Driving in Sweden: tips on rules, fines and relaxed travelling
Driving in Sweden is a dream! Wide roads, relaxed road users and breathtaking landscapes ensure that every journey is an experience. But before you hit the roads, there are a few things you should definitely know - from speed limits to the congestion charge. We have compiled the most important tips and facts for you.
General: Switch on the lights and go!
Did you know that left-hand traffic prevailed in Sweden until 1967? It wasn't until 3 September of that year that all traffic was switched to right-hand traffic within ten minutes. An impressive endeavour, wasn't it? Today, the roads in Sweden are well developed, but away from the cities you can often expect unsurfaced gravel roads, so-called Grusväger. Don't worry, you can drive on most of these roads in any vehicle without any problems.
Attention: In Sweden, lights are compulsory - you must switch on your dipped headlights or daytime running lights even during the day. If you forget to switch them on, you could be fined around €130.
Speed: Relaxed, but strict
Similar speed limits apply in Sweden as in Germany:
- Inner cityMostly 50 km/h, but often reduced to 40 km/h or 30 km/h.
- Out of town70 to 100 km/h, depending on the road.
- MotorwaysMaximum 120 km/h, but mostly 110 km/h.
The penalties for speeding are high: just 1 km/h too fast can cost €250 in urban areas. Out of town, the fine is up to €200. And yes, you should also stick to the limits on the dead-straight roads - crossing game with a moose can be life-threatening.
Drinking and driving: zero tolerance
The Swedes can't take a joke when it comes to drink-driving. You risk losing your driving licence from as little as 0.2 per mille. Accidents under the influence of alcohol can result in up to six years in prison. Our tip: Leave the car behind after an after-work beer.
Fines: Expensive pleasure
Traffic offences in Sweden can quickly become expensive:
- Parking offences: 70-120 €
- Mobile phone at the wheelAround 250 €
- Disregarding a stop signAbout 250 €
Congestion charge and bridges
In Stockholm and Gothenburg there is a city toll, which is recorded by a licence plate scanner. The cost is between SEK 9 and 30 depending on the time of day. However, you pay a maximum of SEK 105 per day. The bridges in Motala and Sundsvall charge tolls - but moderately, between SEK 9 and 11.
Refuelling: automatic filling stations in the wilderness
You will find many unmanned petrol stations in Sweden. You can easily pay by credit card there. EC cards don't always work, so it's better to be safe than sorry.
Our conclusion:
Driving in Sweden is a relaxed pleasure - if you stick to the rules. Allow yourself the freedom to explore the country on your own and enjoy the spectacular nature. Your own vehicle is often the best choice, as public transport is rare outside the cities.
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