New direct rail link to connect Sweden and Norway this summer

Friday 27 February 2026 - 16:30

By: Sahili Aya

New direct rail link to connect Sweden and Norway this summer

A new cross-border rail connection will link Sweden and Norway starting this summer, offering travelers a direct and environmentally friendly alternative between major Scandinavian cities.

Swedish private rail operator Snälltåget announced that it will launch a daily direct service on 15 June 2026 connecting Malmö, Göteborg and Oslo. The journey is expected to take approximately six and a half hours, positioning rail as a competitive option compared with car travel.

A scenic route along Sweden’s west coast

The train will travel along Sweden’s west coast, stopping at around ten stations, including Lund and Halmstad, before crossing into Norway. In Göteborg, the service will call at two peripheral stations rather than the central station, with local connections enabling passengers to reach the city center efficiently.

Departures from Malmö Central Station are scheduled early in the morning, with arrival in Oslo around midday. In the opposite direction, afternoon departures from Oslo will allow passengers to reach Malmö in the evening. The total travel time is comparable to driving, while offering the added comfort of avoiding road fatigue.

The launch comes amid growing demand for sustainable travel options across Europe, as more passengers seek alternatives to short-haul flights and long car journeys.

Competitive fares and onboard services

Ticket prices are expected to start at a relatively affordable level for long-distance Scandinavian travel, with flexible fares available. Each train will include a restaurant car, branded “Krogen,” where passengers can purchase meals and refreshments during the journey.

In addition to the new Norway service, Snälltåget plans to expand its international operations further. From early May, the company will operate a daytime connection between Sweden and Germany, strengthening rail links between Scandinavia and continental Europe.

With Malmö serving as a key hub, travelers will be able to connect onward to destinations such as Copenhagen, Berlin or Hamburg, facilitating multi-city rail itineraries without relying on air travel.

The new line reflects a broader European trend toward improving cross-border rail connectivity, aiming to make train travel a more seamless and attractive choice for both leisure and business passengers.