Country Profile Part 5: Transportation

Water Transportation
          Since Sweden is bordered by a large amount of water, numerous ports and harbors can be found along the coastline. These ships are mainly used for carrying shipments of goods into or out of the country, but there are a number of ferries which transport visitors around Sweden and the surrounding countries. Ferry tickets can be bought as a round-trip tour, or as a one-way ticket to get from a city to, say, a small fishing village. It is also common to use the ferries to travel to/from Norway, Finland, Denmark, and other areas.

Land Transportation 
            Sweden has a rather extensive and well-maintained railway system. SInce public transportation is encouraged, most cities can be reached by train. In the far north, it is sometimes necessary to take a bus or car in addition to the train because of the many small villages. In Sweden's second largest city, Gothenburg, the tram (streetcar) system is very well-known and frequented by both residents and visitors. The Gothenburg tram is the most extensive tram network in Northern Europe. Stockholm, the capital city, replaced its tram system with the Metro (train/subway network) although this is just as successful. Sweden puts a large emphasis on public transportation in order to stay environmentally-friendly. When a train or tram is not an option, there are still buses, taxi-cabs, and locations where you may rent a car.
                Sweden also has good roadways, with high-speed motorways (similar to out expressways) which eliminate excessive traffic congestion. It is not uncommon to own a car in Sweden, or to rent one, but with all of the available public transportation many people choose not to do so.

Air transportation
              The two largest and most well-known airports in Sweden are in Stockholm and Gothenburg. When flying internationally, these are typically the airports used. The Stockholm-Arlanda airport is a "hub" for most domestic flights, and there are dozens of smaller regional airports as well. Though domestic flights are an enjoyable way to get around the country, many people find it easiest to take a train when oving from city to city.