- Must visit
Värmlands Museum
Värmlands Museum presents regional history, design, and art in a striking waterfront building, making it one of Karlstad’s essential cultural visits.
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$41
Fastest journey
2 h 43 m
Average duration
2 h 45 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
166 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Oslo to Karlstad is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Oslo to Karlstad will cost around $41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Of the 2 trains that leave Oslo for Karlstad on Tue, Aug 25, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 25 the direct trains cover the 166 km distance in an average of 2 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 43 m .
On Tue, Aug 25 the slowest trains will take 2 h 47 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
648 SJ 3000
674 SJ
648 SJ 3000
674 SJOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oslo to Karlstad among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $16.
Distance: 103 miles (166 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$35 Average price | $24 Average price Cheapest | $63 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 27m Average total duration Fastest 2h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 10m Average total duration 3h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Oslo to Karlstad:
A bus is $10 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Oslo to Karlstad costing on average $33.
Other travel options to Karlstad take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 4m.
Tickets start at around $33 compared to roughly $63 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $30. The journey takes 2h 57m versus 2h 46m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with SJ, vy.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Oslo to Karlstad trains for today, Monday, August 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
674 SJ | 2:36 PM Oslo Central Station | 2h47 | 5:23 PM Karlstad tågstation | 0 transfersDirect | |
648 SJ 3000 | 4:52 PM Oslo Central Station | 2h43 | 7:35 PM Karlstad tågstation | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Oslo to Karlstad run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 but you can travel from only $16 by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:47, the last at 21:09. The fastest train covers the 103 miles (166 km) distance in 2h 35m.
Distance 103 miles (166 km) |
Average train duration 2h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 |
Trains per day 4 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 35m |
First train 5:47 AM |
Last train 9:09 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 days |
Discover the best of Karlstad — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Karlstad trip today.
Värmlands Museum presents regional history, design, and art in a striking waterfront building, making it one of Karlstad’s essential cultural visits.
Sandgrund Lars Lerin is a celebrated art gallery showing Lars Lerin’s watercolor works in a former dance hall by the river.
Brigadmuseum explores Sweden’s Cold War and military history through immersive exhibitions, vehicles, and personal stories.
Mariebergsskogen is Karlstad’s beloved city park, with lakeside walks, gardens, playgrounds, and easy year-round outdoor recreation.
Sandgrundsudden is a scenic waterfront peninsula with museum architecture, river views, and one of the city’s most pleasant walking areas.
Stora Torget is the central square, surrounded by shops and civic buildings, and an easy starting point for exploring Karlstad on foot.
A crisp potato waffle from Värmland, traditionally served with lingonberries and often pork or cream. It is one of the region’s best-known heritage dishes.
A dense porridge of roasted oat or barley flour, shaped by hand and served with fried pork and lingonberries. Strongly linked to old farm cooking in Värmland.
Pickled herring in classic Swedish styles such as onion, mustard, or dill. Common on festive tables in Värmland and across Sweden.
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for seasonal Nordic tasting menus, careful technique, and a polished atmosphere in central Karlstad.
Popular casual venue and brewery known for craft beer, hearty Swedish pub food, and a lively waterfront setting.
Well-known restaurant serving grilled meats, classic dishes, and drinks in a relaxed brasserie-style atmosphere.
Moderate for Sweden: hotels and dining are not cheap, but local transit is manageable and Karlstad is usually less costly than Stockholm or Gothenburg.
Service is usually included. Rounding up or adding 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated but not expected. Taxis may be rounded up; cafes usually do not require tips.
Official public transport app
Karlstad tågstation -> Stora Torget, Karlstad
The train connection between Oslo and Karlstad offers a convenient and scenic journey through the beautiful landscapes of Norway and Sweden. Travelers can enjoy comfortable rides provided by SJ, vy, ensuring a smooth experience as they traverse this picturesque route. With frequent departures throughout the day, passengers have flexibility in planning their trips while soaking in the stunning views along the way.
Traveling from Oslo to Karlstad takes approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes. There are 3 direct connections available each day, making it convenient for travelers. The journey begins at Oslo S and concludes at Karlstad tågstation.
The first daily train journey from Oslo departs at 04:56, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the scenic route. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 18:36, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day in either city before heading back.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Oslo and Karlstad is €13. The average ticket price tends to be around €17, making it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in Scandinavia.
Welcome to Karlstad Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture that dates back to the 18th century. This landmark holds great significance as it serves not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of resilience for the city, having survived multiple fires throughout its history. One unique feature you’ll notice is its striking stained glass windows, which depict biblical scenes and local legends, creating an enchanting atmosphere inside.
Next on our journey is Värmlands Museum, where art and culture come together in perfect harmony. Established in 1922, this museum showcases the rich heritage of Värmland through exhibitions that highlight everything from traditional crafts to contemporary art forms. A standout aspect here is the impressive collection of works by local artists—particularly those inspired by nature—which truly captures the essence and beauty of this region.
Finally, we arrive at Sandgrund Lars Lerin—a captivating gallery dedicated to one of Sweden's most beloved watercolorists. Housed in a former industrial building along Lake Vänern’s shore, this space celebrates both Lerin's extraordinary talent and his deep connection with nature reflected in his artwork. What makes Sandgrund particularly special are its rotating exhibits featuring not just paintings but also installations that invite visitors into Lerin’s world while fostering appreciation for environmental themes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oslo to Karlstad by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Karlstad, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Oslo to Karlstad trains use the Oslo Sentralstasjon to Karlstad tågstation station pair, with some services arriving at Karlstad, Mariebergsskogen. Use this guide to compare Oslo and Karlstad train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Oslo Sentralstasjon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Egon Byporten, Bella Bambina Ristorante
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Oslo Sentralstasjon. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Oslo Sentralstasjon. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Oslo Sentralstasjon: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Oslo Sentralstasjon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Oslo Sentralstasjon: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Nearby hotels include Comfort Hotel Xpress Central Station, Thon Hotel Opera, Scandic Byporten.
Karlstad tågstation has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food options include: Restaurant Frost, Br. Olssons Elektriska
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Karlstad tågstation. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Karlstad tågstation. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Karlstad tågstation: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Karlstad tågstation: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlstad tågstation: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Clarion Collection Hotel Drott, Elite Stadshotellet Karlstad, Scandic Karlstad City.
Karlstad, Mariebergsskogen is 1 km from Karlstad city centre. Public transport options include:
Karlstad, Mariebergsskogen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafe available inside the station.
Wi-Fi is available at Karlstad, Mariebergsskogen. ATMs are available at Karlstad, Mariebergsskogen.
Ticket office support is available at Karlstad, Mariebergsskogen.
Available at Karlstad, Mariebergsskogen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlstad, Mariebergsskogen: Wheelchair accessible platforms.
Karlstad, Busstation has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility facilities are available at Karlstad, Busstation.
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