11 Fun Things to Do in Flåm (Aurlandsfjord), Norway

If you’re on the hunt for epic scenery, quirky experiences, and a good excuse to wear layers in July, I’ve got news for you: Flåm is your kind of place! This pretty little village at the end of Aurlandsfjord punches well above its weight when it comes to attractions. From one of the world's most beautiful train journeys to floating saunas and a trouser-cacking zipline, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Flåm, Norway.

Flåm might be small, but I can honestly say that my recent trip to Norway wouldn’t have been complete without having visited it. Every corner of the area has something different to offer, and every activity promises awe, adrenaline, local snacks—or all three, in some cases. Learn more about Norway.

Whether I was plunging into icy fjord waters or listening to a typecast Viking explain how to throw an axe (don’t worry, it’s all safe… probably), I had many stories to take home. And courtesy of these stories, I bring you this guide: 11 of the best ways to make the most of your trip to Flåm and the Aurlandsfjord area.

Aurlandsgjord is very deep. Hold your phone tight on all of the viewpoints
 

Fun fact: Aurlandsfjord is so deep that it’s nearly three times(!) the height of the Eiffel Tower. Meaning? If you drop your phone into it, it’s officially gone forever, so grip tight while snapping the scenery.

Another fun fact: Nærøyfjord, the fjord right next to Aurlandsfjord, is one of just two fjords in Norway to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. I think it’s unfair that Nærøyfjord gets this gold star and Aurlandsfjord doesn’t, especially as they basically look the same. But I guess the United Nations has more pressing injustices to deal with.

In my opinion, these are the best things to do in Flåm, Norway:

1. Rent a motorboat to explore Aurlandsfjord
2. Ride the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s most beautiful train rides
3. Drive up to the Stegastein Viewpoint for sunset
4. Check out “Viking Valley” in gorgeous Gudvangen
5. Brave the Flåm Zipline
6. Hike from Gudvangen to Rimstigen
7. Rent a kayak in Undredal
8. Hike from Flåm to Brekkefossen
9. Try out the FjordSauna
10. Drive through the Lærdal Tunnel
11. Go on a speedboat fjord safari

Me in the Viking Valley

 

 

Planning a longer vacation to Norway? Be sure to check out my own 14-day Norwegian itinerary:

 

Things to know when preparing your Flåm itinerary

So, you’re going to see one two of the most beautiful fjords in Norway. Good choice! Flåm is a good place to base yourself when exploring Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord, and here are some quick tips you’ll find useful when planning your vacation.

Interested in what the other Norwegian fjords have to offer? Use my article on the best fjords in Norway to compare Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord with elsewhere.

This one is from Nærøyfjord. Renting a motorboat was an excellent idea!

The best time to visit Flåm

The best time to visit Flåm is in the summer, between May and August. This is when the weather is the most pleasant, the days are the longest, and you can take maximum advantage of the area’s outdoor activities such as fjord cruising, kayaking, and hiking.

How long to spend in Flåm

In order to check off everything on my 11-point list below, I recommend spending at least 4 days in Flåm.

Most people only spend a day or two in Flåm as they tend to come as part of a cruise around several of the Norwegian fjords, but I think this is a mistake. There are tons of good things to do in Flåm and the Aurlandsfjord area and it’d be impossible to fit everything into just 24 or 48 hours.

Spend at least 4 days in Flåm to get the most out of your adventure

My top tips on visiting Flåm

• Book everything in advance during summer. Flåm gets packed, as does the Aurlandsfjord area in general. The first time I went to Flåm, I thought I could get a train ticket on the day. Nope.
   
• The rule of thumb to avoid the worst of the crowds is: head out either very early or very late in the day. I often forget about this, set off to a popular spot around lunchtime, and end up getting frustrated by all the people.
   
• Pack warm and windproof layers, even in summer. The fjord winds are no joke. Take it from me, someone who’s a master at underdressing and ends up borrowing gloves and a hat from his better-prepared girlfriend.
   
• Stay in Aurland or Flåm. Both villages offer stunning fjordside accommodation, though there are slightly more options in Flåm. (But personally, I’d only stay in Aurland again because it’s so much more peaceful.)
   
• Choose active exploration wherever you can. This means hiking, renting a boat, or going on a bike ride for a self-led, more immersive experience.
   
• Bring snacks wherever you go. Food options can be limited and pricey, so stock up on essentials for your hikes and boat trips.

Even eating in Flåm comes with gorgeous scenery

 

Flåm hotel and restaurant tips

• My hotel recommendation: Vangsgaarden Gjestgiveri, Aurland. This place is one of the best places I’ve ever stayed at in Norway. This row of modern, comfy rooms in little individual huts, once belonged to fishermen. It’s got it all: unique charm, a fjord view, and the perfect breakfast, all situated just 10 km (6.2 mi) from Flåm.
   
• My restaurant recommendation: Flåm Marina & Apartments, Flåm. It doesn’t look like anything special on the inside, but it’s inviting enough. It has more of a café feel to it, but the portions are as generous as you’d expect from a restaurant. My girlfriend and I had a burger and a cod fillet and they were really tasty. But what did I love the most? The standout service!

 

Map of Flåm, Norway: Top things to do around Aurlandsfjord

Map of the Flåm area, pinpointing all the best things to do

 

1. Rent a motorboat to explore Aurlandsfjord

Hiring a motorboat is definitely the best option!
 

My top recommendation: Rent a motorboat! Hiring your own private boat costs almost the same as a fjord cruise, but this way, you’re the captain. It’s basically an intimate, two-person fjord cruise experience.

We rented from Flåm Boat Rental, right next to the Marina restaurant, and the process was pretty straightforward. It cost NOK 1,890 (USD 171) for two hours, and what’s good to know is that you don’t even need a driver’s license to sit at the helm.

The boat was bumping up and down at 40 km/h (25 mi/h), giving us a good thrill. According to my smartwatch, we managed to explore 62 km, reaching Nærøyfjord, Aurlandsfjord’s equally beautiful cousin branch. Tip: The inner sections of both fjords are by far the prettiest areas to explore. As they get wider, the cliffs start leveling out.

Let me assure you: having your own boat is a game-changer—the fjord views somehow become even more special. Although the standard rental time is two hours, I’d recommend going for three because you do get lost in being at one with the water and the cliffs.

More tips: Just in case you didn’t hear me the first time, dress warm! Fjords are chilly, and at 40 km/h, that wind bites. It’s actually less windy (which means fewer waves) in the morning than the afternoon, so try to head out early. Lastly, ladies, a seat cushion wouldn’t hurt—take it from my girlfriend.

 

2. Take the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s most beautiful train rides

A train journey full of beautiful sceneries of Flåm
 

Self-proclaimed as “one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys”, the Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) is one of Norway’s top attractions. This historic 20-kilometer (12.4-mile) train line drops from the not-even-big-enough-to-be-a-village of Myrdal, at 860 m (2,822 ft), down to Flåm, at sea level. But unsurprisingly, most people board in Flåm and head upward.

Fun fact: Running on a gradient of 5.5%, the Flåm Railway is one of the world’s steepest standard gauge railway lines. But don’t stress, it’s perfectly safe!

The idea is that you get to see one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway, as well as the jaw-dropping scenery that surrounds it, while exerting very little physical effort. Think of it like a city tour bus... except without an open top deck, and with the chance of trying sveler (Norwegian pancakes) on board.

I must say, I’ve never enjoyed a train ride as much as this one
 

Pro tip: There are several tourist companies that offer Flåm Railway tickets, but go directly with the operator, vy.no, for the cheapest deals. 

However, being the outdoor, active couple we are, we did in fact skip out on the pancakes and put in some physical effort, opting to hike half the way to Myrdal. It’s a relatively quiet trail and we caught some impressive waterfalls and moss-covered forests along the way, so I’d recommend it.

Bonus tip: If you want to learn more about this impressive train track, have a look around the Flåm Railway Museum right by Flåm Train Station. It’s free to enter and they offer a guided tour in 9 different languages.

 

3. Drive up to the Stegastein Viewpoint for sunset

My girlfriend having a modeling moment on the Stegastein viewpoint
 

Perched a vertigo-inducing 650 m (2,133 ft) above Aurlandsfjord, the Stegastein Viewpoint is worth the steep and winding drive, especially in the morning or evening when there are fewer crowds. It’s a long and wide viewing platform built to offer stellar views of Aurlandsfjord and the mouth of Nærøyfjord, and what a good idea it was!

Expect an 8-kilometer (6.4-mile) one-way road from Aurland that demands patience. If you don’t want to drive, you can get the tourist bus instead, which goes from Flåm Visitor Center and stops in Aurland.

Tip: If you’re visiting in the summer, staying in Aurland lets you easily visit at 11 pm for amazing sunset views. Meanwhile, be aware that if you choose to drive up during the day, you’re likely to encounter traffic jams. Also, be aware that the parking lot is small. Even though we didn’t go at peak time, we had trouble finding a spot.

 

4. Check out “Viking Valley” in gorgeous Gudvangen

It wouldn't be a trip to Norway without a visit to a Viking Village...
 

Gudvangen is a village at the end of neighboring Nærøyfjord, and being reminiscent of Yosemite Valley, it might just be the most picturesque spot in Norway. You heard it here first!

It also happens to be home to the famed “Viking Valley of Njardarheimr”, which feels like a genuine Norse retreat, even though it’s incredibly staged. The staff stay in character as “Viking villagers”.

For just NOK 235 (USD 21), you can explore interactive exhibits such as axe-throwing and bow-and-arrow-shooting, eat Viking food, and come away with a rich knowledge about Viking life.

For instance, did you know that Vikings weren’t a nation of people, but seafaring warriors. Their gear—shield, axe, spear, and dagger—doubled as farm tools, and missing equipment could land them fines. Helmets? Super rare. Swords? So costly that only a few of the elite had them.

...and you have to try all the Viking activities!
 

You’ll find this wacky Viking village just a 20-minute drive from Flåm or a 25-minute drive from Aurland. And one last piece of advice: This is a must for your Flåm itinerary if you have kids!

 

5. Brave the Flåm Zipline

Fun fact: At 1,381 m (4,531 mi), this is the longest zipline in the Nordic countries. This bad boy will send you down the picturesque Flåm Valley at a maximum speed of 100 km/h (62 mi/h). You get the idea; if you’re a bit of a thrill-seeker, this is the tip for you.

Ziplining is another way to enjoy Flåm views
 

Did I partake? Hell no—thanks, but I’d rather not pay NOK 800 (USD 73) to soil myself. But still, I can’t argue that this shouldn’t be included in a list of the top things to do in Flåm and around Aurlandsfjord.

To get to the start of the zipline, you need to reach Vatnahalsen in the Flåm Valley, about a 45-minute drive inland from Aurlandsfjord. The zipline ends in a tiny place called Kårdal.

Pro tip: Combine this with a ride on the Flåm Railway, as Vatnahalsen is close to Myrdal. Once you reach Kårdal on the other end of the zipline, you can get back down to Flåm and Aurlandsfjord by hiking or by renting a bike.

 

6. Hike from Gudvangen to Rimstigen

Gudvangen
 

Key hike stats:

• Distance: 15.4 km (9.6 mi), out-and-back
• Elevation gain: 1,254 m (4,114 ft)  
• Difficulty: Hard
• Hiking time: 7 hours
• Trailhead: Google Maps link to trailhead

​The hike from Gudvangen to Rimstigen is beautiful but intense. So intense, in fact, that we only did a small part of it on one of our rest days, starting further along the trail (Google Maps link).

Many people choose to camp on their way, which makes the trek less of an ordeal. But as I’ve said many times before, tents, sleeping bags and the cold hard ground just aren’t my thing.

It takes around three hours each way and most of the time, you’re spoiled by fantastic views over Nærøyfjord—the entire selling point of the hike. The trail is steep, rocky, and slippery in parts, so you best come equipped with sturdy, gripping boots and your full attention.

See the route from Gudvangen to Rimstigen in more detail on Alltrails
 

Important recommendations for the hike from Gudvangen to Rimstigen:

1. Use a map and a compass as the mountain area is often shrouded in fog.
2. Check the weather forecast before you set out—don’t do this trek in bad weather.

If you’re an experienced hiker and just can’t get enough scrambling, consider what I think is the most challenging hike in Norway. Here's what happened when I attempted the Kjerag and Kjeragbolten trail...

 

7. Rent a kayak in Undredal

The stave church in Undredal is very mild compared to some others you can find in other places in Norway (give it a Google!)
 

Undredal is a village on the western bank of Aurlandsfjord known for two things: traditional brown goat’s cheese (geitost), and the smallest stave church in Northern Europe.

“What’s a stave church?” I hear you ask. It’s a medieval wooden church that has roofs on several levels, so the building looks a bit like a wedding cake, only pointier. You’ll find the few that are left exclusively in Northwest Europe.

Anyway, because of the church, Undredal gets a fair few visitors, which the poor 100 residents have to put up with. What doesn’t help is the fact that it’s also a major launch point for kayaking adventures on the fjord, and I couldn’t not mention this in an article on fun things to do in Flåm (sorry, not sorry).

Like I mentioned before, renting your own boat is a real treat when roaming around a fjord. As was the case with the motorboat, I got a whole new perspective, only the kayaking was obviously a lot slower.

Hop on a boat or kayak and explore the fjord to the fullest
 

Drive to Undredal from Flåm in about 20 minutes. You’ll then find the kayaks right next to Undredal Brygge Restaurant (which, with its large capital-letter signage on the side, is hard to miss). Prices start at NOK 500 (USD 45) for three hours, and double kayaks are available to rent as well.

 

8. Hike from Flåm to Brekkefossen

Brekkefossen waterfall
 

Key hike stats:

• Distance: 4.8 km (3 mi), out-and-back
• Elevation gain: 177 m (580 ft)  
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking time: 1.5 hours
• Trailhead: Google Maps link to trailhead

The walk to the Brekkefossen waterfall is short but it packs in enough elevation to make you break a sweat. Starting in Flåm, the trail immediately goes vertical (as you might notice, gentle slopes aren’t really a thing around the fjords). It then winds through lush greenery before opening up to a stunning panorama of the Flåm Valley, Flåm itself, and Aurlandsfjord.

Brekkefossen itself is a thunderous, picture-perfect waterfall that feels refreshingly close to the raw nature of Norway without the need for a multi-day expedition. The terrain alternates between rocky and muddy, especially if it’s rained recently—which, this being Norway, it probably has.

See the route from Flåm to Brekkefossen in more detail on Alltrails
 

Pro tips for the hike from Flåm to Brekkefossen:

1. Wear good hiking shoes. Slippery, rocky patches mean sneakers aren’t tough enough, unless you want to join Brekkefossen at the bottom.
2. Wear layers. The weather here is as temperamental as hell—it can switch from sunny to misty faster than you thought possible.
3. Allow two hours for it. Though it’s possible to push through in less time, trust me—you’ll want to stop for photos and the occasional breath.

 

9. Try out the FjordSauna

Try the Aurland FjordSauna.com
 

Welcome to FjordSauna—a steamy, floating sanctuary where you can sweat away your stress with a stunning fjord view! There are actually two FjordSaunas on Aurlandsfjord—one in Flåm and one in Aurland. The latter might be more convenient if you’re staying at the hotel I recommend.

The setup is small and sweet. There’s a changing room with pegs and shelves for your belongings, as well as a shower that operates in the summer months. But of course, the idea is that you won’t need a shower—it’s only meant for the wusses who can’t bring themselves to indulge in the whole point of the sauna, which is plunging into the fjord's icy water afterward.

We went to the Flåm sauna and were immediately greeted by the “Sauna Master” on arrival. They show you what’s what, and upon request, they’ll even take photos of your experience for you. Another thing I found fun was the hatch in the floor in the sauna room itself, so we got to descend into the fjord right there and then.

FjordSauna in Flåm. Check fjordsauna.com
 

You can choose to rent a private sauna for 1.5 hours or take a spot in a public sauna for the same duration. Each option holds up to 12 people and needs to be booked in advance at fjordsauna.com.

Two final things to bear in mind before heading to the FjordSauna:

1. There are no restrooms, so use one of the public bathrooms in the vicinity beforehand.
2. Even within Europe, different cultures have different rules when it comes to what (not) to wear in a sauna. To save you from any embarrassment: here, bathing suits are mandatory.

Bonus tip: The Ægir microbrewery is just around the corner from the Flåm sauna, and I could think of no better way to end my sweaty experience than with a cold craft beer. Styled like a Viking feasting hall, it’s a very kooky bar, although the service is famously slow.

 

10. Drive through the Lærdal Tunnel

Drive through the 24.5 km long Laerdal Tunnel
 

Claustrophobics, scroll on. At 24.5 km (15.4 mi), the Laerdal Tunnel through the Aurlandsfjord cliffside is the longest road tunnel in the world. It was completed in 2000 to connect the cities of Oslo and Bergen via Aurland and Lærdal (a municipality on the Sognefjord bank).

The 20-minute drive through this impressive engineering feat is an adventure in and of itself! The tunnel contains mountain cave rest stops with special lighting to mimic sunrise, as well as its own air treatment plant to combat pollution.

And rest assured, there are plenty of safety features in place, including emergency phones, enhanced radio signal, and monitoring centers in Lærdal and Bergen.

How much does it cost to go on such a thrilling drive? Nothing! Considering how much it cost (NOK 1.082 billion [USD 98 million]), I was surprised to hear that the Lærdal Tunnel is toll-free.

 

11. Go on a speedboat fjord safari

Try FjordSafari.com!
 

I know I’m not one to champion the fjord cruise, but if piloting your own boat sounds daunting, this is kind of a happy medium. FjordSafari offers tours in smaller, guided boats around both Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord with fantastic wildlife spotting. We saw dolphins and sea otters on ours, which was really cool!

FjordSafari offers several variations of fjord safaris to book in advance on their website, all departing from Flåm, just a stone’s throw away from the Flåm Railway Museum. Prices hover around NOK 1100 (USD 100), depending on the duration of the tour you choose, and whether there are any bells and whistles on it.

For example, one deal they offer is a summer fjord safari with a sampling of that brown cheese in Undredal. Or you can opt for their “Winter Magic” package, which includes a fjord safari, a session in the FjordSauna, and a “Viking dinner” at the Ægir microbrewery.

Practical fjord safari tips: Wear long sleeves and pants as it gets windy on the fjords, no matter what time of year it is. Also, avoid wearing open shoes such as sandals, unless you want wet feet.

Flåm is amazing!

 

Things to do in Flåm (Aurlandsfjord) that aren’t worth it

A heads-up: These are two tips that you’ll find in a lot of articles on things to do around Aurlandfjord, but I wouldn’t say they’re worth the effort.

A scenic fjord cruise? It’s better to go solo

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: fjord cruise isn’t worth it when you can rent a motorboat, rent a kayak, or go on a fjord safari. Any of these are better options, in my opinion.

As a reminder, here’s how to take to the water in ways alternative to a fjord cruise:

• Motorboat rental: Flåm Boat Rental next to the Marina restaurant in Flåm
• Kayak rental: Undredal kayaking next to Undredal Brygge Restaurant in Undredal
• Fjord safari: FjordSafari in front of Flåm Railway Station in Flåm

There are much better options how to properly explore the fjords under your own management

The churches are all very same-y

As interesting as it can be to look at rural Norwegian church after rural Norwegian church, there are lots of things to do in Flåm that are more fun, so frankly, you’d be wasting your time here.

If you love churches so much, I’d recommend spending some time in a bigger town or city. Take Stavanger, for instance; check out my top recommendations for a perfect few days in Stavanger.

 

FAQ 1: Is Flåm, Norway worth visiting?

Flåm is absolutely worth visiting, so be sure to make space for it on your Norway itinerary. This village at the end of Aurlandsfjord is a must-visit for its amazing landscapes, rich Viking history, and unique activities like the Flåmsbana rail route, fjord cruises, and ziplining.

She’s sooo right!
 

What makes Flåm so popular is that it offers a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility. Its proximity to UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord also makes it a standout destination, especially for nature and wildlife lovers. While it can get crowded in summer, some thoughtful planning will ensure an unforgettable experience at one of Norway’s top destinations.

 

FAQ 2: How much time do you need in Flåm?

If you’re visiting Flåm as part of a Norwegian fjord cruise or you're otherwise short on time, a day trip can highlight key attractions such as the scenic Flåm Railway, the Stegastein Viewpoint, and a motorboat trip. However, staying three to five days lets you enjoy the serenity of the area at a slower pace, especially in quieter early mornings or evenings.

With this extra time, you can take some waterfall hikes, visit Gudvangen and Undredal, relax in the floating FjordSauna, and more. All in all, I recommend staying in and around Flåm for the best part of a week to be able to hit everything on my 11-point list of fun things to do.

3-5 days is enough to explore it all in Flåm

How to spend one day in Flåm

If you really can’t stay in Flåm longer than a day, here are the very best things to do that you should prioritize:

• Rent a motorboat to explore Aurlandsfjord
• Ride the Flåm Railway
• Hike from Flåm to Brekkefossen
• Try out the FjordSauna

Good to know: A trip on the Flåm Railway plus a fjord boat ride is known as the “Norway in a nutshell” day-trip experience.

 

FAQ 3: How do you get to Aurlandsfjord?

There are two practical ways to get to Aurlandsfjord (and to Flåm in turn):

• By Norwegian fjord cruise: Many large cruise liners include Nærøyfjord and Aurlandsfjord (both being branches of the larger Sognefjord) on their package-deal Norwegian fjord route.
• By car: Bergen is the nearest major city to Aurlandsfjord, and it takes around 2.5 hours to drive from Bergen to Flåm. This is what I recommend you do, as planning your own vacation and hiring a car gives you so much more freedom.

I prefer to travel by car whenever it’s possible. It’s simply the most comfortable way

 

FAQ 4: How deep is the water in Aurlandsfjord?

Aurlandsfjord reaches a maximum depth of 962 m (3,156 ft) below sea level, making it one of the deepest fjords in Norway. This makes sense as the deepest Norwegian fjord is actually Sognefjord, of which Aurlandsfjord is a branch.

 

FAQ 5: Is it better to stay in Flåm or Aurland?

Whether it’s better to find accommodation in Flåm or in Aurland depends on what time of year you’re visiting, what your budget is, how long you’re staying for, and what you want to see and do. Here are some quick pros and cons of both villages to help you decide:

Staying in Flåm (best for 1–2 nights)...

• Pros: The most central base for exploring Aurlandsfjord; many activities are right on your doorstep
• Cons: Incredibly busy, especially during the summer months; prices are higher

Staying in Aurland (best for 3–5 nights)...

• Pros: Less busy; there’s no cruise ship dock; prices are lower
• Cons: Slightly further away from most places of interest; very few restaurants (consider self-catering accommodation)

 

 

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