After immersing yourself in the things to do in Stockholm, from wandering through the historic streets of Gamla Stan to marveling at the modern art in Fotografiska, day trips from Stockholm offer a refreshing escape into the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of Sweden. These excursions extend your exploration beyond the city limits, connecting you with the serene archipelago, historic towns, and lush countryside that surround the capital.
Venturing beyond Stockholm, you’re introduced to a wider array of things to do in Sweden, where ancient castles stand tall among dense forests and tranquil lakes. Each journey from the city is a doorway to experiencing Sweden’s natural beauty, vibrant history, and the warm hospitality of its people.
Selecting where to stay in Stockholm is crucial for travelers aiming to capture the essence of the city while maintaining the flexibility to embark on these day trips. A well-located accommodation provides the perfect balance, offering easy access to Stockholm’s attractions and seamless departures for your Swedish adventures.
Discover Best Day Trips from Stockholm, Sweden
1. Uppsala, Sweden
Uppsala, a city rich in history and culture, is home to the prestigious Uppsala University and the impressive Uppsala Cathedral. Explore the historic city center, botanical gardens, and the Viking burial mounds at Gamla Uppsala.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Uppsala Cathedral, Uppsala University, Gamla Uppsala
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Uppsala Cathedral: Free (Donations welcome)
- Gamla Uppsala Museum: $8
- Uppsala Botanical Garden: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Uppsala Castle, Fyris River, Linnaeus Garden
Travel Tip: Visit during Walpurgis Eve on April 30th to experience a traditional Swedish festival with bonfires and celebrations.
2. Sigtuna, Sweden
Sigtuna, Sweden’s oldest town, offers a charming medieval atmosphere with well-preserved buildings, ruins, and runestones. The town’s quaint streets, local shops, and beautiful lakeside setting make it a delightful day trip destination.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car or 1 hour by public transport
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Public Transport
Main Attractions: Medieval buildings, runestones, Lake Mälaren
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Sigtuna Museum: $7
- Sigtuna Church: Free (Donations welcome)
- Runestones: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lake Mälaren, St. Olof’s Church Ruins, Sigtuna Marina
Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk along Lake Mälaren and explore the local handicraft shops for unique souvenirs.
3. Mariefred and Gripsholm Castle, Sweden
Mariefred is a picturesque small town featuring Gripsholm Castle, known for its stunning collection of portraits and beautiful gardens. The town itself offers a peaceful retreat with quaint streets and lakeside views.
Distance: Approximately 65 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car or train
Transportation: Train, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Gripsholm Castle, Mariefred town, Lake Mälaren
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Gripsholm Castle: $12
- Mariefred Church: Free (Donations welcome)
- Lake Mälaren: Free
Budget: Approximately $25-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Gripsholm Castle Gardens, Mariefred Harbor, Hjorthagen Nature Reserve
Travel Tip: Consider taking the historic steam train for a unique journey to Mariefred during the summer months.
4. Vaxholm, Sweden
Vaxholm is a central hub in the Stockholm archipelago, known for its charming wooden houses, boutiques, and the impressive Vaxholm Fortress. It’s perfect for experiencing authentic archipelago life and enjoying fresh seafood.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by boat or bus
Transportation: Boat or Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Vaxholm Fortress, wooden houses, archipelago life
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Vaxholm Fortress: $10
- Vaxholm Church: Free (Donations welcome)
- Archipelago Boat Tour: $15
Budget: Approximately $30-$70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Vaxholm Harbor, Kastellet, Waxholms Strand
Travel Tip: Take a boat tour around the archipelago from Vaxholm to see more of the stunning island scenery.
5. Sandhamn, Sweden
Sandhamn, located on the edge of the Stockholm archipelago, is a popular sailing destination with sandy beaches and a vibrant marina. The island offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and a lively atmosphere.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by ferry
Transportation: Ferry
Main Attractions: Sandy beaches, vibrant marina, nature reserve
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Nature Reserve: Free
- Sandhamn Museum: $6
- Marina Access: Free
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Sandhamn Beach, Sandhamn Harbor, Nature Reserve Trails
Travel Tip: Explore the nature reserve on the island for a serene experience and enjoy the local seafood delicacies.
6. Birka, Sweden
Birka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Björkö Island, is known as the first city of Sweden and an important Viking Age trading center. Visitors can explore archaeological sites, a museum, and reconstructed Viking buildings.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by ferry
Transportation: Ferry
Main Attractions: Viking archaeological sites, Birka Museum, reconstructed Viking village
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Birka Museum: $15
- Guided Viking Tour: $10
- Ferry to Birka: $25
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Björkö Island, Viking Village, Lake Mälaren
Travel Tip: Join a guided tour to learn about the Viking history and culture of Birka.
7. Drottningholm Palace, Sweden
Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Swedish royal family, is renowned for its beautiful architecture, theater, and historic gardens. The palace and its Chinese Pavilion are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Distance: Approximately 15 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by bus or boat
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Boat
Main Attractions: Drottningholm Palace, Palace Theatre, Chinese Pavilion
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Drottningholm Palace: $15
- Chinese Pavilion: $10
- Palace Theatre: $12
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Drottningholm Gardens, Lake Mälaren, Lovön Island
Travel Tip: Don’t miss a performance at the Drottningholm Palace Theatre, especially if you’re interested in historical operas and plays.
8. Artipelag, Sweden
Artipelag is an art venue located in a stunning archipelago setting, offering a combination of art exhibitions, nature walks, and excellent dining options. The venue is known for its modern architecture and scenic views of the sea.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Travel Time: About 20 minutes by car or 1 hour by public transport
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Public Transport
Main Attractions: Art exhibitions, nature walks, modern architecture
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Artipelag Exhibitions: $15
- Nature Trails: Free
- Guided Tour: $10
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Artipelag’s Coastal Path, Baggensfjärden Bay, Pine Forest Trails
Travel Tip: After exploring the art exhibitions, take a walk along the nature trails surrounding the venue for a peaceful retreat.
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Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/stockholm-l50?activity_type=dayTrip
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