Quick Answer
The best overall way to travel from Bergen Airport (Flesland) to Flåm is a combination of the Flybussen (airport bus) to Bergen Station and the scenic "Norway in a Nutshell" railway journey. This takes approximately 5.5 to 6.5 hours and costs between NOK 900 - 1,400. The fastest option is a private taxi/transfer (approx. 2.5-3 hours, NOK 4,000-6,000), while the cheapest option is a combination of public bus and ferry (approx. 6-7 hours, from NOK 500).
By Train: The Scenic "Norway in a Nutshell" Route
This is the most famous and picturesque route to Flåm, often booked as the "Norway in a Nutshell" tour. It involves multiple legs but offers world-class scenery.
Step-by-Step Journey
- Bergen Airport (Flesland) to Bergen Station: Take the Flybussen (Airport Express Bus) (20-30 min, NOK 120) or the local Skyss bus line (30-40 min, NOK 40-60).
- Bergen to Voss by Train: Take a Vy train from Bergen Station to Voss. (Approx. 1h 20min, NOK 200-300). Frequent departures.
- Voss to Gudvangen by Bus: Connect via a scheduled bus (approx. 1 hour, NOK 100-150). This bus travels through stunning mountain passes.
- Gudvangen to Flåm by Ferry: Board a scenic fjord ferry through the Nærøyfjord (a UNESCO World Heritage site). (Approx. 2 hours, NOK 350-450).
- Alternative: Flåm Railway from Myrdal: Instead of the bus/ferry combo from Voss, you can take a train from Bergen to Myrdal, then the famous Flåm Railway (Flåmsbana) down to Flåm. This is often packaged as the classic "Norway in a Nutshell" route.
Booking & Tickets: Package vs. DIY
| Option | Pros | Cons | Approx. Cost (per adult) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official "Norway in a Nutshell" Package | Single ticket for all legs, guaranteed connections, well-organized, includes maps. | More expensive than DIY, less schedule flexibility. | NOK 1,400 - 1,800 (seasonal) |
| DIY Booking (Separate Tickets) | Cheaper, more flexibility to stop (e.g., in Voss), can use rail passes. | Responsibility for connections, multiple bookings required. | NOK 900 - 1,300 |
Pro Tip: Check the schedule carefully if booking DIY, especially for the last ferry from Gudvangen to Flåm. Connections in winter can be tighter.
By Bus & Public Transport: The Budget-Friendly Choice
Direct buses offer a simpler, often cheaper point-to-point journey compared to the multi-leg train/ferry route.
Direct Bus from Bergen Bus Station to Flåm
Operated by Nor-Way or Vy Buss.
- Journey: Bergen Bus Station â FlÃ¥m.
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
- Cost: NOK 300 - 500, booked in advance.
- Frequency: 2-4 departures daily.
How to get from Bergen Airport to Bergen Bus Station: Take the Flybussen or Skyss bus (as mentioned in the train section) to the city center. The bus station (Bergen Storsenter) is adjacent to the railway station.
Combined Public Bus & Ferry (Cheapest Overall)
For the absolute lowest cost, use local Skyss buses.
- Airport to Bergen: Skyss bus to Bergen bus station.
- Bergen to Voss: Vy bus (approx. 1.5 hrs, NOK 200).
- Voss to Gudvangen: Skyss bus 950 (approx. 1 hr, NOK 60).
- Gudvangen to Flåm: Local ferry (approx. 2 hrs, NOK 350).
Total DIY Cost: From ~NOK 500. Total Time: 6-7 hours. This requires careful planning using the Entur journey planner.
Bus Travel Tips
- Book in Advance: Especially in summer (June-August) for direct buses.
- Luggage: Standard luggage allowance is one large suitcase and one carry-on. Confirm with the operator if you have excess.
- Comfort: Buses are modern and have Wi-Fi and toilets.
By Taxi & Private Transfer: For Convenience & Groups
This is the most convenient but also the most expensive option, suitable for groups, those with heavy luggage, or travelers arriving late at night.
Taxi from the Airport Ranks
- Journey: Direct from airport arrivals to your Flåm hotel.
- Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather.
- Cost: NOK 4,000 - 6,000+ (fixed price should be agreed upon before departure). Metered fares for this distance are extremely high.
- Operation: 24/7 from the official taxi rank outside arrivals.
Pre-Booked Private Transfer
More reliable than hailing a taxi. Companies like NorgesTaxi or Bergen Taxi offer pre-booked cars/vans.
- Pros: Driver meets you with a name sign, fixed price, choice of vehicle (sedan, minivan for groups).
- Cost: Similar to taxi rank prices, sometimes slightly better for pre-booking.
When is a Taxi the Right Choice?
- Arriving on a late flight after public transport has stopped.
- Traveling in a group of 4 or more (can be cost-effective per person).
- Travelers with significant mobility issues or excessive luggage.
- If your time is extremely limited and you value door-to-door convenience above all else.
Warning: Always confirm the total price to Flåm before getting in the vehicle.
By Ferry & Boat Tours: A Scenic Alternative
While there is no direct passenger ferry from Bergen to Flåm, combining express boats and local ferries is a unique and beautiful journey focused on the fjords.
The Coastal Route via Express Boat
- Bergen to Norheimsund: Take the Skyss express boat from Bergen to Norheimsund (approx. 1.5-2 hrs, NOK 200).
- Norheimsund to Flåm: This leg requires a combination of local buses/taxis, as there is no direct ferry. It's complex and time-consuming.
Verdict: This route is more of a scenic day trip from Bergen rather than a practical transfer to Flåm. It's best suited for those with unlimited time wanting a maritime adventure.
Fjord Sightseeing Tours from Bergen
Companies like Rødne Fjord Cruise or Visit Bergen offer long day tours from Bergen that include bus to Gudvangen and a ferry through the Nærøyfjord to Flåm, then a return by train/bus. These are round-trip tours, not one-way transfers.
Ticket & Cost Comparison: Which is Best for You?
| Transport Method | Total Travel Time* | Approx. Cost (One-Way, Adult) | Number of Changes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train & "Norway in a Nutshell" (Package) | 5.5 - 6.5 hrs | NOK 1,400 - 1,800 | 3-4 | First-time visitors, scenic experience, hassle-free planning |
| Direct Bus | ~3.5 hrs (incl. airport bus) | NOK 400 - 600 | 1 | Budget travelers, simplicity, point-to-point |
| Public Bus & Ferry (DIY) | 6 - 7 hrs | NOK 500 - 700 (Cheapest) | 3-4 | Ultra-budget travelers, flexible schedules |
| Private Taxi/Transfer | 2.5 - 3 hrs (Fastest) | NOK 4,000 - 6,000+ | 0 | Groups, late arrivals, luxury/convenience |
*Time includes transfer from Bergen Airport to the city center where applicable.
Decision Helper: Choose the Norway in a Nutshell for the iconic experience. Choose the direct bus for the best value balance. Choose the DIY public transport to save the most money. Choose a taxi only for specific needs like groups or late-night arrivals.
Traveler Tips & Experience for a Smooth Journey
Luggage Strategy
- Pack Light for Transfers: If taking the train/ferry/bus combo, you will need to handle your own luggage on and off vehicles. A backpack or wheeled suitcase you can easily manage is ideal.
- Luggage Storage in Bergen: If you have a long layover, use the lockers at Bergen Station (NOK 50-100/day) to explore the city baggage-free.
Booking & Timing Advice
- Book "Norway in a Nutshell" Early: Especially for summer travel. Popular departure times sell out.
- Allow Buffer Time: Always allow at least 60-90 minutes between your flight landing and your first booked departure from Bergen city. Flight delays and immigration can happen.
- Winter Travel (Nov-Mar): Schedules are reduced. Ferry legs may be replaced by buses. Check Visit Flåm for seasonal updates. Road conditions can affect bus/taxi travel.
On the Ground in Flåm
- Arrival Point: Most buses and all ferries arrive at the Flåm harbor/central area, within easy walking distance of most hotels and the Flåm Railway station.
- Next Destination: Flåm is a gateway. From here, many travelers continue by ferry to Gudvangen or by train to Oslo.
FAQs: Travel from Bergen Airport to Flåm
Is there a direct train from Bergen Airport to Flåm?
No. There is no direct train from Bergen Airport (or even Bergen city) all the way to Flåm. The journey requires a combination of train, bus, and/or ferry. The famous Flåm Railway runs from Myrdal station down to Flåm, but you must first get to Myrdal by train from Bergen.
What is the cheapest way to get from Bergen Airport to Flåm?
The cheapest way is to use local public transport: Skyss bus from the airport to Bergen, then Vy bus to Voss, Skyss bus to Gudvangen, and finally the local ferry to Flåm. This can cost from NOK 500 one-way but requires careful planning and multiple changes.
How long does the transfer take?
The total door-to-door time ranges from 2.5 hours (by taxi) to over 7 hours (by the cheapest public transport combo). The popular "Norway in a Nutshell" scenic route takes between 5.5 and 6.5 hours.
Should I book the "Norway in a Nutshell" tour or buy tickets separately?
For first-timers or those wanting guaranteed connections: Book the official package. For experienced travelers on a budget or wanting flexibility: Book separately via Vy (trains/buses) and Norway's Best (ferries). DIY can save NOK 300-500 per person.
What if my flight arrives late at night?
If you arrive after ~10:30 PM, public transport options to Flåm will have ended for the day. Your only realistic options are to: 1) Stay overnight in Bergen (hotels near the airport or city), or 2) Take a very expensive taxi directly to Flåm (bookable in advance).
Is the journey to Flåm suitable for families with young children?
Yes, but choose your route wisely. The direct bus is simplest with kids and luggage. The "Norway in a Nutshell" route is exciting but involves several changes, which can be tiring. Pack snacks and entertainment for the longer journeys.
Can I use a Eurail or Interrail Pass for this journey?
Partially. Eurail/Interrail passes cover the Vy train from Bergen to Voss or Myrdal. They do not cover the airport bus, the local buses, the Flåm Railway (50% discount only), or the Gudvangen-Flåm ferry. You will need to pay supplements for those legs.
Which is better: bus or train to Flåm?
It depends on your priority. Bus: Better for directness, lower cost, and simplicity. Train/Scenic Route: Better for iconic scenery (fjords, mountains) and the classic Norwegian tourist experience. The bus route is also scenic but mostly inland.