Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Sundsvall gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from SDL to the city takes roughly 50 minutes by Bus Line 120, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at SDL:
First, verify that you can enter Sweden — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Bus Line 120 takes about 50 minutes into Sundsvall, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — SEK is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some SEK in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Sundsvall-Härnösand Airport to Downtown
From SDL, the Bus Line 120 gets you to Sundsvall in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Bus Line 120 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Sundsvall layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$7 |
| Meal | ~$14 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$31 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at SDL aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Sundsvall itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Exploring Sundsvall on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Sundsvall, two standouts are:
- City Center Walk — No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
- Local Market — The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SDL, you can spend time at Airport Lounge or try Duty Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near SDL
- In the city: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Sundsvall.
- At the airport: Airport Cafe and Terminal Restaurant will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at SDL 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
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SDL is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Sundsvall and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sundsvall is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Sundsvall.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.