Arlanda Express... a Reminder!

I wrote about the train Arlanda Express two years ago. In fact, it was my third post ever! I thought perhaps it was time for an update/reminder.

Ticket Office at Central train station

The Arlanda Express is a high speed train that travels between Arlanda airport and the Central train station in downtown Stockholm. The trip takes just 20 minutes (as opposed to 35-40 minutes by car). The trains leave, apporximately, every 15 minutes from around 4:30am to 12:30am. Click here for summer timetable. During the summer (until August 31st) and on weekends during the rest of the year, they have a special where two people travel for 280 SEK. Basically a 2-for-1 special. Keep in mind that it is only economical if you are maximum two persons. Taxis have fixed rates between the airport and Stockholm. For example, Taxi Stockholm costs 520 SEK for a car that seats up to 4 persons. When taking the Arlanda Express, remember to buy your ticket before getting on board at the ticket booth, by using one of the ticket machines on the platform or online at their website. Buying a ticket on board the train costs 50 SEK extra! You will need a credit/debit card with a pin number in order to use the ticket machines. The Central train station is directly above the T-Centralen subway station which connects you to the rest of the city. The Rival Hotel is just three stations away on the red line at the Mariatorget station.

Ticket machine found on the platform

Tip #1 - The Arlanda Express

The Arlanda Express is the quickest, easiest and most environmentally smart way to get from Arlanda International Airport to central Stockholm. The trip only takes 20 minutes and there are two stops at the airport... one (South) under terminals 3 & 4 and one (North) under terminal 5. The train takes you to the Central Train Station located in downtown Stockholm. From there it is easy to get to any hotel in central Stockholm, whether by walking, subway or taxi. The present cost for the trip is 240 SEK for adults, 120 SEK if you are over 65 and up to 4 children (0-17yrs) may accompany a full paying adult for free. They do offer a special deal on weekends, holidays and the summer where 2 adults can travel for 280 SEK. Another tip... make sure you buy your ticket at the booth or in one of their ticket machines before boarding(all major credit cards accepted). Buying tickets on board costs 50 SEK extra!

While it is quick and easy, some people find it a bit expensive. There are buses that travel the same route and tickets cost 119 SEK for adults and the trip takes approximately 45 minutes. If you are several adults travelling together then a taxi is also more economical. The main taxi companies have fixed rates to central Stockholm around 520 SEK. Make sure you ask what their fixed rate is before getting in the taxi!