best road trips from stockholm

The 8 Best Day Trips From Stockholm, Sweden

If you're in Stockholm with a day to spare, enjoy a day trip

Marco Bottigelli/Getty Images

The best day trips from Stockholm for visitors are the ones that fit well with your trip. One size does not fit all. The following ideas for day trips from Stockholm cover the interesting history and charming cities, while some day trip ideas simply offer a relaxing day in southern Sweden .

A Scenic Day Trip to Gävle

The romantic town of Gävle, Sweden, is only about 100 miles north of Stockholm which makes Gävle one of the best day trips from Stockholm. The town offers attractions, shopping, art, and Sweden's best chocolate! When it comes to Gävle's natural beauty, the rivers of Gavilan and Testeboan bring life to this quaint city on ​Sweden's east coast.

The Historic Island of Gotland

The island of Gotland, Sweden, is found off the east coast of Sweden, about 125 mi (200 km) south of Stockholm. You can get to Gotland from Stockholm by car and ferry, or by air. Gotland is famous for its long sandy beaches since the island is one of Sweden's best beach destinations . Then there's bicycling and hiking, 94 beautiful medieval churches, and the town of Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage site .

A Day Trip From Stockholm to Finland

Yes, you can plan a day trip from Stockholm to the Finnish capital Helsinki . Just don't plan on taking the 16-hour ferry, instead use one of the 1-hour flights across the Baltic Sea to turn it into a quick hop across the sea. Helsinki is a very beautiful and interesting city and is definitely worth a visit, if only for a day or two!

An Interesting Day in Uppsala

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Uppsala is an interesting city with lots of historic buildings, romantic little cafes, and vibrant nightlife. To get from Stockholm to Uppsala (or from Uppsala back to Stockholm), most take the twice-hourly train from Stockholm . Make sure to see Uppsala Cathedral and Uppsala Castle, as well as the pre-Viking, prehistoric burial mounds in the old part of the town.

A Skiing Day Trip From Stockholm

Ski resorts in Sweden aren't hard to find, but there are a few that are outstanding and offer a great wintry experience. During the summer, they offer hiking, cycling, and various outdoor sports. Check the Swedish weather before you visit one of these ski resorts in Sweden. It's at least a ​4.5-hour drive though - depending on which one you want to visit - so you might want to start your day trip early in the morning, or plan to stay overnight.

A City Day Trip to Malmö

To be able to fit the city of Malmö into a day trip from Stockholm, you'll have to fly there, which only takes an hour and is quite affordable. (Driving takes six hours.) Just pick 2-3 of the attractions in Malmö for your day there, and you'll be all set for a great day trip.

A City Day Trip to Gothenburg (Göteborg)

A day trip from Stockholm to Göteborg also requires air travel due to the distance involved. But it's easy. Just hop from Stockholm to Göteborg on one of the many 55-minute flights each day.

A Nice Day on the Göta Canal

One of the best day trips from Stockholm if you want to relax a little and enjoy a little boat tour. Many visitors believe that the Gota Canal leads directly from Stockholm to Gothenburg. This is not true - the Göta Canal ends at the town of Mem, almost 150 mi (240 km) south of Stockholm. Drive south on the E4 for just about two hours and you'll be at the beautiful Göta Canal. Bring your camera.

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The very best day trips from Stockholm

Sep 3, 2021 • 8 min read

From island-hopping to learning about Viking culture, here are the best day trips from Stockholm © Igor Grochev / Shutterstock

With country palaces, windswept islets, dynamic towns and Viking culture, the greater Stockholm  area has a wealth of day trips and weekend getaways that are easy to drive to and even easier to reach on public transport . Roads are generally in good repair, and buses and trains are comfortable. Conveniently, SL travel passes allow unlimited travel on all buses and local trains in the area. From Drottningholm Slott to Vaxholm in the Stockholm Archipelago, here are the best day trips from Sweden's capital city. 

Uppsala and Gamla Uppsala

Why go?: Visit the historical and spiritual heart of Sweden

A lively college town that's rich in history, Uppsala is one of Sweden’s oldest cities, dating back to the 3rd century. It's also next-door to one of the most important pre-Viking sites in the country.

The city’s 40,000 students create a youthful buzz that’s easily seen in the sheer number of stylish but unpretentious cafes and bars.  The city’s charm coheres around the meandering river Fyris, which flows through the center, lined by cobblestone pathways and hundreds of bicycles. A squat, pink castle tops the hill above town, with a royal garden stretching out below it. Budding scientists will enjoy the Linnémuseet and adjoining botanical garden, a replica of botanist Carl von Linne’s workspace. History buffs have plenty to absorb, starting with the treasure-filled Museum Gustavianum or the skyline-defining Domkyrka (Cathedral). But the big draw is Gamla (Old) Uppsala, just up the road. 

Gamla Uppsala

A gorgeous cycle ride away, 2.5 miles (4km) north of Uppsala town center, is the fascinating archaeological site of Gamla Uppsala , once a flourishing 6th-century religious center where, allegedly, human sacrifices were made. It’s one of Sweden’s largest and most important ancient burial sites, containing 300 mounds from the 6th to 12th centuries. You can learn more in the adjoining Gamla Uppsala Museum , or wander on your own; there are informative plaques throughout the site.

If you feel like a stroll or a bicycle ride, Eriksleden is a 6km "‘pilgrims path" between the cathedral in Uppsala and the church in Gamla Uppsala. Its namesake, Erik the Holy, was king of Sweden from around 1150 until the Danes beheaded him 10 years later. The story is that his head rolled down the hill, and where it stopped a spring came up. The main trail also provides access to a ridged wilderness hiking area called Tunåsen, with a panoramic viewpoint (follow signs along Eriksleden just south of Gamla Uppsala to "utsiktsleden").

How to get to Uppsala:  SL commuter trains run frequently (every 30 minutes or more) from Stockholm’s Central Station and City Station to Uppsala’s central station in about 40 minutes to an hour. Bus 801 goes frequently from Stockholm Cityterminalen to Uppsala central station via Arlanda Airport in about 45 minutes. Buses for Gamla Uppsala leave from Stora Torget in central Uppsala.

Drottningholm Slott

Why go?: Explore the splendors of a royal palace

If Drottningholm reminds you a little of the Palace of Versaille, you’re not far off: it was designed around the same time, by architectural great Nicodemus Tessin the Elder. Begun in 1662, the Renaissance-inspired main palace is home to the royal family for part of the year. You can roam the grounds on your own, but it's worth taking a one-hour guided tour (30kr; in English three times daily June to August, weekends rest of year). Guides tell entertaining stories about what it was like politically and culturally at the time the palace was being designed and decorated.

Some highlights of the tour include the highly ornamented State Bedchamber of Hedvig Eleonora, the envy of everyone on Pinterest; it’s Sweden’s most expensive baroque interior. The library of Lovisa Ulrika is also a bright and impressive room, complete with most of its original 18th-century fittings (though most of her collection of 2000 books has been moved to the Royal Library in Stockholm for safekeeping).

Both of the Tessins, Nicodemus the Elder as well as the Younger, share credit for the palace's elaborate staircase, with statues and trompe l'oeil embellishments at every turn. And the dedication to design continues outside in the geometric gardens, which are set at an angle for maximum impact and are worth the trip all by themselves.

The royal theater, Slottsteater , was completed in 1766 on the instructions of Queen Lovisa Ulrika. Remarkably untouched from the time of Gustav III’s death (1792) until 1922, it’s now the oldest theater in the world still mostly in its original state. 

A backstage tour of the theater reveals even more about how much people were into the art of illusion in this era. Performances held here in summer still use the original 18th-century machinery to create dramatic effects; the wind machine is impressive. Scenes can be changed in less than seven seconds. Keep a lookout for fake marble, fake curtains and papier-mâché viewing boxes. Even the stage was designed to create illusions regarding size.

At the far end of the royal gardens is Kina Slott , a lavishly decorated Chinese pavilion built by King Adolf Fredrik as a birthday surprise for Queen Lovisa Ulrika in 1753.  The interior was the absolute pinnacle of fashion at the time; it has been restored but remains one of the finest rococo chinoiserie interiors in Europe. On the slope below Kina Slott, the carnivalesque Guards’ Tent was erected in 1781 as quarters for the dragoons of Gustav III, but it’s not really a tent at all (another illusion).

How to get to Drottningholm Slott:  Take the tunnelbana to Brommaplan, then change to the bus to Drottningholm. There's also a well-marked bicycle path from the center of Stockholm to Drottningholm. In summer, regular boat services leave from Stadshuskajen to Drottningholm. 

Why go?: Wander a large Viking settlement

The historic Viking trading center of Birka , on Björkö in Lake Mälaren, makes for an educational and evocative day trip, especially for those interested in Viking lore. A Unesco World Heritage site, the settlement was founded around 760 CE to expand and control trade in the region. There’s not much here today, other than a beautiful Swedish island, but it’s easy to imagine the place bustling with around 700 traders and craftspeople at its peak.

The village site is surrounded by the largest Viking-age cemetery in Scandinavia, with around 3000 graves. Most people were cremated, then mounds of earth were piled over the remains, but some Christian coffins and chambered tombs have been found. There are also excavated remains of a defensive fort and the harbor. 

For those whose imaginations need a little jumpstart, it’s easier to bring the scene to life if you first visit the superb Birka Museum , where exhibits include artifacts from the excavations,  copies of the most impressive objects found, and a scale model of the village as it would have looked in Viking times.

How to get to Birka: Strömma Kanalbolaget runs round-trip cruises to Birka from Stadshusbron in central Stockholm. The trip takes two hours each way; plan on a full day’s outing. Cruise prices include museum admission and a guided tour in English of the settlement’s burial mounds and fortifications. No ferries run during the Midsummer holidays.

Vaxholm and the Stockholm Archipelago

Why go?: Hop between beautiful islands on the Baltic

Stockholmers tend to get misty-eyed when they talk about the archipelago , understandably. This is where the most iconic images of the area come from: little red wooden huts and cabins, deep forests, rocky beaches and low slabs of rock dotted with sunbathing Swedes. The islands are scattered between the city and the Baltic Sea and are a must-visit if you’re in the capital.

There are many thousands of islands in the archipelago, with the count ranging from 14,000 to 100,000 (the general consensus is 24,000), but not all are inhabited or visitable. Some are quite far-flung, but many of the islands with regular ferry service are much closer to the city than many visitors imagine. Several can be seen on a day trip, or you can hop on a round-trip boat to get a look at them from the water. The nominal "capital" of the region is Vaxholm, a good place to start.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Vaxholm , the most obvious being that this is the closest archipelago island to Stockholm, making it a handy introduction to the region. But Vaxholm is more than just a gateway, its cobbled sloping streets, candy-colored wooden houses, excellent restaurants (like the waterfront seafood mainstay Melanders Fisk ) and idiosyncratic shops making it a charming destination on its own.

The oldest part of Vaxholm is Norrhamn, just north of the town hall; here you’ll find a typical 19th-century fisher’s house among other historic buildings. Along the waterfront, take a gander at the eye-catching art nouveau Waxholms Hotell . The island's most prominent sight is the imposing Vaxholm Fortress , originally built in 1544, when King Gustav Vasa ordered its construction to protect the Swedish capital and mainland. It repelled an attack by the Danes in 1612 and the Russians in 1719, among others. There are frequent ferries through the day to the island fort.

How to get to Stockholm Archipelago:  Waxholmsbolaget boats reach most of the visitable islands in the archipelago as part of Stockholm’s public transport network. Ferries leave from Stockholm’s Strömkajen, in front of the Grand Hotel, several times a day depending on the season; it takes around 50 minutes to get to Vaxholm. Buy tickets on board; five- and 30-day travel cards are also available. Most islands in the archipelago have good boat connections, provided you check schedules in advance – although there are worse places in the world to get stranded!

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12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Stockholm

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Karen Hastings Updated Apr 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Swedes love the outdoors, and the picturesque countryside around Stockholm , with islands, woodlands, lakes, and coastal towns, offers plenty of opportunities for adventures and day trips.

Excellent road, rail, and ferry links will take you wherever you want to go, and you'll find many of Sweden's top places to visit just a short hop from the city. Fairy-tale palaces, spectacular waterways, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Viking relics, and medieval villages await.

More than 30,000 islands lie in the sprawling archipelago, and many are close enough for a short (or long) day trip. You can easily take a ferry or sightseeing boat trip from Stockholm to explore them and see all their top attractions.

Plan your Swedish adventures with our list of the top day trips from Stockholm.

1. Drottningholm Palace: The Queen's Castle

2. sigtuna: sweden's first town, 3. visit the ancient university city of uppsala, 4. the viking settlement of birch island (björkö), 5. boat trip across lake malar to historic mariefred, 6. medieval gripsholm castle, 7. modernist enskede woodland cemetery (skogskyrkogården), 8. venture into the archipelago to visit the fortress of vaxholm, 9. the seaside resort of saltsjöbaden, 10. explore lake malar (mälaren), 11. the island of sandhamn, 12. stora fjäderholmen, map of day trips from stockholm.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , stunning Drottningholm Palace (Drottningholms slott) dates from the 17th century and was built for Queen Eleonora. Today the palace is the residence of the Swedish Royal Family.

It lies on the island of Lovö, roughly 11 kilometers west of Stockholm center — a journey of about 45 minutes by boat.

In the beautiful park, with its terraces and avenues of lime trees, are various bronze sculptures brought back from Denmark and Bohemia as trophies of war. In 1774, Drottningholm was bequeathed to Queen Luise Ulrike (sister of Frederick the Great) as a wedding gift, and new wings were added, along with the Chinese Pavilion .

The 18th-century Palace Theatre (Drottningholms Slottsteater) is still frequently used for performances and has stage machinery dating back to the reign of Gustavus III. Scenery and costumes from the period are displayed in the theater museum.

The palace's two large gardens, designed in Baroque and English styles, date from around the same period and are certainly worth seeing.

English-language guided tours are available, as are fun workshops and programs for children. A gift and souvenir shop is located in the visitor center.

Address: 178 93 Drottningholm, Sweden

Famous as Sweden's first town , Sigtuna is a major tourist draw and one of the best places to visit in Sweden for an authentic Swedish travel experience. If you want to see picture-postcard Sweden packed with things to do, this is your destination.

Founded in 980 CE, in the final century of Viking times, Sigtuna sits on the shore of Lake Mälaren , in the country's Uppland region. Today, you can see Sigtuna's history in the ruins, rune stones, medieval churches, and other historic buildings that still stand. At Stora Gatan , the boutiques and craft shops are fun to browse.

An easy way to visit Sigtuna and soak up some of its rich history without the hassle of driving is on the Viking History Half-Day Tour from Stockholm . On this five-hour tour, you have time to explore the quaint streets and shops of Sigtuna and stop at some fascinating historical sites, including an old Viking parliament, a Viking causeway at Täby, and Sweden's largest runic stone in Granby.

Sigtuna is located just 45 minutes north of Stockholm and about 30 minutes from the university town of Uppsala.

Famous as a medieval university city (the university was established in the 1400s), Uppsala boasts an amazing history and draws visitors from across the globe.

It's an easy 70-kilometer drive or train trip northwest of Stockholm and just 25 minutes' drive from the city's Arlanda Airport.

This is Sweden's fourth-largest city; however, that's easy to forget, as the town has a laid-back feel, particularly if you're meandering through the winding streets of the old town, where you will find many of Uppsala's tourist attractions .

Highlights include the magnificent 13th-century cathedral (Domkyrka), the place of burial for Sweden's kings and queens, and the University Museum (Gustavianum). It's also fun to wander around the university grounds and the Botanical Gardens (Botaniska trädgården), then relax in one of the many waterside parks and cafés.

If you'd like to visit Uppsala without the stress of having to find your own way around, consider the Viking History Tour from Stockholm including Sigtuna and Uppsala . This full-day adventure combines an illuminating visit to Viking historical sites like Jarlabanke's bridge and the Viking graveyard at Broby with a stop in Sigtuna and a guided tour of Old Uppsala.

Birka (Vikingastaden) , on Birch Island (Björkö), is only about 30 kilometers west of Stockholm and is another of Sweden's oldest towns to include on your travel itinerary. During Viking times, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was the central hub and the most important trading post in the Mälar Valley.

Established in the 8th century, Birka attracted travelers from near and far, and a wealth of ancient remains have been excavated and studied from Viking settlement sites and burial grounds since the 19th century.

During summer, boat tours with Strömma Kanalbolaget depart from the dock at City Hall. Guided tours are available, and you can dine at the island's restaurant.

A boat trip on Lake Malar (Mälaren) to the picturesque town of Mariefred takes around three hours and is a relaxing and scenic excursion. The town's origin and name come from the monastery of Pax Mariae, which was founded here in 1493.

The town's main landmark is a hillside 17th-century church. Below that is the oldest part of the town, with wooden houses running down to the lake. In the market square, to the north of the church, stands the Town Hall , built in 1784 and now housing the regional tourist center, and on the west side, beyond Stallarholmsvägen , lies the ruined church of Kärnbo .

Gripsholm Castle dominates the landscape. To get here, take a nostalgic voyage aboard the historic steamship S/S Mariefred — the vessel was built around 1900 — from City Hall, Stockholm.

A visit to historic and beautiful Gripsholm Castle (Gripsholms Slott) will immerse you in four hundred years of Swedish history. Located on the shores of Lake Mälaren , this royal castle rises over the pretty town of Mariefred .

Gripsholm is sometimes called Gustav Vasa's castle, as the king built it here in 1537. A must-see is the Swedish State's collection of portraits, featuring famous Swedes from the days of Gustav Vasa to ABBA musician and composer, Benny Andersson. Wander around the beautiful castle grounds and Hjorthagen nature reserve where royal deer graze.

Address: 647 31 Mariefred, Sweden

Created by the famous modernist architects Gunnar Asplund and Sigurd Lewerentz, Enskede Woodland Cemetery (Skogskyrkogården) is a place of stunning beauty set on a boulder ridge cloaked with pine trees.

Reflecting Nordic philosophy on the themes of life, death, and nature, the cemetery covers an area of about 250 acres and is hailed as one of the most significant works of these modernist architects.

Within the grounds lie a number of beautiful chapels and a visitor center. The Woodland Cemetery was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 and is a short trip from Stockholm city center.

English language guided tours and audio guides are available year-round, and a good café is located in the visitor center.

Address: Skogskyrkogården12233 Enskede

The largest museum in Stockholm's archipelago, Vaxholm Castle (Vaxholms fästning) — also known as Vaxholm Fortress Museum — lies on the island of Vaxö , northeast of Stockholm, in the channel used by ships and boats headed to the capital.

The fortress was given its present form in 1839, but immediately after the rebuilding, it lost any military significance since its walls couldn't withstand modern artillery. It now houses a museum with a collection of material from its days as a fortress.

During the 19th century, this was a favorite summer resort with Stockholmers. The little summer houses, with carved decorations and enclosed verandas, are relics of that period.

Address: Kastellet 1, 185 99 Vaxholm, Sweden

Around 20 kilometers southeast of Stockholm — a journey of just 25 minutes by train — on an inlet in the Baggensfjärd , is the small residential town of Saltsjöbaden. This fashionable seaside resort features a yacht marina, grand hotel, golf course, and tennis courts.

For those with enough courage to brave the elements, there's an open-air bathing pool ( Friluftsbad ). This is a favorite day trip destination for Swedes, who like to come here and soak up some sunshine and salty sea air. Top things to do include dining by the water, lounging on the beach, or boating in the bay.

Lake Malar (Mälaren), Sweden's third largest lake, lies immediately west of Stockholm. This 117-kilometer-long waterway extends through the provinces of Västmanland , Södermanland , Uppsala, and Stockholm to the Baltic . Numerous arms and inlets indent the shores. Vessels sail from the Baltic to Stockholm on the Södertälje Canal and Hammarbyleden .

Around the shores — which are partly fertile and partly rocky — lie castles, manor houses, and sprawling estates. More than 1,000 islands dot the lake, and boat services run to many of them (including Björkö ) in summer.

The principal towns on Mälaren are Stockholm , Västerås, and, farther north, Uppsala.

Sandhamn is one of the outer islands of the Stockholm Archipelago, as it meets the open Baltic Sea. On a summer day, it's a busy place, filled with people relaxing over coffee and fika in the many cafés , sunning on its beaches , and browsing in its little shops around the fishing port.

There are walking trails through the forest of windswept pines, and a little museum tells about the island's history. You can get there by ferry from central Stockholm.

Stora Fjäderholmen is the largest of four islands in the Fjäderholmarna group. Several ferry operators provide service from Stockholm several times a day during the summer tourist season, which is typically May through mid-September.

The island is part of the Royal National City Park , a notable tourist destination not only for its natural beauty but also thanks to its bountiful shops selling hand-made crafts and local goods, as well as several good restaurants.

If your ferry arrives at the main ferry port on the north side of the island, you don't have to walk far to find shopping and dining, with several options right on the waterfront or within a short stroll. If you are looking for a quieter place to grab a meal with an ocean view, head to the northwest corner of the island for lunch (and maybe a game of pètanque) at Röda Villan .

If you walk south along the eastern side of the island, you will find a small harbor that's home to smaller local boats. Just beyond this is the workshop of Föreningen Allmogebåtar , a local organization dedicated to preserving the building techniques of traditional Nordic boats, which has several fine examples on display.

Continue south and find even more shops along the waterfront, selling everything from locally made textiles to handcrafted candies. Although the short half-hour ferry ride allows you to visit for only part of a day, and the island is small enough to walk about in just a couple of hours, you may want to plan for more time to just explore and appreciate the scenery.

More on Sweden

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The 5 best day trips from Stockholm

From boat trips to old university towns, there's plenty to discover just a train ride from Stockholm

Stockholm is a fabulous spot for a long weekend break full of genre-bending restaurants, beautiful architecture and world-renowned attractions. But if you’re spending a little longer in the city, there’s a whole load more nearby cities worth discovering – and they’re easily reachable as a day trip. 

The day trip options here range from picturesque university towns to the oldest city in Sweden, home to centuries-old castles, swimming lakes and great food. The best part? All of these spots are reachable by public transport (most less than an hour). From old towns to natural havens, here are the best day trips from Stockholm . 

RECOMMENDED: 🛍️ The best spots for shopping in Stockholm 📍 The best things to do in Stockholm 🍽️ The best restaurants in Stockholm 🏘️ Where to stay in Stockholm

This guide was updated by Annika Hipple ,  a travel writer based in Sweden. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .  

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Best day trips from Stockholm

1.  Uppsala

Just 30 to 40 minutes north of Stockholm by train, Uppsala is home to the oldest university in the Nordics, founded in 1477. More than 40,000 students study in Uppsala every year, adding significantly to the population of Sweden’s fourth-largest city. It’s a walkable, picturesque place with a relaxed yet dynamic vibe and plenty of attractions for a day trip or a longer stay.

Uppsala’s skyline is dominated by the city’s medieval cathedral and 16th-century castle, west of Fyrisån, the river that divides the town. Many of the university’s buildings are located in the same area, including the university administration building, the botanical garden, and the main library, Carolina Rediviva.

Uppsala was an important site long before the arrival of the university, with a history as a religious centre going back more than 1,500 years. Several runestones brought from their original locations in the region stand outside the cathedral, with additional stones in nearby University Park.

Relaxed and unpretentious, Hambergs Fisk serves up fresh, flavorful seafood in a casual, snug riverside restaurant that doubles as a fishmonger’s. Quality wines and an excellent dessert and cheese selection round out the experience. Reservations are recommended.  

Housed in Uppsala’s old train station, Stationen is a three-part venue, housing a brasserie (Paris), a café (Rome), and a bar (London). Specialising in gin, London also serves pub food, weekend afternoon tea, champagne and other drinks. In the evenings there’s sometimes a DJ or live music. Stationen also has a large outdoor seating area during summer.

The oldest university building in Sweden, Gustavianum (temporarily closed) is now a fascinating museum housing archaeological artefacts from the Viking era and ancient Egypt, as well as art, ancient coins, and other objects relating to the university’s history and the history of science. At the top of the building is the Anatomical Theatre, built in the 17th century and formerly used for public dissections. Closed Mondays.

In the heart of historic Uppsala, Hotel Villa Anna is a small boutique hotel with 11 rooms, housed in a lovely 19th-century building close to Uppsala Cathedral, Museum Gustavianum, and other attractions. The breakfast buffet has hot and cold items, with many ingredients sourced from local farms. 

If you only do one thing...

Visit Uppsala Cathedral. As long as it is tall, this red-brick structure with soaring spires is the largest church in Scandinavia. Built between 1270 and 1435, it’s the seat of Sweden’s only archbishop, the head of the national church. Numerous important historical figures are buried here, including Sweden’s most famous king, Gustav Vasa, and his second son, Johan III, as well as Carl Linnaeus and other notable figures. The cathedral also houses the shrine to Sweden’s patron saint, Erik IX.

2.  Sigtuna

Founded around the year 980, Sigtuna is Sweden’s oldest town. Rich in history and archaeological treasures, it’s a picturesque place on an arm of Lake Mälaren, Sweden’s third-largest lake. Just an hour north-west of Stockholm by commuter rail and bus, it’s also reachable by Strömma excursion boat during the peak summer season.

Sigtuna’s attractions are diverse, ranging from runestones and medieval church ruins to a quaint pedestrian downtown and a lovely lakeside promenade. If you’re interested in Swedish history, it’s a place not to be missed, but either way, it’s a charming destination for an escape from the Stockholm bustle.

One of Sigtuna’s most famous institutions, the beloved Tant Bruns Kaffestuga occupies an old wooden house from the 17th century, believed to be the oldest surviving building in the town. The café itself has a long tradition of serving freshly baked bread, pastries and sandwiches, with outdoor seating in the garden. 

Open every night except Mondays, Båthuset Krog och Bar is a floating restaurant and bar near Sigtuna harbour. The drinks menu includes an extensive wine list and a decent selection of beers, as well as cider and non-alcoholic options. The water views are gorgeous from the inside, but in the summer you can get even closer to the lake with outdoor seating on the deck. 

At the main square, off Stora Gatan, check out Sigtuna’s adorably tiny town hall, which dates back to 1744. The interior is open to visitors only from June through August, but it’s worth a look from the outside at any time of year. According to tradition, the key to the town hall used to hang on a hook behind one of the window shutters, and locals who’d been out a bit too late – or perhaps wanted to sober up a bit – would often let themselves in and spend the night rather than heading home immediately.

1909 Sigtuna Stadshotell has one of the best locations in town – in the heart of the historic centre and just a few steps from Lake Mälaren. Decorated in classical Scandinavian style, it’s Sweden’s smallest five-star hotel, with just 26 rooms.

If you only do one thing... 

Don’t miss Sigtuna’s medieval churches. In the downtown area, you’ll find three evocative ruined grey-stone churches built in the early 12th century. The most impressive of the three, St Olof and St Per (Peter), are well preserved, while the remains of St. Lars (Lawrence) are limited to a single tower. Next to St Olof is a very different type of medieval church, St Mary’s, built a century or so later and the first church in the region to be built in brick. Combining elements of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, it’s still in use after more than 750 years.

3.  Sandhamn

Sandhamn, on the outermost edge of the Stockholm Archipelago, began as an outpost for customs agents and ship captains in the late 17th century. It gradually evolved into a permanent settlement and has been a gathering spot for the sailing and yachting community for nearly a century.

About 120 people currently live on the island, but in the summer, the population swells with seasonal residents and short-term visitors, and a lively party atmosphere takes over. Visit during the high season if your aim is to experience the island at its most hopping. If you prefer peace and quiet, opt for the shoulder seasons, when the summer crowds have departed, and the pace slows down substantially.

Sandhamn is an hour by passenger ferry from Stavsnäs, reachable by direct bus from downtown Stockholm (one hour). From April to early November, boats run directly from the city centre (two hours). There is also a summer excursion boat that takes a slower route through the scenic Strömma Canal (three hours). 

The oldest restaurant on the island, Sandhamns Värdshus has a long history – well over 300 years – of serving locals and visitors alike. Just by the main harbour, the inn has a restaurant with large windows on the upper level, a more casual pub on the lower level, and outdoor dining during summer. Daily specials and à la carte classics are served in all seasons, though hours vary, so check the website if visiting at a less busy time.

You won’t find much in the way of watering holes in Sandhamn during the offseason, but if you’re visiting between May and September, pop into laidback Dykarbaren for drinks and/or a meal with a view of the harbour. There’s seating by the bar and upstairs, as well as an outdoor area when the weather permits. Opening hours vary, so check the website.

Sandhamn is known for its white-sand beaches, the largest of which is at Trouville, a 20-minute walk from the harbour. In warm weather, it is a great spot for a swim. The water stays shallow quite far out, making it a good place for families with children. There are also smaller beaches at Fläskberget, on the western edge of the village, and Skärkarlshamn, five minutes’ walk from the harbour, past the yacht club. The island interior, which is less than two miles long and just under a mile wide, is covered in pine forest. Several paths wind their way through it.

Although Sandhamn has a couple of conference hotels open for individual bookings during summer, for accommodation at any time of year, your best bet is Missionshuset, a bed-and-breakfast run by Sandhamns Värdshus. It has five rooms with a shared bath and a freestanding cottage with en-suite facilities. In autumn and winter, additional rooms are available in a separate house in the village, along with a private apartment for up to four guests.

Explore the village away from the harbour. Sandhamn is completely car-free, making it a delight to wander its narrow lanes with typical archipelago houses made of wood, many of them painted the traditional dark red with white trim. From the high point west of the harbour, there are good views of the whole village and the sea.

4.  Vaxholm

Vaxholm began as a defensive outpost of Stockholm in the 16th century but received its town charter in 1647. During the 19th century, it became a popular weekend and summer getaway for Stockholmers, which it remains today. Known as the capital of the archipelago, Vaxholm is easily accessible from the city by both road and passenger ferry.

Although Vaxholm has few large-scale sights, it’s an enchanting place to walk around, with small streets lined with pastel-hued houses with decorative touches and quaint fences. Most date from the turn of the 20th century. The town centre has shops selling homeware, baked goods, sweets, clothing and groceries.

Open year-round, Hamnkrogen is perched on the waterfront opposite the guest harbour. In addition to daily lunch specials, the restaurant serves a regular menu that includes fish, meat, burgers and vegan options. In summer, Hamnkrogen also has an outdoor restaurant, Kobben, and a popular champagne bar right on the pier with light food items such as smoked shrimp and local cheeses.

During the off-season, your best bet for a drink is one of the few year-round restaurants, such as the dining room at Waxholms Hotell on the pier. In summer, the hotel opens up Lilla Strand, a bistro bar with indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a good spot to enjoy a drink while watching the passenger ferries and sailboats come and go.

Vaxholm’s main tourist attraction is the imposing fortress just offshore. Known as Kastellet, it is a mid-19th-century structure that replaced an earlier fortress built during the mid-16th century to protect Stockholm from invasion. It’s well worth visiting and easily reachable by a short cable ferry from Vaxholm. Climb the 134 steps for outstanding views, explore the cellar vaults once used to house criminals and political prisoners, and visit the Fortress Museum tracing 500 years of military defence of the archipelago. 

For an unusual night, book a room in the former artillery barracks at the fortress, now converted into guestrooms of the Kastellet Bed & Breakfast, many with sea views. Bathroom facilities are shared, and breakfast is included. If you book your room through the inn’s website, the cable ferry (four times per hour, May through September) is included. Regular ferries (not included) run all year, and taxi boats are also available.

Arrive by boat. A cruise from Stockholm to Vaxholm is the best way to get a sense of the archipelago and Vaxholm’s place within it. Strömma’s Cinderella boats operate from Strandvägen in Stockholm from mid-April to early November and take 50 minutes. Waxholmsbolaget’s passenger ferries run from Strömkajen near Grand Hotel and take just under an hour and a half.

5.  Mariefred

A small town on the southern shore of Lake Mälaren, Mariefred is easily reachable from Stockholm if you catch a train to Läggesta, followed by a short bus ride. During summer, a scenic alternative is to travel between Stockholm and Mariefred by sea aboard the historic steamship SS Mariefred, which has been plying this route since 1903.

Mariefred is best known for Gripsholm Castle, one of Sweden’s most imposing Renaissance structures, built by King Gustav Vasa in 1537 on the site of an earlier 14th-century castle. The town itself is charming, with many well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, plus excellent shops and cafés. It’s a relaxing place to spend the day, particularly in summer, when the town bustles with life and restaurants spill onto the pavements and pier.

Midway between Gripsholm Castle and downtown Mariefred lies Slottspaviljongen (the Castle Pavilion). With large windows and both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a pleasant venue set in a park close to the waterfront and the railway station. Order at the counter, grab a table and wait for your food to arrive. Check the website for current opening hours, as they may be reduced during slower periods of the year.

If you’re looking for bars, Mariefred is not the place for you. In this small town, you’ll either have to order alcoholic drinks at a restaurant or pick something up at Systembolaget, the state liquor store on Storgatan. But why not opt for a coffee instead? You’re sure to find something tasty at Två Goda Ting (Two Delicious Things), a café/shop specialising in coffee and chocolate that also sells tea, liquorice and other moreish goods. 

Take a steam train ride through the countryside: Mariefred’s distinctive yellow railway station is the starting point for rides on a steam train with engines and carriages dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From May to September, the train travels between Mariefred, Läggesta station and Taxinge-Näsby. Mariefred station has an exhibit on railway history.

Billed as Sweden’s oldest inn, Gripsholms Värdshus dates from 1609 and occupies the site of a former Carthusian monastery, Pax Mariae, that gave Mariefred its name (Mary’s Peace). Ideally located along the waterfront opposite Gripsholm Castle, the inn has a variety of traditionally decorated rooms, as well as a restaurant, bar and spa.

If you only do one thing...  

Visit Gripsholm Castle. Founded by King Gustav Vasa in 1537, the castle’s located on a small peninsula opposite downtown Mariefred, a short walk from the town centre. As you approach the main gate, don’t miss the runestones along the path, brought to Gripsholm from their original locations nearby. Highlights inside the castle include the Swedish national portrait collection, along with Duke Karl’s chamber from the 16th century and Gustav III’s theatre from the 18th.

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Top Sweden Road Trips: Ideas for Scenic Swedish Drives

Rolling green countryside, sandy beaches and red cottages await you on a Sweden road trip. Enjoy the freedom of driving at your own pace and stopping at charming villages or pretty lakes en route to your next destination.

So which are the top itineraries for self-drive tours of Sweden ? We asked our Scandinavia travel experts, and they’ve picked out the following routes as the very best scenic drives in Sweden.

You'll also find some useful tips on driving in Sweden at the end of this article to help you prepare for your road trip.

• Explore these Sweden self-drive tour packages  and start planning your self-drive adventure

Top driving itineraries in Sweden:

1. the express sweden route – 7-day driving tour, 2. the classic sweden route – 10-day driving tour, 3. the complete sweden route – 14-day driving tour, 4. the scandinavian route – 10-day driving tour, tips for driving in sweden.

One of the best ways you can spend a week in Sweden is on this express road trip. In 7 days you’ll get the perfect mix of culture and nature, with time to take in Swedish castles, museums and lakes.

What’s the drive like?

Picture pretty scenic views that showcase the Swedish countryside, where green fields are dotted with traditional red houses. The total distance of this route is 937 kilometres (581 miles), with each driving stretch ranging between 1 to 4 hours, without stops.

Day 1 – Stockholm

You start and end this self-drive tour in the Swedish capital, Stockholm . Soak up the attractive architecture of Gamla Stan (the Old Town) where you’ll find the Royal Palace, Parliament building and medieval houses.

Day 2 – Stockholm to Örebro

From the capital hop in your rental car and drive west towards Örebro. Visit historical sites on the way, such as the castles of Gripsholm and Örebro. There are also the interesting open-air museums of Rademachersmedjorna and Wadköping.

Day 3 – Örebro to Sunne

Take the scenic route to Sunne, enjoying views of forests, lakes and rivers. Make a stop in Karlstad, endearingly known as the “city of sunshine”, which rests on the banks of a river delta. You could also take a break in Kristinehamn for a walk in the woods or along the lakefront.

• Related: What is Sweden known for?

Day 4 – Sunne to Dalarna

Discover the sculptures and gardens at Rottneros Park or visit Mårbacka, the former home of Nobel Prize winner Selma Lagerlöf . Next continue north to the region of Dalarna, which is brimming with picturesque views of forests and lakes, including Siljan. It’s no wonder why many Swedes have second homes here.

Day 5 – Dalarna

Enjoy a full day exploring Lake Siljan and the surrounding area in Dalarna. You might want to see how the traditional Dala horse is made at the Grannas Workshop in Nusnäs. Or go fishing, horse riding and swimming in Rättvik. Alternatively, look for trolls in the nature reserve around Styggforsen waterfall.

Day 6 – Lake Siljan to Stockholm

Return to Stockholm today and stop at interesting sights along the way. Head to the area around Falun to visit the Dössberget Heritage Museum and Dalarna Museum. Then how about a photo with the biggest Dala horse in Sweden? Head to Avesta where you’ll see this huge 13-metre (43-foot) tall carving.

Day 7 – Departure

Enjoy more of Stockholm today before your journey home.

• Choose an express Swedish road trip from these Sweden self-drive tour packages
• Related: 15 things to see and do in Stockholm

Experience the idyllic landscapes and exciting  cities of southern Sweden on this 10-day road trip. Not only will you get to explore the lush countryside, but also beautiful coastline, islands and lakes.

This is one of the most popular scenic drives in Sweden thanks to the charming views you’ll get from your car window. You’ll cover a total distance of 1,719 kilometres (1,067 miles), with each leg of the journey ranging between 1 to 4 hours, without stops.

You start and end this self-drive tour in the Swedish capital, Stockholm. Soak up the attractive architecture of Gamla Stan (the Old Town) where you’ll find the Royal Palace, Parliament building and medieval houses.

Day 2 – Stockholm to Vadstena

Hit the road and drive southwest towards Lake Vättern. En route you can make stops at Tullgarn Palace park, Trosa and Linköping. Explore the “Old Linköping” open-air museum for an insight into life in Sweden 100 years ago. Continue to Vadstena on the shores of the lake and visit the Renaissance castle here.

Day 3 – Vadstena to Kalmar

Continue driving beside Lake Vättern on your journey to the south coast. On the way there are plenty of opportunities to stop at charming towns and villages. In Gränna, where the striped candy cane was invented, you could pick one up from one of the bakeries.

Once you reach the region of Småland, you’ll find yourself in the Kingdom of Crystal (“Glasriket”), an area renowned for traditional glassmaking. Finish the day in Kalmar where you can visit the 800-year-old castle.

Day 4 – Kalmar and Öland

From the town of Kalmar, cross the bridge to explore Öland. Spend the day enjoying the best of this pretty island, the second largest in Sweden. Discover sandy beaches, the UNESCO-listed landscape of Stora Alvaret, Borgholm Castle and Solliden Palace.

Day 5 – Kalmar to Ystad

Drive to the southernmost part of Sweden today, taking the coastal route along Blekinge. You’ll arrive in the beautiful region of Skåne which is beloved for its rich culture. Visit the megalithic site of Ales Stenar, admire medieval architecture, and visit a quaint café or farm shop in Österlen.

• Related: Why Scandinavia is perfect for solo travel

Day 6 – Ystad to Halmstad

Enjoy the charms of Ystad, a place of colourful half-timbered houses, before heading on to Halmstad. En route explore Smygehuk, the southernmost point in Sweden, and the Falsterbro peninsula with its white sands. In Halmstad admire Picasso’s Head of a Woman sculpture or discover beaches and nature reserves.

Day 7 – Halmstad to Gothenburg

Continue your drive up Sweden’s west coast to Gothenburg, acclaimed for being the most sustainable city in the world. Borrow a bicycle to explore Gothenburg on two wheels or travel down the canals by vintage boat. Visit the Gothenburg Museum of Art , Feskekôrka fish market and Liseberg amusement park.

Day 8 – Gothenburg to Örebro

Head eastwards as you make your way to Örebro, home to a 14th-century castle, the open-air Wadköping Museum, and densely forested Slottsparken Palace Park. Before you arrive in Örebro, you might like to stop by Lake Vänern, the largest in Sweden. Or check out the Göta Canal, a feat of engineering.

Day 9 – Örebro to Stockholm

Return to Stockholm but first enjoy some last stops on your journey back. Discover the open-air museum of Rademachersmedjorna as well as castles and manor houses in the region surrounding Eskilstuna town. Don’t miss Gripsholm Castle, with its pretty grounds and 400-year history.

Day 10 – Departure

See more of Stockholm today before your journey home.

• Discover these Sweden holiday packages

This complete Sweden road trip has it all: pristine coastline, historical sites, trendy cities and picturesque countryside. If you want to experience quintessential Sweden, this 14-day driving route won’t let you down.

Expect a varied drive with views of the sea, farmland, lakes and forests. You’ll cover a total distance of 2,270 kilometres (1,394 miles), with each leg of the journey ranging between 1 to 4 hours, without stops.

Drive to the southernmost part of Sweden today, taking the coastal route along Blekinge. You’ll arrive in the beautiful region of Skåne which is beloved for its rich culture. Visit pretty Simrishamn and the fortress of Glimmingehus before arriving in Ystad, a place of colourful half-timbered houses.

Day 6 – Ystad

Spend a full day getting to know Skåne. Try some local produce at the fishing village of Kåseberga, or relax on the beach at Sandhammaren. Don’t miss the megalithic site of Ales Stenar with the Baltic Sea as a backdrop. When you’re hungry, pop into a quaint café or farm shop in Österlen.

Day 7 – Ystad to Halmstad

En route to Halmstad explore Smygehuk, the southernmost point in Sweden, and the Falsterbro peninsula with its white sands. Make a detour to Söderåsens National Park to hike amid the forests, cliffs and rivers. In Halmstad admire Picasso’s Head of a Woman sculpture or discover beaches and nature reserves.

• Related: Summer in Sweden – what to do and where to go

Day 8 – Halmstad to Gothenburg

Continue your drive up Sweden’s west coast to Gothenburg, acclaimed for being the most sustainable city in the world. On the way make a pitstop in Vargerg to see the fortress and have a bite to eat in the city square.

Day 9 – Gothenburg

Enjoy a full day in Sweden’s second city. Borrow a bicycle to explore Gothenburg on two wheels or travel down the canals by vintage boat. Visit the Gothenburg Museum of Art, Feskekôrka fish market and Liseberg amusement park.

Day 10 – Gothenburg to Sunne

Leave the west coast behind as you make for Sunne. Take a break at Lake Vänern, the largest in Sweden. Or check out the Göta Canal, a feat of engineering. Drive through lovely green forests before arriving in Sunne.

Day 11 – Sunne to Dalarna

Day 12 – Dalarna

Enjoy a full day exploring the Lake Siljan area in Dalarna. You might want to see how the traditional Dala horse is made at the Grannas Workshop in Nusnäs. Or go fishing, horse riding and swimming in Rättvik. Alternatively, look for trolls in the nature reserve around Styggforsen waterfall.

Day 13 – Dalarna to Stockholm

Day 14 – Departure

• Opt for a complete Swedish road trip – choose from these Sweden self-drive tour packages

If you can’t choose between visiting Sweden, Norway or Denmark, then don't worry because you don’t have to.

You could explore all three countries on a Scandinavian self-drive tour . You'll see the capital cities of Stockholm, Oslo and Copenhagen, as well as the Swedish and Norwegian countryside.

This 10-day drive showcases a little bit of Sweden, Denmark and Norway in one go. Plus, you’ll get breaks from driving, including an overnight cruise from Copenhagen to Oslo. The total distance is 1,352 kilometres (839 miles), with each leg of the journey ranging between 2 to 5 hours, without stops.

Day 2 – Stockholm to Kalmar

Hit the road and drive southwest towards Kalmar. Once you reach the region of Småland, you’ll find yourself in the Kingdom of Crystal (“Glasriket”), an area renowned for traditional glassmaking. In Kalmar itself you can visit the 800-year-old castle, or cross the bridge to explore Öland island.

• Related: Ultimate Scandinavia guide – the best times and places to visit

Day 3 – Kalmar to Ystad

Drive to the southernmost part of Sweden today, arriving in the beautiful region of Skåne which is beloved for its rich culture. Visit pretty Simrishamn, the megalithic site of Ales Stenar, and the fortress of Glimmingehus before arriving in Ystad, a place of colourful half-timbered houses.

Day 4 – Ystad to Copenhagen

En route to Denmark explore Smygehuk, the southernmost point in Sweden, and the Falsterbro peninsula with its white sands. Then drive over the Öresund Bridge to reach Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. Walk around the colourful harbour of Nyhavn and enjoy the fun and games at Tivoli Gardens amusement park.

Day 5 – Copenhagen to Oslo

Soak up the many delights of Copenhagen today, such as Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace, and the Little Mermaid statue. A great way to see the Danish capital is by taking a boat tour from the harbour. Later in the day, board an overnight ferry to Oslo.

Day 6 – Oslo

Enjoy the view of Oslo from the cruise boat as you arrive in the capital of Norway. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the city’s gems. Discover the Royal Palace , Akershus Fortress , Oslo Opera House, and the Aker Brygge area by the harbour.

Day 7 – Oslo

Explore outside the city to see some of Oslo's interesting sights, including the Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Holmenkollen ski jump. There are also fantastic museums in the capital, like the Munch Museum and Fram Polar Ship Museum .

Day 8 – Oslo to Örebro

Leave Norway and make your way back to Sweden, driving across the border towards Örebro. Make a stop in Karlstad, endearingly known as the “city of sunshine”, which rests on the banks of a river delta. You could also take a break in Kristinehamn for a walk in the woods or along the lakefront.

Visit Örebro Castle then make some more stops on your return to Stockholm. Discover the open-air museum of Rademachersmedjorna as well as castles and manor houses in the region surrounding Eskilstuna town. Don’t miss Gripsholm Castle, with its pretty grounds and 400-year history.

• See more road trip options for Sweden, Norway and Denmark with these Scandinavia self-drive packages
• Related: 10 Cool facts about Denmark

Make sure to read these driving tips before you visit Sweden on a road trip.

If you need to rent a car in Sweden, remember to sign up with insurance so you know you’re covered. When you book a Nordic Visitor self-drive tour, Basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Basic Theft Protection (TP), unlimited mileage and authorisation for 1 driver are already included in the package price.

Additionally, we only work with reputable car rental agencies that can guarantee high-quality vehicles.

Speed limits in Sweden

The maximum speed limit in Sweden is 110 kilometres (68 miles) per hour. On some highways this increases to 120 kilometres (74 miles) per hour.

When you’re driving through residential areas, the speed limit is usually a minimum of 20 or 30 kilometres (12 or 18 miles) per hour. Other types of roads and built-up areas require different speed limits – between 40 and 100 kilometres (24 and 62 miles) per hour – so look out for the signs.

Note that speeding is monitored with cameras in Sweden, so there’s all the more reason to stick to the speed limit at all times.

Alcohol limit

As the maximum blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.02%, it is advised that you don’t drink anything at all. Anyone caught exceeding the alcohol limit will be  heavily fined and can face imprisonment.

Driving license

You don’t need a Swedish driver’s license to enjoy a road trip in Sweden. That said, you must have a full driving license, passport and proof of insurance with you when driving.

Driving requirements

It’s important to know that you must drive with your headlights turned on at all times, even in the summer and during the day. You also need to carry a warning triangle in case of a breakdown, but the rental car agency will provide this.

Swedish roads

The roads in Sweden are generally in really good condition, making your self-drive experience that much smoother. That said, we don’t recommend driving during Sweden’s winter, as the presence of ice and snow can make it challenging.

It’s also good to know that you should look out for wild animals, particularly if driving at night in rural areas.

Which of these Sweden road trips would you like to experience? Our Stockholm-based travel experts will use their expertise to organise your tour for you. They can also customise your itinerary if you’d like to spend extra nights in a particular destination or make any other adjustments.

Plus, when you book a Sweden self-drive tour with Nordic Visitor, accommodation, rental car and insurance are included in the price of your package. You also get breakfast each morning, a hand-noted map and access to our 24/7 support helpline.

Get in touch with our Sweden travel consultants to start planning your road trip.

Wanderlust has taken Emma across much of the world, but it was Scotland that she made her adopted home. Aside from enjoying countryside walks, campervan weekends and gigs in Glasgow, you’ll often find her writing about European travel and plotting her next trip.

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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Home » Travel Guides » Sweden » 15 Best Day Trips from Stockholm

15 Best Day Trips from Stockholm

A city of contrasts, Stockholm manages to merge the old with the new with relative ease.

Unlike many cities in the world Stockholm sprawls; sprawls across 14 islands in fact.

Stockholm is one of the most environmentally conscious cities on earth and is famed for its innovative use of technology in a bid to become the most sustainable city on earth.

Stockholm is ahead of the game in other ways too, on the forefront of music trends, fashion, innovation and design of pretty much all varieties.

Once you have taken time to cycle around the incredibly clean streets, sipped coffee at the Uber-trendy coffee shops it is time to starting looking a Sweden as a whole.

Let’s explore the best day trips from Stockholm :

1. Broby Bro

Sweden is a country steeped in Viking and Iron Age history and one of the best ways to witness relics from these eras is to head to Broby bro.

This graveyard is over 1000 years old and the stories of those who are buried here live on today.

Broby bro is best experienced with a tour guide for they can bring to life the tales of the Viking heroes that once ruled the land.

There are dozens of these stories to learn about but none so interesting as ‘Estrid’ whose skeleton was found in the Christian section of the Broby bro graveyard in 1995.

2. Jarlabanke Runestones

A visit to the Jarlabanke Runestones and Jarlabanke Causeway is a great way to get to grips with Viking history and how their rule shaped the lay of the land forever.

Earl Jarlabanke is one of the most infamous Viking rulers who many believed abused his power for his own gain.

He did however create the Jarlabanke Causeway that runs its 116m course in Täby, which Jarlabanke once owned all of.

The Vikings were incredible civil engineers and in a visit to the Jarlabanke Runestones you can learn about how their bridge building and road construction changed the world in which they lived.

The tiny town of Sigtuna is home to just 8000 people and can be found sitting to the north of Stockholm.

This quaint and charming Swedish town is steeped in history and is home to some beautiful olde-world townhouses.

Sigtuna town looks out over Sigtuna Bay which is tranquil and incredibly picturesque, if a little icy in winter.

Highlights of a visit to Sigtuna include a walk around the ruins of St Olof Church.

When the winter snows settle on the tumble down medieval church is starts to look almost fairytale like.

Aside from taking time to stroll through Sigtuna winding streets you can visit Steninge Palace and Rosberg Palace too if you are particularly interested in architecture.

4. Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago is one of the most impressive landscapes in all of Europe, home to some 24,000 islands that sit in the Baltic Sea.

Typically travellers associate island hopping with South East Asia, or the Caribbean, but in a short one tour trip from Stockholm city centre you can be in an island paradise, just a comparatively chilly one.

What makes the Stockholm Archipelago so incredible is that many of the islands are uninhabited and are true wildernesses.

Naturally, the Stockholm Archipelago is best experienced by boat.

You can kick back and relax or there are some tour providers who let you take the helm.

5. Natural Ice Fields

There are dozens of natural ice fields that surround Stockholm city centre and you can take your pick as to where you want to explore.

No need to have ever skated before as the guys and girls who run tours of the ice fields are fantastic teachers and by the end of the day you will feel as if you are ready to trail for the Winter Olympics…maybe.

The best season for ice skating in the Stockholm area of Sweden is between December and March.

This is a great day out for everyone; solo travellers, couples, families and big groups.

You will skate through some mesmerising landscapes, you’ll never want to skate in a rink again.

6. Sörmlandsleden

One of the most loved hiking routes in all of Sweden is Sörmlandsleden.

The trail starts about a 40-minute drive from Stockholm city centre and runs for 1000km through some of Sweden’s most pristine pine forest.

Obviously, on a day trip you cannot cover the full 1000Km but nevertheless you can get a taste for this phenomenal landscape.

You will pass through dense pine forest, walk alongside perfectly still lakes and out on to rocky plateaus.

Many people choose to hike up to Sweden’s highest peak, Kebnekaise, stop for a picnic lunch and admire the views before returning to the car to drive back to Stockholm.

7. Drottningholm Palace

Drottningholm Palace is the private residence of the Swedish royal family and is built on the island of Lovön.

Built in the 16th-Century Drottningholm Palace is a piece of history perfectly preserved in time.

Although each generation of the Swedish royal family has left their mark on the palace the 16-century facade remains the same.

In the centuries to come Swedish royals added a palace theatre and even a Chinese Pavilion.

A walk around the palace’s baroque garden is a real treat, especially when in full bloom in the spring months.

You can take a tour of the public rooms and the gardens too.

The complex is open throughout the year.

It is said that Birka was Sweden’s first city and it can be found on the island of Björkö or ‘Birch Island’. As one of the most significant trading spots of Vikings this is a city rich in history and cultural heritage.

In fact, Birka is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The highlight of a visit to Birka is taking a tour of the Viking Village.

Step inside traditional Viking homes, learn about daily life in Viking times and learn about how the black soil of Birka helped the city to thrive.

Once you have finished in the village head to Restaurant Särimner for a hearty lunch overlooking the sea.

Gävle is something of a hidden gem.

This charming town sits 100 miles to the north of Stockholm and is famed for being the home of Sweden’s best chocolate.

Many people enjoy taking a visit to the Swedish Railway Museums to see the locomotives of yesteryear, others prefer to take a gentle stroll around Boulogne Skogen City Park which is especially beautiful in autumn.

If you fancy something a little bit different book a session at the Dome Adrenaline Zone.

This 6000 sq.m playground has a climbing wall, ninja warrior course and super springy trampolines.

Church Street Saloon is a much loved restaurant in Gävle, and Matildas serves up a wonderful array of traditional Swedish dishes with a modern twist.

10. Helsinki

One thing that is particularly great about Europe is that all major cities are incredibly well connected, either by road, railway or by air.

Flights from Stockholm to Helsinki fly multiple times daily meaning you can have a flying visit to the Finnish capital should you so wish.

Take a wander down Mannerheimintie and pop into the National Museum.

Once you have toured the impressive museums head down to Parliament House or perhaps Kiasma, the city’s best loved art gallery.

The most iconic landmark in Helsinki is the rusty-red Uspenski Cathedral.

Standing proudly overlooking Helsinki Harbour do not miss this amazing architectural gem before you fly back to Stockholm in the late evening.

Malmö is a majestic city that can be found in the south of Sweden.

With cobbled streets and vast city squares there is so much to explore in the course of a day trip to Malmö.

The first port of call should be Malmö Castles that was built by the Danes in the 16th Century.

Speaking of Denmark, be sure to take moment to gaze in awe at the magnificent Øresund Bridge which connects Sweden to Denmark.

Kungsparken is an exquisite inner city park that can found just west of Malmö Town Hall.

Taking a little rowing boat out on the river in Kungsparken is one of the most romantic things you can do in all of Sweden.

12. Gripsholm Castle

Picture a castle from a fairytale, chances are what you are imagining looks a little like Gripsholm Castle.

This magical castle can be found in the small but perfectly formed town of Mariefred near Lake Mälaren.

This is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Sweden and it is not hard to understand why.

Gripsholm Castle is not only incredibly photogenic but is home to a truly unique collection of Swedish artworks and furniture that date back over 400 years.

Once you have toured the castle’s interiors be sure to take an hour or so to roam the castle grounds.

Stopping by the deer paddock to take a moment to observe these chilled out creatures is a treat.

13. Lake Mälaren

Lake Mälaren, or Lake Malar, is one of Sweden’s natural jewels.

Covering 1,140 km² Lake Mälaren is the third-largest freshwater lake in the country.

During a day visit to Lake Mälaren you can drop by Gripsholm Castle or even Drottningholm Palace for a flying visit but many people prefer to head straight to Långholmen.

This is a sandy beach area that sits on the shores of Lake Mälaren and is the perfect place to relax and unwind, especially in summer.

If you prefer to be more active on your holidays you are more than welcome to be.

There are dozens of cycling and hiking trails that run through the woodlands that border Lake Mälaren.

14. Gotland

Hiding out in the Baltic Sea is the island of Gotland.

The coastline of this island is other-worldly and has to be seen to be believed.

Arches, stacks, and stumps are scattered across the beaches and form stunning silhouettes at sunrise and sunset.

The Gotland Museum is a must-visit and provides fascinating insights into local history and the region’s rich culture.

A visit to the Lummelunda Cave is a great way to spend an afternoon and can be accessed by a short boat ride.

The city of Visby that sits on Gotland is one of the best preserved medieval cities in the world.

Visby is another of Sweden’s gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

15. Uppsala

Uppsala is a charming Swedish university city that has a lot going on.

Being a university city means that there is no short supply of hipster coffee shops and bustling bars.

Marrying the old with the new, much like Stockholm in that sense, Uppsala is a versatile city that is a joy to explore.

There is a lot of history to explore in Uppsala, from the Carolina Rediviva library to Skokloster Castle and Uppsala Cathedral.

If you have a hankering for seafood head to Hambergs Fisk, should you want to hang with the cool kids get yourself to Cafe Årumment and settle down with a latte or two.

15 Best Day Trips from Stockholm:

• Jarlabanke Runestones
• Stockholm Archipelago
• Natural Ice Fields
• Sörmlandsleden
• Drottningholm Palace
• Gripsholm Castle
• Lake Mälaren

Are these the 15 BEST DAY TRIPS from Stockholm?

But with an archipelago of islands nearby, charming towns just a train ride away, and a surrounding countryside steeped in ancient history, there’s more to see outside of the city.

So we’ve put together a handy list of the best day trips from Stockholm, easy to reach destinations on the train, a few romantic day trips just for couples, plus several things to do with kids.

You’ll see that there really is something for everyone to do around this cool capital city.

Editor’s note – Check out our 15 best hostels in Stockholm and find a hostel that suits your style!

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Stockholm

• Day Trips from Stockholm by Train –  Uppsala
• Romantic Day Trips from Stockholm for Couples –  Sigtuna Village Oldest Town in Sweden Guided Tour
• Best Day Trips from Stockholm with Kids –  Stora Holmen

Best Places to Stay in Stockholm

Bunk up in one of the Swedish capital’s slick and stylish places to stay. After spending busy days exploring the city and making adventurous day trips, you’re going to want to return to a comfortable room and get a good night’s rest. Make sure you choose the best accommodation for your travel style.

• Best Hostel in Stockholm •

Skanstulls hostel.

• Great all-rounder of a hostel

Quirky and colourful throughout, this is the best hostel in Stockholm for so many reasons. There’s a good social area, a subway right across the street, loads of eateries and shops on the doorstep, they allow early check-in, it’s clean, it’s friendly… What more do you want?!

• Best Budget Hotel in Stockholm •

Wasa park hotel.

• Right near public transport

Unfussy but homely and cosy, this budget hotel in Stockholm is a great place to base yourself if you’re on a trip to the Swedish capital on a shoestring. It’s a guesthouse with kitsch decor, friendly staff and a great location – there’s even a free breakfast!

• Best Luxury Hotel in Stockholm •

• All about style

True to its name, this top luxury hotel in Stockholm is set in a bank building dating back from 1910. If that isn’t enough to whet your appetite, then how about the elegant restaurant, multiple bars, or the totally stylish decor throughout? Fans of design will absolutely love this historic, elegant place.

#1 Best Day Trip from Stockholm – Uppsala

Day trips from stockholm by train.

• Full of history  
• Beautiful botanic gardens
• Trendy Cafes

Just 40 minutes by train from the city, this is one of the quickest day trips from Stockholm you could do. The city of Uppsala is one of the oldest in Sweden and it shows: there’s a 530-year-old university here, the main building of which is now a museum.

More historic credentials of Uppsala lay at the Carolina Rediviva library, where you can catch a glimpse of the Silver Bible, dating back to the 6th century!

Elsewhere you can visit the city’s elaborate gothic cathedral, the 16th century Uppsala Castle as well as the Linnaean Gardens – the country’s oldest botanic gardens – for a stroll around the manicured grounds.

But alongside all its history, Uppsala’s student population gives it a dynamic edge. There are loads of cafes to try out for some lunch or a snack, a picturesque riverside for an afternoon stroll, and then it’s a quick train ride back to the Swedish capital.

How easy is that for one of the best day trips from Stockholm by train?

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#2 – Gothenburg

• Arty & creative
• Vintage trams
• Delicious food

A Swedish city with a cool edge, Gothenburg is a good option for a day trip from Stockholm . The city itself is quickly becoming a world-class destination, with a trendy arts scene evolving as well as some beautiful parks to stroll about – and just off the shore, there’s an archipelago of islands to explore.

Gothenburg is traditionally a shipbuilding city dating back to 1621. It’s easy to get around and see the sights thanks to its charming vintage tram system.

There’s also a fresh and vibrant student population, bringing new energy into the city – and a day trip here means soaking up all the creativity they imbue, as well as in the art galleries and museums; and shopping for cool Swedish design products.

A cool day trip from Stockholm by train, a visit to Gothenburg also involves hopping in and out of trendy cafes and trying out some of the delicious shellfish that this city is known for.

#3 – Skogskyrkogården

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Natural scenery
• Architecture fans will love it

Leave the hustle and bustle of the city for an authentic Swedish experience at Skogskyrkogården. A perfect half day trip from Stockholm, this one isn’t extremely far from the city itself, but it’s well worth a visit.

Skogskyrkogården (meaning ‘woodland cemetery’) is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site and dates back to the early 1900s. Even though it’s not so far away, making the trip here means spending time among huge pine trees and the freshness of nature.

To get there you can simply take a ride on the capital’s subway system – making it a very easy day trip from Stockholm by train; you’ll be right in amongst the tranquillity of nature before you know it.

This place is renowned for its architecture – the designers, Asplund and Lewerentz, created the iconic Skogskyrkogården based on primitive architecture and medieval Nordic burial grounds, with pathways twisting through the woods, seeming to melt into the surrounding environment.

It’s also notable as the final resting place of Greta Garbo.

Looking for something different? Check out our guide to party hostels in Stockholm !

#4 – Västerås

• Easy day trip
• Loads of history

Even though many people fly to Västerås, it’s only located a hundred kilometres from Stockholm; plus the hour-long journey by train starts conveniently at Stockholm’s central station and runs directly to Västerås.

So on this easy day trip from Stockholm by train, you’ll get to wander around one of Sweden’s oldest cities, which also doubles up as a great space to explore nature.

Set on the scenic shores of Lake Malaren and with a cottage lined river that gently winds through the city centre, Västerås is a calm and cultural day trip from Stockholm – and a chance to refresh yourself outside of the big city.

As for history, Västerås Cathedral dates back to the 13th century and there are some interesting open-air museums to explore. The lesser touristed nature of the city means that you’ll really feel that you’re discovering an authentic slice of Sweden.

Though fairly large, Västerås has a lovely small town feel. However, the downtown area comes complete with skyscrapers – great for those who can’t get enough of cities!

Need to save money? Check out the cheapest hostels in Stockholm !

#5 – Mariefred

• Ride the steam train
• Old royal castle
• Pedal around on a bike

To reach the small town of Mariefred it’s pretty simple: just take the train from Stockholm to Läggesta, which takes only 45 minutes.

From there you have a decision to make: do you walk for three kilometres? Do you get the local bus? Or do you take the steam train into town? We think the steam train journey alone makes it one of the best day trips from Stockholm by train!

Once you’ve arrived in Mariefred you’ll be greeted by a quaint town that’s perfect for wandering around and enjoying its many interesting attractions. Make sure to take a trip to Gripsholm castle, belonging to the Swedish royal family and home to the National Portrait Gallery. The castle looks stunning from the town itself across the water.

You could even rent a bike and pedal further afield – or get the steam train again – to the nearby Taxinge Castle, famous for its cakes! But you should also make a stop in one of Mariefred’s many pretty cafes for a spot of lunch, too.

Staying Safe in Stockholm

While Stockholm is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Sweden!

#6 – Sigtuna Village

Romantic day trips from stockholm for couples.

• Charming streets
• Cool castle

Sigtuna Village is actually the oldest town in Sweden , founded over a thousand years ago, which alone makes it worth a visit.

Spend the day here on one of the best romantic day trips from Stockholm for couples by exploring the village itself and soaking up the history in its charming streets.

The small lanes are lined with very well preserved traditional wooden houses: some famous examples of the old buildings in town include the town hall, built before 1750. Sigtuna Village also includes some of the oldest stone churches in the country, dating back to before the 1100s.

After exploring the village, make a trip to Wenngarn Castle, said to be home to the best preserved Baroque chapel in the whole of Europe. Find out about the castle’s history and hear the tale of Count Magnus Gabriel De La Gardi. Then you can take a breath of fresh air in the carefully manicured palace garden.

Finally, walk around Viby Village with its red cabins – little has changed since the 1850s!

#7 – Fjaederholmarna

• Waterside wandering
• Stunning scenery
• Arty & Creative

Take a little trip out of the city to Stockholm’s closest island, Fjaederholmarna. Simply take a ferry from the city, which takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll soon be surrounded by stunning scenery and beautiful watersides on this lovely island.

Spend as much time as you like here – a couple of hours, or a whole day, relaxing in a tranquil natural setting.

The perfect time to visit is, of course, in summer when you can make the most of what Fjaederholmarna has to offer. You can take a walk along the cliffs, explore the beautiful woodlands for a breath of fresh air. Make sure to pop into the small workshops and shops to see craftspeople hard at work – here you can see glassblowing and pottery boutiques.

On this romantic day trip from Stockholm, after a tasty traditional lunch, the best thing to do is spend the afternoon lazing on the island beach and swimming in the water. Finally, when it’s time to return back to the city, round up your island break perfectly by picking yourself a tasty ice cream at the marina.

Need more info? Here’s a rundown of things to do in Stockholm  to fill your time there!

#8 – Nordic Skiing

• Snowy Adventure
• Natural Landscape

If you want to try out something new with your other half whilst on your city break then this romantic day trip from Stockholm for couples is a great idea. Not only do you get to experience the incredible natural landscapes and Sweden but you also get to try something completely new and a lot of fun. Get away from the city streets and spend your day in the snow travelling across country on skis.

Make sure to travel with a guide who will show you the way through the countryside as well as give you tips and instructions which is especially helpful for beginners.

After a while of sliding through the snow and snapping a load of pictures, you can stop for some well-deserved lunch among the wilds of nature.

Set off again with a stomachful of good food and enjoy the rest of your journey in the romantic setting and make amazing memories in the incredible snowy countryside.

Editor’s Recommendation – You should definitely check out our guide on the coolest places to visit in Sweden.

#9 – Snowshoe Hike

• Amazing frozen lakes
• Woodland trails

Go on an incredible adventure with your other half and enjoy this amazing, romantic day trip from Stockholm for couples as you delve into the snowy Swedish countryside. This is an exciting adventure and best done with a guide who will help you use snowshoes as well as to navigate the pathways through the snow-capped trees.

The trip is a special chance to spend a day in the wild landscape, meeting wild deer and taking in the stunning beauty of frozen lakes and all just a few minutes from the city boundaries.

The day trip is also the chance to learn more about the ecosystem of Sweden – your guide will be able to answer any questions you might have about the country’s wildlife.

After a few hours, you’ll get the chance to warm up around a campfire and enjoy a traditional hearty lunch before finishing up your snowshoe hike. Of course, there’ll be some great opportunities to snap some amazing pictures, too.

#10 – Stora Holmen

Day trips from stockholm with kids.

• Adventure playgrounds
• Quick train journey
• Miniature train

An island in the middle of the River Svartån, Stora Holmen is a haven for families with young children. So if you’re looking for the perfect day trip from Stockholm with kids, then this is definitely up there with the best.

Stora Holmen is located in Örebro, just a couple of hours by train (or by car) west of Stockholm. Örebro is a nice town in itself, but the island of Stora Holmen is a great family day trip from Stockholm because of just how family friendly it is.

Once popular for entertainment like fireworks in the 19th century, today the grassy isle is definitely a place to bring the kids. Stora Holmen boasts play parks, an adventure playground (complete with zip lines!) as well as a miniature train that takes visitors around the island – and that’s only a few of its attractions.

You can also row around the river itself in the summer months – a fun, relaxed way to spend the afternoon!

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#11 – Learn about Viking Culture

• Full of history
• Mysterious old tales
• Educational

This one is such a fun and educational day trip from Stockholm with kids. This trip consists of making your way out of the city centre to the countryside of Uppland where you can go on a hunt for the remains of the Vikings.

You can enjoy the day out with your kids having fun in the outdoors as you come across interesting relics of Sweden’s heritage. Make a stop off at the Broby Bro burial ground and enjoy learning about the strange burial rites of the Vikings as well as the tale of the strong female Viking, Estrid of the Obotrites.

Her story is depicted in the five famous runestones in Uppland. Make a visit to the Jarlabanke where the family can find out about the Viking chief, Jarlabanke himself and his tales from more runestones.

Finally, you have to see the Arkils Tingstad, which is the site of an old Viking parliament to understand more about Viking society as well as sipping on a well earned (alcohol-free) Viking mead before the return journey home.

#12 – Tom Tits Experiment

• Quick and simple journey
• Great chance for fun

Named after a character that appeared in French newspaper l’Illustration, as well as several books, Tom Tits Experiment is a science museum that makes for an interesting day trip from Stockholm with kids.

Boasting a huge 450 different science experiments over four floors, this interactive museum is sure to be a hit with curious young minds; your children can ride with robots, learn about the periodic table, and even freefall from 15 metres! There’s also an outdoor park open from May to September, too.

This fun-filled family day trip from Stockholm is great since it’s not only fun, but it’s also educational, so your children can learn about the world around them thanks to some pretty fascinating science experiments.

From the capital, it’s just half an hour by car or 45 minutes on the train, so it’s simple to get to this cool science museum, so this could even work as an easy half day trip from Stockholm.

#13 – Kayaking in the Archipelago

• Island hopping
• Explore nature
• Outdoor adventure

This top day trip from Stockholm is perfect for families with older kids who want to have a fun and active day out together. The day-long trip will take you are your family out onto the open water as you paddle at your own pace around the many deserted islands that sit in the waters close to Stockholm.

Take a tour that will teach you the basics of kayaking equip you with the skills you need to explore the open water.

Many of the islands in the archipelago are uninhabited – these have become havens for wildlife, which is fantastic for nature lovers who can learn all about the local flora and fauna that thrives in these conditions.

Kayaking in the calm of the waters is great fun, especially when the weather is good and the sun is shining. You can paddle into inlets and bays and take a break for lunch on a deserted beach. Afterwards, if its warm enough, you’ll have the chance to take a refreshing dip in the cool of the water, too!

#14 – Wildlife Safari

• Perfect for nature lovers
• Magical atmosphere
• Try traditional Swedish food

The perfect Summer day trip from Stockholm, exploring the city’s nearby forests is sure to be something that all the family will enjoy.

Just 20 minutes from the city itself and you’ll be surrounded by woodlands. Wild boar, deer and moose can be seen on this unique safari, taking place around sunset when the wildlife is quite active.

It’s also a chance to learn more about the history of rural Sweden, too, with 17th-century country mansions and ancient runestones dotting the trail as you move from meadows to woodlands spotting animals. The adventurous nature of this tour means it’ll be great as a day trip from Stockholm with kids – just picture your children stomping around the woods with myths, legends and Vikings in their imagination!

And then you finish up with a tasty traditional Swedish midsummer meal before heading back to the city.

#15 – Fire & Ice Skating

• Evening adventure
• Natural ice
• Barbecue dinner

Try out something a little bit different and take your family on a classically Swedish trip . Wrap up warm and head out of the city in the late afternoon as the sun starts to set on this amazing day trip from Stockholm for kids, and enjoy an adventure they’ll never forget.

The natural ice that coats much of the countryside outside of Stockholm is perfect for skating and makes for a fun evening spent with your family having fun on the ice. The skating routes are lit by fire with torches so you get to have an actual adventure as you slide by torchlight over the natural ice.

Marshalls are on hand to guide the way and help out if anybody needs help making it a safe and enjoyable experience for children. Once you’ve had enough fun gliding through along the skating course, warm up with a dinner cooked on the barbecue.

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Stockholm

Our list of the best day trips in Sweden mean you might not even have any time at all to explore the city itself – there’s just so much to do just on the doorstep of the capital!

From tours to learn all about the country’s Viking past and island exploration, to science museums and a chance to spot wildlife in beautiful settings, there’s a lot on offer.

There are so many places that are easy to get to by train, too – even other major cities like the vibrant Gothenburg, and charming towns like Mariefred, are easily reached by rail.

So what are you waiting for? Stockholm is waiting!

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5 Amazing Day Trips From Stockholm You Shouldn’t Miss

Last Modified: January 22, 2024 //  by  Anda //   15 Comments

It’s hard to run out of things to do in Stockholm.  From museums and art galleries, to  great restaurants, parks and unusual city tours there is plenty to see and do in this great city. But if you have more time in the Swedish capital and want to explore the area around, you can try some unique day trips from Stockholm. 

Table of Contents

1. Trip to Landsort Village

2. trip to julita manor, 3. day trip to nynäs manor & nature reserve, 4. day trip to nyköping.

• 5. Day Trip to Birka 

AMAZING DAY TRIPS FROM STOCKHOLM

While Stockholm is easy to visit on foot, doing these day trips will require taking the boat, or other means of public transportation, or hiring a car. Driving in Sweden is not difficult however, so the most convenient way to reach these destinations from Stockholm is by car.

Landsort has its own way of attracting visitors. The remote little village nestled on the most southern island of the Stockholm Archipelago holds a lot of history. And it is also home to a very unique flora and fauna. But the most important attraction in Landsort is its beautiful lighthouse, which is the oldest one in Sweden. 

Getting to Landsort from Stockholm

Landsort is about 60 kilometers south of Stockholm, on Öja island. To reach the island from Stockholm you need to take a boat from the town of Nynäshamn, where you can get by train or by bus. The boat ride takes about 40 minutes, but the total time from central Stockholm is nearly three hours.

Visiting Landsort Village

Visiting Landsort was one of our the best day trips from Stockholm. The village is located on Öja island, a long and narrow strip of land with a very unusual nature. Unlike any other island in the Archipelago, Öja has barren rocky areas that alternate with verdant vegetation. The northern part of the island is dense forest with shrubs. The southern part has swamps and marshes populated with rare species of orchids and other botanical rarities.

Landsort’s current population is around thirty people. There is a number of vacation homes on the island, so during the summer months the number of inhabitants is considerably higher. 

As you walk through the serene village with little red houses, granite boulders and a wild coastline you get a sense of peace and tranquility. Time seems to have stopped here, since nobody worries about its passing.

Landsort is home to the oldest one in Sweden. The original building was erected in the 1660s, but the current structure dates only from 1870. If you climb up to the top of the lighthouse you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the island and the sea.

At the foot of the lighthouse you can also visit the bunkers and the naval guns, vestiges of the intricate military installations that were once ready to defend Sweden from an attack. For more information on Sweden’s military history you should read Jane Dempster’s article “ Stockholm’s Archipelago & Military History, Sweden .”

Some of the most exciting day trips from Stockholm include the manor houses and castles in the beautiful region of Södermland. Julita Manor is a mansion like no other. The estate started as a monastery in the Middle Ages ( Julita Abbey ) and continued to grow and receive big donations from the Swedish kings and other members of the aristocracy.

During the Protestant Reformation, King Gustav Vasa seized the abbey and gave its rights to his vassal, the bailiff in Nyköping. After becoming a secular domain, Julita changed hands many times between members of the Swedish nobility, but it never went back into the possession of the church.

What sets Julita apart from all the other manor house in the region is that it’s still a working farm. Julita Manor still maintains all its original structures that insured its sustainability in the past.

Visiting Julita Manor

The beautiful country estate that you see today dates from the turn of the 20th century and has been preserved with all its elegant interiors and parks.

The manor house itself was erected in 1760, after a fire destroyed an earlier structure on the site. Visiting Julita Manor is like stepping back in time into a world of luxury and elegance, a world long forgotten.

The estate park and rustic cottages inspired by Skansen are particularly beautiful. One can easily spend the whole day at Julita, going inside all buildings, taking a horse drawn carriage tour through the park, visiting the church, the museum, the dairy. 

Julita hosts lots of events and festivals all year round. From Walpurgis Night, to Midsummer and Christmas Market you can experience old Swedish ceremonies celebrated in traditional style. In summer there is an International Chamber Music Festival, the Julita Festival, featuring classical concerts performed by young international musicians.

The beautiful region of Sörmland is home to many lavish and elegant estates, vestiges of a time when wealthy landowners controlled the agricultural production of Sweden. Set on the Swedish Baltic coast, about 80 km south of Stockholm, the Nynäs manor and nature reserve is the largest in the in the province of Södermanland. On a day trip from Stockholm you’ll have time to visit this beautiful estate that encompasses over 8000 acres.

The manor house which was built in the late 17th century by the influential Gyllenstierna family, is considered today one of the best preserved historical houses open to the public in Sweden, still displaying the original art and furniture from more than three centuries ago. That is very valuable because it gives today’s visitor a good idea about the lifestyle of the Swedish aristocracy from the late 1600s up to the early 20th century.

Visiting Nynär Manor

Although it is considered a “country home,” the house is quite luxuriously furnished. The place seems very much alive, leaving you with the feeling that it is still occupied by its owners. The main house was actually inhabited till the late 20th century, when it was sold to Sweden’s National Museum. The closets and cupboards are still full of textiles, cloths and glass sets.

The manor’s owners kept the plumbing, gas and electricity up to date. However, the big kitchen escaped modernization. You can still see the old wood stoves and all the pots and pans used centuries ago.

Some of the old buildings that have been used in the past by the craftsmen and workers on the estate are still standing today. The old distillery building serves today as a hostel for those interested in staying on the estate overnight.

The castle’s conservatory (orangery) has been turned into a nice restaurant that serves both food and “fika.” During the summer months the terrace outside the orangery is open, so you enjoy the beautiful views of the estate while having lunch. There is also a nice flower/garden shop next to the restaurant.

For a completely different kind of day tour from Stockholm you should go to Nyköping. The small town is about an hour south of the capital, alongside the Swedish Baltic coast. Nyköping has a population of around 30,000, and its main industry is manufacturing. The town is really nice and is one of the oldest cities in Sweden. 

Getting to Nyköping from Stockholm

There are several ways to get to Nyköping from Stockholm: 

By car: driving south from Stockholm via E4 is probably the easiest way to get to Nyköping. By bus: there are several buses going from Stockholm to Nyköping, also via E4. Or by train: regional trains depart from Stockholm’s central station, taking around 1 hour to reach Norrköping.

Visiting Nyköping

Strolling around the city center is probably the best thing to do in a town like Nyköping. The city center is where you will find the shops, the restaurants and some beautiful old buildings. Along the Main Street you will find the City Hall and the church of St. Nicolai, dating back to medieval times.

Another nice place for enjoying the town’s laid back atmosphere is the Nyköping Harbor. The area is not very big, but you can easily spend a couple of hours here enjoying the sea views.

Given its proximity to the capital, Nyköping makes one of the easiest day trips from Stockholm. However, the town makes a nice base to explore the beautiful region of Södermanland. If you decide to spend a couple of days in Nyköping, my recommendation for lodging would be the Sunlight Hotel.

The Sunlight Hotel

Located just a short 5-minute walk from Nyköping Train Station and 10-minute drive from Stockholm-Skavsta Airport, the hotel is very accessible. This one-of-a-kind hotel is one of the most unique accommodations in which I ever stayed. Don’t let the small, unimpressive appearance fool you.

The Sunlight Hotel was once and old soap factory. The only thing that betrays that however is its unusual floor plan. But the huge spaces have been cleverly turned into very attractive and useful areas, with comfortable and stylish furniture, oriental rugs, and appealing decor. 

There are several spacious meeting rooms named after Swedish bar soaps (Surf, Sunlight, Lux). You’ll see large staircases and corridors and even a car museum on the third floor. The museum has a beautiful collection of vintage cars (Ford, Excalibur, Cadillac to Ferrari.)

Nyköping makes one of the best day trips from Stockholms. The town is only 55 mile away from the city, so it’s an easy outing. There is plenty of fun stuff to do and the area is unusually beautiful. 

5. Day Trip to Birka  

If you want to get a glimpse of how the Vikings used to live, a day trip to Birka, on the island of Björkö, is your best bet. After a 2.5 hrs boat ride in the southern arcapeligo of Stockholm you will find yourself in a rough landscape where myth and legend meet.

Birka was the biggest town in Scandinavia during the Viking age. The settlement was established in mid 8th century and is considered the oldest urban community in the Scandinavian peninsula. 

The highlight of a visit to Birka is taking a tour of the Viking Village. The tour lasts about 45 minutes and takes you inside traditional Viking homes and some old burial sites. You’ll learn about daily life in Viking times and about how the black soil of Birka helped the city to prosper. 

The museum on Birka is small but it has a huge model of a Viking village which shows hot the Vikings lived. There are also a few life size building reconstructions, craft areas and a fort. After the tour you can wander around in the fields and take pictures. Birka is perfect to visit on a sunny day. 

You spend roughly 3 – 3.5 hrs on the island before the boat takes you back to Stockholm. If you have time before the boat arrives, head to port restaurant for a hearty lunch overlooking the sea.

Did you do any of these outings from Stockholm? What was your favorite one?

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

March 14, 2019 at 3:35 pm

This looks absolutely wonderful! I’ve not been to Scandinavia but my husband has and he loved it so I have a good chance in getting there when he returns.

Bhushavali N

March 11, 2019 at 2:53 pm

I haven’t been to Sweden yet but I really hope to visit soon. Lansort village and Birka are definitely fascinating. Birka is 2.5hrs by boat? That’s pretty far away! But I bet its an awesome place esp., to take the kids.

Anda Galffy

March 11, 2019 at 3:16 pm

The boat trip in itself is very beautiful, so I’m sure the kids will have lots of fun.

March 11, 2019 at 6:27 am

Wow, all day trips from Stockholm are worth with wonderful nature and beautiful houses. Landsort village with only 30 people looks relaxing and very peaceful. A must visit in summer from busy city life. Day Trip to Nynäs Manor & Nature Reserve looks enchanting with lovely estates and grand Manor.

Daniel Kiteski

March 11, 2019 at 2:25 am

I have never visited Stockholm before and I have to admit I didn’t know that there were so many interesting day trips to take from the capital. The Nynäs Manor look fascinating. Visiting Stockholm and Sweden wasn’t really high on my bucket list but this post just pushed it up a few places ? Thank you for sharing.

Rhonda Albom

March 11, 2019 at 1:23 am

I haven’t been to Sweden yet. The day trips from Stockholm sound quite interesting. I’d like to visit the Nynäs Manor estate. The original kitchen looks amazing.

March 11, 2019 at 1:48 pm

Hope you’ll get to visit Stockholm someday, Rhonda.

March 10, 2019 at 8:02 am

Even though I am guilty of not doing this previously, now, whenever I travel to a new place, I make it a point to check out some of the day-trips that let me explore the surrounding areas. Stockholm is quite high on my travel list, and I would especially love to visit Landsort Village. It looks ideal for some peaceful introspection. As an amateur photographer, the island does come across as quaint and would make for a lovely subject.

March 10, 2019 at 6:36 am

I can’t believe Landsort has a population of 30 people! I’ve never heard of such a small population. Julita manor looks absolutely gorgeous, but I also love that it is a fully functioning farm!

Jane Dempster-Smith

March 9, 2019 at 1:48 pm

There is so much to do outside Stockholm. The Manor Houses looked amazing. I was interested to learn more about the Sunlight Hotel once being used as the Sunlight soap factory. Thanks for sharing.

Carrie Ann Karstunen

March 9, 2019 at 10:08 am

We’re visiting Stockholm this summer, and I’m just starting to plan our activities. I love your suggestions for day trips from the city! Both Julita Manor and Nynäs Manor look so beautiful – I bet I could spend an entire day visiting either. Thanks for the great ideas!

Kavita Favelle

March 9, 2019 at 1:43 am

We spent a few days in Stockholm in 2017 and loved the city. I had planned to do some day trips but in the end we didn’t leave the city. I love your suggestions of places to visit, especially Landsort and Nyköping.

March 8, 2019 at 5:55 pm

Sweden looks like such an inviting place. There are so many places to visit here. Thanks to this post I now have a clear idea what needs to be seen and how. I love lighthouses and the Landsort lighthouse looks so beautiful.

March 7, 2019 at 7:33 pm

I’ve not been to Scandinavia yet, so I had no idea of what to expect. Great idea to take day trips to explore the countryside around Stockholm. I would love to explore more of the region’s Viking heritage. It’s so interesting.

However, I’m left with one puzzling question after reading your article: How did they get all those cars up to the third floor?!

March 9, 2019 at 12:13 am

Don’t forget this was a soap factory before being a hotel. The building had huge corridors and elevators. Being a factory I’m sure they had huge machines for making soap as well, so when they took those out, it was easy to replace them with a few cars.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Stockholm

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Top 10 BEST Day Trips from Stockholm (Sweden)

Stockholm is the largest city and capital of Sweden and a must-visit tourist attraction. You can visit a lot of exciting museums to learn about the arts, culture, and history of the city. If you love outdoors, you will definitely fall in love with the beautiful countryside around the city where woodlands, islands , coastal towns, and lakes offer a lot of room for day trips from Stockholm and adventures.

You can go wherever you want to be with its excellent rail, road, and boat connectivity and you will come across a lot of things to do on the outskirts of the city.

Visit the ancient villages, UNESCO World Heritage Sites , spectacular waterways, and fairytale castles in your boat trips from Stockholm. This sprawling archipelago houses over 30000 islands, and you can visit these islands and all of their tourist attractions with boat trips in Stockholm.

So, here are the best day trips from Stockholm to plan your adventure:

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Tourists who are planning day trips from Stockholm should visit this idyllic town after visiting the whole capital and enjoying most of the sightseeing. Boat trips from Stockholm will take you to the core of this destination, which is also the birthplace of Sweden , Sigtuna.

With this 9-hour boat trip, you will sail along the calm and serene waters of Lake Mälaren to get a deep insight into the past of Sweden’s capital, which dates back to 980 CE, its ruins, leftovers, and churches. The cruise is available from the start of July to the mid of August .

Where to stay: Best hotels in Sigtuna, Sweden

Drottningholm Palace

Visiting Stockholm is an experience on its own, but if you do decide to wander other places in the surrounding areas, then you must not miss Drottningholm Palace , which is the UNESCO World Heritage Site and where the King and Queen of Sweden live. It also includes entry to the Chinese Pavilion, Drottningholm Palace itself, an 18th-century old theater, and the nearby gardens and parks.

It takes around an hour from Stockholm to Drottingham, but if you take a boat trip, it will take you about 5 hours, but you may want to stay longer and get back by public transport or subway to get around in the city. Boats leave from the deck near the City Hall. These boat trips are available from March to October .

It is a convenient 70km train trip or a short road trip through the northwest of the city center and only a 25-minute drive when you are coming from Arlanda Airport .

The historic University City, Uppsala houses a rich history and captivates the eyes of visitors from different parts of the world. It is the fourth largest city in Sweden, but you won’t see it like that because it has the traditional feel, especially if you are meandering along the old town’s winding streets.

Some of the major highlights are Domkyrka, a 13th-century cathedral, and Gustavianum, the University Museum . You may definitely love to wander around the Botanic Gardens and the university grounds, and relax in several cafes and waterside parks.

If you have the plan to get there without the hassle of getting lost, and navigating the streets, pick the weekend trips from Stockholm tours which include Uppsala. These full-weekend adventures have an exotic visit to the historical landmarks of Viking in Granby and Täby, with a guided tour to Old Uppsala and Sigtuna. Have all the fun and free time to have the complete experience of New Uppsala.

It is an amazing city with plenty of romantic and small cafes , medieval buildings , and vivid nightlife . To get to Uppsala from Stockholm (or from Stockholm to Uppsala), you may take a 2-hour train journey from the city. Be sure to explore Uppsala Castle and Uppsala Cathedral, along with pre-historic mounds and pre-Viking in the old side of town.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Uppsala, Sweden

Lake Mälaren

The third-largest lake in Sweden, Lake Mälaren, is located west of Stockholm. This waterway is 117km long, which extends the way along the regions of Uppsala, Västmanland, Södermanland, and Stockholm to Baltic.

A lot of inlets and arms align the shores. Boats sail to Stockholm from the Baltic region on the Hammarbyleden and Södertälje Canal. The shores are partly rocky and fertile, which house manor houses, castles, and sprawling estates.

The boat services run across 1000 islands, including Björkö during summers. On Mälaren, the principal provinces are Västerås, Stockholm, and Uppsala.

Vaxholm belongs to a cluster of thousands of islands, Stockholm Archipelago, which are simple to access from the capital of Sweden. It is located only 30-minutes from the capital on a quick boat ride. Vaxholm is a small town that is preserved well, and it has the art of the 19th century in the form of rustic wooden homes painted in typical pastel colors.

Vaxholm Fortress is known to be among the tourist attractions built to prevent pirates in the 16th century. You can visit the fortress and witness its exhibits in the Swedish National Museum .

Take the boat trip from Stockholm to explore the picture-perfect town of Vaxholm located in the northeast of the archipelago. It is an idyllic tourist destination filled with shops, narrow streets, and citadel, and art galleries.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Vaxholm, Sweden

Located in the far east of Stockholm Archipelago, the Sand Harbor or Sandhamn is a small town located only two hour’s drive from Sweden capital. If you have time, take the scenic boat ride to set your journey longer.

It has become an incredibly popular destination for both global tourists as well as the Swedes. Sandhamn was initially a sea pilot station. Today, it is nothing like a destination for fun-loving tourists. You may rent a kayak or a bike when you get here to witness the town. You can enjoy swimming on the pebble beaches during summers .

Where to stay: Best hotels in Sandhamn, Sweden

Saltsjöbaden

Located around 25 minutes of a train ride or 20km southeast of Stockholm, Saltsjöbaden is a small posh town in the Baggensfjärd. It houses a yacht marina along with a trendy seaside resort, golf course, grand hotel , and tennis courts.

Do you have the courage to challenge yourself? Enjoy bathing in an open-air pool named Friluftsbad. If you want to soak up the sun and dine by the salty sea air and water, boat in the bay, or lounge on the beach , Friluftsbad is the hottest favorite destination for day trips in Stockholm.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Saltsjöbaden, Sweden

Birch Island (Björkö)

The Birch Island of Björkö is located around 30km west of Stockholm. It is one of the oldest towns in Sweden. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , which was the hub for trading in the Mälar Valley during the Viking era.

Birka has been the attraction for both local and foreign tourists, as it dates back to the 8th century. A wealth of pre-historic leftovers have been studied and excavated since the 19th century. From Strömma Kanalbolaget, boat trips depart at City Hall during summer . You can dine at the restaurant on the island and take guided tours here .

Sörmlandsleden

The Sörmland trail or Sörmlandsleden is mainly a hiking tour system , and the trails cover 1000 km of walkways south of Stockholm. The walking path passes through the areas of cultural tradition, natural reserves , and various ancient monuments.

The trail starts at Björkhagen and takes the tourists through various provinces, including Nynäshamn, Stockholm, Nyköping, Trosa, Oxelösund, Hälleforsnäs, Katrineholm and others. Several branches here pass through the areas like Eskilstuna, Flen, Mariefred, and Gnesta.

You may take the trails which take you through Paradiset Natural Reserve, Tyresta National Park , Nackareservatet, Stora Träsket Nature Reserve, and other natural reserves.

You will spot the orange-colored markings on the trail along the pole and signs or rings with letter “S” or symbols with an orange backdrop. The path will take you through various difficulty levels and different terrains.

You can also rest at campsites, lean-to, rest areas, shelters, and log cabins. You can also refill your bottle with fresh drinking water from various springs here. There are 100 sections on the trails. The section length varies from 3km to 17km.

There are six runestones at Broby bro which is located at Uppland. The Broby bro runestones U139, U151, and U140, stand tall by the road, but U136, U135, and U137 are standing away from the road. The last three stones dated back to 1020 to 1050 in Pr2 style, but the internal bonding proves that U137 is the oldest runestone.

They belong to the c.20 group of runestones, Jarlabanke, and his clan, which are combined with the local strongman. These runestones belong to the matriarch of Estrid clan with the Hargs bro and Uppland Rune and runic inscriptions 101, 147, and 143.

The U137 is the sign that Gag is the son of Osten and Estrid, who dies, and Osten was still alive when it was raised. U135 and U136 are the twin monument which is the symbol of the visit of Osten to Jeruselum, and he died in the Byzantine Empire.

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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Europe Tours & Trips from Stockholm

Find your perfect adventure! We have 40 tours of Europe that start in Stockholm, Sweden. The most popular month is July, and tour lengths range between 3 and 17 days.

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This was our first time travelling with this company, and we thoroughly enjoyed the whole itinerary of activities. It was fast paced though and requires a lot of walking. Also, the guides are more geared towards Spanish-speaking people, as this company is based out of Spain, but they do also speak English and will translate most of the time. Hotels are comfortable and you can walk into the Old Towns from most of them. Breakfast buffet was AMAZING every time.

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Central Baltic

Unser Reis war sehr spannend und mann konnte vieles sehen. Ihn 3 Tagen, waren wir ihn 3 Länder. Die Unterkünfte waren immer Zentrum nah. Über diese Bookingseite würde ich wieder buchen.

Baltic Capitals End Berlin

I am an experienced traveler having traveled to 43 countries. I have used many different tour companies but Europamundo was by far the best value for the amount of money I paid. The hotels were all excellent as were our tour guide, bus driver and local tour guides. I have no reservations about recommending Europamundo.

4 Day Stockholm including Wildlife Safari, Hike in Nature Reserve & Kayak Boat Tour

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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The tour was great!!! I had a blast, it was just the perfect amount of time in each capital to grasp the history and culture.

We had a awesome and blast time touring Central Baltic. All hotel accommodations and ferry cabin were good and excellent. We learned about culture , history, architecture, food and so on. Wonderful walking tour. Highly recommend. Gina Tellez and Ray Bradley.

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Best Day Trips from Stockholm

The Swedish capital of Stockholm has plenty to offer visitors. Home to the magnificent Royal Palace of the Swedish royal family, it's packed full of historic monuments, great restaurants, trendy wine bars, and everything you need to enjoy a city break. Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Stockholm , and the city will be yours to explore.

But once you've seen the sights of Stockholm, including the best museums in the city , the Stockholm Archipelago has much more to offer. The best day trips from Stockholm can help you see more of Sweden and of Scandinavia as a whole. However you like to spend your time on vacation, there's probably a day trip from Stockholm for you. So leave the bags behind and get ready to explore outside of central Stockholm with these great day trips.

How to get out of Stockholm

As you can see from our guide on how to get around Stockholm , this is a city with great public transport infrastructure. It's not hard to get around Stockholm without a vehicle, and the same applies to much of the Stockholm Archipelago and beyond. After all, Stockholm Central Station is the biggest rail station in all of Sweden, with connections to cities throughout the country and into neighboring Norway and Denmark. That makes it the perfect base for day trips from Stockholm by train. Additionally, many long-distance bus services use the railway station as a hub and can take you to places the trains don't go.

Of course, depending on where you want to go, renting a car may also be an option. You probably don't want to drive inside Stockholm itself if you can avoid it, but if you want to visit some of the more remote attractions in the region, it might be a good idea to have your own transport.

From Stockholm to Uppsala Cathedral

The city of Uppsala is less than an hour away from Stockholm by train, making it one of the best day trips from the Swedish capital. It's home to Sweden's second oldest university, as well as a magnificent cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. If you're interested in Swedish history and culture, Uppsala makes for a great day out.

Start your visit at the Uppsala Cathedral, which towers over the rest of the city. This Gothic structure is one of the largest cathedrals in Scandinavia and is well worth a look inside. After that, make your way to the Gamla Uppsala Museum to learn more about the area's Viking past. Then, explore the beautiful Botanical Gardens before grabbing a bite to eat in one of Uppsala's many excellent restaurants. As Sweden's fourth largest city, the city offers a good range of things to do but has a more laid-back and historic feel than the capital.

How to get to Uppsala

The easiest way to get to Uppsala from Stockholm is by taking the train. The journey can take as little as 38 minutes, taking you right from central Stockholm to the heart of the University city in no time at all. That's what makes this one of the best day trips from Stockholm.

From Stockholm to Drottningholm Palace

Just outside of Stockholm is the Drottningholm Palace , one of the Swedish royal family's official residences. This beautiful Baroque palace is surrounded by manicured gardens and is well worth a visit if you're interested in architecture or history. You can even take a boat ride from Stockholm to get there, making it one of the most scenic day trips from the city.

Once you arrive at Drottningholm, start your visit by wandering around the grounds and gardens. Then, head inside the palace itself to see the incredible stately rooms and art collections. After that, make sure to check out the Chinese Pavilion and the Drottningholm Palace Theatre , which is still used for operas and other performances. You can easily spend a whole day here, so it's a great option if you're looking for things to do outside of Stockholm.

How to get to Drottningholm Palace

The easiest way to get to Drottningholm Palace from Stockholm is by taking the boat. The journey takes around an hour each way and gives you some great views of Stockholm as you cruise through the archipelago. Alternatively, you can take the bus, which takes around 45 minutes. Either way, this is one of the most scenic day trips from Stockholm.

From Stockholm to Marstrand Island

For something a little different, why not take a day trip to the island of Marstrand? This small island off the west coast of Sweden is a popular summer destination, known for its excellent beaches and pretty harbor. It's also home to a medieval fortress, which you can explore on a guided tour.

Start your day with a wander around the picturesque streets of Marstrand before heading down to the waterfront to soak up the atmosphere. Then, take a swim in the crystal-clear waters or sunbathe on the beach. If you're feeling active, you can even go windsurfing or sailing. In the afternoon, visit Carlsten Fortress for some great views over the island and the surrounding coastline. Before heading back to Stockholm, make sure to sample some of the excellent seafood on offer in Marstrand.

How to get to Marstrand Island

The easiest way to get to Marstrand from Stockholm is by taking the ferry. The journey takes around three hours, but it's a very scenic ride. Alternatively, you can take the train to Gothenburg and then catch a connecting ferry, which takes around five hours in total. Either way, this is one of the most enjoyable day trips from Stockholm.

From Stockholm to Gripsholm Castle

Gripsholm Castle is one of Sweden's most iconic castles and makes for a great day trip from Stockholm. This beautiful castle is located on the shores of Lake Malaren and dates back to the 16th century. Inside, you'll find a fascinating museum with an extensive art collection, as well as a number of historic rooms to explore.

If you're interested in Swedish history, Gripsholm Castle is a must-visit. Start your visit in the castle museum, which tells the story of the castle and its occupants over the centuries. Then, explore the beautifully decorated rooms and take in the views from the top of the tower. After that, make sure to stroll around the grounds and enjoy the peaceful setting by the lake.

How to get to Gripsholm Castle

The best way to get to Gripsholm Castle from Stockholm is by taking the boat. The journey takes around two hours each way, but it's a great way to see some of Sweden's stunning scenery. Alternatively, you can take the bus, which takes around an hour, or you could drive here in about 50 minutes. Regardless of how you get here, this is one of the most scenic day trips from Stockholm.

From Stockholm to Lake Mälaren

If you're looking for a day trip from Stockholm that's a little more relaxed, then head to Lake Mälaren. This large lake is located just outside of the city and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle. There are a number of small towns and villages dotted around the lake, so it's easy to find somewhere to relax for the day.

Start your day with a wander around one of the many quaint towns or take a swim in the refreshing waters of the lake. Then, enjoy a pleasant hike through the woods or go for a bike ride along the scenic lakeside paths. After that, have lunch in one of the local cafes or restaurants before heading back to Stockholm.

How to get to Lake Mälaren

There are lots of different points of entry to get to the lake, and one of the best ways to explore it is with a boat cruise right from Stockholm itself. Alternatively, you could take a bus or drive to one of the lakeside towns, some of which are no more than an hour outside of Stockholm.

From Stockholm to Sigtuna

If you're looking for a day trip with a bit of history, then head to Sigtuna. This charming town is located just outside of Stockholm and is one of the oldest towns in Sweden. It's known for its picturesque streets and medieval buildings, as well as its restaurants and cafes.

Start your visit with a walk around the town center to explore the historic buildings and take in the views. Then, stop for a coffee or lunch in one of the many cafes before heading to the Museum of Medieval Stockholm. This museum is located in an old monastery and is a great place to learn about Sigtuna's history. After that, make sure to visit the Stora Kyrkan, which is the town's large medieval church.

How to get to Sigtuna

There's no train service to Sigtuna, so you're looking at a bus ride of around an hour or a drive of about 45 minutes.

From Stockholm to the Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Stockholm. This group of islands is located just outside of the city and is a great place to enjoy some fresh air and stunning scenery. There are thousands of islands to explore, so you can easily spend a day or two island-hopping.

Start your trip with a visit to Gamla Stan, the old town centre of Stockholm. Then, take a ferry out to one of the many islands in the archipelago. Once there, enjoy a hike through the forests or go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters. Make sure to stop at one of the picturesque villages along the way for lunch before heading back to Stockholm.

How to get to the Stockholm Archipelago

There are regular ferry services that operate from central Stockholm to the islands, and many of the islands can also be reached by boat or bus. A great way to see a lot of the archipelago without a lot of effort is to take a boat cruise from the city.

From Stockholm to Jarlabanke Rune Stones

Jarlabanke Rune Stones are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Stockholm. This place is located just outside of the city and is a great place to learn about Swedish history. The site is made up of 26 large rune stones, each of which tells a different story. The ancient rune stones were built on the orders of Earl Jarlabanke, one of the most infamous Viking rulers, and this site will take you straight back to the Viking age and teach you more about this fascinating culture.

You can either take a guided tour of the site or explore it on your own. Either way, make sure to stop at the museum afterward to learn more about the history of the ship and the people who built it.

How to get to Jarlabanke Rune Stones

There is no direct public transport to Jarlabanke Rune Stones, so you'll need to take a bus or drive there. The journey takes around 45 minutes by bus or 30 minutes by car.

Surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery and with a wealth of fascinating history to draw on, Stockholm has so much to offer visitors. But the same is true of the region around the city. Head out of Stockholm on one of these day trips to see more of the country, and you'll be able to appreciate Sweden in a whole new way. And knowing your bags are being safely looked after by Bounce will make it much easier to get out and enjoy this part of the world.

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10 Best Road Trips Near Stockholm

Escape to södermanland and uppland this weekend.

Away from the popular sights of the city, you'll find a trove of hidden, beautiful and historical environments – so make the time to discover these exciting spots within 1 hour from Stockholm. Just outside the city lie Viking remains, medieval castle ruins, stately renaissance palaces, both modern and classic art, picturesque towns, award-winning shopping malls, ancient forests in vibrant greens and wholesome archipelago experiences.

Whether you're traveling by automobile or using the region's well developed public transportation network, you'll find no shortage of destinations near Stockholm , for kids and adults alike.

Live like a Viking on Lake Mälaren

The world-heritage site of Birka is home to an exciting Viking village and educational exhibitions for all ages. The island's gorgeous location on Lake Mälaren made it a perfect trading outpost more than one thousand years ago, although it doesn't help with getting there today. Luckily the island is well served by public boats.

Stroll around Viking dwellings, listen to an expert guide and let the kids try their hand at some practical crafts like making candles or jewelry. There are plenty of nice spots to grab a snack or take a swim, too, so why not make your trip a whole day affair?

photo by Bengt A Lundberg ( CC BY-SA 2.5 ) modified

Feel the pulse of history in a university town with roots in the Iron Age

Uppsala is a beautiful and lively town with a rich history and a more relaxed pace of life compared to its big-city neighbor. The city is just 43 miles north of Stockholm but is easily reached by high-speed rail in just under 40 minutes. Once you've arrived, sign up to a guided tour for some expert insights from a local guide, or head out on your own and get lost along the tranquil river or among the city's charming streets. Be sure not to miss the majestic cathedral. Or if you feel like strolling along through ancient environs, pay a visit to the Gamla Uppsala archeological site and museum.

Uppsala is also a great place to go shopping or kick back with a coffee and a cinnamon bun. Before you go, be sure to pick up a memento from the city's trendy craft cooperative Öster om Ån.

The Royal Palace in Stockholm (Kungliga Slottet)

Stockholm Travel Essentials

Stockholm Arlanda Airport

Discover sweden's medieval capital.

Before there was Stockholm there was Sigtuna, now a cute little town that takes great pride in its historical weight. The handy location just 30 miles north of Stockholm makes Sigtuna a great day-trip destination. Discover some of Sigtuna's more than 150 runestones.

Visit Sigtuna Museum and learn more about what life was once like in Sweden's former center of political gravity and the place where the first Swedish coins were minted. And if you're interested in technology and aviation, be sure to visit Arlanda Flygsamlingar just out of town, where you can see propeller planes and try out a flight simulator.

Rune Kingdom (Runriket)

Read the words of the vikings.

Rune Kingdom (Runriket) is home to some exceptionally well-preserved rune stones dating back to the Viking ages. This historically important area is located around 24 miles north of Stockholm, around the Vallentuna Lake. Check out the gorgeous rune snakes at Fällbro and Gällsta, which were carved by the evidently very active rune master, Öpnir.

Be sure to also visit the Arkils Assembly (Arkils tingstad) which is marked out by stones before enjoying a picnic by the lake. If you plan your visit to coincide with Rune Kingdom Day then you will also be able to sample some typical Viking food or watch the Vikings make handicrafts and do battle.

Tyresta National Park

Explore an ancient forest and glimmering lakes between city and archipelago.

Tyresta National Park is an ancient, spell-binding forest located just 18 miles south of Stockholm. The easiest way to get there from the capital is by automobile, although the right combination of metros and buses will also get you there in about an hour.

Begin your visit at Naturum to learn more about the Swedish national parks and to get information about the trails and guided tours. Then set off on your adventure through the verdant forest, following one of the marked trails which vary in length between 1.5 and 8.5 miles.

Location: Svartbäckens by 361, 136 59 Vendelsö, Sweden

Phone: +46 8 745 33 94

Stroll through an idyllic small town that's packed with art and culture

The charming town of Södertälje is brimming with picture-perfect architecture, stately palaces and great opportunities to get out on the lake. The town is located just 24 miles south west of Stockholm and can be easily reached by public transportation.

Spend a sunny day outside Tullgarn Palace where Swedish King Gustaf V used to pass his summers. Wander around Södertälje Art Gallery where you'll also find entertaining events for kids at regular intervals. Or take an incredible trip out onto Lake Mälaren aboard a genuine steamship from days gone by. And be sure to explore the historic environments at the idyllic open-air museum of Torekällberget where you can chat to the animals or pick up a souvenir to take home.

Kungens Kurva

Bag a bargain not far from stockholm.

Kungens Kurva is a huge commercial area packed with popular shops selling everything from fashion and jewelry to home decor and sporting equipment.

Kungens Kurva is located just 6 miles away from central Stockholm and even if the easiest way to arrive is by automobile, the area is also well connected by local transportation from Hornstull. You'll find everything from sporting clothes and equipment at the Swedish chain Stadium or French store Decathalon to Swedish fashion at H&M or the latest American trends at Lexington, with plenty of dining options to enjoy at lunch.

Enjoy small-town charm, historic buildings and leafy parks

Enköping is a charming little town boasting idyllic green spaces and many historic buildings. The town is located 43 miles north west of Stockholm and can be reached in less than 40 minutes by train – great for a stress-free day trip from the big city. Stroll around flowery and leafy parks like Afzelius Place (Afzeliiplan) which is more than one hundred years old, the charming Drömparken (lit. Dream Park) or the petite little English Park (Engelska parken).

If you love history then be sure to check out the medieval castles and ruins of Husby Holme, Borgarringen and Gröneborg. Or if you prefer your castles to be stately and intact, then head to nearby Fiholm Castle or Ängsö Castle instead.

photo by Tokstollen ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Step back in time to a fairy tale town with historic castles

Visiting Mariefred is like taking a step back in time to a fairy tale town full of cobblestone streets, romantic castles and historic traditions. Mariefred is located by the shores of Lake Mälaren, around 45 miles to the west of Stockholm. The easiest way to get here is by automobile or if you don't feel like driving, a combination of trains and buses will get you here from the center of Stockholm in about an hour.

Visit the majestic, red Gripsholm Castle which is not only an impressive building in a beautiful location, but also home to the Swedish state's collection of portraits. While in the area, seize the chance to travel by sternwheeler or sample some modern art at the nearby POM Gallery.

Discover island idyll outside of the capital

Nynäshamn is the pearl of the archipelago and brimming with beautiful nature and historical sights. The island is located around 37 miles from central Stockholm. You can get here either by automobile or by commuter train. Stroll around the charming town and sample some public art – call in at the Nynäshamn Visitor Center for more information on where to find the various artworks.

Enjoy the sights of the archipelago with a crossing over the Baltic Sea or through the Draget Canal and linger for a while to admire the oldest lighthouse still standing in Sweden. For some living history that will captivate the entire family, stop at Tostesta Felag and check out the Iron Age dwelling.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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