Flåm

Port information by Cruise with Amber

Welcome to One day in Flam – a  destination guide for cruise passengers. 

Nestled right at the end of one of the branches of the 205 km Sognefjord – Norway’s longest and deepest fjord – you will find Flam. Flam is a small port (population: circa 350) surrounded by steep mountains and it is often a highlight for many cruise passengers on a seven-night Norwegian fjords cruise. In my opinion, Flam epitomises the essence of Norway: friendly people, spectacular views, and a relaxed atmosphere.

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Flam

Flam, located deep within the Aurlandsfjord, is one of Norway’s most scenic cruise destinations. Surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and narrow fjords, Flam offers breathtaking natural beauty and easy access to one of the world’s most famous railway journeys. Cruise passengers can explore the small village, enjoy fjord cruises, or embark on excursions to nearby valleys and viewpoints within a few hours ashore.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships dock directly at Flam’s pier, located in the heart of the village. It is a docking port, and passengers can step off the ship into the small but busy center. Flam welcomes a large number of cruise ships each summer, making it one of Norway’s most popular fjord stops. Facilities include tourist information, shops, cafes, and transport connections.

Transportation Options

• Walking - The village center and attractions are within easy walking distance from the pier.
• Flam Railway - A world-famous train journey to Myrdal (20 km/12 miles, about 1 hour each way).
• Bus/Coach - Excursions to nearby towns and scenic areas such as Gudvangen and Stegastein Viewpoint.

Nearby towns include Aurland (10 km/6 miles, 15 minutes by bus) and Gudvangen (20 km/12 miles, 25 minutes by bus), both offering dramatic fjord scenery.

Main Attractions in Flam

• Flam Railway - A spectacular train ride through mountains, tunnels, and past waterfalls.
• Stegastein Viewpoint - A panoramic platform 650 meters (2,130 feet) above the fjord.
• Aurlandsfjord - A branch of the Sognefjord, perfect for boat excursions.
• Flam Church - A small wooden church dating back to the 17th century.
• Bakka Village - A traditional fjordside settlement near Nærøyfjord.

Nearby touristic destinations

• Nærøyfjord - A UNESCO World Heritage fjord known for its narrow, dramatic landscapes.
• Gudvangen - A nearby village offering Viking-themed experiences and fjord views.
• Aurland - Known for its beautiful surroundings and access to the Stegastein Viewpoint.

Interesting Facts

• Flam receives more than 450,000 visitors each year, making it one of Norway’s busiest fjord villages.
• The Flam Railway is one of the steepest standard-gauge railway lines in the world.
• Nærøyfjord near Flam is only 250 meters (820 feet) wide at its narrowest point.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Flam is located at the innermost end of Aurlandsfjord, part of the greater Sognefjord. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush valleys, the area is shaped by glaciers and rivers. The climate is relatively mild in summer with long daylight hours, while winters are cold and snowy, enhancing the dramatic scenery.

Local Foods

• Lamb dishes - Locally raised sheep provide hearty traditional meals.
• Goat Cheese - Especially brunost (brown cheese) from nearby Undredal.
• Salmon - Fresh Norwegian salmon served smoked or grilled.
• Lefse - A soft flatbread made with potatoes and flour.
• Cloudberries - Rare berries often served with cream or desserts.

Destination secrets

• Take a hike to Brekkefossen waterfall, a short but steep trail with rewarding views.
• Visit Undredal, a nearby tiny village famous for its goat cheese and small stave church.
• Try kayaking on the fjord for a peaceful perspective of the landscape.

Local Customs and Culture

Flam and the surrounding region reflect Norway’s strong traditions of living close to nature. Local culture emphasizes outdoor activities, farming, and fishing. Visitors are welcomed warmly but are encouraged to respect the natural environment and private farmland. Seasonal festivals often celebrate food, local music, and Viking heritage.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Children up to 6 years old - Ride the Flam Railway and enjoy short fjordside walks.
• Children between 7 and 12 - Visit the Viking Experience in Gudvangen or join a family-friendly fjord cruise.
• Teenagers aged 13 to 18 - Try kayaking, cycling, or hiking to Stegastein Viewpoint.

Notice: Port information is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this destination. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information such as visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app. Please note that distances, travel times and pricing may have some inaccuracies or may be outdated. Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. *