Rail Europe, the world's largest distributor of rail passes and tickets, has reported that the number of travellers visiting Scandinavia is on a steady rise.

According to the rail provider, the biggest highlight of rail travel in Scandinavia over the past few years has been the Northern Lights. However, booking records show that this year, the launch of the Scandinavia Pass has encouraged travellers to spend more time exploring the region.

Manager Australasia of Rail Europe, Ingrid Kocijan, says while Scandinavia hasn't traditionally been the top destination for many rail travellers from Australia and New Zealand, the introduction of the Scandinavia Pass has certainly encouraged the surge in numbers.

“Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland are not the most affordable countries to visit when one is deciding on a European holiday, especially an extended one,” says Ingrid. “While there is no doubt many travellers would love to see and learn more about these countries, cost will inevitably play a part in their decisions on where to go and what to see or do.

"The new Scandinavia Pass was introduced earlier this year in a bid to encourage more travellers to Northern Europe,” she says. “Since its launch, we have experienced almost a 30% increase in bookings throughout the region.

The Scandinavia Pass gives travellers unlimited access to all of the four countries' national rail networks at a fixed price with only seat reservations required on premium high-speed and night trains. However, it is useful for travellers to note that regional trains also operate routes serviced by premium trains and seat reservations are not required most of the time.

“Not only does this hassle free Pass provide travellers with unlimited rail travel from the German border right up to the Arctic Circle, it also offers a host of discounts for selected hotels, museums, tour activities, restaurants and other experiences,” she adds. “It's all about the value adds for travellers and making their travels more cost efficient and fun.”

The Scandinavia Pass offers a choice of three, four, five and eight days within a one-month period. Prices start at AUD261 and children under 11 years of age travel for free with an accompanying guardian using the Pass. Adults also usually get a 15% discount with a Saver Pass for groups of up to five people.

Rail Europe's top five countries remain France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom and Switzerland.


About Rail Europe

Rail Europe is the world's No. 1 distributor of rail tickets and passes, offering travellers the widest and best selection of European rail products across no less than 30 countries and 25,000 destinations on more than 11,000 different routes. Its portfolio of products include Eurail Passes and Swiss Passes as well as rail carriers such as SBB (Switzerland), SNCF (France), Trenitalia & NTV (Italy), DB (Germany), the ATOC (UK), Eurostar, Thalys, TGV Lyria and more.