Sundsvall

๐ŸšŒ

Transportation

Public and private transportation options, including buses, trains, and car rentals.

Sections

1. Public Transportation in Sundsvall

Public transportation in Sundsvall is primarily managed by Din Tur, the regional public transport authority for Vรคsternorrland County. Din Tur operates buses within Sundsvall and the surrounding areas, as well as regional buses and trains connecting Sundsvall to other towns and cities.

A. City Buses

  • Coverage: Sundsvallโ€™s city buses connect key areas, including the city center, residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and major landmarks like the university and hospital.
  • Routes: The bus network is well-organized, with routes clearly numbered and color-coded. Popular routes include those serving the city center (Stenstan), Sundsvall Central Station, and the Norra Berget recreational area.
  • Frequency: Buses run frequently during peak hours (every 10โ€“15 minutes) and less often during evenings and weekends (every 30โ€“60 minutes).

B. Regional Buses

  • Regional buses connect Sundsvall to nearby towns such as Timrรฅ, Hรคrnรถsand, and ร–stersund. These buses are ideal for day trips or commuting to nearby areas.

C. Trains

  • Sundsvall is a major hub for train travel in northern Sweden. The Sundsvall Central Station (Sundsvall C) is served by SJ (Swedish Railways) and Norrtรฅg, offering connections to Stockholm, Umeรฅ, and other cities.
  • Commuter Trains: Norrtรฅg operates commuter trains between Sundsvall and nearby towns like Timrรฅ and Hรคrnรถsand.

2. Ticketing System

Din Tur uses a unified ticketing system for buses and regional trains within Vรคsternorrland County. Tickets can be purchased in several ways:

A. Ticket Options

  1. Single Tickets:
    • Valid for a specific journey.
    • Prices vary depending on the distance traveled. A single ticket within Sundsvall typically costs around 25โ€“35 SEK for adults.
  2. Day Passes:
    • Unlimited travel within a 24-hour period.
    • Costs approximately 80โ€“100 SEK.
  3. Monthly Passes:
    • Ideal for frequent travelers, offering unlimited travel within a specific zone.
    • Prices start at around 700 SEK for adults for travel within Sundsvall.
  4. Discounts:
    • Children (under 20), students, and seniors (65+) are eligible for discounted fares.

B. How to Buy Tickets

  • Mobile App: The Din Tur app is the most convenient way to purchase tickets. It allows you to buy single tickets, day passes, and monthly passes.
  • Onboard: You can buy single tickets directly from the bus driver using a credit/debit card (cash is not accepted).
  • Ticket Machines: Located at major bus stops and train stations.
  • Retailers: Some convenience stores and kiosks sell Din Tur tickets.

C. Ticket Validation

  • Tickets purchased via the app are automatically validated.
  • If you buy a paper ticket, you must validate it by showing it to the driver or scanning it at the onboard machine.

3. Costs

  • City Bus Fare: 25โ€“35 SEK for a single trip.
  • Regional Bus Fare: Varies based on distance; typically 50โ€“150 SEK for nearby towns.
  • Train Fare: Regional train tickets start at around 50 SEK for short trips, while longer journeys (e.g., Sundsvall to Stockholm) can cost 300โ€“600 SEK depending on the class and time of booking.

4. Schedules

  • City Buses: Operate from around 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM on weekdays, with reduced service on weekends.
  • Regional Buses and Trains: Timetables vary by route, but most services run from early morning to late evening.
  • Real-Time Updates: Use the Din Tur app or website to check real-time schedules and delays.

5. Accessibility

Sundsvallโ€™s public transportation system is designed to be accessible to all passengers:

  • Low-Floor Buses: Most city buses are equipped with low floors and ramps for wheelchair users and strollers.
  • Priority Seating: Designated seats are available for seniors, pregnant individuals, and passengers with disabilities.
  • Audio and Visual Announcements: Stops are announced both audibly and visually on buses and trains.
  • Assistance: If you need help boarding or alighting, drivers are generally accommodating.

6. Other Transportation Options

A. Taxis

  • Taxis are widely available in Sundsvall but are more expensive than public transport. Major companies include Taxi Sundsvall and Taxi Kurir.
  • Cost: Starting fare is around 50โ€“70 SEK, with additional charges per kilometer. Always confirm the fare before starting your journey.

B. Biking

  • Sundsvall is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and scenic cycling routes.
  • Bike Rentals: Available at local shops and through bike-sharing services.
  • Tip: Wear a helmet and use bike lights during darker months, as itโ€™s both a safety measure and a legal requirement.

C. Walking

  • The city center (Stenstan) is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking a convenient and enjoyable way to explore Sundsvall.

D. Car Rentals

  • Renting a car is a good option for exploring the countryside or traveling to remote areas. Major rental companies like Hertz and Europcar operate in Sundsvall.

7. Local Tips and Considerations

  1. Punctuality: Public transportation in Sundsvall is generally reliable and punctual. Arrive at the stop a few minutes early to avoid missing your bus or train.
  2. Weather Preparedness: Winters in Sundsvall can be harsh, so dress warmly and allow extra time for travel during snowy conditions.
  3. Cultural Norms:
    • Queueing is important in Sweden. Always wait your turn when boarding buses or trains.
    • Keep noise levels low on public transport to respect other passengers.
  4. Cashless Society: Sweden is largely cashless, so ensure you have a credit/debit card or mobile payment app for purchasing tickets.
  5. Plan Ahead: Use the Din Tur app or website to plan your journey and check for service updates, especially during holidays or extreme weather.

8. Useful Resources

  • Din Tur Website: www.dintur.se (available in English)
  • Din Tur App: Downloadable on iOS and Android for schedules, ticket purchases, and real-time updates.
  • SJ Website: www.sj.se for train bookings and schedules.

By using this guide, you should be well-prepared to navigate Sundsvallโ€™s transportation system efficiently and confidently. Enjoy your time in this charming Swedish city!