Is the Bergen to Flåm Day Trip Worth It? Quick Facts for 2025
Planning a trip to Bergen and wondering if the legendary Flåm Railway journey is worth a full day? The answer is a resounding yes! For those who love jaw-dropping scenery and epic train journeys, it’s an unforgettable experience. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Duration | 10-12 hours (a full, rewarding day) |
| Distance (Bergen-Flåm) | Approx. 170 km (105 miles) by road |
| Approx. DIY Cost | 1,800 – 2,500 NOK per person |
| Best Time to Go | May – September for lush scenery and waterfalls |
| Main Highlight | The Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) & Aurlandsfjord Scenery |
How to Get to the Flåm Railway from Bergen in 2025
One of the first questions travelers ask is, “How do I get to the Flåm Railway from Bergen?” You have three excellent options for your 2025 adventure, each catering to a different travel style. Let’s break them down.
Option 1: The Independent DIY Method by Train
For the adventurous planner who loves control over their schedule, booking the trains yourself is the perfect choice. It’s a straightforward two-step process:
- Book the Main Line: First, book your ticket on the stunning Bergen Line from Bergen to Myrdal station. This journey itself is spectacular, climbing into the high mountains of Norway.
- Book the Flåm Railway: Second, book your separate ticket for the world-famous Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) from Myrdal down to Flåm.
You can book both tickets directly through the Vy website or their official app. Crucial tip: When booking, ensure you leave at least 15-20 minutes for the transfer at the tiny Myrdal station. It’s a simple cross-platform change, but you don’t want to be rushed!
- Pros: Gives you full control over your timetable, allows you to spend as much time in Flåm as you wish, and can be cheaper if you snag advance, non-flexible tickets.
- Cons: Requires careful planning to coordinate train times. The most popular Flåm Railway departures can sell out months in advance, so you must book early.
Option 2: The All-in-One “Norway in a Nutshell®” Tour
If you prefer convenience over complexity, the “Norway in a Nutshell®” package from Fjord Tours is your answer. It’s not a guided tour with a leader, but rather a brilliantly curated package of tickets that creates a seamless, scenic loop from Bergen and back.
The classic route includes:
- Train from Bergen to Myrdal
- The Flåm Railway from Myrdal to Flåm
- A stunning fjord cruise from Flåm to Gudvangen on the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord
- A bus ride up the breathtaking Stalheimskleiva road (in summer) from Gudvangen to Voss
- A final train from Voss back to Bergen
- Pros: Incredibly easy – one booking handles all your tickets and guarantees the connections work. You get to see the fjord by boat as well as the train.
- Cons: It’s the most expensive option, offers zero flexibility, and you’ll be traveling with large crowds on a set schedule.
Option 3: By Car
For those who have a rental car and crave ultimate freedom, driving is a viable option. The drive from Bergen to Flåm along the E16 takes about 2.5-3 hours and is a scenic journey filled with tunnels, including the nearby Lærdal Tunnel, the world’s longest road tunnel.
However, for a day trip focused on the railway, this method has a catch. You’ll need to park your car in Flåm (parking can cost ~250 NOK per day) and then purchase a round-trip ticket on the Flåm Railway up to Myrdal and back down. This means you’ll see the same scenery twice.
- Pros: Complete flexibility to stop wherever you like, such as the impressive Stegastein Viewpoint on your own schedule.
- Cons: You miss the scenic Bergen Line train journey. You’ll pay for fuel, tolls (~200-300 NOK), and expensive parking.
| Method | Best For | Approx. Cost (p.p.) | Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Train | Budget-conscious planners | 1500-2200 NOK | High |
| Tour Package | Convenience seekers | 2,590+ NOK | Low |
| Car | Those with a rental | Varies (Fuel + Tolls + Tickets) | Very High |
Top 5 Things to Do on Your Flåm Day Trip
You’ve arrived in the fjord-side paradise of Flåm! A day trip is short, so you need to prioritize. Here are the absolute must-do activities for an unforgettable day.
- Ride the Famous Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana)
This is the star of the show! The 20 km journey from the mountain station of Myrdal down to Flåm is a masterpiece of engineering, descending 867 meters through a dramatic valley. You’ll pass cascading waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and tiny mountain farms clinging to the slopes. The train makes a 5-minute photo stop at the powerful Kjosfossen waterfall, where, in the summer, a mythical “Huldra” (a forest spirit from Norse folklore) appears to dance and sing. - Take a Fjord Cruise on the Nærøyfjord
You can’t come to Flåm and not get out on the water. The Aurlandsfjord and the adjoining Nærøyfjord (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) are breathtaking. You have two main options: the classic 2-hour ferry to Gudvangen, or for thrill-seekers, a high-speed Fjord Safari on a RIB boat. The RIB boat gets you closer to the waterfalls and offers a more personal experience. - See the View from Stegastein Viewpoint
For a postcard-perfect view, take the 30-minute bus tour up to the Stegastein Viewpoint. This stunning architectural platform juts out 30 meters from the mountainside, hanging 650 meters directly above the Aurlandsfjord. The panoramic view is simply spellbinding. Remember to book this bus tour in advance to fit it into your tight day-trip schedule. - Visit the Flåm Railway Museum
Located right next to the train station, this fantastic museum is completely free to enter. It tells the incredible story of how this impossibly steep railway was built. It’s the perfect activity if you have 30-45 minutes to spare while waiting for your train or boat and provides a deep appreciation for the journey you just took. - Enjoy Lunch at Ægir BryggeriPub
This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Housed in a building inspired by a Viking longhouse, Ægir BryggeriPub is a legendary brewpub. Warm yourself by the central fireplace, sample a plank of their award-winning craft beers, and enjoy hearty food with a Norse twist. It’s the perfect way to refuel and soak in the atmosphere of Flåm.
Sample Bergen to Flåm Day Trip Itinerary (DIY Train)
Feeling overwhelmed with the planning? Here is a sample step-by-step itinerary you can adapt for your own 2025 trip. (Note: Always check the latest Vy train schedules when booking!)
- 7:30 AM: Arrive at Bergen Station. Give yourself time to grab a coffee and a traditional Norwegian pastry (skillingsbolle) for the ride.
- 7:57 AM: Your train departs Bergen for Myrdal. Settle in for a beautiful 2-hour journey across Norway’s mountain plateau.
- 10:05 AM: Arrive at Myrdal Station. This high-altitude station is exposed to the elements! Follow the signs for the Flåmsbana, usually waiting on an adjacent platform.
- 10:15 AM: The Flåm Railway departs Myrdal. Insider Tip: Grab a seat on the right-hand side of the train for the absolute best views on the way down!
- 11:10 AM: Welcome to Flåm! You’ve arrived at the heart of the fjords.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Time to explore. Visit the free Flåm Railway Museum, take photos by the fjord, and grab lunch. Choose Flåm Bakeri for a quick bite or settle in at Ægir BryggeriPub for a full experience.
- 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM (Optional Add-On): If you’ve pre-booked, now is the perfect time for a 2-hour Fjord Safari on a RIB boat. It’s a thrilling way to see the fjords up close.
- 4:00 PM: Make your way back to the Flåm station. Don’t be late for the return journey!
- 4:50 PM: The Flåm Railway departs Flåm, beginning its incredible ascent back to Myrdal.
- 5:45 PM: Arrive back at Myrdal. Transfer to your Bergen-bound train.
- 5:55 PM: Depart Myrdal on the main line train back to Bergen. Relax and enjoy the scenery in reverse.
- 8:00 PM: Arrive back at Bergen Station, full of amazing memories from your day in the fjords.
Where to Eat in Flåm (For a Quick Day Trip)
With limited time, you need food options that are both delicious and efficient. Flåm has two standout choices for day-trippers.
Budget & Fast: Flåm Bakeri
This is your go-to spot for a quick, affordable, and delicious lunch. The bakery offers fantastic freshly made sandwiches, pastries, and some of the best cinnamon buns (kanelboller) you’ll ever taste. Grab your food and find a bench along the fjord for an unbeatable lunch view. Price Range: 50 – 150 NOK.
The Experience: Ægir BryggeriPub
If you want to make your meal a memorable part of the trip, head to Ægir. The Viking hall atmosphere is unforgettable. We recommend their “Viking Plank” – a 5-course beer and food pairing that showcases local flavors. Just be sure to budget at least 1.5 hours for this sit-down experience. Price Range: 300 – 500 NOK for a main course.
Insider Tips for the Perfect Trip
A little planning goes a long way. Here are our top tips to make your 2025 Bergen to Flåm day trip flawless.
- Book Everything in Advance! This cannot be overstated. The Flåm Railway is incredibly popular and sells out weeks, sometimes months, in advance for summer travel (June-August). Book your spot 2-3 months ahead to avoid heartbreak.
- Sit on the Right Side: For the journey from Myrdal down to Flåm, the most dramatic waterfalls and views are on the right-hand side of the train car. Try to grab a seat there for the best photos.
- Dress in Layers: Weather in Norway is famously unpredictable. The high-altitude Myrdal station can be cold and windy, while down in Flåm it might be calm and sunny. A waterproof/windproof jacket, a fleece, and comfortable shoes are essential, even in summer.
- Pack Snacks and Water: While you can buy food in Flåm, having your own snacks and a reusable water bottle saves time and money, especially for the long train segments of the day.
- Charge Your Devices: You will be taking hundreds of photos and videos. Bring a portable power bank to ensure your phone and camera batteries last the entire 12-hour day.
What to Pack Checklist
- [ ] Waterproof and Windproof Jacket
- [ ] Comfortable Walking Shoes
- [ ] Warm Layer (fleece or sweater)
- [ ] Camera and/or Smartphone
- [ ] Portable Power Bank
- [ ] Reusable Water Bottle
- [ ] Sunglasses and Sunscreen (the sun reflecting off the water can be strong!)
- [ ] Credit Card (widely accepted) and a small amount of Norwegian Krone (NOK)
- [ ] Your pre-booked tickets (digital on your phone is fine)
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person, 2025)
Here’s a sample budget to help you plan your expenses. Prices are approximate and can vary based on when you book and your choices. (Exchange rates approx. 1 USD = 10.5 NOK, 1 EUR = 11.5 NOK).
| Expense | Budget (DIY) | Mid-Range (Tour) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | ~1,800 NOK | ~2,590 NOK (included) |
| Lunch | ~150 NOK (Bakery) | ~400 NOK (Brewpub) |
| Activities | Free (Museum) | Included in tour |
| Coffee/Snacks | ~100 NOK | ~100 NOK |
| TOTAL (NOK) | ~2,050 NOK | ~3,090 NOK |
| TOTAL (Approx. USD) | ~$195 USD | ~$290 USD |
| TOTAL (Approx. EUR) | ~€180 EUR | ~€270 EUR |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip from Bergen to Flåm?
Yes, absolutely. A day trip from Bergen to Flåm is one of the most popular and spectacular excursions in Norway. It is a long but very manageable day, typically lasting between 10-12 hours, allowing you to experience both the Bergen Line and the famous Flåm Railway in one go.
How far in advance should I book the Flåm Railway?
You should book as far in advance as possible. For the peak season (June to August), we strongly recommend booking at least 2-3 months ahead. Tickets sell out very quickly, and booking early is the only way to guarantee your spot on your desired departure time.
Is the train from Bergen to Flåm scenic?
The entire journey is incredibly scenic! It’s a two-part trip. The first train from Bergen to Myrdal (the Bergen Line) is famed as one of Europe’s most beautiful rail journeys, crossing a stark and stunning mountain plateau. The second train, the Flåm Railway from Myrdal to Flåm, is the main event and is world-renowned for its steep, winding descent past countless waterfalls into the fjord valley.
How do I get to the Flåm Railway from Bergen?
The best and most common way is by train. You take a train on the main Bergen Line from Bergen Station to the mountain interchange at Myrdal Station. At Myrdal, you get off and transfer to the separate Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) line for the final, breathtaking 1-hour journey down to the village of Flåm.
TL;DR? Your 2025 Flåm Day Trip Cheat Sheet
- Book Early: Reserve your Flåm Railway tickets 2-3 months in advance for summer travel. They WILL sell out.
- Take the Train: The DIY train method offers the best balance of cost and flexibility. Book via the Vy app.
- Sit on the Right: When traveling from Myrdal down to Flåm, the best views are on the right side of the train.
- Dress in Layers: Pack a waterproof jacket and a warm sweater. The weather changes dramatically from the mountains to the fjord.
