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Stockholm Arlanda Airport

About the Airport

Stockholm Arlanda Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Stockholm Arlanda Airport is not merely a transit point, but the stylish and modern aerial gateway to Sweden, where Scandinavian functionality meets home-like comfort. Located amidst dense coniferous forests, this hub immerses travellers in an atmosphere of Nordic tranquillity and eco-friendliness from the very first minute. Here, high technology sits alongside designer lounge zones, and thoughtful logistics allow you to feel comfortable even during peak hours.

IATA Code ARN
ICAO Code ESSA
City Stockholm
Distance to centre approx. 40 km
Status International
Annual Passengers ~21.8 million (2023)
Schedule Live flight board on the official website

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

SkyCity is a unique centre located between Terminals 4 and 5. Unlike typical transit zones, it is open to all visitors, not just passengers with tickets. Here you will find hotels, numerous restaurants, shops, and conference halls, transforming the airport into a true "city within a city".

One of the most unusual attractions is Jumbo Stay. This is a hostel built directly inside a decommissioned Boeing 747-200. Guests can spend the night in converted compartments of the liner or even book a suite in the cockpit with a panoramic view of the runway.

Arlanda is also renowned for its transport accessibility. The high-speed Arlanda Express train transports passengers to the very centre of Stockholm in just 18 minutes — one of the fastest airport transfers in Europe. Furthermore, the airport is a global leader in environmental innovation and was the first in the world to achieve climate neutrality in its own operations.

Contact Information

To contact representatives of Stockholm Arlanda Airport, obtain current information about flights and services, or in case of any questions, you may use the following contact details:

  • Official Website: www.swedavia.se/arlanda. The website provides the most complete information regarding schedules, services, parking, and airport regulations in Swedish and English.
  • Information Desk Phone: +46 (0)10 109 10 00. The line operates 24/7 to assist passengers.
  • Address: Swedavia Arlanda Airport, 190 45 Stockholm-Arlanda, Sverige.
  • Email: The airport does not provide a general email address for enquiries. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website for communication.
  • Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the airport terminal, please contact the Lost and Found bureau, managed by Bagport. If your luggage was lost during a flight, you must immediately contact your airline representative.
  • Social Media: You can follow news and updates on Swedavia's official pages on social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
  • Passenger Support Service: Assistance can be obtained by calling the general information desk number or by approaching staff at the information counters located in all airport terminals.

How to Get to the Airport

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) is the main aerial gateway to Stockholm and all of Sweden, located approximately 40 kilometres north of the city centre. Thanks to an excellently developed transport network, you can reach it via several convenient methods suitable for any budget and schedule.

The Arlanda Express high-speed train is the fastest way to get to the airport. The journey from Stockholm Central Station (Stockholm Central) to Arlanda takes only about 20 minutes. Trains depart every 15-20 minutes. This is the most comfortable, though most expensive, option. A more budget-friendly alternative is the commuter trains (Pendeltåg), which take longer, approximately 40 minutes, but cost significantly less. Note that when exiting at the airport station from a commuter train, an additional passage fee is required.

Flygbussarna and Flixbus coaches are a popular and economical choice. The bus journey from the central bus terminal, Cityterminalen (next to the railway station), takes about 45-50 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run around the clock with short intervals, making several stops across the city, which can be convenient if you are not staying in the centre. This offers an excellent balance between price and travel time.

Taxis and transfers offer maximum convenience, especially if you are travelling with family, a large amount of luggage, or during the night. A taxi ride to the airport will take about 40 minutes. It is recommended to use the services of official carriers or book a transfer online in advance to fix the cost of the trip. Prices may vary between companies, so it is worth checking them beforehand.

If you prefer to travel by private or rented car, Arlanda Airport provides numerous parking options: from express parking at the terminals to more budget-friendly long-term car parks, from where free shuttles run to the terminals. The road to the airport is well-marked, but it is worth allowing extra time for possible traffic jams during peak hours.

It is worth noting that Arlanda is the primary, but not the only airport in the region. For domestic and some European flights, including budget airlines, Bromma Airport, located closer to the city, and Stockholm Skavsta Airport, which is located significantly further away, are also used.

Terminals and Map

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) features a well-thought-out structure convenient for passengers. Currently, two main terminals are used to serve passengers — Terminal 2 and Terminal 5, as well as the central SkyCity zone connecting parts of the airport. The former Terminal 4 is now fully integrated with Terminal 5, creating a single large space for many flights.

Terminal 5 is the largest in the airport and serves as the main international hub. It handles the majority of long-haul flights to non-Schengen countries, as well as a significant portion of flights within the Schengen area. Following recent reconstruction, a modern retail area has appeared here with a huge selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Arrival zones are located on the lower floors, and departures on the upper floors, which is standard practice and simplifies navigation.

Terminal 2 is more compact and serves both Schengen and some non-Schengen destinations, including flights for a number of budget airlines. Its main advantage is the speed of passing through procedures. Due to its smaller size, the path from the building entrance to the boarding gate usually takes less time here.

To move between terminals, a free shuttle bus is provided, which runs between Terminal 2 and Terminal 5 at short intervals. You can walk from the integrated Terminal 4 to the main part of Terminal 5 via the SkyCity gallery. Navigation throughout the airport is very clear thanks to distinct signs in Swedish and English.

To calmly pass through check-in and security, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 2 hours before departure for flights within the Schengen zone and 3 hours before an international flight. Although procedures at Arlanda are organised efficiently, queues are possible during peak hours. Always check the departure terminal on your ticket or the airline's website, as it may change depending on the flight and destination.

Airport History

The history of Arlanda Airport is a story of growth and innovation, closely linked to the development of aviation in Sweden. The decision to build it was made in the 1950s when it became obvious that the old Bromma Airport could not cope with the growing flow of passengers and could not accommodate new, larger jet aircraft. Although the first training flights took place as early as 1959, the official opening for regular flights occurred in 1962, which is considered the airport's founding date. From that moment, Arlanda became the main aerial gateway of Stockholm for international travel.

Stockholm Arlanda Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Interestingly, the name "Arlanda" was chosen through a competition. It derives from the name of the ancient church parish Ärlinghundra (today known as Arland), in the territory of which the airport is located. Furthermore, this name resonates well with the Swedish word "landa", which means "to land". Such symbolism immediately caught on and became an integral part of the airport's identity.

Arlanda's development proceeded in stages. The first major step was taken in 1976 with the opening of the international terminal, known today as Terminal 5. In 1983, a terminal for domestic flights was added (now Terminal 4), and in 1990 — Terminal 2, which initially served European destinations. These expansions allowed the airport to become a major transport hub in Northern Europe.

One of the key achievements in the airport's history was the launch of the Arlanda Express high-speed train in 1999. It connected the airport with the centre of Stockholm, reducing travel time to just 20 minutes. In 2002, a third runway was put into operation, significantly increasing capacity. Parallel to this, infrastructure developed: the SkyCity complex grew between the terminals with hotels, shops, and restaurants, turning Arlanda into a veritable city within a city.

Today, Stockholm Arlanda Airport is not only the largest in Sweden but also a leader in environmental technologies. It actively implements programmes to reduce carbon emissions and strives for complete energy independence. Constant modernisation of terminals and improvement of service for passengers make it one of the most modern and convenient airports in the world, continuing its history by welcoming and seeing off millions of travellers every year.

Services and Amenities

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) offers passengers a full range of services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. Here, everyone will find something for themselves, whether a gourmet, a business traveller, or a family with children.

The airport terminals house numerous restaurants, cafes, and dining venues offering both Swedish and international cuisine. You can have a quick snack with a sandwich, drink some coffee, or enjoy a full meal. For shopping enthusiasts, there are numerous shops, including Duty Free zones, where you can purchase perfumes, cosmetics, confectionery, souvenirs, and designer clothing.

For those who value comfort, VIP lounges are available. Access can be obtained for an additional fee, via an airline loyalty card, or through the Priority Pass programme. In the lounges, guests are offered snacks, beverages, comfortable seating, press, and work areas. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, as well as numerous charging stations for electronic devices.

Financial matters can be resolved at bank branches and currency exchange points. ATMs are also located throughout the airport. If necessary, passengers can visit a pharmacy for medication or receive first aid at a medical point.

For families with children, Arlanda offers special play areas and baby care rooms equipped with everything necessary for looking after little ones. For passengers with reduced mobility, special assistance, accessible toilets, and ramps are provided, which can be booked in advance through the airline.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, you can stay at one of the hotels located either directly on the airport grounds or in the immediate vicinity, served by shuttle buses. For business travellers, modern conference halls and business centres are available, where you can hold a meeting or work in a quiet environment.

Where to Eat

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) offers passengers a wide selection of establishments for every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a quick coffee before departure or planning a leisurely dinner, you will find a suitable option here. The main gastronomic points are concentrated in the public SkyCity area (between Terminals 4 and 5) and in the airside departure zones of Terminals 2 and 5.

For a full lunch or dinner, head to SkyCity, accessible to all visitors before passing security control. Here, à la carte restaurants are located, offering both Swedish and international cuisine. It is an ideal place to sit in a calm atmosphere. In the departure zone of Terminal 5, the largest in the airport, the choice is also vast: from steakhouses to Asian restaurants. Prices in such establishments are above average, but the quality of service corresponds.

If time is limited, numerous cafes and fast-food establishments are at your service. The Swedish burger chain Max Burgers is an excellent alternative to global fast-food giants. Coffee shops are scattered throughout the airport where you can grab coffee and fresh pastries. Be sure to try traditional Swedish treats — aromatic cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) or cardamom buns (kardemummabullar). Also, on the menu of many restaurants, you will find the famous Swedish meatballs (köttbullar), served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry sauce, and cream sauce.

Passengers with special dietary needs will not go hungry. Most cafes and restaurants have vegetarian and vegan options, such as salads, vegetable sandwiches, or bowls. It is best to check information regarding gluten-free or Halal dishes directly with the staff at the establishment — Swedes are very attentive to such requests. Many venues clearly mark the ingredients of their dishes.

Most cafes and restaurants open early in the morning and work until late in the evening to serve passengers of morning and evening flights. However, only a few are open around the clock, mostly small convenience stores like Pressbyrån or 7-Eleven, where you can buy drinks, sandwiches, and snacks at any time. In general, be prepared that prices for food and drinks at Arlanda, as at any major European airport, will be higher than in the city.

Tips for Travellers

To ensure your journey through Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) goes smoothly, make use of these tips. Arlanda is a large and busy international hub, so planning ahead will help avoid stress. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for domestic and Schengen flights and 3 hours before international flights, especially during peak seasons.

To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your mobile device. Self-service kiosks for check-in and baggage drop are also available at the airport. Be prepared for security control in advance: pack all liquids up to 100 ml in a transparent bag and remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage. This will significantly speed up the screening process.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. Seats by the window will give you beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while seats by the aisle provide more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing neighbours. Many airlines offer seat selection for an additional fee when booking a ticket.

It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in hand luggage. Liquids (gels, aerosols, creams) may be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a single transparent resealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Always check the current hand luggage rules on your airline's website, as they may differ slightly.

If you have a transfer at Arlanda, check in advance from which terminal your next flight departs. The airport consists of several terminals, and moving between them may require time. Signs in the airport are clear and duplicated in English. If you arrive from a non-Schengen country and are flying further to a Schengen country, you will need to pass passport control, so allow extra time for this.

Customs control for passengers arriving from non-EU countries operates via a "Red" and "Green" channel system. If you have goods to declare, follow the Red Channel. If there are no such goods — the Green Channel. For those travelling within the EU, customs formalities are usually kept to a minimum.

To save money, consider getting to or from the city on Flygbussarna or Flixbus coaches, which are cheaper than the Arlanda Express high-speed train. You can also save on food and drinks by taking an empty water bottle with you and filling it at special fountains after passing security control.

In case of flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. In accordance with EU regulations, for long delays, passengers are entitled to meals, drinks, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses. While you wait, Arlanda Airport has plenty of shops, cafes, and rest areas to pass the time.

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