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Travel tips

Stockholm Travelcard vs Single Ticket for the Metro

Deciding between a travelcard and single tickets depends on how many stations you plan to visit. A 24-hour pass often saves money for a dedicated art tour.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

In short

  • Single tickets cost 43 SEK and last 75 minutes.
  • A 24-hour travelcard costs 180 SEK.
  • The travelcard pays for itself on your 5th ride.
In this article
  1. How much does a single ticket cost?
  2. When should you buy a 24-hour travelcard?
  3. Are single tickets better for short visits?
  4. How do you pay for the Stockholm Metro?
  5. What happens if you travel without a valid ticket?
  6. Can you use the travelcard for the whole network?

The Stockholm Metro spans 100 stations across three main lines. If you plan to spend the day hopping between art stations like T-Centralen and Solna Centrum, the right ticket saves you money. A single ticket gives you 75 minutes of travel, while a 24-hour travelcard offers unlimited access. Here is how to choose the best option for your visit.

How much does a single ticket cost?

A single adult ticket costs 43 SEK and is valid for 75 minutes of unlimited travel.

You can tap a contactless credit card on an SL ticket post to buy a single ticket instantly. Alternatively, use the SL app or buy a ticket from machines at the station. Discounted single fares for youth, students, and seniors cost 26 SEK.

When should you buy a 24-hour travelcard?

Buy the 180 SEK 24-hour travelcard if you plan to take five or more separate rides.

A single ticket lasts 75 minutes. If you spend time photographing stations and exit to explore above ground, you will likely need multiple tickets. Four single tickets cost 172 SEK, almost the price of a 24-hour pass. By your fifth ride, the travelcard saves you money.

Ticket TypeCost (Adult) Cost (Discount)
Single Ticket (75 min)43 SEK26 SEK
24-Hour Travelcard180 SEKNot specified in data
Tour photo
Photo: tour listing on Viator

Are single tickets better for short visits?

Yes, if you only plan to visit a few stations on a quick trip, single tickets are cheaper.

With 75 minutes of validity, one single ticket gives you time to see two or three stations without exiting the barriers. Tap your card once at 43 SEK, take the Blue Line to Kungsträdgården, and return within the time limit.

Escalators ascending in a subway station with textured, reddish-brown rock walls.
Stockholm: Underground Metro Art Ride with a Local1 h 30 min 4.5 (24)from $123

How do you pay for the Stockholm Metro?

You can pay using a contactless bank card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or the SL app.

Cash is not accepted on board or at the turnstiles. You must have a valid ticket before entering the gates. Tapping your card or phone is the fastest way to travel.

Tour photo
Photo: tour listing on Viator

What happens if you travel without a valid ticket?

Failure to show a valid ticket incurs a 1,850 SEK penalty fee plus the single ticket fare.

Ticket inspections are common. Always ensure your 75-minute window has not expired if you are using single tickets, or keep your travelcard active. Keep your phone charged if using a digital ticket.

Escalators ascending in a subway station with textured, reddish-brown rock walls.
Stockholm: Underground Metro Art Ride with a Local1 h 30 min 4.5 (24)from $123

Can you use the travelcard for the whole network?

Yes, a travelcard or single ticket covers the entire Stockholm Metro system.

You can travel across the Blue, Red, and Green lines. It also includes access to stations like Odenplan (Citybanan) as long as you stay within the SL network boundaries.

A modern subway station with wavy light fixtures resembling heartbeats or soundwaves.
Photo: tour listing on Viator

Questions travellers ask

Can I tap my credit card on the Stockholm Metro?

Yes. You can use a contactless credit card or smartphone with Apple Pay or Google Pay to tap directly at the turnstiles for a 43 SEK single ticket.

Does a 75-minute ticket allow transfers?

Yes. You can transfer between the Blue, Red, and Green lines as many times as you like within the 75-minute window for 43 SEK.

Do I need to buy a ticket for a guided tour?

Many guided tours include the metro ticket in the price, but others do not. Always check the specific tour inclusions before booking.

underground art ridefrom $123 on Viator
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