Cover Photo: The Flam line, only 20 kilometers (about 13 miles) long, is a popular rail adventure in Norway. The Flamsbana train ride takes about 1 hour and offers stunning views on the journey from Myrdal to Flam and back, making it one of the best train rides in Europe.

We had the privilege of finding this gem on one of our excursions through MSC Euribia—a remarkable seven-day cruise that took us through Norway’s version of magnificent backdrops. This intimate excursion through the Aurlandsfjord was a scenic dream-like experience and a must for travelers of all ages.

Flamsbana station

Docking in the early morning at Flam set a magical temperament, filling the air with the promise of adventure as we prepared for a day dedicated to exploring the breathtaking vistas that surrounded us. The anticipation was palpable as we embarked on what would become the heart of this unforgettable train journey of a lifetime, where each twist and turn of the tracks revealed new landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and steep mountains adorned with lush greenery, enriching our experience with the beauty of Norway’s natural wonders and leaving us in awe of Mother Nature’s artistry. A little sprinkle of rain didn’t dampen the excursion,. it brought magic and wonder. We started this journey just a few yards from the ship port- a small walk to the Flamsbana station.

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Stepping in on the platform made it seemed like a step back in time. The nostalgic look on the locomotive made it seemed like a scene from an early 1900 movie. The giggles from the kids muffled conversation punctuates the soft cool morning mist echoing through the valley and the nearby Fjords.

Round Trip with the Flåm Railway

Each year, this breathtaking stretch of railway captivates travelers from every corner of the globe, establishing The Flåm Railway as one of Norway’s most enchanting and awe-inspiring tourist attractions. As you set out on this remarkable journey, you will be enveloped by stunning landscapes, from towering mountains to verdant valleys and mesmerizing waterfalls. The train gracefully navigates through a network of tunnels, revealing magnificent panoramic views of the fjord and the picturesque villages that punctuate the route, making every moment truly unforgettable.

Traveling on The Flåm Railway is not merely a journey; it’s an exhilarating experience that etches unforgettable memories into your soul as you behold the beauty of the untouched Norwegian fjords. Whether you’re an intrepid adventurer or embarking on your very first journey, this train ride guarantees an extraordinary escapade that unveils the true essence of Norway’s natural wonders. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in this iconic route as you explore the stunning landscapes of Norway.

Besides its breathtaking vistas, The Flåm Railway is a vibrant tapestry woven with history and culture. Opened in 1940, this marvel of engineering was born out of a vision to transport goods and beloved inhabitants to the enchanting village of Flåm. Today, it stands as a powerful testament to Norway’s indomitable spirit and dedication to uniting its people with inspiring landscapes that define this magnificent country.

Where is Flam?

Flåm is located in the idyllic Aurlandsfjord, which is known as one of Norway’s most beautiful fjords, characterized by its steep mountains, lush valleys, and enchanting waterfalls that cascade into the crystalline waters below. Aurlandsfjorden is an offshoot on the southern side of the vast, stunning Sognefjorden, the longest fjord in the world, providing visitors with breathtaking views at every turn. This stunning region is dotted with charming villages and offers countless outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to cycling along scenic trails. It’s one of the most picturesque regions of Norway, and it’s well worth exploring for its natural beauty as well as cultural richness.

The Journey: Flam to Myrdal and back

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As we boarded the train, I found the time to race back to the platform to collect this sentiment of my family as they collectively exchanged a genuine smile of excitement and relief that we all shared as we found our assigned panoramic seating arrangement and space—all to ourselves, absorbing the absolute beautiful Norway!

The Flåm Railway offers a scenic one-hour journey from sea level at the Aurlandsfjord to Myrdal mountain station, which is 867 meters above sea level. This journey connects travelers to the Bergen Line for seamless access between Bergen and Oslo. Passengers ride in vintage compartments, experiencing the stunning landscapes of the Flåm Valley, including agricultural fields, the charming Flåm village, and the historical Flåm church. The route features a sparkling blue river alongside the tracks and cozy farms, showcasing rural Norwegian life. A highlight of the trip is a five-minute stop at Kjosfossen waterfall, where passengers can enjoy the powerful cascades and capture beautiful photos, making the journey unforgettable.

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The world’s most beautiful train ride

The Flåm Railway is celebrated as one of Europe’s top train journeys by National Geographic Traveler Magazine and was named the best in the world by Lonely Planet in 2014, making it a must-do experience in Norway and a major tourist attraction. Each twist and turn of the journey reveals the dazzling beauty of Norway’s nature, making it not just a mode of transport but a memorable adventure that showcases the country’s rich heritage and stunning scenery, attracting visitors from all around the globe who seek to immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere of the Norwegian fjords.

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The 20-km railway line is one of the steepest in the world, with 80% of it on a 5.5% gradient. This impressive engineering feat not only connects vital transportation routes but also provides stunning views for passengers traveling through rugged areas. It features 20 tunnels, 18 of which were hand-built by skilled craftsmen using traditional methods, including one that makes a 180-degree turn inside the mountain, offering an exciting experience for travelers. Each tunnel showcases human creativity and effort, highlighting how architects and engineers tackled major geographical challenges to realize this ambitious project.

In 2011, the esteemed Society of International Railway Travelers proclaimed the Flåm Railway to be one of the world’s top 25 most beautiful train journeys, a recognition that highlights its stunning landscapes and breathtaking views. This remarkable railway offers travelers a unique experience as they traverse through majestic fjords.

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These trains are designed for scenic travel, featuring large windows for panoramic views and comfortable seating with a nostalgic wooden interior. 

In 2015, it set a new passenger record of 781,427, a significant increase in travel demand and showcasing the growing popularity of its services. This remarkable achievement underscored the organization’s commitment to enhancing its operations, improving customer experience, and expanding its reach to accommodate more travelers than ever before.

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From the cozy embrace of a vintage train compartment, immerse yourself in the breathtaking transformation of the Flåm Valley’s scenery. As the train glides smoothly through lush agricultural landscapes, the charming old Flåm village center, and the historic church, a sense of wonder envelops you. The shimmering blue river dances alongside the railway for much of the journey, guiding you past quaint farms nestled in the most unexpected and picturesque locations, making you marvel at the tenacity of life in this enchanting land.

What are other things to do in Flam?

Cruise

Experience the breathtaking Fjord cruise and embark on an unforgettable boat trip through the stunning Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty, characterized by its narrow and dramatic fjords surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. As you glide along the pristine waters, take in the awe-inspiring landscapes, with cascading waterfalls and quaint villages dotting the shoreline, creating a serene atmosphere that captures the essence of Norway’s majestic wilderness.

Hiking

Experience the beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys by hiking through them on foot. Flåm beckons adventurers with a myriad of enchanting trails, catering to every skill level. Don’t miss the chance to trek to the mesmerizing Stegastein viewpoint, where panoramic vistas of the magnificent Aurlandsfjord will steal your breath away.

Other activities in Flam

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Experience Scandinavia’s longest zipline and the waterfall near Flåm Marina, where you can enjoy the spray and take beautiful photos. Bike along the historic route from Myrdal to Flåm, passing through forests and lakes, or explore the fjords by kayak or paddle board. Don’t miss visiting a nearby historic church, rich in architecture and heritage.

India and Joel enjoying the swing at the seaport, catching the playful sun as it glided along, fog and rain clouds playing spotlight on the beautiful fjords that towered over the serene surroundings.

The charm of Norway and its immaculate cascading vistas took my breath away as it welcomed my family with an inspiring and mystical journey. Immersing into the valleys and foothills of Flam and deep into the quaint town of Myrdal was a moment of clarity and peace as the train ride beckoned an immediate joy traversing through time, engineering marvels, and the peaceful, serene landscape. This will be one of those joyful recollections locked in time as I recollect core memories with my family.

Life is beautiful. It is the here and the now. Seeing this wonder face to face brought out every bit of years of life. The joy, sustained its gentleness. I only had to look over my shoulder and instantly whispered a burst of prayer as my family collected smiles that I would forever hold. Thank you, Norway. This is truly once in a lifetime.

Thank you for the coffee!