Overview
The Nærøyfjord is one of the narrowest fjords in Europe, with walls rising to 1,700 m and waterfalls plunging into the water. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the Geirangerfjord, and a branch of the larger Sognefjord, the longest fjord in Norway.
The village of Flåm, at the end of the Aurlandsfjord, is the starting point for the Flåm Railway, a 20 km line that climbs 866 m to Myrdal in about an hour, past waterfalls and steep valleys. Fjord cruises, kayaking and hiking trails are available, and the Stegastein viewpoint, a curved platform over the fjord near Aurland, gives a wide view.
Highlights
- The Flåm Railway and the Kjosfossen waterfall stop
- A cruise or kayak trip on the Nærøyfjord
- The Stegastein viewpoint
- Hikes from Flåm and Aurland
Best time to visit
May to September is the main season. June to August has long days and the best weather. Waterfalls are strongest in late spring. Winter brings snow and fewer services, though the railway runs year-round.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Good
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Good
- OctOctober: Not ideal
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Bergen (BGO), then take a train to Voss and Myrdal and the Flåm Railway, about 3 to 4 hours, or the bus. Oslo to Myrdal by train is about 5 hours. Fjord cruises depart from Flåm and Gudvangen.
What to expect
Easy. The railway and cruises make the area accessible, and walks range from easy to demanding. Rain is frequent, so pack waterproofs.
Practical tips
- Book the Flåm Railway and cruise tickets early in summer.
- Take rain gear and a warm layer, even in July.
- Consider the Norway in a Nutshell route for a one-day tour.
- Allow time at Kjosfossen for the waterfall viewpoint.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Flåm Railway?
About 20 km, taking around an hour each way.
What is the Nærøyfjord?
A very narrow fjord with high cliffs, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Can I do it as a day trip from Bergen?
Yes, using the Norway in a Nutshell tour or by train and boat.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Markus Trienke (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
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