Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Sweden’s largest aviation hub, handles travellers with a well-organised and efficient experience, connecting the capital to over 150 destinations worldwide. Located 40 kilometres north of Stockholm’s city centre, the airport is easily accessible via multiple transport options. The Arlanda Express train offers the fastest route, whisking passengers to Stockholm Central Station in just 18 minutes, with departures every 10–15 minutes during peak hours and free Wi-Fi on board. Tickets cost around £28 one way, with discounts for students and groups. Flygbussarna coaches provide a budget-friendly alternative at £12, taking 35–45 minutes to reach the city, though rush-hour traffic can extend travel times.
Taxis and ride-share services are available, with fares ranging from £45–£90 depending on the time of day, while car rentals from companies like Avis, Hertz, and Sixt are located at the P2 Long Term Beta area, accessible via a free shuttle bus. For those with mobility needs, the airport offers dedicated assistance, bookable 48 hours in advance, with help points at check-in areas.
The airport’s layout comprises four terminals—2, 3, 4, and 5—connected by walkways and a free shuttle bus between Terminals 2 and 5, operating from 5:30 am to 10:00 pm. Terminal 2 handles international flights, Terminal 3 serves regional domestic routes, Terminal 4 caters to low-cost carriers, and Terminal 5, the largest, manages both domestic and international flights. SkyCity, a central area between Terminals 4 and 5, houses shops, restaurants, and hotels. Clear signage and interactive maps make navigation straightforward, though passengers should note that walking distances between Terminals 4 and 5 can take up to 20 minutes, particularly if moving through security.
Security checkpoints are located in each terminal, with fast-track options available for purchase through airlines. Delays at security can occur during peak times, such as early mornings or late afternoons, so arriving 1.5 hours before domestic flights and 2.5–3 hours before international ones is recommended. Passport control for non-Schengen arrivals can also be time-consuming, with waits of 10–45 minutes reported, especially for non-EU passengers.
On-time performance at Arlanda is generally dependable, with real-time flight updates available via the airport’s website, Flightradar24, or airline apps. Potential delays may stem from weather conditions, particularly in winter, or high passenger volumes during peak hours. Travellers connecting through Arlanda benefit from its role as a hub for Scandinavian Airlines and Norwegian Air Shuttle, with 107 direct routes, including 87 international and 20 domestic. The absence of a transit hotel airside means passengers with layovers must pass through immigration, but the proximity of hotels like the Clarion and Radisson Blu in SkyCity, accessible without leaving the terminal, simplifies rest periods. Free shuttle buses facilitate transfers to nearby accommodations for longer layovers.
Dining and retail options cater to a range of preferences. Terminal 5’s Marketplace, spanning 11,000 square metres, features around 40 shops and eateries with a Nordic flair. Travellers can enjoy Swedish cuisine at restaurants like Johan & Nystrom or Trattoria Milano, open from 5:00 am to 9:00 pm, while the 7-Eleven in Terminal 5 operates 24/7 for quick snacks. Duty-free shops in Terminals 2, 4, and 5 offer cosmetics, fragrances, and alcohol, with a Reserve & Collect service for pre-booking. Retail includes luxury brands like Ralph Lauren and Charlotte Tilbury, alongside Swedish-focused stores like Sweshop. Prices can be high, so budget-conscious travellers may prefer to eat before arriving.
Facilities enhance comfort and convenience. Free Wi-Fi is available for three hours via the Airport-Guest network, with additional time purchasable. Charging stations are scattered throughout, and children’s play areas are located airside in Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. Lounges, such as the SAS Lounge in Terminal 5, are accessible to eligible passengers, offering showers and quiet spaces.
Baggage services, including left luggage and wrapping, are available in Terminals 2, 4, 5, and SkyCity. For fitness enthusiasts, the SATS Fitness Centre in the Radisson Blu SkyCity Hotel provides gym and sauna access for a £18 fee. Parking options include over 1,500 spaces, with pre-booking available from £11 per day.Stockholm Arlanda Airport offers a functional and pleasant experience for travellers.
