Stockholm Archipelago Secrets: The Best Islands to Explore in 2025
When most travelers think of Sweden, iconic sights like Stockholm’s vibrant city life, the breathtaking Northern Lights in Lapland and the country’s pristine natural landscapes come to mind. But there’s a hidden gem that many miss: the Stockholm Archipelago — a stunning collection of thousands of islands and islets waiting to be explored.
From uninhabited islands offering serene nature escapes to charming archipelago towns dotted with traditional Swedish cottages, this unique region is a must-visit for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Sweden beyond the city.
If you have a few extra days during your Stockholm trip, let me guide you through 5 magical islands in the Stockholm Archipelago that perfectly capture the beauty and charm of this incredible destination.
🌿 Grinda – Discover Tranquility and Swedish Charm
Visiting Grinda feels like pressing pause on the World — a rare moment of calm and magic. For me, stepping onto this island was both surreal and wonderful, as if I’d landed in a peaceful, isolated haven surrounded by nature’s beauty.
The fastest boat from Strandvägen in Stockholm gets you to Grinda in under 2 hours, and the journey itself is part of the experience. As you cruise through the archipelago, you’ll be treated to stunning views of countless islands, charming wooden cottages, quaint docks and colorful boats — all the elements that make this region uniquely enchanting.
When you finally arrive on Grinda, you’ll be greeted by unspoiled nature that invites you to unwind and fully embrace the moment. Surrounded by lush forests, open meadows, and sparkling waters, Grinda offers a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature and escape the hustle of everyday life.
The island of Grinda is a beautifully isolated place to explore in Stockholm’s archipelago
If you’d like to spend the night on Grinda, there are some accommodation options to choose from. In addition to the island’s charming hotel, you’ll also find a cabin village with 27 cozy cottages offering beautiful water views, a rustic lodge and even a campsite for those who prefer a more adventurous, close-to-nature experience.
With delicious food served at Grinda Wärdshus — a restaurant that’s been voted one of the best in the Stockholm archipelago — plus saunas available for rent and calm waters perfect for a swim on long summer evenings, staying overnight on Grinda is truly a dream for nature lovers.
While on the island, visitors can choose to relax on sun-drenched cliffs, paddle around the island by kayak or take peaceful forest walks. Whether you’re looking for adventure or pure relaxation, Grinda offers endless ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the Stockholm Archipelago.
Grinda is such a special place to visit in Stockholm’s archipelago
Make sure to check their website before you go, to stay on top of all the fun events and activities available at different times of the year.
🌲 Gällnö – Rustic Charm & Untouched Nature Just Outside Stockholm
Gällnö is one of the most peaceful and beautifully remote islands in the Stockholm Archipelago. It’s a true hidden gem that makes you feel like you’ve arrived at the calmest place on Earth.
Located about 1.5 hours by boat from central Stockholm, Gällnö is perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the untouched Swedish nature the archipelago is known for.
And just like the journey to Grinda, the boat ride to Gällnö is part of the magic — you’ll pass picturesque seaside cottages, cliffside cabins and graceful sailing boats gliding through the water. On a sunny summer day, it’s fair to say the journey itself is half the fun.
Views on the boat ride to Gällnö
When you arrive on Gällnö, you’re immediately greeted by a charming red wooden building that serves as the island’s ferry waiting room. Decorated with old tools, fishing gear, and vintage items scattered in a delightfully rustic way, it feels like stepping into a living postcard. A large wooden sign proudly displaying “Gällnö” adds the final touch — a warm and memorable welcome to this peaceful archipelago island.
Grinda is one of my favorite islands in Stockholm’s archipelago
Much less touristic than Vaxholm or other popular islands in the Stockholm Archipelago, Gällnö offers a more authentic and untouched island experience. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a slower pace, peaceful surroundings and a glimpse of traditional archipelago life that hasn’t yet been discovered by the masses.
Despite its remote feel, Gällnö offers just the right amount of amenities — a small café, a local store and a laid-back bar — providing comfort without taking away from the island’s natural charm.
If you want to spend the night, you’ll find a cozy hostel housed in a historic red building from 1904, which served as the island’s school until the 1960s. Staying here is a unique way to connect with the island’s History while enjoying its peaceful, car-free environment.
If you’re looking for a truly unique place to stay on Gällnö, you’ll love the island’s quirky and memorable accommodation options.
One is Hotel Frans August — officially the smallest hotel in the entire Stockholm Archipelago, with just one room! Intimate, peaceful, and surrounded by nature, it’s the perfect getaway for anyone seeking privacy and charm.
Even more original is the third option: three tiny houses on wheels, offering a one-of-a-kind glamping-style experience. The most iconic of them is Fransvagnen — a micro-cabin measuring just 2 square meters, where the only thing that fits is a cozy bed. What makes it special? The side of the cabin can be opened to reveal the stunning natural surroundings, letting you fall asleep to birdsong and fresh air.
For those visiting Gällnö on a day trip, the best way to explore is simple: walk, wander and soak in the island’s peaceful atmosphere. In the summer season, you’ll likely see families swimming, picnicking and making the most of the sunshine — because in Sweden, everyone knows how precious the warm days are.
During high season, don’t miss Gällnö Bar, where you can enjoy a relaxed meal by the water. You can also stop by Gällnö’s tiny trading booth, which sells local goodies like fruit, fresh bread, dairy, and even fish and meat — a charming reminder of how alive and vibrant the Stockholm Archipelago becomes in the summer.
☀️ Visiting Off-Season?
Expect a completely different experience. Only a few residents live on Gällnö year-round, and once the summer ends, the island becomes a peaceful and quiet escape. Most services and food spots close for the season, so it’s a good idea to pack a picnic. Find a quiet meadow or shoreline, settle down, and enjoy a moment of stillness in the Swedish wilderness — a rare kind of retreat from the modern world.
🚤 Time to Head Back?
When you’ve had your fill of peaceful island life, it’s time to return to the boat pier for your ride back to Stockholm. But here’s an important tip:
📣 REMEMBER: Ferries to and from Gällnö don’t run frequently — especially outside summer. Be at the pier on time or you risk being stuck overnight. Double-check the schedule through the official links below and decide in advance which ferry you’ll be taking back.
⚓ Sandhamn – A Vibrant Archipelago Gem Full of Charm
If you’re looking to explore another beautiful and popular destination in Stockholm’s archipelago, Sandhamn should definitely be on your list.
Getting there is quite easy: boats depart regularly from both Stockholm’s city center and Stavsnäs, especially during the summer when services run more frequently. In less than two hours, you’ll find yourself far out in the Baltic Sea, surrounded by endless water and stunning island views.
Ready to explore? Let’s go!
As I mentioned earlier, a trip to any island in the Stockholm archipelago is about much more than just the destination — the journey itself is part of the magic. Watching the picturesque archipelago islands glide by as you sail toward your chosen spot is an experience you won’t forget. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a classic Swedish fika right on the boat’s café — a perfect way to relax and soak in the atmosphere as you head to Sandhamn.
On your journey to Sandhamn, you’ll navigate through narrow channels winding between islands, passing charming colorful houses perched on rocky cliffs — a classic sight that captures the true spirit of the Stockholm archipelago.
You’ll likely fall in love with the scenery before you even step foot on the island.
Once you arrive in Sandhamn, it’s easy to see why it’s considered a true gem of the archipelago. Equally popular as Vaxholm but located much further out, Sandhamn offers visitors the chance to explore one of the most stunning and authentic islands in the entire Stockholm archipelago.
Beautiful views when arriving to Sandhamn island in Stockholm’s archipelago
During the summer months, Sandhamn buzzes with life as sailors and vacationers arrive on their boats to escape the city’s hustle and soak up the island’s relaxed atmosphere. In contrast, visiting during the low season reveals a different side of the archipelago — the island goes into a peaceful hibernation, much like the rest of Sweden, but its stunning beauty remains undeniable.
I had the chance to visit Sandhamn in early autumn, just after the busy summer season had ended. The quiet, crowd-free island felt almost like a hidden treasure, making the experience even more magical. It was as if we had the entire island to ourselves — such a rare and special feeling.
Arriving at Sandhamn, visitors are welcomed by a charming wooden pier right next to the marina, where boats gently sway in the water — one of the island’s most picturesque views. Just across the street, you’ll find quaint shops and a kiosk by the pier, perfect spots to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
When you’re ready to explore, take a leisurely stroll west along the waterfront. You’ll soon reach a lovely area near the popular restaurant Pentaboden, where several classic red wooden houses await.
Among them is Sandhamn’s Museum, founded in 1966 by a group of passionate locals. The museum is open daily during the high season and offers fascinating insights into island life. Even if it’s closed, the rustic charm of the building and the breathtaking views of Sandhamn’s skyline from this spot make it a must-see for photographers and visitors alike.
Sandhamn’s museum is located in a very picturesque red wooden house
After visiting the museum, the best way to experience Sandhamn is simply to wander and see what treasures you stumble upon.
Have you ever heard the song “Where the Streets Have No Name”? That’s Sandhamn in a nutshell. While the main streets have names, many of the smaller lanes don’t — so much so that houses along those streets don’t have traditional addresses. Instead, they’re simply numbered.
As unusual as it sounds, this adds to Sandhamn’s unique charm and creates the perfect atmosphere to explore freely. Lose yourself in the island’s quaint houses, hidden corners, winding paths and peaceful beaches — each discovery feels like a special, off-the-beaten-path experience.
The streets of Sandhamn are full of traditional red wooden houses
But if you’re worried about wandering aimlessly and missing out on the island’s highlights, don’t worry! There are some great spots to use as landmarks.
One of the most popular is Kvarnberget, a scenic cliff offering stunning panoramic views of Sandhamn’s charming streets below. From this vantage point, you can also admire the sparkling waters, boats drifting by, nearby islands and even Fläskberget Beach — a favorite spot for kitesurfers catching the wind.
Kvarnberget is the perfect place to get a good view of Sandhamn
Heading back down to the unnamed streets, you can make your way to the previously mentioned Fläskberget. It’s one of Sandhamn’s most popular bathing spots and a favorite among both locals and visitors. Especially on sunny summer days when people come to relax, swim and soak up the sun.
Even as the weather cools down — like during my visit in September — the beach still sees activity. Water sports enthusiasts, especially kitesurfers, take advantage of the open waters and steady winds, making Fläskberget a lively and energizing spot year-round.
The beaches of Sandhamn are great for swimming in summer and doing water sports in winter
For those willing to climb a bit, don’t miss Sandhamns Kapell — a charming white chapel built in 1935, located on the island’s highest point. It’s a peaceful spot with lovely views and its simple yet elegant design adds to the island’s timeless feel.
On the opposite side of the island, you’ll find another hidden gem: Dansberget (which translates to “Dancing Hill”). This scenic viewpoint once served as a local gathering spot for open-air dances, which is how it got its name. Today, it’s a quiet place to enjoy panoramic views of the sea, scattered islands and a striking old anchor that makes the perfect photo backdrop.
Get beautiful views of the archipelago from Dansberget
⛴️ Vaxholm — The Gateway to the Archipelago
Located just 40 minutes from central Stockholm, Vaxholm is one of the most charming and easily accessible islands in the archipelago — and without a doubt, one of my personal favorites.
With its colorful wooden houses, peaceful harbor and relaxed small-town atmosphere, Vaxholm offers the perfect introduction to life in the Stockholm archipelago.
I’ve visited Vaxholm more times than I can count, and I always discover something new to love. From exploring the impressive Vaxholm Fortress, to finding some of the best Swedish fika I’ve had in my nine years in Sweden, to swimming in hidden spots surrounded by natural beauty — Vaxholm truly has it all.
Vaxholm is one of the most picturesque places I’ve ever seen in Sweden
It’s also the ideal starting point for sailing tours, kayaking trips or island-hopping deeper into the archipelago. Thanks to great boat and bus connections, it’s a perfect destination for a day trip from Stockholm or a full island getaway.
👉 WANT TO DIVE DEEPER? I’ve written a full guide to help you plan your visit, with the best things to do, eat and see in Vaxholm: Check out my Vaxholm guide here
🚤 Fjäderholmarna – The Perfect Quick Escape from Stockholm
Fjäderholmarna is often called the gateway to Stockholm’s archipelago. Just a quick 30-minute boat ride from the city center, these islands offer a perfect taste of the archipelago’s natural beauty and charm. It’s ideal for visitors wanting to experience archipelago life without venturing too far.
Your archipelago journey begins the moment you board one of the Stromma boats from Slussen or Strandvägen during the high season. Cruising past iconic Stockholm sights like Gamla Stan (the Old Town), Södermalm, Djurgården, the Gröna Lund amusement park and the Vasa Museum, the boat ride itself is a stunning sightseeing tour on the water.
Instead of just taking a commuter ferry, you can choose to book this guided boat tour that lets you experience these beautiful islands just off Stockholm’s city center. Unlike the regular Stromma boats that simply take you from A to B, this sightseeing tour of the Stockholm Archipelago includes a relaxing cruise through the city’s waterways and a scenic stop at Fjäderholmarna — the perfect way to soak in the views and explore the closest island in the archipelago.
Arriving at Fjäderholmarna, you’ll be welcomed by a picturesque pier and traditional red wooden houses — the perfect postcard setting to start your archipelago adventure. The island feels worlds away, despite being so close to the mainland. It offers peace, charm and beautiful waterfront views.
Fjäderholmarna are the perfect islands to visit if you don’t have much time in Stockholm
For dining, Fjäderholmarnas Krog is the island’s most famous restaurant. Open during summer, it serves delicious food alongside panoramic water views. During winter, the restaurant hosts a traditional Julbord (Christmas buffet) starting from late November — a magical way to combine archipelago scenery with a festive Nordic experience.
Another great dining spot is Rökeriet, a stylish seafood restaurant by the water, known for its fresh, typical Swedish dishes. Rökeriet also offers Christmas buffets and a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Beyond food, the islands offer unique local experiences. Don’t miss Fjäderholmarna Choklad, a chocolate shop founded by two sisters inspired by the island’s history. Their handmade chocolates — each representing a milestone year — make perfect souvenirs or treats to enjoy on the boat back to Stockholm.
For original gifts, check out Textilt Uttryck, a local studio crafting beautiful trays, coasters, notebooks and more — all with unique archipelago-inspired patterns.
But perhaps the coziest spot on Fjäderholmarna is Röda Villan: a charming, low-key café surrounded by colorful flowers and set by the water’s edge. Whether you’re enjoying coffee and cakes inside or relaxing in the garden on a sunny day, the peaceful setting with views of trees, cliffs and a small beach makes it the perfect place to unwind. If you stay until late afternoon, don’t miss the stunning sunsets from the nearby cliffs — a truly magical way to end your visit.
The sunsets in Stocholm’s archipelago are truly special
When it’s time to leave, catch the boat back from the same pier, and in under 30 minutes, you’ll be back in central Stockholm — enjoying the breathtaking archipelago views once again.
No matter how many times I see Stockholm’s skyline from the water — whether on a boat tour or ferry ride — I never get tired of it. It’s truly one of those must-have experiences in Sweden that captures the magic of Stockholm from a whole new perspective.
Stockholm is so gorgeous seen from the water
With thousands of islands to choose from, Stockholm’s archipelago offers something for every kind of traveler — whether you’re craving peaceful nature, charming seaside villages or a cozy fika with a view. From the lively harbors of Vaxholm and Sandhamn to the secluded tranquility of Gällnö and Grinda, each island has its own unique magic waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for a week, exploring the archipelago is one of the most memorable things you can do in Sweden. So pack your sunscreen (or your cozy sweater!) and let the boats take you on an unforgettable journey across the Baltic Sea. ✨
And if you’re curious about more tips, local experiences and hidden gems around Stockholm — don’t forget to check out my other blog posts!
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