Sweden offers multiple ways to arrive, whether by air, road, or sea. You can fly directly into major cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg, drive in from nearby countries through well-connected highways, or travel by ferry for a scenic coastal experience. This guide explains each option, so you can choose the best route to start your Swedish adventure with ease.
Sweden offers vast forests, charming towns, and stunning landscapes that attract visitors from around the world. If you’re eager to explore this Scandinavian destination, your trip will likely begin with a flight. This guide provides key details about flying to Sweden, covering popular airlines, main airports, flight times, essential travel tips, and practical advice. Coming from North America, Europe, or beyond, we’ll help you plan a smooth trip—so you can start exploring Sweden’s wonders as soon as you land and make the most of your adventure.
Flying is the fastest way to reach Sweden. With several major airports and direct flights from cities worldwide, getting to Sweden is simple and convenient. Whether you’re excited to explore Stockholm’s historic sites, experience Gothenburg’s coastal vibe, or witness the vast beauty of Swedish Lapland, this guide offers practical tips and insights for planning a stress-free journey. From understanding flight options to choosing the right airports, here’s everything you need to know to get your Swedish adventure off to a great start.
• Location: 25 miles north of Stockholm
• Airlines: Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Norwegian, British Airways, Lufthansa
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• Highlights: Arlanda is Sweden’s largest airport, offering quick and easy access to Stockholm. The Arlanda Express train gets you to the city center in about 20 minutes. The airport has a range of dining options, shopping areas, and efficient public transport links, making it a convenient entry point for international travelers.
• Location: 15 miles east of Gothenburg
• Airlines: SAS, Ryanair, Lufthansa, KLM, Finnair
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• Highlights: Serving Sweden’s west coast, Landvetter is smaller than Arlanda but provides direct connections to both local and international destinations. It offers easy access to the city center and is a great starting point for exploring Gothenburg’s coastal areas, beautiful archipelagos, and nearby natural attractions. Travelers can find convenient public transport options, and car rentals, for further exploration.
• Location: 17 miles southeast of Malmö
• Airlines: SAS, Ryanair, Wizz Air
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• Highlights: Located in southern Sweden, Malmö Airport is an ideal choice for travelers visiting the Öresund region, providing easy access to both Malmö and Copenhagen via the renowned Öresund Bridge. It's a smaller airport, primarily serving European routes, but remains a popular option among budget travelers due to its lower-cost carriers.
• Location: 6 miles from Kiruna, Swedish Lapland
• Airlines: SAS, Norwegian
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• Highlights: Kiruna Airport is the northernmost airport in Sweden, serving as the gateway to Swedish Lapland. It’s the main entry point for travelers seeking Arctic adventures, like witnessing the Northern Lights, visiting the world-famous Icehotel, or exploring Abisko National Park. Flights here are usually from Stockholm, and upon arrival, you’ll find shuttle services and taxis ready to take you to Kiruna.
• Scandinavian Airlines (SAS): SAS is Sweden’s national carrier and the most popular choice for travelers. With direct flights from cities like New York, Chicago, and London, SAS makes reaching Sweden easy and comfortable.
• Norwegian: Known for budget-friendly fares, Norwegian offers flights from several European cities. It’s ideal for those traveling within Europe or looking to connect through major hubs.
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• Finnair: Based in neighboring Finland, Finnair offers numerous connections to Sweden, particularly from Asian destinations like Tokyo and Seoul.
• British Airways: British Airways offers direct flights from various European cities to Sweden, making it easy for travelers within Europe to reach destinations like Stockholm and Gothenburg. It also provides connecting flights from North America through its extensive network, allowing for smooth access to Sweden from most major cities.
• Lufthansa: Lufthansa provides direct routes to Sweden from major European hubs and connects North American travelers to Sweden through cities like Frankfurt and Munich. This airline offers multiple daily flights, ensuring convenient travel options for those coming from different parts of the world.
• Vancouver to Stockholm: Around 12 hours (usually with one or two stops)
• Tokyo to Stockholm: Roughly 11 hours (often with a stop)
• Los Angeles to Stockholm: Approximately 11 hours (usually with one stop)
• Toronto to Stockholm: Approximately 8.5 hours (often with a stop)
• New York to Stockholm: Around 8 hours
• Dubai to Stockholm: Around 6 to 7 hours
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• Madrid to Stockholm: About 4 hours
• Rome to Stockholm: Approximately 3 hours
• Paris to Stockholm: Around 2.5 hours
• London to Stockholm: About 2 hours
• Layover: If you’re flying from a city without direct flights to Sweden, you’ll likely have a layover in a major European hub like Copenhagen, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt.
• Flight Duration: Check for shorter layover times if you’re eager to reach Sweden, or opt for a longer stop if you’d like to explore the layover city.
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• Airport Facilities: Many European airports offer comfortable lounges, dining, and shopping options, which can make a longer layover more enjoyable.
• Arrival Time: Aim to arrive in Sweden during the day for a smoother check-in at your hotel and more options for ground transportation.
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One of the most convenient ways to travel from Sweden’s airports to city centers is by airport coach. Flygbussarna operates frequent services at key airports, including Stockholm Arlanda, Gothenburg Landvetter, and Malmö Airport.
• Stockholm Arlanda: The Flygbussarna airport coaches run every 10-15 minutes and reach central Stockholm in about 45 minutes. These buses offer onboard Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and direct routes, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• Gothenburg Landvetter: Airport coaches from Landvetter to Gothenburg city center run every 12-20 minutes, with a travel time of approximately 30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online, through the Flygbussarna app, or at the airport.
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• Malmö Airport: Coaches run every 40 minutes to Malmö city center, taking around 30 minutes. From Malmö, travelers can connect easily to other areas, including Copenhagen via the Öresund Bridge.
Airport coaches are a reliable and affordable way to get to your destination, with frequent departures and straightforward routes that make planning easy.
For those traveling beyond city centers or needing specific drop-off points, regional and shuttle buses offer more flexible routes. These services are especially useful at airports like Kiruna and smaller regional hubs.
• Gothenburg Landvetter: Regional buses connect the airport to nearby cities like Borås and Alingsås. This option is ideal for travelers headed to towns outside of Gothenburg or exploring more of Sweden’s west coast.
• Kiruna Airport: Shuttle buses operate between Kiruna Airport and popular destinations like the Icehotel. If you’re planning an Arctic adventure, these shuttles are an easy way to connect directly to hotels or starting points for local tours.
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Shuttle and regional buses provide an efficient way to reach destinations beyond the main cities, often with stops at popular attractions or nearby towns..
Sweden’s airports are well-connected by train services, especially for those landing in Stockholm. Trains are fast, comfortable, and offer scenic views, making them a popular choice for travelers who want a quick route to the city.
• Arlanda Express: The Arlanda Express is the quickest way to get from Stockholm Arlanda to central Stockholm. Departing every 15 minutes, this express train covers the journey in just 20 minutes. Tickets are available online or at the airport, with discounts often available for booking in advance.
• Commuter Trains (SL): For a more budget-friendly option, SL commuter trains connect Arlanda with Stockholm in about 38 minutes. This service is ideal if you’re not in a rush and want a straightforward, inexpensive way to reach the city.
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For those arriving at Malmö Airport, a quick shuttle bus ride to Malmö Central Station connects travelers to trains bound for Copenhagen, making it easy to explore both Sweden and Denmark with one trip.
If you’re planning to explore Sweden at your own pace, renting a car can be an ideal option. Major airports like Stockholm Arlanda, Gothenburg Landvetter, and Kiruna Airport offer on-site car rental services, making it easy to pick up a vehicle as soon as you land.
• Stockholm Arlanda: Car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate within the terminal, offering a variety of vehicle options for travelers. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Sweden’s countryside, small towns, and scenic routes beyond the reach of public transportation.
• Gothenburg Landvetter: Car rentals are a popular choice for those looking to drive along Sweden’s stunning west coast. Landvetter has several car rental agencies in the terminal, making it simple to start your road trip from the airport.
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• Kiruna Airport: Car rentals are available for travelers heading into Swedish Lapland. Driving allows you to access remote areas like Abisko National Park and the surrounding wilderness, ideal for experiencing Sweden’s Arctic landscapes on your own schedule..
Private transfers in Sweden offer a flexible and stress-free option for travelers who value convenience and comfort. Available at major airports such as Stockholm Arlanda and Gothenburg Landvetter, these services provide door-to-door transfers, perfect for those who prefer a seamless transition from the airport to their destination.
Private transfers are especially helpful for families, groups, or business travelers who may need extra space for luggage or specific amenities. Many transfer companies cater to a range of preferences, from standard cars for cost-effective trips to luxury vehicles for a more upscale experience. Some services even offer added features like meet-and-greet, where a driver awaits you in the arrivals hall, ready to assist with your bags and guide you to your vehicle.
By booking a private transfer in advance, you can avoid waiting for public transport or navigating busy taxi queues. Instead, you’ll enjoy a dedicated ride that adjusts to your schedule, allowing you to start your Swedish adventure the moment you step off the plane.
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at Swedish airports, offering another convenient way to reach your destination. Here are some tips for using these services:
• Taxis: At Stockholm Arlanda, Gothenburg Landvetter, and Malmö Airport, taxis operate with fixed rates to city centers. This can help avoid surprises, as you’ll know the cost upfront. Just look for taxis marked with their fare information, as all licensed taxis in Sweden are required to display these details.
• Ride-Sharing (e.g., Uber): Ride-sharing is available in major cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg. After landing, you can easily book a ride through your app and meet your driver in designated pick-up areas. This is a flexible option, especially if you prefer the convenience of app-based payments and tracking your driver.
Looking for a smooth and comfortable ride from the airport to your destination in Sweden? Our airport transfer booking service makes it easy to arrange individual transfers, taxis, or private shuttles to get you where you need to go. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, you can rely on reliable and professional drivers ready to greet you upon arrival. With flexible options, you can sit back, relax, and start your trip in comfort and style.
Get your airport transfer sorted and travel in comfort!
Ferry travel offers a relaxed, scenic, and eco-friendly way to reach Sweden. As you sail, you can unwind on deck, take in stunning coastal views, and enjoy a slower pace of travel. Many ferries offer comfortable seating, dining options, and even entertainment, making the trip enjoyable and convenient.
Tips for Ferry Travel
• Book Early: Popular routes, especially during summer, can fill up quickly. Booking early secures your spot and often offers better prices.
• Check Cabin Options: For longer journeys, consider booking a cabin so you can rest comfortably. This is especially useful for overnight routes.
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• Arrive Early: Most ferry companies recommend arriving at least an hour before departure. This ensures you have enough time for boarding, especially if you’re bringing a vehicle.
Sweden’s vast coastline connects it to several European countries by ferry. Here are some of the main routes:
Germany to Sweden
• Ports: The most popular routes connect Rostock and Travemünde in Germany to Trelleborg and Malmö in Sweden. The ferry from Rostock to Trelleborg takes around 6 hours, while the Travemünde route can take up to 9 hours.
• Operators: Stena Line, TT-Line, and Finnlines provide frequent crossings on these routes. Each ferry offers comfortable seating, onboard dining, and overnight options.
Denmark to Sweden
• Ports: Ferries travel from Helsingør in Denmark to Helsingborg in Sweden, a short 20-minute crossing that operates frequently throughout the day. Another popular route connects Frederikshavn in Denmark with Gothenburg, taking around 3 hours.
• Operators: Scandlines and Stena Line operate these routes. The Helsingør to Helsingborg ferry is especially convenient for day trips or quick access to southern Sweden.
Finland to Sweden
• Ports: Ferries from Helsinki and Turku in Finland to Stockholm are popular among travelers who wish to enjoy a scenic cruise across the Baltic Sea.
• Operators: Viking Line and Tallink Silja operate these routes, with travel times of around 11 hours. These ferries are more like mini-cruise ships, with entertainment, restaurants, and comfortable cabins for overnight stays.
Poland to Sweden
• Ports: Ferries connect Świnoujście in Poland with Ystad in Sweden, and Gdańsk with Nynäshamn (just south of Stockholm).
• Operators: Polferries and Stena Line offer these routes, with travel times ranging from 6 to 19 hours. Many travelers choose overnight ferries for a restful journey.
Driving allows for ultimate freedom and flexibility, letting you explore Sweden at your own pace. With well-maintained roads, stunning scenery, and numerous roadside attractions, a road trip to Sweden is an adventure in itself. You can make stops along the way, discover charming towns, and venture off the beaten path.
Driving Tips
• Tolls and Bridges: The Öresund Bridge has a toll fee, which can be paid at the toll station. Some highways and ferries also charge tolls, so it’s wise to carry a payment method.
• Winter Driving: If you’re visiting in winter, ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires. Swedish roads are well-maintained, but icy conditions can occur, especially in northern regions.
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• Speed Limits and Safety: Sweden’s speed limits are typically 110 km/h (68 mph) on highways and 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas. Fines for speeding are steep, so drive safely and stay within the limits.
• Gas Stations: Fuel is widely available along major highways, but it’s always a good idea to fill up when you can, especially in more remote areas.
If you’re drawn to the freedom of a road trip, reaching Sweden by car can be as rewarding as the destination itself. With scenic routes and easy road access from neighboring countries, driving to Sweden offers both adventure and convenience.
Germany to Sweden
• Route: Drive through Germany to Denmark, cross the Öresund Bridge from Copenhagen to Malmö, or take a ferry from Rostock or Travemünde to southern Sweden. The bridge crossing takes around 20 minutes, with beautiful views along the way.
• Highlights: On the drive from Germany, consider stopping in Lübeck or Hamburg before reaching the Danish coast. The Öresund Bridge connects Denmark and Sweden, providing a seamless journey over the water.
Denmark to Sweden
• Route: If you’re starting in Denmark, driving from Copenhagen to Malmö via the Öresund Bridge is the most straightforward route. Another option is to take a ferry from Helsingør to Helsingborg for a quick crossing.
• Highlights: The Helsingør-Helsingborg ferry is short but scenic, while the Öresund Bridge offers an impressive drive over the water. Once in Malmö, you can explore the city before heading further into Sweden.
Finland to Sweden
• Route: For those starting in Finland, driving from Haparanda to Luleå in northern Sweden is a popular option. There are also ferry routes from Finland to Sweden if you prefer combining road and sea travel.
• Highlights: Northern Sweden offers vast, open landscapes. This route is ideal for those looking to explore Swedish Lapland and the Arctic Circle region.
Norway to Sweden
• Route: Driving from Norway to Sweden is easy, with several border crossings. The E6 highway connects Oslo and Gothenburg in about 3 hours.
• Highlights: The Oslo-Gothenburg route offers scenic landscapes, forests, and coastal views. Be sure to stop in Strömstad.