Student Handbook

View Categories

5 min read

Transportation #

Public Transportation #

Stockholm boasts an efficient, convenient, and highly-utilized transit system called Storstockholms Lokaltrafik (Stockholm Public Transit), or simply SL. Learn more about using public transit on the SL website.

Navigation #

It is your responsibility to quickly become familiar with the workings of the transit system and the basics of Stockholm geography. Keep in mind that most transit lines run less frequently at night, so it is important to check the schedule ahead of time if you plan to be out late.

Upon your arrival in Stockholm, we provide a map of the city and public rail system. Take a careful look at each and carry them with you during the first few weeks. You can also use the trip planner on the SL website. We also recommend downloading the navigation app “SL-Journey Planner and Tickets” or Google Maps to help plan ahead. When in doubt, Swedes are generally very helpful in providing directions — usually in excellent English!

Fare (SL Card) #

You will be provided with a prepaid SL card that covers unlimited travel, including all SL subway, bus, train, and ferry routes for 90 days. A few days before the card expires, you will receive a new card to cover the remainder of the semester.

As a student, you receive a fare discount. Ticket officers may, at any time, require you to show your Mecenat Card (Student ID) and photo ID to prove you qualify for this discounted fare. If you are stopped by a ticket officer and cannot present your Mecenat card or photo ID, you will face a fine of 1500 SEK or more.

Supplemental Fares #

In order to travel to Arlanda Airport or Uppsala with public transport, you must purchase an additional supplementary ticket before boarding the train. This is because your transportation pass only covers Stockholm Country, but Arlanda Airport and the city of Uppsala are located in Uppsala County. The additional ticket can be purchased at station ticket booths or convenience stores like Pressbyrån. If you are stopped by a ticket officer on the train without a supplementary ticket, you will face a fine of 1500 SEK or more.

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged SL Access Card #

If your SL card isn’t working properly, see the bus driver or station attendant (usually in a booth by the turnstiles). If your card is lost or stolen, you are responsible for purchasing a replacement.

Replacement cards can be purchased at SL Centers, station ticket booths, or convenience stores like Pressbyrån. Find current information about tickets and fares on the SL website. If you need the fare to cover a longer period, the most economical option is usually to purchase an unlimited travel pass for a set length of time (e.g., 72 hours, 7 days, 30 days). Students receive a discounted fare, so remember to show your Mecenat Card and photo ID when making your purchase. You can also buy single tickets by tapping your card or digital wallet on the card reader as you board the bus or go through the turnstiles.

Etiquette #

Please be respectful of other passengers when using public transit. This means:

  • Allow passengers to exit before you board and don’t block the doors. When you board, walk all the way in to make room for others boarding after you.
  • If you are able-bodied, give up your seat when there are other passengers who might need to sit such as the elderly, people who are pregnant, and people with disabilities.
  • Never try to stop the doors from closing. This causes delays for everyone and you could seriously injure yourself.
  • Make sure your bags don’t block the aisles or prevent other passengers from taking a seat. If you have a backpack, hold it on your lap or between your feet. Wearing it on your back takes up extra space and you will inevitably knock into other passengers (often without realizing it).
  • Keep your voice low if you are chatting with friends or on the phone.
  • On escalators, stand on the right side and walk on the left side.

Safety #

The SL Security Centre can be reached 24/7 at the phone number +46 (0)20 120 25 25. In an emergency, call 112 (see In an Emergency).

It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings while you use the public transit system, particularly as you adjust to a new environment and culture. Trust your gut and use common sense.

Lost Property #

For information about lost property on SL lines, visit the SL website.

Taxi Services #

Although the public transit system will be your main form of transit in Stockholm, you may take a taxi at some point to get home after a late night or to get to the airport. If you have luggage, tell the dispatcher how many pieces of luggage to ensure they send a car with enough room. You should also ask about student discounts.

Uber is also available in Stockholm. Please note that trips to and from the airport with Uber may cost significantly more than other ride services due to airport fees.

Taxi prices are not regulated in Sweden so fares can vary dramatically from one company to another. Use caution and order your taxi via phone/website from a well-established company instead of hailing one on the street. Request a “fixed price” for longer trips.

Several taxi services are listed below for your convenience. We do not endorse any particular service.

Airport Transfers #

Several shuttle services are listed below for your convenience. We do not endorse any particular service.

Public Transit #

Shuttles #

  • Flygbussarna (Bus shuttle to and from Arlanda, Bromma, Skavsta, and Västerås Airports)
  • Flixbus (Bus shuttle to and from Arlanda, Skavsta, and Västerås Airports)
  • Arlanda Express (High-speed train service between the Central Station and Arlanda Airport in 20 minutes)

Trains #

  • SJ (Trains to and from local stations with bus service to Skavsta and Västerås Airports)