Gavle is a unique and beautiful part of Sweden. From walks in the forest to teeing off at one of Sweden’s largest golf courses to museums packed with history, and a vibrant and delicious dining scene, Norrland’s oldest town provides plenty to see and do.

Founded in the 15th century, Gavle is situated on the Bothnian Sea. Take your time discovering the charming cobblestone streets and traditional colourful wooden houses of the Gamla Gefle neighbourhood, pause for a good cup of coffee at one of the many cafes, then venture to the nearby nature reserves and parks where forests, hiking trails and beautiful wilderness abound.

Driving your own rental car in Gavle will give you the greatest flexibility and freedom to explore.

Which side of the road?

In Sweden, please drive on the right side of the road.

Unique Country Driving Laws

• It is not permitted to use a mobile phone or GPS in any manner that could be deemed detrimental to driving
• Note: There is a Congestion charge in Stockholm and Goteborg/Gothenburg

• Please be aware of animals such as moose and deer when driving
• When driving in Sweden, your headlights must always be switched on and on dipped beam, even in daytime

Speed Limits

Speed limits between 18 mph (30 km/h) and 74 mph (120 km/h) are operative in Sweden. 

Swedish speed limits are determined by the quality of road surface. Please use road signs to check the correct speed. 

On many roads speed cameras are installed to remind motorists not to exceed the speed limit. If you do and are stopped by the police, you will have to pay a fine. You may even lose your licence if you are caught speeding.

Child safety/Seatbelt laws

It is compulsory for all inside the vehicle to wear a seatbelt.

• Children under 15 and less than 135 cm tall must be seated in an appropriate child restraint for their size.

• A child must never sit in a seat which is fitted with an active airbag.

Please note – It is the child’s parent/guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.
 

Compulsory Equipment in your Avis rental car

• Winter tyres between 1st December and 31st March

• All vehicles must have Anti-Freeze in the vehicle windscreen fluid

Emergency Services

Police

112

Ambulance

112

Fire Department

112

European Emergency Number

112

If you want to learn more about driving in Gavle, see the full Swedish Road Rules guide.

Bothnian Coast

The Bothnian Coast is an epic place to start your road trip from Gavle. Showcasing the lesser known treasures of northern Sweden, this coastline runs 850 km from Gavle up to the border with Finland. The journey offers an exhilarating driving experience with some of Sweden’s finest panoramas.

Along the way you’ll meander through dramatic nature that offers glimpses of vast unspoilt landscapes dotted with a tapestry of sea, woodlands and forests. If you wish you can stop at the compact yet cosmopolitan city of Sundsvall to sample Sweden’s famously pungent fermented herring or head further north to Härnösand for a true wilderness adventure.

Gavle to Stockholm

Stockholm lies less than 2 hours south of Gavle. From world-class museums to lake tours and historic sites, hip bars and fine dining restaurants to wide open green spaces, Stockholm has it all. With Avis one way car rental in Sweden, you can simply drop your vehicle in Stockholm at the end of your journey.

Is it hard driving in Gavle?

The road system in Sweden is extremely well maintained, with some of the best road systems in Europe. However, in winter it pays to be prepared as the winter conditions can be hazardous. Make sure you have snow tyres installed between December and April and on country roads be aware of wildlife.

Do I need winter tyres to drive in Gavle?

If you rent a car in Sweden from December 1st to March 31st it is mandatory to have winter tyres installed on your car.

Is it expensive to hire a car in Gavle?

Avis has competitively priced vehicles to suit all budgets. No matter whether you’re travelling alone, as a couple or with friends and family, we have the vehicle to cover your needs. Check out our fleet to find the perfect rental car in Sweden for you.

What is the weather like in Gavle?

Winters can be long and severe, with snow and freezing temperatures while summers are mild and pleasant.

Need to have winter tyres installed? No problem. All our rental cars in Gavle have the option of winter tyres to comply with local legislation. For the ultimate flexibility you can also try our long term car rental in Sweden.