Stockholm is famous for its archipelago, which was formed over 800 million years ago, comprising of over 30 000 islands, 6200 of which are larger islands, and the rest consisting of smaller islands and rocks. Stockholm is a city of never-ending explorations, with its islands as a perfect example . No matter what sort of vacation you prefer, you will find at least several islands that match your preferences, ranging from those covered with lush forests, dotted with valleys with views of the open sea, those with stone cliffs, those with high waves hitting their shores, both inhabited and solitary, with both smaller or bigger houses. Let us draw your attention to the seven most interesting and attractive Stockholm islands, but we will leave the choice to you to board the ferry and let your own adventure begin!
Grinda is yet another dreamlike island located in the Stockholm archipelago with charming inlets, bays, and lush forests. By an express boat, through Vaxholm, it takes about an hour to get to the island. The nature reserve is owned by the Archipelago Foundation. You can rent a kayak at any time as one of the offered activities on the island. We highly recommend all mountaineering and hiking activities. If you are visiting during summer, be sure to bring your bathing suit and enjoy sand beaches and swimming. During winter you should definitely try floating saunas. And if you enjoy bird’s eye views, the island has two phenomenal lookouts that will take your breath away.
Vaxholm a city that represents the gate of the Stockholm archipelago with well-preserved wooden houses dating back to the beginning of the 20th century. They are painted in light pastel colour tones of the archipelago. You may often hear that it is the archipelago’s capital. By the beginning of the 16th century, King Gustav Vasa set up defense for the bay of Stockholm. A fortress was built near the city, and today it is a tourist attraction. The fortress made the place even more attractive for tourists because the history has been preserved. The Vaxholm Fortress Museum, located on an islet, across Vaxholm (a couple of minutes away by taxi), is perfect for exploring the region’s history. By the end of the 1800s, Vaxholm became a popular resort for Stockholm communities.
Fjäderholmarna actually refers to a group of 4 small islands - Stora Fjäderholmen, Ängsholmen, Libertas and Rövarns holme. Fjaderholmarna is the closest island to Stockholm, it could even be seen from Djurgården. It was named after Fjärdholmarna which means “the islets of the bay”. It is also known as the “Feather island”, and it is a passage to the archipelago. Because of the easy access and small distance, the island is mostly visited by tourists and Stockholm citizens.