Visby Airport (VBY/ESSV) – Your Essential Gateway to the Island of Gotland
Visby Airport (VBY) is more than just a transport hub; it is the vital air link connecting the historical and culturally rich island of Gotland to mainland Sweden and Europe. Renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage medieval city walls, stunning natural landscapes, and the globally recognized political gathering, Almedalen Week, Gotland is a premier Scandinavian destination. VBY serves as the primary and most efficient entry point for tourists, residents, and business travelers alike.
Airport Overview and Essential Information for Travelers
As an efficient, single-terminal airport, VBY is designed for quick and hassle-free passenger processing, reflecting the charm and relaxed pace of island life.
| Feature | Detail |
| IATA / ICAO Codes | VBY / ESSV |
| Location | Situated on the island of Gotland, just 4 km (2.5 miles) north of Visby city center. |
| Operator | Swedavia (a state-owned company managing Sweden’s major airports) |
| Annual Passenger Volume | Approximately 450,000 passengers (The volume sees a significant spike during the peak summer months of June–August). |
| Key Role | Facilitating domestic travel to Stockholm and providing essential seasonal international connections. |
| Geographic Coordinates | 57° 39′ 47” N, 18° 20′ 57” E |
Airlines and Destinations: Connecting Gotland to Major Hubs
Visby Airport is crucial for year-round domestic travel, primarily linking Gotland to Sweden’s capital. The flight schedule is heavily boosted during the summer to accommodate the massive influx of tourists, offering a broader range of international and regional routes.
| Airline | Year-Round Domestic Destinations | Seasonal/Summer Routes (Focus 2024/2025) |
| Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) | Stockholm (Arlanda – ARN) | Expanded services to ARN and occasional seasonal routes to other regional hubs. |
| BRA (Braathens Regional Airlines) | Stockholm (Bromma – BMA) | Increased frequency and potential connections to major cities like Malmö (MMX) and Gothenburg (GOT). |
| Finnair | N/A | Seasonal route to Helsinki (HEL), catering to Nordic and Asian connections. |
| Norwegian Air Sweden | N/A | Potential seasonal routes to Helsinki (HEL) or other popular European cities. |
- Most Frequent Connection: The route between Visby (VBY) and Stockholm-Arlanda (ARN) is the busiest, often offering multiple daily flights to support both leisure and business travel.
- Seasonal Expansion: Travelers should note that the vast majority of international and supplementary domestic routes operate only during the high season, typically from late May to early September. Always check the official Swedavia website for the most accurate and up-to-date schedules.
Terminal Facilities and Enhanced Passenger Amenities
VBY features a single, efficient terminal designed for quick passenger flow. Despite its regional size, the airport ensures a comfortable experience with essential modern facilities.
- Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary, high-speed wireless internet access is available throughout the terminal, allowing passengers to stay connected before their flight.
- Dining and Shopping: The terminal hosts a well-appointed café and bar, offering Swedish staples and refreshments. There are also shopping opportunities, including a duty-free shop for those traveling outside the EU Customs Union.
- Accessibility Services: Visby Airport is fully accessible, providing ramps, accessible restrooms, and dedicated assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. It is recommended to book special assistance in advance.
- Financial and Information Services: An ATM is available within the terminal for cash withdrawals (payments are predominantly made in Swedish Krona, SEK).
- Lost and Found: For inquiries regarding lost property within the terminal, passengers should contact the airport’s service line directly at: +46 498-26 31 00.
Ground Transportation and Parking Solutions
The short distance from VBY to the Visby city center makes travel quick and economical, with several reliable options available.
Taxi Service
- Efficiency: A taxi ride to the central square of Visby takes approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Estimated Cost: The fare typically ranges between 110-140 SEK (~€10-€14). Taxis are readily available outside the terminal’s exit.
Public Bus Transport
- Route: Public bus route 61 connects Visby Flygplats (Airport) directly to Östercentrum (the main transport hub) in Visby.
- Journey Time: The journey is short, lasting about 10 minutes.
- Fare: Fares are highly affordable, generally around 20-30 SEK (~€1.8-€2.7).
Car Rental Services
For exploring the wider island of Gotland, a rental car is highly recommended. Major international car hire agencies have desks located inside the terminal:
- Hertz
- Avis
- Sixt
- Europcar
- Local providers may also be available seasonally.
Parking Options
The airport offers convenient short-term (P-kort) and long-term (P1) parking located within a short walking distance of the terminal entrance.
- Payment Methods: Payment is flexible, accepted via credit/debit cards at the barrier upon entry/exit or at the self-service machines located inside the terminal.
- Long-Term Rates: Daily rates are competitive, often starting around 100 SEK per day, with reduced weekly rates available for extended stays on the island.
Contact Information and Essential Travel Tips
| Detail | Information |
| Official Website | www.swedavia.se/sv/Visby (Check for up-to-the-minute flight status and services) |
| Telephone | +46 498-26 31 00 |
| Address | Luftfartsverket, S-621 41 Visby, Sweden |
| Accommodation | Recommended hotels near the city center include Clarion Hotel Wisby and Scandic Visby. |
| Schengen Requirements | As Sweden is part of the Schengen Area, all international visitors must hold the necessary passport, documentation, or Schengen visa. |
| Travel Tip | During the busy summer season, especially for early morning or late afternoon flights, arrive at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for a smooth check-in process. |