Words courtesy of Railbookers.
From the breathtaking fjords and sweeping mountain passes of Norway, to the lively capital cities of Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm, Scandinavia by train is a relaxing, reliable and incredibly beautiful way to travel. Scenic rail lines transport visitors to otherworldly landscapes at breathtaking heights, while high-speed, intercity trains move travellers from city centre to city centre quickly and comfortably.
The following Scandinavian rail holidays offer something for every type of traveller, from history buffs and urban explorers to lovers of epic natural wonders. Read on and learn just how memorable it can be to experience this magical region by train!
1. Flåm Railway
Discover the best of Norway and its spectacular fjords on the ultimate rail vacation. This journey begins in the capital of Oslo, a beautiful harborside city with a wide choice of museums, iconic architecture and world-class dining. From there it's all aboard the famous Flåm Railway, voted the most scenic rail journey in the world and one of the steepest normal track railway lines dropping 2,824 feet in just under an hour. Spend two nights in beautiful Flåm seeing the sights, eating like a Viking and touring by safari boat through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Aurlandsfjord. From Flåm, take a ferry through dramatic fjords to colourful Bergen for two days of sightseeing and scenery, all before returning to Oslo on the famous Bergen rail line for a final night in the capital city.
2. Grand Scandinavian Tour
Consider this the perfect itinerary for first-time visitors to Scandinavia. Start with two days of discovering famously laid-back and friendly Copenhagen. Then take the scenic rail journey to Gothenburg, travelling across the marvellous Øresund bridge. Here you'll discover Scandinavian cuisine at its finest, a real culinary hub with a reputation for innovative cuisine using local produce. Then travel by train to marvel at the Norwegian Fjords in Oslo all before you make your way by train for two additional nights in Sweden's vibrant capital of Stockholm. Talk about a wonderful whirlwind adventure!
3. Twin-City Culture Break
Explore the sights and sounds of two European favourites on this two-city getaway by train! Start with an overnight stay in the beautiful Rhine-side city of Cologne before catching the train to Copenhagen, the fairy-tale Danish capital where cool contemporary melds with historic charm! Cologne plays host to spectacular views, especially from the river banks or from the top of its world-famous Cathedral. From Cologne, enjoy a scenic journey by train as you speed through Germany to Hamburg and board one of the world's last ‘train ferries' from Puttgarden to Rodby as you enter Denmark. Continue through wonderful Scandinavian vistas as you approach Copenhagen. Spend three days discovering this wonderful city brimming with youthful energy, a burgeoning restaurant scene and rows of chic boutiques.
4. Hamburg & Stockholm
Stockholm delights with its waterside vistas, historic old town, famous bridges and unique culture. Make the journey part of your holiday when you take the scenic route and travel by train. You’ll first spend two nights exploring the wonders of Hamburg, then take one of Europe’s last ‘boat trains’ and enjoy views of Germany, Denmark and Sweden as you sit back and relax along the way! Once in Stockholm, stroll down the pretty, cobbled streets and explore the 13th-century Storkyrkan Cathedral, the Royal Palace or any of the fascinating museums. If the weather is fine, a boat trip out to the archipelago is a must-do!
Ready to book a raily-great Scandinavian adventure of your own? Get in touch with your local
Travellers Choice agent today!