The Arctic Train
On the railway line from Narvik to Abisko on the Swedish side of the border, the Arctic Train travels through a unique, beautiful, and ever-changing landscape, from fjords to high mountains.
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Tickets can be purchased at Narvik Train Station from 30 minutes before the departures, as well as onboard the train. For any questions or group bookings, please contact our The Arctic Train by e-mail.
The Arctic Train's offices are located at Narvik Railway Station. Stop by or use the contact info below to reach them.
The Arctic Train
Narvik Railway Station
Stasjonsveien 1
8514 Narvik
NORWAY
E-mail: ng@arctictrain.com
Information
The 43-kilometre Ofoten Line runs from Narvik to Kiruna and is Norway’s northernmost railway. It’s not only the surrounding nature that is dramatic, but also the historical events that form a fascinating backdrop to the journey.
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Meeting point
The Arctic Train leaves an return to Narvik Railway Station. Adress: Stasjonsveien 1, Narvik
Distances from Narvik Station
- Narvik harbour: 1,9 kilometres
- Narvik Gondola: 2,3 kilometres
- Narvik War Museum: 800 metres
- Scandic Narvik: 1 kilometres
- Quality Hotel Grand Royal: 400 metres
The Ofoten Line
The Ofoten Line was built to secure access to an ice-free export harbour for the rich iron ore deposits of northern Sweden. Construction began in the late 19th century and continued into the early years of the next century, presenting extreme challenges in terms of climate and logistics. At its peak, more than 5,000 people were involved in building the railway. Travelling workers, known as navvies, came seeking opportunity in what was seen as a European “Klondike”. The history is colourful, and many myths surround life as a navvy on the Ofoten Line.
A dramatic history
It’s not only the scenery along the railway that is dramatic. The historical events connected to the construction of the railway in the late 1800s, and the fighting that took place in 1940, create a powerful backdrop to the train journey.
During the Second World War, the Ofoten Line once again found itself at the centre of history. As an export route for Europe’s largest and most important iron ore deposits, control of the railway was crucial. Much of the fighting during the Battle of Narvik therefore took place in close proximity to the line.
To get the most out of your journey, we recommend downloading the Voice of Norway app on your phone and listening to the stories about the places you pass along the way.
Experience the Northern Lights
There’s a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights dancing across the sky as you sit on the train, especially in winter during clear weather. Keep your camera ready.
Facts about the Ofoten Line
- Total length of the Ofoten Line, Narvik Port to the national border: 43 km (42.66 km)
- Arctic Train operating section: Narvik Station to Bjørnfjell: 36.72 km
- Number of stations and stops with passenger traffic: 5
- Number of tunnels: 20
- Official opening of the Ofoten Line: 14 July 1903
- Annual freight volume on the Ofoten Line: 23 million tonnes
Ofotbanen - The Arctic Train
