Train holiday Scandinavia: a complete guide to a special journey

A train holiday through Scandinavia is the most pleasant and immersive way to experience the essence of the North; it is a journey where the route itself is just as important as the destination. The combination of excellently organised public transport, breathtaking landscapes passing by your window and the smooth transition between vibrant cities and vast nature makes travelling by rail here a pure experience. Prepare for an adventure that will change your view of travel forever.

Exploring Scandinavia by train is a conscious choice for a different kind of holiday. It is one of the most special ways to discover a region. You have the freedom to map out your own route while enjoying a relaxed travel pace. This guide is your starting point for planning that dream trip.

Why Scandinavia is the ideal train destination

Travelling by train through Denmark, Norway and Sweden (and Finland) is more than just getting from A to B. It is an integral part of your holiday experience. The trains are modern, spacious and run on time. As you relax in your seat, you see the landscape change from rolling hills and lush forests to dramatic fjords and rugged mountain ranges. It is a sustainable way of travelling that reduces your ecological footprint, an important aspect for many environmentally conscious travellers. On top of that, the train often takes you straight into the heart of the cities, so you can start exploring immediately without the hassle of airport transfers.

The long-distance connections: your route through the north

The rail network in Scandinavia is extensive and efficient, which means the main cities are very well connected. From Copenhagen you can easily travel by high-speed train to Stockholm or Gothenburg. From Stockholm you can continue to Oslo, or head north towards the Arctic Circle. Modern intercity trains with good facilities, such as Wi-Fi, restaurant cars and spacious seating, serve these main routes. Planning a journey along the classic triangle Copenhagen–Stockholm–Oslo is a perfect introduction to the region.

Travelling under the stars: discover the convenience of night trains

One of the most efficient and adventurous ways to cover large distances in Scandinavia is by night train. These trains function as moving hotels, allowing you to save travel time and cut the cost of an overnight stay. The most famous route is the night train from Stockholm to Narvik in Norway, which takes you straight through Swedish Lapland. You board in the evening and wake up to views of a completely new, Arctic landscape. You can choose from different comfort levels, from a simple couchette to a private sleeping compartment with its own washbasin. It is a unique experience to fall asleep to the rhythmic sound of the train and wake up in the middle of the wilderness.

Breathtaking scenery: train routes through fjord and nature regions

Scandinavia is home to some of the most spectacular train routes in the world. These journeys are not just a means of transport, but attractions in their own right.

The Bergensbanen and Flåmsbana (Norway)

The train journey from Oslo to Bergen, the Bergensbanen, is known as one of the most beautiful in the world. The route crosses the Hardangervidda plateau, the highest mountain plateau in Europe, and offers phenomenal views. A highlight is the branch line from Myrdal to Flåm: the Flåmsbana. This short, steep ride descends to the Aurlandsfjord and treats you to a succession of waterfalls, deep ravines and majestic mountains.

The Inlandsbanan (Sweden)

For those who want to discover the unspoilt interior of Sweden, the Inlandsbanan is an excellent option. This railway line runs from Kristinehamn in the south to Gällivare in the north and takes you through endless forests, past shimmering lakes and through the land of the Sami. The train stops several times at small, culturally interesting places, giving you the chance to really soak up the local atmosphere.

The charm of every season: when should you travel to Scandinavia?

Each season has its own unique appeal for a train holiday.

• Summer (June–August): Enjoy long days, the midnight sun in the north and lush green landscapes. It is the high season, so trains are busier and it is advisable to book in advance.
• Autumn (September–October): Experience stunning autumn colours, especially in the forested areas of Sweden and Finland. The crowds thin out and the atmosphere becomes calmer and more intimate.
• Winter (November–March): A special time for a train journey. The landscapes are covered with a thick blanket of snow, and in the north you have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights. The trains are a warm and pleasant way to travel through this winter wonderland.
• Spring (April–May): See nature awaken. Waterfalls are at their most powerful due to meltwater and the first flowers appear, while there is still snow on the mountain tops.

Choosing your ideal trip length: from short break to extended tour

The flexibility of the rail network makes it possible to plan a journey that perfectly matches your wishes.

• 1 week: Focus on the urban triangle. Start in Copenhagen, travel to Stockholm and finish in Oslo. This gives you a good impression of the differences between the capitals.
• 2 weeks: Combine the cities with a spectacular nature route. For example, travel from Oslo to Bergen via the Bergensbanen and take time to explore the fjord region.
• 3 weeks or longer: Embark on an extended tour. Travel from the south all the way to the Arctic Circle by night train, explore Norwegian and Swedish Lapland and return via Finland or the Norwegian coast.

Practical preparation: tickets, Interrail and luggage

Good preparation is essential. For individual legs you can best book tickets online a few months in advance with the national railway companies (such as SJ in Sweden and Vy in Norway) to get the best prices. If you plan to travel a lot, an Interrail Pass can be an economical and flexible option. Bear in mind that for many high-speed trains and night trains a seat reservation is compulsory and costs extra, even with an Interrail Pass. As for luggage: travel light. Although there is more space on trains than on a plane, it is much more pleasant to travel with a handy suitcase or backpack that you can easily stow away.

Must-see destinations along the tracks

Besides the routes themselves, the destinations are of course the real highlights. A few must-sees that are easily reached by train:

• Copenhagen, Denmark: A city of design, bicycles and “hygge” (cosy contentment). The central station is a perfect starting point for your journey.
• Stockholm, Sweden: Built on fourteen islands, this is a beautiful city with a historic old town (Gamla Stan) and modern districts.
• Oslo, Norway: Surrounded by forests and the Oslofjord, this city combines modern architecture with a rich Viking history.
• Bergen, Norway: The gateway to the fjords, famous for its colourful wooden houses along the Bryggen wharf.
• Kiruna, Sweden: Above the Arctic Circle, an ideal base for experiencing Sami culture, the Northern Lights and the famous Icehotel.

Comfortable and conscious travel: extra tips for on the way

To make your journey even more enjoyable: take a thermos flask for coffee or tea, and some snacks for on the way. Although most trains have a restaurant car, it is handy to have something within reach. Download maps, series or podcasts, because although there is often Wi-Fi, the connection can drop out in remote areas. Embrace the pace of the train. Use the travel time to read, listen to music or simply enjoy the view. It is the perfect way to slow down.

Your train adventure starts here

A train holiday through Scandinavia is a special experience that lets you discover the region in a unique, comfortable and conscious way. It is a journey that revolves around the beauty of the landscape, the charm of the cities and the calm of the journey itself. With the right planning and an open mind, you are in for an adventure that will stay with you for a long time. Pack your bags, book that ticket and let the rails guide you through the magnificent North.