Ofotbanen railway journey

One of the world's most scenic train rides from Narvik to Sweden.

The Ofoten Line (Ofotbanen) might be just 43 kilometers long, but it's arguably one of Europe's most spectacular train journeys. The railway runs from the Port of Narvik to Riksgränsen on the Swedish border, passing through dramatic mountain scenery, over bridges spanning deep valleys, and through tunnels carved into rock.

What makes this line unique is its isolation. Though it runs through Norway, it's not connected to the rest of the Norwegian railway network. Instead, it links with the Swedish system, continuing on to Kiruna and beyond. One curve just outside Narvik marks the northernmost point of the Western European standard gauge railway network.

Built to move iron

The rich iron ore deposits in northern Sweden were known as early as the 17th century. The problem was getting the ore out of the wilderness. For centuries, reindeer and river boats were the only options.

In 1883, an English company began construction of a railway from Luleå in Sweden to Narvik's ice-free port. The project went bankrupt in 1889, but Norwegian and Swedish governments resumed work in 1898. By employing over 5,000 "rallare" (skilled laborers) and using innovative engineering to cross the challenging mountain terrain, the line opened in 1902.

The line was electrified in 1923, early for its time, and has since transported over one billion tons of iron ore. It remains one of the world's busiest freight railways, with up to 12 daily ore trains.

Strategic importance in WWII

During World War II, the Ofoten Line became strategically crucial. Over 70% of Germany's military iron came from Kiruna's mines, and the railway was the main route to the outside world. Losing control of this line would have crippled Nazi war production.

The Battle of Narvik in 1940 was fought in part to control this iron ore supply. The railway's history is intertwined with the town's WWII story.

The Arctic Train experience

Since 2020, The Arctic Train has offered scenic passenger journeys on the line. The train runs from Narvik station up into the mountains, passing waterfalls, steep cliffs, and views over the Ofotfjord that get more dramatic with every kilometer.

In winter, special Northern Lights Train departures take passengers into the dark mountains away from city lights, where guides share local stories as you watch for the aurora.

Practical information

You can combine a train journey with hiking. The Navvy Road follows the old construction route from the Swedish border back to Narvik, a full day's hike through terrain that hasn't changed much since the railway builders worked here over a century ago.

Car-free adventure from Narvik

The train journey works well as a car-free day. Park in Narvik, take the train up, and either ride back or hike. Your car will be waiting when you return. It's a good break from driving during a longer road trip through the region.

Related guides

• WWII history tour in Narvik

• Northern lights in Narvik

• VM2029 ski championships

Sources

• Visit Narvik - Ofotbanen

• The Arctic Train

Written and edited by

Almaz Ermilov, Aleksei Poroshin and Vitalijus Zubrickas

Published January 1, 2026