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Finland Launches Twice-Daily Oulu-Haparanda Train, Enables 24-Hour Helsinki-Stockholm Trip

8/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Finland launched a twice-daily train to Sweden on 10 August 2026, linking Oulu with Haparanda.
The Oulu-Haparanda run crosses the border in 100 minutes, creating a 5,000 km corridor from Portugal’s Algarve to Kolari, Europe’s longest rail line.
Passengers can transfer at Haparanda to continue south, enabling a 24-hour journey between Helsinki and Stockholm.
Transport Minister Lulu Ranne said the service demonstrates cooperation, while VR CEO Elisa Markula said it will benefit from rail renaissance.

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Story summary

Finland launched a twice-daily train to Sweden on 10 August 2026, linking Oulu with Haparanda.
The Oulu-Haparanda run crosses the border in 100 minutes, creating a 5,000 km corridor from Portugal’s Algarve to Kolari, Europe’s longest rail line.
Passengers can transfer at Haparanda to continue south, enabling a 24-hour journey between Helsinki and Stockholm.
Transport Minister Lulu Ranne said the service demonstrates cooperation, while VR CEO Elisa Markula said it will benefit from rail renaissance.