visit stockholm vaxholm

När du vill uppleva skärgården, årets alla dagar

Vaxholm, bara en timma med skärgårdsbåten från Stockholm, kallas ofta för skärgårdens huvudstad. Det kan bero på Vaxholms historia och det faktum att du här går iland i en levande skärgårdsby med genuina restauranger och pittoreska butiker, samtidigt som du får uppleva den storslagna skärgårdsnaturen med vandringsleder, paddelstråk och fiskevatten precis inpå knuten. Och kanske bäst av allt – du kan göra det året runt.

Valborg i Vaxholm

Vår i vaxholm, vaxholms stad och natur kryllar av vackra vyer, en omfattande renovering av vaxholms kajer har påbörjats, på gång, Året runt är det alltid något som händer, musik i vårkväll -svensk lyrik- i vaxholms kyrka, valborgs/eldmeny, 3-rätters meny, valborgserbjudande på waxholms hotell, strömmingsloppet 1 maj, plantbytardag, författarbesök på biblioteket, en kväll för ukraina, bistro kastellet, Överfallet i prästgården, kulturcafé – fika och författarbesök, vaxholms vÅrsalong 2024, roslagens kammarmusikfestival 24-26/5, scouternas stora loppis, författarträff med cecilia moldén, idel riedel—alla kära barnsånger från astrid lindgrens värld och andra fantastiska sånger av georg r, maria b johansson måleri, traditionsenligt nationaldagsfirande i vaxholms kyrka, skärgårdsbåtens dag, kanelbullsworkshop, vivianne e rosqvist måleri & skulptur, traditionsenligt midsommarfirande, friluftsgudstjänst på skarpö utsiktsplats, stora galleriet - samlingsutstÄllning pÅ roddarhuset, lilla galleriet sara w nelin - skulptur & teckniing, promenadteater skogshäxans hemlighet, skärgårdsstaden, vaxholms historia, lokala guider, mikaelas historiska anekdoter, vaxholm året runt, fotovänliga platser, paddla, fiska, segla, vandringsleder, cykla i vaxholm, vaxholms turistbyrå, vaxholms kajer, vill du synas på destinationvaxholm.se.

Travel Collecting

How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Vaxholm, Sweden

Imagine you are sitting on a white wooden chair, enjoying a sponge cake with strawberries and cream.  A sea gull stands next to some bright purple flowers, looking at you (or maybe your cake).  Across a small bay is a bright yellow fisherman’s hut and a dark red wooden house with pale shutters.  Boats bob in the water, and the sun beams down, warming you as you sit back and relax. 

This is Vaxholm!

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The Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm archipelago is Stockholmers’ summer playground.  There are more than 30,000 pine-covered islands and islets dotted north and south of Stockholm.  This is where locals escape to nature in the long days of their short summer, typically staying in a family-owned summer home. 

Wooden houses, painted the ubiquitous red or occasionally yellow, dot the islands.  Some islands are barely big enough for one house, while others have small towns and even bridges to the mainland.  Most, however, are accessible only by public ferry or private boat and there is an extensive network of ferries connecting them to each other and to Stockholm. 

I was intrigued by the archipelago before my trip to Stockholm and I really wanted to get a sense of the whole experience.  I don’t, however, own a summer house there, so I needed to find another option. 

There are two easy ways for travelers to experience the archipelago – take a day sailing trip around the islands (recommended) and visit one of the larger islands, where there is a village or small town.  Enter – Vaxholm!

Why Take a Day Trip to Vaxholm, Sweden ?

Is Vaxholm worth visiting ?

Yes.  If you want to visit the Stockholm archipelago, Vaxholm (the name of the island, the region around it and the town that covers most of it) is the best choice because it is so accessible.  It is easy to get to, there are plenty of things to do and you can gain a sense of life in the archipelago without needing to have a summer house.

Vaxholm, often called “The Capital of the Archipelago”, is only an hour from the center of Stockholm, but it’s a world away. 

Narrow cobbled streets; tiny colored houses and fishing huts; an island fortress just offshore; and adorable stores and restaurants give this island a unique charm.  It makes a perfect day trip from Stockholm, though it also a great base to explore deeper into the archipelago, as many ferries to outlying islands start here.

A Brief History of Vaxholm

Vaxholm has been a fishing village for centuries and herring fishing was historically the main industry.  It also has significant military history. 

It sits along one of the main shipping routes into Stockholm harbor and is the nearest of the main archipelago islands to Stockholm.  This made it strategically important, so a fortress was built there in the mid 1500’s by King Gustav Vasa and it became a military outpost for almost five centuries. In fact, the town, which was established a decade after the fortress was built, is named after the fort.

In the late 1800’s, a third industry became prominent – tourism.  Vaxholm became a popular resort for rich Stockholmers escaping the city in the summer.  They discovered the herrings caught there, and the Vaxholm Herring became a sought-after delicacy that you can still try today. 

Vaxholm has now become a major ferry hub for ferries to the outer islands in the archipelago, and continues to be a popular destination for both Swedes and international travelers.

How to get to Vaxholm, Sweden from Stockholm ?

Getting from Stockholm to Vaxholm is easy.  You can take a public ferry, a cruise, a bus, a taxi or even drive.  I have created a comprehensive guide on all the ways to get from Vaxholm from Stockholm .  It includes a detailed description of all of the companies, how long each option takes, where to take the bus and boats (with links to Google Maps for the destination sites), the pros and cons of each, and more.   

Map of Vaxholm

This map includes the detailed Walking Tours of Vaxholm maps, plus all the main sites and places to stay on Vaxholm.

Top 10 Things to Do in Vaxholm, Sweden

Wondering what to do and what to see when you visit Vaxholm? Here are ten fun things to do on your Vaxholm day trip (or overnight stay).

1. Vaxholm Castle/ Vaxholm Kastell/ Vaxholm Fortress/ Vaxholm Slott

Actually a fortress, it was built in 1544 to guard the major sea route into Stockholm.  It was home to soldiers, officers and their wives, servants and even prisoners.  A military outpost grew up around it, and became the town of Vaxholm. 

It has been involved in active warfare twice.  It was attacked by the Danes in 1612 and by the Russians in 1719. The current building dates from 1863.

Today it is the no. 1 Vaxholm sightseeing destination.  There is a small museum as well as a lovely B and B you can stay in .  There are 45-minute tours daily in Swedish and shorter 15-minute tours in English.  Check their website (in English) for the times during your visit.  There is also a lovely outdoor café on the water for fika.

What is fika?

“ Fika ” is one of those words I love in a language – one that has no direct translation.  At its most basic, it is a coffee break.  It can be a noun “to have fika” or a verb “to fika”. 

However, it is more than just a coffee break.  It is more about sitting down over a cup of coffee and a little pastry and socializing with friends or family.  It is an integral part of Swedish culture and Swedes typically fika several times a day. 

When you visit Sweden, you will love embracing this tradition and stop for a fika whenever you pass a charming café, see a beautiful view, or just feel like a break from your day’s travels.

How to get to Vaxholm Castle/ Fortress

The fortress sits on a tiny island separated by a narrow channel from Vaxholm Island and is reached by a small cable-operated ferry.  The Vaxholm castle ferry operates mid-May to mid-September and runs 2-4 trips an hour.

Buy tickets at the vending machine on the dock in front of the ferry.  

Vaxholm castle tickets cost 80 SEK (40 SEK if you take the S/S Stockholm luxury boat there).

2. Vaxholm Walking tour

Vaxholm is just about the most perfect place for a walking tour that you can find.  There is no better way to enjoy Vaxholm than slowly walking around, soaking it in and discovering new views around every turn.  There are several walking tours around Vaxholm that you can do.

Refer to the map above and follow along.

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Vaxholm East

Highlights: Battery Park |beach | Norrham |Hembydsgård Café |cliff-side over-the-water path | Vaxholm old town and Rådhus (town hall)

This is the main walk that I did and I highly recommend it!

Blue Trail on my map

From the Waxholms Hotell, which is where the ferry from Stockholm drops you off, take the road away from the harbor.  The hotel is on your left.  Don’t worry if you haven’t had a drink there yet, you’ll return to the hotel at the end. 

If you like shopping, stop off at Maginset. There is a bistro upstairs (perfect for fika) and a cute store downstairs. 

When the road forks soon after, take the right fork. Then take the second right – a gravel road leads you to Battery Park (Batteriparken).  The small park, which used to have a gun battery, now has benches where you can sit and enjoy lovely views of the water and the fortress off the right. The park has small rolling hills and some steps.

Go down the stairs to the tiny beach, Norrhamnsbadet.  This is a good place for a swim. You can break your walk by stopping here to sunbathe, picnic and swim.  This is a favorite spot for locals and Stockholmers.  The water is chilly even in summer, but refreshing on a warm day. 

Turn left and follow the path around.  It goes through a back yard, which is a bit disconcerting.  However, this is OK – it is legitimately the path.  It ends at a cute little red wooden house and the start of Cromhamnsgränd, a tiny alley of a street.

Interesting fact: wood was the only material you could legally build with up until 1912.  The idea was that it could easily be razed to the ground if the Russians invaded, so they wouldn’t get anything of value.  While that is no longer a threat – or a law – most houses are still built of wood. 

The small cove you are on is Norrhamnen, and is my favorite place on Vaxholm.  This is the town’s original fishing harbor, so is the oldest part of town.  There are gorgeous quintessential Swedish 19 th century colorful fisherman’s cottages (expensive places to own these days), sparkling blue water and boats, and across the tiny bay, the Hembydsgårds Café.

Turn left at the red house down Cromhamnsgränd heading away from the water.

Take the first right and then when it ends at Fisaregatan, turn right again.  Admire the lovely houses as you go.  

Take the first right again down Tradgardsgatan.  This takes you to the Hembydsgårds Café.  This famous café is absolutely the best place on the island for fika. Take your time enjoying the coffee, desserts and views of Norrhamnen.

After you have had your fill and spent enough time soaking in the beauty of the views here, head through the café towards the sea and go left, along the coast. 

You will soon get to a walkway that hangs over the water, along the bottom of a cliff. 

At the end, there is a narrow stone staircase that takes you up to the top of the cliff.  It’s not very high, so this is not difficult if you have reasonable mobility. 

From the top, veer left down Norrbergsgatan.  Turn left into Torgattan and go down 3-4 blocks to get to the Rådhus (Town Hall).  You are now in the center of the old town. There are some cute shops, restaurants and an ice cream place. 

Turn right and go one bock to Hamngatan.  Take a left and follow Hamngatan past another ice cream place to the roundabout. Follow this straight along the harbor and you will end up back at the ferry terminal/ hotel.

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Vaxholm South

Highlights: Nature trail | Vaxholm harbor |Waxholms Hotell | Vaxholm Castle

Green Trail on my map

This is a great walk if you take the bus either to or from the island.  I’ll give directions assuming you took the bus to the island (for details on taking the bus – and other options – see my Guide to Getting to Vaxholm from Stockholm ).

Get off at Pålsundsvägen stop (this is the second stop after you cross the bridge to Vaxholm Island).  The stop is just after Pålsundsvägen street.  Head down this street (to the right facing the same direction the bus was going). 

Just after the bend, you will come to a fork with a very short street/ parking area off the left.  Take this and at the end is the start of a short nature trail on your left.  Veer left and follow this along the bottom of the cliffs. 

The nature trail emerges at the end of a suburban street.  Take this, then you come to a clearing where several paths converge. 

Follow along the water’s edge.  You will pass a tiny beach. Keep following the path through a small wooded area, alongside the water.  It soon emerges at a small jetty.

Turn left away from the water up the short street, then take the first right, then right again.  Follow this street for a while, then take the third left (Őstra Ekuddsgatan).  This takes you to the Vaxholm Harbor area. 

Take a quick right/ left on to Söderhamnen, which takes you around by the water to the roundabout. 

Go right there and you will be at the Waxholms Hotell, where the ferry to Stockholm leaves from.

3. Hembydsgård Café

This is the Vaxholm café that everyone talks about and is one of the most famous Vaxholm places to visit.  Located at one end of gorgeous Norrhamnen bay, it is the perfect place for fika. 

The café has an outdoor space at the front with lovely views of the cove. There is another outdoor space at the back, which faces out on to the sea.  Both areas are lovely. 

They have a dessert smorgasbord to die for, with so many delicious looking cakes, tarts and sweets that you will have to get two or three (at least if you are as indecisive as I am).  Order, eat, drink, chat, enjoy the views and soak it all in. 

4. Shopping

Vaxholm has several cute shops to browse in, all within easy walking distance of the harbor.   You will see Vaxholm’s marine character reflected in many of the stores.

A personal favorite was Bland Kobbar & Skär (literally Among Coppers & Cuts ), a lovely gift shop where we picked up some souvenirs, including some ornaments for our Christmas tree. 

Also worth a look is Maginset, a chic homegoods store with a very Swedish aesthetic. 

We also liked Waxholms Järn & Färg ( Iron & Color ), which is not a tourist shop – they sell hardware, paint, etc. but we picked up a Swedish pennant flag like the ones you see flying from the tops of flagpoles all around the archipelago, as an unusual souvenir.  They also have boating and fishing supplies, if that’s your thing. 

The stores are open all year round.

5. Dining/ drinking

There are several ice cream places in the small town, including one right by the harbor.  It’s the perfect place to sit, enjoy your ice cream and watch the world go by.

For something more substantial, it is hard to beat the Waxholms Hotell (Vaxholm Hotel).  The yellow building is right in front of where the ferry from Stockholm docks, so it is hard to miss.  They have rooms with views of the fortress and harbor or a quiet courtyard ( check prices and availability here ).

However, for a day trip, this is great place to have lunch or enjoy a drink. They have a classic dining room as well as a bistro in summer and two bars. Head up to the patio where you have stunning views of the harbor, the castle and the surrounding islands. 

That tiny island not too far on the distance is Bastagrindet.  You can easily sip on a cocktail and watch the boats come and go between the islands all afternoon.

The hotel is open all year round, though the Bistro Kabyssen and its outdoor terrace are open May to September.

6. Cinnamon Bun Cooking Workshop

Sweden is famous for its cinnamon buns.  They are nothing like their American counterparts, which are doughy and smothered in frosting.  Swedish cinnamon are delicate knots flavored with cinnamon and cardamom.  And they are delicious.  You should definitely try some for fika – they are sold in bakeries everywhere in Stockholm and Vaxholm.

I love to take cooking classes (read my Guide to Choosing the Perfect Cooking Class ), so we really wanted to learn how to make Swedish cinnamon buns.  Although we looked high and low for a cinnamon bun cooking class, Stockholm seemed to have none on offer. 

In the end, Kevin found private cooking classes offered at the Vaxholms Bed & Breakfast .  They offer cinnamon buns baking workshop usually on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, as well as opening their garden up as a café on some days. 

We learned how to mix the ingredients, spread the dough with our cinnamon paste, and tie them into delicate knots.  The dough rose while we had refreshments, then we baked them and got to eat them fresh out of the oven (and take many home for later!)

The place is beautiful, the host was funny and charming and incredibly knowledgeable and the buns were delicious.  I can’t recommend this enough.  You can book your own private cinnamon bun workshop by emailing them . 

7. Kayaking/ Canoeing Vaxholm

What better way to explore the archipelago than by water?  You can rent a kayak or a canoe or take your own kayak and paddle around the shore, exploring the bays, paddle out to a nearby island and enjoy being out on the water. 

There are a few options for Vaxholm kayak rental:

3.5-hour canoe tour

Paddle around the archipelago and Bogesund Nature Reserve on a guided tour in a two-person canoe.  Enjoy the best of Vaxholm nature, including beavers and marine birds. Includes a rest stop for fika. Maximum 8 people.  Book the canoe tour here

4-hour kayak tour

The tour starts paddling up to and around the Vaxholm Fortress, before heading around to the other side of Vaxholm Island and into the Bogesund Nature Reserve. There you’ll find wooded shores, birds and possibly even beavers. The trip includes a stop for fika and even a dip in the Baltic if you dare (it IS cold, but you will get bragging rights and it is refreshing after paddling on a sunny summer’s day). Maximum 8 people.  Book the kayak tour here

Multi-day self-guided kayak trip

You can rent a sea kayak together with camping equipment and set out on a self-guided two-day trip or a three-day trip .  There are thousands of islands and islets to enjoy.  Paddle, stop and sunbath, swim or fish. 

Sweden has a law that you can camp anywhere as long as you are not in sight of a dwelling, so it is very easy to find somewhere to set up camp at night.  This is more than just a day trip from Stockholm, of course, but it’s a fantastic way to experience the archipelago.

An alternative to renting a kayak is to take your own and spend as much time as you like and go where you like. This isn’t as crazy as it sounds because you can buy an inflatable kayak and take it with you! If you’re interested, read my Guide to the Best Inflatable Kayaks to learn what to look for and to see the best options out there.

3-hour winter kayak tour

Kayaking is not only available in summer.  As long as the water hasn’t completely frozen, you can kayak in winter.  The 3-hour tour paddles around the castle, the old town and then around the island to the nature preserve.  You will most likely be paddling past ice.  This is a whole different perspective and a totally fun way to enjoy a winter trip to Stockholm. Maximum 2 people.    Book the winter kayak tour her e .

8. Swimming

The Baltic Sea can be chilly, but in Vaxholm swimming is popular, especially, of course, in summer. 

The most common place is Norrhamnsbadet.  This is at the western end of Battery Park.  Walk down the steps to the bottom of the short cliff and there is a small sandy beach and some rocks that make a perfect place for a dip. 

This is also a great place for a picnic.  The Hembydsgård Café is just across the way.

If you want to explore more of the island than is feasible on foot, then renting a bicycle is the way to go.  Vaxholm Cykeluthyrning , a two-minute walk from the ferry, rents bicycles by the hour and the day. 

10. Vaxholm Zipline

The Vaxholm Sky Park is actually more than just a zipline.  There are 6 different courses, with varying heights and levels of difficulty, that involve climbing, balancing and ziplining.  There is also a picnic area, so you can buy lunch in town and take it with you. 

The Sky Park is on other side of the island from the ferry and old town, so take the bus 670 to the Eriksövägen stop.

Vaxholm in winter

A lot of what I have described above is about the summer, but this is not the only time you can visit Vaxholm.  Winter may not be the best time for a dip in the Baltic, but there are plenty of other things to do including shopping, the walking tours and:

3-hour Winter kayak tour of Vaxholm

As mentioned above, as long as the water hasn’t completely frozen, you can take a kayak tour around the island, through gaps in the ice.  Seeing the snow-covered island from a kayak is a unique experience very few people get to have.  Maximum two people per tour.  Book it here .

4-hour Snow Shoe Hiking in the Archipelago

The area is a true winter wonderland when it is covered in snow.  The tour starts in Vaxholm before heading out of town in a van through the countryside to a nature preserve.  Then don your snow shoes for a 6-mile/ 10-km hike.  You may see deer and moose (or at least their tracks). Includes fika (with hot chocolate). 2-7 people.  Book the Vaxholm snow shoe hike here .

When is the best time to visit Vaxholm, Sweden?

Vaxholm is easily accessible all year round.  Obviously, the activities that you can do change with the seasons, but the stores, accommodations and restaurants are open throughout the year.  And winter brings its own attractions.  However, my heart lies in summer, and June-August is peak season when transport is most frequent, the weather is nicest and the days are long.

Vaxholm Accommodation: Where to Stay

Vaxholm is a common day trip from Stockholm, but if you want to explore the island in more detail or use this as a base to explore other islands in the archipelago, then there are several great places to stay overnight. 

Not sure how to decide what the best option is for you?  Read my Guide to Choosing the Best Hotel .

Kastellet Bed and Breakfast

How often do you get to stay in an island castle?  That’s exactly what you get to do here.  The B and B is inside the former fortress that makes up the entire island just off shore from the main Vaxholm Island.  Live out your medieval military fantasy in modern day comfort at the Vaxholm castle hotel/ B&B.

Book the Kastallet Bed & Breakfast here

Waxholms Hotell (Vaxholm hotel)

The four-star boutique hotel is the first thing you see when you arrive at Vaxholm by ferry.  Rooms have views of Vaxholm Harbor, surrounding islands and the Vaxholm castle, or the hotel courtyard.  The location, right where the ferry docks, could not be better. 

Book a room at the Waxholms Hotell here

Vaxholms Bed and Breakfast

This is an adorable place with an outdoor greenhouse set up as a reception room, a tiny shop, a lovely garden, two beautifully decorated rooms and an enormous kitchen. 

They offer cinnamon buns baking workshop, as well as opening their garden up as a café on some days.

Book a room at the Vaxholms B&B here

Planning and packing for a day trip to Vaxholm

If this is your first time to Europe, be sure to read my Europe Trip Planner .  For a travel guide on Sweden, I like the Sweden Lonely Planet.

When you are ready to think about packing, check my International Packing List to make sure you have everything you need.

Travel Insurance for Sweden

Sweden is a safe country, but even then, you never know when things can go wrong.  It always pays to be prepared by having adequate travel insurance.  Not sure what it is all about?  Read my Guide to Buying Travel Insurance.

A good insurance option is Travelex.  You can compare Travel Insurance plans here or get a quote right now:

Enjoy your day trip from Stockhom!

Do you have any tips about visiting Vaxholm to share? I’d love to hear them. Comment below. 

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Read other Stockholm posts:

• How to get to Vaxholm from Stockholm

About the author

James Ian has traveled to 82 countries and all 7 continents.  He is passionate about experiential travel, i.e. meaningful travel that actively engages with the environment and culture.  He helps people have similar experiences that involve active participation in activities and festivals; engaging with the local food and handicrafts through lessons and food tours; and interacting positively with environment by hiking, riding, rowing, diving and low/no impact animal encounters. 

Travel Collecting is a participant in the Amazon.com Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases .

Idyllisk skärgårdsstad året om med många väl bevarade trävillor från tiden kring förra sekelskiftet i skärgårdens karaktäristiska lätta pastellnyanser. Här finns ett fint utbud av trevliga restauranger, mysiga kaféer och trevliga butiker. Mer äventyrliga besökare har en mängd spännande aktiviteter att välja på som kajak och SUP-paddling eller fiske. Vaxholm når du året runt både med Waxholmsbolagets båtar och SL:s busstrafik.

Must-see attractions in Vaxholm

Vaxholm Fortress Museum

While the current structure dates from 1833, the origins of Vaxholm Fortress lie in 1544, when King Gustav Vasa ordered its construction to protect the…

Hembygdsgård

The Hembygdsgård preserves the finest old houses in Norrhamn. The fiskarebostad is an excellent example of a late-19th-century fisherman’s house, complete…

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Tour the Stockholm archipelago – a three-day adventure

A paradise awash with water-based activities, you won’t have to look far for things to do in Stockholm when visiting the magnificent archipelago islands.

The Stockholm archipelago – or ‘skärgården’ as it’s called in Swedish – is a collection of some 30,000 islands and skerries that stretches 80 kilometres eastwards from the city centre into the Baltic Sea. This idyllic destination offers all manner of activities and natural experiences in and around water – from kayaking and fishing to shoreside hiking and biking. During winter, it’s the ideal spot for an invigorating cold swim, a snowshoe hike or a snow-sprinkled yacht excursion – making it an option for visiting all year round.

You’ll find a wide array of dining spots and accommodation alternatives on islands including Vaxholm, Grinda, Sandhamn and Värmdö. Take your pick from cosy B&Bs, high-end hotels and glamping sites. With their diverse appeal, the archipelago islands make for an ideal mini-break.

Here’s a suggested three-day adventure, along with some practical information.

Good to know – Stockholm archipelago checklist

Sweden’s right to roam custom, ‘Allemansrätten’, allows you to access nature – even pitch a tent for a night or two – as long as you adhere to the golden rule: “Don’t destroy and don’t disturb”. This custom will allow you to explore even more of the archipelago. Sit down for a picnic on a sunny cliff, set off into the forest in late summer to pick wild berries and mushrooms (it’s advisable to consult an expert) or catch your own fish – you’re allowed to do so in public waters, provided you use only hand rods.

What to bring:

• Water and snacks.
• Comfortable clothes that allow for layering and protection from rain, sun and temperature shifts.
• Swimwear – for that impromptu dip.
• Flat shoes with good grip.
• Some form of photo ID – may be required for outdoor equipment rentals.

Safety note:

• Bring a portable first aid kit.
• Refrain from drinking alcohol when boating and swimming.

When embarking on water activities it’s advisable to rent equipment from a dedicated outdoor gear company – many of which are featured in this guide – as they will equip you with the necessary safety gear for your particular activity.

Norrhamnen, Vaxholm

The old fishing port Norrhamnen in Vaxholm.

Photo : Jesper Wahlström

How to get around in the Stockholm archipelago

Some parts of the archipelago – such as the bridge-connected island Vaxholm – can be reached by car and public transport from mainland Stockholm, but the most charming way to travel is by boat. Ferry company Waxholmsbolaget operates a range of services departing regularly from central Stockholm all year round – with extra departures in summer. You’ll find Waxholmsbolaget’s ferry terminal at Strömkajen harbour, in front of Grand Hôtel. Other options are the Cinderella boats, operated by Strömma . These run from the city centre pier at Strandvägen.

If you’re planning on an extended island-hopping excursion, you might benefit from purchasing Waxholmsbolaget's 5-day travel card. It gives you an unlimited number of journeys in the Stockholm archipelago during five days. All of Waxholmsbolaget's tickets and travel cards are bought on board their boats.

There are also several boat taxi companies to consider, including Båttaxi .

Travel by taxi boat in Stockholm archipelago.

Photo : Anna Hållams/imagebank.sweden.se

Day 1 – Vaxholm

Vaxholm is located an hour’s boat trip from central Stockholm, or a 40-50 minutes’ drive or bus ride. The streets of this charming town are lined with pastel-hued wooden houses from the turn of the last century, though its history dates back as far as the 1500s. Its beautiful harbour, studded with fishing cottages, is full of life.

Discover Vaxholm – sea kayak style

There’s much to discover in Vaxholm and plenty of it can be experienced from the waterside in a sea kayak. Activity hub Skärgårdens Kanotcenter offers a range of guided kayak excursions all year round and bespoke tours can be arranged in advance. The four-hour scheduled adventure includes fika and starts with a safety briefing and some practical kayaking tips. The expert guide will have you paddle past the harbour and its quaint fishing cottages while sharing stories about the area’s compelling past, which stretches back to the Viking era. You’ll also glide past the sprawling Bogesundslandet (Bogesund nature reserve), a haven for wildlife such as beavers and a diverse colony of birds.

If you prefer to set off across the water independently by SUP or canoe, these are available, too – as well as outdoor equipment such as tents, should you wish to stay the night out in nature. Thanks to Sweden’s right to roam custom, this is allowed.

Take the cable ferry to Kastellet (Vaxholm Fortress)

For a spot of history, or simply an excuse for another scenic boat ride, hop aboard the electric-powered cable ferry that runs regularly from the harbour (Kajplats 9/Strandgatan 3) to Vaxholm Fortress – a huge edifice with a history stretching back to the 16th century. Now serving as a fascinating museum, guided tours are available and ferries run every 15 minutes between May and September.

Wintertime must-dos – snowshoe hiking and winter swimming

Vaxholm is a year-round destination with a charming, historic town centre and a wealth of outdoor activities on offer even during the colder months. Winter swimming is good for you (provided you don’t suffer from any heart condition) and a wood-fired sauna awaits as you emerge from your invigorating dip, courtesy of Skärgårdens Kanotcenter .

Snowshoe hiking is another Stockholm archipelago wintertime hit offered by the same company. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes as you make your way peacefully across the frozen shorelines.

Fresh seafood for dinner – followed by homemade ice cream

Take the opportunity to sample some freshly caught fish and seafood. Melanders is a Stockholm mainstay and its vibrant, centrally located Vaxholm summer restaurant serves a diverse menu spanning Swedish classics such as prawn sandwiches, salmon salads and anything in between.

There’s also plenty of homemade ice cream on the island (so delicious it inspires many Stockholmers to make a special trip). Try Glass På Hörnet or Waxholms Glassbar – both of which offer a range of delicious and creative flavours, as well as classics.

Stay the night at Waxholms Hotell

Located right next to the harbour, Waxholms Hotell is a four-star boutique hotel complete with a range of rooms and suites, some of which overlook the water. Dining options include a cosy seaside bistro.

Waxholms Hotell

Waxholms Hotell in the picturesque small town Vaxholm, in the Stockholm archipelago.

Photo : Jonas Borg

Photo : Henrik Trygg/Visit Sweden

Hiking at Vaxholm

Vaxholm Fortress, Stockholm

Photo : Agence les Conteurs

Stockholm archipelago in winter

Photo : Visit Stockholm

Day 2 – Grinda and/or Sandhamn

Depending on how much time you have on your hands, you can visit either Grinda or Sandhamn or both, in one day.

A natural haven known for its beautiful beaches, the entire island of Grinda is a nature reserve. Sandhamn, meanwhile, has a long history as a sailing hub and attracts a lively community of boaters and yachters, particularly during the summer.

Take advantage of Grinda’s beautiful beaches

Reachable by a 1-hour boat trip from Vaxholm (leaving twice daily from 23 June to 15 August), you’ll find island Grinda. Celebrated as a holiday paradise, the natural beauty of Grinda is remarkable and its endless beaches and smooth, sun-drenched rocks make it a magnet for Stockholmers wanting to escape city life. You might be tempted to settle at one of the most popular beaches, but you’re equally free to seek out a secluded rock or sandy expanse.

Have lunch at Grinda Wärdshus

Enjoying a prime position on the southern part of the island, a stone’s throw from the guest harbour, the restaurant Framfickan at Grinda Wärdshus is a popular haunt perfect for people watching – if you’re able to avert your gaze from the stunning sea views. The seafood stew and the fish burgers are classics that many return to, time and time again.

Set sail – with Sandhamn as your base

Located in the outer part of the Stockholm archipelago, Sandhamn is one of the fancier islands and a particular draw for famous writers and artists. To travel from Vaxholm to Sandhamn, take the Cinderella boat, which departs once a day on Saturdays and Sundays in the summertime. You’ll arrive in Sandhamn in approximately 50 min.

If setting off from Grinda, the Cinderella boat will pick you up at Grinda Södra Bryggan, reaching Sandhamn after some 50 min. (The same service runs to and from central Stockholm’s Strandvägen.)

Sandhamn has a long history as a sailing hub and there are plenty of opportunities to set off on a sailing excursion. Sailing company Seglingsevenemang AB will tailor a sailing experience for you and take you to your desired destination safely.

The company is also on hand to organise island-hopping yacht experiences, tacking among a myriad of islands and anchoring up wherever you fancy. In winter, you’re even often able to take a boat trip in the snow – anything is possible as long as the waters are open.

Stroll along Trouville’s white sandy beach

Don’t leave Sandhamn without ambling along its white sandy beach, Trouville. You’ll find it a 20-minute walk away from the harbour. If a longer hike takes your fancy, there are several trails to choose from that lead from Trouville Beach and into the varied landscape of the island.

Stay the night at Sandhamn Seglarhotell

Continuing the sailing theme, spend the night at the high-end Sandhamn Seglarhotell (Yacht Hotel). This iconic four-star hotel – housed in a spruced-up 19th century red building – is replete with tasteful nautical-themed rooms, a gym, sauna and spa. If you opt to stay here, the hotel offers a range of activities, including sailing and guided fishing trips.

The island of Grinda, in the Stockholm archipelago, is a nature reserve with both beaches and sun-drenched rocks.

Photo : Henrik Trygg/imagebank.sweden.se

Grinda Wärdshus

Framfickan, Grinda

Sandhamn, Sandön

Trouville beach on the island of Sandön, Stockholm

Photo : Anna Hållams

Sandhamn Seglarhotell in the archipelago of Stockholm

Day 3 – Värmdö

Nestled in the middle of the Stockholm archipelago, Värmdö offers a wealth of activities across varied landscapes.

To get to Värmdö from Sandhamn, take the ferry (an hour’s journey) to Stavsnäs Vinterhamn and catch a bus to Värmdö’s Ålstäket (approx. 30 min). If travelling from Grinda to Värmdö, take the boat from Grinda Södra Bryggan to Boda Brygga (25 min) and catch a bus from there to Värmdö’s Ålstäket (30 min).

Go fishing in Värmdö’s waters

Fishing trip organiser Catch & Relax offers year-round excursions – mostly involving fly-fishing – suitable for all and lasting for a full or half-day, or any duration that suits you. A popular option involves a 24-foot Bay Boat, suitable for 1-3 people, from which you’ll catch fish such as northern pike, perch and sea trout. These experiences are tailor-made, allowing you to choose where you’d like to fish.

Thanks to Sweden’s right to roam policy, you’re free to rent hand rods and go fishing independently in public waters.

Have a game of beach volleyball at Grisslinge Havsbad

Grisslinge Havsbad in the centre of Värmdö is a much-loved stretch of sandy beach known for its clear, rather shallow water. Aside from swimming, additional waterside activities on offer include beach volleyball. This beach hub is complete with a guest jetty, outdoor showers and changing rooms. Eateries include Robin Delselius' Bakery (bakery and patisserie) and Ålstäkets Grill (hamburgers). There is also a playground if you’re travelling with kids.

Dine and stay the night at the historic Siggesta Gård

Immersed in the greenery in the northern part of Värmdö, a 20-minute bus ride (number 439) from Grisslinge, Siggesta Gård is a modern accommodation concept housed in a multi-building farm dating from the 19th century. This Stockholm archipelago attraction is replete with an excellent restaurant – Ladugården – with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal produce. Moreover, its on-site event space has been dubbed a “palace of culture and entertainment”, playing host to all manner of events such as theatrical performances and concerts. Accommodation types range from contemporary-style single rooms with queen size beds to sprawling suites.

Before heading back to central Stockholm, make sure to take advantage of some of the experiences on offer in the nature surrounding the farm – mountain biking, trail walking, themed mini-golf, and SUP-rental included. Acquaint yourself with the resident animals – Siggesta Gård is home to alpacas, chickens, goats and horses. You might even get the opportunity to join a feeding session, and pony rides are sometimes available for children. It may sound like a cliché, but you’ll find that the expression “something for everyone” does ring true in the Stockholm archipelago.

Siggesta Gård, Värmdö

Siggesta Gård is a farm on Värmdö with a restaurant, hotel and glamping in beautiful surroundings. The farm has animal gardens with chickens, goats, horses and alpacas.

Photo : Siggesta Gård

Alpacas at Siggesta Gård, Värmdö

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Explore stockholm archipelago, from cabins to glamping – accommodation in the stockholm archipelago, getting around stockholm archipelago, 10 reasons to visit stockholm’s archipelago off-season.

Explore Vaxholm

Plan your trip to vaxholm: best of vaxholm tourism.

Essential Vaxholm

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• Waxholms Hotell
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• Matsalen Restaurant
• Vaxholms Fästnings Museum
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• Winter kayaking and fika tour - islands of Stockholm Archipelago
• Kayaking tour around Vaxholm in Stockholm Archipelago
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• Family and kids friendly private kayak tour in Stockholm Archipelago

The Vaxholm Fortress Museum is both a museum and hotel

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The Vaxholm Fortress Museum

Vaxholm is a historic fortification on an island in the Stockholm archipelago.

The history of the Vaxholm Fortress begins early in the 16th century when King Gustav Vasa instructed the governor of Stockholm to replace the blockhouse with a stone tower. Since 2003 the museum has been totally restored. The museum’s indoor department occupies thirty beautiful rooms and halls on both floors of the west section. Visitors see the fortress as it was in 1854, and can enter one of the Citadel’s bomb-proof vaults and see how things were during the Crimean War. In other settings, you can call in on the Commandant, follow the issuing of orders aim a mining battery or visit the World War II coastal defence artillery post

See also: Visit the Stockholm Archipelago

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• Lattitude: 59.380936
• Longitude: 18.412708

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Skärgårdsbåtens dag

Njut av en sommarkväll i Stockholms innerskärgård. En resa med klassisk skärgårdsbåt tar dig ut till Vaxholm för ett par timmars festligheter iland, med marknad, musik och mat. Avgång från Strömkajen, utanför Nationalmuseum, klockan 18:00. Välkommen att fira evenemangets 60-årsjubileum!

Strömkajen, Stockholm / Söderhamnen, Vaxholm

Södra Blasieholmshamnen 9

Photo: Anna Hugosson

One day in Stockholm – 24 hours of fun

Publish date : 24 April 2024

Visiting Stockholm for only one day? Here are some suggestions on how to get the most out of your 24 hours in town.

Stockholm is a small to medium-sized capital, with great interconnectivity between its central districts. So anyone who's visiting for a limited period of time will still be able to experience quite a lot.

First things first: treat yourself to a good breakfast. Many cafés in Stockholm have breakfast specials. Pom and Flora , Greasy Spoon , and Nytorget 6 are some of the most popular on Södermalm. Kaferang and Campfire are good choices in central Stockholm. Pascal and Ritorno are great options in Vasastan.

If you're visiting during the weekend and would prefer a hearty brunch to kick off the day STHLM Brunch Club , Greasy Spoon , Rival , and Berns Asiatiska are good choices. Find more brunch and breakfast restaurants in our brunch guide !

While enjoying your meal, now's also a good time to decide how you'd like to spend your day.

Get to know the districts in Stockholm

Want to know more about what to see and do in Stockholm's different areas? Read our district guides for local tips on museums, attractions, shops, restaurants, and cafés!

• District guide to Södermalm – Hip and trendy. Lots of innovative restaurants, homey cafés, and unique shops.
• District guide to Gamla Stan (Old Town) – Stockholm's oldest neighborhood. Has many cozy restaurants and cafés, and historic attractions like the Royal Palace.
• District guide to Djurgården – Part green oasis, part museum hotspot. ABBA The Museum, Skansen, and Gröna Lund's amusement park are all located here.
• District guide to Stockholm City (Norrmalm ) – Stockholm's busiest and most central part. Apart from its many shops and restaurants, the Central Station is located here.
• District guide to Östermalm – Upscale neighborhood with several cultural institutions, like the Royal Dramatic Theatre. Has a large concentration of high-end shops and fine-dining restaurants.
• District guide to Vasastan – Residential area to the north of Norrmalm. Full of culture as well as some of Stockholm's most talked about restaurants.
• District guide to Kungsholmen – Home to one of Stockholm's most prominent landmarks; The City Hall. Residential and commercial areas, with many great places for a meal or a cup of coffee.

The classics

• If you're aiming to see some of the most famous attractions, City Hall is a good starting point. The Nobel Banquet is held annually in this beautiful building, a prime example of Swedish Grace in architecture. From the tower, you get a fantastic view of the entire city.
• Just a short walk from City Hall is Gamla Stan , the Old Town. It's Stockholm's oldest district and one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in the world. Among the more notable attractions in Gamla Stan are The Royal Palace and Stockholm Cathedral .

• Many of Stockholm's most beloved attractions are located on the green island of Djurgården and can be easily reached by taking the computer ferry from Gamla Stan. The Vasa Museum , Abba The Museum , and Skansen Open Air Museum are all found here, within walking distance from one another. Visiting them all during the same day might be a little much though, so focus on one!

The newcomers

Maybe you've been to Stockholm before, one or two times, with all the classic boxes ticked already. Maybe you're simply eager to see what's new since your last visit. Here are some suggestions!

• The Swedish Holocaust Museum is Stockholm's newest museum. Its mission is to preserve and pass on the memory of the Holocaust, and deepen the knowledge of how it relates to Swedish history. The museum was founded in 2022, albeit as a digital museum and information bank. But in June of 2023, it opened at a permanent location on Torsgatan in central Stockholm.
• In December 2023 The National Museum of Technology and Science cut the ribbon on its new dome cinema: Wisdome . Wisdome will show films and presentations about space exploration, the human body, and technology. Wisdome's key feature is its architecture; the building is made mostly out of wood. The roof, ceiling, floor, pillars, furniture, and spheric movie theaters are made out of LVL and CTL, a type of cross-laminated wood.
• The Cell – a joint venture between The National Museum of Technology and Science and The Karolinska Institue – opened in April 2024. The Cell is an exhibition hall where cutting-edge life science meets art. Discover artworks that explore scientific discoveries, questions about life and humanity, and present new finds in unique ways.

Stockholm's restaurant scene is ever-changing, with new eateries popping up monthly.

Currently, there's a lot of gastronomic buzz surrounding Slakthusområdet (Stockholm's former meat-packing district). The latest restaurant to open, in early 2024, Afrika Sthlm , joining neighbors like Bar Montan and Solen .

Other newcomers are Indian-Swedish fusion restaurant India´s , Rosetta's plant-based and vegan-friendly take on American soul food, deluxe hot dogs at Banger , and Gondolen's sister restaurant/neighbor Café Klotet .

Find more restaurant news in our guide about new and trendy restaurants .

Experience Stockholm like a local

If you're looking to experience the city as Stockholmers do every day, the first order of business should be to grab a cup of coffee. Swedes love coffee, so much so that Sweden consistently places itself among the world's 3-5 most coffee-drinking countries. And even if you've just had coffee for breakfast, you should probably plan your day to have a couple of café options along the way.

Secondly, many Stockholmers prefer taking the subway or bus, to driving a car in the city. Seeing as the metro often is described as the world's longest art exhibition you'll always have something interesting to look at while waiting for your train. As to where that train might take you, a lovely vista of Stockholm like the City Hall as mentioned earlier (T-Centralen or Rådhuset), Skinnarviksberget (Zinkensdamm), or Monteliusvägen (Mariatorget or Slussen) might be a good start.

Visiting Stockholm is a great opportunity to stock up on Scandinavian design, known for its "less is more" approach to practical design. Swedish design has also led the way in transitioning into more sustainable products and production chains. You'll find both timeless classics like Svenskt Tenn and Carl Malmsteen and contemporary boutiques like Norrgavel and Nordiska Galleriet .

While these might be on the high-end spectrum, Granit , IKEA City , and Designtorget are good options for affordable everyday items. If you're looking for Swedish fashion, Asket , Rodebjer , Hope , and Acne are good places to start.

Will I have time for the Stockholm archipelago?

While the Stockholm archipelago is close to the City, just 20 minutes away by boat, some of its most popular destinations – like the islands of Sandön, Grinda, and Utö – are further away from the city, better suited for a whole day's worth of getting-too and exploring.

If you want a sample taste of the archipelago but are short on time Fjäderholmarna , Gustavsberg and Vaxholm are better options.

• The Fjäderholmarna islands are located just 25-30 minutes by boat from central Stockholm (depending on which ferry you take). Fjäderholmarna, visible from Nacka, Djurgården, and Lidingö spring up to life during the summer months when several restaurants, cafés, and craft shops open up in the former fishing cottages.
• Gustavsberg , on the island of Värmdö, is easily reached with several local transportation buses departing from Slussen (taking some 30 minutes). In the picturesque harbor, you'll find several restaurants, cafés, and shops. Located here is also the renowned Gustavsbergs porcelain factory. The factory is still in operation, although much of the production has been relocated abroad, and you'll find the Gustavberg Porcelain Museum close by as well as shops selling household ceramics and porcelain.
• Vaxholm can be reached by taking commuter ferry no. 83 from Slussen (an approximately 1-hour trip) or bus no. 670 from Tekniska Högskolan (45-50 minutes). Vaxholm is a charming and cozy town in the inner-archipelago, with many well-preserved wooden houses from the turn of the last century painted in the archipelago’s typical delicate pastel tones. Its most notable feature though is the old fortress, now a hotel and museum open during the summer.

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