Uppsala Centralstation

How to Get to Uppsala Centralstation

Uppsala is conveniently connected to Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), which is the primary international gateway. Note that Uppsala’s public transport system, operated by UL, has abolished zones; your ticket is valid for 75 minutes of travel throughout the entire network.

From Airport (Stockholm Arlanda - ARN)

The airport is approximately 35 km south of Uppsala.

• Train: The fastest route. Take the commuter or regional trains (Mälartåg or SL) directly from Arlanda Central Station (located in SkyCity between Terminals 4 and 5).
  • Time: ~20 minutes.
  • Cost: You must purchase a ticket for the journey plus an "Arlanda passage fee." The passage fee is ~€14 (157 SEK). Use the UL app to buy a combined ticket or pay the passage fee at the station barriers.
• Bus: Line 801 runs frequently from outside the terminals.
  • Time: ~45 minutes.
  • Cost: ~€11 (120 SEK).
• Payment: Cash is not accepted. Use the UL app (highly recommended) or pay with a contactless credit/debit card on board. All ticket machines have an English language option.

From City Center

Uppsala is compact and very walkable. If you are staying in the city center:

• Walking: Most central hotels are within a 5–15 minute walk of the station.
• Local Bus: If you have luggage, city buses (numbered 1–31) run frequently to the "Resecentrum" (Travel Centre) adjacent to the train station. A 75-minute ticket costs ~€3.60 (40 SEK).

By Taxi

• Time: Approximately 30 minutes from Arlanda.
• Cost: Expect to pay around €45–€50 (approx. 500 SEK). Always confirm a fixed price with the driver before starting your journey. Licensed companies include Uppsala Taxi and Taxi Kurir.

Uppsala Centralstation is a modern, bright, and efficient transport hub, often referred to as the "Travel Centre" (Resecentrum). Unlike sprawling multi-level mega-stations, Uppsala features a straightforward, compact layout that is easy to navigate once you understand the basic flow. The station operates as a through station on the East Coast Line, with eight primary tracks (numbered 1–8) arranged in a single row.

Think of the station as a long, horizontal transit spine. The main station building connects directly to a wide, central underpass that provides access to all platforms. Because the station has only eight main tracks, it is very manageable; you will not need to navigate complex vertical levels or distant terminal wings. Whether you are arriving on a regional train or the frequent commuter rail from Stockholm, all platforms are accessed via this central underpass, which is equipped with elevators and escalators for easy movement with luggage.

For travelers heading north of Stockholm, your train will typically depart from the northbound-facing platforms. Electronic display boards are positioned throughout the main hall and the underpass; these are your best friends. They are highly reliable and will clearly indicate the platform number for your specific train. If you are arriving from Stockholm, you will likely disembark on the platforms serving the southbound/commuter lines.

The most common point of confusion for first-time visitors is not the layout itself, but the transition between the modern station and the surrounding bus terminal. The station integrates rail and regional bus services under one roof. The exit to the east leads you directly to the extensive bus terminal, while the exit to the west opens into the historic city center. If you are connecting to a bus, simply follow the clear signage for "Bussterminal" within the station.

Given the compact size of the station, you do not need to worry about long walking times between platforms. Even if you arrive at one end of the station and need to transfer to a train at the other, you can comfortably navigate the entire area in under five minutes. Just ensure you arrive at the station at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow yourself time to find your platform and enjoy the modern facilities.

Uppsala Centralstation (Resecentrum) is a modern, efficient hub, but navigating a new transit system can be stressful. I wish someone had told me these specifics before my first trip to avoid the common pitfalls I encountered.

Before You Arrive

• Download the Apps: Don't rely on generic international apps. Download the UL app for all local transit (buses and commuter trains within Uppsala county) and the SJ app if you are taking long-distance regional trains.
• Ticket Strategy: Avoid queues by buying tickets in the apps before you arrive. If you must use a machine, head to the dedicated UL or SJ machines. While you can buy tickets on some local buses, avoid the stress and have your digital ticket ready before you board.
• Expect a Modern Layout: Don't worry about the station being a confusing maze. It is a bright, well-organized building that connects trains and buses under one roof. The layout is simple, with a wide underpass featuring lifts and escalators for barrier-free access to all platforms.

At the Station

• Facilities: The station offers free WiFi under the network name "All Station Guests." For luggage, there are automated Speed Locker systems that accept credit card payments.
• Toilets: There are paid public washrooms available in the station. Expect to pay a small fee (typically 5–10 SEK) via coin or card.
• Food: Skip the expensive main hall kiosks if you have time. The station and its immediate vicinity have several cafes and shops where you can grab a quick bite or a traditional fika before your journey.

Common Mistakes

• The Ticket Trap: The biggest mistake is buying the wrong ticket. If traveling between Stockholm and Uppsala, remember that SL tickets (Stockholm) and UL tickets (Uppsala) are different. You need a combined ticket if your journey covers both regions. Always check the app for a combined ticket to avoid being fined.
• Platform Changes: Don't assume your platform is set in stone hours before departure. Check the electronic displays in the main hall 20–30 minutes before your train leaves; platform changes can and do happen.
• Validate Your Ticket: If you are using a physical ticket rather than an app, ensure it is activated before boarding. Inspectors are strict, and an unactivated ticket is considered invalid.

Through station serving Uppsala, Sweden. Originally opened in 1866, the station underwent a major transformation with the inauguration of the modern Resecentrum (Travel Centre) in 2011, which integrated railway and bus services into a single hub. It currently serves as a vital transit point for regional and local commuter trains, including frequent connections to Stockholm and Arlanda Airport. While the historic 1866 building remains a protected cultural landmark, the operational station is a modern, efficient facility.

For first-time international travelers, the station is not large or overwhelming. It features a straightforward layout designed for clear navigation. The main hall connects to the platforms via a wide, well-signposted underpass equipped with elevators and escalators, making it fully accessible. You will find electronic display boards throughout the station providing real-time information in English.

To ensure a smooth experience, keep in mind that platform assignments are typically finalized 30 to 60 minutes before departure; check the digital screens upon arrival rather than relying on early online information. The station is compact enough that you do not need to arrive hours in advance, but allowing 20 minutes before your scheduled departure will provide ample time to locate your platform and board without feeling rushed.