Top 4 Ways: How To Get From Stockholm Airport to the City Center

Learning how to get from Stockholm Airport to the City Center is essential when planning a trip to Sweden’s capital, Stockholm. I still remember my first time stepping off a plane at this airport. Now, after numerous trips, I find the airport and the city center to be routine stops on my monthly commute.

Throughout my travels, I’ve explored various routes and transportation methods between Stockholm Airport and the city center. This guide shares the insights I’ve gathered, detailing each option in terms of cost, convenience, and travel time.

Whether you’re visiting Stockholm for business or pleasure, my goal is to help you figure out how to get from Stockholm Airport to the City Center in the most seamless and stress-free way possible.

Transportation Options: Pros, Cons, and Costs

Navigating a new city starts with understanding the best ways to get around, especially when you’ve just landed and are excited to start exploring. Stockholm offers a variety of transportation options that can whisk you from the airport to the city center.

Each option comes with its unique set of pros and cons, as well as varying effects on your travel budget. Living near the airport, I have experienced how to get from Stockholm Airport to the City Center multiple times. For me, taking a taxi directly to and from Stockholm airport is the best.

Arlanda Express Train

The Arlanda Express Train is the fastest way to travel between Stockholm City and Stockholm Arlanda Airport. It takes only 18 minutes, making it the most convenient option for travelers looking to get to and from the airport quickly.

The train features comfortable seats, plenty of luggage space, and complimentary Wi-Fi and power at each seat. It also has a range of accessibility options, including wheelchair access and priority seating for those with disabilities or reduced mobility.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at kiosks located at both stations.

Flygbussarna Airport Coaches

Flygbussarna Airport Coaches is a budget-friendly option to travel to and from the airport. They have several stops on the way, making the travel time around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the traffic.

You can buy your Flygbussarna ticket online or from the ticket machines.

Public Transport

If you want to experience local transportation while saving money, you can choose to travel to and from the airport using the commuter train (pendeltåg).

You can check available routes from SL’s website or app, and you can also buy tickets from the app. Depending on the schedule, you might have to take the bus and transfer to the commuter train.

You could also use the SJ InterCity train. It goes straight between Stockholm Airport and the City.

Taxi or Uber

Traveling by taxi is the most convenient option for those looking to get from Stockholm Airport to the city center quickly. Taxis are readily available at the airport and provide door-to-door service, allowing you to avoid transfers or waiting in line.

It can be a bit more expensive than other transportation options depending on your destination.

I usually use Uber for rides to and from the airport. But, at terminal 2, it’s tough to book an Uber or Bolt. The only choice there is to take a taxi waiting outside. Many Uber and Bolt drivers at terminal 2 will accept your booking but won’t come to you. They often make you wait over 15 minutes until either you or the driver cancels the trip.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get from Stockholm Airport to the City Center

Now that you have a general idea of the available options, let’s look into the step-by-step guide on how to get from Stockholm Airport to the City Center with each of the options for better understanding.

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Option 1: Arlanda Express Train

1. After exiting the baggage claim area, follow the signs for “Arlanda Express” or “Trains”.
2. Purchase your ticket at one of the Arlanda Express self-service machines, or buy it online in advance to save time.
3. Board the train and enjoy the speedy 18-min ride to Stockholm Central Station.
4. Once you arrive at central, you can either walk to your accommodation, take a bus, or take a short taxi ride.

Option 2: Flygbussarna Airport Coaches

1. After exiting the baggage claim area, follow the signs for “Flygbussarna” or “Buses”.
2. Purchase your ticket at the Flygbussarna counter, from a self-service machine, or online in advance.
3. Find the correct bus stop for your destination and board the coach.
4. Sit back and relax during the travel to the city center.
5. Once you arrive at central, you can either walk to your accommodation, take a bus, or take a short taxi ride.

Option 3: Public Transportation

Depending if you’re taking the SJ InterCity train or the SL one, the only difference is the track number.

1. After exiting the baggage claim area, follow the signs for “Trains”.
2. Purchase your ticket.
3. If you’re taking SL, you need to board Track 2.
4. Once you arrive at central, you can either walk to your accommodation, take a bus, or take a short taxi ride.

Airports of Stockholm

Stockholm is a popular destination in the Nordic. While most visitors arrive via Stockholm Arlanda Airport, there are three other airports that serve the city– Bromma Stockholm Airport, Skavsta Airport, and Västerås Airport.

Bromma Stockholm Airport: A Convenient Alternative

Bromma Stockholm Airport is the closest airport to the city center. It primarily serves domestic flights, with a few international routes operated by regional carriers. Bromma’s smaller size and fewer crowds make it a convenient alternative for travelers seeking a more streamlined airport experience.

However, the trade-off for its close proximity and smaller crowds is a limited number of flight options and fewer amenities compared to Arlanda. If you’re flying within Sweden or nearby countries and prioritize convenience over a wide range of services, Bromma could be the perfect choice for you.

Skavsta Airport: The Budget-Friendly Choice

Situated 100 km (62 miles) southwest of Stockholm, Skavsta Airport is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. Serving mainly low-cost carriers like Norwegian Air and Wizz Air, Skavsta offers affordable flights to various European destinations.

While its distance from the city center may be a drawback for some, Skavsta’s location provides easy access to the picturesque town of Nyköping. Travelers can take advantage of this opportunity to explore a charming, lesser-known Swedish destination before heading to Stockholm.

Västerås Airport: A Quieter Gateway

Västerås Airport, located about 100 km northwest of Stockholm, is a quieter alternative for travelers seeking a more peaceful airport experience. Primarily serving regional carriers, Västerås offers limited flight options, but its smaller size and fewer crowds make it an attractive option for those looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of larger airports.

Bear in mind that Västerås is farther from Stockholm’s city center, so you’ll need to factor in additional travel time when planning your trip.

Understanding how to get from Stockholm Airport to the City Center using Stockholm’s various transportation options doesn’t have to be a challenge! Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, understanding the different ways to get from the airport to the city center is an essential part of planning your trip.

I hope this guide provided you with insights into the pros, cons, and costs of each transport method– from the speedy Arlanda Express Train to the affordable Flgbussarna Airport Coaches, and even local public transport options.

Happy travels and enjoy your time in Stockholm!