11 Jul
Things to do in Vaxholm – tips on attractions, activities and boat trips
Looking for things to do in Vaxholm? This charming archipelago town just outside Stockholm offers a unique combination of nature, culture, swimming and boating. Whether you're planning a day trip, a romantic weekend or a corporate kickoff, there's something for everyone. With proximity to both the sea and city life, you get the best of both worlds. In this guide, you'll find out everything you need to know about what to do in Vaxholm, from boat trips with the Strandreider to attractions, food, swimming and family-friendly experiences.
Discover the archipelago from Vaxholm with boat tours and charters
One of the most memorable ways to experience Vaxholm is from the water. Stepping aboard a ship and watching the archipelago landscape glide by gives a unique feeling of freedom. With Strandrederiet you can book private boat charters out into the Stockholm archipelago. Choose between evening cruises with dinner, day trips with a swimming stop or transport to islands such as Sandhamn, Grinda or Finnhamn. For companies, a charter is an effective way to create togetherness, and for wedding couples we offer the opportunity to celebrate love on board. Our tours depart from central Stockholm.
Attractions in Vaxholm with history, fortress and archipelago romance
Vaxholm offers both idyll and history. The main attraction is Vaxholm Fortress, which is located on an island in the middle of the strait. It has protected the entrance to Stockholm since the 1500th century and today houses a museum with exhibitions about archipelago defense and military history. The ferry to the fortress departs from the quay in the center and offers a nice view. In the rest of Vaxholm you will find wooden houses, cobblestone alleys and charming small streets. Take a walk along Strandgatan and discover galleries, shops and historical environments in the oldest parts of the city.
Activities for children and families in Vaxholm
For families with children, there is plenty to do in Vaxholm. On Eriksö you will find a beach, barbecue areas, an outdoor gym and a playground. Vaxholm Fortress offers family-friendly exhibitions and activities during the summer. A boat trip is an adventure in itself, especially for children, and sometimes you can see both birds and seals. There are several ice cream parlors in the center and during the summer weeks, markets, musical performances and other family activities are arranged.
Eating in Vaxholm at restaurants, cafes and ice cream parlors
Vaxholm offers a tasty archipelago experience with something for everyone. Several restaurants and cafés are beautifully situated by the water, perfect for lunch, coffee or dinner in the sun. Here are some of our favorites.
Café Hembygdsgården
A classic summer café with homemade pastries, sandwiches and pies in an idyllic garden setting. The view over the water and the red wooden houses makes this a real gem for locals and tourists alike.
The harbor pub
Located by the quay in the middle of Vaxholm. Classic archipelago dishes such as shrimp sandwiches, herring and herring plates are served here. Relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating that looks directly out onto the boating life in the harbor.
Bistro Kastellet
Located at Kastellet, in the middle of Vaxholm Fortress. Here history is combined with taste experiences. The menu varies according to the season and is popular with both tourists and conference guests.
The galley
A small neighborhood restaurant with a lot of personality. It serves delicious lunches, homemade dishes and often pastries from local suppliers. Cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
Bistro Magazine
A modern restaurant with marine influences. Here you can enjoy dishes such as char, seafood pasta and grilled lamb. The interior is stylish and the location by the water gives an extra archipelago feel.
Ice cream on Hamngatan
For ice cream lovers, this is a must. It offers homemade gelato in creative flavors and plenty of seating along the quayside. Perfect after a day at the beach or boat.
Swimming areas and nature experiences in Vaxholm
Vaxholm has several nice swimming spots, both for families with children and those looking for peace. We list them here.
Eriksö bathing area
One of Vaxholm's most popular swimming areas. There is a beach, piers, barbecue areas, toilets and a large grassy area. Perfect for families with children and picnic days.
Norrhamnsbadet
Located close to the center and offers both a beach and a pier. Well-visited but still quiet and inviting.
Tenöbadet on Bogesund
A lesser-known but beautiful swimming spot at Bogesundslandet. Here you can swim from cliffs or small sandy beaches in a natural environment. Quiet even during high season.
Excursions to islands such as Tynningö Rindö and Grinda
Vaxholm is an ideal starting point for island hopping in the archipelago. Tynningö is quiet and green with nice cycle paths and bathing spots. On Rindö you can explore nature and food crafts with a dairy, café and historical sites. Grinda attracts with a restaurant, nature trails and rock swimming. With Strandrederiet you can plan a tailor-made route where you choose where you stay and for how long.
Seasonal activities in Vaxholm all year round
Vaxholm is a vibrant destination regardless of the season. Spring offers blooming nature and birdsong. Summer is full of life with swimming, boats and outdoor dining. Autumn offers colorful nature experiences and cozy cafes. Winter offers Christmas markets, ice skating opportunities and winter archipelago cruises.
Corporate activities and group experiences in the archipelago
Do you want to arrange a kickoff, conference or party with your company? Vaxholm offers proximity to the city and an archipelago atmosphere at the same time. We at Strandrederiet take care of boat trips with meetings, dinner, entertainment and beachcombing. You can meet in the lounge, hang out on deck or dock at an island for joint activities.
How to get to Vaxholm from Stockholm
You can get to Vaxholm in several ways. By car, the journey takes about 40 minutes from central Stockholm. SL's bus 670 from the University of Technology reaches Vaxholm in under an hour. The most scenic and comfortable option is by sea. For larger groups who want to travel together, we recommend booking a boat taxi to Vaxholm . This provides a smooth, flexible and experience-rich journey directly from the city to the archipelago, perfect for corporate events, weddings or private parties.
Accommodation in Vaxholm
If you want to stay overnight in Vaxholm, there are several charming options. Here, proximity to the archipelago is combined with the tranquility of a small town.
Vaxholms Hotel
A classic hotel by the quay with views of the strait and Kastellet. Here you stay in the middle of Vaxholm, within walking distance of restaurants, shops and boats. The hotel also has a restaurant, bar and conference facilities.
Vaxholms Bed & Breakfast
A personal and affordable accommodation in a charming villa close to the city centre. Breakfast is served in the garden during the summer and the hosts are happy to give tips on local experiences.
Kastellets Bed & Breakfast
Would you like to sleep in an old defensive structure? At Kastellet you live in the middle of history with a view over the water. Unique accommodation that suits couples, families and small groups.
10 things you shouldn't miss when visiting Vaxholm
- A boat trip with Strandrederiet through the archipelago
- Vaxholm Fortress and Museum
- Coffee at Hembygdsgården's Café
- Swimming at Eriksö or Norrhamnsbadet
- Excursion to Rindö with cheese and brewery
- Shopping and crafts in Vaxholm city center
- Ice cream on the quay in the evening sun
- Hiking in Bogesundslandet
- Christmas market in December
- Dinner on board an evening cruise
Now you have a complete overview of things to do in Vaxholm, whether you are traveling with children, planning a corporate event or want to experience the tranquility of the archipelago. Do you want to book a tour, organize an event or get help with the planning? Contact us at Strandrederiet and we will help you experience Vaxholm from its best side.
