Wondering how to get to Varberg? This coastal town in Halland is easy to reach from Gothenburg, Halmstad, Malmö, Copenhagen and other parts of Sweden. Most visitors arrive by train, but buses, cars, bicycles and air travel can all work well depending on where your journey begins. This guide explains the best transport to Varberg, with practical advice about trains to Varberg, driving routes, local connections and planning your arrival.
Where is Varberg?
Varberg is located on Sweden’s west coast in Halland County, roughly halfway between Gothenburg and Halmstad. The town sits beside the Kattegat Sea and is known for Varberg Fortress, a historic harbour, long beaches, the Comwell Kellers Park area and the nearby resort of Apelviken.
The town’s position makes it a convenient stop between Gothenburg and southern Sweden. Varberg is approximately 70 kilometres south of Gothenburg, around 80 kilometres north of Halmstad and about 150 kilometres north of Malmö. Copenhagen is farther away, but the journey is still straightforward by train via Malmö and the Öresund connection.
Varberg has a central railway station close to the town centre. This is the most useful arrival point for visitors, because the station is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, the harbour and Varberg Fortress.
How to get to Varberg by train
For most travellers, the train is the easiest way to get to Varberg. The railway line along Sweden’s west coast connects the town with Gothenburg, Kungsbacka, Falkenberg, Halmstad, Helsingborg, Malmö and several other destinations. Trains are generally comfortable, and arriving in central Varberg avoids the need to find parking.
Services and journey times can change according to the day, railway works and seasonal timetables. Check the latest departure information with the relevant train operator or through a Swedish public transport journey planner before travelling.
Trains from Gothenburg to Varberg
Gothenburg is the most common starting point for visitors travelling to Varberg. Regional trains usually run from Göteborg Centralstation and stop at several stations south of the city, including Mölndal, Kungsbacka and Åsa before reaching Varberg.
The direct journey normally takes around 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the service and number of stops. This makes Varberg suitable for a day trip from Gothenburg as well as for a longer stay. Trains are usually more convenient than driving, particularly during summer weekends when coastal roads and popular beaches can become busy.
At Göteborg Centralstation, look for services heading south towards Varberg, Falkenberg, Halmstad or Malmö. Some departures may be operated by Västtrafik, while longer regional services can be operated by Öresundståg or another rail company. The exact ticketing arrangements depend on the service, so check the operator before boarding.
Trains from Halmstad and southern Halland
Travelling north from Halmstad is also simple. Trains generally connect Halmstad with Falkenberg and Varberg before continuing towards Gothenburg. The trip from Halmstad to Varberg commonly takes about 40 to 55 minutes.
Falkenberg is even closer. The train journey from Falkenberg station to Varberg usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Remember that Falkenberg station is outside the town centre, so you may need a local bus or taxi to reach the station before taking a train to Varberg.
Trains from Malmö, Lund and Copenhagen
If you are coming from Malmö or Lund, trains to Varberg normally involve a direct regional train or a change in Malmö, depending on the timetable. The full journey from Malmö generally takes around two and a half to three and a half hours.
Travellers from Copenhagen can use the Öresund connection to cross from Denmark into Sweden. A typical route runs from Copenhagen to Malmö, then continues north along the west coast railway towards Varberg. Allow roughly three and a half to four and a half hours, although the exact time depends on the connection and any changes.
When travelling internationally, allow extra time for delays and check whether your ticket covers the complete journey. If you have a bicycle, large luggage or a surfboard, review the operator’s rules before departure. Space for bicycles can be limited, especially on busy summer services.
Booking trains to Varberg
You can usually buy tickets through the railway operator’s website or app, through a regional public transport app or from a station ticket machine. Prices vary according to the operator, departure time and how far in advance you book.
- Search for Varberg station rather than a local beach or hotel.
- Check whether the journey is direct or requires a change.
- Compare the total journey time, not only the ticket price.
- Confirm the departure platform on the day of travel.
- Allow extra time if you need to connect with a bus or ferry.
During the summer, trains can become busy on Fridays, Sundays and around Swedish public holidays. Booking earlier can make the trip easier, particularly if you are travelling with children or several pieces of luggage.
How to get to Varberg by bus
Bus travel can be useful when you are starting from a nearby town or travelling to a destination that is not directly served by rail. Local and regional buses connect Varberg with areas around Halland, including coastal communities and inland villages.
Bus routes are especially practical for reaching places outside central Varberg. For example, local services can help you travel from the railway station to Apelviken, Träslövsläge, Getterön and other parts of the municipality. Routes and operating hours vary, so use the local public transport planner to find the correct service.
Long distance coach companies may also offer connections to Gothenburg, Malmö or other Swedish cities, either directly or with a change. Coach journeys can be cheaper than trains, but they may take longer and may not operate as frequently. Compare the arrival point with your accommodation, since a coach stop may be farther from the centre than Varberg railway station.
Using public transport in Varberg
Once you arrive, much of central Varberg can be explored on foot. The railway station is close to the town centre, and Varberg Fortress, the harbour and several restaurants are easy to reach by walking.
For Apelviken, Getterön, the swimming areas north of the centre and accommodation outside town, a local bus or bicycle may be more convenient. Tickets are commonly bought through the regional public transport app or other approved sales channels. In Sweden, it is not always possible to pay the driver with cash, so arrange your ticket before boarding when required.
How to get to Varberg by car
Driving is a flexible option if you want to explore Halland’s coastline, visit smaller villages or carry sports equipment. Varberg is connected to the E6 motorway, which runs along Sweden’s west coast between Malmö and Gothenburg. The town is reached from the E6 via the Varberg exits, followed by local roads into the centre.
From Gothenburg, the drive usually takes around one hour in normal traffic. From Halmstad, allow approximately one hour. Malmö is generally around two hours away by car, while Copenhagen takes longer because the route crosses the Öresund Bridge and includes the drive through southern Sweden.
Journey times can increase significantly during summer, Friday afternoons, Sunday evenings and holiday periods. Roadworks and traffic around Gothenburg or Malmö can also affect the trip. Check a live navigation service before leaving and keep a little flexibility in your schedule.
Parking in Varberg
Parking is available in and around Varberg, but spaces close to the harbour, fortress and beaches can fill quickly during warm weather. Some car parks use parking apps or automatic payment machines. Read the signs carefully, because restrictions can differ between central streets, residential areas and beach car parks.
If you are staying in a hotel or holiday apartment, ask about guest parking before arrival. Some properties have private spaces, while others recommend a nearby public car park. Leaving your car outside the busiest central area and walking the final distance can be easier during peak season.
Driving to Apelviken and the beaches
Apelviken is south of central Varberg and is popular with surfers, campers and families. It can be reached by car, bicycle or local bus. Parking conditions are more limited during the busiest summer days, so arriving early is sensible if you need a space close to the beach.
Getterön, north of the town centre, is another popular area for swimming and nature walks. The roads can become busy on sunny days. A bicycle or bus may be a better option if your accommodation is in central Varberg.
How to get to Varberg from the airport
Gothenburg Landvetter Airport is usually the most convenient major airport for visitors arriving by air. The airport is east of Gothenburg, while Varberg is south of the city. There is no railway station at the airport, so the journey normally involves an airport coach, bus, taxi or rental car followed by a train or road journey.
One option is to take an airport bus to Gothenburg city centre and continue by train from Göteborg Centralstation to Varberg. Depending on the connection, the complete journey often takes around two to three hours. A rental car or taxi can be faster, although the price is considerably higher.
Copenhagen Airport can be a useful alternative for international visitors if flight availability is better. From the airport, take a train across the Öresund Bridge to Malmö, then continue north by train towards Varberg. The journey is longer than travelling from Gothenburg Landvetter, but the airport has a wide selection of international flights.
Halmstad City Airport is closer to Varberg, but it has a more limited selection of scheduled services. If your flight arrives there, a rental car or taxi is usually the simplest onward transport to Varberg. Check current flight routes before choosing an airport.
How to get to Varberg by bicycle
Varberg is a good destination for a cycling holiday. The west coast landscape includes coastal roads, quiet rural lanes and marked cycle routes. Cyclists travelling from Gothenburg or Halmstad can combine railway travel with a shorter ride, provided the train operator permits bicycles on the selected service.
For a local cycling trip, you can ride from central Varberg to Apelviken, Getterön, Träslövsläge and nearby countryside. Distances are manageable, but coastal weather can change quickly. Bring lights, water and suitable clothing, particularly if you plan to cycle in the evening or outside the main summer season.
Before taking a bicycle on a train, check whether it must be stored in a designated area, whether reservations are required and whether full-size bicycles are allowed at all. Folding bicycles may have different rules when packed.
How to get around after arriving in Varberg
Central Varberg is compact enough to explore without a car. From the station, you can walk to the main shopping streets, the harbour, Varberg Fortress and several waterfront areas. Walking is also a pleasant way to see older buildings and reach the promenade.
- Walk for the town centre, harbour and fortress.
- Use a local bus for longer trips around the municipality.
- Rent or bring a bicycle for Apelviken, Getterön and the surrounding coast.
- Use a taxi when carrying heavy luggage or travelling late.
- Hire a car if you plan to visit several remote coastal or inland locations.
Taxis are available, but they may not always be waiting at smaller attractions. Booking in advance is sensible if you need a taxi at a particular time, especially early in the morning or late at night.
Which transport to Varberg is best?
The best transport to Varberg depends on your starting point and itinerary. The train is normally the strongest choice from Gothenburg, Halmstad, Malmö and Copenhagen because it reaches the centre and avoids parking problems. A car is more useful if you want to explore the wider Halland region, carry surf equipment or stay outside town.
A bus can be the most practical choice for nearby villages and local beaches, while a combination of airport bus and train works well for visitors flying into Gothenburg Landvetter. If you are planning a short visit, arriving by train and walking around central Varberg is often the simplest arrangement.
Practical travel tips for visiting Varberg
- Check train and bus timetables shortly before departure, especially during railway works.
- Book accommodation early for summer weekends and major events.
- Allow extra time for connections when travelling from Copenhagen or an airport.
- Check parking rules rather than assuming that roadside parking is free.
- Bring a payment card, since many Swedish transport services are cashless.
- Pack a light waterproof layer for changeable coastal weather.
- Confirm luggage and bicycle policies before booking trains to Varberg.
- Use the station name Varberg when searching for public transport connections.
With frequent regional rail links, good road access and practical local buses, getting to Varberg is straightforward from much of western and southern Sweden. Choose the train for a convenient central arrival, drive for maximum flexibility or combine public transport with a bicycle to enjoy more of Halland’s coast.