs more natural wonder per kilometer than almost any other rail line on Earth.
Lonely Planet named the Flam Railway “the world’s most incredible train journey”—and with approximately 800,000 passengers annually at historical peak, travelers worldwide clearly agree. This 20-kilometer route, completed in 1940 after 20 years of construction, represents one of Norway’s greatest engineering achievements and remains one of Scandinavia’s most visited attractions.
According to Fjord Tours, the Flam Railway is celebrated as “one of the most scenic train rides in the world,” cutting through “some of Norway’s most dramatic mountain landscapes” on one of the steepest standard gauge railways ever constructed.
Journey Overview and Engineering Marvel
Route Details: By the Numbers
The Flam Railway represents one of the most impressive engineering achievements in Norwegian railway history. Every statistic tells a story of human determination against seemingly impossible terrain.
| Route Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Route | Flam (2m) to Myrdal (867m) |
| Distance | 20 km (12.4 miles) |
| Duration | Approximately 1 hour each way |
| Elevation Change | 865 meters (2,838 feet) |
| Maximum Gradient | 5.5% (1:18) |
| Tunnels | 20 total (18 hand-carved) |
| Total Tunnel Length | 6 km (30% of route) |
| Construction Period | 1923-1940 (20 years) |
| Year-Round Operation | Yes |
| Annual Passengers | Approximately 800,000 (historical peak) |
The 20-Year Construction Epic
Building the Flam Railway required extraordinary perseverance and engineering innovation:
The Challenge:
- Connect the Bergen Railway at Myrdal with the Sognefjord at Flam
- Overcome 865 meters of elevation in just 20 kilometers
- Navigate terrain deemed impossible by many engineers
- Carve through solid mountain rock without modern machinery
The Achievement:
- 20-year construction (1923-1940): Work began in 1923 and was completed in 1940, surviving economic depression and World War II
- Hand-carved tunnels: 18 of the 20 tunnels were excavated by hand through solid mountain rock using manual labor, pickaxes, and dynamite
- Spiral engineering: One tunnel (the Nali Tunnel) makes a complete 180-degree turn inside the mountain, allowing the train to descend safely at constant gradient
- Extreme gradient: 5.5% grade maintained over 80% of the track at maximum steepness
- Altitude adaptation: From sea level to high mountain plateau in just 20 kilometers
Human Cost: The construction employed hundreds of workers who lived in camps along the mountainside. Many sections required workers suspended on ropes against cliff faces, drilling by hand into rock that would become tunnel walls. The completed railway stands as a monument to their determination.
What Makes This Railway Unique Worldwide
The Flam Railway holds several distinctions among the world’s railways:
| Record | Detail |
|---|---|
| Steepest Standard Gauge | Among the world’s steepest at 5.5% gradient |
| Hand-Carved Tunnels | 18 tunnels carved manually through rock |
| Elevation per Kilometer | 43 meters drop per km average |
| Recognition | Lonely Planet “World’s Most Incredible Train Journey” |
| Passenger Volume | One of Norway’s most visited attractions |
The Complete Journey Experience
From Flam to Myrdal: Stage by Stage
Stage 1: Flam Departure (0-2 km, Elevation 2-100m)
The journey begins at sea level in Flam village, nestled at the inner end of the Aurlandsfjord—a branch of the mighty Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord at 204 kilometers long and 1,308 meters deep.
| What You’ll See | Description |
|---|---|
| Flam Station | Historic wooden station building |
| Village Center | Traditional Norwegian wooden houses |
| Aurlandsfjord | Norway’s deepest fjord stretching to the west |
| Flam River | Crystal-clear waters alongside tracks |
| Agricultural Land | Small farms on valley floor |
Stage 2: Lower Valley Climb (2-7 km, Elevation 100-400m)
As the train climbs through the Flam Valley, the scenery transforms dramatically:
- Lush green valleys giving way to steeper terrain
- The sparkling blue Flam River rushing alongside the tracks
- Small farms on seemingly impossible slopes
- Traditional Norwegian wooden houses and barns
- Abandoned farms high on mountain ledges
- First tunnels introducing the engineering achievement
Stage 3: Kjosfossen and Mid-Valley (7-12 km, Elevation 400-669m)
The signature experience of the journey—the Kjosfossen waterfall stop.
Stage 4: Upper Valley and Myrdal Approach (12-20 km, Elevation 669-867m)
The final ascent reveals:
- Alpine terrain above treeline
- Dramatic rock formations
- Multiple tunnels in rapid succession
- The famous spiral tunnel inside the mountain
- Snow patches visible even in summer
- Myrdal station appearing on the mountain plateau
Kjosfossen Waterfall: The Signature Stop
The train’s five-minute stop at Kjosfossen waterfall is the highlight that makes this journey unique among the world’s great train rides. Passengers disembark onto a platform directly facing the 93-meter waterfall as it thunders into the valley below.
| Kjosfossen Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Waterfall Height | 93 meters (305 feet) |
| Stop Duration | Approximately 5 minutes |
| Viewing Platform | Direct waterfall view, spray possible |
| Accessibility | Only reachable by train |
| Best Season | May-July (peak flow from snowmelt) |
| Winter Experience | Frozen cascade, icicles |
The Huldra Legend:
During summer months (typically June-August), a musical performance features the Huldra—a mythical forest spirit from Norwegian folklore. This enchanting figure appears on the rocks beside the waterfall as haunting music plays through speakers built into the cliff face.
According to Norse mythology, the Huldra is a beautiful forest creature associated with seduction and the wilderness. She appears human from the front but has a cow’s tail (which she hides from suitors). The performance captures the magical, otherworldly atmosphere of the waterfall and connects visitors to Norway’s rich folklore tradition.
Photography Tips at Kjosfossen:
- Exit quickly to secure viewing position
- Platform can be crowded; move to edges for clearer shots
- Waterfall spray affects cameras; protect equipment
- Video captures the scale better than photos
- Look for rainbows in the mist on sunny days
The 20 Tunnels
The train enters and exits tunnels repeatedly, each emergence revealing new dramatic vistas. The engineering achievement becomes apparent when you realize workers carved 18 of these tunnels by hand over two decades.
| Notable Tunnels | Details |
|---|---|
| Nali Tunnel | 180-degree spiral turn inside mountain |
| Total Tunnel Length | 6 km (30% of route underground) |
| Longest Tunnel | Approximately 1.3 km |
| Hand-Carved | 18 of 20 tunnels |
| Machine-Bored | 2 tunnels only |
The Spiral Tunnel Experience:
One tunnel makes a complete 180-degree spiral turn inside the mountain—a remarkable engineering solution to the extreme gradient. As the train enters, you are facing one direction; when you emerge, you are facing the opposite direction but significantly lower in elevation. Watch through the window as daylight disappears, the train curves through darkness, and light returns from an unexpected angle.
Myrdal Station: Mountain Junction
Myrdal is a mountain station at 867 meters elevation, serving as the crucial junction between the Flam Railway and the main Bergen-Oslo railway line (Bergensbanen).
| Myrdal Station | Information |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 867 meters (2,844 feet) |
| Function | Junction with Bergen Railway |
| Connections | Bergen (2.5 hrs), Oslo (5 hrs), Finse (1.5 hrs) |
| Facilities | Cafe Rallaren, toilets, waiting area |
| Character | Remote mountain station, no road access |
Activities at Myrdal:
| Activity | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Continue to Bergen | 2.5 hours | Bergen Railway connection |
| Continue to Oslo | 5 hours | Bergen Railway connection |
| Return to Flam | 1 hour | Next Flam Railway departure |
| Rallarvegen Cycling | Full day | Famous cycling/walking route |
| Cafe Rallaren | 30+ minutes | Refreshments and warm-up |
Cafe Rallaren:
- Seasonal operation (typically May-September)
- Hot drinks, sandwiches, waffles
- Stunning mountain views
- Pre-order lunch available (24 hours advance notice required)
- Heated indoor seating
2025 Ticket Prices and Booking
Current Prices (2025 Season)
Summer Season (May - September):
| Ticket Type | One Way | Return | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults | 510 NOK (~$47) | 730 NOK (~$67) | Standard adult fare |
| Children 6-17 | 255 NOK (~$23) | 365 NOK (~$34) | 50% of adult fare |
| Children 0-5 | FREE | FREE | No ticket required |
| Family (2+2) | Discounted | Discounted | Check availability |
Winter Season (October - April):
| Ticket Type | One Way | Return | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults | 370 NOK (~$34) | 530 NOK (~$49) | Reduced winter rate |
| Children 6-17 | 185 NOK (~$17) | 265 NOK (~$24) | 50% of adult fare |
| Children 0-5 | FREE | FREE | No ticket required |
Available Discounts
| Discount Type | Savings | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Eurail/Interrail Pass | 30% off | Valid pass required, one-way only |
| Group Bookings | Variable | 15+ passengers, contact directly |
| Package Combinations | 10-20% | Train + cruise deals |
| Winter Season | 25-30% | October-April automatically |
| Children 6-17 | 50% | Automatic |
| Children 0-5 | 100% (FREE) | No ticket needed |
Where to Book
Online (Recommended):
| Booking Site | Best For | URL |
|---|---|---|
| norwaysbest.com | Round trips, packages | Official Flam partner |
| vy.no | Combined journeys | Norwegian railways |
| flamsbana.no | Direct booking | Official Flam Railway |
| fjordtours.com | Norway in a Nutshell | Package tours |
In Person:
- Any staffed Norwegian train station
- Flam Visitor Center
- Myrdal station (limited services)
- Bergen or Oslo main stations
Booking Tips:
- Tickets available up to 120 days in advance
- Book early for summer travel (June-August essential)
- Consider round-trip for best value per journey
- Check connection times carefully if continuing to Bergen/Oslo
- Download tickets to phone for easy access
- Print backup if concerned about phone battery/signal
Budget Planning
Complete Flam Experience Budget (Per Person):
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flam Railway Return | 730 NOK | 730 NOK | 730 NOK |
| Fjord Cruise (optional) | 550 NOK | 700 NOK | 950 NOK |
| Lunch in Flam | 150 NOK | 300 NOK | 500 NOK |
| Accommodation | 800 NOK | 1,500 NOK | 3,000 NOK |
| Extras/Souvenirs | 100 NOK | 300 NOK | 600 NOK |
| Total (Day Trip) | ~1,530 NOK | ~2,030 NOK | ~2,780 NOK |
| Total (Overnight) | ~2,330 NOK | ~3,530 NOK | ~5,780 NOK |
Schedule and Timetable
Operating Hours by Season
Peak Summer (June - August):
| Direction | First Train | Last Train | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flam to Myrdal | ~7:30 AM | ~7:00 PM | Every 45-60 min |
| Myrdal to Flam | ~8:30 AM | ~8:00 PM | Every 45-60 min |
| Daily Departures | 8-12 each direction |
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October):
| Direction | First Train | Last Train | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flam to Myrdal | ~8:00 AM | ~5:00 PM | Every 90-120 min |
| Myrdal to Flam | ~9:00 AM | ~6:00 PM | Every 90-120 min |
| Daily Departures | 5-8 each direction |
Winter (November - March):
| Direction | First Train | Last Train | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flam to Myrdal | ~9:00 AM | ~4:00 PM | Every 2-3 hours |
| Myrdal to Flam | ~10:00 AM | ~5:00 PM | Every 2-3 hours |
| Daily Departures | 4-6 each direction |
Connection Times at Myrdal
Myrdal serves as the junction with the Bergen-Oslo railway (Bergensbanen):
| Destination | Journey Time | Typical Departures |
|---|---|---|
| Bergen | 2.5 hours | 3-5 daily |
| Oslo | 5 hours | 3-5 daily |
| Voss | 1 hour | Multiple daily |
| Finse | 1.5 hours | Multiple daily |
| Geilo | 2.5 hours | Multiple daily |
Check vy.no for current connection schedules and to book through tickets.
Connection Tips:
- Minimum 15 minutes for platform change at Myrdal
- Summer connections usually well-coordinated
- Winter may require longer waits
- Bergen Railway is also highly scenic—enjoy the ride
Photography Guide
Best Photography Opportunities
| Subject | Location | Timing | Equipment Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kjosfossen Waterfall | Photo stop | Midday good; any light works | Wide angle, fast shutter |
| Valley Views | Throughout | Golden hours best | Wide angle |
| Tunnel Exits | After each tunnel | Light contrast moments | Fast lens, ready settings |
| Mountain Scenery | Upper section | Clear weather | Telephoto for peaks |
| Flam Village | Departure/arrival | Any time | Standard/wide |
| Train Itself | Stations | Before/after journey | Any lens |
Camera Settings Recommendations
For Moving Train:
- Shutter speed: 1/500s or faster
- ISO: Auto or 400-1600
- Aperture: f/5.6-f/8 for depth
- Continuous shooting mode
- Focus on landscape, not window
For Kjosfossen:
- Shutter speed: 1/250s (freeze) or 1/15s (blur water)
- Tripod impossible due to crowds
- Wide angle essential (16-35mm)
- Protect from spray
Window Photography Tips:
- Clean your window section before departure
- Shoot through open windows when available
- Minimize reflections with lens hood against glass
- Darker clothing reduces reflections
- Turn off all lights near window
Drone Photography
Drone usage in Norway requires:
- Registration with Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority
- Flight under 120 meters altitude
- Line of sight operation
- Not near airports, crowds, or restricted areas
- Many locations around Flam restricted—check regulations
Combining with Other Experiences
Norway in a Nutshell
The classic combination tour showcasing the best of Fjord Norway:
Full Itinerary:
- Bergen Railway (Oslo or Bergen to Myrdal)—scenic mountain crossing
- Flam Railway (Myrdal to Flam)—the famous descent
- Fjord Cruise (Flam to Gudvangen)—UNESCO Naeroyfjord
- Bus (Gudvangen to Voss)—dramatic valley drive
- Train (Voss to Bergen or Oslo)—return
Norway in a Nutshell Prices (2025):
| Route | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Flam-Flam Short Loop | 1,595 NOK |
| Oslo-Bergen One Way | 2,250-2,880 NOK |
| Bergen Round Trip | 1,800-2,400 NOK |
| DIY Booking Savings | 30-35% (~400-800 NOK) |
Flam Railway + Naeroyfjord Cruise Day Trip
Perfect combination from Flam:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Flam Railway to Myrdal |
| 10:00 AM | Arrive Myrdal, explore/coffee |
| 11:00 AM | Return train to Flam |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch in Flam |
| 2:00 PM | Fjord cruise to Gudvangen |
| 4:00 PM | Return cruise to Flam |
| 6:00 PM | Evening in Flam |
Rallarvegen Cycling Route
The historic construction workers’ road from Finse to Flam:
| Rallarvegen Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Route | Finse to Flam |
| Distance | 82 km (51 miles) |
| Season | June-September (snow dependent) |
| Difficulty | Moderate (mostly downhill) |
| Bike Transport | Reserve space on Flam Railway |
| Bike Rental | Available in Finse |
Cycling Itinerary:
- Train from Flam to Myrdal
- Train from Myrdal to Finse (1.5 hours)
- Cycle Rallarvegen: Finse to Myrdal (40 km, challenging)
- Continue Myrdal to Flam (42 km, scenic descent)
- Return bike in Flam
Practical Information
What to Bring
Essential Items:
- Camera with charged batteries
- Layers of clothing (mountain significantly cooler)
- Valid ticket (paper or digital on phone)
- Water and snacks (no dining on trains)
- Motion sickness remedies if prone
Recommended:
- Power bank (keep phone charged)
- Norwegian kroner or card (for cafe purchases)
- Rain jacket (mountain weather unpredictable)
- Small backpack for layers
- Binoculars for wildlife/views
For Photographers:
- Extra memory cards
- Lens cleaning cloth
- Wide-angle lens (essential for Kjosfossen)
- Telephoto lens (optional, for distant peaks)
Temperature Differences
| Season | Flam (2m) | Myrdal (867m) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | 15-20°C | 8-15°C | 7-12°C cooler |
| Spring | 8-15°C | 2-10°C | 5-8°C cooler |
| Autumn | 8-15°C | 2-10°C | 5-8°C cooler |
| Winter | 0-5°C | -5 to 0°C | 5-10°C cooler |
Dress in layers—you will experience significantly different temperatures between fjord level and mountain station.
Facilities
On the Train:
- Comfortable seating with large panoramic windows
- Announcements in Norwegian and English
- Climate controlled (heated in winter, cooled in summer)
- No food service onboard
- No toilets on most trains (use facilities at stations)
- Luggage space available
At Flam Station:
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Visitor Center | Tourist information, maps |
| Restaurants | Multiple options, various prices |
| Shops | Souvenirs, outdoor gear |
| Luggage Storage | Self-service lockers (NOK 30-60) |
| Toilets | Free, well-maintained |
| Fjord Departure | Walk to cruise terminal (5 min) |
At Myrdal Station:
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Cafe Rallaren | Seasonal (May-September) |
| Toilets | Basic, free |
| Waiting Area | Heated, indoor seating |
| Bergen Railway | Platform change for connections |
| Pre-Order Lunch | 24 hours advance notice |
| Bicycle Storage | For Rallarvegen cyclists |
Accessibility Information
The Flam Railway accommodates passengers with mobility needs:
| Accessibility Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Access | Some carriages—contact in advance |
| Assistance Boarding | Staff available with notice |
| Platform Access | Flam: good; Myrdal: limited |
| Kjosfossen Platform | Challenging for wheelchairs |
| Advance Booking | Essential for accessibility needs |
Contact Visit Flam at least 48 hours in advance to arrange assistance.
Bicycles on the Flam Railway
| Bicycle Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Reservation | Required—book with ticket |
| Space | Limited availability |
| Popular Route | Rallarvegen: Finse to Flam |
| Season | June-September (snow dependent) |
| Cost | Additional fee applies |
| Bike Types | All types accepted |
Best Time to Visit
Season-by-Season Guide
Summer (June - August): Peak Season
| Advantage | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Best weather | Most crowded |
| Longest days | Book 2-4 weeks ahead |
| Most frequent service | Higher prices |
| All facilities open | Cruise ships in port |
| Greenest scenery | Peak tourist season |
| Waterfalls from glacial melt | Busy photo platforms |
Spring (April - May): Waterfall Season
| Advantage | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Dramatic waterfalls | Variable weather |
| Fewer tourists | Pack for all conditions |
| Good value | Snow at high elevations |
| Awakening nature | Some services limited |
| Snowmelt peaks | Cooler temperatures |
Autumn (September - October): Color Season
| Advantage | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Beautiful fall colors | Shorter days |
| Fewer crowds | Cooler temperatures |
| Good photography light | Some services reducing |
| Lower prices | Weather more variable |
| Dramatic moods |
Winter (November - March): Magical Season
| Advantage | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Snow-covered landscapes | Reduced schedule |
| Fewest tourists | Cold temperatures |
| Most peaceful | Weather may affect service |
| Unique atmosphere | Limited daylight |
| Frozen waterfalls | Dress very warmly |
| Lowest prices |
Weather Considerations
| Weather Factor | Impact | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Rain | Common any season | Waterproof jacket |
| Mountain Cold | 10-15°C cooler than Flam | Warm layers |
| Wind | Exposed at Myrdal | Windproof layer |
| Snow | Possible year-round above 800m | Winter gear in shoulder seasons |
| Fog | Occasional, atmospheric | Flexible expectations |
Getting to Flam
From Bergen
| Method | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (Bergen Railway + Flam Railway) | 5-6 hours | 500-900 NOK | Most scenic option |
| Car | 3 hours | Fuel + tolls | Via E16 through Voss |
| Express Boat | 5.5 hours | 800-1,200 NOK | Seasonal, scenic |
From Oslo
| Method | Duration | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (to Myrdal + Flam Railway) | 6-7 hours | 600-1,100 NOK | Scenic mountain crossing |
| Car | 5-6 hours | Fuel + tolls | Via E16 |
| Flight to Bergen + Train | 4-5 hours | Variable | Fastest combination |
From Sognefjord Villages
- By Boat: Fjord cruises connect Flam to Gudvangen, Aurland, Balestrand
- By Car: Well-connected via scenic routes along the fjord
- By Bus: Local services from nearby villages
Where to Stay in Flam
Accommodation by Category
Luxury:
| Property | Style | Price/Night | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fretheim Hotel | Historic grand hotel | 2,000-4,000 NOK | Fjord views, spa, fine dining |
| **29 | 2 Aurland** | Boutique design | 2,500-4,500 NOK |
Mid-Range:
| Property | Style | Price/Night | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flam Marina & Apartments | Modern waterfront | 1,200-2,200 NOK | Self-catering, harbor views |
| Heimly Pensjonat | Traditional guesthouse | 900-1,500 NOK | Cozy, central location |
Budget:
| Property | Style | Price/Night | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flam Hostel | Hostel | 400-800 NOK | Dorms and private rooms |
| Flam Camping | Camping/cabins | 300-1,000 NOK | Fjord-side location |
Unique Stays:
| Property | Experience | Price/Night |
|---|---|---|
| Rorbu Cabins | Traditional fisherman’s cabins | 1,000-1,800 NOK |
| Vatnahalsen Hotel | Train-access only mountain hotel | 1,500-2,500 NOK |
| Glamping Options | Luxury camping | 1,200-2,000 NOK |
Why Stay Overnight
While the Flam Railway can be done as a day trip, overnight stays offer significant advantages:
| Overnight Advantage | Day Trip Limitation |
|---|---|
| Experience fjord at sunrise/sunset | Rushed schedule |
| Take railway twice (different light) | Single journey only |
| Add kayaking, hiking, cycling | No time for activities |
| Visit Stegastein viewpoint | Miss best views |
| Sample Aegir Brewery | No dining time |
| Quieter, more intimate experience | Tourist crowds |
| Explore Aurland village | See only Flam station |
Activities Beyond the Railway
In Flam Village
| Activity | Duration | Price | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flam Railway Museum | 1 hour | Free | Year-round |
| Aegir Bryggeri | 2-3 hours | Varies | Year-round |
| Village Walking | 1-2 hours | Free | Year-round |
| Fjord Swimming | 30+ minutes | Free | Summer |
Adventure Activities
| Activity | Duration | Price | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fjord Kayaking | 3-4 hours | 900-1,200 NOK | May-Sept |
| RIB Boat Safari | 1-2 hours | 800-1,500 NOK | May-Sept |
| E-Bike Fjord Tour | 3-5 hours | 700-1,200 NOK | May-Sept |
| Hiking Trails | 2-8 hours | Free | May-Sept |
| Fishing Trips | 4-6 hours | 600-1,000 NOK | Year-round |
Excursions from Flam
| Destination | How to Reach | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Stegastein Viewpoint | Bus tour or rental car | 2-3 hours |
| Aurland Village | Walk/bike (5 km) | 2-3 hours |
| Naeroyfjord Cruise | Ferry from Flam | 4-5 hours |
| Undredal Goat Village | Boat or car | 3-4 hours |
| Otternes Farm Village | Bus or car | 2-3 hours |
Final Advice
The Flam Railway delivers on its reputation as one of the world’s greatest train journeys. In just one hour, you experience engineering marvel, natural wonder, and Norwegian scenery at its finest—all reasons why approximately 800,000 passengers travel this route at peak years.
Key Tips for the Best Experience:
- Book Early: Summer tickets sell out; reserve 2-4 weeks ahead for July-August
- Choose Your Side: Right side (Flam to Myrdal) offers best Kjosfossen views
- Bring Layers: Temperature drops 10-15°C between Flam and Myrdal
- Stay Overnight: Transform a good experience into an unforgettable one
- Combine Wisely: Pair with Naeroyfjord cruise for the complete Fjord Norway experience
- Camera Ready: Every moment offers photo opportunities
- Arrive Early: Better viewing positions at Kjosfossen
- Consider Winter: Fewer crowds, magical snow scenery, lower prices
From the moment you leave Flam until you arrive at Myrdal high in the mountains, every minute offers something extraordinary. Whether you’re using it as transport between fjord and mountain or as an attraction in itself, the Flam Railway creates lasting memories and demonstrates why this 20-year construction project was worth every year of effort.
The 865-meter descent from mountain to fjord, through 20 tunnels hand-carved by workers over two decades, remains one of humanity’s great achievements in transportation engineering—and one of Earth’s most beautiful journeys.
Information sourced from Norway’s Best, Fjord Tours, and Visit Flam. 2025 Summer prices: Adults 510 NOK one-way, 730 NOK return. Children 6-17: 50% discount. Children 0-5: FREE. Eurail/Interrail holders: 30% discount. The railway carries approximately 800,000 passengers annually at peak years and features one of the world’s steepest standard gauge gradients at 5.5%. Route: 20 km from Flam (2m elevation) to Myrdal (867m elevation)—865 meters descent through 20 tunnels. Construction completed in 1940 after 20 years of work. Prices and schedules subject to change—verify current information before booking. Last updated November 2025.