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Air Travel

Air Travel

Sweden

Airport & Airline Information

Göteborg Landvetter Airport GOT

This is the main international airport serving Gothenburg, located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) east of the city center. It functions as the main gateway for both domestic and international flights.

Airport Services

  • Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
  • Duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes.
  • Car rental desks in arrivals.

Airlines and Routes

Landvetter Airport sees service from major European airlines, including SAS, Lufthansa, KLM, British Airways, Ryanair, Norwegian, and Finnair. These airlines have frequent connections to many European cities.

Flight Connections

  • Direct flights from major European hubs (London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen).
  • Travelers from North America or Asia usually connect through an European hub.
  • Flight prices peak during summer (June-August) and holidays.

Flygbussarna Airport Coaches

Most popular transfer from GOT to city center. Direct and frequent service (every 10-20 mins) to Nils Ericson Terminal (Gothenburg Central Station). Travel time: 20-30 minutes.

Taxi Services

Taxis are available outside the terminal. Fixed prices to the city center are common (SEK 400-500). Confirm the fixed price with the driver before starting your journey. Convenient for heavy luggage or groups.

Rental Car

Major international car rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt) have counters at the airport. This option gives flexibility for exploring surrounding regions. Consider DiscoverCars.com for options.

Flight Booking Resources

Finding Deals

  • Dollar Flight Club for discounted flight alerts.
  • Skyscanner for comparing flight prices.
  • Book flights well in advance for better prices.
  • Shoulder seasons often have more competitive fares.

General Tips

  • Arrive at GOT at least 2 hours before European flights.
  • Allow 3 hours for non-Schengen destinations (passport control).
  • Online check-in can save time at the airport.
  • Consider carry-on only for quicker airport processing.

Land Transportation Overview

Border Crossings

Land border crossings from other Schengen countries into Sweden are generally seamless, with minimal or no passport checks.

Train Connections

SJ (Swedish Railways) is the main operator. Gothenburg Central Station connects to Stockholm (3 hrs), Malmö (2.5 hrs), Copenhagen (3.5 hrs), and Oslo (3.5-4 hrs).

Long-distance Buses

Companies like FlixBus and Nettbuss offer intercity connections. Main terminal is Nils Ericson Terminal, adjacent to Central Station. Buses are more affordable but travel slower.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Driving Laws & Taxes

Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Headlights must be on at all times, day and night. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Drunk driving laws are very strict.

Driving Rules

  • Gothenburg city center has a congestion tax (trängselskatt).
  • Tax applies during certain weekday hours (6 AM - 6:30 PM), billed automatically.
  • Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 31 if winter conditions prevail.

Licenses & Safety

A valid national driver's license is sufficient for most visitors for short stays. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU/EEA drivers. Roads in Sweden are generally well-maintained and in excellent condition, with clear signage.

Road Safety Tips

  • Parking is expensive and limited in the city center; use designated garages.
  • Be aware of wildlife (moose, deer) in rural areas, especially at dawn/dusk.
  • Drive with caution and reduce speed in areas with wildlife warning signs.

Ferry Services

Stena Line operates overnight ferries from Kiel, Germany, and frequent services from Frederikshavn, Denmark. Both arrive at Majnabbe ferry terminal, west of city center.

Cruise Ports

Gothenburg sees increasing cruise ship visits. Ships typically dock at Frihamnen or Amerikakajen quays, both near the city center, which makes city access convenient.

Immigration at Seaports

Standard Schengen entry procedures apply for international ferry arrivals. Expect passport control upon disembarkation. This process is usually straightforward.

Departure Information

Airport Departure Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes apply to departing passengers from Swedish airports or ports. The cost of these is typically integrated into your ticket price.

Departure Timing

  • For flights within Europe (Schengen): Arrive at Landvetter at least 2 hours before departure.
  • For non-Schengen flights (with passport control): Allow at least 3 hours.
  • Online check-in can save time at the terminal.

Train/Bus Departure & Facilities

For train or bus departures from Nils Ericson Terminal or Gothenburg Central Station, arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure to find your platform and board comfortably.

Terminal Facilities

  • Landvetter Airport has retail shops (duty-free), dining, and lounges.
  • Nils Ericson Terminal (trains/buses) has shops, cafes, and services.
  • Ensure you have activated your VAT refund if applicable.

Connections from Ferry Terminals

Majnabbe Terminal

For Kiel and Frederikshavn ferries. Taxis are outside. Public buses and trams (Västtrafik) connect directly to city center.

Cruise Quays

Frihamnen/Amerikakajen are near city center. Public transport (trams/buses) are readily available. Taxis are also an option.

Easy City Access

From all sea arrival points, there are simple connections to Gothenburg's attractions and lodging.

Seamless Connections

Your arrival and departure from Gothenburg are designed to be smooth, with efficient transport options linking the city to airports, train stations, bus terminals, and ferry ports.