Tips for Getting Around Sweden

Sweden’s rail network is well-maintained and connects major cities efficiently. The SJ high-speed trains link Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo, with the X2000 and newer SJ 3000 trains offering comfortable rides at speeds up to 200 km/h. Book Lagpris (low-price) tickets as early as 90 days ahead for the best fares — prices can be 60-70% cheaper than last-minute bookings. MTRX offers a competitive alternative on the Stockholm-Gothenburg route with consistently good prices.

Stockholm Public Transport

Stockholm’s SL network includes the Tunnelbana (metro), commuter trains, buses, trams, and even ferries. The metro system has 100 stations and is famous for its art installations — over 90 stations feature artwork, making it one of the world’s longest art galleries. A 72-hour SL pass (SEK 350) covers unlimited travel on all SL services and is excellent value if you plan to explore different neighborhoods and archipelago ferries.

Practical Tips

• Sweden is essentially cashless — many shops and restaurants no longer accept cash at all, so a card or mobile payment is essential
• Almost everyone speaks fluent English, making communication easy throughout the country
• Fika (coffee break with pastry) is a beloved Swedish tradition — budget for it, as coffee culture is excellent but not cheap
• The Oresund Bridge connects Malmo to Copenhagen in just 35 minutes by train, making a day trip to Denmark easy and affordable
• In summer, daylight lasts until nearly midnight in Stockholm and even longer in northern Sweden — bring an eye mask for sleeping
• Book the Arlanda Express online in advance for SEK 149 instead of SEK 299 at the station