My daughter and I will be traveling to Norway in August for 12 days, beginning in Oslo and terminating in Bergen. We plan to take the train to Bergen but would like to ride on the Flam section. Should we stay in Flam for two nights, or is there another picturesque fjord village that offers hiking and cruising that would not be too deserted? We are trying to avoid cruise ship congestion but still need people around. We plan to rent a car while we are in Bergen to explore more of the southern fjord regions. Thank you for any suggestions you may offer, as this is our first time to Europe and Norway!
Posted by
Snohomish, WA
3029 posts
My daughter and I were in these areas last August. I had been before, but 10 years ago, and it was her first trip to Norway. Flam was absolutely mobbed the day we were there. There was a massive cruise ship in port, and one a bit further out, so you couldn't even see the fjord. Another option might be Stavanger. It too had a cruise ship on one day, but it did not impede on any views. We did a kayak trip from there in Lysefjord, and you can do excursions to hike Pulpit Rock etc. Check out https://florogfjare.no as well if you like flowers at all. This was a highlight for us and we were surprised at just how much we loved it! The dinner was very good as well. Another day we did a rib boat tour in Lysefjord which was fun, but the kayaking was more to our liking. We had an apartment there for 3 nights and were very happy with our decision for both the apt and for the town.
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
3048 posts
I have stayed overnight in Flam half way through the Norway in a Nutshell route from Bergen to Oslo. It was great once the cruise ships left - so peaceful and beautiful (even in the rain, in May). Without a car, it might be more challenging to get around, though. It is high season and you may be out of luck accommodation wise, so check your dates to see if you could find a spot, otherwise you might have to locate another town.
Posted by
Schwerin
3712 posts
Just avoid days with cruise ship in Flåm port.
Posted by
Citizen of the World
2638 posts
Aurlandsvangen which is about 5 miles from Flam, is another alternative.