A new direct train service has commenced operations in Sweden, offering a picturesque 600km journey along the nation's west coast. Launched by Swedish railway company Snälltåget on 15th June, the route connects the city of Malmö to the Norwegian capital, Oslo, with tickets available for as little as 149 SEK, equating to approximately £11.70, depending on the travel season.
This new daytime service provides passengers with a unique opportunity to experience Sweden's varied landscapes, encompassing coastal vistas, historic landmarks, and expansive lakes. The train travels via Gothenburg, making stops at several other Swedish and Norwegian coastal destinations, including Lund, Helsingborg, Halmstad, Varberg, Trollhättan, Sarpsborg, and Fredrikstad.
To enhance the travel experience, the Swedish tourist board has issued recommendations for passengers on how best to appreciate the scenery. The journey is divided into three distinct geographical stages. For the initial leg from Malmö to Gothenburg, travellers are advised to sit on the left (west) side for views of coastal features such as Varberg Fortress, or the right (east) side for historical sites like Lund Cathedral.
The second stage, from Gothenburg to Mellerud, is best enjoyed from the right-hand side, offering views of lakes and rivers, including the impressive Lake Vänern. This body of water, Europe's third-largest lake, is so vast it can resemble an open ocean. The final stage, Mellerud to the Kornsjö Border, promises spectacular views from both sides of the train, featuring the dramatic Granite Canyons and elevated perspectives of Lake Stora Le near Ed.
The service operates once daily in each direction. The train departs Malmö at 6:38 am, arriving in Oslo at 1:16 pm, with a slightly later departure on Sundays at 7:05 am. The return journey from Oslo leaves at 2:48 pm, reaching Malmö at 9:25 pm. Passengers are permitted two pieces of hand luggage and one smaller personal item, though non-folding bicycles are not allowed. An onboard restaurant, Krogen, is available, with booking and meal pre-ordering recommended when purchasing tickets.
This new route also offers extended travel options for passengers. Those arriving in Malmö can seamlessly connect to a Snälltåget night train service to Berlin, which also stops in Copenhagen and Hamburg, providing a more convenient rail link from Oslo to the German capital.