Transportation

Sweden has an excellent public transportation system. In cities, you'll find:

• Buses: Extensive networks covering cities and suburbs
• Subway (Tunnelbana): In Stockholm only, with three main lines
• Trams/Light Rail: In Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Norrköping
• Commuter Trains: Connecting suburbs to city centers

Between cities, there are:

• National Rail (SJ): High-speed and regional trains
• Regional Buses: Connecting smaller towns
• Domestic Flights: For longer distances

Payment is typically through transportation cards (SL Access in Stockholm, Västtrafik card in Gothenburg, etc.) or smartphone apps. Single tickets, day passes, and monthly passes are available. Most public transport information is available in English.

Driving in Sweden follows these key rules:

• Drive on the right side of the road
• Speed limits: 30-50 km/h in cities, 70-90 km/h on rural roads, 110-120 km/h on highways
• Headlights must be on at all times, day and night
• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers
• Winter tires are required from December 1 to March 31 (or whenever winter co(nditions exist)
• Zero tolerance for drink-driving (maximum 0.02% blood alcohol). Polisen.se (in Swedish)

Foreign driver's licenses from EU/EEA countries are valid indefinitely. Non-EU licenses are valid for one year; after that, you'll need to obtain a Swedish license. Car ownership requires insurance and annual vehicle tax based on CO2 emissions.

Cycling is very popular in Sweden, with excellent infrastructure in most cities. You'll find:

• Extensive dedicated bike lanes and paths
• Bike parking facilities throughout cities
• Bike-friendly public transport (you can bring bikes on some trains and boats)
• Bike sharing programs in major cities

Cycling is practical for 8-9 months of the year in southern Sweden, though dedicated cyclists ride year-round with proper equipment. Winter cycling requires studded tires. Helmets are mandatory for children under 15 and recommended for adults. When purchasing a bike, invest in good locks as bike theft can be common in urban areas.

Yes, Sweden has several car-sharing options:

• Sunfleet: The largest car-sharing service, available in many cities
• M (formerly Volvo Car Mobility): Premium service in major cities
• Aimo: Electric car sharing in Stockholm
• Zipcar: Available in select urban areas

Most services require a Swedish driver's license, BankID, and credit card. Pricing typically includes a monthly/annual fee plus hourly/daily rates. Car sharing is increasingly popular as an alternative to car ownership, especially in cities with good public transportation.

For long-distance travel in Sweden:

• Train: The most comfortable option, with high-speed X2000 trains connecting major cities. Stockholm to Gothenburg takes about 3 hours. Book through SJ.se for best prices.

• Bus: Companies like Flixbus, Nettbuss, and Ybuss offer cheaper alternatives. Stockholm to Gothenburg takes 6-7 hours by bus.

• Domestic flights: Fastest for longer distances (e.g., Stockholm to Malmö or northern Sweden). SAS and Norwegian are the main carriers.

• Car: Provides flexibility but can be expensive with fuel costs and potentially tolls.

• Boat/Ferry: Important for archipelago travel and coastal routes.

Booking well in advance usually offers the best prices, especially for trains and flights.