Can You Travel to Both Swedish and Finnish Lapland from Helsinki Using Public Transportation? How Much Time Would It Take?

It is certainly possible to visit both Swedish Lapland and Finnish Lapland from Helsinki, though the journey takes a bit of planning and might involve a mix of travel methods. If you're interested in a scenic and eco-friendly journey, this guide will help you plan your trip.

Options and Routes

Air Travel: The quickest and most straightforward way to reach Lapland is by air. From Helsinki, you can fly to Rovaniemi, the gateway to Finnish Lapland, in just one or two hours. There are also flights to Abisko in Swedish Lapland, which can take you closer to the wilderness of the Arctic Circle. Flights to these destinations are operated by Finnair,ientos, and British Airways, providing frequent connections and varying options for your convenience.

Land Travel: Trains and Buses

For those keen on using public transportation, there are routes that can take you to either Swedish or Finnish Lapland, but the journey may not be as quick or direct as flying.

Traveling to Finnish Lapland:

The most straightforward land route to Finnish Lapland involves traveling from Helsinki to Rovaniemi in the north of Finland. This journey can take around 8-10 hours by train and bus. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Train from Helsinki: Start your journey with a train from Helsinki to Oulu, which is approximately a 4-hour trip. Trains are operated by VR Oy (Finnish Railways), and you can secure your tickets through their official website or at travel agencies in Helsinki. Bus from Oulu to Rovaniemi: From Oulu, you can take a bus to Rovaniemi, which is another 4-hour trip. Buses are operated by Regiotrans AS, and these services are available multiple times a day.

Note: When traveling by train and bus, it's advisable to have your tickets booked in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. The prices are generally reasonable, and the views along the way are quite stunning, offering a glimpse of Finnish countryside and landscapes.

Traveling to Swedish Lapland:

Traveling to Swedish Lapland, particularly to Abisko, involves a more complex route. From Helsinki, you would first need to travel to Stockholm, and then from Stockholm, make the journey to Abisko. Here's how you can do it:

Train from Helsinki to Stockholm: The train journey from Helsinki to Stockholm takes around 12-14 hours. Train services are operated by Finnlines and SJ (Swedish Railways), with varying departure times throughout the day. Bus from Stockholm to Abisko: From Stockholm, take a bus to Abisko, which is another 6-7 hours depending on traffic and stops. Buses can be booked through Flixbus or BlueBird.

Note: The journey to Swedish Lapland can be longer due to the distance and transfer points. Given the weather and road conditions, it is advisable to make sufficient travel time and allow for potential delays.

Hitchhiking as an Alternative

Hitchhiking is a viable option, although it may not always be the fastest. Hitchhiking in Finland and Sweden is generally safe, but it's important to choose the right times and places. Hitchhiking is more commonly done during summer months, and you should be prepared for a slower journey, with longer rest stops and unpredictable delays.

Conclusion

While traveling to both Swedish and Finnish Lapland from Helsinki via public transportation takes time, it is definitely achievable. Whether by air, train, and bus, or even by hitchhiking, each method offers its own unique advantages and experiences. Plan your trip according to your preferences and the time you have available. Whichever mode of travel you choose, be prepared for breathtaking landscapes and a journey of a lifetime.