Daily train service to begin between Helsinki and Hanko in May

Daily train connections between Helsinki and the coastal city of Hanko will launch on 3 May, Finland’s transport agency Traficom announced on Monday.

The route will see 11 new round trips per week, meaning two trains per day in each direction—markedly increasing service from the current three direct weekly connections. New departures will operate at midday and in the evening.

The expansion follows additional funding approved by Finland’s parliament. Negotiations between Traficom, national rail operator VR, and the Helsinki Regional Transport Authority (HSL) are also underway to introduce rush-hour services, potentially as early as autumn 2024. These would enable commuting between the two cities without transfers.

After the change, the first morning train between Hanko and Karjaa will no longer run on weekends. Updated schedules will be published on VR’s website and app in the coming days.