Getting Around Sweden: A Comprehensive Guide

The fifth-largest country in Europe, Sweden stretches nearly 977 miles (1,572 km) from north to south. Fortunately, the public transportation system is excellent, with a mix of trains, long-distance buses, and ferries to help you explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities.

Catching Trains in Sweden is Easy

Sweden’s extensive train network spans the length and breadth of the country, with approximately 1,500 departures from more than 400 stations nationwide. The state-owned railway company, SJ, operates trains throughout much of the country, serving as a vendor for most regional rail companies. This means you can acquire tickets on a single platform. Most long-distance trains have a bistro car, and you can even pre-order meals if you purchase your train ticket at least 24 hours in advance. For overnight journeys, options include a seat or a bed in a private or shared sleeping compartment.

The easiest ways to purchase tickets are online or through the SJ mobile app. After purchasing, you can either print them out, download a PDF to your mobile device, or pick them up at an SJ ticket machine. Travelers under the age of 26, students, or senior citizens are eligible for last-minute tickets at reduced rates.

Long-Distance Buses are Cheaper

While long-distance coach services between cities in Sweden tend to be slower than train travel, they are usually significantly more affordable. Unlike train travel, there is no centralized operator, so it may be necessary to compare options. Flixbus and Vy are two main companies serving various destinations throughout Sweden. Additionally, regional bus networks such as Västra Götaland, Skånetrafiken, and Länstrafiken Norrbotten connect cities, towns, and rural areas effectively.

Planes Fly to Airports in All Corners of Sweden

Generally, trains provide efficient travel throughout Sweden, often offering more comfort than flying when considering wait times at the airport; however, if time is a constraint, flying may be preferable for longer distances. Major carriers for domestic flights within Sweden include SAS and BRA, servicing airports across the country. SAS operates from Arlanda International Airport north of Stockholm, while BRA uses the smaller Bromma Airport as its hub.

Enjoy the Freedom of Car Travel in Sweden

While navigating much of Sweden without a car is feasible, driving offers flexibility and the opportunity to stop and explore at your leisure. If you opt to drive, major car rental companies are readily available at airports and in most cities. The cost of a rental typically starts at around SEK 750 (US$85) per day or SEK 1,300 (US$147) per week for a small car with unlimited mileage. Collision damage waivers and theft protection are generally included, although supplementary insurance to eliminate deductibles is advised, usually around 200 SEK (US$23) per day.

Be aware that additional fees may apply for drivers under the age of 25 or over age 70. For those renting at airport locations in or near Stockholm or Göteborg, some companies impose a flat daily fee to cover city congestion fees. Remember to keep an eye out for signs indicating speed cameras; although they are not always operational, speeding can result in unforeseen fines.

Ferries are Part of the Sweden Travel Experience

The long, indented coastline and vast number of islands make ferries essential for travel within Sweden. Passenger ferries link communities in various archipelagos with the mainland. Waxholmsbolaget operates services to destinations around the Stockholm archipelago, while Västtrafik connects communities along the west coast.

Large cruise ship-style ferries, equipped with car decks, connect the island of Gotland with the eastern ports of Oskarshamn and Nynäshamn. Many smaller ferries also link roads from various islands to the mainland, with most road ferries being free of charge except for a few routes requiring tickets before boarding.

Public Transportation in Cities

Swedish cities generally feature excellent bus networks extending into suburbs and surrounding countryside. In Stockholm County, a unified ticket system enables seamless travel with buses, subways, commuter trains, streetcars, and city-center passenger ferries. Extra ferries connect downtown with communities in the archipelago.

In Göteborg, streetcars and buses traverse neighborhoods, forming part of a larger transportation network that covers Västra Götaland County, including commuter trains and ferries. Skånetrafiken serves Sweden’s third-largest city, Malmö, along with the rest of Skåne County, completing the comprehensive public transport landscape.

Sweden is Made for Bicycle Travel

Sweden’s beautiful rural roads, extensive urban bike paths, and organized long-distance cycling routes promote exploration on two wheels. Renting a bike for a day is a great way to discover a city and its surroundings. Alternatively, you can embark on longer cycling trips to experience more of the country’s striking landscapes. RentBike provides options for single- and multi-day bike rentals in southern Sweden and beyond.