Exploring Stockholm’s Archipelago: Day Trips and Island Adventures

When I first arrived in Stockholm, I was immediately captivated by the city’s unique geography. Exploring these islands was a highlight of my trip, providing a blend of tranquility, adventure, and cultural richness.

In this blog post, I’ll share my experiences exploring the Stockholm Archipelago, offering detailed insights into the best day trips and island adventures, how to get there, and tips to make the most of your visit.

Setting Off: Getting to the Archipelago

The journey to the archipelago is an adventure in itself. Ferries are the main mode of transportation, and there are two primary operators: Waxholmsbolaget and Cinderella Boats.

Ferry Services

• Waxholmsbolaget: This ferry service is the backbone of the archipelago’s transport system. Operating year-round, it serves most of the larger islands and offers more routes during the summer. I found their services reliable and reasonably priced. Tickets can be purchased online, at the terminal, or even on board, though it’s better to book in advance, especially during the peak summer months.
• Cinderella Boats: If you’re short on time and want to reach the farther islands quicker, Cinderella Boats is your go-to option. They operate primarily in the summer, with routes to popular destinations like Sandhamn and Möja. The speed of these boats can save you valuable time, allowing for more exploration once you’re on the islands.

Departure Points

Most ferries depart from Strömkajen, located near the Grand Hotel in central Stockholm. It’s a convenient location, easily accessible by public transport or a short walk from the Old Town (Gamla Stan). Other departure points include Nybroviken and Slussen, both centrally located as well.

Travel Tips

• Check the Weather: The weather can change rapidly in the archipelago. Even on a sunny day, it’s wise to pack a light jacket or raincoat.
• Bring Snacks: While some islands have restaurants or cafés, they can be sparse on smaller islands. Packing a picnic is a great way to ensure you’re well-fed throughout the day.
• Plan Your Return: Make sure you’re aware of the last ferry back to Stockholm. Missing the last boat can mean an unexpected overnight stay on the island!

With the logistics sorted, let me take you through some of the islands I explored, each offering its own unique charm and experiences.

1. Vaxholm: The Gateway to the Archipelago

My first stop was Vaxholm, often referred to as the gateway to the archipelago. Just an hour away from Stockholm by ferry, Vaxholm is one of the more developed islands, blending historical charm with natural beauty.

What to Do in Vaxholm

• Vaxholm Fortress: The island is dominated by its 16th-century fortress, which has been meticulously preserved. I spent a good portion of my day exploring the Vaxholm Fortress Museum, which offers a deep dive into Sweden’s naval history. The views from the fortress are stunning, providing a panoramic look over the surrounding waters.
• Stroll Through the Town: Vaxholm’s town center is charming, with its narrow streets lined with colorful wooden houses, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. I enjoyed wandering through the town, soaking in the atmosphere, and stopping for a traditional Swedish fika (coffee and pastry break).
• Kayaking: For those looking to get closer to nature, renting a kayak is a great option. The waters around Vaxholm are calm, making it ideal for beginners. Paddling around the island offers a different perspective and a peaceful way to explore the surrounding nature.

Getting There and Back

Ferries to Vaxholm are frequent, with several departures daily from Strömkajen. The journey takes about an hour, making it an easy and convenient day trip. If you’re staying late, check the ferry schedule to ensure you catch one of the last boats back to Stockholm.

2. Grinda: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

After Vaxholm, I wanted to experience something more rugged and natural, so I headed to Grinda, an island known for its unspoiled landscapes. Grinda is part of a nature reserve, offering a mix of forests, meadows, and beaches.

Activities on Grinda

• Hiking: Grinda has several well-marked hiking trails that take you through forests, open fields, and along the coastline. The trails are easy to follow, and the terrain is gentle, making it accessible for all fitness levels. I spent a couple of hours exploring the island on foot, enjoying the serenity and the beautiful views of the Baltic Sea.
• Swimming and Sunbathing: Grinda has several small beaches, perfect for a summer swim. I visited in late summer, and the water was surprisingly warm. The beaches are less crowded than those closer to Stockholm, offering a more peaceful experience.
• Dining at Grinda Wärdshus: For lunch, I stopped at Grinda Wärdshus, a charming inn located near the main harbor. The food was excellent, with a focus on local ingredients. I particularly enjoyed the fresh fish, caught locally and prepared with traditional Swedish flavors.

Getting There and Back

Grinda is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Stockholm by ferry. Waxholmsbolaget and Cinderella Boats both offer services to Grinda, with more frequent departures in the summer. It’s a good idea to plan your visit around the ferry schedule, as services are less frequent in the off-season.

3. Sandhamn: The Sailing Hub

Sandhamn is one of the most famous islands in the archipelago, known for its sailing culture and vibrant summer atmosphere. The island is a bit farther out, taking about 2.5 hours by ferry, but it’s well worth the journey.

Things to Do in Sandhamn

• Explore the Village: Sandhamn’s village is picturesque, with red wooden houses, narrow streets, and a lively harbor filled with sailboats. I spent the morning wandering through the village, visiting the small shops and enjoying a coffee by the water.
• Hit the Beach: Sandhamn has several beaches, with Trouville being the most popular. The beach is located on the eastern side of the island and is known for its white sand and clear waters. It’s a bit of a walk from the village, but the path is scenic, taking you through forests and along the coastline.
• Sailing: If you’re into sailing, Sandhamn is the place to be. The island is a hub for sailing in Sweden, and there are opportunities to rent boats or even join a sailing tour. While I didn’t have the chance to sail myself, watching the boats come and go from the harbor was a highlight of my visit.

Getting There and Back

Given the distance, Sandhamn is best visited as a full-day trip. Ferries from central Stockholm take about 2.5 hours, with services offered by both Waxholmsbolaget and Cinderella Boats. In the summer, there are additional fast boats that reduce travel time, making it more convenient for a day trip.

4. Möja: An Authentic Archipelago Experience

For a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience, I decided to visit Möja, a larger island that’s still very much a living community. Möja has a year-round population and is known for its fishing villages and natural beauty.

Exploring Möja

• Biking Around the Island: Möja is ideal for cycling, with several roads and trails connecting the different villages. I rented a bike near the harbor and spent the day exploring the island at my own pace. The ride took me through forests, past fields of wildflowers, and along the rugged coastline.
• Visit the Fishing Villages: Möja has several small fishing villages, each with its own charm. Berg, the main village, has a small museum dedicated to the island’s history and culture. It was fascinating to learn about the traditional way of life in the archipelago.
• Try Local Delicacies: Möja is known for its seafood, particularly herring. I had lunch at Wikström’s Fisk, a small restaurant in Berg, where I enjoyed some of the freshest fish I’ve ever tasted. The herring, prepared in several different ways, was a standout dish.

Getting There and Back

Möja is a bit farther out, with the ferry ride taking about 2.5 to 3 hours from Stockholm. Waxholmsbolaget offers regular services, but as with the other islands, it’s important to check the schedule in advance. Given the travel time, I’d recommend starting early in the morning to make the most of your day on the island.

5. Fjäderholmarna: A Quick Escape

If you’re short on time but still want to experience the archipelago, Fjäderholmarna is the perfect option. Located just 30 minutes from Stockholm, this small group of islands offers a quick escape from the city.

What to Do on Fjäderholmarna

• Artisanal Shops: Fjäderholmarna is known for its craft shops and galleries. I spent a pleasant afternoon browsing through the shops, which sell everything from handmade jewelry to traditional Swedish crafts. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.
• Dining: The island has several restaurants, with Fjäderholmarnas Krog being the most famous. I had dinner there, enjoying a delicious meal of fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the water. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the views were spectacular.
• Beach: There’s a small beach on the island, perfect for a quick swim. While it’s not as expansive as the beaches on the larger islands, it’s a nice spot to relax and enjoy the sunshine.

Getting There and Back

Fjäderholmarna is just a 30-minute ferry ride from central Stockholm, making it an ideal destination for a half-day trip. Ferries run frequently, especially in the summer, so it’s easy to plan a visit even if you’re short on time.

Tips for a Successful Archipelago Adventure

• Pack Light: When hopping between islands, it’s best to travel light. A small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a jacket should suffice.
• Respect Nature: The archipelago is a protected area, so it’s important to respect the environment. Stick to marked trails, don’t litter, and be mindful of wildlife.
• Interact with Locals: The islands have small, tight-knit communities. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with locals—they’re often more than happy to share stories or give recommendations.
• Stay Flexible: Ferry schedules can change, and weather can be unpredictable. Keeping your plans flexible will help you make the most of your time in the archipelago.

Exploring Stockholm’s Archipelago was an unforgettable experience that gave me a deeper appreciation for Sweden’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Each island offers its own unique charm, from the bustling village life of Sandhamn to the serene landscapes of Grinda.