Sweden is a vast country, with more to see and do than you could pack into a single trip. But, if you are staying in Stockholm, you can get a flavour of what the country has to offer by taking a short trip into the surrounding area, to discover countryside, islands and small towns. Here are a few of the best day trips from Stockholm, all possible with public transport.
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Stockholm Archipelago Tour
From the Swedish capital you can head out to explore the Stockholm Archipelago. This incredible archipelago is just 20 minutes from central Stockholm and boasts over 30,000 islands, so there’s a lot to see.
The islands of Fjäderholmarna, Gustavsberg, Värmdö, and Vaxholm are all popular destinations, with Vaxholm Fortress being an popular tourist attraction. Each of these islands is accessible by local ferry, with the journey taking under an hour. Services are run by the public transportation company Waxholmsbolaget and the privately owned Cinderellabåtarna.
Alternatively, you can take a guided tour, and there are plenty of Stockholm archipelago tours to choose from. This is a great way to learn about the area, as you’ll have a local guide or audio commentary. Some archipelago tours last between 1½ and 2½ hours, so you’ll get to experience the area’s highlights. Travellers with more time can enjoy a full-day tour, lasting between 4 to 8 hours. Whether you’re after a traditional boat trip, fast-paced rib tour, or guided kayaking, there’s something for everyone.
No matter how you choose to explore the Stockholm Archipelago, keep your eyes peeled for eagles soaring above. You might even spot seals if you’re lucky.
(Contributed by Abbie & Jack of A Couples Calling)
Drottningholm Palace
Situated on an island in Lake Mälar, Drottningholm Palace is the private residence of the Swedish royal family. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, regarded as a fine example of an 18th century royal palace inspired by Versailles in France. The UNESCO inscription particularly mentions the perfectly preserved theatre, built in 1766 but still in use, and the small but ornate Chinese Pavilion.
Visitors can also explore the public areas of the palace and the gardens. The interior is full of ornate objects and paintings, reflecting a mixture of modern and classical influences. And the gardens are extensive, a mixture of formal plantings and more natural rolling parkland. Don’t miss the Baroque Garden with its series of fountains and statues.
It is possible to travel to Drottningholm by boat from the centre of Stockholm. Alternatively you can take the train to Brommaplan and then get a bus.
Södertälje
Södertälje, just a 40-minute train ride southwest of Stockholm, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly day trip. Known for its charming waterfront and historical significance, this town offers a perfect escape from the bustling city.
A must-visit attraction here is the Tom Tits Experiment, an interactive science museum that is great for curious minds of all ages. The museum is on four floors and it has an exciting array of hands-on exhibits in physics, biology, and technology, making it both educational and fun for the whole family. A wonderful thing is that the attraction is included in the Stockholm All-Inclusive Pass, which gives the card holder free access. Near to the museum, visitors can grab a bite at Turinge Ost & Vin, a cosy café and deli known for its local produce and delightful pastries.
To reach Södertälje, hop on a commuter train – Pendeltåg Line 36 – from Stockholm Central Station. The scenic journey takes around 40 minutes and is a perfect addition to your Stockholm adventure.
(Contributed by Kenny of Knycx Journeying)
Uppsala
Visit Uppsala for a vibrant university town, rune stones and ancient graves. The city is home to Sweden’s oldest university, and this gives it a lively atmosphere. Walk along the river, lined with old buildings and cafés, towards Uppsala Cathedral, a remarkable 13th century Gothic building full of priceless artefacts. A particular feature of the cathedral is the many rune stones, both inside the building and on a grassy area outside.
Elsewhere in the city is the Linnaeus Museum and Garden, dedicated to the famous 18th century biologist. And there are numerous bars, restaurants and modern shops.
However, for anyone with an interest in history a visit to Gamla Uppsala is a must. Just a short bus ride (4 km) from the city, this is the old town of Uppsala. Here you can explore around 300 burial mounds from the 6th to the 12th centuries, supposedly the last resting place of many pre-Viking kings. You will also find a medieval church and three museums. The Old Uppsala Museum tells the story of the Royal Mounds, and the Disagården Museum is an open air museum of historic farm buildings.
To get to Uppsala take a train from Stockholm Central Station. The journey takes around 40 minutes.
Sigtuna
Sigtuna is Sweden’s oldest town. On the edge of Lake Mälaren, it was an early centre of Christianity, and is known for its many medieval churches, wooden houses, and Viking rune stones.
Read more about visiting Sigtuna – History And Rune Stones In Sigtuna.
Other Ideas For Day Trips From Stockholm
There are several other easy day trips that you could take from Stockholm. The historic Mariefred, with its imposing Gripsholm Castle, can be reached by boat from the city centre in the summer months. A little further afield – and, again, accessible by boat in the summer – is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Birka, a historic Viking trading centre on the island of Björkö in Lake Mälaren.
And there are also numerous options available for guided tours from Stockholm. You could visit three different palaces on a Royal Palace and Castle Tour, explore different Viking sites on a Viking Culture Tour, or get out into nature on a Summer Nature Hike.
