A train service between Oulu, Finland, and Haaparanta, Sweden, has resumed after nearly 40 years, operated by VR, Finland's state-owned railway. The first train departed on August 10, and the route now runs 28 trains per week, with connections to long-distance services toward Helsinki.
Route and schedule
The journey takes around one hour and 40 minutes, traveling along the scenic coast of the Gulf of Bothnia. Ticket prices vary by season, with the cheapest fares starting at €5.40 (£4.60) for mid-October bookings.
The service stops at Oulu, Kemi, Tornio-Itäinen, Tornio, and Haaparanta. Timings include departures 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).
Why the service ended
The original service was suspended in the late 1980s and early 1990s due to declining demand. Additionally, differing track gauges between Finland and Sweden required a physical transfer at the border, as Finland uses a wider gauge similar to Russia's.
Since then, travelers have had to cross the border by car or on foot. Finland is currently updating its gauge measurements to align with the rest of Europe.
Travel requirements
VR has reminded passengers to 'familiarise themselves with the destination country’s border crossing requirements and to ensure they carry all necessary travel documents.' The connection to Sweden also enables overland travel to other parts of Europe.
