Direct train services between Oulu, Finland, and Haaparanta, Sweden, have resumed after nearly four decades, with the first train departing on August 10, 2026. The service, operated by VR, Finland's state-owned railway, runs 28 times per week and offers tickets starting at €5.40 (£4.60) for mid-October travel.
Route and Schedule
The journey takes approximately one hour and 40 minutes, traveling along the scenic coast of the Gulf of Bothnia. The route includes stops at Oulu, Kemi, Tornio-Itäinen, Tornio, and Haaparanta. Trains depart from Oulu at 05:08 (Mon–Sat), 06:50 (Sun), and 19:50 (daily), with return services from Haaparanta at 06:20 (Mon–Sat), 08:54 (Sun), and 20:45 (daily).
The service also provides connections to long-distance trains heading toward Helsinki, and onward overland connections to other parts of Europe. Oulu is the 2026 European Capital of Culture, which is expected to boost demand for the route.
Why the Service Ended
The original service was suspended in the late 1980s and early 1990s due to declining demand. Additionally, Finland uses a wider track gauge than standard European tracks, similar to Russia, which required a physical transfer at the border. Since then, travelers have had to cross the border by car or on foot.
Finland is currently updating its gauge measurements to match the rest of Europe, which may facilitate smoother cross-border travel in the future.
Traveler Information
VR has reminded passengers to 'familiarise themselves with the destination country’s border crossing requirements and to ensure they carry all necessary travel documents.' This is particularly important given the long hiatus of the service.
The resumption of the service reflects growing demand for 'coolcations,' as more travelers opt for Scandinavian and Baltic destinations over southern Europe. The first train rolled out of the station on August 10, marking the first time the route has operated in almost 40 years.
