If you’re looking for a bit of an adventure in close proximity to the city, a day trip is an excellent opportunity. Each of these day trips offers a unique glimpse into Swedish history, culture, and a chance to experience more of Sweden’s nature. Taking a day trip to a nearby location is a great way of experiencing different parts of Sweden during your trip to the capital.
Island Trips to Stockholm Archipelago
Fjäderholm Islands
Fjäderholm Islands, Fjäderholmarna in Swedish, are Stockholm’s closest archipelago islands and only a 30-minute boat ride from the city center (or a quick 5-minute ride from Nacka Strand). This family-friendly destination offers beaches and swimming, local craft shops, and a good selection of restaurants. You can also visit a small brewery or enjoy handmade chocolates from the main island’s confectionery. It lacks overnight facilities, so it’s ideal for a short and memorable day trip, offering a taste of the archipelago while staying conveniently close to the city.
Read more about Fjäderholm Islands
Vaxholm
A charming archipelago town featuring a historic 16th-century fortress, a town center with shops, cafés, and traditional wooden homes. Here you can explore the fortress museum, enjoy a Swedish fika, buy some souvenirs, or stroll around the island while taking in scenic views of the water and nature. The main island is accessible via both land and sea, while the fortress is just a 5-minute boat taxi ride away. It’s a delightful blend of history and idyllic scenery.
Sandhamn
Sandhamn is a popular resort destination in the eastern archipelago, known for its sandy beaches and bustling marina. You can rent bikes or kayaks to explore the island, relax by the shore, or observe the Round Gotland Race sailing competition (Gotland runt), which starts and ends here. Sandhamn caters to a range of visitors, offering both peaceful nature experiences and lively summer nightlife with bars and events. This island is equally popular with sailing enthusiasts as with those looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and good food. If you want to stay for the night there are two hotels and a B&B on the island.
Grinda
Grinda is an archipelago island about an hour by boat from Stockholm. It’s ideal for hiking, relaxing, or enjoying the flavors of the archipelago cuisine. This small, rural island is accessible year-round by ferry, and is perfect for nature lovers, families, and adventurers alike. Unwind on sandy beaches or rocky coves, swim in clear waters, or rent kayaks to explore the island from the sea. A popular sauna near the water provides an opportunity to relax after a day of activities. For dining, Grinda Wärdshus offers fine cuisine with stunning views, while Framfickan provides casual meals right by the water.
Historical Locations and Towns
Sigtuna
One of Sweden’s oldest towns, located on Lake Mälaren, Sigtuna dates back to the 10th century and is rich in history. Explore its ancient runestones, medieval church ruins, and visit the museum with Viking-era exhibits. Located one hour by public transport from Stockholm’s city center (or 40 minutes by car), this small town is easily walkable, and offers a blend of history, culture, and nature.
Mariefred
A picturesque town featuring the impressive Gripsholm Castle from the 16th century and a beautiful 12th-century church. Stroll through its quaint streets lined with wooden houses, shops, and cafés. Nearby, you can explore a deer park and nature reserve that include ancient castle remnants, a grave field, and historic walkways.
Birka
Located on the northern part of the island Björkö – west of Stockholm – Birka is a former Viking Age trading post where you can explore a Viking museum showcasing artifacts like weapons, jewelry, and tools used by the Vikings. The island also features well-marked hiking trails leading to historical burial mounds and offering stunning views of Lake Mälaren. Just like Sigtuna it’s a mix of history, culture, and nature.
Uppsala
A more urban option with interesting university grounds, Uppsala is full of history and charm. Start your visit at Uppsala Cathedral (Uppsala Domkyrka), the tallest cathedral in Scandinavia, built in the 13th century. Then, head to the museum in Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala) to explore ancient burial mounds and learn about the Viking settlement that once thrived there. Don’t miss Uppsala Castle (Uppsala Slott), a historic site that houses the Uppsala Art Museum with both contemporary and historical artworks. The castle grounds also offer stunning views of the city. Getting to Uppsala is easy: it’s just a 40-minute ride on the SJ train or about an hour with the SL commuter train. Most attractions in Uppsala are within walking distance of each other.
Drottningholm Palace
Drottningholm Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site just a short distance from Stockholm. Visit the grand royal residence with its beautifully preserved 17th-century interiors and stroll through the magnificent Baroque gardens. The historic Court Theatre and Chinese Pavilion are two additional attractions that provide a unique glimpse into Swedish royal history. The palace grounds, open year-round, feature three distinct garden styles: the formal Baroque Garden, the picturesque English Park, and the serene Chinese Pavilion Gardens. You can reach the island by both land and sea. Getting to Drottningholm from Stockholm is about an hour by boat or 40 minutes by public transport.
Read more about Drottningholm Palace
Skokloster Castle
Skokloster Castle is one of the best-preserved Baroque castles in the world and the largest private palace ever built in Sweden. Inside, walk through its grand halls and get a glimpse of life in 17th-century Sweden. Nearby, visit Skokloster Church, Sweden’s second-oldest brick church, built in the late 13th century for Cistercian nuns. Guided tours are available in both English and Swedish to help you learn more about these historic sites. After your visit, enjoy a Swedish fika at Skokloster Kafferosteri & Café, a cozy coffee roastery near the castle. The easiest way to travel to Skokloster Castle from Stockholm is either by car, about an hour, or by public transport, which will take about 1,5 hours. You can also take a boat with the Strömma boat company during the summer months (June-August). The round-trip takes 8,5 hours and includes a 2 hour stop for exploring the castle.