Sweden is growing more and more popular as a top European holiday break - and for good reason too.
Known for its incredibly scenic destinations which include fairytale-inspiring castles and snowy forests, it’s also the perfect place to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
In fact I'm writing this while on our 2nd Sweden road trip! We just love it here.
Those heading to this Scandinavian nation will need around 10-14 days to see all of the best highlights, which are spread out between the three main regions of Gotaland, Svealand and Norrland.
Now when it comes to getting around Sweden, we think that renting a car is a great option.
Not only does it give you total independence, but you’ll also have flexibility when it comes to picking the right vehicle for your particular style of trip.
In this comprehensive article we’ll explore the best car rental companies in Sweden.
Including the advantages of each one, as well as the different models available for your trip.
Let's get into it ...
Once you’ve set your heart on travelling independently around Sweden, now comes the part of choosing a rental company.
Whilst it can be quite a tedious and time-consuming process to do on your own, we’ve already done all of the legwork and have compiled the very best operators in the country below.
We highly recommend using DiscoverCars for further research, which is a car rental comparison site that makes it easy to compare vehicle models using their simple yet detailed layout system.
Here are some of the other top advantages of using DiscoverCars:
Alamo is one of the best rental companies on the globe, who cover over 80 countries on all continents. In fact, they're also a popular option for car rentals in the United States.
Whilst they are among the more expensive companies, they are renowned for their 24/7 customer support as well as having one of the largest fleet of vehicles available.
Although you can’t earn points for future rentals with Alamo, you can instead earn points towards partnered flights or hotel stays (including Lufthansa Airlines and the Hilton Hotel Group).
Given Alamo’s experience and know-how, they have decided to supply a large range of car rental options here in Sweden (covering a variety of different needs).
The entry level Mini, Economy and Compact options are best for smaller groups.
Then we can find more luxurious models such as Estates and SUV’s, which are overall more spacious.
Alamo also provides small van rentals too, which are great for larger groups.
Another global powerhouse, Enterprise is well-known amongst those who regularly rent cars abroad.
Founded in 1957, they have grown from strength to strength and are now one of the most reputable companies out there.
They’re one of the best for competitive pricing, so you can guarantee you’ll find good rates when renting a car.
It’s worth checking out their loyalty program too, given they offer up to 20% bonus points which go towards future rentals.
Honestly, we think Enterprise is one of the best car rentals in Sweden!
Enterprise’s Mini and Compact options are the best for solo travellers and couples, which are some of the most popular models.
They also have medium SUVs and Intermediate models (both manual and automatic) which are better for bigger groups.
On the more expensive side we can find the larger SUV’s, which are very spacious and comfortable.
Hertz is another well-known rental company, and in Sweden they’ve also gone the extra mile when it comes to pick-up locations.
Whilst other companies tend to focus on the three major cities, with Hertz you can also fly into smaller towns and pick-up straight from the airport.
Their very best perks are accessed through their Gold Plus Rewards program (free to join), which includes counter-free pick-up as well as free car upgrades at certain levels within the membership.
For future reference, Hertz is a great option for car rentals in the United Kingdom and Germany among other countries!
Starting with the budget vehicles, Hertz have their Classic Compact and Intermediate cars (usually a Renault Captur, Kia Niro or similar).
The mid-tier options include their Standard Crossover, Premium or Full-Size models.
Those after a luxurious vehicle can either choose from their Premium or Luxury SUV models (which come with unlimited mileage, like most others booked with DiscoverCars).
With over 2200 pick-up locations in 105 countries worldwide (including Spain and Romania), SIXT is a great car rental choice for those who value a smooth experience with no hidden costs.
Similar to Alamo, they have a large fleet of vehicles to choose from, and also offer a free “change or cancel” policy on existing bookings.
Their entry-level vehicles are the Standard Compact model and SUVs, which are usually a Peugeot 308, Mercedes-Benz A-Class or similar.
The mid-range Intermediate and Full-Size models are more spacious and better for families.
Those after a more luxurious vehicle can select either the Premium or Luxury models.
SIXT are another company on this list who provide small van rentals, which fit 9 and are quite cheap in comparison with other rentals.
Europcar was founded back in 1949 in Paris, and has since become a leading provider for car rentals across Europe.
They are by far the most accessible out of all the rental companies, offering dozens of collection points all over the country.
Europcar also offers their own Privilege Loyalty Program, which gives premium pick-up, member-only discounts as well as free weekend rentals.
This company offers some of the cheapest car rentals in Sweden too making them a great option for budget travelers.
Entry level models include the Economy and Intermediate vehicles (usually a Volkswagen ID.3, Seat Ibiza or similar).
Those after a more comfortable choice can pick from either their Compact, Standard Elite Crossover or Intermediate models.
Their very top models are the Compact Elite and Standard SUVs.
Europcar also offers luxurious vans, although they are on the more expensive side of things.
National is a really easy-to-use rental site, who make pick-up efficient with their app and quick assistance.
Whilst they’re one of the more expensive companies (especially for premium vehicles), you’ll be in safe hands with one of the most reputable car rental companies out there.
National also has various partners who you can claim rewards with, which is great for upgrading your trip. These include the Radisson and Hilton Hotel groups, as well as Lufthansa airlines.
National has quite a nice range of rental models to pick from.
The Economy and Mini models are the cheapest, and best for solo travellers or couples.
Then we have the Intermediate and Standard models which are best for the majority of travellers.
Those after the nicer standard models or SUVs can use their Premium models, which are usually a Peugeot 3008, Skoda Kamiq or similar.
National also does rentals for Intermediate and Standard Vans.
Avis is another leading car rental company who is known for its innovation and high levels of trust and loyalty.
Customer satisfaction with rentals is very high, and as a result Avis is a trusted choice in over 165 countries all over the globe.
They also have their own Preferred Loyalty Program, where you can earn points for free rentals and other perks.
The most basic models from Avis include the Mini and Compact Elite models. However after thorough researching, we found these to be the most expensive budget rentals of all on this list.
Then we have the Standard (and Intermediate) Crossovers and SUVs which are more comfortable.
Whilst Avis also offer luxurious cars, these tend to be on the more expensive side of things. The Premium model is usually a Volvo V90 STW or similar.
Budget has its headquarters in the USA, however it now operates in over 128 countries across the globe.
Whilst they are known for their low prices (hence the name), they are actually amongst the more expensive rentals here in Sweden.
However this does come with perks, such as bonus discounts and rewards with partners like Jet Blue airlines and the Marriott Hotel Group.
Firstly we have the basic models which Budget offers. These include the Compact Elite, Economy and Mini models (usually a Kia Niro, Fiat 500 or similar).
Those after a mid-priced vehicle can select either the Standard Crossover, Elite Crossover or Standard SUV models.
Lastly we have the Premium vehicles (usually a Skoda Octavia, Volvo V90 STW or similar).
By far the most mysterious of all rental companies in this article, AB Quick Car Rental is a local Swedish company that offers a more homely and local culture.
Whilst the website can be difficult to navigate (it’s only in Swedish, although you can translate), they do have a decent range of car models, and are also locally trusted.
We would definitely recommend this option for those who have already visited the city of Stockholm, are staying locally or are more comfortable throwing themselves out there into the real Sweden!
QuickRent offers a variety of different models depending on your needs.
The AA and A classes are the best for quick and cheap rentals, which usually include vehicles such as Kia Picanto, VW Polo or similar. These are ideal for travellers who will only spend one day in Stockholm.
Then we have the mid-tier classes (B, C, D and E) which are slightly more spacious and comfortable. Usual vehicles of this class include VW Golf Sportscombi, Skoda Fabia Kombi or a Fiat Tipo Kombi.
At the luxurious end of things we find the F and G classes (there’s also H however these are for vans). Customers who select these premium models can expect a VW Passat Attack, Skoda Superb or similar.
Another American company that makes our list, Thrifty has also expanded its services globally since its starting days back in 1958.
Prices are very modest, however there’s still quite a large range of vehicles to select from.
Given Thrifty is now part of Hertz (following an acquisition), you can expect similar benefits to this larger supplier, such as a larger variety of car rental locations throughout Sweden.
Not only that, but they also offer rental cars in Norway and Rovaniemi (the latter being located in Finland).
The most basic models begin with the Compact and Standard classes (usually a Ford Ka, Renault Megane Estate or similar).
Those who want a more spacious vehicle can opt for their mid-range vehicles, such as a Kia Creed or Renault Captur.
Lastly we have the more premium models such as a Volvo V40, which are surprisingly cheap when compared with other providers on this list.
It’s important to remember that there’s many factors that can affect the final price you’ll pay for a car rental in Sweden.
These include the type of vehicle, the company you have chosen as well as whether you pay for premium add-ons.
We’ve found that average prices for renting a car can vary between £25 and £170 per day.
Also remember that when you book can also affect the price, for example the Christmas holidays tend to be more expensive than seasons like Autumn and Spring.
The current law stipulates that you need to be at least 18 years old to rent a car in Sweden, however you will most likely have to pay a young driver surcharge if you’re under 25.
Although pretty much every other European country also has a similar driving age (18), some will only let you rent if you are over 21.
So if you’re planning a longer road trip through Europe then please keep this in mind!
We think it’s absolutely worth it!
Like with other Scandinavian countries, getting around (especially to the more remote destinations) can be tricky, and having your own set of wheels make these places much more accessible.
You’ll also be completely independent too, able to leave when you want without worrying about bus schedules or other things out of your control.
Are you thinking of heading to Sweden soon? Check out our Sweden road trip itinerary for ideas on how to plan your own adventure here!
As we’ve seen, this country is home to many incredible places which each deserve their own spot along your road trip through Sweden.
This includes modern cities such as Gothenburg and Stockholm, as well as venturing deeper into the magical Arctic landscapes further north.
Getting around by car is easy, and is also the only way to do so in some of the more remote areas.
This is why we believe renting a car is the best option, and with these 10 unique rental car companies, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
If you’re still wondering what’s best to see in this unforgettable country, then be sure to read our guide on the very best things to do in Sweden.
In our opinion, this country is one of the best places to visit in Europe, thanks to its breathtaking landscapes, Christmas markets, and awesome cities.
Here are some other car rental guides you may find helpful:
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