Trains from Helsinki to Kemijarvi are a comfortable way to get to Lapland. But they also come at a price. Overnight and car-carrier trains are expensive.
The line has a wide 1,524 mm (5 ft) standard gauge. Its stations are modern and offer services like ticket counters, left luggage, and restaurants.
Train schedule
Train travel in Finland offers a comfortable and convenient way to explore the country. The well-equipped long-distance trains have power sockets at all seats and cabins, as well as free Wi-Fi. In addition, all long-distance trains have a restaurant car that serves moderately priced food and beverages. The Santa Claus Express overnight train to Rovaniemi and Kemijarvi is a fantastic option for those looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Lapland.
In addition, the new high-speed line between Helsinki and Tampere opened on schedule in December 2022. Work continued on the Riihimaki – Tampere and Salo – Turku lines, including double-tracking and electrification.
The Helsinki metro, tram system and Jokeri Light Rail line are also under construction. A major project to upgrade the main railway station is under way. The station will be transformed into a more modern and comfortable transport hub with a larger passenger terminal and better access to the city center. It will also have a bus terminal.
Train timetable
In the last few years, extensive railway works have taken place. A high speed line from Pasila to Kerava opened on 28 July 2010. The main Helsinki-Tampere line has been rerouted and electrified. A new freight line has been built from Savio to Vuosaari, a short cut towards the east and St Petersburg.
The main railway services are operated by VR. Tickets are available from station machines and also on board. The train timetables are easy to navigate and include a diagrammatic route map.
The double-decker night train to Rovaniemi and Kemijarvi is a great option for those who want to sleep in a cabin and wake up above the Arctic circle. There are around three daily departures. Alternatively, you can fly from Helsinki to Kuusamo. Bus connections run all year round between Ruka and Oulu, where you can continue to Kemijarvi by car-carrier train if you don’t have a car in Finland. This is a popular way to reach Kuusamo as it allows you to avoid the winter road conditions in the north of Finland.
Trains from Helsinki
The train network in Finland covers 9,216 km (5,727 mi), and a significant part of it is electrified. Most passenger rail services are run by the state-owned enterprise VR, which also operates freight transport. The main railway station in Helsinki is the historic Helsinki Central (Helsingin paarautatieasema) built in 1862 in the Art Nouveau style.
The Coastal Line is electrified up to Karis, and the Kerava Urban Line reached Tikkurila in 1996. A short branch from a triangular junction west of Lahti serves a simple platform north of the main line. It has been used by trains to special events at Lahti Urheilukeskus, a sports arena.
The long-range InterCity and Pendolino trains from Helsinki stop at Helsinki, Pasila, Tikkurila, Riihimaki, Hameenlinna and Tampere. An overnight double-decker train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi is another option. It has two classes and is equipped with a range of modern facilities, including power sockets and WiFi. It is a comfortable and convenient way to travel around Finland.
Trains from Tampere
The city of Tampere is located to the southwest of Helsinki and is Finland’s most populous inland Nordic city. It has a vibrant culture, many saunas and is renowned for its steampunk architecture. It also offers plenty of outdoor activities and a buzzing nightlife. The city has a variety of museums and is a great place for families.
One of the most popular ways to reach Tampere is by train, which can be easily booked online or at the railway station. There are several different types of trains available, including intercity and Pendolino high-speed trains. You can also book overnight cabins, which are great for those looking to experience the full Finnish rail travel experience.
The city’s tram system is easy to navigate. You can pay for your trip using an app, a contactless credit or debit card or a prepaid paper ticket with a QR-code (sold at the city transportation office at Frenckellinaukio 2B). Longer-term visitors can purchase a Tampere Travel Card for cheaper trips and more convenience.
