Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Vasteras. Stockholm VästerÃ¥s Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of VST:
- Can you legally enter Sweden? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 50-minute journey each way by Local bus (e.g., Line 3) to VästerÃ¥s Travel Center, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the SEK. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some SEK in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Stockholm Västerås Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Stockholm Västerås Airport into town:
- Local bus (e.g., Line 3) to Västerås Travel Center: 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Vasteras
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Vasteras, two standouts are:
- VästerÃ¥s Castle — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- VästerÃ¥s Cathedral — A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside VST — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- VST Airport Terminal Lounge Area
- Airport Shop VST
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Vasteras: Frank Bistro and Limone Ristorante Italiano. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Restaurang VST or VST Airport Café & Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Vasteras:
Transport to the city and back runs about $7 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $14 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $31 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Vasteras.
Bag Storage Near VST
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At VST, you’ll find bag storage at Luggage storage/lockers are typically not available at small regional airports like VST..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at VST for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Vasteras 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.
Need a Nap? Options at VST
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at VST, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Vasteras exploring the streets or relaxing at VST, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.