Stockholm Archipelago: A Must-Visit During Your Swedish Holiday
Discover the bliss of Sweden’s Stockholm Archipelago - a serene summer escape of island hopping, scenic trails, and traditional inns, recently named one of TIME’s Greatest Places of 2025.
A quick summer break in the Stockholm archipelago is blissful - the perfect way to unwind after travelling through Scandinavia. With its windswept islands, classic seaside inns, and laid-back pace, the archipelago offers a beautifully balanced mix of nature, culture and calm.
Our customisable Stockholm Archipelago itineraries include handpicked, stylish hotels on some of the region’s most charming islands. You can enjoy local fish restaurants, sail on historic steamships, cycle scenic backroads, or swim from rocky beaches and secluded coves before heading home - completely refreshed.
Sail, Swim and Savour
Start your adventure by catching a boat from central Stockholm and sailing out into the island-dotted seascape. For boating aficionados, we can arrange travel on one of the classic old steamers - a nostalgic and elegant way to experience the archipelago.
Stay in traditional hotels and enjoy meals at local inns or waterside restaurants, often featuring the daily catch. Spend your days island hopping, with favourite stops including:
- Grinda, ideal for a forest walk or a peaceful kayak paddle along the shoreline
- Utö, with scenic trails, traditional guesthouses and fascinating mining history
- Vaxholm, known as the capital of the archipelago and a hub of cafés and heritage
Enjoy a long lunch overlooking the sea, picnic in a quiet meadow, or grab an ice cream from one of the charming local kiosks. For those looking to explore even further, you can boat out to the outer archipelago - the remote and windswept playground of Swedish yachtsmen - with options to visit Sandhamn or even smaller, lesser-known islands.
Introducing the Stockholm Archipelago Trail
New for active travellers is the Stockholm Archipelago Trail, which was recently named one of TIME Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places for 2025. This remarkable 270-kilometre (168-mile) trail invites travellers to walk across 21 islands, weaving together rugged landscapes, deep pine forests, and authentic cultural encounters.
Overnight stays along the route include traditional inns like Utö Värdshus, a historic guesthouse that once hosted the legendary Greta Garbo. This trail has gained international attention not only from TIME, but also from National Geographic’s “Best of the World” List for 2025, and Good Morning America among other things.
Launched in late 2024, the trail is part of a broader movement in Sweden to highlight slow travel, local culture, and sustainable exploration - a perfect fit for nature-loving travellers wanting to experience Sweden beyond its cities.