Flåm Railway
Flåmsbana
One of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world. In under an hour, it climbs from sea level at Flåm to 866 m at Myrdal, passing 20 tunnels and waterfall-filled gorges.
The Flåm Railway runs about 20 km, connecting the village of Flåm at the head of the Sognefjord with Myrdal station on the Bergen Line. It climbs 863 m, and about 80% of the route has a gradient of 5.5%. Completed in 1940, it features 18 hand-dug tunnels and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train routes in the world. A one-way trip takes about an hour, passing steep valleys, mountain farms and several waterfalls. In summer, the train stops for about 5 minutes at Kjosfossen waterfall, where passengers can get off to watch a performance by the 'forest spirit' (Huldra) in red dress, dancing in the spray.
Seating tip: when traveling uphill from Flåm, sit on the right side (in the direction of travel); on the way down, sit on the left for better views. A one-way ticket costs about NOK 600–700, and a return ticket about NOK 900–1,000. Eurail and Interrail pass holders get discounts. Book online in advance during peak season.
In the village of Flåm, you'll find a free railway museum and the Ægir Viking-style brewery. It is also the departure point for cruises and kayak trips. Note: during peak season, every train is full, so arrive early. From Myrdal, you can connect to Norwegian State Railways trains to Oslo or Bergen.
Opening hours
Approx. 10 runs daily in summer, 4 in winter (check the official timetable)
Nearby sights
- Flåm Railway Museum
- Ægir Brewery & Pub
- Brekkefossen
- Otternes Farm
- Undredal
- Stegastein Viewpoint
- Kjosfossen
- Myrdal Station & Rallarvegen