Compare car hire prices from major providers in Stockholm with Road Genius. From compact cars to premium SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at low prices in convenient locations. Pick up at Arlanda Airport (ARN), Bromma (BMA) or city locations near T-Centralen, with extended hours at the airports. Watch for the weekday congestion tax when crossing central zones and book early for June to August to secure availability.
Location | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Stockholm City Centre | • No airport surcharges • Convenient if staying in the city first • Can use public transport while in city • Save on rental days |
• Limited operating hours (often 8 AM-6 PM weekdays) • Traffic and one-way streets in city centre • Navigation can be challenging for first-time visitors • Congestion tax when leaving city |
Arlanda Airport (ARN) | • Immediate car access on arrival • Wider vehicle selection • Extended hours for late arrivals • Direct access to highways |
• Airport surcharges (10-15% higher) • 40 km from city centre • 40 SEK infrastructure fee when exiting airport |
Bromma Airport (BMA) | • Closer to city centre (9 km) • Less busy than Arlanda • Quicker processing times |
• Limited rental companies • Fewer airline routes • Fewer vehicle options |
On average, car rentals in Stockholm cost around 604 kr per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from 369 kr per day.
Compare city vs airport pickup: City offices can be cheaper than Arlanda, which adds 10-15% airport surcharges plus a 40 SEK exit fee. Use Stockholm’s transit first, then pick up the car when you leave the city to cut rental days.
Book early for summer: For June to August and holiday weeks, reserve 2-3 months ahead as prices jump 30-50%. Off-season, monitor prices and re-check closer to your date.
Time your driving to dodge congestion tax: Depart or return outside 6:30–18:29 on weekdays, or on weekends, to avoid up to about 135 SEK per day.
Pick a smaller car: Compacts are cheaper, use less fuel and are easier to park in areas like Södermalm, Kungsholmen and the city centre.
Play with dates and lengths: Compare different pickup/return times and check weekly rates, which can beat per day pricing even for 5-6 days.
Park and fuel smart: Use Park & Ride lots for 10-20 SEK/day instead of 30-50 SEK/hour in the city centre, and refuel outside the city centre where prices are lower.
Zone | Approximate Cost | Key Points |
---|---|---|
City Centre | Higher rates | Highest rates during business hours (Mon-Fri) |
Södermalm/Kungsholmen | Moderate rates | Less expensive than the city centre |
Outer Districts | Lower rates | More affordable but still regulated |
Car Parks | Higher rates | Options include NK, Gallerian, P-Huset Odenplan |
Park & Ride | Daily rates available | Located near subway stations in outer areas |
Residential permits required in many neighbourhoods
Current environmental zones mainly affect heavy vehicles
Get a rental to drive to:
Stockholm archipelago – Vaxholm, Värmdö
Drottningholm Palace – palace, gardens
Uppsala – cathedral
Sigtuna – town centre
How does the congestion tax work in Stockholm?
You have to pay the congestion tax when you drive across tax boundaries on weekdays between 6:30 AM and 6:29 PM. Cameras take a photo of your number plate, and the rental company will send the charge to you, usually adding an administration fee.
Is it necessary to have a car in Stockholm city centre?
Not for exploring the city centre. Stockholm has excellent public transport. A car is most useful when you want to explore beyond the city or reach places that are hard to get to by public transport.
Where can I find information about current traffic conditions?
The Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket) gives you real-time traffic updates. GPS navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze also show you what the traffic is like.
Can I park overnight on Stockholm streets?
Yes, but you should check the local signs carefully. Some streets have cleaning nights when you can't park, and you might need a permit in residential areas.
How do I avoid getting lost with Stockholm's island layout?
Use a GPS and follow the highway signs carefully. The main routes E4, E18 and E20 are well-marked to help you find your way around and through the city.
Are there any toll roads around Stockholm besides the congestion tax?
You have to pay a toll of about 4 SEK to cross the Skurubron bridge in Nacka (east of Stockholm). Apart from this bridge and the congestion tax, most roads around Stockholm are free.
Can I return my rental car outside business hours?
Yes, most companies let you return cars after hours using a key drop box. Ask your rental company for instructions on where to park the car and where to leave the keys.
What happens if I get a parking ticket?
The rental company will charge your credit card for the ticket and add an administration fee (about 300 SEK). If you find a ticket on your car, you can pay it yourself by following the directions on it. This may help you avoid the admin fee.