Riding the Spectacular Flåm Railway

National Geographic Traveler magazine called the Flåm Railway one of the top 10 train journeys in Europe. Lonely Planet went even further, naming it the best train journey in the world. It was definitely one of the most beautiful—and steepest—railways I have ever ridden, and I will always remember my ride on “the little green train”.

The Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) is a breathtaking 20 km journey that climbs 866 metres from the fjord village of Flåm to the mountain station of Myrdal. Myrdal is connected to both Bergen and Oslo by regular trains.

My Overall Rating: 100%
Route: Flåm to Myrdal
Operator: Vy (for Flåm Utvikling/Bane NOR)
Fare Paid: 500–650 NOK (about $75–95 AUD, depending on season and how early you book)
Why ride it: Jaw-dropping scenery, dizzying gradients, waterfalls, tunnels, and a true taste of Norway’s wild side
Negatives: Pricey, can be crowded in summer, and the ride is over all too soon
Would I do it again? In a heartbeat—Can I please do it every year>

Booking

Booking tickets for the Flåm Railway is straightforward. I reserved online via the official Vy website, but you can also use the Vy app or buy tickets at Flåm or Myrdal stations. Just scan your QR code on boarding. Trains fill up quickly in summer, so book as early as possible. Seats are not reserved.

You can ride the train between Flåm and Myrdal in either direction, or do a return trip. Many people combine the train with a fjord cruise, a bike ride, or a hike along the old navvies’ road. There are also options to zipline part of the way down. You can travel Oslo–Myrdal, change to the Flåm Railway, and continue to Bergen, or take the Norled ferry to Bergen (or vice versa). Numerous packages combine the ferry, Flåm Railway, and Bergen Railway if you don’t want to organise everything independently.

The Train

Hauled by an electric engine at each end, the six-carriage train is made up of classic, comfortable, heated carriages with big windows designed for sightseeing. Seats are arranged facing each other in pairs or trios, so you may be sharing with a group of four or six people, and there’s plenty of space for luggage and wheelchairs. The train is electric, smooth, and quiet, letting you really soak in the scenery. There’s no café car, so bring snacks and drinks for the journey.

Along the Line

The journey from Flåm to Myrdal (or vice versa) takes about an hour and features a series of unforgettable sights:

Flåm Station (2m):
This tiny village feels like the end of the world. Start right at the water’s edge, just a short walk from the dock for ferries to and from Bergen and other destinations. You’ll find a hotel, gift shop, the famous Flåm Bakery, a Co-op supermarket for supplies, and a free railway museum with history displays, an engine, and a carriage. The station platforms are uncovered.
Trains start boarding 10 to 15 minutes prior to departure—don’t be late!
Brekkefossen: Just a few minutes after departing Flåm, this powerful, multi-tiered waterfall comes into sight. The train sometimes stops at Lunden station, which gives views of the fall. You can easily spot Brekkefossen from the carriage windows. I hiked up the 150 metres from its base, about 1.5 km from Flåm station, for even better views.
Rjoandefossen: A little further along, also on the right, is the spectacular Rjoandefossen—a 241-metre waterfall with three vertical drops, the tallest being about 140 metres. It’s easily seen from the train and is one of the most impressive falls in the valley.
Dalsbotn, Blomheller, Håreina: Tiny stations, each with their own slice of valley or mountain scenery. The train only stops at these for requests. On my trip, passengers got off for various hikes and photo spots.
Berekvam: The only passing loop—my train stopped for a few minutes so another train could pass. Passengers could step off, and we could easily spot the smaller falls of Tunnshello and Kardalsfossen on the left side going up.
Kjosfossen Waterfall:
One of the best photo opportunities of this journey is a stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall. Here, as passengers disembark on the viewing platform for a short break, a mysterious woman with long hair and a red dress emerges from the forest, dancing to a Norwegian folk song.
She is the Huldra, an elusive forest spirit from Norse mythology. According to local folklore, she lures men into the woods to seduce them. The Huldra is actually an act by students from the Norwegian Ballet School.
Pro tip: Wear a rain jacket at the Kjosfossen waterfall viewing platform. It’s also a good idea to protect your camera or phone against water damage from the waterfall’s spray. Rest assured, the experience is every bit as magical as the myth.
Vatnahalsen & Reinunga: The train clings to the cliffside, with tunnels and bridges galore.
Myrdal Station (867m): Finish high in the mountains, where you can connect to trains to Bergen or Oslo.

My Top Suggestions

Go Off-Peak: Spring and autumn have fewer crowds and the scenery is just as stunning.
Book Ahead: Trains fill up quickly, especially in summer.
Bring Snacks: There’s no food or drink on board, so bring a snack or grab something in Flåm or Myrdal.
Visit the Flåm Railway Museum: Free entry, fascinating stories, old photos, and even a full-size carriage.
Pair with a Fjord Cruise or Hike: Combine your train ride with a cruise on the Nærøyfjord or a walk/cycle along the old navvies’ road. Try the zipline if you’re feeling brave.

The Experience

Considered one of the most beautiful—and steepest—railways in the world, a ride on “the little green train” is one you will surely remember… and not just for the window views. You’ll pass snow-capped peaks, wild gorges, mountain farms, and waterfalls tumbling hundreds of metres. The whole journey is about an hour, but you’ll be talking about it for years.

Practical Tips

No food or drink on board, so bring a snack or grab something in Flåm or Myrdal.
Toilets are available at both stations and on the train.
No Wi-Fi on board, but decent mobile coverage for most of the journey.
Dress for the weather— it can change quickly, especially up at Myrdal.

Final Thoughts

The Flåm Railway is a must-do for anyone visiting Norway, whether you’re a train buff, a nature lover, or just after a taste of something extraordinary. It’s not cheap, and it can be crowded, but the combination of scenery and engineering is world-class. If you’re planning a trip to the fjords, make sure you put this ride at the top of your list.