The Ultimate Guide to Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)

Overview of Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), known as Arlanda flygplats in Swedish, is Sweden's largest and busiest airport. Located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Stockholm, the airport serves as a key gateway for both domestic and international travel. With its efficient layout, modern amenities, and focus on sustainability, ARN is a major hub for Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and a vital transit point for flights across Europe, Asia, and North America.

• Location: Sigtuna Municipality, Stockholm County, Sweden

• IATA Code: ARN

• ICAO Code: ESSA

• Opened: 1962

• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 25 million (pre-pandemic levels)

• Terminals: 4 (Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Terminal 4, and Terminal 5)

History of Stockholm Arlanda Airport

Arlanda Airport opened in 1962 to accommodate the growing demand for air travel in Sweden. Initially serving as a replacement for Bromma Airport for international flights, it quickly became a major aviation hub in Scandinavia. Over the years, ARN has undergone multiple expansions, including the addition of Terminal 5 for long-haul flights and ongoing projects to enhance passenger experience and sustainability. The airport’s name, “Arlanda,” is derived from the nearby parish of Ärlinghundra, with “-landa” symbolizing aviation.

Terminals at Stockholm Arlanda Airport

Stockholm Arlanda Airport operates four terminals, each catering to specific types of flights and airlines.

1. Terminal 2 (International)

• Overview:

  • Handles international flights, primarily for smaller airlines and non-Schengen routes.

• Key Features:

  • Compact layout with modern facilities.

  • Quick access to dining and shopping options.

• Airlines Operating:

  • British Airways, Finnair, and Air France.

2. Terminal 3 (Regional)

• Overview:

  • Dedicated to domestic and regional flights within Sweden.

• Key Features:

  • Efficient check-in and boarding processes for short-haul routes.

  • Minimalist design focused on functionality.

3. Terminal 4 (Domestic)

• Overview:

  • Handles domestic flights within Sweden, including services by SAS and regional carriers.

• Key Features:

  • Streamlined passenger flow for domestic travelers.

  • Convenient access to parking and public transport.

4. Terminal 5 (International Long-Haul)

• Overview:

  • The largest and most modern terminal, catering to long-haul and Schengen international flights.

• Key Features:

  • State-of-the-art facilities, premium lounges, and a wide range of dining options.

  • Direct connections to major global destinations.

• Airlines Operating:

  • Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Emirates, Delta Air Lines, and Qatar Airways.

Transportation Options to and from ARN

1. Arlanda Express Train

• Details:

  • High-speed train connecting the airport to Stockholm Central Station.

  • Trains depart every 10-15 minutes.

• Travel Time: ~18 minutes.

• Cost: SEK 299 (one-way adult ticket).

• Advantages:

  • Fastest and most convenient option for reaching central Stockholm.

2. Commuter Trains (SL Pendeltåg)

• Details:

  • Regional trains connecting ARN to Stockholm and nearby cities.

  • Access via SkyCity in the terminal area.

• Travel Time: ~38 minutes to Stockholm Central Station.

• Cost: Starting at SEK 125 (one-way).

3. Flygbussarna Airport Coaches

• Details:

  • Bus services connecting ARN to central Stockholm and other destinations.

• Travel Time: ~45-50 minutes.

• Cost: Starting at SEK 99 (one-way).

4. Taxi and Rideshare

• Taxi:

  • Travel time: ~40 minutes to Stockholm city center.

  • Cost: SEK 450-600, depending on traffic and time of day.

• Rideshare:

  • Uber operates at designated pickup zones, often at competitive prices.

5. Car Rentals

• Providers:

  • Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, and Budget.

• Pickup/Drop-off: Located in the airport’s parking areas near SkyCity.

Parking at Stockholm Arlanda Airport

1. Short-Term Parking (P2, P21)

• Details:

  • Located close to the terminals for quick access.

• Cost: Starting at SEK 50/hour.

2. Long-Term Parking (Alpha, Beta)

• Details:

  • Budget-friendly options with shuttle buses to the terminals.

• Cost: Starting at SEK 120/day.

3. Premium Parking

• Details:

  • Closest parking spaces to the terminal entrances, with valet service available.

• Cost: Starting at SEK 400/day.

4. Electric Vehicle Parking

• Details:

  • Charging stations available in all parking areas.

• Cost: Charging fees apply in addition to parking rates.

Dining and Shopping Options

Dining at ARN

• Local Swedish Cuisine:

  • Kitchen & Table: Nordic-inspired dishes by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson.

  • Fjällnäs: Serves classic Swedish dishes, including meatballs and salmon.

• International Dining:

  • Max Burgers: Sweden’s iconic fast-food chain.

  • O’Learys: American-style sports bar and grill.

• Quick Bites:

  • Espresso House: Perfect for coffee and pastries.

  • Joe & The Juice: Fresh juices and light snacks.

Shopping at ARN

• Duty-Free:

  • Large selection of alcohol, cosmetics, and confectionery.

• Luxury Brands:

  • Hugo Boss, Rituals, and Longchamp.

• Local Specialties:

  • Shops like Designtorget and Lagerhaus offer Swedish design and gifts.

• Essentials:

  • Pressbyrån for books, snacks, and travel necessities.

Lounges at Stockholm Arlanda Airport

1. SAS Lounge (Terminal 5)

• Access: Available to SAS Business Class passengers, Star Alliance Gold members, and pay-per-use.

• Features:

  • Buffet dining, beverages, and comfortable seating.

  • Workspaces and shower facilities.

2. Aurora Lounge (Terminal 2)

• Access: Pay-per-use or Priority Pass members.

• Features:

  • Snacks, drinks, and panoramic runway views.

  • Relaxation areas with Scandinavian-inspired design.

3. Menzies Executive Lounge (Terminal 5)

• Access: Open to all passengers for a fee.

• Features:

  • Complimentary snacks, premium drinks, and business facilities.

Nearby Hotels

1. Radisson Blu Arlandia Hotel

• Distance: 5 minutes by shuttle bus.

• Features:

  • Modern rooms, fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.

2. Clarion Hotel Arlanda Airport

• Distance: Connected to the airport via SkyCity.

• Features:

  • Stylish rooms, conference facilities, and a rooftop bar.

3. Jumbo Stay

• Distance: 5 minutes by shuttle bus.

• Features:

  • Unique accommodations inside a converted Boeing 747.

Top Tips for Travelers at Stockholm Arlanda Airport

1. Arrive Early: Allow at least 2 hours for European flights and 3 hours for long-haul flights.

2. Take the Arlanda Express: The fastest way to reach central Stockholm.

3. Explore Swedish Cuisine: Don’t miss traditional dishes like Swedish meatballs or cinnamon buns.

4. Utilize Free Wi-Fi: Unlimited and reliable Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.

5. Shop Local: Pick up iconic Swedish gifts like Dala horses or lingonberry jam.