Stockholm to Gothenburg by Train

The route

Trains run on the Western Main Line (Västra stambanan) from Stockholm Central through Södertälje, Katrineholm and Hallsberg, then across the farmland of Västergötland via Skövde and Alingsås to Gothenburg Central. The fastest trains make few stops and take around 3 hours; regional trains with more stops take longer.

SJ runs high-speed trains on the route, and MTRX runs a competing service, so it is worth comparing prices. You can compare departures and book Stockholm–Gothenburg tickets on Omio.

Train, bus or plane?

Flights take about an hour but the airports are well outside both cities, so the train is usually as quick door to door. Long-distance coaches take around 6.5 to 7 hours and are the cheapest option.

Tips

• Book early: fares rise as trains fill, especially on Friday and Sunday afternoons.
• Quiet carriages: SJ trains have quiet zones; the food car sells snacks and hot meals.
• Arriving in Gothenburg: Central Station is next to the Nordstan shopping centre and a short walk from the canals. See our Gothenburg map.

How long is the train from Stockholm to Gothenburg?

The fastest trains take about 3 hours; most take between 3 and 3.5 hours.

Which companies run trains from Stockholm to Gothenburg?

SJ and MTRX both run direct trains between the two cities.

Is it better to take the train or fly from Stockholm to Gothenburg?

The train takes about 3 hours city centre to city centre, which is usually as fast as flying once airport transfers are included.