If you’re trying to figure out how to get from Bergen to Flåm, you’re in the right place.
I live in Bergen and grew up by the fjords near Flåm, so this is a route I know very well. Whether you want the most scenic option, the cheapest route, or the easiest way to reach the fjords without renting a car, I’ll break it all down for you in this guide.
Flåm is one of the most popular fjord destinations in Norway, and for good reason. It sits at the end of the Aurlandsfjord, with close access to the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, and is also home to the famous Flåm Railway.
The good news? Getting there from Bergen is actually quite easy.
You can travel between Bergen and Flåm by:
- train
- bus
- car
- boat
- guided tour
Each option has its own pros and cons depending on your budget, timeline and travel style.
Below, I’ll help you figure out which option is best for your Norway trip.
Table of Contents
Quick Answer: Best Ways to Get From Bergen to Flåm
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick overview of the best ways to travel from Bergen to Flåm.
| Option | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Train via Myrdal + the Flåm Railway | ~3 hours | Most scenic overall experience |
| Bus | ~3 hours | Budget travelers |
| Rental Car | ~2.5–3 hours | Flexibility and road trips |
| Express Boat | ~5.5 hours | Seeing the fjords from the water |
| Guided Tour / Norway in a Nutshell | Full day | Stress-free planning |
My recommendation
For most first-time visitors, I recommend taking the train from Bergen to Flåm via Myrdal.
Not only is it one of the easiest options, but it also includes the famous Flåm Railway (one of the most scenic train rides in Norway, and maybe even Europe).
If you have extra time and want to experience the fjords from the water, the express boat between Bergen and Flåm is also incredibly beautiful in the summer months.
What Is the Best Way to Travel From Bergen to Flåm?
The best way to travel from Bergen to Flåm depends entirely on what kind of trip you want to have.
Personally, I almost always recommend the train for first-time visitors. It is scenic, comfortable, easy to book, and includes the famous Flåm Railway between Myrdal and Flåm. Also, it means you will have already “crossed” the Flåm Railway off your list upon your arrival to Flåm.
However, each transport option has its own advantages.
Take the train if:
- this is your first trip to Norway
- you want to experience the Flåm Railway
- you prefer scenic travel without driving
- you are travelling year-round
Take the bus if:
- you are travelling on a budget
- you want a direct route without changing trains
- you want reliable WiFi and charging outlets
Rent a car if:
- you want flexibility
- you plan to explore the fjords beyond Flåm
- you want to stop at viewpoints and towns/villages along the way
Take the express boat if:
- you are visiting in summer
- you want the most unique and scenic journey
- you love being on the water
Book a guided tour if:
- you don’t want to organise transport yourself
- you are short on planning time
- you want everything bundled together in one booking
No matter which option you choose, the journey from Bergen to Flåm is beautiful. In my opinion, this route is one of the highlights of travelling in western Norway.
Read later: The best fjord cruises from Bergen
How to get from Bergen to Flåm (and from Flåm to Bergen)
You’ll be surprised when I tell you that there are actually 5 different ways to get from Bergen to Flåm.
Considering that the two destinations are only around 170
Before you leave Bergen, though, make sure to visit some of my favourite restaurants in town!
Regardless of how you decide to travel, please take note of the websites I share with you in this post. They are the official websites for whatever mode of transport I mention, and they are the ones you should check before you set off on your trip.
In western Norway, not only are the roads tricky, but we also have rather frequent land slides that can lead to road closures and train cancellations. Therefore, staying up to date on news and road conditions is vital when traveling in Norway.
Also, please take careful note of which website and tour operator you have booked through (if booking a tour). They will be the ones responsible for you if anything goes wrong.
Not that you should expect things to go wrong all the time, but if you have booked a Norway in a Nutshell tour through FjordTours, for example, and the train (which is operated by Vy) isn’t running for some reason, it is FjordTours (and not Vy) you should be focusing your efforts on contacting. But more on this in each section below.
Side note: since you are visiting Flåm, you’ll want to get your hands on my guidebook to the area! Click the button below to learn more and buy it!
Another great route from Bergen takes you to Hardanger and the beautiful Hardangerfjord. Along the way, I recommend stopping and seeing Ulvik, which is absolutely stunning.
Bergen to Flåm by Train (Most Scenic Option)
Traveling from Bergen to Flåm by train is, in my opinion, the best and most scenic way to make the journey.
The route includes the famous Flåm Railway, one of Norway’s most iconic train journeys. To get to Flåm from Bergen, you’ll first take the Bergen Railway to Myrdal, before changing trains there to continue down to Flåm on the Flåm Railway.
The full journey takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the connection in Myrdal.
Bergen to Flåm train route
- Bergen → Myrdal (Bergen Railway)
- Myrdal → Flåm (Flåm Railway)
The transfer in Myrdal is very straightforward, and the Flåm Railway platform is just steps away from the Bergen train.
Why I recommend the train
For most visitors, this is the easiest and most memorable way to reach the fjords from Bergen.
You’ll get:
- beautiful mountain scenery
- the Flåm Railway experience
- no driving stress
- a comfortable year-round option
The final stretch between Myrdal and Flåm is especially spectacular, as the train descends from the mountains down to the fjord through waterfalls, valleys and steep mountain landscapes.
Booking Bergen to Flåm train tickets
Train tickets in Norway are booked through Vy, Norway’s national railway company.
One thing many travelers don’t realise is that when you book Bergen-Flåm directly through Vy, the Flåm Railway portion is automatically included in your ticket.
This is often one of the easiest ways to secure Flåm Railway tickets during the busy summer months.
My tip
Book as early as possible if you are travelling in summer.
This route is extremely popular between May and September, and departures can sell out weeks in advance.
Bergen to Flåm By Bus (Most budget friendly option)
I’ve got a confession to make. I prefer travelling by bus over trains in Norway.
Travelling from Bergen to Flåm by bus is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to reach the fjords.
Honestly, I feel like buses in Norway are underrated. They are comfortable, reliable, and usually have things like WiFi, charging outlets and surprisingly spacious seats. I also find the WiFi on Norwegian buses much better than on the trains, so if you need to work while travelling, the bus is actually a solid option.
The journey takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic and conditions, and most departures are direct with no changes required.
Why choose the bus?
The bus is a great option if:
- you are travelling on a budget
- you want a direct route without changing trains
- you prefer simple logistics
- you want reliable WiFi and charging outlets
The route between Bergen and Flåm is scenic as well, passing mountains, valleys, waterfalls and more tunnels than you will probably be able to count. (Very Norwegian.)
Which bus company should you use?
For direct buses between Bergen and Flåm, I recommend booking with Nor-Way Bussekspress.
They usually operate a couple of daily departures, especially during the busy travel season, and the journey is straightforward and comfortable.
Vy also sells Bergen-Flåm tickets, but these often involve traveling by train from Bergen to Voss first, before transferring to a bus onwards to Flåm. So if you specifically want a direct bus journey, double check the route before booking.
My tip
If you are prone to motion sickness, sit further towards the front of the bus.
The roads between Bergen and Flåm are quite winding in places, especially once you get deeper into the fjord region.
Bergen to Flåm by Car (Best for Flexibility)
Driving from Bergen to Flåm is a fantastic option if you want flexibility and the ability to explore western Norway at your own pace.
The drive takes around 2,5-3 hours without stops, following the E16 road through mountains, valleys and fjord landscapes. Personally, I think this is one of the best road trips in Norway for first-time visitors.
Having a car also gives you the freedom to stop at viewpoints, small villages and attractions along the way, something you miss when traveling by train or bus.
Why rent a car?
Driving is a great option if:
- you want flexibility
- you are planning a Norway road trip
- you want to visit smaller villages around Flåm and Aurland
- you prefer travelling at your own pace
- you are travelling as a family or group
It also makes it much easier to explore places like the Stegastein Viewpoint, Undredal and the surrounding fjord region once you arrive.
The drive from Bergen to Flåm
The route itself is quite simple:
Bergen → Voss → Gudvangen → Flåm
Once you leave Bergen, you mostly follow the E16 all the way to Flåm.
The roads are well-maintained year-round, though weather conditions can change quickly in winter. Always stay up-to-date on the Norwegian road directory website.
Important driving tips for Norway
A few things visitors often don’t realise about driving in Norway:
- you cannot stop in tunnels
- you should never stop in the road for photos
- emergency lights are only for actual emergencies
- many roads are narrow and winding
- speed cameras are common
Also, western Norway occasionally experiences landslides, tunnel closures and road work that can affect travel times.
Before driving, I strongly recommend checking the Norwegian Public Roads Administration website for live road updates and closures.
My tip
If you are renting a car anyway, I highly recommend spending at least one night in Flåm or Aurland instead of doing the trip as a rushed day trip.
The fjord area is at its best in the early morning and evening, after most day-trippers have left.
Read first: My Essential Tips for Driving Around Norway
Bergen to Flåm by Boat (Most Unique Option)
If you have extra time, travelling from Bergen to Flåm by boat is an unforgettable experience.
Personally, I think this is one of the most beautiful ways to arrive in the fjords. Instead of driving through the landscape or passing it by train, you actually travel through the fjord system itself (like the Vikings did!).
The route takes you along the west coast of Norway before heading deep into the Sognefjord (the longest and deepest fjord in the country) all the way to Flåm.
Why choose the boat?
The express boat is a great option if:
- you are visiting Norway in summer
- you want a slower, scenic journey
- you love being on the water
- you want a unique travel experience
- you are not in a rush
It is definitely slower than the train or bus, but that is part of the appeal.
Bergen to Flåm express boat details
The express boat operates seasonally between Bergen and Flåm, usually from April through September.
Travel time is around 5.5 hours.
The route is operated by Norled, and tickets should be booked in advance during the summer months.
What to expect onboard
The boat is comfortable, with indoor seating, large windows and onboard facilities.
However, my biggest tip is this: Do not stay inside the whole journey.
Some of the best scenery is outside on deck, especially once you enter the narrower sections of the Sognefjord. Bring a warm layer, even in summer, as it can get windy out on the water.
My tip
If your schedule allows it, I actually love combining transport methods.
For example:
- train from Bergen to Flåm
- then boat back to Bergen
That way, you experience both the Flåm Railway and the fjords from the water without repeating the same route twice.
Bergen to Flåm Tours (Best Stress-free Option)
If you don’t want to organise trains, ferries and connections yourself, booking a tour from Bergen to Flåm can be a really good option.
This is especially popular amongst first-time visitors to Norway who want to see as much of the fjords as possible in a short amount of time.
Why book a tour?
A guided or pre-planned tour is a great option if:
- you don’t want to deal with logistics
- you are short on planning time
- you want transport and activities bundled together
- you are visiting Norway for the first time
- you want to do Bergen-Flåm as a day trip
Most tours combine several types of transport, such as:
- the Bergen Railway
- the Flåm Railway
- a fjord cruise
- buses through the fjord region
Norway in a Nutshell
The most famous option is Norway in a Nutshell.
This is not actually a guided tour, but rather a pre-packaged self-guided itinerary that combines trains, ferries and buses into one booking.
It is popular because:
- everything is organised for you
- the connections are simple
- you can book it all at once
- it includes many of Norway’s most scenic routes
That said, it is usually cheaper to book the exact same route yourself separately through Vy and Norway’s Best.
Personally, I often recommend booking independently if you are comfortable planning things yourself. But if convenience matters more to you than saving some money, Norway in a Nutshell is still a great experience.
Here’s how to book the Norway in a Nutshell tour on your own!
Private tours from Bergen
There are also private tours available from Bergen.
These are significantly more expensive, but they can be amazing if:
- you want a more personal experience
- you are celebrating something special
- you are travelling as a family or group
- you want flexibility throughout the day
Some private tours also include activities like:
- FjordSafari RIB tours
- kayaking
- hiking
- cider tastings
- visits to Stegastein Viewpoint
My tip
If you are travelling in summer, book tours as early as possible.
Flåm is one of the busiest destinations in Norway between May and September, and the most popular departures and activities often sell out weeks ahead.
Can You Visit Flåm as a Day Trip From Bergen?
Yes! Visiting Flåm as a day trip from Bergen is absolutely possible.
In fact, it is one of the most popular day trips in western Norway.
Because Bergen is relatively close to the fjord region, you can travel to Flåm and back in a single day by:
- train
- boat
- guided tour
- or a combination of transport options
Best options for a Flåm day trip
For most visitors, these are the best choices:
Option 1: Train both ways
The easiest option.
Take the morning train from Bergen to Flåm via Myrdal, spend a few hours exploring the fjord village, then return to Bergen in the evening.
This is best if:
- you mainly want to experience the Flåm Railway
- you prefer simple logistics
- you are travelling year-round
Option 2: Train one way + boat or bus the other
My personal favourite.
For example:
- train from Bergen to Flåm
- express boat (or bus, depending on timing) back to Bergen
This lets you experience both the Flåm Railway and the fjords from the water in one trip.
However, this option only works during the summer boat season.
Option 3: Norway in a Nutshell
The most famous option.
This combines trains, fjord cruises and buses into one organised itinerary, making it ideal if you want to see a lot in a single day without planning everything yourself.
I’ve covered how to book Norway in a Nutshell (“NIN”) on your own here.
Is a day trip enough?
Honestly? Yes and no.
You can absolutely see Flåm in one day, and many people do.
But personally, I think the fjord region is best enjoyed slowly.
If your schedule allows it, I highly recommend staying at least one night in Flåm or nearby Aurland (where I grew up!). The area becomes much quieter in the evenings once the day-trippers and cruise passengers leave, and that is when the fjords feel truly magical.
Wondering where to stay? Check out my hotel guide to the area here!
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about travelling to Flåm from Bergen. Hopefully your question is answered (if you haven’t already found the answer above).
For most travelers, the best way to travel from Bergen to Flåm is by train via Myrdal. This route includes the famous Flåm Railway and is one of the most scenic journeys in Norway.
105 miles / 170 kilometers
Yes! When you book Bergen-Flåm directly through Vy, the Flåm Railway section between Myrdal and Flåm is automatically included in your ticket.
Travel times vary depending on how you travel.
Train: around 3 hours
Bus: around 3 hours
Car: 2.5-3 hours
Express boat: around 5,5 hours
Flåm is accessible by train, bus, boat and car.
Yes. Flåm is one of the most popular day trips from Bergen, especially by train or as part of a Norway in a Nutshell itinerary. However, if you have time, I recommend staying overnight in Flåm or Aurland.
There are several fjords within short distance from Bergen. The closest is the Hardangerfjord, just a 1,5 hour drive or bus ride away. Flåm and the Aurlandsfjord can be reached by train, bus, boat and car.
For many first-time visitors, yes. It is a convenient way to experience the fjords without organising all transport yourself. However, it is usually cheaper to book the same route independently.
It depends on what you prioritise. The train is faster and includes the Flåm Railway. The boat is slower, but gives you a more immersive fjord experience. Personally, I recommend the train for first-time visitors.
Yes. Train, bus and car travel between Bergen and Flåm operate year-round, though weather conditions can occasionally affect travel in winter. The express boat is seasonal and normally only operates between April and September.
No. Flåm itself is very small and walkable. However, having a car gives you much more flexibility to explore nearby places like Aurland, Stegastein viewpoint and Undredal.
The bus is usually the cheapest option, especially if you book in advance.
Final Thoughts on Traveling From Bergen to Flåm
No matter how you choose to travel, the journey from Bergen to Flåm is one of the highlights of visiting western Norway.
For most first-time visitors, I still think the train is the best overall option. It is scenic, easy, comfortable, and includes the famous Flåm Railway along the way.
However, I also think:
- the bus is great for budget travelers,
- the boat is perfect if you want to experience the fjords from the water,
- and renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore the region properly.
If your schedule allows it, I highly recommend spending at least one night in Flåm or nearby Aurland instead of rushing through on a day trip. The fjords are at their best early in the morning and late in the evening, once the crowds disappear.
Planning the rest of your Norway trip? These guides might help next:
- My complete Bergen travel guide
- The best things to do in Flåm
- Where to stay in Flåm
- The best fjord cruises from Bergen
- My Norway itinerary guide
- My Favorite Restaurants in Bergen
Welcome to the fjords!
18 comments
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[…] can also experience the Flamsbana Railway ride by taking the train from Bergen to Flam. The Bergen train goes to the mountain station of Myrdal (also a very scenic ride), where you get […]
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Great info! Question about a place to stay between Flam and Bergen… We are taking the high speed ferry but would like spend an overnight on the way, and catch the same ferry the next day. Any recommendations? An obvious choice is Balestrand. Any others? Thank you!
Hi Rob! I personally think Balestrand is the best place to stay 🙂 Another alternative is Høyanger, but Balestrand is definitely more quaint (and beautiful, imo). The Kviknes Hotel (https://www.booking.com/hotel/no/kviknes.en.html?aid=859729) there is a beautiful, historic hotel, and Balestrand is a nice, quiet village compared to Flåm (which is busier in the summer).
Hello. Thanks for this detailed explanation of routes. A couple of questions – We are arriving to Bergen Airport after a very long overnight flight and had planned to travel from the airport to the Bergen train station and take the hour train to Voss to rest for the night before traveling to Gundvagen the next day and then Flam the following. If we instead travel from Bergen airport to Voss via a private transfer instead of the train, is it less scenic? Does the train access a more scenic route than the road? Also, is the train up from Flam as scenic as it would be going down? Are we missing anything by going clockwise through this circuit versus counterclockwise? Thanks for any input.
The train and drive from Bergen to Voss follow pretty much the same route. In lots of places you can see the train tracks from the road. The only exception I would say is a few tunnels here and there 🙂 So you wouldn’t be missing anything.
The Flåm Railway is a train that goes from Flåm to Myrdal and back to Flåm – following the same tracks both ways. Therefore, the scenery is exactly the same no matter the direction you travel 🙂
Hi Lisa, thank you for such a comprehensive explanation.
I’m planning about 5 days in Bergen and Flam. I understand from another blog you wrote that there are no car rentals in Flam. If I plan to stay in Flam or one of the other villages around, what would be the best mode of transport within the area? Should I consider driving from Bergen to Flam so I have the car at my disposal in this area to explore? Is that the best option? I don’t want to miss out on a scenic route 🙁
It’s quite difficult to balance the cost and convenience hence thought of asking you.
Hello! In this post I have shared how to get around/between the villages in the area: https://flamtravelguide.com/car-rental-in-flam/
In my opinion, there isn’t a “best” mode of transport within the area, because both bus, boat and taxi work just fine. Which is “better” depends entirely on whether they fit your schedule or not. If you want to explore places outside of the villages you may need to bring a rental car, but if you are planning on joining activities/excursions in the villages, you won’t need one.
Thank you. Could you recommend a private transfer company/taxi with a van that could transfer 5 of us with luggage from the Bergen airport to Voss? I see lots of companies when I search, but it’s hard to know which are reliable and recommended. Appreciate all of your detailed blogs!
Excellent information. Thank you. We are in Bergen on 8/29 from 7am-5pm on the Norwegian Prima. We are in Aalesund also 7-5pm on 8/31. We would need to be back at the ship by 4. We would like to see Flam, as well as a fjord cruise. What would be your recommendation to get to do both given the 2 days?
We are also in Geiringer on 8/30 from 8am-10pm. We have not booked a tour yet, but I am looking at Mt. Dalsnibba and Eagle Rd. Please help me with your expertise. Thank you for your assistance.
It won’t be possible for you to see Flåm from Ålesund, as it is way too far, but perhaps your cruise operator offers a day trip/excursion from Bergen. However, since Flåm is a 3-hour drive from Bergen, I don’t think it will be possible to do it outside of an excursion with such limited time, I’m afraid. Both Dalsnibba and the Eagle Road are cool! If it is between those two, I personally think the Eagle Road viewpoint is cooler 🙂
This is very helpful, thank you! I didnt realize that the train from Bergen includes the Flam Train. I am looking at a tour with Norway’s best that includes Flam Train, zip line and then a bike ride. What I dont understand is how they are offering the Flam train if I have already taken it. It says it goes their train goes from Flam to Vatnahalsen. How does this work? It seems like a dumb question as I am typing but I dont want to ride the train to the same location twice. Thank you for sorting this out
There is only one train between Flåm and Myrdal (and Vatnahalsen, as this is the stop before Myrdal): the Flåm Railway. So you are correct in that they are offering you the same train back up the valley to take the zipline. It is the only way to get there 🙂
Hi Lisa! Thank you so much for writing such a helpful blog! I do have a question about travelling from Bergen to Flåm in the Winter Season. I would like to take the scenic cruise through Sognefjord but it seems like they are unavailable in the Winter. Could you please suggest the best option for me?
That’s correct, the express boat from Bergen to Flåm does not run in the winter, so you can go to Flåm or Gudvangen by bus or train instead and then go on the Nærøyfjord cruise to see the best part of the fjord by boat 🙂