The Stockholm Archipelago (Skärgården) is more than a geographic marvel — it's a destination filled with natural beauty, cultural richness, and endless possibilities for exploration. With over 30,000 islands, islets, and skerries, it stretches from the city of Stockholm out into the open Baltic Sea, offering something for every kind of traveler.
I haven’t personally visited the islands using Waxholmsbolaget or Strömma ferries, but I had the opportunity to witness the beauty of the archipelago during a cruise departing from Stockholm. Seeing the scattered islets, red cottages, and untouched coastline from the water left a lasting impression — and inspired this detailed guide for fellow travelers who want to explore it more deeply.
Whether you're planning your first trip to Sweden or seeking an off-the-beaten-path escape from the capital, this detailed guide will help you discover the character, experiences, and logistics of exploring one of Scandinavia’s most extraordinary regions.
“To truly understand the soul of Sweden's coast, you must lose yourself in the labyrinthine beauty of the Stockholm Archipelago. Each island whispers tales of history, nature, and a timeless way of life.”
Reaching the Islands
Reaching the Stockholm Archipelago is straightforward, there are reliable ferry network that connects the mainland to many of the islands.
🚢 Waxholmsbolaget – The Archipelago's Lifeline
Extensive Network: Waxholmsbolaget is operated by the Stockholm Region and connects the mainland with over 60 inhabited islands throughout the archipelago. It's the most comprehensive and reliable year-round ferry service for locals and travelers alike.
Timetables: Schedules vary seasonally. In summer (June–August), services are frequent and serve even the more remote islands. In winter, fewer routes operate, and travel times may be longer. Always double-check the official timetable before departure, as last-minute changes can occur due to weather.
Tickets:
- Purchase onboard using card (cash not accepted), online, or via the mobile site.
- SL travel cards are valid on select inner archipelago routes (e.g., Stockholm → Vaxholm), but not on longer routes to outer islands.
- Season passes and multi-day cards are available for island-hopping.
Boarding Locations: Most departures from Stockholm start at Strömkajen (in front of the Grand Hotel), with digital signage showing departure times. Other key piers include Nybroplan, Slussen, and Stavsnäs Vinterhamn.
Vessel Types: Waxholmsbolaget operates a fleet of classic archipelago vessels and modern boats. Some are ice-class ships that can navigate through frozen waters in winter.
Accessibility: Not all vessels are fully wheelchair accessible. If you require assistance, it's best to call customer service in advance to confirm suitability for your route.
Onboard Amenities: Most boats have heated indoor seating, restrooms, and outdoor viewing decks. Longer routes may include onboard cafés offering snacks and drinks.
Top Destinations Served: Waxholmsbolaget connects with popular and off-the-beaten-path islands such as:
- Vaxholm: A historic hub known as the "Capital of the Archipelago."
- Grinda: Great for nature lovers, beaches, and family outings.
- Möja: Ideal for cycling and quiet village life.
- Finnhamn: Known for hiking trails and serene views.
- Svartsö: Peaceful, with swimming spots and good accommodation options.
- Nåttarö, Gällnö, Ingmarsö – each offering unique atmospheres and activities.
Pro Tips: Morning and late afternoon ferries can fill quickly during peak summer weekends. Arrive early and queue at your departure gate. Bring a windbreaker or layers if sitting outside — it gets breezy!
⛴️ Cinderella Boats (Strömma) – For Day-Trippers
Seasonal Service: Cinderella Boats operate mainly from late spring through early autumn, with the most frequent departures during June to August.
Modern Comfort: These vessels are larger and faster than traditional ferries. Many have open decks, indoor lounges, onboard restrooms, and cafés for a comfortable journey.
Popular for Tourists: Routes include stops at well-loved islands like Sandhamn, Vaxholm, and Grinda, making it ideal for short day-trips or scenic getaways.
Excursions & Tours: Stromma offers curated experiences such as Archipelago Brunch Cruises, guided tours with audio commentary, and themed journeys like the Shrimp Cruise.
Booking & Timetables: Tickets can be booked online, at ticket counters near Strömkajen, or via the Stromma app. Timetables are available in English and Swedish, with real-time updates.
Departure Points: Most tours depart from Strömkajen or Nybroplan in central Stockholm. Boarding gates are clearly marked but can change — check signage on arrival.
Good to Know:
- Children under 6 usually travel free with a paying adult.
- Wheelchair access varies by boat — check details when booking.
- Commentary is typically offered in multiple languages.
- Cancellation policies allow rebooking in case of weather delays.
Double-check your departure quay in Stockholm (usually Strömkajen), and arrive early during high season. Ferry services may be delayed due to weather, especially in outer islands.
Recommended Apps for Your Archipelago Adventure
Using the right digital tools can dramatically enhance your archipelago experience — from finding ferries to navigating remote islands without cell signal.
Res i STHLM (SL App):
This is Stockholm’s official public transport app. It includes real-time schedules for subways, buses, and ferries — including Waxholmsbolaget-operated inner archipelago routes.
Features:
- Trip planner with ferry terminals and connections
- Live departure boards and real-time disruptions
- Buy SL tickets for ferries valid within SL zones
- Multi-language support (Swedish, English, more)
Waxholmsbolaget Live Map:
This web-based app allows you to track active ferry positions and access real-time schedules — essential for multi-island travelers.
Features:
- Live vessel positions (with map view)
- Current and upcoming stop times for all islands
- Weather-related delays and traffic notices
- Timetable PDFs for offline viewing
Island Highlights
Each island offers a different atmosphere, landscape, and experience:
Vaxholm: Often called the "Capital of the Archipelago," Vaxholm is a charming and historic town known for its 16th-century fortress, colorful wooden houses, seaside promenades, and harbor cafés. It's easy to access and ideal for a half-day trip.
Grinda: A nature lover’s paradise with protected forest areas, family-friendly swimming coves, and scenic walking trails. Grinda has a peaceful vibe with a local inn (Grinda Wärdshus), simple campsites, and beaches perfect for picnics.
Sandhamn: One of the most popular and lively islands, especially among sailors. Famous for its sandy beach Trouville, summer nightlife, and quaint shops. Sandhamn is also the starting point for many regattas and maritime events.
Möja: A great destination for those who enjoy quiet exploration by bicycle. Möja is dotted with small villages, local bakeries, and flower-lined gravel roads. It has a strong fishing culture and is ideal for travelers seeking a slower pace.
Utö: Located in the southern archipelago, Utö offers dramatic coastal cliffs, forested biking trails, and historical landmarks like an old iron mine. The island has a bakery, brewery, and a beautiful harbor area with restaurants.
Finnhamn: A lush, green island with rustic cabins, scenic campsites, and calm bays for kayaking. The island is quiet and car-free, with a small marina and trails that offer stunning views of the outer archipelago.
Svartsö: Known for its quiet countryside charm, swimming lakes, and a unique mix of forest and meadows. Svartsö is ideal for hiking, biking, and spotting wildlife. Local farms and small inns offer cozy stays.
Nåttarö: Features some of the archipelago’s best sandy beaches, including Barnens Bad (Children’s Beach). There’s also a tranquil pine forest, a mystical cave called Drottninggrottan (Queen’s Cave), and a camping ground close to the sea.
Ingmarsö: A peaceful, lesser-known island with meadows, hiking paths, and a few cozy cafés. Ingmarsö is popular among artists and writers seeking inspiration in solitude.
Gällnö: Retains a traditional Swedish rural atmosphere. Cows roam freely in pastures, and gravel paths lead through flower fields. The Gällnö café and hostel are great for travelers who want a mix of simplicity and authenticity.
Runmarö: This island boasts unique flora, including over 400 species of wildflowers. It’s popular among kayakers and those looking to experience untouched nature without crowds.
Fjäderholmarna: The closest island group to Stockholm — just a 30-minute ferry ride away. It’s perfect for a quick escape with craft shops, seafood restaurants, and cliffside sunbathing. Great for day-trippers.
Archipelago's Beauty
Savoring the Flavors and Embracing Local Culture
Experiencing the archipelago goes beyond the scenery — it’s deeply tied to the local way of life, culinary heritage, and community spirit that has thrived on these islands for generations.
Local Cuisine: Many island restaurants and inns serve traditional Swedish dishes with ingredients sourced from nearby waters and farms. Must-tries include smoked salmon, pickled herring (often served with sour cream and chives), new potatoes with dill, and archipelago rye bread. During summer, grilled fish and seafood buffets are especially popular.
Fika by the Sea: The Swedish tradition of fika — a relaxing coffee and pastry break — becomes even more special in a seaside setting. Many islands have charming cafés where you can sip strong coffee and enjoy cinnamon buns, cardamom rolls, or berry tarts with a view of the harbor.
Crafts & Culture: The archipelago has a strong artisan presence. Explore workshops and boutiques selling handmade ceramics, woven textiles, candles, and wooden crafts. On some islands like Utö and Gällnö, local markets pop up in summer, showcasing regional artistry and design.
Historical Sights: Beyond the well-known Vaxholm Fortress, you’ll find historic churches dating back to the 1600s, traditional red fishing cottages, ancient harbor warehouses, and iconic lighthouses that once guided ships through the maze of islets. Don’t miss the coastal museums on islands like Sandhamn and Möja.
Community Life: Islanders are often multigenerational residents, many of whom have deep roots in the fishing and boating trades. While quiet and private, locals are typically welcoming to respectful visitors — especially if you’re curious about their history, customs, or boatbuilding traditions. Strike up a conversation at a harbor café or village shop.
Look out for “dagens rätt” (daily special) on menus — it often features locally caught fish, seasonal vegetables, and freshly baked bread. It’s usually affordable and authentically Swedish.
