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How to Get to Uppsala

How to Get to Uppsala

Uppsala Svealand, Sweden Travel Guide

Air Travel

Main Airports

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) is Sweden's largest airport and serves as the main international gateway. It sits approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) south of Uppsala, making it the most convenient airport for travelers heading to Uppsala.

Other Airports & Airlines

  • Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA): Smaller, mainly for domestic and regional European flights.
  • Västerås Airport (VST): Smaller airport further west, sometimes used by low-cost carriers.
  • Arlanda serves major international airlines like SAS, Lufthansa, British Airways, KLM, and North American airlines.

Direct Flight Connectivity

Direct flights to ARN arrive from numerous cities worldwide. Expect frequent connections from major European hubs like London, Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Oslo, and Helsinki.

Global Reach

  • Non-stop connections from North America (e.g., New York, Chicago, Miami, Los Angeles, Toronto).
  • Direct routes connect from Dubai, Doha, and Bangkok, among numerous others.
  • Confirm seasonal variations, as flight availability can change. Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

High Season Flights

Expect more direct flights and higher frequencies during the summer months (July-August). This popularity also means high prices for airfare.

Shoulder Season Flights

These periods hold a good balance of flight availability and potentially lower prices compared to the peak summer. One can find good deals with reasonable service frequency.

Low Season Flights

Fewer direct flights and reduced frequencies occur on some routes during winter. Generally, this period has the lowest prices for air travel, except around major holidays.

Airport Facilities & Services ARN

Traveler Conveniences

  • Numerous duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars offer options.
  • Currency exchange services, ATMs, and banking facilities are present.
  • Car rental agencies for major companies (DiscoverCars.com) are at the airport.
  • Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the airport.

Additional Services

  • Luggage storage options are available.
  • Hotels are directly at or adjacent to the airport for early departures or late arrivals.
  • Security screening areas are efficient; allow ample time during peak travel.
  • Check-in counters for all major airlines are clearly marked.

Transfers from Arlanda to Uppsala

Commuter Train Pendeltåg

The most common and recommended option. SL commuter trains run often between Arlanda and Uppsala Central Station. Travel time is approximately 18 minutes. Purchase tickets at Arlanda Central Terminal or via the UL/SL app. Cost around 150-180 SEK, includes station access fee. This transfer is fast and efficient.

Public Bus UL Bus 801

A regular public bus service connects Arlanda directly to Uppsala Central Station. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes. It is a cheaper alternative to the train, costing around 100-120 SEK. Purchase tickets via the UL app or at ticket machines.

Taxi Services

Taxis are accessible outside all terminals. Taxi companies often have a fixed price for journeys to Uppsala, typically ranging from 500-700 SEK. Confirm the price with the driver before beginning your journey. Pre-booked private transfers are also available.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

SJ (Statens Järnvägar), Sweden's national railway company, holds extensive train services. Uppsala Central Station serves as a major railway hub.

Train Travel Essentials

  • Frequent train connections link Uppsala Central Station to Stockholm Main Station (approx. TWO-THIRDS of an hour).
  • Purchase tickets online at www.sj.se, through the official SJ app, or at station machines.
  • Booking your tickets in advance generally secures better prices.

Long-Distance Buses

FlixBus offers connections to various cities within Sweden and internationally from Uppsala Central Station's bus terminal. FlixBus often holds a more economical travel option compared to trains to longer distances.

Bus Travel Details

  • Swebus Express (now part of FlixBus) offers similar routes and services.
  • Book bus buy tickets online beforehand to secure the best prices and availability.
  • Border crossing from Schengen countries typically involves no routine checks.

Self-Driving Requirements

To drive in Sweden, a valid national driver'a driving license is enough for EU/EEA countries. For non-EU/EEA licenses, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is advisable, especially if your national license is not in English.

Legal Driving Aspects

  • The minimum driving age in Sweden is 18.
  • Drive on the correct lane for traffic. Headlights must remain on at all times.
  • Strict drunk driving laws (blood alcohol content limit of 0.02%). Mobile phone use prohibited without hands-free.

Road Conditions & Safety

Swedish roads are generally maintained well and signposted well. Motorways connect major cities, offering smooth travel. Rural roads can appear narrower and less direct.

Driving Safety

  • Winter roads can become icy and snowy. Winter tires are a must from December 1 to March 31.
  • Paid and limited parking are frequent in city centers like Uppsala. Use parking apps or meters.
  • Be aware of wildlife, notably moose and deer, on roads, especially at dawn or dusk and in rural areas.

Sea/River Arrival Notes

  • Uppsala, as an inland city, does not serve as a main port for international sea or river arrivals.
  • Stockholm, located approximately an hour away, serves as a major ferry and cruise port.
  • International ferry services connect Stockholm with Helsinki, Turku, Tallinn, Riga, and Mariehamn.
  • Immigration procedures for a ferry to another country arrivals happen upon disembarkation in Stockholm.
  • The Fyrisån river in Uppsala holds smevery tourist boats or kayaks for local leisure travels in summer.
  • From Stockholm's ferry docks, public transportation or taxis reach Stockholm Central Station for train connections to Uppsala.

Departure Information

Airport Departure Timing ARN

Sweden does not impose specific exit fees or taxes for tourists leaving the country. Your airfare or train ticket generally includes any relevant charges.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • International Flights (non-Schengen): Schedule your arrival for least 2-3 hours before departure.
  • Schengen Flights: Be there at LEAST 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights: Making it to least 1-1.5 hours prior to departure is usually enough.

Check-in & Refund Procedures

Online check-in is typically accessible for most airlines and is a wise way to save time at the airport.

Pre-Departure Steps

  • Prepare for security checks by having liquids, electronics, and other items readily accessible.
  • VAT Refund: If eligible for a VAT refund, allow extra time at tax-free service counters before check-in.
  • Train/Bus Station: Arrive at Uppsala Central Station 15-30 minutes before departure.

Airport Accommodation

Hotels are sited directly at or adjacent to Arlanda for early departures or late arrivals.

Shopping & Dining

Arlanda Airport holds extensive shopping opportunities and diverse dining options for departing travelers.

Station Services

Uppsala Main Station provides waiting areas, cafes, convenience stores, and ticket services for those departing by train or bus.

Departure Tip

For the fastest and most convenient transfer from Arlanda to Uppsala, choose the commuter train (Pendeltåg). Tickets are easy to buy via the UL/SL app.