This Rick Steves-Recommended Train Ride Is A 'Super-Scenic' Scandinavian Journey

Traveling through Europe by train has a certain romanticism to it. Couples kissing goodbye on the platform before departure time, families running to embrace each other after reuniting, or solo travelers looking to experience beauty via rail, one scenic station at a time. When travel legend Rick Steves recommends a place to go, or an experience to be had, it's got to be worth seeing. This "super-scenic" train in Norway is no different, as it boasts views that are sure to stun during an epic Scandinavian adventure.

There are many mistakes that people make while traveling by train, such as assuming that just booking on a whim can guarantee you a seat. Steves fondly speaks about his favorite Norwegian tour, called "Norway in a Nutshell," which coordinates bus, train, and ferry rides. A journey on the Flåmsbana train along the Flåm Railway is a standout for Steves. As Steves wrote in a blog post, "This is simply the most spectacular train ride in northern Europe." The rail line was started in 1923 and was completed in 1940. It is noted as one of Norway's greatest feats of engineering. 

Five hours from departure in Oslo, you'll reach the mountain train stop of Myrdal, which sits at 2,844 feet above sea level, and board the green Flåmsbana train that will slowly make its way to the tiny village of Flåm. Myrdal station can alternatively be reached from Bergen, Norway's second-largest city, along the Bergensbanen, and takes approximately two hours to arrive at the starting point for the Flåm-bound train. The village is nestled within the majestic Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, which rises out of the water and demands your attention as soon as you exit the train.

During my solo trip through Norway more than a decade ago, I had the opportunity to book a journey to Flåm and ride the famous Flåmsbana train. This region of Norway boasts some of the nation's most beautiful landscapes, and while I thought the first leg of the train ride was breathtaking, the one-hour ride from Myrdal to Flåm had me glued to the window nonstop.

The train moves slowly at 25 miles per hour through ever-changing landscapes as its wheels squeak and creak. One minute you're traveling through forested areas, then you'll disappear into one of 20 tunnels strategically carved by hand through the mountainous terrain. As the train emerges from the tunnel, you'll be in awe of the scenery greeting you on the other side. Quaint villages dot vast green valleys, waterfalls flow from high above, and tourists open the panoramic windows to get the best photo. Tickets for the Flåmsbana train can be purchased directly on the official website. Booking in advance is recommended. 

As you make your way roughly 14 miles from Myrdal station towards Flåm, it's easy to understand why Lonely Planet named this Flåmsbana route as the world's best train journey back in 2014, and National Geographic included it on its list of Top 10 European Train Trips. Those interested in Norse mythology are in for a treat. The train stops at Kjosfossen, a waterfall that cascades from 738 feet. Here, you'll witness music, folk dancing, and a portrayal of Huldra, a mythical forest spirit wearing a red dress, who attempts to lure and seduce men into the woods.

Once you disembark the train at the village of Flåm, you'll quickly realize just how small it is, nestled beside the massive, towering fjord. During my visit, I found that the most beautiful angles of the fjords could be seen by hitting the paved walking trail along the Sognefjord. The trail goes for miles and has some of the most picturesque views I've ever seen. Little red cabins sit on the water's edge as colorful boats bob nearby, making for some great photo opportunities.

If you're hungry, make a stop at the Flåm Marina Hotel and Restaurant. Not only does it have gorgeous views from the hotel rooms, but the salmon lunch I enjoyed was fresh and delicious. In the mood for a sweet treat? Head to Flåm Bakeri for a selection of cinnamon buns, cakes, and other delectable pastries. Beer lovers will enjoy the unique Norse-inspired design of the microbrewery Ægir BrewPub. Grab a flight, then stop and admire the view from the Flåm beach.

Those looking to learn more about the Flåmsbana and the construction behind it can visit the Flåm Railway Museum (with free admission) before embarking on a dramatic Fjord Safari Tour on a speedboat. Looking for an adrenaline rush? Try the Flåm zipline that starts at the Vatnahalsen station (just before Myrdal) and whisks thrill seekers 1,000 feet down to Kårdalstølen in the Flåmsdalen valley at speeds reaching 62 miles per hour. Flåm may be small, but it offers a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy, no matter what you're in the mood for.