Traffic regulations in Gamla stan – The Old Town

The built environment and street layout in Gamla stan is unique and historic. The streets in Gamla stan were built long before the existence of motor traffic, which presents significant planning challenges in terms of ensuring road safety, protecting the residential environment and preserving the unique townscape.

The streets in Gamla stan are designated as pedestrian zones. For this reason, drivers must reduce their speed to a walking pace and they have a duty to give way to pedestrians at all times.

24-hour parking ban

A 24-hour parking ban is in place throughout the district.

Restricted driving hours

In the inner parts of Gamla stan, all motor vehicles are prohibited between 11:00 and 06:00, seven days a week.

Between 06:00 and 11:00 motor vehicles are permitted, but only if they are accessing a destination within the pedestrian zone. Through traffic is prohibited at all times.

Map of traffic restrictions in Gamla stan (in Swedish)

Vehicle length and height restrictions

In the inner parts of Gamla stan, vehicle length is restricted to 8 metres and vehicle height to 3.5 metres.

This is because large vehicles reversing in narrow streets with limited visibility can be dangerous. In addition, in an environment such as Gamla stan, the stonework and signage can easily be damaged by long vehicles navigating the narrow streets.