If you have a layover at Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), don’t worry about the lack of nap pods; there are plenty of other options to get some rest. Here’s a helpful guide tailored to different layover durations, ensuring you can make the most of your time at the airport.
Spots for Sleeping in Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)
SkyCity (Between Terminals 4 and 5)
- Best For: Overnight Layovers, Long Layovers (6-12 hours)
- Description: This area above the in-airport train station features plenty of comfy sofas, armchairs, and ample plug sockets. It’s quiet with considerate fellow sleepers and regular security patrols. However, it can get warm, and the early sunrise can be a disturbance, so eye covers are recommended. The nearby McDonald’s opens at 6 AM, providing a convenient breakfast option.
Terminal 5, Gate F30
- Best For: Short Layovers (30 mins – 1 hour), Standard Layovers (1-3 hours)
- Description: Near Gate F30, you’ll find light-colored sofas next to Ritazza Caffe. Despite the intermittent loudspeaker noise, using earphones with ambient music can help. The area is suitable for a good sleep until around 5 AM when café workers arrive.
Terminal 4, Airside
- Best For: Standard Layovers (1-3 hours), Extended Layovers (3-6 hours)
- Description: Terminal 4 offers a chic ambiance with multiple charging stations, restrooms, and benches without armrests. The parquet flooring and dim lighting make it a good place to rest. However, the temperature can be quite low, so warm clothing or insulation is necessary. Earplugs are also recommended due to the noisy cleaning procedures around 2 AM.
Terminal 5, Gates F33-F37
- Best For: Overnight Layovers, Long Layovers (6-12 hours)
- Description: This section of Terminal 5 is very quiet and warm, especially near Gates F33 to F37. There are various seating areas and benches where you can lay down comfortably. It’s a great option for an undisturbed sleep if you have an early flight.
McDonald’s Area in SkyCity
- Best For: Short Layovers (30 mins – 1 hour), Extended Layovers (3-6 hours)
- Description: The area around McDonald’s in SkyCity provides comfy sofas and benches. Although it can be noisy due to its proximity to the train station, it offers fast and unlimited WiFi. This spot is particularly convenient for those who need to charge their devices and prefer a warmer environment.
Terminal 5, Gate F41
- Best For: Overnight Layovers, Extended Layovers (3-6 hours)
- Description: Gate F41 in Terminal 5 is often quiet with no flights during the night or early morning. It’s a good spot for uninterrupted sleep. The free WiFi is limited to 3 hours, but Eduroam users can enjoy a stronger connection.
SkyCity Sofas
- Best For: Standard Layovers (1-3 hours), Long Layovers (6-12 hours)
- Description: The sofas in SkyCity are very comfortable, like beds, and there are plenty of outlets for charging devices. The area is quiet, with dim lighting and no announcements, making it ideal for a good night’s sleep.
Terminal 5, Rest and Fly Hotel Area
- Best For: Short Layovers (30 mins – 1 hour), Standard Layovers (1-3 hours)
- Description: While not using the Rest and Fly hotel, the benches in front of it provide a quiet and comfortable spot to sleep. The area is close to outlets for charging devices, and it remains quiet from 11 PM to 5 AM.
O’Leary’s Sports Bar Area
- Best For: Short Layovers (30 mins – 1 hour), Standard Layovers (1-3 hours)
- Description: The area below O’Leary’s sports bar has wooden benches and tables. Although it can be noisy, it’s a decent spot to rest, especially if you’re looking to save on hotel costs before an early morning flight.
Terminal 5, General Seating
- Best For: Short Layovers (30 mins – 1 hour), Standard Layovers (1-3 hours)
- Description: The general seating areas in Terminal 5 have lots of benches and chairs without armrests. Despite the occasional interruptions by staff and cleaners, these areas can offer a decent place to sleep if you prepare adequately with warm clothing and possibly a sleeping bag.
Recommendations
- For Short Layovers (30 mins – 1 hour): Terminal 5, Gate F30 or McDonald’s Area in SkyCity.
- For Standard Layovers (1-3 hours): Terminal 4, Airside or Terminal 5, Rest and Fly Hotel Area.
- For Extended Layovers (3-6 hours): Terminal 4, Airside or Terminal 5, Gate F41.
- For Long Layovers (6-12 hours): Terminal 5, Gates F33-F37 or SkyCity Sofas.
- For Overnight Layovers: SkyCity (Between Terminals 4 and 5) or Terminal 5, Gates F33-F37.
These spots offer varying levels of comfort and quiet, ensuring a restful layover experience at Stockholm Arlanda Airport.
Sleep Recommendations based on Layover Durations:
Short Layovers (30 mins to 1 hour)
For short layovers, your best bet is to stay close to your gate. Terminals 4 and 5 have plenty of seating areas with charging stations. This way, you can relax and recharge your devices without straying too far from your departure gate. It’s all about convenience and making the most of limited time.
Standard Layovers (1 to 3 hours)
If you have a bit more time, head over to SkyCity, located between Terminals 4 and 5. This area offers a variety of comfy sofas and armchairs, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind. It’s quiet, safe, and equipped with numerous plug sockets and reliable WiFi, ensuring you can stay entertained and comfortable during your wait.
Extended Layovers (3 to 6 hours)
For a layover of this length, finding a more comfortable spot becomes essential. Terminal 5, particularly around Gate F30 and Gates F33-37, is perfect for this. These areas have soft sofas and a relatively quiet environment. You might hear some noise from cleaning machines or loudspeakers, but using earplugs or headphones can help mitigate these disturbances. Plus, you’ll find cafes and food options nearby to keep you refreshed.
Long Layovers (6 to 12 hours)
When you’re facing a longer layover, comfort becomes crucial. SkyCity remains a top choice with its comfortable seating and ample amenities like free WiFi and numerous charging stations. Alternatively, the seating areas near Gates F33-37 in Terminal 5 offer a peaceful environment, especially during the night when fewer flights are operating. It can get chilly, so be sure to bring warm clothing or a blanket to stay cozy.
Overnight Layovers (12 to 24 hours)
For overnight stays, SkyCity continues to be a prime spot due to its combination of comfort and amenities. Alternatively, consider the benches and seating areas in Terminal 5 near Gates F33-41. These areas are generally quiet and provide enough space to lay down. However, it’s essential to be prepared for colder temperatures at night. Some travelers have also had good experiences sleeping in cafes or on benches with comfortable seating in SkyCity, noting that arriving early helps secure the best spots.
Overnight Layover Sleep Options: Nearby Hotels
If you prefer a more conventional sleeping arrangement, several nearby hotels offer free shuttle services to and from the airport:
- Comfort Hotel Arlanda Airport Terminal: Connected to SkyCity, this hotel offers modern amenities and great convenience.
- Clarion Hotel Arlanda Airport Terminal: Located between Terminals 4 and 5, it provides excellent facilities, including complimentary breakfast and easy terminal access.
- Radisson Blu Airport Terminal Hotel: Within walking distance of all terminals, this hotel is ideal for both short rests and longer stays, with options for day rooms.
These hotels ensure a seamless transition between the terminal and your resting place, providing a comfortable stay without needing to leave the airport grounds.
By following this guide, you can ensure a restful and comfortable experience at Stockholm Arlanda Airport, no matter the length of your layover.
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