How to get to Sundsvall

Planning a trip to Sundsvall? This picturesque "Stone City", located on the coast in central Sweden, is known for its elegant architecture and proximity to lush northern nature. If you are looking for information on how to get to Sundsvall, a developed transport network is at your service: you can arrive here by plane, train, intercity bus, or private car.

For travellers choosing air transport, the city is served by Sundsvall-Timrå Airport, located approximately 20 kilometres from the centre. It is an active and convenient transport hub receiving regular domestic and charter flights.

The optimal route for most tourists is via Stockholm. The flight from the capital's Arlanda Airport takes less than an hour, making the connection quick and stress-free. This option allows you to easily reach the north of the country while enjoying Scandinavian landscapes from above.

Upon arrival at the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or take a bus that connects the terminal with the city centre. The transfer takes very little time, allowing you to start exploring local attractions almost immediately.

Travelling by train is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to get to Sundsvall. Unlike many small settlements, the city has its own railway station, Sundsvall Central, located in the very centre, close to the harbour and hotels. This beautiful historic building serves as an important transport hub for the entire region.

Regular railway connections link the city with the country's capital. High-speed trains from the operator SJ depart from Stockholm several times a day; the travel time averages between 3.5 to 4 hours. A train journey through Sweden is a pleasure in itself: views of dense forests, rocky landscapes, and the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia open up from the window. It is also easy to get here by direct routes from other major cities, such as Umeå (from the north) or Östersund (from the west).

Bus services in this region are distinguished by Swedish punctuality and comfort, allowing you to enjoy picturesque views of the Västernorrland province right from the window. A trip from the coastal Örnsköldsvik will take about two and a half hours, covering a distance of 150 kilometres, while the journey from neighbouring Kramfors (about 80 kilometres) will take just over an hour.

For travellers heading from the interior of the country, for example from the town of Sveg, the road will take more time — about four to five hours to cover 220 kilometres, often with a transfer. Modern buses operating on these routes are usually equipped with Wi-Fi and comfortable seats, turning the transfer to Sundsvall into a pleasant part of the Scandinavian adventure.

A road trip to Sundsvall offers a great opportunity to enjoy Scandinavian roads, especially if driving along the scenic E4 highway along the coast. The drive from Örnsköldsvik will take about two hours (155 km), and the path from nearby Kramfors, 85 kilometres long, will require just over an hour.

If you are heading from inland regions, for example from Sveg, prepare for a journey through forests and hills spanning about 220 kilometres, which will take approximately 3.5 hours. Given the high taxi fares in Sweden, an intercity trip by private transfer will cost a significant amount, so tourists more often choose a rental car for such distances.

To ensure your trip to Sundsvall is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth considering a few important nuances in advance. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations to help you feel confident in this beautiful northern city.

1. Clothing and Weather. The climate here is temperate but with a northern character. In winter, be sure to bring thermal wear, a warm windproof jacket, and non-slip shoes. In summer, the weather is changeable, so the principle of layering is always relevant: even in July, it is worth having a light jumper or windbreaker with you in case of a cool breeze from the sea.
2. Transport. The historic centre, known as the "Stone City", is very compact and ideal for walking. For long-distance trips, it is convenient to use local Din Tur buses. It is better to buy tickets in advance via a mobile app or at machines, as drivers often do not accept cash or cards.
3. Finances. Sweden is a country that has almost completely switched to cashless payments. Although the local currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK), bank cards are accepted everywhere: from hotels to tiny kiosks. Moreover, many establishments operate on a "card only" basis, so exchanging large sums of cash is not necessary.
4. Health and Safety. Sundsvall is a calm and safe city. Tap water here is of excellent quality; it can be consumed without boiling. Pharmacies are marked with the sign "Apotek"; a prescription is not required to buy most medicines, but it is better to bring specific medications with you.
5. Communication. The official language is Swedish, but almost all locals speak English fluently. There is no language barrier here, however, knowing a couple of basic phrases in Swedish, for example, "Hej" (hello) or "Tack" (thank you), will be received with great appreciation.
6. Local Etiquette. Swedes value personal space and order. Respect the queue everywhere — from the bus stop to the supermarket checkout; this is an unspoken but strict rule here. Also, do not forget about "fika" — a traditional coffee break, which is an important part of the local culture.
7. What to Avoid. Do not talk loudly in public places or on transport — this is considered a sign of disrespect to others. It is also strictly forbidden to litter on the street and in nature; the country takes ecology and waste sorting very seriously.
8. City Symbol. Walking through the streets, pay attention to the dragon sculptures. The dragon is the symbol of Sundsvall, which, according to legends, protects the city from fires. Finding these colourful figures can be an exciting quest during a walk.

Following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on the main thing — the majestic architecture and unique atmosphere of the Swedish coast. May your trip be easy and inspiring!