Vaxholm - Image 1
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Vaxholm Stockholm

4.6
·491k reviews·Vaxholm, Sweden

A picturesque island town in Stockholm's archipelago, Vaxholm offers charming wooden houses, historic fortresses, and scenic ferry rides.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Vaxholm - Image 1

Vaxholm Stockholm

Best Time

Summer mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque island town in Stockholm's archipelago, Vaxholm offers charming wooden houses, historic fortresses, and scenic ferry rides.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Vaxholm is a delightful escape, offering a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and Swedish charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Scenic Ferry Ride

Take the SL ferry from Strömkajen for stunning archipelago views. It's part of the SL public transport system!

🚌 Faster Bus Option

Bus 670 from Tekniska Högskolan is a quicker way to reach Vaxholm if time is limited.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vaxholm Fortress

Vaxholm Fortress

Island fort

Explore this historic island fortress, a key defense for Stockholm, offering great views and a glimpse into military history.

Charming Wooden Houses

Charming Wooden Houses

Vaxholm town

Wander through picturesque streets lined with beautifully preserved colorful wooden houses, a photographer's delight.

Archipelago Views

Archipelago Views

Various viewpoints

Soak in breathtaking vistas of the Stockholm archipelago, especially stunning during sunset from spots like Ivar Los park.

Fika Break

Fika Break

Cafes in Vaxholm

Indulge in the Swedish tradition of 'fika' with coffee and pastries at a local cafe, a perfect way to relax.

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Planning Your Visit

Ferry vs. Bus to Vaxholm

Decide between a scenic ferry ride or a quicker bus journey. Ferries offer stunning archipelago views and are part of the SL public transport system, while buses are faster and also covered by SL. Consider your priorities: a leisurely cruise or efficient travel to maximize your time exploring Vaxholm island.

Embrace the Archipelago Charm

Vaxholm is your gateway to Stockholm's archipelago. Plan for a relaxed pace, enjoy 'fika' (coffee and cake), and explore the charming wooden houses. Don't miss Vaxholm Fortress for a dose of history and picturesque views.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

9 Amazing things to do in #Stockholm #sweden 😍 #tiktoktravel #europetravel #citybreak #citybreaks #europe #travel #travelinspiration
@amyenvoyage
76K likes • 2.5M views

🚢 Scenic Ferry Ride

Take the SL ferry from Strömkajen for stunning archipelago views. It's part of the SL public transport system! Reddit+1

🚌 Faster Bus Option

Bus 670 from Tekniska Högskolan is a quicker way to reach Vaxholm if time is limited. Reddit

Have you visited #stockholm 🇸🇪? #sverige #svenska #stockholmtravel #sweden #scandinavia #amsterdamlocal #culturaldifference #skansen #östermalm #södermalm #gamlastan #europe #touristrap
@whereiswanda
61.5K likes • 859.3K views
Vaxholm i mitt ❤️:a. 👉Svajpa för en finfika som kallas duga! ☕️🍰 Svajpa också för att frossa i vackra hus. Oh my lord som jag vill flytta in i varenda en. Snickarglädje och underbara färgval. Blir så galet inspirerad att jag vill måla om prick varenda pinal och vägg där hemma nu. Åh sicket mys att jag kunde tajma mitt jobbmöte i huvudstaden med att besöka mammi och pappi och få lite kvalitetstid...
hejmitthem
176 likes • 0 views

🏰 Explore Vaxholm Fortress

Don't miss the historic fortress; it's a main attraction and offers great photo opportunities. Reddit

🍰 Enjoy a Fika

Savor Swedish 'fika' with coffee and pastries at a local cafe. Many have lovely waterfront views. Instagram

Vaxholm 🚢🌷🪩🍓 A lovely day trip from the city of Stockholm, this charming archipelago town is just an hour boat ride away and well worth a visit Vaxholm mini guide: 🚢 I got boat number 4 from Stromkajen (you can also get on from Slussen) and it takes around an hour to get there 🍛 Dee Dee Thaikök - I know it seems random to recommend a Thai buffet in Sweden, but hear me out loool. Sweden can be...
astoldbyanmol
50 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Scenic Ferry Ride

Take the SL ferry from Strömkajen for stunning archipelago views. It's part of the SL public transport system! Reddit+1

🚌 Faster Bus Option

Bus 670 from Tekniska Högskolan is a quicker way to reach Vaxholm if time is limited. Reddit

🏰 Explore Vaxholm Fortress

Don't miss the historic fortress; it's a main attraction and offers great photo opportunities. Reddit

🍰 Enjoy a Fika

Savor Swedish 'fika' with coffee and pastries at a local cafe. Many have lovely waterfront views. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Streets

Wander through Vaxholm's charming streets lined with colorful wooden houses. Instagram

☀️ Pack for the Weather

Even in summer, the archipelago can be breezy. Bring layers and be prepared for changing weather. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Vaxholm for its picturesque charm, especially the colorful wooden houses and the scenic ferry journey from Stockholm. It's considered an ideal, accessible day trip into the archipelago, offering a relaxing escape with historical sites like the fortress. Some find the dining options a bit limited or pricey, and swimming opportunities aren't always the main draw.

What People Like

Charming wooden houses
Scenic ferry ride
Historic Vaxholm Fortress

What People Dislike

Limited dining variety
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You have two main options: take the SL ferry from Strömkajen (near Grand Hotel) or Slussen, which takes about an hour and offers scenic archipelago views.Reddit+1 Alternatively, you can take bus 670 from Tekniska Högskolan, which is a faster option.Reddit Both are covered by the SL public transport system.

Yes, the Waxholmsbolaget ferries to Vaxholm are part of the SL public transport network, meaning you can use your SL card for the journey.Reddit+1

The ferry offers a more scenic and leisurely experience, passing through the beautiful archipelago.Reddit The bus is generally faster and a more direct route. Both are convenient options for a day trip from Stockholm.

The boat trip from Strömkajen to Vaxholm typically takes around one hour, offering a pleasant journey through the islands.Reddit

Yes, you can board the SL boat (number 83) to Vaxholm from Slussen, as well as from Strömkajen.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, if you have a valid SL travel card (like a day pass or period ticket), it covers the ferry journey to Vaxholm as it's part of the public transport system.Reddit+1

While exploring the town of Vaxholm is free, there might be an entrance fee to access the interior of Vaxholm Fortress itself. It's advisable to check their official website for current admission prices and opening hours.

Opening hours for Vaxholm Fortress can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Vaxholm Fortress website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Yes, you can find various boat tours that explore the Vaxholm archipelago. Some may include stops at the fortress or other islands. Check with local tour operators like Stromma for options.Reddit

Absolutely! Bus 670, which travels to Vaxholm, is a public transport route, so your SL card is valid for this journey as well.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include exploring Vaxholm Fortress, wandering through the charming streets with colorful wooden houses, enjoying 'fika' at local cafes, and taking in the beautiful archipelago views.InstagramReddit

Yes, Vaxholm is a very popular and highly recommended day trip from Stockholm. It's easily accessible by ferry or bus and offers a delightful escape to the archipelago.InstagramReddit

At Vaxholm Fortress, you can learn about its history, explore the grounds, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding archipelago. It's a significant historical site.Reddit

While Vaxholm is known for its archipelago setting, swimming spots might be limited or seasonal. Some locals suggest taking ferries to nearby islands like Rindö or Ramsö for better swimming opportunities, though water temperatures can be cool.Reddit

It's possible to rent bikes in Vaxholm. Inquire at the local information kiosk by the docks or check with local rental shops to explore the island and surrounding areas.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Vaxholm offers charming cafes for 'fika' (coffee and pastries) and several good fish restaurants by the boats.Reddit For something different, Dee Dee Thaikök offers a Thai buffet.Instagram

There are several cozy cafes in Vaxholm perfect for 'fika'. Look for places near the docks or in the town center for a delightful coffee and pastry experience.Instagram

Yes, Vaxholm has several restaurants by the waterfront that are known for serving fresh fish and seafood, making it a great spot for a meal with a view.

'Fika' is a Swedish concept that means taking a break for coffee and a sweet treat, like a pastry or cake. It's a cherished social tradition in Sweden.TikTok

While Vaxholm is known for its fish restaurants, many cafes will offer some vegetarian options for pastries. For more extensive vegan/vegetarian choices, you might need to plan ahead or consider dining back in Stockholm.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the colorful wooden houses, the historic Vaxholm Fortress, and the stunning archipelago landscapes. Sunset views from Ivar Los park are particularly breathtaking.TikTok

Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful golden hour light for photographing the charming town and archipelago. Sunsets can be spectacular.TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both town details and wider landscape shots. A wide-angle lens is useful for the expansive archipelago views.

Vaxholm is famous for its well-preserved, colorful wooden houses with intricate details. The Vaxholm Fortress also provides a dramatic historical backdrop.

Absolutely! The ferry ride itself offers fantastic opportunities to photograph the islands, the water, and the approaching town of Vaxholm. Sit on the side facing the archipelago for the best views.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Vaxholm is a great family-friendly day trip from Stockholm. The ferry ride itself is an adventure for kids, offering views of islands and boats. Exploring Vaxholm Fortress can be exciting, with its historical context and open spaces. Encourage them to spot the colorful wooden houses and enjoy a 'fika' with kid-friendly treats. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options might be more limited on smaller islands if you venture further afield. The relaxed pace of Vaxholm is ideal for a less strenuous family outing.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Traveling to Vaxholm on a budget is very feasible thanks to the SL public transport system. Using your SL card for the ferry or bus significantly cuts down on travel costs.Reddit+1 Pack your own picnic lunch and snacks to enjoy by the water, saving money on restaurant meals. While Vaxholm Fortress may have an entrance fee, simply exploring the charming town and enjoying the views is free. Focus on the scenic journey and the town's atmosphere for a cost-effective yet rewarding experience.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Vaxholm is a photographer's dream, especially for those who love charming architecture and scenic landscapes. The colorful wooden houses offer endless opportunities for vibrant shots.Instagram The Vaxholm Fortress provides a dramatic historical subject. For breathtaking views, head to spots like Ivar Los park for stunning archipelago panoramas, particularly during the golden hour or sunset.TikTok The ferry journey itself is also a great chance to capture unique perspectives of the islands and the water.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating to Vaxholm: Ferry vs. Bus

Getting to Vaxholm from Stockholm is part of the adventure, and you have two primary, convenient options. The SL ferry from Strömkajen (near the Grand Hotel) or Slussen offers a truly scenic journey. This boat trip takes about an hour and provides stunning views of the Stockholm archipelago, making it a highlight in itself.Reddit+1 It's a fantastic way to ease into the island vibe. For those prioritizing speed, bus 670 departing from Tekniska Högskolan is a quicker alternative.Reddit Both options are integrated into the SL public transport system, meaning your regular SL travel card is valid for the journey, making it an affordable and accessible day trip.

Exploring Vaxholm: Beyond the Fortress

While Vaxholm Fortress is a must-visit for its historical significance and commanding views,Reddit the charm of Vaxholm extends far beyond its ramparts. The town itself is a delight to explore on foot. Wander through its picturesque streets, admiring the beautifully preserved colorful wooden houses that are a hallmark of Swedish coastal towns.Instagram These architectural gems, with their intricate details and vibrant hues, make for wonderful photographs. Don't forget to embrace the Swedish tradition of 'fika' – a coffee break accompanied by delicious pastries – at one of the many cozy cafes scattered throughout the town.Instagram

Experiencing the Archipelago

Vaxholm serves as a perfect introduction to the vast and beautiful Stockholm archipelago. The ferry ride itself is an immersion into this unique environment, with countless islands dotting the water. For those seeking more than just a day trip, Vaxholm is a gateway to exploring further. Some travelers suggest venturing to nearby islands like Rindö or Ramsö for different experiences, including potential swimming spots, though the water can be quite cool.Reddit The archipelago offers a serene escape from the city, with opportunities for boat tours and enjoying the natural beauty.

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