Planning a trip to Uppsala? Sweden’s fourth-largest city is easy to reach from Stockholm Arlanda Airport, central Stockholm and other parts of Sweden. The best option depends on where you start, your budget and how much luggage you have. This guide explains how to get to Uppsala by train, bus, car, bicycle and airport transfer, with practical advice for choosing transport to Uppsala.
Where is Uppsala?
Uppsala is in east-central Sweden, approximately 70 kilometres north of Stockholm and about 35 kilometres from Stockholm Arlanda Airport. The city is located along the main railway between Stockholm and northern Sweden, which makes it one of the easiest Swedish cities to reach without a car.
Most visitors arrive at Uppsala Central Station. The station is in the city centre, close to hotels, restaurants, Uppsala Cathedral, Uppsala University and the main shopping streets. Local buses depart from the area around the station, while many central attractions are within walking distance.
How to get to Uppsala from Stockholm
For most travellers, the train is the simplest way to travel from Stockholm to Uppsala. Frequent services connect Stockholm Central Station with Uppsala Central Station throughout the day. The journey normally takes between 40 and 55 minutes, depending on the service and number of stops.
You can also travel by bus or car, but road traffic can make buses and driving less predictable, particularly during weekday mornings and afternoons. If you are staying in central Stockholm, the train is usually the most convenient form of transport to Uppsala.
Trains from Stockholm to Uppsala
Several train services operate between Stockholm and Uppsala. SJ runs long-distance and regional trains, while Mälartåg operates regional services on routes in the Mälardalen region. SL commuter trains also connect Stockholm with Uppsala, although the journey is slower because they stop at more stations.
Fast regional and intercity services can take around 40 minutes. SL commuter trains generally take close to an hour. Check the operator, departure time and ticket conditions before travelling, since tickets and travel cards are not always interchangeable between operators.
- SJ: Often offers some of the fastest journeys, with fares that may be lower when booked in advance.
- Mälartåg: Provides regional connections and is useful for travel within the wider Stockholm and Mälardalen area.
- SL commuter train: A practical option for passengers using an SL travel card, although it usually takes longer.
Stockholm Central Station is connected to the metro, city buses and commuter rail platforms. Allow extra time to find your platform, especially if you are carrying luggage or changing from an airport service.
Taking a bus from Stockholm to Uppsala
Buses can be useful when train tickets are expensive or when you are travelling from an area that is not close to Stockholm Central Station. FlixBus and other operators may offer services depending on the season and timetable. The journey commonly takes between one and two hours, but traffic on the E4 motorway can add delays.
Before booking a bus, check the departure and arrival stops carefully. Some services leave from locations away from Stockholm Central Station, and the Uppsala stop may be at or near the central bus terminal rather than directly beside a railway platform.
How to get to Uppsala from Arlanda Airport
Stockholm Arlanda Airport is the closest major airport to Uppsala. The distance is only around 35 kilometres, and the trip usually takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on the type of transport you choose. For international visitors, travelling directly from Arlanda is often easier than going into Stockholm first.
Train from Arlanda Airport to Uppsala
Trains to Uppsala depart from Arlanda Central Station, located below SkyCity between the airport terminals. The journey to Uppsala Central Station can take approximately 20 minutes on a direct service. This is one of the fastest ways to reach the city.
Arlanda airport station charges a separate station access fee for some train journeys. This fee may be included in the ticket price or added during booking, depending on the operator. Check the total price before paying, because an apparently inexpensive train ticket may not include all airport charges.
SJ and Mälartåg may operate direct services at different times. There can also be other railway options that require a change. Use the official operator websites or a reputable travel planner to check departures on your travel date.
Bus from Arlanda to Uppsala
Airport buses are another convenient option. Services operated by companies such as FlixBus or local regional providers may run between Arlanda and Uppsala. Depending on the route, buses can take roughly 30 to 45 minutes.
Bus stops are located outside the airport terminals. Follow the signs for coaches and regional buses, and confirm your terminal and stop number before leaving the arrivals area. Bus tickets are often reasonably priced, but luggage rules and ticket conditions vary by operator.
Taxi or private transfer from Arlanda
A taxi takes around 30 minutes in normal traffic and is a good choice for families, groups or travellers with several bags. Swedish taxi prices are not fixed nationwide, so compare the displayed fare and ask whether the price is fixed before starting the trip. Use a licensed taxi company and avoid accepting unsolicited offers inside the terminal.
A pre-booked private transfer can be useful if you arrive late, need a child seat or want to go directly to accommodation outside central Uppsala. The driver can meet you at the terminal and help with luggage, but this option usually costs more than a train or bus.
How to get to Uppsala from other Swedish cities
Uppsala’s position on Sweden’s main north-south railway makes it accessible from many destinations. Direct trains or simple connections are available from cities including Gävle, Västerås, Örebro, Linköping, Norrköping, Sundsvall and Gothenburg. Travel times vary considerably, so compare routes before booking.
From Gävle
Gävle is north of Uppsala and has regular rail connections. The train journey usually takes less than an hour, making this one of the easiest day trips to Uppsala by public transport.
From Västerås
Travelling from Västerås often involves a regional train connection, depending on the timetable. Allow approximately one to two hours for the complete journey. Regional buses may also be available, but train schedules are often easier to coordinate.
From Gothenburg and southern Sweden
From Gothenburg, Malmö or other parts of southern Sweden, you will usually travel via Stockholm or another major railway junction. SJ offers long-distance services, and booking ahead can help you find better prices. A train journey from Gothenburg to Uppsala commonly takes several hours, so an early departure is useful if you are visiting for only one day.
How to get to Uppsala by car
Driving to Uppsala is straightforward. The E4 motorway runs close to the city and connects Uppsala with Stockholm, Arlanda, Gävle and northern Sweden. From the E4, follow signs for Uppsala and choose the exit that best matches your destination.
From Stockholm, the drive normally takes about one hour in light traffic. During rush hour, the journey can take significantly longer. From Arlanda, driving to Uppsala usually takes around 30 minutes, although airport and motorway traffic can affect the time.
Once you arrive, check parking arrangements before setting off. Central hotels may have limited parking, and some spaces require payment through a mobile app. Uppsala has several public car parks, but availability can be lower during university term time and major events.
- Use the E4 when travelling from Stockholm, Arlanda or northern Sweden.
- Check live traffic information before leaving, particularly on weekday mornings.
- Confirm whether your accommodation offers private parking.
- Consider parking outside the busiest central streets and walking or taking a local bus.
How to get to Uppsala by bus
Regional buses connect Uppsala with surrounding towns and villages. These services are especially useful if you are staying in areas without a railway station, such as parts of Uppland. The regional transport authority, UL, operates many local and regional bus routes.
Bus travel times depend on the route and number of stops. A journey from a nearby town may take 30 minutes, while rural services can take considerably longer. Some routes operate less frequently at weekends and outside peak hours, so check the timetable before travelling.
UL tickets can generally be purchased through the UL app, at ticket machines or through approved sales points. Ticket availability and accepted payment methods can change, so download the latest app or check the official UL website before your trip.
How to get to Uppsala by bicycle
Uppsala is one of Sweden’s most bicycle-friendly cities. If you are already in Stockholm or a nearby town, cycling to Uppsala is possible for experienced riders, but the distance is substantial. The route from Stockholm is approximately 70 kilometres, while the route from Arlanda is much shorter.
Plan carefully before cycling from Arlanda. Not every road suitable for cars is suitable for bicycles, and motorway access is restricted. Use a cycle route planner, check the surface and confirm that the route avoids prohibited roads. Weather can change quickly, especially outside summer.
Once in Uppsala, cycling is a convenient way to move between the city centre, university buildings, residential areas and attractions. Bike parking is available near the central station and other busy locations. Always lock your bicycle securely and follow local signs.
Choosing the best transport to Uppsala
The best transport to Uppsala depends on your starting point and priorities. Trains are generally fastest from Stockholm and Arlanda, while buses can be less expensive or more convenient for certain neighbourhoods. A car is helpful if you plan to explore the countryside around Uppsala, but it is not necessary for a city break.
- Best for speed: A direct train from Arlanda or Stockholm.
- Best for low-cost travel: An advance-purchase regional train or a bus, depending on the date.
- Best for families with luggage: A taxi, private transfer or direct train.
- Best for exploring outside the city: A rental car.
- Best for nearby towns: UL regional buses or local trains.
Tickets, fares and travel cards
Swedish public transport is reliable, but tickets can be managed by different companies. Buy your ticket from the operator that runs your service and check whether it is valid for a specific departure or for a time period. SJ tickets, Mälartåg tickets, SL tickets and UL tickets may have different rules.
For longer journeys, booking an SJ ticket early can reduce the price. Regional services may use fixed or flexible fares, while local transport generally uses zone or time-based tickets. Do not board a train or bus without a valid ticket, since onboard purchasing may not be available and inspection penalties can be high.
If you are changing between services, check whether one ticket covers the complete journey. A trip involving SL and UL, for example, may require a combined ticket or separate tickets depending on the route and current fare system.
Arriving in Uppsala
Uppsala Central Station is close to the centre and is well connected to local buses. The city centre can be reached on foot in a few minutes, although the exact walking time depends on your hotel. Uppsala Cathedral is around a 10 to 15 minute walk from the station, and the university area is also nearby.
Taxis wait near the station, but availability may vary at quieter times. Local buses are useful for destinations farther from the centre, including parts of the university campus and residential districts. If you are travelling with luggage, check the walking route in advance because some central streets are pedestrianised or have cobblestones.
Practical tips for travelling to Uppsala
- Check departure times on the day of travel because engineering work and seasonal timetable changes can affect services.
- Arrive early at Arlanda if you need to find the correct railway platform or bus stop.
- Keep your booking confirmation available on your phone, and carry a charger or power bank for longer journeys.
- Reserve seats when available if you are travelling at a busy time or with children.
- Compare the complete fare, including airport station charges, before choosing between trains and buses.
- Allow extra time during winter, when snow and ice can affect roads and rail services.
- Use the same spelling when searching for stations: Uppsala Centralstation is the main railway station, while Arlanda Central is the airport railway station.
Frequently asked questions about getting to Uppsala
What is the easiest way to get to Uppsala?
The easiest option for most visitors is a direct train. From Stockholm, trains are frequent and arrive in the city centre. From Arlanda Airport, a direct train or airport bus avoids the need to travel into Stockholm first.
How long does it take to travel from Stockholm to Uppsala?
The fastest trains take about 40 minutes, while SL commuter trains generally take close to one hour. Buses and cars can take longer when traffic is heavy.
Is there a direct train from Arlanda to Uppsala?
Yes, direct trains may run between Arlanda Central Station and Uppsala Central Station. Services and fares vary by time and operator, so check the timetable for your date and remember to look for any airport station fee.
Can I use a Stockholm travel card to get to Uppsala?
Not automatically. Stockholm’s SL tickets cover specific parts of the public transport network, while Uppsala’s UL system has its own fares. Some combined tickets or regional products may cover the complete journey, but check the current conditions before departure.
Can I visit Uppsala as a day trip from Stockholm?
Yes. The short train journey makes Uppsala a convenient day trip from Stockholm. With an early start, you can see the cathedral, university area, castle and central streets before returning to Stockholm in the evening.