The rail holiday experience is equal parts romantic and nostalgic, exciting and immersive. It offers the indulgence of private cabins, onboard dining cars, sweeping panoramic views right outside the window, and relaxation, watching the world go by as you head toward your next destination.
Over recent years, an increasing proportion of travellers have been looking for alternatives to conventional flights, either due to concerns around the carbon footprint and sustainability of air travel, because they dislike the chaos and queues associated with airports, or because they want to make the most of every holiday and soak in as much as possible.
Rail holidays are one of many services offered by the travel specialists at the Baltic Travel Company. They have compiled this guide to clarify what you can expect from a rail trip, the types of tours and itineraries available to book now, and some of the top-selling rail packages in strong demand.
Reasons for the Growing Interest in Nordic Train Holidays
Exploring the backdrops of Scandinavia and the Nordics by train is a holiday like no other, especially for those who take in the Norwegian Flåm Railway—considered the most beautifully scenic rail journey worldwide. This track climbs over 2,800 feet in the space of an hour and zooms past deep valleys, dramatic waterfalls, and towering mountains.
Rail travel offers the chance to see seasonal landscapes from the comfort of your carriage, with contrasts between snow-covered forests and rich, green mountain meadows. It also enables you to savour the time taken to head from one city, attraction, or stop-off point to the next.
We often speak with guests who are tired of air travel, want to find a more eco-conscious way to tour the world, or for whom the concept of stretching their legs in a first-class cabin, watching the scenery without rushing, and staying overnight in elegant surroundings is the epitome of adventure.
Train travel is known to be one of the lowest-carbon ways to visit a destination, and as you might expect, the links within the Nordics are incredibly reliable and efficient. They boast outstanding connections and provide a way to see some of the world's most protected and untouched landscapes with a light touch impact.
If you're keen to see all the region has to offer without traffic, congestion, check-in desks or simply dislike the experience of flying, a rail holiday may be perfect for you. There are many options, from sleeper carriages and modern trains with flawless Wi-Fi connections to charming rail links that celebrate heritage and history.
Navigating Norway by Train: The Norway in a Nutshell Package
Norway in a Nutshell is a five-day, four-night experience that takes you through some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the country's fjord region, covering the famous Flåm Railway alongside the Bergen Railway, the Nærøyfjord and the Aurlandsfjord.
Starting from Oslo, the Norwegian capital, you'll stay in a comfortable central hotel before departing to Myrdal on day one, changing to the Flåm Railway to see some of the wildest vistas characterised by sheer mountains and waterfalls, as a unique adhesion railway that is remarkably steep.
Following an overnight stay, you'll be able to discover Flåm with hiking tours, kayaking activities or bicycle rental before boarding the ferry to Gudvangen, traversing Europe's narrowest fjord channel, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A bus connection will take you through the Nærøyfjord Valley and the sharp hairpin turns of the Stalheimskleiva before travelling to Bergen by rail—the second largest city in Norway and the only one internationally with no less than seven fjords and mountains bracketing the metropolitan area.
During the last full day, you can venture into Bergen, also known as the Gateway to the Fjords, and see sights like the Fløibanen Funicular, the Hanseatic Bryggen Harbour, the Bergen Aquarium, and the Fish and Flower market. You'll stay at a hotel overnight before the journey home.
Sampling the Best of Finland With a Self-Guided Train Holiday Package
Our Finland in a Nutshell seven-day holiday itinerary offers a similarly diverse experience. It uses the eco-friendly and comfortable, well-appointed train networks to depart Helsinki, the cosmopolitan capital city, and travel through the forests, lakes, and rivers the Finnish countryside is known for.
After strolling the city streets and shopping for souvenirs, you'll embark on a train connection that takes you into the heart of Finland's Lakelands, arriving at Kuopio. Lunch is served onboard, and on arrival, you'll stay overnight on the shores of Lake Kallavesi.
The next day, the train connection will take you to Oulu, the most populated city at this latitude and with a rich history. It was established in 1600 as an important trading port based on the mouth of the river that leads into the Gulf of Bothnia.
On day four, guests can browse the markets, unwind in the parks and green spaces, or hire a bike before journeying towards central Lapland and the Arctic Circle, departing the train in Rovaniemi. Activities and excursions include a visit to the Arktikum Science Museum to learn about local Sami culture and visiting the Santa Village during the festive season.
Over the last days of this thrilling holiday, travellers board an overnight train to Turku. The train has double-decker sleeping cars, en-suite bathrooms, and a restaurant car where you can soak in the sights as you travel through the rural region.
Turku was once the Finnish capital city and remains a hub for architecture, craftsmanship, and artisanal goods. It is a wonderful place to while away the time before returning to Helsinki and your onward flights home.
Reserving Your Luxury Nordic Railway Adventure
As we've seen, railway holidays blend convenience and eco-friendliness. They take in countless cities, attractions, and cultural sights and allow you to see vast views of untouched scenery—with ample stop-off points for dining, sightseeing, activities, and shopping along the way.
Read more about Baltic Travel Company - The Best Holiday Destinations in the World for Tranquillity, Peace and Awe-Inspiring Landscapes
About Baltic Travel Company
We specialise in crafting unique, tailor-made travel experiences that showcase the diverse wonders of Europe and the Baltic region. With over 15 years of experience, our dedicated travel experts are committed to providing exceptional service and unparalleled expertise to ensure your Baltic adventure exceeds your expectations. From cultural city breaks to the inspiring northern lights and breathtaking natural landscapes, our carefully curated itineraries highlight the very best of the Nordic Region, Scandinavia, The Baltic Region, Poland, Slovakia and more. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or group, embark on a journey of discovery with Baltic Travel Company – your ultimate travel partner in exploring the hidden gems of the Baltics.
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