Our tour experts at Sweden Private Tours have designed a private day tour that takes you through the heart of the Stockholm Archipelago, one of the world’s most stunning coastal landscapes. Sail past pine-covered islets, explore vibrant harbor towns, and enjoy a traditional Swedish lunch with sea views.

Guided by your knowledgeable captain and private guide, you’ll travel by boat across glistening waters to handpicked islands, each with its own unique charm. Walk through colorful fishing villages, step inside historic fortresses, swim in the Baltic Sea, or simply relax, enjoying coastal views. 

Below, you’ll find a sample Stockholm Archipelago itinerary to inspire your visit, but every journey is fully customizable to make it uniquely yours.

Stockholm Archipelago Day Tour Itinerary

Your private guide will meet you in the morning at your Stockholm accommodation. After a warm welcome and your guide telling you about the day ahead, you’ll transfer to a nearby harbor where your private boat awaits. The experience begins the moment you leave the city streets behind. As you make your way to the harbor, your guide will point out key sights along the way, like Djurgården, the Royal Palace, and waterfront landmarks.

Cruising the Inner Archipelago

As your boat pulls away from Stockholm, you’ll leave the city behind, and a lush tapestry of islands, cottages, and pine-covered shores will gradually emerge. You’ll enter the inner archipelago, a picturesque zone where modern life blends with maritime heritage. Your guide will share stories of the archipelago’s origins, from glacial formations to Viking trade routes. They’ll also point out notable islands such as Fjäderholmarna and Lidingö, as well as fishing huts once used by Stockholm’s earliest coastal settlers.

While onboard, enjoy a traditional Swedish coffee break with cinnamon buns, fresh-brewed coffee, and pastries served right on deck as you cruise in comfort.

First Island: Vaxholm

Your first stop on your Archipelago cruise is the harbor town of Vaxholm, or as it is otherwise known, the “Gateway to the Archipelago.” It makes the perfect first impression, as you’ll see sailboats docking in the marina and rows of pastel-colored wooden houses. Enjoy some of the best attractions in Vaxholm, including:

Vaxholm Fortress: This 16th-century fortress is a must-visit during your time in Vaxholm. It was key to protecting the capital during numerous conflicts and later evolved into a prison and coastal defense museum. Learn how it helped protect Stockholm from naval invasions and its role in Sweden’s coastal defense system.

Old Town Walk: Stroll along cobblestone streets past bakeries, handicraft boutiques, and harborside cafés. You’ll have some excellent opportunities for photos as you walk past Vaxholm’s colorful houses, flower boxes, and waterfront backdrop.

Middle Archipelago & Island Lunch

After exploring the charming harbor town of Vaxholm, your private boat will head farther into the middle archipelago. This part of the journey offers some of the most scenic cruising of the day.

You’ll stop at Grinda, one of the archipelago’s most beloved islands. This beautiful nature reserve offers a perfect balance of scenic trails and comfort. Grinda is known for its calm, clear swimming spots, and your guide will take you to one of its sandy beaches. When you finish at the beach, your next stop is a charming waterfront inn for a traditional Swedish lunch. Our tour planners will work with you to determine the type of food you want and choose an appropriate restaurant.   

After lunch, your private guide will lead you through one of the island’s hiking trails. If you’re feeling full after your lunch, don’t worry. There are short and long hiking trails to choose from, and if you don’t feel up for a hike, your guide can tailor the day to your preferences. You can either hike through the pine and spruce forests or just take it easy and enjoy the sea views.

Return to Stockholm

After a day of exploring the Stockholm Archipelago, it’s time to return to your boat for the return journey to Stockholm. The journey back to Stockholm is a highlight in itself, as you’ll enjoy stunning views, such as small islands with lighthouses, historic summer estates, and even the potential for wildlife sightings, such as sea birds and seals. We can arrange for you to enjoy light refreshments or a glass of Champagne as you toast your final moments on the water.

Drop off at Stockholm Accommodation

You’ll arrive back at Stockholm’s harbor, and your guide can take you to your hotel or chosen location. If you need any recommendations for restaurants or evening activities, our guides have an extensive knowledge of Stockholm and would be delighted to help you in any way they can.