Destinations
Destination guides to the villages in the Flåm and Aurlandsfjord area, including Flam, Aurland, Gudvangen, Undredal and more – all written by a local.
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A Local’s Guide to the Flam Zipline, Norway
Flåm is, without a doubt, one of western Norway’s most beautiful villages. Situated on the innermost banks of the Aurlandsfjord, Flam is amongst the country’s most visited tourist destinations – and I grew up watching all these tourists arrive. The Flåmsbana train that runs from Myrdal to Flam and back is the leading tourist attraction in Norway, however, there’s a new activity on the block; the Flam Zipline (or Flåm Zipline, depending on your keyboard)! The entire valley between Flam and Myrdal, also called the Flåm Valley, is 18 kilometres long and is blessed with steep mountains, cascading waterfalls, and streaming rivers. The ever-changing landscapes in the Flåm Valley offer…
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Myrdal to Flam, Norway [A Local’s How To Guide]
If you’re planning a trip to Norway, you’ve probably seen Myrdal to Flam mentioned in itineraries and transport guides – but what does it actually mean? Many travelers come across Myrdal while researching how to visit Flåm and wonder why it keeps appearing as an important stop. The short answer is that Myrdal is just a train station. Not a town, not an attraction, just a remote railway junction in the mountains. Its only purpose is to connect the Oslo-Bergen Railway with the world-famous Flåm Railway, which takes passengers down to Flåm at the edge of the Aurlandsfjord. So, if you’re wondering how to get from Myrdal to Flåm, this…
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Is Flam Worth Visiting? [Flåm, Norway]
When planning a trip to Norway, many travelers ask: Is Flam worth visiting? With so many incredible places to see, is it really worth making the trip to this small fjord village? As someone who grew up in Aurland, just minutes from Flåm, I can confidently say yes – Flåm is absolutely worth visiting! Whether you spend a single day or a full weekend here, Flåm offers some of the most spectacular landscapes and unique experiences in Norway. From bucket list attractions like the Flåm Railway and Stegastein Viewpoint to UNESCO-listed fjords and charming local villages, Flåm is a destination that belongs on everyone’s Norway itinerary. If you’re on the…
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Aurlandsfjord vs. Nærøyfjord: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Visit?
If you’re planning a trip to Flåm or the surrounding area, you’ve probably come across the names Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. These two breathtaking fjords are part of the same waterway, both offering stunning landscapes and unique experiences. But what’s the difference between them, and how do you decide how to explore them? As a local who grew up in Aurland, I want to clear up a common misconception: you don’t have to choose one over the other! When you take a fjord cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen, you’ll experience both – starting with the wide, open beauty of the Aurlandsfjord before gliding into the dramatic, narrow passage of the Nærøyfjord.…
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The 5 Best Flåm Shore Excursions for Cruise Passengers
Flåm is one of the most scenic cruise stops in Norway, offering breathtaking views, bucket list activities, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether you want to explore Viking history, take in panoramic mountain views, or cruise through the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, Flåm has shore excursions for every traveler. With limited time in port, choosing the right excursion is key to making the most of your visit. In this guide, I’ll cover the best Flam shore excursions, along with important tips for booking in advance to get the best experience at the best price. Straight to the point? I’ve created a folder of all the below-mentioned shore excursions here! Why Book Your Flåm…
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What is the Nearest Airport to Flåm?
Planning a trip to Flåm and wondering which airport to fly into? While Flåm itself doesn’t have its own airport, there are a couple of options to choose from depending on whether you’re flying internationally or domestically. Here’s everything you need to know about getting to Flåm by air, including which is the nearest airport to Flåm! The Closest International Airport: Bergen Airport (Flesland) For most travelers visiting Flåm, Bergen Airport (Flesland) is the best option. Located about 167 kilometers (104 miles) from Flåm, Bergen Airport is the closest international hub and serves flights from major cities across Europe and beyond. From Bergen, getting to Flåm is straightforward, with multiple…
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2 Days in Flåm, Norway: Itinerary by a Local
Flåm, located in the heart of Norway’s fjord country, is one of the most beautiful and relaxing places to visit in Scandinavia. And one of Norway’s top tourist destinations for a reason. Known for its breathtaking fjords, scenic railway, and charming villages, Flåm offers an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves nature, history, and good food. If you have two days to spend in Flåm, you’ll have time to not only visit the area’s iconic attractions but also slow down and enjoy unique activities that most travelers miss. As a local who grew up in nearby Aurland, I’ve designed this itinerary to show you the best of Flåm while giving…
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Visiting Flåm in Winter: A Local’s Guide
Whilst summer is definitely the peak season for the Aurlandsfjord area, an increasing number of people are opting to visit Flåm in winter instead – and I’m excited about it! Flåm in the winter is a very different experience from the summer, as the village empties of visitors and truly slows down in the colder months. If you are looking for a more tranquil experience, and a slower pace of travel, you should definitely consider it! With that being said, the winter months have both their pros and cons. The main downside of visiting the area this time of year is that there are less options for activities and timings,…
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Borgund Stave Church: History, Highlights & How to Visit from Flåm
The Borgund Stave Church is one of Norway’s best-preserved stave churches and a true masterpiece of medieval architecture. Built around 1180, this iconic church offers visitors a glimpse into Norway’s history, showcasing the unique blend of Viking traditions and Christian influence that shaped the country during the Middle Ages. Yes, I know it isn’t technically *in* Flåm (in fact, it’s in our neighboring municipality of Lærdal), but so many people want to visit the Borgund Stave Church from Flåm, and I get a lot of questions about it. So I figured I might as well write a blog post about it. For travelers staying in Flåm for more than 1-2…
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The Flåm Railway: A Local’s Complete Guide
The Flåm Railway, known locally as Flåmsbana, is one of Norway’s most breathtaking train journeys, offering travelers a unique glimpse into the country’s dramatic natural landscapes. Winding its way through 20 kilometers of sheer mountain scenery, the railway descends 867 meters from the mountainous station at Myrdal to the quaint fjord village of Flåm. As a local who grew up in the area, this railway was more than a tourist attraction; it was a vital connection to the world beyond our picturesque village. I remember my time working in the ticket office, where I witnessed firsthand the Flåm Railway’s growing popularity among tourists from around the globe, all eager to…
