Located just 35 km away from the capital of Sweden, Vaxholm (also referred to as Waxholm in Swedish) is considered the entry point to the Stockholm archipelago islands. Although this destination might be much more exciting in the summer, I decided to venture there during the cold Swedish winter. Read this post to learn what to see in Vaxholm, how to get there and much more.
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Disclaimers:
- I visited Vaxholm in December 2021 during my trip to Stockholm. This post includes the latest information available to this date, and I’ll keep updating it as I discover more destinations in the Stockholm archipelago area.
- Please note that this post includes some affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost for you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. In case you have any question about the companies advertised here or my status as an affiliate, please do not hesitate to contact me.
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When visiting Vaxholm or any other nearby island in the Stockholm archipelago, feel free to use this Stockholm pocket guide or this Sweden guidebook, both by Lonely Planet, to plan your stay and make the most out of it. I hope you’ll find them helpful!
What to do in Vaxholm (Stockholm archipelago)
The Stockholm archipelago near the capital of Sweden, Stockholm, is surrounded by endless islands. Vaxholm is a popular destination in the area, often considered the best entry point to this Swedish archipelago. Depending on the time you have at hand or the activities you feel like doing, there are many islands to choose from. So just get ready and hop on a ferry!
Expect lush landscapes on your way there as well as colorful wooden cabins by the water. Even though summer is the most popular season to visit Vaxholm, the Christmas season feels extra special too. I had actually heard there was a nice Christmas market in town, but unfortunately there was none when I went there.
Feeling adventurous? Check out these outdoor activities with Manawa near Stockholm!
Guided Full-Day Fishing Tour from Vaxholm near Stockholm
Guided Half-Day Fishing Tour from Vaxholm near Stockholm
Sailing excursion from Vaxholm in the Stockholm archipelago
Sailing Tour in the Stockholm Archipelago
Sea Kayaking Tour in the Stockholm Archipelago
Sunset Kayaking Tour in the Stockholm Archipelago
The island of Vaxholm in itself is pretty small. This cozy town has not much to see apart from a fortress (Kastellet) and the welcoming Waxholms Hotell. However, I really enjoyed walking around the island to admire the Swedish way of life first-hand.
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Where to stay and eat in Vaxholm
The meeting point on the island seemed to be the Vaxholms Hotell, which you will find upon arrival if you come by ferry. This lovely hotel offers rooms in a cozy atmosphere. The hotel features a historic restaurant called Matsalen with wonderful views over Vaxholm Bay. Make sure to try their Christmas ‘smörgåsbord‘ buffet during that magical time of the year!
Browse on Airbnb or Booking for alternative accomodations in Vaxholm or in the Stockholm archipelago areac.
When it comes to additional food options in Vaxholm, other places that came recommended were Boulangerie and Hembyrgårdscafe. At the bottom of Vaxholm hotel, right on the street, you will also find a little shop selling fresh fish (herring, salmon or shrimp). Yum!
How to get to Vaxholm
The usual way to arrive to Waxholm is by ferry. When I visited, I took an early trip to the Stockholm archipelago by catching ferry 83 in Strömkajen, in the Swedish capital. The ride just takes one hour and a half and the ferry is equipped with a cafeteria onboard. You can enjoy the views by sitting inside or standing outside (in case you’re brave enough in the winter time). The ferry will drop you at Drophelmsplan, right in front of the Vaxholms Hotell. Check the commuter ferry line 83 map here.
You can also get to Vaxholm by bus, which is what I did on my way back to Stockholm. Instead of waiting for ferry 83 again, which comes every other hour, I hopped on bus 270 to Universitetet (in northern Stockholm), and from there, I took the metro to Gamla Stan.
Watch this recap reels about my day trip to Vaxholm!
Map of Vaxholm in the Stockholm archipelago
For your ease of reference, below you will find a Vaxholm map with all the spots mentioned throughout this blog post. Use it to plan your next trip!
Other destinations in Sweden (+ in the Nordic countries)
Do you need more inspiration throughout the Nordic countries?
Denmark: Denmark destination page, 5 cities in Denmark worth visiting, 10 things to do in Copenhagen (+ map)
Iceland: Iceland destination page, What to do in Iceland in 4 days, 8 things to do in Iceland
Norway: Norway destination page
Sweden: Best things to do in Stockholm (travel guide + map), Sweden destination page, 10 series & films to travel while binge-watching
I can’t wait to come back to Vaxholm in the summer and enjoy biking around the island, sunbathing and swimming. Have you visited the Stockholm archipelago? Drop me a comment below.
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