Introducing a New Direct Rail Link Between Malmö and Oslo
A fresh train route now links Malmö, Sweden, directly with Norway’s capital, Oslo, cutting travel time to roughly 6.5 hours. Prior to this connection, the journey was complicated by lengthy bus rides and multiple train transfers. Operated by Swedish rail company Snälltåget, the train departs from Malmö Central Station at 6:38 AM. The route passes through the charming coastal town of Varberg and the city of Gothenburg. Tickets start at 149 Swedish kronor, approximately £11.7 or $15.6 for a one-way trip.
Since its summer 2026 debut, over 25,000 travelers have taken advantage of this service. Plans to increase the number of departures next year highlight the route’s growing popularity. The trip covers about 600 kilometers along Sweden's scenic west coast. Passengers can enjoy the high-speed segment between Malmö and Gothenburg, which takes just 39 minutes.
Traveler Experiences Along the Route
Travel journalist Adam Turner shared his impressions in The Guardian, recalling,
“A decade ago, I first fell in love with exploring Scandinavia by train. This time, I chose the new route to make several stops along the west coast.”During his trip, Turner visited notable spots such as:
- Möllevången district in Malmö, known for its vibrant creative community;
- Slottsskogen Park in Gothenburg, home to deer, penguins, and Gotland ponies.
The journey also features a picturesque stretch from Gothenburg to Oslo, winding through rolling green hills, dense forests, shimmering lakes, and dramatic granite canyons. Upon arrival in Oslo, Turner stayed at Citybox hotel, conveniently located just minutes from the station. From there, he enjoyed a 30-minute walk from Lake Sognsvann to Vettakollen, a popular viewpoint overlooking the outskirts of the city.
Along the route in Varberg, travelers encounter the historic Kallbadhuset, a moorish-style bathhouse built on wooden stilts, where the century-old tradition of nude bathing continues. Access to the saunas costs around £8. This new railway option opens up easier travel between Sweden and Norway, enhancing access to cultural landmarks and natural beauty in both countries.
The launch of this direct Malmö-Oslo train simplifies cross-border journeys by offering a fast and convenient alternative. The planned increase in service frequency next year reflects strong demand and could boost tourism and strengthen ties across the region. With stunning landscapes and rich cultural attractions along the way, this route is an appealing choice for both tourists and locals seeking to explore Scandinavia.
As travelers embrace this new connection, they may also be interested in exploring some of the most breathtaking autumn train journeys across Europe. These scenic routes offer a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant fall foliage and picturesque landscapes, making them ideal for those looking to enhance their travel adventures.