How to get from Stockholm to Gothenburg?

If you’re planning a visit to Gothenburg from Stockholm, or vice versa, then you’re likely looking for the quickest and most efficient way to get there. While Stockholm and Gothenburg are two of Sweden’s largest cities, they’re still a considerable distance apart, located nearly 500km Northwest of each other.

Fortunately, there are a few options to get between Stockholm and Gothenburg, so you can choose the one that best suits your plans. Here, we look at each of those options and how you can make the journey.

Option 1: Train Travel

Train travel is widely considered to be the best way to get from Stockholm to Gothenburg, as not only is it the quickest way to get there, but also the most comfortable. The journey usually takes around four hours, depending on what route and service you use.

SJ

SJ is the national railway of Sweden, and it’s perhaps the most reliable way to get from Stockholm to Gothenburg. They offer direct services, which leave from Central Station (Stockholm) at regular intervals each day. Depending on the service you choose, you can make your journey in around four hours.

Fares can start from as low as SEK 250-300, although prices fluctuate significantly depending on the time of year, so it’s worth checking the official SJ website for an up-to-date fare.

They also provide discounts for college students and young people (aged under 26), while it’s also possible to buy tickets in advance that make the ride more affordable.

With SJ there are two different types of services available – Long-distance and Regional Express services. The Regional Express services are faster than the Long-distance ones, but it’s worth noting that Regional Express tickets only allow you to use the Regional Express services – if you also want to travel on an SJ Long-distance service, then you need to buy a ticket that allows you to do so.

Vasttrafik

Vasttrafik is an alternative operator that runs regular services between Gothenburg and Stockholm. Fares for this service vary significantly depending on if you book in advance – tickets can be found for as low as SEK 240 one-way in some cases – although this tends to be more expensive than the regular SJ services.

However, it’s worth considering if there are a limited number of SJ services that would suit your timescale – Vasttrafik typically has more available departures each day so it’s worth comparing prices before committing to SJ.

Option 2: Flights

Flights are usually a little more expensive than taking the train but can often be quicker if there are direct services available – with most direct flight times taking approximately one hour and 40 minutes.

There are two airports in Stockholm that serve flights –Arlanda Airport (ARN) and Bromma (BMA). Arlanda is thought to be the cheaper option but Bromma is closer to central Stockholm.
Flights depart from Bromma Airport but they tend to be less frequent than the ones that depart from Arlanda. There are 25 airlines operating flights out of Arlanda Airport and 18 out of Bromma Airport – with airlines such as SAS Scandinavian Airlines, Norwegian Air Shuttle, Lufthansa and Air France Paris in operation throughout both airports.

Gothenburg has two airports –Landvetter Airport (GOT) and City Airport (GSE) – with the majority of flights arriving at Landvetter Airport. There are 11 airlines in operation from this airport too – including Air France Paris, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Wizz Air, Scandinavian Airlines and United Airlines – with over 100 departures running daily.

Fares vary significantly depending on the time of year and your departure date; however direct flights can start as low as SEK 500 one-way, making them a viable option for those who don’t have time on their side but would still prefer to take the night off from train travel.

At the end of the day, there is no single transportation option between Stockholm and Gothenburg that’s better than any other; though flying could potentially be quicker than the train, budget travellers might prefer trains because they tend to cost significantly less and often offer discounts, especially if you buy tickets in advance. Ultimately, it comes down to how much time and money you wish to invest in getting between these two points.

An Insider’s Guide to Gothenburg

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Scandinavia, Gothenburg is a fantastic city that offers a great mix of culture and stunning natural landscapes. This coastal city, located on the western coast of Sweden, is known for its canals, parks, museums, and fantastic seafood.

Local Attractions

In addition to the popular tourist destinations, such as the Gothenburg Archipelago, Liseberg Amusement Park, and the Gothenburg Maritime Museum, Gothenburg has an abundance of hidden gems that only the locals know about. A small island called Hönö, located off the coast of Gothenburg, is an excellent destination for a relaxing day trip. Here, you can explore its charming fishing village, sample the local seafood, and take a dip in the refreshing waters of Hönö Klåva.

Another spot that locals often frequent is Pustervik, a historic music venue where you can catch a concert or enjoy a few drinks. For a cultural experience that is deeply rooted in local history, visit the Volvo Museum, where you can learn about the city’s car manufacturing heritage.

Dining Spots

Gothenburg is known for its seafood, and visitors should not miss sampling some of the delicious offerings. Visit Saluhallen Market, which is a paradise for foodies. Be sure to try the “fish and chips” at Feskekôrka, a fish market housed in a striking building that resembles a Gothic church. For something sweet, try a traditional cinnamon bun at Café Husaren and indulge in the city’s coffee culture.

Cultural Experiences

Gothenburg is a hub for cultural experiences, from theatre performances to live music events. Plan a visit during the summer and attend the renowned Gothenburg Culture Festival, which offers over a thousand performances from various genres, including music, dance, and visual arts. Additionally, the Gothenburg Film Festival is a major annual event that draws filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts from around the world.

Local History

For an intriguing and immersive look into Gothenburg’s past, visit the Fisherman’s Quarter known as Haga District. Here you’ll find a neighbourhood of historic homes and shops selling traditional Swedish crafts, antiques, and sweets. Another fascinating attraction to visit is the Gunnebo House and Gardens, a well-preserved estate from the 18th century that transports visitors back in time with its authentic architecture, art collection, and furniture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To truly experience the city’s natural beauty, take a guided tour through Gothenburg’s archipelago, which is an archipelago of over 20 islands. Plan a boat trip with the local company Salt & Sill and enjoy traditional Swedish food and drink as you explore the stunning coast and remote islands.

Another off-the-beaten-track suggestion is to visit Röda Sten Konsthall, a modern art gallery that is housed in an old boiler house. This unconventional exhibition space features both contemporary Swedish and international art exhibitions, as well as an edgy graffiti and street art collection.

In conclusion, Gothenburg is a fantastic city that is seemingly always on the cusp of its next big moment. Explore the city’s hidden gems, indulge in the local cuisine and culture, and immerse yourself in the city’s history. Let Gothenburg enchant you with its unique charm, and it will be a trip that you’ll never forget.