Best One-Day Trips from Stockholm: Explore Nearby Gems

Stockholm
Stockholm from City Hall by akasped is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
  • Uppsala

    Explore the best of Uppsala in a day!

  • Sigtuna

    Explore the best of Sigtuna in a day!

  • Mariefred

    Explore the best of Mariefred in a day!

  • Vaxholm

    Explore the best of Vaxholm in a day!

One-Day Trip from Stockholm to Uppsala

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance from Stockholm: 70 km (43 miles)
  • Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour by car, 40 minutes by train

Transportation Options

  • By Car: Take the E4 highway north from Stockholm to Uppsala.
  • By Train: Regular trains depart from Stockholm Central Station to Uppsala Central Station, with a travel time of approximately 40 minutes.

Main Attractions

Uppsala Cathedral Uppsala Cathedral is the largest church in Scandinavia and a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It houses the tombs of Swedish royalty and notable figures like Carl Linnaeus. The cathedral's impressive spires and intricate interior make it a must-visit.

Uppsala University and Museum Gustavianum Founded in 1477, Uppsala University is one of the oldest universities in Scandinavia. The Museum Gustavianum, located on campus, showcases fascinating exhibits on Viking artifacts, ancient coins, and the famous Augsburg Art Cabinet.

Botanical Garden The Uppsala Botanical Garden, established by Carl Linnaeus, is a beautiful and serene place to explore. It features a wide variety of plants, greenhouses, and a lovely baroque garden. The garden is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers great photo opportunities.

Itinerary Suggestions

Start your day with a visit to Uppsala Cathedral, taking time to explore its magnificent interior and historical significance. Next, head to Uppsala University and the Museum Gustavianum to delve into the rich academic and cultural history of the city. After lunch, spend the afternoon wandering through the Botanical Garden, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and diverse plant life. Return to Stockholm in the early evening.

Local Food

  • Gravad Lax: Cured salmon served with mustard sauce and dill.
  • Kanelbullar: Swedish cinnamon buns, perfect for a coffee break.
  • Pytt i Panna: A traditional Swedish hash made with diced meat, potatoes, and onions.

Local Tips

For the best views of Uppsala, climb the steps to the top of Uppsala Cathedral's tower. Don't miss the chance to explore the charming streets of the old town, Gamla Uppsala, where you can find ancient burial mounds and a quaint church.

One-Day Trip from Stockholm to Sigtuna

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance from Stockholm: 50 km (31 miles)
  • Estimated Travel Time: 45 minutes by car, 1 hour by bus

Transportation Options

  • By Car: Drive north on the E4 highway and take the exit towards Sigtuna.
  • By Bus: Take a bus from Stockholm Central Station to Sigtuna, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour.

Main Attractions

Sigtuna Town Center Sigtuna is Sweden's oldest town, founded in the 10th century. The town center is filled with charming wooden houses, narrow streets, and historic buildings. It's a delightful place to wander and soak in the medieval atmosphere.

Sigtuna Museum The Sigtuna Museum offers a fascinating look into the town's Viking and medieval history. Exhibits include artifacts, runestones, and interactive displays that bring the past to life.

St. Mary's Church St. Mary's Church, built in the 13th century, is one of the oldest brick churches in Sweden. Its beautiful architecture and serene setting make it a peaceful spot to visit.

Itinerary Suggestions

Begin your day with a stroll through Sigtuna's picturesque town center, exploring the historic buildings and quaint shops. Visit the Sigtuna Museum to learn about the town's rich history. After lunch, head to St. Mary's Church for a moment of reflection and to admire its architecture. Spend the afternoon wandering along the shores of Lake Mälaren before returning to Stockholm.

Local Food

  • Raggmunk: Swedish potato pancakes, often served with lingonberries and bacon.
  • Prinsesstårta: A traditional Swedish layer cake with green marzipan and cream.
  • Smörgåsbord: A variety of cold and hot dishes, including herring, meatballs, and cheeses.

Local Tips

Take a walk along the Sigtuna Boardwalk for stunning views of Lake Mälaren. Look out for the numerous runestones scattered around the town, which offer a glimpse into its Viking past.

One-Day Trip from Stockholm to Mariefred

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance from Stockholm: 65 km (40 miles)
  • Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour by car, 1.5 hours by train and bus

Transportation Options

  • By Car: Drive west on the E20 highway towards Mariefred.
  • By Train and Bus: Take a train from Stockholm Central Station to Läggesta, then a bus to Mariefred.

Main Attractions

Gripsholm Castle Gripsholm Castle, located on the shores of Lake Mälaren, is a stunning Renaissance castle with a rich history. It houses the Swedish National Portrait Gallery and offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

Mariefred Town Center The charming town center of Mariefred is filled with colorful wooden houses, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. It's a lovely place to explore and enjoy the small-town atmosphere.

Mariefred Railway Station The historic Mariefred Railway Station is home to the narrow-gauge steam railway, which offers scenic rides through the countryside. It's a fun and nostalgic experience for visitors of all ages.

Itinerary Suggestions

Start your day with a visit to Gripsholm Castle, exploring its impressive interiors and beautiful gardens. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Mariefred's town center, stopping for lunch at a local cafe. In the afternoon, enjoy a ride on the narrow-gauge steam railway, taking in the picturesque scenery. Return to Stockholm in the early evening.

Local Food

  • Sill: Pickled herring, a staple in Swedish cuisine.
  • Köttbullar: Swedish meatballs, often served with lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes.
  • Ostkaka: A traditional Swedish cheesecake made with almonds and served with jam.

Local Tips

For the best views of Gripsholm Castle, take a walk along the lakeshore. Don't miss the chance to visit the Mariefred Railway Station and take a ride on the steam train for a unique experience.

One-Day Trip from Stockholm to Vaxholm

Distance and Travel Time

  • Distance from Stockholm: 40 km (25 miles)
  • Estimated Travel Time: 45 minutes by car, 1 hour by ferry

Transportation Options

  • By Car: Drive east on the E18 highway towards Vaxholm.
  • By Ferry: Take a ferry from Stockholm's Strömkajen to Vaxholm, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour.

Main Attractions

Vaxholm Fortress Vaxholm Fortress, located on an island in the Stockholm Archipelago, is a historic military fortification. It houses a museum that showcases the history of the fortress and its role in defending Stockholm. The island offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Vaxholm Town Center The town center of Vaxholm is filled with charming wooden houses, boutique shops, and waterfront cafes. It's a delightful place to explore and enjoy the relaxed island vibe.

Archipelago Boat Tours Vaxholm is a gateway to the Stockholm Archipelago, and several boat tours are available to explore the surrounding islands. These tours offer stunning views of the archipelago's natural beauty and are a great way to experience the area.

Itinerary Suggestions

Begin your day with a visit to Vaxholm Fortress, taking the ferry to the island and exploring the museum. Afterward, return to Vaxholm's town center for lunch and a leisurely stroll through the charming streets. In the afternoon, take an archipelago boat tour to see more of the beautiful islands. Return to Stockholm in the early evening.

Local Food

  • Strömming: Fried Baltic herring, often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries.
  • Skagenröra: A creamy seafood salad made with shrimp, mayonnaise, and dill.
  • Kladdkaka: A rich and gooey Swedish chocolate cake, perfect for dessert.

Local Tips

For the best views of the archipelago, take a walk along the waterfront in Vaxholm. Don't miss the chance to visit the local shops and cafes, where you can find unique souvenirs and enjoy delicious Swedish treats.

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