Getting from Arlanda Airport to Stockholm with kids and family

Arlanda is 40 km from Stockholm, which is a long way when you have tired children, car seats, and a pile of luggage. Here is what actually works for families.

The main challenge

The distance is the issue. The 18-minute Arlanda Express ride is fine with kids, but you still need to get from Stockholm Central to your hotel with all your bags. A taxi or transfer takes 35-50 minutes door to door, which is often easier overall despite the longer ride time.

Transport options for families

Arlanda Express works well for families with older children and light luggage. The train has space for bags and strollers, and the non-stop 18-minute ride is short enough to keep kids calm. It is also cheaper for families than it first looks: the operator publishes SEK 160 for a child single (0-17) against SEK 340 for an adult, and children travel free with an adult ticket holder. The challenge comes at Stockholm Central, which involves stairs, escalators, and a walk to find onward transport.

Flygbussarna coaches are manageable but not ideal with small children. Strollers go in the luggage hold below. The 40-50 minute ride can feel long for restless kids, and the bus makes a few stops.

Taxi is the most practical option for most families. Door-to-door service means no transfers, no stairs, and no navigating stations, and Swedavia caps what its contracted companies may charge within the marked zone — roughly SEK 800 for 1-4 passengers — so there is a known ceiling. Ask for the fixed price before you get in. The catch is that taxis at the rank do not carry child seats.

Pre-booked transfer is the best option for families with young children. You can request child seats (infant, toddler, or booster) when booking. The driver meets you at arrivals, helps with luggage, and takes you directly to your accommodation. The price is fixed when you book — get a quote for a sedan and a minivan and compare them against the taxi cap.

Child seats in Sweden

Swedish law requires children under 135 cm to use an appropriate child restraint in vehicles. This applies to taxis too, though enforcement in taxis is inconsistent. Standard taxis at the airport rank almost never have child seats available. If your children need car seats, either bring your own or book a transfer with seats included.

Many transfer services offer:

• Infant seats (rear-facing, 0-13 kg)
• Toddler seats (9-18 kg)
• Booster seats (15-36 kg)

Specify the type and number when booking.

Strollers and heavy luggage

The Arlanda Express handles strollers well. There is space near the doors and between seats. Flygbussarna stores them in the luggage hold. For taxis and transfers, a sedan fits one stroller plus two large bags comfortably. If you have a double stroller, extra bags, or bulky items, book a minivan.

Practical tips for families at Arlanda

• There are baby changing facilities in all terminals
• The SkyCity area between Terminals 4 and 5 has a play area and food options
• Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport keeps older kids occupied during waits
• If you need to feed or change a baby before heading to the city, take your time in the terminal. It is cleaner and calmer than trying to manage it during transport
• Swedish pharmacies (Apotek) at the airport stock basic children's medicines and supplies

The honest recommendation

For families with children under 6, a pre-booked transfer with child seats is the clear winner. It costs more than a taxi, but it is the only way to have proper car seats fitted before you land, plus help with luggage and a driver who is expecting you — get the quote and decide with the number in front of you. For families with older children who are comfortable walking and carrying their own bags, the Arlanda Express is fast and easy, and children travel free with an adult ticket.