Train Journeys in Northern Europe
Finland & Sweden Are Connected by Rail Again 🚆🇫🇮🇸🇪
A new cross-border passenger rail service has officially launched, reconnecting northern Finland and Sweden by train.
On 10 August 2026, passenger trains returned between Finland and Sweden after a 38-year break, with a new service linking Oulu, Tornio and Haparanda.
The new VR service operates twice daily in each direction, with 28 services running each week. Trains stop at Oulu, Kemi, Tornio-Itäinen, Tornio and Haparanda on the Swedish side of the border.
Why is this exciting for travellers?
This isn’t simply a new way of crossing the Finnish-Swedish border — it opens up some interesting possibilities for rail adventures through northern Scandinavia.
From Oulu, travellers can now reach Haparanda by train and, with onward connections, continue into northern Sweden. VR has highlighted the potential for easier journeys between Oulu and Luleå, while future improvements to connections at Haparanda are planned.
It also makes it easier to think about combining Finland and Sweden in one rail itinerary, rather than treating them as completely separate destinations.
And for anyone who loves scenic train journeys, northern landscapes and travelling beyond the obvious routes, this is definitely a connection worth knowing about.
🚆 Thinking about a Finland or Scandinavia rail adventure?
I can help you build a tailor-made itinerary combining Helsinki, Oulu, Lapland, Haparanda, northern Sweden and beyond — including rail journeys and other experiences along the way.
Travel beyond the ordinary with Discover the Frog. 🐸
Service information correct at August 2026. Cross-border journeys require passengers to carry the appropriate travel documents and comply with border requirements.
VR – official Haparanda route information
