How to Buy SL Tickets in Stockholm: A Complete Guide

If you’re visiting Stockholm and plan to use public transport, you’ll need a valid SL (Storstockholms Lokaltrafik) ticket. Stockholm’s extensive network includes metro, buses, trams, commuter trains, and some ferries, all operated by SL, making it easy to get around without a car.

This guide explains every way to purchase a ticket, from the convenient mobile app to using your credit card directly at the gate.

Quick Facts

Best for: Tourists, residents, daily commuters
Ticket options: Single journey (75 min), 24/72-hour travelcards, 7/30-day passes
Purchase methods: SL app, contactless payment, ticket machines, convenience stores
Safety tip: Always validate your ticket at the green reader before boarding to avoid a 1,850 SEK fine.

1. Using Contactless Payment (Tap and Go)

Best for: Occasional travelers and short-term tourists on a budget.

The simplest way to travel is using a contactless bank card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) or a mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay). You don’t need to download anything or buy a physical card.

How it works:

Simply tap your card or device on the green reader at metro turnstiles, on buses, or at tram stops.
Each tap purchases a single journey ticket valid for 75 minutes.
You will only be charged for what you use, but note that it doesn’t automatically “cap” to the price of a day pass.
Important: Digital wallets and physical cards are treated as separate tickets. Use the same one if you transfer!

2. Buying Tickets with the SL App

Best for: Everyone. It’s the official and most versatile method.

The official app, “SL: Reseplanerare och biljetter”, is available for both iOS and Android. It allows you to buy all types of tickets and plan your route in real-time.

Step-by-Step:

Download the SL app from the App Store or Google Play.
Select “Tickets” and choose your duration (Single, 24h, 72h, or 30-day).
Pay via credit card, Swish, or Apple/Google Pay.
To enter the metro, show the QR code to the reader at the far-right gate or the glass booth. On buses, scan it at the front.

3. The SL Smart Card (The Green Card)

Best for: Long-term residents or visitors staying more than 3 days.

The “Gröna kortet” is a reusable physical smart card that costs 50 SEK. You can “load” it with season tickets (7-day, 30-day, or 1-year passes) at any ticket machine or SL Center.

Where to buy and top up:

SL Centers: Located at Stockholm Central, Slussen, and Fridhemsplan.
Retailers: Pressbyrån and 7-Eleven shops display the SL logo.
Ticket Machines: Found in almost every metro and commuter train station.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a ticket with cash on the bus?
No. Stockholm’s public transport is completely cash-free. You must have a ticket before you board, or use contactless payment.

How long is a single ticket valid?
A single ticket (app or contactless) is valid for 75 minutes. You can transfer between any number of buses, trains, and metros within this window.

Do children travel for free?
Children under 7 travel free with an adult. On weekends (from Friday noon to Sunday), children under 12 travel free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Final Thoughts

Buying SL tickets in Stockholm is straightforward once you know your options. For most visitors, the SL App or Contactless Payment are the best choices. If you plan to stay a week or more, investing in a physical Green Card with a 7-day or 30-day pass will save you the most money.