Discovering Sweden Beyond the City: Day Trips from Stockholm
Stockholm, with its plethora of sights and activities, offers enough to keep anyone occupied for over a week. Yet, there are times when you yearn to escape from the urban bustle and immerse yourself in the ‘real’ Sweden. Luckily, a variety of day trips await you just a short commute away, easily navigable by public transport. Set out early, and you’ll be back in downtown Stockholm in time for dinner.
Organized Day Trips from Stockholm
While public transport can get you to all the spots mentioned here, guided tours often add an extra layer of ease and enjoyment, especially for solo travelers. Below, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite organized day trips from Stockholm.
For history enthusiasts, a tour of Viking culture around Stockholm is a must. This experience includes visits to an ancient grave field, a Viking bridge, and Sigtuna, the country’s oldest city, founded during the Viking era.
If you’re looking to explore Drottningholm Palace, we highly recommend a guided tour. A knowledgeable guide will offer insights into the palace’s rich history and its royal residents. This tour combines a scenic boat ride, admission with skip-the-line entry, lunch, and an expert Blue Badge guide.
For a taste of nature, consider a tranquil day hike through the verdant woods surrounding Stockholm. You’ll reach a rocky plateau with stunning views, stopping to cook lunch over a campfire.
Water enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out on a kayaking adventure in the Stockholm archipelago. Paddle through picturesque islands and calm waterways, take a break on a beach for an organic lunch, and perhaps even brave a refreshing dip in the Baltic Sea before enjoying a classic Swedish ‘fika’ on your return.
If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider a private car transfer. With an English-speaking local driver, you can travel comfortably and even stop for sightseeing along the way.
1. Uppsala
Just a 40-minute train ride from Stockholm, Uppsala is one of Sweden’s oldest cities, home to a university founded over 530 years ago. Here, you can explore the Domkyrkan, Scandinavia’s largest cathedral, and the splendid Carolina Rediviva Library, filled with an impressive collection of books. A visit to Uppsala also includes a peek at its historic castle, which houses three museums and played a crucial role in the nation’s history.
Getting there: Regional trains leave from Stockholm’s Central Station, with travel time to Uppsala being around 40 minutes. For convenience, consider a day-trip package that includes a guided walking tour.
2. Skogskyrkogården
Though it’s a mere stone’s throw from the heart of Stockholm, Skogskyrkogården is an extraordinary half-day trip. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, established in the early 20th century, invites visitors to stroll among towering pine trees and intricate headstones, designed to offer solace and reflection.
Notably, Skogskyrkogården is the final resting place of the famed actress Greta Garbo—her grave can be found at plot 12A.
Getting there: From Gamla Stan, take the green subway line toward Farsta Strand and disembark at Skogskyrkogården. The journey takes about 15 minutes, and the park’s entrance is conveniently located nearby.
3. Nacka Nature Reserve
For those seeking leisure in nature, the Nacka Nature Reserve is a beautiful expanse featuring picturesque trails, swimming spots, and serene picnic areas amid lush forests and tranquil lakes.
To get the most out of your visit, join a guided tour that brings you to the park’s hidden gems, complete with a tasty organic lunch cooked over a campfire.
Getting there: For independent travelers, take the T-bana to Kärrtorp from Slussen, a journey of approximately 20 minutes followed by a 30-minute walk into the park.
4. Västerås
Though many tourists zip through Västerås on their way to the airport, this charming city—located around 100km northwest of Stockholm—offers delightful scenery and quaint streets along its central river.
In the summertime, the nearby beaches of Lake Mälaren provide perfect spots for a refreshing swim. History buffs will appreciate a visit to Anundshög, Sweden’s largest burial mound, dating back to about 900 AD, surrounded by ancient standing stones arranged to resemble ships.
Getting there: Regular trains link Stockholm’s main station and Västerås with a travel time of about an hour.
5. Boda Borg, Oxelösund
For something completely different, venture to Boda Borg in Oxelösund, roughly two hours from Stockholm. This engaging activity center challenges participants to solve a series of mental and physical puzzles in teams, reminiscent of The Crystal Maze show.
Getting there: The easiest route is by car, but if you prefer public transport, you can take a Flixbus to Nyköping and then switch to a local bus for the final leg.
6. Nyköping
Nyköping may not be the first destination that springs to mind for a day trip, but it’s a worthwhile stop, especially for those flying out of Stockholm Skavsta, just a short drive away. The medieval Nyköpingshus castle is one of the city’s main attractions, housing museum exhibits.
For those visiting in summer, the city’s guest harbor is a vibrant hub, popular among yachting enthusiasts and offering rentals for boats and bikes.
Getting there: Hourly trains leave Stockholm Central Station for Nyköping, taking about an hour.
7. Tyresta National Park
A mere 15 miles from downtown Stockholm, Tyresta National Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its network of trails winding through ancient woodlands. Whether you prefer hiking, kayaking, or enjoying a peaceful moment by the lakes, this park offers a respite from city life.
Getting there: Hop on a bus from Gullmarsplan T-bahn station to reach the park’s main entrance.
8. Tom Tits Experiment
If you’re traveling with kids and want an easy escape from the city, consider a visit to Tom Tits Experiment in Södertälje. This interactive science center features a wealth of experiments sure to engage both young minds and adults alike.
Getting there: Accessible via public transport, take a train from Stockholm Central Station to Södertälje Centrum, followed by a short ten-minute walk.
9. Drottningholm Palace
Arguably the most popular day-trip destination from Stockholm, Drottningholm Palace is not the king’s official residence, but it’s where he spends much of his time. Surrounded by lush gardens and boasting a historic theatre, the palace invites exploration year-round.
Getting there: In summer, consider a scenic boat ride, while for a cheaper alternative, the T-bana and bus combo will also take you there.
10. Sigtuna
Nestled along the shores of Lake Mälaren, Sigtuna stands as Sweden’s oldest town, adorned with ancient rune stones and 12th-century church ruins. Its charming cobbled streets and painted wooden cottages create an inviting backdrop for a leisurely stroll.
Getting there: Sigtuna is easily accessible via a combination of train and bus from Stockholm.
11. Mariefred
With narrow streets and quaint squares, the charming village of Mariefred is a delightful destination, anchored by the historic Gripsholms Castle. This impressive structure dates back to the 14th century and offers a fascinating glimpse into Sweden’s past.
Getting there: Travel from Stockholm’s Central Station to Läggesta, then take a bus to Mariefred, reaching your destination in under an hour.
12. Wolf Tracking
If you’re seeking a truly unique experience, consider a guided wolf tracking adventure in the wild. With expert guidance, you’ll follow tracks and listen for howls, enhancing your chances of observing these elusive creatures.
Getting there: Catch the T-bana from Slussen to Malmövägen Station, then a brief walk will lead you to your guide’s meeting point.
13. The Stockholm Archipelago
Escape the city with a day trip to the Stockholm Archipelago, a stunning realm of islands that beckons year-round. While visiting them all would take more time than a single day allows, several islands are quick to reach.
- Vaxholm: Easily accessible by boat, Vaxholm charms with its wooden buildings and an impressive fort with museum exhibits. Consider kayaking around the island for a unique perspective.
- Grinda: A bit further afield, Grinda offers serene beaches and nature trails, ideal for exploration.
- Finnhamn: A tranquil island perfect for an overnight stay, it features a lovely hostel and picturesque woodland paths.
- Sandön: In summer, this car-free island attracts day-trippers and boasts sandy beaches and a cozy hotel.
Getting there: Ferries and boats provide easy access to the archipelago, with specific details available for each island.
14. Birka
A short boat ride from Stockholm, Birka presents a well-preserved Viking settlement on the island of Björkö. As a significant trading hub during the Viking Age, it features a Viking village and an insightful museum.
Getting there: Boat tours to Birka depart from near Stockholm City Hall and include museum entry and site tours.
15. Helsinki
While not precisely a day trip—unless you opt for a flight—you can enjoy an overnight ferry journey from Stockholm to Helsinki for an extended exploration of Finland’s capital. Boats leave in the late afternoon and return the following morning.
Prices can be quite reasonable, especially if booked in advance.
16. Northern Lights Side Trips
Witnessing the northern lights in Stockholm is an exceptionally rare event. While a day trip to see the aurora is tempting, it requires early morning flights to northern cities like Luleå or Kiruna, followed by ventures into the countryside for the best visibility.
For a genuine chance to see this breathtaking phenomenon, spend several days in northern Sweden.
By integrating these adventures, your time in Stockholm can transcend the urban experience and delve into the heart of Sweden’s natural beauty and historical richness. Whether you prefer history, nature, or engaging activities, there’s something for everyone just a short journey from the capital.
