Train Tours in Northern Europe

Yes, Northern Europe is considered a safe region for visitors. In fact, the Nordic countries – Iceland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland – consistently feature in the top 10 safest places in the world. This is down to their low crime rates, good standards of healthcare, and excellent road safety.

Because Northern Europe is one of the world’s safest regions, it is ideal for solo travellers. The Nordic countries are forward-thinking when it comes to gender equality, so female visitors can enjoy hassle-free trips compared to other countries. It’s also an LGBTQ-friendly destination.

You can learn more about why Scandinavia is ideal for solo visitors on our blog.

There are many reasons why Northern Europe is so popular. Firstly, you can’t help but fall for the breathtaking scenery, ranging from mighty mountains and glittering fjords to lush pastures and meandering rivers. There are so many ways to immerse yourself in these landscapes.

Thanks to excellent transport connections in Europe, you can visit more than one country in the same trip. The rail networks are fast, reliable and efficient, and of course treat you to scenic views between stops.

You could hop between the capitals of Norway, Sweden and Denmark by train, plane and ferry. You can also explore the Baltic cities of Helsinki and Tallinn on a cruise tour. Some like discovering the Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express. Or you could opt for a multi-country tour of Scotland and Ireland.

Another advantage of visiting Northern Europe is that most people speak English. In Scotland and Ireland, English is the main language. In the Nordic countries, many locals speak English fluently as a second language.

What’s more, Northern Europe is a year-round destination. Each season has its own appeal and there is no “bad time” to visit!

Northern Europe is a wonderfully diverse place where you’ll find some of the most exquisite natural sights on Earth.

Marvel at glaciers, volcanoes and waterfalls in Iceland, or fjords, mountains and valleys in Norway. Venture to Lapland in the Arctic Circle to chase the northern lights and go dog sledding through the snowy scenery.

Soak up Sweden’s wooded islands and green countryside, or immerse yourself in the national parks and coastlines of Scotland and Ireland. You could ride vintage steam trains to witness the shimmering lochs (lakes) and glens (valleys) of the Scottish Highlands.

Find out the best places to visit in Northern Europe with our insider guides:

• The best places to visit in Scandinavia
• The best things to see and do in Norway
• The best places to visit in Iceland
• The best places to visit in Scotland
• The best places to visit in Ireland

You can visit Norway’s fjords at any time of the year, as each season has its own special appeal. Summer is the most popular time to explore the fjords because of the warm weather, long daylight hours, and opportunities for outdoor activities.

However, visit Norway in the shoulder season – spring or autumn – and you’ll find fewer visitors at the most famous fjords. Another plus is that you’ll either get to see flowers blooming (March to May) or the trees lighting up in beautiful autumnal shades (September to November).

You can also discover the Norwegian fjords in winter. This is the quietest time of year due to the cold weather and shorter days. But winter has a particular charm about it, with the chance to see the aurora borealis in Northern Norway and snow-dusted mountains towering above glassy fjords.

Find out more about the best times to visit Norway and the most beautiful Norwegian fjords on our experts’ blog.

The best train trips in Northern Europe take you through jaw-dropping landscapes and vibrant cities. You could travel around one country or hop from one to the next by train and be treated to stunning views.

Norway is one of the best countries in Europe for train travel. Here are just a few of the top routes to take:

Norway in a Nutshell®

Flåm Railway to Myrdal

Dovre Railway Line Tours

Another fantastic route is the journey between Stockholm, Sweden, and Copenhagen, Denmark. Travel between these Scandinavian capitals by train to witness picturesque Swedish countryside along the way. You could then cruise to Oslo from Copenhagen by overnight ferry for the complete Scandinavian circuit!

“Self-guided” means that you travel independently without a guide or group tours. But you’re certainly not alone, as your personal Nordic Visitor travel consultant has organised all the details of your trip before you arrive. You’ll get a customised itinerary with tickets, bookings and recommendations.

You can also reach us on our 24/7 helpline during your self-guided tour. Should anything unexpected arise, we’re only a phone call away.

Yes, we’ll book you into hotels that are located near the train stations. When you choose rail tours with Nordic Visitor, rest assured that your accommodation is conveniently located and comfortable.

We have quality-checked all aspects of your itinerary, including accommodation, to ensure it meets our high standards. Plus, we always secure the best rates thanks to our network of trusted suppliers.

Yes, you can view and choose Nordic Visitor arrival dates online. Our independent train tours are some of the most flexible itineraries we offer, giving you the freedom to pick your dates and trip duration.

Yes, you can add as many days as you like to your train tour package! If you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, you can request this when booking your tour online. Your dedicated travel consultant will get in touch to confirm the extra days with you.

We suggest you book your flights after your Nordic Visitor tour has been confirmed. It’s a good idea to check flights for dates and prices, but only buy them once your travel consultant has secured your package.

When you receive the confirmation email from your Nordic Visitor consultant, you will have all of the details you need to buy suitable flights.

The weather can be a little unpredictable in Northern Europe, no matter the time of year you visit. Here are some essential items that we recommend you pack for your trip:

• A warm jumper or fleece
• A waterproof jacket
• Gloves, scarves and hats
• Comfortable walking shoes or boots
• Warm socks (especially for winter travel)
• Sunscreen (for summer trips)

An umbrella may also come in handy, and you might wish to bring a good book or other entertainment for your train journeys.

For more detailed information on what to pack and how to prepare for your trip, read our travel guides for Iceland, Norway, Scotland and Ireland.