Places to Stay in Flam, Norway [A Local’s Guide]

If you’re planning a trip to Flåm, choosing where to stay is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While the village is small, there is a range of places to stay in Flam – each area with its own atmosphere, advantages, and drawbacks.

Some visitors prefer to be right in the center by the fjord, while others may want a quieter experience away from the busiest areas.

As a local from Aurland and a travel guide who stays in Flåm every week during summer, I know the area like the back of my hand. If I were visiting Flåm as a tourist, I would personally recommend staying in the village center by the fjord – not only for the incredible views but also for the convenience of having restaurants, activities, and transport within walking distance.

The port area is often called the “commercial center” of Flåm, as it’s where you’ll find hotels, shops, and excursions like the Flåm Railway and fjord cruises.

That said, if you’re staying for more than one night, I often recommend Aurland instead of Flåm. It’s just a 10-minute drive away, offers a quieter and more local atmosphere, and still provides easy access to Flåm’s attractions.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Flåm, including options right by the fjord, in quieter parts of the valley, and even in nearby villages like Aurland, Gudvangen, and Undredal. Whether you want to be in the middle of the action or tucked away in a peaceful spot, this guide will help you find the perfect place to stay in Flåm!

📍 If you’re looking for a list of specific hotels, check out my other guide: Hotels in Flåm, Norway

Quick Note about the Best Places to Stay in Flåm, Norway

One of the biggest mistakes I see travelers make when booking accommodation in Flåm is assuming the port area is the entire village – and then feeling disappointed that it seems too touristy.

The reality is that Flåm’s historic village is actually spread further up the valley along the Flåm River, with traditional homes, farms, and the old church.

So, know when you book that what seems like the village center (and what myself and so many others refer to as the center) is more like a “commercial” village center. The authentic village of Flåm is not in the same place as the Flåm Railway and all the activities in the area.

Village Center / By the Fjord (Best for Convenience & Views)

If you want to wake up to fjord views and be within walking distance of everything, staying in Flåm’s village center is the best option. This is where you’ll find the busiest and most convenient area of Flåm, with hotels, restaurants, and activities right at your doorstep.

This part of Flåm is often called the “commercial center” because it’s home to the Flåm Railway Station, fjord cruise departures, the visitor center, and several restaurants and shops.

While it’s not the historic village of Flåm (that’s located further up the valley), it’s where most travelers stay because it offers the best combination of comfort and accessibility.

Local tip: check the cruise schedule in advance – and you’ll avoid surprises!

Who Should Stay Here?

• Travelers who want to be close to all attractions and transport – all the best things to do in Flåm are within easy reach
• Those visiting Flåm without a car
• Visitors who want a fjord-view hotel
• Anyone looking for the most convenient stay

Pros & Cons of Staying in the Village Center

Pros:

• Everything is within walking distance (train, ferry, activities, restaurants).
• Stunning fjord views from some hotels.
• Best for first-time visitors who want an easy and accessible stay.

Cons:

• Can feel busy on cruise ship days.
• The area is touristy and lacks a local village feel.

Hotels in the Village Center

• Flåmsbrygga Hotel – Charming, Viking-style hotel, home to Ægir BrewPub.
• Fretheim Hotel – Historic and elegant, where I personally stay each week in summer while guiding tours.
• Flåm Marina – A quieter option right on the water, with beautiful fjord views from their dockside restaurant.

📍 For a full hotel list, check out: Hotels in Flåm, Norway

If you want the easiest and most scenic stay in Flåm, the village center by the fjord is the perfect choice. But if you’re looking for a quieter or more budget-friendly option, let’s explore other areas next!

Brekke (Best for Budget Travelers)

If you’re looking for a more affordable place to stay in Flåm, consider staying in Brekke – a small area just outside the main village center on the other side of the river.

Located about a 10–15 minute walk from the fjord, Brekke offers a mix of budget-friendly accommodations, hostels, and cabins, making it a great option for travelers who want to experience Flåm without paying premium hotel prices.

While Brekke doesn’t have fjord views, it’s surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery and green open spaces. The walk to the center is easy, though parts of the road don’t have sidewalks, so it’s best for those comfortable walking along rural roads.

The hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall is located in the Brekke area – one of the most popular hikes in the area!

Who Should Stay Here?

• Budget travelers looking for cheaper accommodation options
• Backpackers or solo travelers wanting a hostel stay
• Visitors who don’t mind a short walk to the village center

Pros & Cons of Staying in Brekke

Pros:

• More affordable than staying by the fjord.
• A peaceful setting surrounded by nature.
• Great for meeting other travelers, as it’s home to the main hostel in Flåm.

Cons:

• No fjord views.
• Slightly less convenient – requires a 10–15 min walk to the main attractions.
• Limited dining options nearby (you’ll need to go into the center for restaurants).

Accommodation Options in Brekke

• Brekke Gard Hostel – Budget-friendly dorms and private rooms, popular with backpackers.
• Flåm Camping & Cabins – Great for those who prefer a self-catering, nature-based stay. This is actually just across the river from the village center – so kind of in “between” Brekke and the port.

If you’re looking for a affordable places to stay in Flam and don’t mind being a little outside the main center, Brekke is the best choice. But if you want a quieter and more local atmosphere, the next section might be for you!

Old Village Center (Best for a Quiet & Authentic Experience)

For those looking for a more peaceful and local stay in Flåm, the Old Village Center is a hidden gem. Unlike the bustling port area, this part of Flåm is where the historic village developed, stretching further up the valley along the Flåm River.

Staying here offers a quieter, more authentic atmosphere, surrounded by nature, traditional homes, and farmland.

As mentioned above, one of the biggest misconceptions about Flåm is that the area around the railway station and cruise port is the whole village – but it’s not. The real village extends up the valley, with the old Flåm Church, local farms, and residential areas giving you a much more authentic experience of life here.

If you take a bike tour of the area (like this one), you’ll get to cycle past this quieter part of Flåm and see the historic heart of the village.

Who Should Stay Here?

• Travelers who want a quiet stay away from the busy port
• Those looking for a local experience in a more traditional setting
• Visitors with a car or bike (some places may require a short drive or cycle to the center)

Pros & Cons of Staying in the Old Village Center

Pros:

• Much quieter than the village center, with fewer tourists.
• More local atmosphere, with traditional homes and farmland.
• Beautiful nature and easy access to walking and biking trails.

Cons:

• Limited accommodation options—mostly apartments and cabins rented by locals.
• Not as convenient – some places may require a short drive or bike ride to the main attractions.

Accommodation Options in the Old Village Center

• Gjørven Hytter – Traditional self-service cabins, just a stone’s throw from the Old Flåm Church. Perfect for travelers looking for a cozy, rustic stay.
• Steinshølen Holiday Home – A spacious rental home between the old village center and the port, making it an ideal choice for families.

If you want a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, but still close enough to enjoy everything Flåm has to offer, staying in the Old Village Center is a fantastic choice!

Myrdal / Vatnahalsen (Best for Adventure & Scenic Train Lovers)

If you’re looking for a remote, adventure-filled stay surrounded by mountains, Myrdal and Vatnahalsen offer a completely different experience from staying in Flåm. These two locations sit high above the fjords, accessible only by train, hiking, or biking – making them a unique option for those who love the outdoors.

Myrdal itself is just a railway junction where travelers transfer between the Oslo-Bergen Railway and the Flåm Railway, so there’s no reason to stay there. But just a short train ride or hike away, Vatnahalsen offers a peaceful mountain retreat with stunning views, fresh air, and direct access to Rallarvegen, a famous cycling and hiking route. Adventurers will enjoy staying close to the Flåm Zipline, the longest zipline in Scandinavia, or simply taking in the beauty of the surrounding mountain landscape.

Getting here is part of the adventure! Learn more about the journey: How to Travel from Myrdal to Flåm.

Who Should Stay Here?

• Travelers looking for a remote, nature-filled getaway
• Hikers, bikers, and train enthusiasts wanting an off-the-beaten-path stay
• Visitors who want to experience Norwegian mountain life

Pros & Cons of Staying in Myrdal/Vatnahalsen

Pros:

• Secluded and peaceful, perfect for a mountain retreat.
• Great access to hiking and biking trails (including Rallarvegen).
• A unique opportunity to stay in the mountains, away from the tourist crowds.

Cons:

• Only accessible by train, hiking, or biking – you can’t drive here.
• Limited accommodation options (just one hotel and one cabin rental).
• Not ideal if you want quick access to Flåm’s main attractions.

Accommodation Options in Myrdal/Vatnahalsen

• Vatnahalsen Hotel – A cozy, historic mountain hotel with a long tradition of welcoming travelers. This is the only hotel in the area and offers a true “home away from home” atmosphere.
  📍 Read my full review: Vatnahalsen Hotel Review
• Reinunga Eco Cabin – A beautiful Norwegian-style cabin near Reinungavatnet Lake. A great choice for those wanting a true off-grid cabin experience.

If you’re looking for a remote, scenic, and adventurous place to stay, Myrdal/Vatnahalsen is an incredible choice – just know that getting here is part of the adventure!

Alternative Places to Stay Near Flåm

While staying in Flåm is convenient, it’s not the only option. If you’re spending more than one night or prefer a quieter, more local atmosphere, there are several beautiful villages nearby that offer stunning fjord views, peaceful surroundings, and a more authentic experience.

Aurland (Best for a Peaceful, Fjord-Side Stay)

Just 10 minutes from Flåm, Aurland is a fantastic alternative for those who want to stay close to Flåm but avoid the busy cruise port. It’s also where I grew up, so I’ll admit I am a little biased.

But, I know you’ll love it because the village sits right on the Aurlandsfjord, offering breathtaking views and a more laid-back, local atmosphere.

Aurland has a handful of small hotels, guesthouses, and rental cabins, as well as a few cozy cafés and bakeries. If you have a car, it’s the perfect base – allowing you to enjoy Flåm’s attractions while retreating to a quiet fjordside stay in the evenings.

Who Should Stay Here?

• Travelers looking for a quieter alternative to Flåm
• Visitors with a car who don’t mind a short drive to Flåm
• Those wanting beautiful fjord views without the crowds

📍 Aurland is also featured in my 2 Days in Flåm Itinerary

Gudvangen (Best for Viking History & Dramatic Fjord Views)

Located 30 minutes from Flåm, Gudvangen sits at the end of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, one of Norway’s most stunning fjords. The village is small, but it’s home to the Viking Village, where you can step back in time and experience Viking history and culture.

Staying in Gudvangen gives you incredible fjord views and access to fjord cruises between Flåm and Gudvangen, making it a great base for exploring the area.

Who Should Stay Here?

• Visitors interested in Viking history
• Travelers looking for dramatic fjord landscapes
• Those wanting to be near the Nærøyfjord & fjord cruise departures

Undredal (Best for an Off-the-Beaten-Path Fjord Village)

If you want a tiny, authentic fjord village experience, Undredal is a hidden gem. Located 20 minutes from Flåm, this picturesque village is known for its Norwegian goat cheese production and its tiny stave church, the smallest in Scandinavia.

With fewer than 100 residents, Undredal offers a slow-paced, peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for those wanting to experience Norwegian fjord life away from the crowds.

Who Should Stay Here?

• Travelers looking for a small, quiet village stay
• Food lovers wanting to taste local goat cheese
• Visitors with a car, as public transport to Undredal is limited

Final Thoughts: Where Should You Stay in Flåm?

Flåm has several great areas to stay, depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for:

• Village Center / By the Fjord – Best for convenience & fjord views.
• Brekke – Best for budget travelers.
• Old Village Center – Best for a quiet, local feel.
• Myrdal/Vatnahalsen – Best for adventure & train lovers.

And if Flåm is fully booked – or you’d simply prefer a quieter stay – Aurland, Gudvangen, and Undredal are fantastic alternatives that still allow easy access to Flåm’s attractions.

For a full list of specific hotels, check out: Hotels in Flåm, Norway

No matter where you choose to stay, you’re guaranteed breathtaking fjord views and unforgettable experiences in one of Norway’s most beautiful regions!