Stockholm is great with its historic charm and vibrant city life, but there are also plenty of fun day trips you can take from the city to explore more of what Sweden has to offer. There's something for everyone just a short car, train, or boat ride away.

History and Craft Beer in Uppsala

Hop on a train from Stockholm’s Central Station and you’ll find yourself in the heart of Uppsala in no time (about 40 minutes). The journey is straightforward, and trains run frequently, making it a hassle-free option for a day trip.

Dominating the city’s skyline, Uppsala domkyrka is a masterpiece of late 13th century Gothic architecture. Step inside to admire the stained-glass windows and the tranquil ambiance. Don’t forget to visit the royal tombs, including that of Gustav Vasa, one of Sweden’s most famous kings.

Gustavianum, right next to the cathedral, is the former main building of Uppsala University and now a museum. Here, you can explore artifacts from the university's collections, including scientific instruments, art, and relics from the Viking Age.  Please note that Gustavianum is currently closed for renovations (as of November 2023) and scheduled to reopen in spring 2024.  Check their website for updated information.

Uppsala has embraced the craft beer revolution. You can book a brewery tour and beer tasting at Uppsala Brygghus on their website. Churchill Arms, Taps Beer Bar, DomCraft, and William’s Pub are all great places to try a variety of local and international craft beers. Uppsala Hembryggareförening has a homebrewing festival every year in January called Belgoträff where visitors can try a variety of homebrewed Belgian-style beers and vote for the best ones.

Brunch enthusiasts should try Café Linné Konstantina or Café Varga, both of which offer a wide range of breakfast and lunch options in a cozy setting.

Step Back in Time in Sigtuna

Sigtuna, on the shores of Lake Mälaren, is Sweden's oldest town. It’s filled with medieval streets, ancient ruins, and inviting cafes. You can reach Sigtuna from Stockholm in about 45 minutes by car, or around an hour if you take the bus.

Take a walk and you’ll find narrow, winding streets lined with well-preserved wooden buildings. You can also visit medieval churches and ruins including Mariakyrkan and S:t Olafs kyrkoruin.

Dive deeper into Sigtuna's past with a visit to Sigtuna museum, where you can explore exhibitions showcasing artifacts from the Viking Age and learn about the town’s history and development over the centuries.

For brunch or lunch, Sigtuna offers a variety of cafes and restaurants with picturesque lakeside views. Tant Bruns Kaffestuga, located in one of Sigtuna’s oldest buildings, has a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and cakes. Enjoy your meal in the garden during the warmer months.

Sigtuna is also home to several arts and craft shops, where you can find unique handmade items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

Archipelago Adventures in Vaxholm

If you’re looking to explore the Stockholm archipelago, Vaxholm is the perfect destination. The journey to Vaxholm is itself a treat, with boat transport from Stockholm providing stunning views of the archipelago. The boat ride takes about an hour, or if you prefer to drive, you can reach Vaxholm in around 45 minutes.

Take some time to wander around Vaxholm’s streets and visit the boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops. It’s a great opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs and appreciate the local artistry.

Waxholms Hotell, on the waterfront, offers a fantastic brunch spread on Sundays.  Vaxholms Hembygdsgårds Café, open on weekends in May and daily in the summer, serves light lunches and pastries.

Located on a small island of its own near the town, the imposing Vaxholm Fortress once played a crucial role in defending Stockholm from naval attacks. Today, it’s a museum that’s open from May through August where you can explore the old barracks and enjoy panoramic views.

To truly appreciate the beauty of the archipelago, consider taking a boat tour from Vaxholm. There are various options available, ranging from short excursions to full-day adventures, providing a unique perspective of the surrounding islands and waters.

Mariefred, A Royal Retreat

To get to Mariefred, a town on the shores of Lake Mälaren, you can take a train to Läggesta station, which takes about an hour, and then take a bus from there.

It’s impossible to miss the red brick façade of Gripsholms slott when you arrive in Mariefred. Inside the castle, you’ll find well-preserved rooms that take you back in time to the 16th century and a vast collection of portraits and artifacts. Don’t miss the famous Lion of Gripsholm, a peculiar taxidermy that has become a quirky symbol of the castle.

Stroll through the castle’s gardens and grounds, and then take some time to wander the town to see the cottages, shops, and cafes. Mariefred also has a thriving local arts scene, with galleries showcasing the work of local artists. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.

If you have time, consider returning to Stockholm on the historic steamboat, which takes around 3.5 hours and offers stunning views along Lake Mälaren.

Seaside Serenity in Nynäshamn

Nynäshamn, at the southern tip of the Stockholm Archipelago, is the perfect spot for a rejuvenating day trip with its fresh sea air and relaxed vibe.  You can get there in about an hour by train from Stockholm Central Station.

Take a walk around the harbor, where you can enjoy views of boats bobbing in the water. Nynäshamn is also home to some lovely beaches, perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a refreshing swim. Nickstabadet and Hamnvik are two popular choices near the city center.

There are several scenic hiking trails in the area, including the Sörmlandsleden trail, which offers a range of routes suitable for all levels of hikers. Alternatively, you could rent a bike and explore the coastal landscapes, with plenty of picturesque spots to stop and enjoy a picnic.

If you’re a craft beer aficionado, you can book a brewery tour and beer tasting at Nynäshamns Ångbryggeri on their website. There are also several pubs and restaurants in Nynäshamn that serve a variety of craft beers, such as Eight Friends Inn and Restaurang Kroken.

Fjäderholmarna, The Gateway to the Archipelago

Fjäderholmarna, the archipelago island closest to Stockholm, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Boat transport from Stockholm only takes about 25 minutes.

The island is small and there are plenty of walking paths that take you through lush greenery and rocky outcrops. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb up to the higher points of the island for panoramic views of the surrounding archipelago.

Visitors to Fjäderholmarna can explore art studios and craft shops offering everything from glassware and pottery to textiles and paintings. Spend some time wandering around, and you may even catch local artists at work.

Fjäderholmarnas Bryggeri’s Brewpub has a great selection of their own beers, and you can buy flights so that you can try a variety of different ones.  They’re open from the beginning of May through mid-September.  Their seating fills up fast, so if you’re interested in visiting, try to take the boat that arrives on the island just after they open.

Stockholm is surrounded by options for incredible day trip destinations – there’s a world of adventure waiting just beyond the city limits. Check out sl.se for information on public transportation in Stockholm and the surrounding area and stromma.com for information on boat trips in the archipelago, including transport to Vaxholm and Fjäderholmarna and a steamboat tour to or from Mariefred. Enjoy your travels!