Stockholm is a vibrant and beautiful city, but there’s much more to explore beyond its urban streets. Just a short distance from the city center, you’ll find charming villages, historical landmarks, and stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re looking to dive into Swedish history, enjoy the beauty of nature, or simply escape the city for a day, Stockholm offers plenty of day trip options that are easy to access.
Here’s a guide to the best day trips from Stockholm, perfect for travelers wanting to experience a different side of Sweden while staying close to the capital.
1. Drottningholm Palace
Travel time: 30 minutes by boat or metro and bus
Why visit: Sweden’s best-preserved royal palace and UNESCO World Heritage site
Drottningholm Palace is one of the most popular day trips from Stockholm, and for good reason. This magnificent palace, located on the island of Lövön, is the private residence of the Swedish royal family. The palace, dating back to the 17th century, is a perfect example of European architecture and offers beautifully maintained gardens to explore.
You can tour the palace’s grand rooms, which are filled with art, tapestries, and historical furniture. Don’t miss the Chinese Pavilion, a unique gift from King Adolf Fredrik to Queen Lovisa Ulrika in the 1700s. The palace park, with its manicured lawns and fountains, is the perfect spot for a relaxing walk after exploring the interiors.
How to get there: Take a ferry from Stadshuskajen (City Hall Quay) or the metro to Brommaplan, then a bus to Drottningholm.
2. Sigtuna
Travel time: 1 hour by train and bus
Why visit: Sweden’s oldest town with charming streets and historical sites
For a step back in time, head to Sigtuna, Sweden’s oldest town, founded in the 10th century. Sigtuna is a quaint town full of history, with its well-preserved medieval churches, Viking rune stones, and cobbled streets lined with traditional wooden houses.
The Sigtuna Museum is a great place to start, where you can learn about the town’s Viking past and its importance as an early Christian settlement. Wander through the picturesque streets and visit the ruins of St. Olaf’s Church, a reminder of the town’s medieval religious history. Sigtuna also offers beautiful views over Lake Mälaren, making it a peaceful and scenic destination for a day trip.
How to get there: Take the commuter train from Stockholm Central Station to Märsta, then a bus to Sigtuna.
3. Vaxholm
Travel time: 1 hour by ferry or bus
Why visit: Charming island town and gateway to the Stockholm Archipelago
Vaxholm, often called the gateway to the Stockholm Archipelago, is a perfect destination for a relaxing day trip. This picturesque town is known for its colorful wooden houses, cozy cafés, and stunning views of the surrounding islands. One of the highlights of Vaxholm is the Vaxholm Fortress, a historical fort that played a crucial role in defending Stockholm from naval invasions. You can take a boat out to the fortress, explore its museum, and learn about Swedish military history.
In the town itself, stroll along the harbor, visit local shops, and enjoy a traditional Swedish fika in one of the many cafés. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you can even hop on a ferry from Vaxholm and explore more of the Stockholm Archipelago.
How to get there: Take a ferry from Strömkajen or a bus from Tekniska Högskolan to Vaxholm.
4. Uppsala
Travel time: 45 minutes by train
Why visit: University town with a rich history and cultural landmarks
Uppsala is one of Sweden’s oldest and most historically significant cities. Home to Uppsala University, the oldest university in Scandinavia, Uppsala has a youthful, academic atmosphere combined with centuries of history. The city is best known for its impressive Uppsala Cathedral, the largest in Scandinavia, which dates back to the 13th century.
Visit the Gustavianum Museum, which features Viking artifacts and university history, and take a stroll through Uppsala Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city. Another must-see is the Botanical Garden, a peaceful place to relax, especially in the warmer months. For history buffs, a visit to Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala), just outside the city, is a fascinating trip back to the Viking era, with burial mounds and ancient artifacts.
How to get there: Take a direct train from Stockholm Central Station to Uppsala.
5. Tyresta National Park
Travel time: 45 minutes by bus
Why visit: Nature reserve with hiking trails, lakes, and ancient forests
For nature lovers, Tyresta National Park is a perfect escape from the city. Located just a short distance from Stockholm, this national park offers over 55 kilometers of hiking trails that wind through forests, past lakes, and over rocky landscapes. Tyresta is home to some of Sweden’s oldest trees, and you can explore the pristine wilderness, spot wildlife, and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
The park is ideal for hiking, with well-marked trails suitable for all levels. Bring a picnic and spend the day by one of the lakes, or stop by the Tyresta Village to learn more about traditional Swedish rural life.
How to get there: Take a bus from Stockholm Central to Tyresta By.
6. Mariefred and Gripsholm Castle
Travel time: 1 hour by train and bus
Why visit: Historical castle and charming lakeside town
Mariefred is a small, picturesque town on the shores of Lake Mälaren, best known for its impressive Gripsholm Castle. The castle, built in the 16th century, is a beautiful example of Swedish Renaissance architecture and is home to the Swedish National Portrait Gallery. Inside the castle, you’ll find portraits of Swedish royalty and historical figures, as well as beautifully preserved rooms showcasing centuries of history.
The town of Mariefred itself is a delightful place to explore, with cobbled streets, colorful houses, and local cafés. You can take a relaxing walk along the lake or visit the nearby Munktell Museum to learn about Swedish industrial history.
How to get there: Take a train from Stockholm Central Station to Läggesta, then a bus or short taxi ride to Mariefred.
Conclusion
Exploring beyond Stockholm is a fantastic way to experience more of Sweden’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming small towns. Whether you’re interested in royal palaces, Viking history, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, these day trips offer a little something for everyone. So, if you’re spending time in Stockholm, be sure to set aside a day to visit one of these nearby gems and get a deeper look into the beauty and culture of Sweden!
