Gothenburg to Karlstad train with SJ

Tue, Sep 15
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Tågab
Västtrafik
VR
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
SJ
Tågab
Västtrafik
VR
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Gothenburg to Karlstad

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15

Cheapest price on Sep 15

€13

Average ticket price on Sep 15

€29

Fastest journey on Sep 15

2 h 24 m

Average journey duration on Sep 15

2 h 28 m

Trains on Sep 15

15

Distance

206 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Gothenburg to Karlstad is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Gothenburg to Karlstad will cost around €29 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €13.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 15, we found 15 trains from Gothenburg to Karlstad, including 5 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 206 km distance in an average of 2 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 24 m .

On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest trains will take 2 h 35 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • SJ3950 SJ
    5:14 AM2h27
    Gothenburg Centralstation
    7:41 AMKarlstad tågstation
    131One-way
    0 transfers
  • SJ3976 SJ
    7:14 PM2h24
    Gothenburg Centralstation
    9:38 PMKarlstad tågstation
    171One-way
    0 transfers
  • SJ3956 SJ · 63956 SJ
    9:14 AM2h39
    Gothenburg Centralstation
    11:53 AMKarlstad tågstation
    191One-way
    1 transfer
  • SJ3960 SJ · 63960 SJ
    11:14 AM2h39
    Gothenburg Centralstation
    1:53 PMKarlstad tågstation
    191One-way
    1 transfer
  • Västtrafik13216 Västtrafik+Värmlandstrafik900 Värmlandstrafik · 800 Värmlandstrafik
    4:15 PM3h12
    Gothenburg Centralstation
    7:27 PMKarlstad
    221One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Gothenburg to Karlstad

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Gothenburg to Karlstad among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €33 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 4m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €33, while a bus costs an average of €71.

Distance: 128 miles (206 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

€33

Average price

Cheapest

€71

Average price

€42

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 4m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 8m

Average total duration

9h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 11m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

SJ

Most popular train company

Vy Bus4You

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Gothenburg to Karlstad is a train with an average price of €33.

This is compared to other travel options from Gothenburg to Karlstad:

A train is €38 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Gothenburg to Karlstad costing on average €71.

The fastest way to travel from Gothenburg to Karlstad is by train with an average journey time of 2h 34m.

Other travel options to Karlstad take longer:

Bus takes on average 9h 38m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Gothenburg and Karlstad including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gothenburg to Karlstad among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 37m faster (2h 34m by train vs 3h 11m by car) and roughly €9 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€33 vs €42). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with SJ, VR.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Gothenburg to Karlstad train times

The table below shows live departures for Gothenburg to Karlstad trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
SJ3950 SJ5:14 AM Gothenburg Centralstation
2h27
7:41 AM Karlstad tågstation0 transfersDirect
SJ3952 SJ · 63952 SJ7:14 AM Gothenburg Centralstation
2h39
9:53 AM Karlstad tågstation1 transfer
SJ3956 SJ · 63956 SJ9:14 AM Gothenburg Centralstation
2h39
11:53 AM Karlstad tågstation1 transfer
SJ3960 SJ · 63960 SJ11:14 AM Gothenburg Centralstation
2h39
1:53 PM Karlstad tågstation1 transfer
SJ3964 SJ1:14 PM Gothenburg Centralstation
2h29
3:43 PM Karlstad tågstation0 transfersDirect
SJ3968 SJ3:14 PM Gothenburg Centralstation
2h35
5:49 PM Karlstad tågstation0 transfersDirect
SJ184 SJ · 643 SJ3:29 PM Gothenburg Centralstation
3h57
7:26 PM Karlstad tågstation1 transfer
Västtrafik2 Västtrafik · 13216 Västtrafik+Värmlandstrafik800 Värmlandstrafik · 900 Värmlandstrafik3:55 PM Gothenburg
3h32
7:27 PM Karlstad3 transfers
Västtrafik13216 Västtrafik+Värmlandstrafik800 Värmlandstrafik · 900 Värmlandstrafik4:15 PM Gothenburg Centralstation
3h12
7:27 PM Karlstad2 transfers
SJ3972 SJ5:14 PM Gothenburg Centralstation
2h26
7:40 PM Karlstad tågstation0 transfersDirect
Västtrafik6 Västtrafik · 13224 Västtrafik+Värmlandstrafik700 Värmlandstrafik · 901 Värmlandstrafik6:10 PM Gothenburg
3h33
9:43 PM Karlstad4 transfers
Västtrafik13224 Västtrafik+Värmlandstrafik806 Värmlandstrafik · 901 Värmlandstrafik · 700 Värmlandstrafik6:30 PM Gothenburg Centralstation
3h13
9:43 PM Karlstad3 transfers
Västtrafik6 Västtrafik+SJ192 SJ+Värmlandstrafik500 Värmlandstrafik · 500 Värmlandstrafik7:08 PM Gothenburg
10h04
5:12 AM Karlstad5 transfers
SJ3976 SJ7:14 PM Gothenburg Centralstation
2h24
9:38 PM Karlstad tågstation0 transfersDirect
SJ192 SJ+Lanstrafiken500 Länstrafiken Örebro+Värmlandstrafik900 Värmlandstrafik · 500 Värmlandstrafik7:29 PM Gothenburg Centralstation
9h43
5:12 AM Karlstad4 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Gothenburg to Karlstad by bus or train

Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Tue
Sep 15
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Why should you book Gothenburg to Karlstad trains with Omio?

SJ as well as Tågab, Västtrafik, VR and more offer trains services from Gothenburg to Karlstad.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SJ tickets.

Why book with Omio vs SJ?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SJ, but also compare tickets for the likes of Tågab, Västtrafik or VR to find the best option for your trip from Gothenburg to Karlstad.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare SJ with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Gothenburg to Karlstad.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Gothenburg to Karlstad

SwedenSweden
SwedenSweden
Icon of train

Trains from Gothenburg to Karlstad run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €13 if you book in advance.

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:39. The fastest train covers the 128 miles (206 km) distance in 2h 13m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
128 miles (206 km)
Average train duration
2h 34m
Cheapest ticket price
€13
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
2h 13m
First train
12:15 AM
Last train
11:39 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
28 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Train companies: SJ, Tågab, VR from Gothenburg to Karlstad trainsSJ, Tågab, VR trains will get you between Gothenburg and Karlstad from €13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

SJ

About
SJ is a Swedish train company that offers a wide range of services to its passengers. It operates high-speed trains, regional trains, and night trains, all of which are comfortable and reliable. The high-speed trains, X2000, are the fastest way to travel between cities, while the regional trains, Pågatåg, are perfect for shorter trips. The night trains, SJ Nattåg, offer a comfortable way to travel overnight. SJ offers a variety of ticket types, including single tickets, return tickets, and SJ Prio tickets, which offer discounts for frequent travelers. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a café car. The most popular routes for SJ are between Stockholm and Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malmö, and Stockholm and Uppsala.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average SJ Duration
2h 14m
Cheapest SJ Price
€13
SJ frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on long-distance trains, bistro car with snacks and drinks, at-seat service in 1st class
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee in 2nd class, included in 1st class ticket
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance service available
Pets
Small pets free in carrier, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Tågab

About
Tågåkeriet i Bergslagen (TÅGAB) is a Swedish railway company established in 1994 and headquartered in Kristinehamn. It operates both freight and passenger trains in Sweden and Norway. TÅGAB's passenger services include routes like Gothenburg-Karlstad-Kristinehamn-Falun/Mora and Karlstad-Stockholm, often utilizing Rc3 locomotives with passenger coaches or X10 railcars. For some regional passenger transport, TÅGAB collaborates with Tåg i Bergslagen, using Bombardier Regina and SJ X12 railcars. The company also handles freight traffic, particularly for industrial plants along its routes, and was one of the first private companies for rail freight transport in Sweden.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Tågab Duration
2h 22m
Cheapest Tågab Price
€30
Tågab frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café service available on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservation available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible trains and assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Larger dogs require a ticket
Quiet zone

VR

About
VR Group is a state-owned railway company in Finland, operating passenger and freight services in Finland and Sweden. They manage approximately 250 long-distance and 800 commuter rail services daily. VR offers various train types, including the high-speed Pendolino (Sm3), InterCity trains with double-deck coaches, and Sm2, Sm4, and Sm5 electric multiple units for commuter services. Ticket options include single, multi, and season tickets, with different travel classes like Eko and Ekstra, and specialized services such as night trains and car-carrier trains.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average VR Duration
2h 13m
Cheapest VR Price
€17
VR frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car on long-distance trains, at-seat service in first class, kiosk service available
Seat reservation
Seat reservations optional for second class (additional fee), included in first class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance services available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket (50% of adult fare), guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Karlstad

Things to do in Karlstad

Discover the best of Karlstad — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Karlstad trip today.

  • Must visit

Värmlands Museum

Värmlands Museum presents regional history, design, and art in a striking waterfront building, making it one of Karlstad’s essential cultural visits.

  • Must visit

Sandgrund Lars Lerin

Sandgrund Lars Lerin is a celebrated art gallery showing Lars Lerin’s watercolor works in a former dance hall by the river.

  • Recommended

Brigadmuseum

Brigadmuseum explores Sweden’s Cold War and military history through immersive exhibitions, vehicles, and personal stories.

Swedish krona (kr)

Moderate for Sweden: hotels and dining are not cheap, but local transit is manageable and Karlstad is usually less costly than Stockholm or Gothenburg.

Average meal costs

Budget
90-140 kr for fast food or lunch.
Mid-range
180-320 kr per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
700+ kr per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
35-50 kr for coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included. Rounding up or adding 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated but not expected. Taxis may be rounded up; cafes usually do not require tips.

FAQs: Trains from Gothenburg to Karlstad

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Gothenburg to Karlstad by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Karlstad, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Gothenburg to Karlstad can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €13, while the average price is around €33.
The train from Gothenburg to Karlstad takes 2h 13m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Gothenburg to Karlstad is 128 miles (206 km).
The first train from Gothenburg to Karlstad leaves at 12:15 AM.
The last train from Gothenburg to Karlstad leaves at 11:39 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Gothenburg to Karlstad.
Yes, there is a direct train from Gothenburg to Karlstad. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by SJ, VR.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Gothenburg to Karlstad.
The train station in Gothenburg that goes to Karlstad is Gothenburg Centralstation, which connects to Karlstad tågstation.
The cheapest way to get from Gothenburg to Karlstad is by train, with a cost of around €13.
The train journey from Gothenburg to Karlstad offers scenic views of Sweden's lush landscapes, including forests, lakes, and picturesque countryside, making it a visually enjoyable trip.
A day trip from Gothenburg to Karlstad is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 13m. However, there are 11 trains per day covering the 128 miles (206 km).
In Karlstad, you can explore Vänern Lake, Sweden's largest lake, ideal for boating, fishing, and scenic walks. Catch a hockey game or concert at Löfbergs Lila Arena, or visit Karlstad University for its impressive architecture. Discover local cuisine at bustling food markets and unwind at Sundstabadet, a water park with pools and spa facilities. Don't miss the Värmlands Museum for regional history and art, Alsters Herrgård, the birthplace of poet Gustaf Fröding, and Mariebergsskogen, a city park with a zoo and nature trails. Art enthusiasts will appreciate Sandgrund Lars Lerin gallery, and the Karlstad Cathedral offers beautiful architecture and a peaceful setting.
Typically, spending 2 to 3 days in Karlstad allows you to explore its main attractions, such as the Värmland Museum, Mariebergsskogen park, and the scenic Lake Vänern, while also enjoying local dining and cultural experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Gothenburg to Karlstad.
Since both Gothenburg and Karlstad are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Karlstad include Arvika, Kongsvinger, Åmål, Sunne, Kil.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Gothenburg to Karlstad among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK) as its currency. It is generally better for travelers to use cards, as card payments are widely accepted across the country, including in most shops, restaurants, and public transportation. Cash is less commonly used but can be handy in smaller towns or for small purchases.
In Karlstad, travelers should be mindful of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Scams targeting visitors are rare, but it is advisable to stay cautious when approached by strangers offering unsolicited services or deals. Always keep personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Gothenburg to Karlstad

Most Gothenburg to Karlstad trains use the Göteborg Centralstation to Karlstad tågstation station pair, with some services arriving at Karlstad, Mariebergsskogen. Use this guide to compare Gothenburg and Karlstad train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Gothenburg
Arrival train stations in Karlstad

Which Gothenburg station do trains to Karlstad leave from?

Trains from Gothenburg to Karlstad leave from Göteborg Centralstation. The station is from Gothenburg city centre at Drottningtorget 5, 411 03 Gothenburg, Sweden.
Göteborg CentralstationDrottningtorget 5, 411 03 Gothenburg, Sweden+46 841062600WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Göteborg Centralstation from Gothenburg city centre

Bus60, X5 · 2m · €1 · every ~32 min
Tram1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, X · 2m · €1 · every ~83 min

Göteborg Centralstation train station facilities and services

Göteborg Centralstation has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Burger King, Espresso House, Frankfurter Cabanossy & Grill, Franks gatukök, Fruit & Berry, Happy M Kitchen, Le Croissant, Lilla London, Metropolitan, Mr. Shou, & many more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

The station WiFi is called "All Station Guests" and is free to use. ATMs are there are 6 ATM machines located in the station.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 10:15 - 18:30. Information desks are opposite the taxi station. .

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is there are storage lockers at the station that are locked digitally and opened with a code.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Göteborg Centralstation: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Göteborg Centralstation: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Göteborg Centralstation: All entrances to the station are accessible. Barrier-free toilets and handicapped parking spaces are available for a fee. Personalized special assistance can be requested.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Royal, Hotel Pigalle, ProfilHotels | Opera.

Göteborg Gamlestaden Station415 02 Gothenburg, SwedenParkingDiningAccessibilityBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Göteborg Gamlestaden Station from Gothenburg city centre

Göteborg Gamlestaden Station is 3 km from Gothenburg city centre. Public transport options include:

Train3688, 3692, 3602, 3600, 3684, 3616, 3620, 3618, 3640, 3644, 3646, 3650, 3652, 3654, 3656, 3622, 3680, 3638, 3648, 3642, 3624, 3632, 3636, 3682, 13670, 3612, 13608, 13614, 13616, 13610, 13618, 3626, 3630, 3634, 3662, 3666, 3674, 3628, 3658, 13676, 13678, 3660, 3664, 3676, 3668, 3670, 3672, 3678, 13612, 13680, 13620, 13674, 13672, 17392, 3220, 3244, 3226, 3260, 3224, 3276, 3228, 3234, 3252, 3230, 3270, 3236, 3232, 3238, 3242, 3248, 3240, 3256, 3266, 3278, 3280, 3246, 3250, 3254, 3258, 3262, 3272, 3264, 3268, 3284, 13216, 13244, 13268, 13224, 13236, 13242, 13782, 17384, 17388, 17304, 17308, 17324, 17328, 17336, 17352, 17356, 17368, 17372, 17376, 17380, 17318, 17332, 17340, 17344, 17348, 17360, 17364, 17326, 17320, 17316, 13700, 13792, 13726, 13740, 13750, 13758, 13766, 13774, 13794, 13728, 13734, 13742, 13790, 13796 · 4m · €1 · every ~8 min
Bus21 · 15m · €1 · every ~12 min
Tram4, 6, 7, 9, 11 · 6m · €1 · every ~54 min
4, 11, 7, 9, 6 · 8m · €1 · every ~52 min

Göteborg Gamlestaden Station train station facilities and services

Göteborg Gamlestaden Station has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Göteborg Gamlestaden Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Göteborg Gamlestaden Station: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Göteborg Gamlestaden Station: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Göteborg Gamlestaden Station.

Liseberg412 51 Gothenburg, SwedenAccessibility

Liseberg train station facilities and services

Liseberg has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Liseberg: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.

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