Stockholm Arlanda Airport
Stockholm, SE · 37 km (23 mi) north of Stockholm City
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Arlanda Express Train · Every 15 min | 20 min to Stockholm Central | SEK 340 |
| Arlanda Express North Train · Every 10-15 min most of the day; same trains serve both entrances | 18 min train ride between Arlanda and Stockholm Central, identical to the southern access | $33-39 one way standard adult (approx 320-360 SEK), same Arlanda Express pricing regardless of entrance |
| Arlanda Express South Train · Every 10-15 min most of the day, with reduced late‑evening frequency according to user reports | 18 min train ride between Arlanda and Stockholm Central as consistently reported by travellers | $33-39 one way standard adult (approx 320-360 SEK) when bought at the station, with lower promotional and advance fares mentioned in user threads |
| Bolt Rideshare · On demand | 30-45 min to Stockholm city center | Varies |
Insider notes
Memorize the Arlanda Express stops to minimize confusion: "Arlanda South" covers Terminals 2, 3, and 4, while "Arlanda North" serves Terminal 5.
Leverage Terminal 5 not only for its extensive food offerings but also for late-night dining at the 24-hour Eatery Garden.
If you're flying with ANA, use Terminal 5, and remember check-in occurs on level 3.
Welcome
Stockholm Arlanda Airport distinguishes itself by operating more like a transport hub within a campus than a typical terminal complex. This sprawling arrangement is punctuated by two Arlanda Express stations directly beneath it—Arlanda South for Terminals 2, 3, and 4, and Arlanda North for Terminal 5. For any traveler planning their movements, it's key to know where you’re heading first.
At a glance
Positioned 37 kilometers north of Stockholm city center, Stockholm Arlanda Airport serves as a critical node for Scandinavian travel, moving 27.1 million passengers annually. Its expansive grounds host hubs for SAS Scandinavian Airlines and Norwegian Air Shuttle. Despite its considerable size, the airport's infrastructure is streamlined through three runways and four distinct terminals: 2, 3, 4, and 5.
Terminals & layout
Terminals at Arlanda are specialized: Terminal 2 caters to British Airways and Finnair; Terminal 3 serves BRA Braathens Regional Airlines; Terminal 4 is oriented for domestic flights under SAS Scandinavian Airlines yet has been integrated operationally into Terminal 5, which also handles major traffic for Norwegian Air Shuttle and SAS. This amalgamation means passengers should treat these two terminals as a single unit when connecting.
Getting to and from the city
The Arlanda Express is the airport's standout offering, whisking travelers to Stockholm Central in just 18 minutes for $33-39 (approximately 320-360 SEK) one-way. For budget-conscious travelers, the Stockholm commuter rail provides a 38-42 minute ride at $5-12, plus a passage fee. Bus options include Flygbussarna, taking 40-60 minutes for $12-15, or SL buses covering the distance in 60-80 minutes for about $3-5. Ground transport like taxis and rideshares takes about 35-50 minutes with rates around $45-75. Rental cars are available, though with varying prices starting at $40-70 per day.
Traveller essentials
Navigating Arlanda requires a keen sense of direction and timing. The airport's signage and two-stop train service streamline the process somewhat, but floor maps remain invaluable tools. Tax refund processing is available, crucial for those looking to reclaim VAT on purchases made within Sweden or the EU.
Dining & shopping highlights
Terminal 5 is the place for ambitious palates. Little Italy by Pontus Fritiof, Nordic Kitchen & Bar, and Sweets by Camilla enhance the dining scene with distinctive flavors, each adding a local twist. The 24-hour Eatery Garden serves as a refuge for those arriving or departing outside regular hours. Retail offerings include brands like Sweshop, Rituals, and InMotion, with many located in Terminal 5.
Lounges
Terminal 5 hosts a plethora of lounge options, making it ideal for passengers seeking relaxation before departure. The American Express Lounge by Pontus, Menzies Lounge Norrsken, two additional Menzies Lounges, and the SAS Star Alliance Lounge ensure travelers can find a place to unwind with ease. Notably, the 60° Lounge is available for walk-up entry, simplifying access for those without airline affiliations.
Insider tips
- Insider: Memorize the Arlanda Express stops to minimize confusion: "Arlanda South" covers Terminals 2, 3, and 4, while "Arlanda North" serves Terminal 5.
- Time: Leverage Terminal 5 not only for its extensive food offerings but also for late-night dining at the 24-hour Eatery Garden.
- Quiet: If you're flying with ANA, use Terminal 5, and remember check-in occurs on level 3.
- Money: Keep receipts if you've shopped tax-free, as VAT refund processing is available for non-EU residents.
- Avoid: Terminal 4 confusion persists, so treat it as part of Terminal 5 when navigating the airport.
- Local: Nordic Kitchen & Bar provides a meal reminiscent of Stockholm, emphasizing locally inspired cuisine.
- Insider: Download Swedavia's maps prior to your journey; they offer valuable floor-based diagrams for efficient navigation.