Welcome to Flåm, a hidden gem among the breathtaking landscapes of Norwegian fjords. The village has a population of 350 inhabitants and is located in western Norway, at the inner end of the Aurlandsfjord, a branch of the larger, Sognefjord.
Flåm is a small village and its charm lies in towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear fjords that surround it. The enormous Sognefjord, which stretches an outstanding 205 km, is Norway’s largest and deepest fjord.
Flåm’s dock and train station are surrounded by an array of buildings that may look small, but don’t let their size deceive you! This village serves as the gateway to some of the most breathtaking sights Norway has to offer. Make sure to come on the outer decks and enjoy the breathtaking sail into this magnificent port of call!
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into practical information on the Flåm cruise terminal and the 8 best things to do in Flåm port.
Visit also our cruise port guides to Bergen, Oslo, Tromso, Alesund, Geirangerfjord, Haugesund, Olden, Kristiansand
Flam Cruise Port
Flam cruise ship terminal is located 200 m away from the center of the village. It has one pier that can accommodate one or two cruise ships at a time, depending on the ship’s size. Cruise ships may tender if there are more ships in port.
You’ll find the train station and Flåm Visitor Center conveniently located just 300 m away from the cruise port. Here, visitors can get all the information they may need, from maps and brochures to tours, transportation, and shopping.
Screens displayed all over the center show the timetables of buses and trains, and friendly staff is readily available to answer all your questions. ATM and a shop are available within the center.
The best way to explore what Flam and its surroundings have to offer is to book a guided tour through your cruise ship, or at the Flam Visitor Center. Local buses and taxis are available, but very limited, so an organized journey is the best option in the port of Flam.
Th currency in Norway is the Norwegian kroner (NOK), but you may not need to change money as the majority of places take cards.
8 Best Things To Do In Flam Cruise Port
Depending on your personal preferences, you can go for more adventurous activities like hiking, biking, and rib boat trips, or you can opt for a train or panoramic bus ride. One of the highlights here is the world-renowned Flåmsbana, one of the most scenic train journeys in the world.
1. Flåmsbana
The Flåm Railway, or Flåmsbana in Norwegian, is a legendary railway journey that winds through some of Norway’s most spectacular landscapes.
The Flam train station is adjacent to the Visitor Center and the trains depart approximately once per hour, although this may vary by the season. You can check the updated train timetables at https://www.norwaysbest.com/
In just one hour, the 20-km-long Flåm Railway transports you from sea level at Flåm’s Aurlandsfjord to Myrdal mountain station, standing 867 meters above sea level. Myrdal is a key stop on the Bergen Line, connecting with trains to Bergen and Oslo.
The Flåmsbana passes through rocky mountainsides, providing breathtaking views of waterfalls, valleys, and cliffs. Each twist and turn on the track reveals new views that will leave you fascinated by nature’s beauty.
Don’t forget to have your camera ready to capture the breathtaking scenery outside your window! The train usually takes a 5-minute photo break at the Kjosfossen waterfall.
2. Flåm Village (Within Walking Distance from the Ship)
If you decide to stay in Flam village, there are several things you can do and see.
2.1. Flam Railway Museum
Located only a 5-minute walk from the Flam cruise terminal, you can visit the renowned Flam Railway Museum, situated just next to the train station.
The museum’s exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays portray the history of Flåmsbana. You can learn about the engineering accomplishments and obstacles encountered during railway construction, as well as the social and economic consequences for the region.
One of the highlights of the Flåm Railway Museum is its collection of vintage railway cars and locomotives, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past and evolution of rail travel in Norway. In addition to its static displays, the museum also offers informative presentations and guided tours.
2.2. Ægir Brewery
Only 80 m from the cruise terminal, Ægir Brewery is a renowned craft brewery known for its exceptional beers and stunning wooden building inspired by Norse mythology.
Named after the giant brewer in Norse mythology, Ægir, the brewery combines traditional brewing techniques with innovative flavors. The renowned brewery offers guided tours where visitors get the opportunity to learn about craft beer production and sample Norse mythology-inspired brews at the on-site Ægir BrewPub.
The village of Flam is also known for its charming Flam Marina and a variety of craft shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs, local handicrafts, and traditional Norwegian products. Not to mention the beautiful samples of traditional Norwegian architecture that you can admire along the way.
When it comes to restaurants and places to eat, you can check out the Flamsbrygga Hotel Restaurant, the Flam Bakery, and the Flåmstova Restaurant, housed inside the Fretheim Hotel. All these places are located within only a few minutes walk from the pier.
In Flam, you can also embark on fjord sightseeing cruises, or go hiking, cycling, and join other outdoor activities.
3. Flåm Church
This historic wooden church, also known as Flåm Kirke in Norwegian, dates back to the 17th century and is a beautiful example of traditional Norwegian architecture.
Built in the traditional Norwegian stave church style, it has a wooden construction with intricate carvings and a steeply pitched roof. Inside the church, you can admire the simple yet elegant interior with wooden pews, a beautifully crafted altar, and traditional decorations.
Flam Church is situated in a picturesque location, surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the Aurlandsfjord, around 4 km (a 10-minute drive) from the port. You can visit it on your own or as part of a guided tour.
4. Borgund Stave Church
Located in Borgund, a 50-minute drive northeast of Flam cruise port, Borgund Stave Church is a masterpiece of medieval Norwegian architecture and one of the best-preserved stave churches in the country.
Dating back to the 12th century, the church is renowned for its striking design, characterized by its intricate wooden carvings, steeply pitched roofs, and dragon heads adorning the gables.
Visitors can admire the impressive woodwork, including detailed carvings depicting scenes from Norse mythology and Christian symbolism. The church is often part of the guided tours, which is the best way to visit it.
Explore Borgund Stave Church tours
5. Cruise the Nærøyfjord
A fjord trip to the Naerøyfjord offers an unforgettable experience that showcases some of Norway’s most breathtaking natural beauty.
Renowned for its stunning landscapes, narrow, steep-sided fjords, cascading waterfalls, and towering mountains, Naerøyfjord is best explored on a boat cruise from Flam.
As your boat travels through the crystal-clear waters of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will be fascinated by beautiful sceneries, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque villages along the shoreline.
Be on the lookout for marine wildlife like seals, porpoises, and occasionally, whales such as minke whales and orcas. Seabirds like gulls, terns, and cormorants can also be spotted along the fjord’s coastline.
Kayaking and hiking are two other popular activities in the Nærøyfjord.
To reach the Naerøyfjord from Flam port, you can book a guided cruise excursion or hire a local boat trip to explore alone. Simply inquire at the Flam Visitor Center or book beforehand to ensure the availability.
Explore Naerøyfjord cruises from Flam
6. Stegastein Viewpoint
Stegastein Viewpoint is a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts! Located high above the Aurlandsfjord, 17 km (a 25-minute drive) northeast of Flam, this iconic viewing platform offers amazing panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.
This cantilevered platform, designed by Todd Saunders and Tommie Wilhelmsen, extends 30 m out from the mountainside, providing visitors with unobstructed views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.
Hike to the Stegastein Viewpoint is a popular activity, although it requires a moderate level of fitness and proper preparation due to the terrain and elevation gain. The hiking trail starts from Aurland and the hike itself takes around 2 to 3 hours one way, depending on your pace and hiking experience.
To get to the Stegastein Viewpoint from the port of Flam, you can either rent a car and drive yourself, join a guided tour, or take a minibus from the Visitor Center. If you are driving, beware because there is a steep and winding drive up to the viewpoint. Parking is available on-site.
Explore Stegastein Viewpoint tours and activities
7. Fjord Safari
A fjord safari in Flåm is an exciting adventure ideal for thrill-seekers and those looking to discover hidden gems in the nearby waterways.
Led by experienced guides, these safaris typically involve exploring the Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord aboard high-speed RIB (rigid inflatable boats).
During your fjord safari, you’ll be able to zip through narrow fjords in a speedboat or RIB (rigid inflatable boat) and discover isolated and hidden areas that larger vessels cannot reach.
Along the way, you’ll be able to admire the towering cliffs, secluded beaches, waterfalls, and lush greenery that line the fjords. Plus, get ready for up-close wildlife sightings of seals, porpoises, and seabirds!
Check out fjord cruises in Flam
8. Njardarheimr Museum
Njardarheimr, located in Gudvangen around a 20-minute drive from Flam port, is an immersive cultural experience that offers a journey through Viking history. This one-of-a-kind attraction takes visitors on a journey through Norse mythology, traditions, and everyday life.
Upon arrival at this immersive Viking village, you’ll be transported to a time when Vikings roamed the fjords and ruled the seas. The experience begins with interactive workshops where guests can try their hand at traditional Viking crafts such as blacksmithing, woodworking, or weaving.
Visitors get the chance to participate in hands-on activities like axe throwing and archery, and enjoy storytelling sessions and feasting on Viking-inspired cuisine. You can even create authentic Viking-inspired souvenirs to take home!
The most convenient way to reach Njardarheimr from Flam is by car or organized tour.
Explore Njardarheimr tours and activities
Visit also our cruise port guides to Reykjavik, Isafjordur, Akureyri, Amsterdam, Zeebrugge, Copenhagen, Invergordon (Inverness), Glasgow (Greenock), Tallinn, Stockholm
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Western Europe, Baltic & Scandinavia, USA & Canada, Australia & New Zealand
This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my privacy policy here.
