Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Halmstad gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from HAD to the city takes roughly 50 minutes by Local Bus Line 301, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside HAD
Before heading into Halmstad, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Sweden vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Halmstad is roughly 50 minutes from HAD via Local Bus Line 301. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in SEK. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Halmstad Airport into town:
- Local Bus Line 301: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Halmstad layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$8 |
| Meal | ~$15 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$33 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Halmstad.
Luggage Storage at HAD
Luggage storage is available at Unlikely to have dedicated luggage storage/lockers due to the airport’s small size.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Halmstad.
How to Spend Your Time in Halmstad
If you head into Halmstad, here are two things worth checking out:
Halmstad Castle (Halmstads Slott) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Picassoparken and Nissan River Walk is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at HAD, check out Quiet Waiting Area or Halmstad Local Information Browsing to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Restaurang Josefin and Pinchos Halmstad are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Halmstad.
- At the airport: Flygrestaurangen Halmstad Airport and Airport Kiosk (Snacks & Drinks) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Need a Nap? Options at HAD
Long overnight layover? Your options at HAD include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Sweden also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at HAD for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Halmstad or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Halmstad count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave HAD. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.