Discover Sweden with these day trips from Stockholm

You’ve probably come to Stockholm, enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of the city, walked its cobbled streets and maybe even had your picture taken with the guards of the Royal Palace. Stockholm is great, but Sweden has so much more to offer just a short drive away.

If you’re asking, “How many days in Stockholm is enough?”, we recommend spending 3-4 days in the city. However, if you have more time, like a full week, don’t just stay in the capital! That’s your cue to check out some amazing day trips from Stockholm. These trips are perfect for solo travellers who want to explore other parts of the city. They offer a combination of history, nature and Swedish charm without costing too much. Get ready to discover incredible cities, towns and islands!

Historical and cultural escapes

Sweden has a rich history and just a short drive from central Stockholm you can immerse yourself in Viking stories, ancient university towns and royal heritage.

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Uppsala: the academic and spiritual heart of Sweden

First on the list of day trips is Uppsala, a city full of history and youthful energy. As one of Sweden’s oldest cities, Uppsala is known for its prestigious university and impressive cathedral. If you’re ready to explore a different part of Sweden, be sure to visit.

Why it’s worth the trip: Uppsala offers a great combination of historical significance and a lively student atmosphere. You can wander around the ancient monuments, soak up the academic atmosphere and enjoy the picturesque Fyris River that runs through the city. It’s a true Swedish experience.

Uppsala is closely linked to the history of the Vikings. In Viking times it was an important religious and political centre and Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala) was important for Nordic pagan rituals. The city served as the spiritual centre of Sweden, where the Vikings gathered to worship their gods.

How to get there: It’s very easy! Just hop on the train from Stockholm Central Station and you’ll be in Uppsala in 40 minutes. It’s a direct, affordable and scenic journey that makes for one of the most convenient day trips from Stockholm.

Estimated cost: A one-way train ticket costs approximately SEK 120-150. Admission to Uppsala Cathedral is free, but a guided tour costs about SEK 70-100.

Free activities in Uppsala:

• Botanical Gardens: Linnaeus Garden: You can take a free walk through the beautiful Linnaeus Garden in Uppsala, created by the famous botanist Carl Linnaeus.
• Take a scenic walk alongthe Fyris River through the old town and discover Uppsala’s rich history and charming streets.

Things to do in Uppsala:

• Things to do in Uppsala: Uppsala Cathedral: It’s the largest cathedral in Scandinavia and it’s a truly breathtaking sight. Its tall towers dominate the city skyline and inside you’ll see centuries of Swedish history, including the tombs of kings and notables like Carl Linnaeus.
• Uppsala University. Historic buildings, such as the Carolina Rediviva Library, are impressive and ooze intellectual energy.
• Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala). It was once an important centre from the pre-Viking and Viking era, with ancient burial mounds and an interesting museum. It’s where Swedish history really began, and it’s a unique place to explore. It’s easy to get there by local bus from central Uppsala.

Sigtuna: Sigtuna: Sweden’s oldest town and Viking vibes

Just a short drive from Uppsala (and easy to combine for a day’s adventure) you’ll find Sigtuna, often considered Sweden’s oldest town. This charming, picturesque town on the shores of Lake Mälaren feels like you’ve stepped into a storybook with its colourful wooden houses and ancient rune stones.

Why it’s worth coming here: Sigtuna offers a glimpse into Sweden’s Viking and early medieval past. It’s small enough to explore on foot, so it’s perfect for a relaxed day trip. The atmosphere is very peaceful and the history is palpable.

Historical background: founded around 980 AD, Sigtuna was an important Viking settlement. It became the first capital of Sweden and is significant as one of the oldest cities in the country. The city also contains a number of rune stones – ancient inscriptions that tell stories about Viking life and the city’s origins.

Free activities in Sigtuna:

• Explore the old town: the medieval streets of Stora Gatan are freely accessible and offer a glimpse into Sweden’s past.
• Lake Mälaren.

How to get there: Take a trip to Mähren: From Stockholm, take the suburban train to Märsta station (about 40 minutes) and then take the local bus (570 or 575) directly to Sigtuna (about 20 minutes). It’s an easy journey that allows you to see a bit of the Swedish countryside.

Estimated cost.

Things to do in Sigtuna:

• Stora Gatan (Main Street): Main Street (Main Gatan) is the heart of Sigtuna. Stroll down Sweden’s oldest street, lined with delightful shops, cafes and restaurants. It’s perfect for enjoying a fika (Swedish coffee break) and soaking up the atmosphere.
• Runestone: Sigtuna is home to many ancient runestones, remnants of Viking heritage. Keep an eye out for them as you explore the town; they tell fascinating stories about the town’s ancient inhabitants.
• Church ruins: St. Olof, St. Per and St. Lars, which add to the city’s historical charm.
• Lake views. In summer, you can even take a boat trip on the lake.

Drottningholm Palace: A royal day out

For a taste of royal life, be sure to take a day trip to Drottningholm Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the private residence of the Swedish royal family and is often referred to as the “Swedish Versailles” It’s a spectacular experience that’s surprisingly easy to reach from Stockholm.

Why it’s worth the trip: Drottningholm offers breathtaking architecture, beautiful gardens and a glimpse into Swedish royal history. It’s a truly majestic place to explore, and getting there is part of the fun.

Historical background: Drottningholm Palace was originally built in the late 16th century and served as a royal residence for generations. It is particularly significant as the residence of the current Swedish royal family. The palace gardens are among the best preserved Baroque gardens in Europe.

How to get there: The most popular and beautiful way to reach Drottningholm Palace is by boat from Stadshuskajen (Town Hall Quay) in central Stockholm. The boat ride across Lake Mälaren takes about an hour and offers beautiful views. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Brommaplan and then a short bus ride to the palace.

The boat ride to Drottningholm costs approximately SEK 140 each way and admission to the palace and gardens ranges from SEK 120 to 160.

Free activities at Drottningholm:

• DrottningholmPublic Gardens: The Baroque gardens, a peaceful retreat within the royal grounds, can be explored for free.

What to do at Drottningholm Castle:

• Drottnington Palace: Take a tour of the lavish interiors, including grand halls and royal apartments. Guided tours are often available and are recommended to learn about its history.
• Drottningholm Palace Theatre: This incredibly well-preserved 18th-century theatre is still functioning today. You can take a guided tour to see its unique stage technology and original sets.
• Palace Gardens. They are perfect for an easy stroll, especially on sunny days.
• The Chinese Pavilion. It is a pleasant surprise that represents a different architectural style.

Island adventures and nature escapes

The Stockholm Archipelago is a vast network of more than 30,000 islands, islets and rocks that extend into the Baltic Sea. It is a nature lover’s paradise and several of the islands are ideal for day trips from Stockholm. This landscape close to the city embodies what one dreams of in Sweden!

Vaxholm: Gateway to the archipelago

If you want to be closest to Stockholm and experience a true archipelago, Vaxholm is the place to be. Known as the “capital of the archipelago”, this charming island town is easily accessible and the perfect introduction to island life.

Why it’s worth coming here: Vaxholm combines quaint wooden houses, a historic fortress and stunning sea views. It has a relaxed seaside atmosphere that is a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Exploring the archipelago:

• If you love nature, you can kayak into the waters around the islands to birdwatch, especially in places like Grinda.
• Hiking.

How to get there: Vaxholm is best reached by ferry from Strömkajen, which is in central Stockholm. The boat ride takes about an hour and is very scenic, winding through the inner archipelago. It’s a wonderful day trip in itself! You can also take a bus from the Tekniska Högskolan metro station.

Estimated cost: ferry tickets to Vaxholm cost approximately 130-180 SEK depending on the route.

Things to do in Vaxholm:

• Vaxholm Fortress: This imposing 16th-century fortress once protected Stockholm from maritime threats. You can take a small ferry to the fortress island and visit its museum to learn about its strategic role.
• Explore the city. You’ll find many cafes and restaurants where you can dine or enjoy a fika with a view.
• Take astroll along the waterfront, enjoy the fresh sea air and watch the boats pass by.

Other gems of the archipelago: Grinda and Sandhamn

While Vaxholm is very accessible, if you’re feeling a little more adventurous and want to venture deeper into the Stockholm archipelago, consider a day trip to islands like Grinda or Sandhamn. These require a longer ferry journey but offer unspoilt nature and a real escape.

• Grinda: Known for its beautiful nature reserve, sandy beaches and hiking trails. In summer it is popular for swimming and picnicking.
• Sandhamn: A more luxurious island that is known for its yachting community and lively harbour. It’s great for people watching, enjoying a meal by the water or exploring the rugged beauty of the island.

Estimated cost.

Getting there: Ferries to Grindu and Sandhamn depart from Strömkajen or other terminals on the archipelago in Stockholm. Check ferry schedules in advance as journey times can vary (1.5-3 hours depending on the island and route).

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Practical tips for day trips to Stockholm

To make your day trips from Stockholm run smoothly and be budget-friendly, keep these tips in mind:

• Transportation is key: Sweden’s public transport system is excellent. Trains, buses and ferries are reliable and often scenic. If you are planning multiple trips, consider getting a travel card (such as the SL card for Stockholm and the surrounding area) or simply buy individual tickets. Many journeys are covered by normal public transport fares, not just special tourist routes.
• Downloadthe SL app to help you navigate Stockholm’s public transport. You can also use apps like “Ferry Guide” to check ferry schedules on the archipelago. Consider using the Stockholm Pass, which gives you discounts on attractions and transport.
• Pack smart: Even in summer, the weather can change quickly, especially by the water. Layers are your friend! Comfortable walking shoes are a must as you’ll be exploring a lot. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle.
• Food and Drink: While there are cafes and restaurants in all of these places, packing your own lunch and snacks will save you a lot of money. Find a scenic spot for a picnic – it’s a classic Swedish move!
• Check opening times: Especially for palaces and museums, always double-check their opening times and any specific tour times before you go. Some places may have shortened opening hours or be closed on certain days, especially during the off-peak season.

Are you ready to explore other parts of Stockholm?

Well, here you go! Stockholm is an amazing city, but don’t let your Swedish adventure end there. With these spectacular day trips, you can easily expand your exploration, delve deeper into Sweden’s rich history, soak up the breathtaking nature here, and experience the charm of smaller towns and islands. Whether you’re interested in Viking sagas, royal mansions, or island hopping, you’re sure to enjoy a day trip from Stockholm.

Grab your backpack, charge your phone and get ready to discover even more of what Sweden has to offer. Happy travels!

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