5 Ways to Experience the Best of Scandinavia by Rail

From the breathtaking fjords of Norway, through impressive, sweeping mountain passes and between the lively capital cities of Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm, Scandinavia by train is at once relaxing, reliable, and incredibly beautiful. Scenic rail lines, like the Flam Railway in Norway, 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 five Scandinavian rail vacations offer something for every type of traveller, from history buffs and urban explorers to lovers of epic natural wonders. Learn just how memorable it can be to experience this magical region by train!

Grand Norway in a Nutshell

Discover the best of Norway and the spectacular Norwegian fjords on this seven-night ultimate rail vacation!

Your journey begins in the Norwegian capital of Oslo, where you’ll experience all the top attractions of the beautiful harborside city. Visit one of the city's wide choice of museums, or head to the city centre for world-class shopping and dining, jazz and blues clubs, and bars and cafes offering the perfect vantage point for relaxing and people-watching.

Take an unforgettable rail journey from Oslo to Flam on the Flam Railway, voted the most scenic rail journey in the world. During the awe-inspiring journey, you'll slowly descend 2,824 feet in just under an hour, and witness panoramic views of rugged mountains, deep valleys and thundering waterfalls as you descend into the Aurlandsfjord.

Upon your arrival in Flam, you'll relax over a delicious dinner at Ægir restaurant, where the Viking dinner menu includes the famous Ægir Viking plank - 5 courses of delicious local food paired with 5 different Ægir beers served on a plank. Spend two nights in beautiful Flam seeing all the sights, eating delicious local cuisine, and taking an unforgettable journey by safari rib boat through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Aurlandsfjord.

From Flam, take another scenic journey by ferry through dramatic fjords to colourful Bergen for two days of sightseeing and scenery. Discover the colourful Hanseatic buildings of Bryggen and Vågen harbours or take the Fløibanen funicular up to the top of Mount Fløyen for spectacular views of the entire city and the surrounding region. From Bergen, return to Oslo on the famous Bergen rail line for a final night in the capital city. Learn more about this journey by clicking here. 

Grand Scandinavian Tour

Experience the best of Scandinavia with this vacation – the perfect itinerary for first-time visitors.

Explore the beautiful harbour city of Copenhagen, discover Scandinavian cuisine in Gothenburg, marvel at the Norwegian Fjords in Oslo, and wander around Stockholm's beautiful old town on a true journey of discovery.

Start with two days of discovering famously laid-back, friendly Copenhagen. A great place to start is Nyhavn, famed for its colourful houses - one of which was historically the home of Hans Christian Andersen. Catch a canal tour winding through the city's picturesque waterways, spotting sights such as the modern Opera House and the world-famous Little Mermaid statue. Enjoy the amazing wealth of museums, culture, shopping, and sightseeing opportunities in this vibrant city!

From Copenhagen, take the famously scenic rail journey to Gothenburg, travelling across the marvellous Øresund bridge. Spend a night in the laid-back city, taking in one of Gothenburg's many museums, or take a boat trip out to the 17th-century Alvsborgs Fastening Fortress. After an afternoon spent sightseeing, relax in one of the city's restaurants. Foodies rejoice - Gothenburg is a real culinary hub with a reputation for innovative cuisine using local produce.

From Gothenburg, travel by train to the Norwegian capital of Oslo and enjoy two days of discovering Oslo's fascinating history. Visit the Historical Museum or view a full-scale boat in the fascinating Viking Ship Museum. Be sure to wander the Gamlebyen (old town) area, as well as soaking up the waterside views with a stroll along the Akerselva River. Step inside Oslo Cathedral, which was first built in 1697, to marvel at the stained glass windows and beautifully painted ceiling, or indulge in some shopping in Stortorget's open-air market. A boat trip out to discover Oslo's Fjords is a fantastic way to spend a sunny afternoon and will grant you an insight into the natural history of the city.

From Oslo, make your way by train for two additional nights in Sweden's vibrant capital of Stockholm. Spend time in Gamla Stan and the Old Town area, including the Royal Palace with the Crown Jewel exhibition and the spectacular cathedral dating back to the mid-13th century. In the evening, check out the vibrant nightlife and huge choice of gourmet restaurants that the city has to offer - the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Cologne and Copenhagen

Explore the sights and sounds of two European favourites on one 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 fairytale Danish capital where cool contemporary melds with historic charm! Rhine-side Cologne plays host to spectacular views, especially from the river banks or from the top of its world-famous Cathedral. Spend time in this historic city exploring the Old Town, perhaps tucking into a traditional meal. Alternatively, take a cruise down the River Rhine or perhaps visit the Chocolate Museum where you can learn the history and process of chocolate making, enjoying a few samples along the way! From Cologne, enjoy a scenic journey on the 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, the Danish capital city. Spend three days discovering this wonderful city brimming with youthful energy, a burgeoning restaurant scene, and rows of chic boutiques.  Learn more about this journey by clicking here.

Bergen, Flam, and Oslo

Experience the true essence of Norway on this scenic journey through magical fjords, snow-capped mountains, and historical towns.

Start in the lively city of Bergen, and discover its small-town charm and friendly atmosphere. Set out to discover the distinctly nautical sights of Norway's second-largest city, including the colourful buildings at the Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site and now home to many of the city's best shops, restaurants, and bars. From Bergen, set out on a spectacular ferry ride through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nærøyfjord, the narrowest fjord in the world. Arrive at the beautiful village of Flam for an idyllic overnight stay. The following day, board the world-famous Flam Railway and ascend the Aurlandsfjord to the high mountain plateau of Myrdal. This incredible journey, which has been voted the most scenic rail journey in the world, delivers awe-inspiring views, including the amazing Kjosfoss Waterfall, where the train stops along the way. At Myrdal, you will transfer to the main train line to Oslo, where you'll spend a final night, adding a dash of excitement and culture to complete this memorable journey through classic Norway. Learn more about this journey by clicking here.

Hamburg and Stockholm

Stockholm delights guests 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! Learn more about this journey by clicking here.