Exploring the charming town of Vaxholm and the stunning Stockholm Archipelago is an enchanting day trip worth considering. This guided excursion promises a scenic cruise, a visit to the historic 16th-century fortress, and a leisurely picnic lunch. Wandering through Vaxholm’s quaint town square filled with boutiques and cafes offers a peaceful escape from the city. With its praised beauty and insightful experiences, this excursion may just be the perfect getaway you’ve been searching for.
Key Points
- A guided excursion to the historic Vaxholm Fortress, known for its 16th-century architecture and scenic location in the Stockholm Archipelago.
- A 1-hour scenic cruise through the picturesque islands and villages of the Stockholm Archipelago, offering breathtaking views of the Vaxholm Fortress.
- A guided tour of the Vaxholm Fortress, exploring its thick stone walls, watchtowers, and learning about its rich history as a naval defense for Stockholm.
- A 2-hour picnic lunch break at the Vaxholm Fortress Museum, with the opportunity to explore the museum exhibits and stroll through the town square.
- A scenic bus ride back to Stockholm, with commentary from the guide on the history and culture of the region.
Exploring Vaxholm: A Charming Fortress Town
After departing Stockholm, the group arrives in the charming town of Vaxholm, known for its 16th-century fortress.
They take a ferry to the fortress and explore its historic walls and structures on a guided tour. Visitors can shop at local boutiques, admire scenic views, and visit the Vaxholm Fortress Museum during the 1-hour stop.
The group then enjoys a picnic lunch break at the museum, with time to further explore the beach and town square before returning to Stockholm via bus in the late afternoon.
Looking for more options in Vaxholm? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Cruising the Stockholm Archipelago
The excursion then takes participants on a scenic cruise through the stunning Stockholm Archipelago. The journey provides a unique opportunity to admire the region’s picturesque islands, charming seaside villages, and tranquil waterways. Travelers can relax on the ship’s deck and soak in the serene atmosphere as they sail past the iconic 16th-century Vaxholm Fortress. The cruise is a highlight of the day, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city and a chance to take in the natural beauty of the archipelago.
| Highlights | Duration |
| — | — |
| Scenic cruise | 1 hour |
| Admire islands & villages | – |
| Vaxholm Fortress views | – |
| What to Expect | Included |
| — | — |
| Peaceful atmosphere | Cruise ship fare |
| Immerse in nature | Ferry tickets |
| Relax on the deck | – |
Discovering the 16th-Century Vaxholm Fortress
As the excursion reaches Vaxholm, participants disembark the ferry and embark on a guided tour of the historic 16th-century Vaxholm Fortress.
This impressive structure was built to defend Stockholm from naval attacks. Guides share the fortress’ rich history, pointing out its thick stone walls, watchtowers, and strategic location on an island.
Participants explore the grounds, learning about the fortress’ role in Sweden’s past. After the tour, there’s time to wander the fortress museum and enjoy the scenic views before regrouping for the picnic lunch at the fortress.
Enjoying a Picnic Lunch at the Fortress Museum
Once the guided tour of the historic Vaxholm Fortress concludes, participants gather for a relaxed picnic lunch at the fortress museum.
The museum offers indoor and outdoor seating areas with scenic views of the archipelago. Guests can enjoy their own packed lunches while taking in the serene surroundings.
The museum’s seating areas, both indoors and out, provide scenic views of the archipelago for guests to enjoy their packed lunches.
The 2-hour lunch break provides ample time to refuel, explore the museum exhibits, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the 16th-century fortress.
After the picnic, travelers return to the ferry for the next leg of the excursion, ready to further discover the natural beauty of the Stockholm archipelago.
More Great Tours NearbyLeisurely Stroll Through Vaxholm’s Town Square
After exploring the historic Vaxholm Fortress, participants now make their way to the charming town square of Vaxholm.
With an extra hour allotted, visitors can leisurely stroll through the picturesque town, taking in the sights and sounds.
The town square features:
-
Quaint shops and boutiques
-
Local cafes and restaurants
-
Scenic views of the surrounding archipelago
-
Historic church and town hall
-
Bustling activity from both locals and travelers
This relaxing break allows participants to enjoy the local culture and appreciate the tranquil beauty of Vaxholm before heading back to Stockholm.
Returning to Stockholm: A Scenic Bus Ride
With the afternoon winding down, participants board a comfortable bus for the scenic journey back to Stockholm.
The bus ride provides a relaxing conclusion to the day’s adventure. Along the way, travelers can admire the picturesque countryside and coastal landscapes that flank the route.
The guide points out notable landmarks and provides commentary on the history and culture of the Stockholm Archipelago.
Around 5 pm, the bus pulls into the city center, marking the end of the guided excursion.
Participants depart the bus, reflecting on the memorable sights and experiences they encountered throughout the day.
Recommended Packing and Restrictions
To make the most of the Vaxholm & Stockholm Archipelago excursion, travelers should pack a few essential items.
The recommended packing list includes:
-
Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring
-
Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen to protect against the elements
-
Light jacket or layers for changing weather conditions
-
Food and drinks, as a picnic lunch is recommended during the tour
-
Personal medications and a small daypack to carry supplies
Travelers should also be aware of the restrictions, which prohibit bringing bikes, alcohol, drugs, littering, and feeding animals.
Following these guidelines will ensure a smooth and enjoyable day trip to the stunning Stockholm Archipelago.
Travelers’ Testimonials and Ratings
According to the customer reviews, the Vaxholm & Stockholm Archipelago guided excursion has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 25 reviews, travelers have praised the friendly guide, beautiful scenery, and excellent value for money.
| Rating | Transportation | Value for Money |
|——–|—————-|—————–|
| 4.8/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.5/5 |
Reviewers from the UK, Belgium, and Australia have all highlighted the attentive guide, enjoyable trip, and stunning natural landscapes of the Stockholm Archipelago. The excursion appears to provide a well-rounded experience that caters to both first-time and repeat visitors to the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
The tour can accommodate private groups, but group size is limited to 10 participants. Travelers can reserve the tour and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Do You Provide Vegetarian/Vegan Lunch Options?
Yes, they offer vegetarian and vegan lunch options. Participants can bring their own picnic lunch or pre-order a plant-based meal when booking the tour. The tour company is happy to accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Travelers can request an extended itinerary when booking, which may include additional stops or more time at certain locations for an additional fee.
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Cruise?
No, bringing your own alcoholic beverages is not allowed on the cruise. The tour restrictions clearly state that alcohol is not permitted. Participants should plan to purchase any drinks or refreshments on-site during the tour.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour operator doesn’t offer any student or senior discounts, but they do provide free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. Travelers can check if they qualify for any other promotions.
The Sum Up
The excursion to Vaxholm and the Stockholm Archipelago offers a delightful escape from the city. Visitors can explore the historic Vaxholm Fortress, enjoy a picnic lunch, and stroll through the charming town square. With a scenic cruise and bus ride, the trip promises a peaceful and insightful journey through the enchanting islands. It’s an excellent way to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the region.
You can check availability for your dates here: