Flam is a small village in the Aurland municipality of western Norway, set at the head of the Aurlandsfjord, an arm of the long Sognefjord. It is a quiet place of water, mountains and a few houses, and it is best understood as a stopping point on a journey rather than a town to tour at length.
Why visitors come
Flam is known above all for its scenic railway connection. The line climbs steeply from the valley through the mountains, and the journey itself is the reason many people make the trip. Seeing the landscape from the train, with the fjord and valley below, gives a clear sense of the terrain that surrounds the village.
What a visit is like
The village suits a relaxed visit. Those who come for a few hours can take in the waterfront, look across the fjord, and enjoy the views that open up in every direction. Those staying longer will find the surrounding fjord country the main attraction, with the village serving as a base from which to see it.
- Arrive by the scenic railway, or by boat along the fjord
- Walk along the waterfront and take in the view up the fjord
- Allow time to simply sit and watch the water and mountains
Because Flam is small, plan ahead for transport and accommodation, and check current timetables before setting out, since services on the railway and fjord routes can vary by season.
