Trains from Stockholm Central

Stockholm Central station guide

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This page explains how to travel by train or ferry from Stockholm to other key European cities, and how to buy tickets the cheapest way.  Information current for 2024.

bullet pointBefore you buy your tickets

Take a moment to read these tips for buying European train tickets.  It answers all the usual questions, "Must I book in advance or can I buy at the station?", "Can I stop off?", "Are there Senior fares?" and that old favourite, "Should I buy an $800 railpass or a €35 point-to-point ticket?".  How far ahead can you buy train tickets?

bullet pointEuropean train travel FAQ

An introduction to European train travel

 

Senior fares (over 60)

 

Guide to Eurail passes (overseas visitors)

Important tips for buying European train tickets

Youth fares (under 26)

 

Guide to Interrail passes (for Europeans)

How to check European train times

Child fares & child age limits

 

Couchettes & sleepers on night trains

Do I need to book in advance?

Luggage on European trains

 

Train seat numbering plans

How far ahead can I book?

Luggage storage at stations

 

Wheelchairs & special needs

Can I stop off on the way?

Taking a bike by train

 

Real-time service updates

Should I travel 1st or 2nd class?

Taking a car by train

 

Hotels & accommodation

How long to allow for connections?

Taking dogs & pets by train

 

Changing stations in Paris by metro or taxi

How early to arrive at the station?

Maps of the European rail network

 

What to do when things go wrong...


Stockholm to Gothenburg, Malmö & other destinations in Sweden

Stockholm to Gothenburg:  SJ or VR?

MTRX train to Gothenburg at Stockholm Central   MTRX train to Gothenburg at Stockholm Central

On board an MTRX train to Gothenburg.

 

An MTRX train at Gothenburg.  Courtesy of Staffan Rosvall.

Stockholm to Malmö:  SJ or Snälltåget?

Snalltaget train to Stockholm at Malmo Central station

A Snälltåget train to Stockholm at Malmö Central station.

Snalltaget's 'krogen' restaurant car   Flixtrain from Stockholm to Gothenburg

Snälltåget's excellent restaurant car, called the Krogen.

 

Seating on a Snälltåget train to Malmö.

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Stockholm to London

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Stockholm to Paris

Option 1, Stockholm to Paris using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper train

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

Step 1, Stockholm to Hamburg by sleeper.  This is the inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Hamburg Altona on 1 September 2022.  The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

The inaugural train from Hamburg to Stockholm calls at Padborg, just after entering Denmark.

TGV Duplex at Paris Gare de l'Est

Step 2, Hamburg to Paris by ICE & TGV Duplex. This is a TGV Duplex at Paris Est More about TGV Duplex.

TGV Duplex cafe-bar   TGV Duplex upper deck 2nd class seats

Cafe-bar on upper deck in car 4, serving tea, coffee, soft drinks, wine, beer, snacks & microwaved hot dishes.

 

2nd class seats on upper deck.  There's a mix or tables for 4 and unidirectional seating.  360º photo.

First class on board a TGV Duplex   An TGV Duplex at Paris Est.

1st class upper deck seats, club duo on the left, club quatre on the right.  360º photo.

 

A TGV Duplex.  The 1 near the door indicates 1st class, a 2 indicates 2nd class.

Option 2, Stockholm to Paris using the Hamburg-Karlsruhe Nightjet sleeper train

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train   1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train

1st class seats are in 6-seat compartments.

 

2nd class is open-plan.

Double-deck sleeping-car on a Nightjet at Zurich

Step 3, Hamburg to Karlsruhe by NightjetMore about Nightjets. Courtesy of DiscoverbyRail.com.

   

2-berth sleeper on the lower deck.

 

Stairs down to pair of lower compartments.

 

1 or 2-bed sleeper on lower deck with washbasin, viewed through window.  Set up as 1-bed.  Note how compact the compartment is.

    4-berth couchette on Nightjet train

Nightjet couchette car.

 

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

TGV Duplex at Paris Gare de l'Est

Step 4, Karlsruhe to Paris by TGV Duplex. More about TGV Duplex.

TGV Duplex cafe-bar   TGV Duplex upper deck 2nd class seats

Cafe-bar on upper deck in car 4, serving tea, coffee, soft drinks, wine, beer, snacks & microwaved hot dishes.

 

2nd class seats on upper deck.  There's a mix or tables for 4 and unidirectional seating.  360º photo.

First class on board a TGV Duplex   An TGV Duplex at Paris Est.

1st class upper deck seats, club duo on the left, club quatre on the right.  360º photo.

 

A TGV Duplex.  The 1 near the door indicates 1st class, a 2 indicates 2nd class.

Option 3, Stockholm to Paris with overnight stop in Hamburg

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train   1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train

1st class seats are in 6-seat compartments.

 

2nd class is open-plan.

TGV Duplex from Paris Gare de l'Est to Stuttgart & Munich

Step 3, Hamburg to Paris by ICE & TGV Duplex. Pictured above, a TGV Duplex at Paris Est.  These impressive 320 km/h double-deck trains have 1st & 2nd class & cafe-bar.

TGV Duplex cafe-bar   TGV Duplex upper deck 2nd class seats

Cafe-bar on upper deck in car 4 (or 14), serving tea, coffee, soft drinks, wine, beer, snacks & microwaved dishes.

 

2nd class seats, this is upper deck seating.  There's a mix or tables for 4 and unidirectional seating.

First class on board a TGV Duplex   An TGV Duplex at Paris Est.

1st class upper deck, a club duo on the left, a club quatre on the right.

 

A TGV Duplex.  The 1 next to the door indicates 1st class, a 2 indicates 2nd class.

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Stockholm to Brussels or Bruges from €69.90

Option 1, Stockholm to Brussels using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper train.

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

Step 1, Stockholm to Hamburg by sleeper.  This is the inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Hamburg Altona, 1 September 2022.  The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

The inaugural train from Hamburg to Stockholm calls at Padborg, just after entering Denmark.

ICE3neo at Brussels Midi

Step 2, Hamburg to Cologne to Brussels by ICE. More about ICE trains.  Above, an ICE3neo at Brussels Midi.  Photo courtesy of Christian Hunt.

ICE3neo at Cologne   ICE3neo at Cologne

The restaurant car.  See current month's menu.

 

1st class seats on an ICE3neo.  Larger photo.

ICE3neo at Cologne   Lunch on an ICE3neo

2nd class seats on an ICE3neo.  Larger photo.

 

Lunch:  I recommend the Erdinger Weissbier!

Option 2, Stockholm to Brussels with overnight stop in Hamburg, from €69.90

Option 3, Stockholm to Brussels with overnight stop in Copenhagen, from €59.90

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train   1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train

1st class seats are in 6-seat compartments.

 

2nd class is open-plan.

ICE3neo at Brussels Midi

Step 3, Hamburg to Cologne & Cologne to Brussels by ICE.  This is an ICE3neo at Brussels Midi with restaurant car, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about ICE trains.  Photo courtesy of Christian Hunt.

ICE3neo at Cologne   ICE3neo at Cologne

The restaurant car.  See current month's menu.

 

1st class seats on an ICE3neo.  Larger photo.

ICE3neo at Cologne   Lunch on an ICE3neo

.2nd class seats on an ICE3neo.  Larger photo.

 

Lunch and a beer.

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Stockholm to Amsterdam

Option 1, Stockholm to Amsterdam using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper train, daily all year.

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

Step 1, Stockholm to Hamburg by sleeper.  This is the inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Hamburg Altona, 1 September 2022.  The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

The inaugural train from Hamburg to Stockholm calls at Padborg, just after entering Denmark.

ICE4 at Hamburg Hbf

Step 2, Hamburg to Osnabrück by ICE4.  These come with a waiter-service restaurant car, cafe counter, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about ICEs.

1st class on an ICE4 train   Restaurant car on an ICE4 train

1st class on an ICE4.

 

Restaurant car on an ICE4.  Sample menu.

Bar counter car on an ICE4 train   2nd class on an ICE4 train

Bar counter at the other end of the kitchen.

 

2nd class seats on an ICE4.

Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train

Step 3, Osnabrück to Amsterdam by Intercity train, seen here arrived at Amsterdam Centraal.  Power sockets at all seats and a refreshment trolley.  More about these Intercity trains.

1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train   1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train

1st class seats are in 6-seat compartments.

 

2nd class is open-plan.

Option 2, Stockholm to Amsterdam with overnight stop in Hamburg, from €56.90

Option 3, Stockholm to Amsterdam with overnight stop in Copenhagen, from €56.90

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train   1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train

1st class seats are in 6-seat compartments.

 

2nd class is open-plan.

ICE4 at Hamburg Hbf

Step 3, Hamburg to Osnabruck by ICE4.  These come with a waiter-service restaurant car, cafe counter, power sockets at all seats & free WiFi.  More about ICEs.

1st class on an ICE4 train   Restaurant car on an ICE4 train

1st class on an ICE4.

 

Restaurant car on an ICE4.  Sample menu.

Bar counter car on an ICE4 train   2nd class on an ICE4 train

Bar counter at the other end of the kitchen.

 

2nd class seats on an ICE4.

Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train

Step 4, Osnabrück to Amsterdam by Intercity train, seen here arrived at Amsterdam Centraal.  Power sockets at all seats and a refreshment trolley.  More about these Intercity trains.

1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train   1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train

1st class seats are in 6-seat compartments.

 

2nd class is open-plan.

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Stockholm to Luxembourg

Option 1, Stockholm to Luxembourg using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper train, daily all year

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

The inaugural Hamburg to Stockholm SJ EuroNight train in Hamburg on 1 September 2022. The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

Inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Padborg.

Option 2, Stockholm to Luxembourg with overnight stop in Hamburg, from €69.90

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train   1st class compartment on the Amsterdam to Berlin InterCity train

1st class seats are in 6-seat compartments.

 

2nd class is open-plan.

Double-deck train between Koblenz, Trier & Luxembourg

Step 3, Hamburg to Koblenz by Intercity train, Koblenz to Luxembourg by double deck regional train.  This is a CFL double-decker at Luxembourg.

1st class on a Koblenz-Luxembourg train   1st class on a Koblenz-Luxembourg train

1st class on the upper deck. Larger photo.

 

2nd class on the upper deck.  Larger photo.

Scenery along the Moselle between Koblenz & Luxembourg

Scenery along the Moselle between Koblenz & Luxembourg in the morning sun, the mists still clearing.  For the best river views, sit on the left hand side going west from Koblenz.

Option 3, Stockholm to Luxembourg with overnight stop in Copenhagen, from €59.90

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Stockholm to Basel, Zurich & Switzerland from €66

Option 1, Stockholm to Switzerland using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper train

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

The inaugural Hamburg to Stockholm SJ EuroNight train in Hamburg on 1 September 2022. The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

Inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Padborg.

Option 2, Stockholm to Italy using the Hamburg-Zurich sleeper - time-effective & scenic.

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

Double-deck sleeping-car on a Nightjet at Zurich

Step 3, Hamburg to Basel or Zurich by Nightjet sleeper train.  This is a double-deck sleeping-car arrived at Zurich HB. Courtesy of DiscoverbyRail.com.

   

2-berth sleeper on the lower deck.

 

Stairs down to pair of lower compartments.

 

1 or 2-bed sleeper on lower deck with washbasin, viewed through window.  Set up as 1-bed.  Note how compact the compartment is.

  6-berth couchettes   4-berth couchettes

Couchette car.

 

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

Option 3, Stockholm to Switzerland with overnight stop in Hamburg

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Copenhagen by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

ICE4 at Hamburg Hbf

Step 3, Hamburg to Switzerland by ICE.  This is an ICE4 at Hamburg Altona, most Hamburg-Switzerland ICEs are now ICE4.  Click on the interior images below for larger photos.

1st class on an ICE4 train   Restaurant car on an ICE4 train

1st class on an ICE4.

 

Restaurant car.  See current month's menu

Bar counter car on an ICE4 train   2nd class on an ICE4 train

The bar counter, other end of the restaurant car.

 

2nd class seats on an ICE4.

Option 4, Stockholm to Switzerland with overnight stop In Copenhagen

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Stockholm to Venice, Florence, Rome, Milan & Italy

Option 1, Stockholm to Milan using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper train, daily all year.

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

The inaugural Hamburg to Stockholm SJ EuroNight train in Hamburg on 1 September 2022. The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

Inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Padborg.

Option 2, Stockholm to Italy with overnight stop in Hamburg

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Copenhagen by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

ICE4 at Zurich HB

Step 3, Hamburg to Switzerland by ICE.  This is an ICE4 arrived at Zurich HB, most Hamburg-Switzerland ICEs are now ICE4.  Click on the interior images below for larger photos.

1st class on an ICE4 train   Restaurant car on an ICE4 train

1st class on an ICE4.

 

Restaurant car.  See current month's menu

Bar counter car on an ICE4 train   2nd class on an ICE4 train

The bar counter, other end of the restaurant car.

 

2nd class seats on an ICE4.

EuroCity train from Zurich to Milan at Zurich HB

Step 4, Zurich to Milan by EuroCity train.  This is an SBB Giruno train about to leave Zurich HBMore about Zurich-Milan EuroCity trains.

1st class on Giruno   Restaurant car on Giruno

Giruno, 1st class.  Larger photo.

 

Restaurant car with bar counter. Larger photo.

2nd class on Giruna   Bar counter in the restaurant car

Giruno 2nd class.  Larger photo

 

Level boarding. Note the destination screen in the door. 

Lake Lugano, seen from a Milan to Zurich train

Lake Lugano, seen from a Milan to Zurich train on the Gotthard route.  On the Zurich-Milan Gotthard route you'll also pass the Zugersee & the Vierwaldstattersee in Switzerland, and if it's a train routed via Como, you'll glimpse Lake Como too.

Option 3, Stockholm to Italy using the Hamburg-Zurich sleeper - time-effective & scenic.

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

Double-deck sleeping-car on a Nightjet at Zurich

Step 3, Hamburg to Zurich by Nightjet sleeper train.  This is a double-deck sleeping-car arrived at Zurich HB. Courtesy of DiscoverbyRail.com.

   

2-berth sleeper on the lower deck.

 

Stairs down to pair of lower compartments.

 

1 or 2-bed sleeper on lower deck with washbasin, viewed through window.  Set up as 1-bed.  Note how compact the compartment is.

  6-berth couchettes   4-berth couchettes

Couchette car.

 

6-berth couchettes.

 

4-berth couchettes.

EuroCity train from Zurich to Milan at Zurich HB

Step 4, Zurich to Milan by EuroCity train.  This is an SBB Giruno train about to leave Zurich HBMore about Zurich-Milan EuroCity trains.

1st class on Giruno   Restaurant car on Giruno

Giruno, 1st class.  Larger photo.

 

Restaurant car with bar counter. Larger photo.

2nd class on Giruna   Bar counter in the restaurant car

Giruno 2nd class.  Larger photo

 

Level boarding. Note the destination screen in the door. 

Lake Lugano, seen from a Milan to Zurich train

Lake Lugano, seen from a Milan to Zurich train on the Gotthard route.  On the Zurich-Milan Gotthard route you'll also pass the Zugersee & the Vierwaldstattersee in Switzerland, and if it's a train routed via Como, you'll glimpse Lake Como too.

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Stockholm to Barcelona, Madrid & Spain

Option 1, Stockholm to Spain using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper

Option 2, Stockholm to Spain with overnight stops in Hamburg & Paris

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Stockholm to Lisbon & Portugal

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Stockholm to Hamburg or Berlin from €44.90

Option 1, Stockholm to Hamburg & Berlin in a single day

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

Frankfurt to Vienna ICE train

Step 3, Hamburg to Berlin by ICE.  Various types operate between Hamburg & Berlin, this is an ICE-T.  More about ICE trains.

1st class table for two on the Berlin to Vienna ICE train   Lunch in the restaurant car on the Berlin to Vienna ICE train

Table for two in 1st class, my favourite configuration.  There are also tables for four in both classes.

 

Lunch in the restaurant.  In 1st class you can choose to be served at your seat.  I recommend the Erdinger Weissbier!

ICE-T train, driving cab   ICE-T train, 2nd class

You can see into the cab at each end of the train.

 

Comfortable 2nd class seats on an ICE-T.

Option 2, Stockholm to Hamburg & Berlin by direct sleeper train, daily all year round

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

The inaugural Hamburg to Stockholm SJ EuroNight train in Hamburg on 1 September 2022. The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

Inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Padborg.

Option 3, Stockholm & Malmö to Hamburg & Berlin by Snälltåget sleeper train, daily except Saturdays 31 March to 1 November 2024

The Snalltaget sleeper toHamburg & Berlin, at Stockholm Central

The Snälltåget sleeper from Stockholm to Hamburg & Berlin, seen at Stockholm Central about to make its inaugural departure on 28 June 2021.  Courtesy of Robert Enskog.

Stockholm-Berlin couchette, day mode   Stockholm-Berlin couchette, night mode

The Snälltåget sleeper train uses ex-German Railways couchettes, sold as a whole private compartment for up to 6 people.  Bedding is provided, toilets & washrooms are at the end of the corridor.  Photos courtesy of Snalltaget.

Option 4, Stockholm to Germany using the Stockholm-Malmo sleeper

Sleeper train to Malmo at Stockholm Central

The overnight sleeper to Malmö, about to leave Stockholm Central. Courtesy of Andrew Henry.

Sleeper train to Malmo at Stockholm   1 or 2-bed sleeper   The en suite toilet & shower

1st class sleeper with en suite shower & toilet, shown in day mode (above left) and night mode set up as a single with upper berth folded against the wall (above centre).  Courtesy of Discoverbyrail.com.  Click the images for larger photos.

6-berth couchettes on Malmo to Stockholm sleeper train   Sleeper train from Malmo to Stockholm

6-berth couchettes - the economy option.  Larger photo.

 

The sleeper at Malmö Central.  This is the sleeping-car with private 1 or 2-berth compartments with en suite shower & toilet.  Courtesy of Ivor Morgan.

Option 5, Stockholm to Germany with an overnight stop in Copenhagen

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Stockholm to Düsseldorf, Cologne, Frankfurt, Munich & Germany from €56.90

Option 1, Stockholm to Germany using the Stockholm-Hamburg/Berlin sleeper train, daily all year

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

The inaugural Hamburg to Stockholm SJ EuroNight train in Hamburg on 1 September 2022. The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

Inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Padborg.

Option 2, Stockholm to Germany with overnight stop In Copenhagen, from €56.90

Option 3, Stockholm to Germany with overnight stop In Hamburg, from €56.90

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

Frankfurt to Vienna ICE train

Step 3, Hamburg to anywhere in Germany by ICE or IC train.  Various types of train operate between Hamburg & the rest of Germany, this is an ICE-T.  More about ICE trains.

1st class table for two on the Berlin to Vienna ICE train   Lunch in the restaurant car on the Berlin to Vienna ICE train

Table for two in 1st class, my favourite configuration.  There are also tables for four in both classes.

 

Lunch in the restaurant.  In 1st class you can choose to be served at your seat.  I recommend the Erdinger Weissbier!

ICE-T train, driving cab   ICE-T train, 2nd class

You can see into the cab at each end of the train.

 

Comfortable 2nd class seats on an ICE-T.

Option 4, Stockholm to Germany using the Stockholm-Malmo sleeper

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Stockholm to Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck & Austria from €79.90

Option 1, Stockholm to Vienna using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper train, daily all year

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

The inaugural Hamburg to Stockholm SJ EuroNight train in Hamburg on 1 September 2022. The author rode this first departure.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Standard sleeper, set up as a double   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

2-bed sleeper.  Larger photo.

Inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Padborg.

Option 2, Stockholm to Vienna with overnight stop in Hamburg, from €79

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

An ICE train at Vienna Hbf

Step 3, Hamburg to Vienna by ICE-T.  This is an ICE-T at Vienna Hbf.  More about ICE trains.

1st class table for two on the Berlin to Vienna ICE train   Lunch in the restaurant car on the Berlin to Vienna ICE train

Table for two in 1st class, my favourite configuration.  There are also tables for four in both classes.

 

Lunch in the restaurant.  In 1st class you can choose to be served at your seat.  I recommend the Erdinger Weissbier!

ICE-T train, driving cab   ICE-T train, 2nd class

You can see into the cab at each end of the train.

 

Comfortable 2nd class seats on an ICE-T.

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Stockholm to Copenhagen from 346 SEK (€31)

Option 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen in as little as 4h52 by 200 km/h X2000 train

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Option 2, Stockholm to Copenhagen by Snälltåget daytime train - in competition with SJ in summer 2024!

Snalltaget train to Stockholm at Malmo Central station

A Snälltåget train at Malmö Central station.

Snalltaget's 'krogen' restaurant car   Flixtrain from Stockholm to Gothenburg

Snälltåget's excellent restaurant, the Krogen.

 

Seating on a Snälltåget train.

Option 3, Stockholm to Copenhagen by sleeper train - the time-effective way

Sleeper train to Malmo at Stockholm Central

The overnight sleeper to Malmö, about to leave Stockholm Central. Courtesy of Andrew Henry.

Sleeper train to Malmo at Stockholm   1 or 2-bed sleeper   The en suite toilet & shower

1st class sleeper with en suite shower & toilet, shown in day mode (above left) and night mode set up as a single with upper berth folded against the wall (above centre).  Courtesy of Discoverbyrail.com.  Click the images for larger photos.

6-berth couchettes on Malmo to Stockholm sleeper train   Sleeper train from Malmo to Stockholm

6-berth couchettes - the economy option.  Larger photo.

 

The sleeper at Malmö Central.  This is the sleeping-car with private 1 or 2-berth compartments with en suite shower & toilet.  Courtesy of Ivor Morgan.

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Stockholm to Oslo

What are the SJ3000 trains like?

1st class seats on an SJ3000 train SJ3000 train

2nd class on an SJ3000 train.  Larger photo.

 

An SJ3000 train.  Larger photo.

1st class seats on an SJ3000 train 1st class seats on an SJ3000 train

Bistro on an SJ3000 train.  Larger photo

 

1st class on an SJ3000 train.  Larger photo

What are the Intercity trains like?

Stockholm to Oslo train at Stockholm Central

A Stockholm to Oslo train, at Stockholm Central.

2nd class seats on a Stockholm to Oslo train 1st class seats on a Stockholm to Oslo train

2nd class on a Stockholm to Oslo train.  Larger photo.

 

1st class on a Stockholm to Oslo train.  Larger photo.

Stockholm to Oslo train luggage racks Stockholm to Oslo train

Luggage racks on a Stockholm to Oslo train.

 

Photo courtesy of Dr James Benedict Brown.

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Stockholm to Narvik
Sleeper train to Malmo at Stockholm   1 or 2-bed sleeper   The en suite toilet & shower

1st class sleeper with en suite shower & toilet, shown in day mode (above left) and night mode set up as a single with upper berth folded against the wall (above centre).  Courtesy of Discoverbyrail.com.  Click the images for larger photos.

Scenery from the Stockholm to Narvik train

Scenery from the train between Stockholm & Narvik.  Photo courtesy of Discoverbyrail.com.

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Stockholm to Helsinki

Option 1, Stockholm to Helsinki by direct overnight ferry - a great experience, recommended

This is the nicest and most laid-back experience.  Boarding is a relaxed affair, starting 1½ hours before sailing time.  You've the whole evening to enjoy on the ferry as she sails out of Stockholm through various Swedish islands.  Next morning you can have a lie-in and leisurely breakfast before a punctual mid-morning arrival into Helsinki past the fortress island of Suomenlinna.  These ships have a reputation as party boats, especially at weekends, but you don't need to party if you don't want to.  Two competing ferry companies sail overnight every day, Silja Line and Viking Line.

Option 2, Stockholm to Turku by overnight ferry then train to Helsinki - also overnight, but faster & cheaper

This is significantly cheaper and several hours faster, with an evening departure from Stockholm and mid-morning arrival by train at Helsinki's magnificent central station.  There's also the option of a Stockholm-Turku-Helsinki daytime service, see option 3.  Only Viking Line now operates this route, with both a daytime and overnight crossing with tight turn-rounds so boarding may start as little as 15 minutes before sailing time with staff still finishing cleaning cabins.  The ferry arrives in Turku early morning, you may be asked to vacate your cabin even earlier so cleaning can start.  This route is faster and cheaper, but the direct Stockholm-Helsinki ferries are definitely more relaxed.  Having said that, enjoying a (tax-free, affordable) beer at the outdoor but sheltered Vista Bar as the Viking Glory sails into the sunset is such a great experience.

Option 3, using the daytime ferry from Stockholm to Turku then train to Helsinki - the leisurely daytime option.

Option 4, by train around the top of the Gulf of Bothnia - a long way round taking 2 nights, but all train, no ferry

This takes two nights and a day using two sleeper trains in a row, it involves a 4.6 km walk from Sweden into Finland.  The ferry options are obviously much faster, but if you prefer trains to ferries and want an adventure, this is it!

Option 1, Stockholm to Helsinki by direct overnight ferry

Silja Line ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki

The Silja Serenade at the Värtahamnen terminal in Stockholm, seen from the walkway across the port to the terminal.  Sister ship Silja Symphony is almost identical.  Entering service in 1990, the vast central promenade was a major innovation at the time, since copied by almost every cruise ship.

A class cabin on Silja Serenade from Stockholm to Helsinki Deluxe cabin on Silja Serenade from Stockholm to Helsinki

A class cabin on Silja SerenadeLarger photo.

 

Deluxe cabin on Silja SerenadeLarger photo.

A class cabin on Silja Serenade from Stockholm to Helsinki Central promendade on the Silja Serenade from Stockholm to Helsinki

Grande Buffet on the Silja Serenade.

 

Central promenade on Silja SerenadeLarger photo.

Sunset as the Silja Line ferry sails out of Stockholm for Helsinki

Good night Sweden!  Sunset as the Silja Serenade sails slowly past the many islands out of Stockholm into the Baltic.

Good morning Helsinki!

Good morning Finland!  Make sure you're on deck for the approach to Helsinki.  The ships sails past the King's Steps on the fortress of Suomenlinna, past the Finnish WW2 submarine Vesikko and through a remarkably narrow gap between Suomenlinna and neighbouring island Vallisaari to reach Helsinki harbour.  This photo was indeed taken from the Silja Serenade!

Good morning Helsinki!

The view as the ferry docks in Helsinki. The ferry terminal is walking distance from all the sights, or a number 2 or 3 tram will take you from the terminal to Helsinki station in the city centre.

Silja Line ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki

The Silja Serenade at her berth in Helsinki.

Viking Line also sails overnight from Stockholm to Helsinki to a similar schedule, with the Gabriella & Cinderella.

Viking Line ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki

Option 2, Stockholm to Turku by overnight ferry + train to Helsinki - sleep your way from Stockholm to Finland

Option 3, Stockholm to Turku by daytime ferry + train to Helsinki

Viking Line ferry from Stockholm to Turku

The Viking Glory at her berth in Stockholm.  Launched in 2021, she has bars, restaurants, shops & free WiFi.  The other ship on this route is the Viking Grace, launched in 2013.

A seaside cabin on Viking Glory from Stockholm to Turku A beer on the vista bar on Viking Glory from Stockholm to Turku

Seaside cabin on Viking GloryLarger photo.

 

A beer at sunset at the vista bar on Viking Glory.

Sunset from the Viking Line ferry

Sunset from the Viking Glory.  A beautiful way to travel.

Viking Line ferry from Stockholm to Turku

The Viking Glory docked at Turku.  Turku Port station is a minute or two walk away.

Intercity train from Turku to Helsinki

Turku to Helsinki by Intercity train:  This is a double-deck push-pull Intercity train at Helsinki, with restaurant car, power outlets at all seats & free WiFi.

The train would normally go direct from Turku Port station just 100m from the Viking Line terminal, but from 2022 for a couple of years long-term construction work means a bus transfer from Turku Port station to Kupittaa (in eastern Turku).  However, the bus transfer is well-signed and well-organised.

Ekstra class on a Helsinki to Turku Intercity train Eco class on a Helsinki to Turku Intercity train

Ekstra (1st) class.  Larger photo.

 

Eco (2nd) class.  Larger photo.

Helsinki station

Journey's end:  The magnificent Helsinki station.

Option 4, Stockholm to Helsinki by train - a long way round, but all train, no ferry

Sleeper train to Malmo at Stockholm   1 or 2-bed sleeper   The en suite toilet & shower

Stockholm to Boden by Swedish sleeper train:  This is a 1st class sleeper with shower & toilet, shown in day mode (above left) and night mode set up as a single with upper berth folded against the wall (above centre).  Courtesy of Discoverbyrail.com.  Click the images for larger photos.

Sleeper train to Lapland boarding at Helsinki   2-bed sleeper on a train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi

Tornio to Helsinki by double-deck Finnish sleeper trainPhotos courtesy of Sunil S Mehta.  Click the interior image for larger photo.

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Stockholm to Prague, Bratislava & Budapest from €79.90

Option 1, Stockholm to Prague, Bratislava & Budapest using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper train, daily all year

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

Step 1, Stockholm to Hamburg by sleeper.  This is the inaugural northbound train at Hamburg Altona on 1 September 2022.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Couchettes in day mode on the Hamburg-Stockholm train   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

Couchettes in day mode.  Larger photo.

Inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Padborg.

EuroCity train to Prague about to leave Berlin

Step 2, Hamburg to Prague by EuroCity train, seen here at Berlin Hbf.  Or take trains from Hamburg to Bratislava or Budapest.

First class on Prague to Budapest traiin   2nd class compartment on Prague to Budapest traiin

1st class seats.

 

2nd class seats in a compartment car.

Czech restaurant car on a Berlin to Prague train   Lunch in the restaurant car between Berlin & Prague

So civilised!  A meal in the Czech restaurant car as the Berlin-Prague express snakes along the beautiful Elbe river south of Dresden.  Most Berlin-Prague trains use Czech carriages like this, a few use Hungarian air-conditioned carriages.  More about the journey from Berlin to PraguePhoto courtesy of Philip Dyer-Perry.

More cliffs along the river Elbe

Scenery along the Elbe river between Dresden & Prague.

Option 2, Stockholm to Prague, Bratislava or Budapest with overnight stop in Hamburg, from €79

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

EuroCity train to Prague about to leave Berlin

Step 3, Hamburg to Prague by EuroCity train, seen here at Berlin Hbf.  Or take trains from Hamburg to Bratislava or Budapest.

First class on Prague to Budapest traiin   2nd class compartment on Prague to Budapest traiin

1st class seats.

 

2nd class seats in a compartment car.

Czech restaurant car on a Berlin to Prague train   Lunch in the restaurant car between Berlin & Prague

So civilised!  A meal in the Czech restaurant car as the Berlin-Prague express snakes along the beautiful Elbe river south of Dresden.  Most Berlin-Prague trains use Czech carriages like this, a few use Hungarian air-conditioned carriages.  See more photos, tips & info for the Berlin to Prague train ridePhoto courtesy of Philip Dyer-Perry.

More cliffs along the river Elbe

Scenery along the Elbe river between Dresden & Prague.

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Stockholm to Bucharest & Romania

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Stockholm to Ljubljana, Zagreb, Belgrade, Montenegro

Option 1

Option 2

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Stockholm to Belgrade & Montenegro

Option 1, via Budapest - starts running from 24 November 2024

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Stockholm to Warsaw & Krakow from €79.90

Option 1, Stockholm to Warsaw or Krakow using the Stockholm-Hamburg sleeper train

Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Hamburg Altona   6-berth couchette on the Hamburg-Stockholm SJ night train

Step 1, Stockholm to Hamburg by sleeper.  This is the inaugural northbound sleeper at Hamburg Altona on 1 September 2022.  More about this train.

6-berth couchettes.

Larger photo.

Couchettes in day mode on the Hamburg-Stockholm train   Hamburg-StockholmSJ EuroNight at Padborg

Couchettes in day mode.  Larger photo.

Inaugural Hamburg-Stockholm train at Padborg.

Berlin to Warsaw train at Berlin Hbf

Step 2, Hamburg to Berlin by ICE and Berlin to Warsaw or Krakow by EuroCity train.  This is the Wawel from Berlin to Krakow on platform 11 at Berlin Hbf.

2nd class car on the Berlin to Warsaw train   1st class compartment on a Berlin to Warsaw train.

2nd class compartment.

 

1st class compartment.

Restaurant car on the Berlin to Warsaw train

Restaurant car.  You don't need to reserve a table, just go along and sit down.

Option 2, Stockholm to Warsaw or Krakow by train

An X2000 train at Stockholm Central

Step 1, Stockholm to Copenhagen by tilting 200km/h X2000, seen at Stockholm CentralMore about X2000 trains.

1st class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train 2nd class seats on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

1st class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

 

2nd class on an X2000.  Larger photo.

Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train   Bistro seating area on a Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 train

Bistro seating on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

 

Bistro on an X2000 train. Larger photo.

On the Oresund link!

Crossing the impressive Öresund bridge from Denmark to Sweden.

Hamburg-Copenhagen train at Copenhagen

Step 2, Copenhagen to Hamburg by Intercity train.  From June 2023, these trains are temporarily being operated by former German Railways intercity cars and a Danish electric locomotive, until new trains being built by Talgo arrive in 2024.  The current trains have 1st & 2nd class, power sockets at seats, but no catering so bring your own food & drink.  More about the Hamburg-Copenhagen journey.

2nd clas seats on a DB Intercity train

2nd class seats are almost all open-plan like this.  There are a handful of 6-seat 2nd class compartments in one of the coaches, but only a few.

1st class comparment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train   1st class 6-seat compartment on a Berlin to Amsterdam train

The 1st class car has 6-seater compartments like this. Larger photo Larger photo.

Berlin to Warsaw train at Berlin Hbf

Step 3, Hamburg to Berlin by ICE and Berlin to Warsaw or Krakow by EuroCity train This is the Wawel from Berlin to Krakow on platform 11 at Berlin Hbf.

2nd class car on the Berlin to Warsaw train   1st class compartment on a Berlin to Warsaw train.

2nd class compartment.

 

1st class compartment.

Restaurant car on the Berlin to Warsaw train

Restaurant car.  You don't need to reserve a table, just go along and sit down.

Option 3, Stockholm to Gdynia, Gdansk, Warsaw or Krakow by overnight ferry from Sweden to Poland

Ferry Stena Spirit, Gdynia-Karlskrona   Cabin on the Gdynia-Karlskrona ferry

The ferry Stena Spirit, at Gdynia.  Photos courtesy of railguideeurope.com.

 

2-berth cabin.  Larger photo.

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Stockholm to Tallinn

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Stockholm to Riga

Option 1, Stockholm to Riga by direct ferry

Option 2, Stockholm to Riga using the Stockholm-Tallinn ferry

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Stockholm to Vilnius
Karlshamn to Klaipeda DFDS ferry

DFDS ferry Luna Seaways (on the right) arrived at Klaipeda.  Photo courtesy of Matias Lq.

Klaipeda station   Klaipeda to Vilnius train

Step 3, take a train from Klaipeda to Vilnius.  Above left, Klaipeda station. Above right, the express train to Vilnius.  Photos courtesy of Lewis Baston.

Vilnius railway station

Vilnius station.  Photo courtesy of Yuk Wah Chu.

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Stockholm to St Petersburg & Moscow

Option 1, Stockholm to St Petersburg by direct cruise ferry

Option 2, Stockholm to St Petersburg by ferry to Finland then train from Helsinki to St Petersburg & Moscow

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Stockholm to Athens & Greece

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Stockholm to Sofia & Istanbul

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Hotels in Stockholm

For good hotels near Stockholm Central, see here.

Find hotels at Booking.comMy favourite hotel search: www.booking.com

Booking.com is my favourite hotel booking site and I generally use it to book all my hotels in one place.  I've come to trust booking.com's review scores, you won't be disappointed with any hotel that scores 8.0 or more.  Crucially, booking.com usually lets you book with free cancellation, which means you can confirm accommodation risk-free before train booking opens and/or you can hold accommodation while you finalise your itinerary and alter your plans as they evolve - a feature I use all the time when planning a trip.  I never book hotels non-refundably!

Backpacker hostels

www.hostelworld.com:  If you're on a tight budget, don't forget about backpacker hostels.  Hostelworld offers online booking of cheap private rooms or dorm beds in backpacker hostels in most cities at rock-bottom prices.

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Travel insurance & VPN

 

Staysure travel insurance

 

Columbus Direct logo

Always take out travel insurance

Never travel overseas without travel insurance from a reliable insurer, with at least £1m or preferably £5m medical cover.  It should also cover cancellation and loss of cash and belongings, up to a sensible limit.  An annual multi-trip policy is usually cheaper than several single-trip policies even for just 2 or 3 trips a year, I have an annual policy with Staysure.co.uk myself.  Here are some suggested insurers.  Seat61 gets a small commission if you buy through these links.

UK flag  www.staysure.co.uk offers enhanced Covid-19 protection & gets 4.7 out of 5 on Trustpilot.

UK flag  www.columbusdirect.com is also a well-know brand.

US flag  If you live in the USA try Travel Guard USA.

 

Maya.net logo

Get an eSIM with mobile data package

Don't rely on WiFi, download an eSIM with a mobile data package for the country you're visiting and stay connected.  Most newer mobile phones can download a virtual SIM card so you don't need to buy a physical SIM, including iPhone 11 & later, see device compatibility listMaya.net is a reliable eSIM data retailer with a 4.5 out of 5 Trustpilot rating and a range of packages including unlimited data.

 

Curve card

Curve card

Get a Curve card for foreign travel

Most banks give you a poor exchange rate, then add a foreign transaction fee on top.  A Curve MasterCard means no foreign transaction fees and gives you the mid-market exchange rate, at least up to a certain limit, £500 per month at time of writing.  The money you spend on your Curve card goes straight onto one of your existing debit or credit cards.

How it works:  1. Download the Curve app for iPhone or Android.  2. Enter your details & they'll send you a Curve MasterCard - they send to the UK and most European addresses.  3. Link your existing credit & debit cards to the app, you can link up to two cards with the free version of Curve, I link my normal debit card and my normal credit card.  4. Now use the Curve MasterCard to buy things online or in person or take cash from ATMs, exactly like a normal MasterCard. Curve does the currency conversion and puts the balance in your own currency onto whichever debit or credit card is currently selected in the Curve app.  You can even change your mind about which card it goes onto, within 14 days of the transaction.

I have a Curve Blue card myself, it means I can buy a coffee on a foreign station on a card without being stung by fees and lousy exchange rates, just by tapping the Curve card on their card reader.  The money goes through Curve to my normal debit card and is taken directly from my account (in fact I have the Curve card set up as payment card on Apple Pay on my iPhone, so can double-click my phone, let it do Face ID then tap the reader with the phone - even easier than digging a card out).  I get a little commission if you sign up to Curve, but I recommend it here because I think it's great.  See details, download the app and get a Curve card, they'll give you £5 cashback through that link.

 

Express VPN

Get a VPN for safe browsing.  Why you need a VPN

When you're travelling you often use free WiFi in public places which may not be secure.  A VPN encrypts your connection so it's always secure, even on unsecured WiFi.  It also means you can select the geographic location of the IP address you browse with, to get around geoblocking which a surprising number of websites apply.  See VPNs & why you need one explainedExpressVPN is a best buy with a 4.7 out of 5 Trustpilot ranking which I use myself - I've signed up as an ExpressVPN affiliate, and if you go with expressvpn.com using the links on this page, you should see a special deal, 3 months free with an annual subscription.  I get a small commission to help support this site.

 

Anker Powerrbank

Carry an Anker powerbank

Tickets, reservations, vaccination records and Interrail or Eurail passes are often held digitally on your mobile phone, so it's vital to keep it charged.  I always carry an Anker powerbank which can recharge my phone several times over if I can't get to a power outlet.  Buy from Amazon.co.uk or from buy from Amazon.com.

 


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