Stockholm Archipelago

Stockholms skärgård

A stunning natural wonder comprising thousands of islands and skerries stretching eastward from Stockholm into the Baltic Sea. Perfect for boat tours, kayaking, swimming, and experiencing pristine Scandinavian coastal beauty with charming island communities.

Things to do

• Kayaking among the skerries — Paddle through narrow channels between thousands of rocky islands, exploring hidden coves and pristine waters that form the archipelago's heart.
• Visit Vaxholm Fortress — Tour the 16th-century coastal fortification on Vaxholm island, which once protected Stockholm's harbor and now serves as a museum and cultural landmark.
• Swimming at Grinda island — Enjoy crystal-clear Baltic Sea swimming and sunbathing on the sandy beaches of this popular family-friendly island with cafes and accommodations.
• Guided archipelago boat tours — Take a narrated sightseeing cruise from Stockholm's harbor to experience multiple islands, learn local history, and spot wildlife including seals and sea eagles.
• Explore Fjäderholmarna islands — Visit these artisan islands just 20 minutes from central Stockholm, featuring craft galleries, glassblowing studios, restaurants, and natural swimming spots.
• Fish for pike and perch — Participate in traditional Swedish fishing expeditions in the archipelago's calm waters, either independently or with local guides who know the best spots.

Food to try

• Gravlax — Cured salmon prepared with dill, salt, and sugar in the traditional Scandinavian way, served cold as an appetizer with mustard sauce and rye bread.
• Bleak roe (löjrom) — Delicate fish roe from small local fish, traditionally served on crepes with sour cream and chives as a Swedish archipelago delicacy.
• Archipelago seafood platter — Fresh catches including local fish, shrimp, mussels, and herring prepared simply and served at island restaurants with views of the Baltic.
• Smoked fish — Traditionally smoked pike, perch, and eel prepared according to local methods, often available at island fish shops and restaurants.
• Cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) at island cafes — Freshly baked Swedish pastries served warm with coffee, a staple treat found at nearly every island cafe and bakery.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect fishing traditions and restricted areas — Many islands are private residences or protected nature reserves; always ask permission before landing and follow marked trails to preserve the archipelago's ecology.
• Embrace the island pace and seasonality — Summer (June-August) is peak season with most services open, while shoulder seasons offer solitude; many island businesses close during winter months.
• Use public ferries and boat services — The archipelago is connected by an extensive network of affordable public ferries operated by Waxholmsbolaget, which islanders and locals rely on daily.
• Practice friluftsliv (outdoor living) — Swedes embrace the cultural concept of spending leisure time in nature; camping, picnicking, and swimming in natural settings are central to island life and widely encouraged.