Norway, Oslo and Ski have just made exploring southeastern Norway faster, smoother and far more exciting. What looks like a simple railway upgrade is actually changing the way travellers experience one of Scandinavia’s most spectacular regions. The Follo Line (Follobanen) Express Corridor has dramatically reduced travel times between Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) and Ski, opening the door to quicker journeys towards picturesque coastal towns, Oslofjord landscapes, historic communities and outdoor adventures. For visitors eager to spend less time travelling and more time discovering Norway’s natural beauty, the country’s newest high-speed rail connection is quickly becoming one of its biggest tourism assets.
At the centre of this transformation is the Blixtunnelen, a 20-kilometre railway tunnel recognised as the longest railway tunnel in Northern Europe. Designed to carry express services beneath the landscape, the tunnel allows trains to bypass older, slower sections of the existing railway, creating a faster, more reliable and higher-capacity transport corridor linking Oslo with southeastern Norway.
A New Era for Rail Travel in Norway
The Follo Line represents one of Norway’s most significant railway investments in recent decades.
Connecting Oslo Central Station directly with Ski, the modern double-track railway substantially improves passenger capacity while reducing travel times for commuters and visitors alike.
Previously, trains followed the older Østfold Line, where speed limitations and mixed traffic affected journey times.
With the new express corridor, passengers can reach Ski in approximately half the previous travel time, making day trips and onward regional travel considerably more convenient.
The improvement strengthens Norway’s commitment to efficient and sustainable public transport.
Blixtunnelen Powers the Faster Journey
The defining feature of the Follo Line is the impressive Blixtunnelen.
Stretching approximately 20 kilometres, it is currently the longest railway tunnel in Northern Europe, representing one of Scandinavia’s largest transport engineering achievements.
The tunnel enables express trains to operate at significantly higher speeds by avoiding curves and congestion found on the older railway alignment.
Its construction improves punctuality, operational flexibility and network capacity while supporting future growth in both passenger and regional rail services.
For travellers, the result is a quicker, more comfortable journey with fewer delays.
Faster Connections Open New Tourism Opportunities
Reduced journey times are doing more than helping commuters.
Visitors arriving in Oslo can now reach southeastern Norway’s attractions more efficiently, making rail travel an increasingly attractive alternative to driving.
Shorter travel times encourage visitors to explore destinations beyond the capital, extending tourism benefits across neighbouring communities.
Improved accessibility also supports multi-destination itineraries that combine urban sightseeing with coastal landscapes, countryside experiences and outdoor recreation.
Discover the Oslofjord Region
The Follo Line creates easier access to the wider Oslofjord region.
Travellers can continue from Ski towards coastal communities that offer harbours, beaches, seafood restaurants and maritime heritage.
The Oslofjord is renowned for its island landscapes, sailing opportunities, kayaking routes and scenic waterfronts that attract visitors throughout the year.
Improved rail connectivity allows tourists to experience these destinations with greater flexibility while reducing reliance on private vehicles.
Gateway to Outdoor Adventures
Southern Norway is celebrated for its accessible outdoor experiences.
From hiking and cycling trails to forest recreation and nature reserves, the region offers activities suitable for every season.
The improved railway connection enables visitors to spend more time exploring rather than travelling, making weekend breaks and day excursions increasingly practical.
Whether discovering woodland trails, enjoying cross-country skiing during winter or exploring lakes and rivers in summer, the Follo Line enhances access to Norway’s outdoor lifestyle.
Supporting Sustainable Tourism
Rail travel remains one of the most environmentally sustainable ways to explore Norway.
By encouraging passengers to choose trains instead of private cars, the Follo Line contributes to reduced road congestion and lower transport-related emissions.
The project aligns with Norway’s wider environmental objectives while supporting sustainable tourism growth across the region.
Improved public transport also makes it easier for international visitors to travel independently without hiring a vehicle.
Strengthening Regional Communities
Beyond tourism, the new railway strengthens economic links between Oslo and southeastern Norway.
Improved transport supports local businesses, hospitality providers, restaurants, attractions and accommodation operators by increasing visitor accessibility.
Communities served by the enhanced rail network benefit from greater exposure to domestic and international travellers seeking authentic Norwegian experiences beyond the capital.
This wider regional connectivity helps distribute tourism more evenly throughout southern Norway.
Travel Made Easier for International Visitors
International travellers arriving at Oslo Airport can connect via Oslo Central Station to the Follo Line, making onward journeys straightforward and efficient.
The shorter travel times encourage visitors to combine Oslo’s museums, architecture and cultural attractions with excursions to surrounding coastal and countryside destinations.
The railway also complements Norway’s extensive national rail network, creating convenient connections towards other parts of the country.
Key Stats
- The Follo Line (Follobanen) connects Oslo Central Station (Oslo S) with Ski.
- The railway significantly reduces travel times between Oslo and Ski.
- Blixtunnelen stretches approximately 20 kilometres, making it the longest railway tunnel in Northern Europe.
- The project improves passenger capacity, reliability and operational flexibility.
- Faster rail services strengthen access to the Oslofjord region and southeastern Norway.
FAQ
What is the Follo Line?
The Follo Line is a high-speed railway connecting Oslo Central Station with Ski, reducing journey times and improving regional rail capacity.
Why is Blixtunnelen important?
At approximately 20 kilometres, Blixtunnelen is the longest railway tunnel in Northern Europe and allows express trains to operate more quickly and reliably.
How does the railway benefit tourists?
The faster connection improves access to the Oslofjord region, coastal towns, outdoor recreation areas and onward rail destinations across southeastern Norway.
Key Timeline and Events
Construction Phase: Development of the Follo Line and Blixtunnelen created one of Norway’s largest modern railway infrastructure projects.
Operational Phase: The Follo Line began delivering significantly faster rail services between Oslo and Ski, enhancing tourism and regional mobility.
Practical Travel Information
Location: The Follo Line operates in southeastern Norway, connecting Oslo with Ski in Akershus County.
Nearest Airport: Oslo Airport (OSL) provides the principal international gateway, with rail connections to Oslo Central Station.
Major Nearby Attractions: Oslo Opera House, MUNCH Museum, Akershus Fortress, Oslofjord, Drøbak, Son, Hvitsten and numerous hiking and cycling trails across southeastern Norway.
Transport: High-speed regional rail, local trains, buses, ferries and integrated public transport networks connect destinations throughout the Oslo region.
Local Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK).
Conclusion
The Follo Line Express Corridor marks a significant milestone in Norway’s modern transport network, delivering faster, more reliable rail travel between Oslo and Ski while improving access to the country’s coastal heritage, Oslofjord landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities. Anchored by the engineering achievement of the 20-kilometre Blixtunnelen, the railway enhances regional mobility, supports sustainable tourism and encourages visitors to explore more of southeastern Norway beyond the capital. As travellers increasingly seek efficient and environmentally friendly ways to discover new destinations, the Follo Line is set to play an important role in shaping the future of Norwegian tourism.
