DestinationsMarch 17, 2026

Most Beautiful Islands in Stockholm's Archipelago

Stockholm's archipelago is one of the world's most impressive – over 30,000 islands, islets, and skerries spread across the Baltic Sea from the heart of the Swedish capital. With a rented boat, you have the freedom to island-hop and discover places that most tourists never reach. Here are six islands you shouldn't miss.

Sandhamn – Sailors' Paradise

Sandhamn, at the outer edge of the archipelago, is Stockholm's answer to Saint-Tropez. This small island has been the sailors' gathering place for over a century, and the Royal Swedish Yacht Club has its roots here. In summer, the guest harbour fills with sailboats from all over Scandinavia, and the atmosphere is electric.

The island has sandy beaches (Trouville Beach is the most famous), charming wooden houses, restaurants, and a centuries-old bakery that has served fresh bread since the 1700s. The distance from Stockholm city centre is approximately 2.5 hours by motorboat or 4 hours by sail.

Don't miss: The Sandhamn Regatta in June, or an evening stroll around the island's southern tip.

Grinda – The Family Island

Grinda is one of the archipelago's most visited islands, and it's easy to see why. The island offers beautiful sandy beaches, forests, hiking trails, and a popular inn with restaurant. It's perfect for families – children can swim, explore, and play while adults enjoy a drink on the terrace.

Grinda is about 1.5 hours by motorboat from Stockholm and makes an excellent stop on the way to the outer archipelago. The guest harbour has good capacity, but July weekends are busy.

Tip: Try kayaking around the island for a different perspective – the water is shallow and safe.

Möja – Authentic Island Life

Möja lies in the outer archipelago and gives you a taste of genuine island living. Year-round residents make their living from fishing and tourism, and the pace is far calmer than on Sandhamn. Möja has a small community with a shop, café, and fish restaurant.

The island gained fame through the Swedish TV series "Saltön" and attracts visitors who prefer authenticity over glamour. Around Möja, there are countless anchorages and islets to explore.

Tip: Visit Wikström's Fish – a legendary fish shop and smokehouse that has been operating for generations.

Utö – The Outermost Pearl

Utö is one of the most southerly islands in the archipelago and boasts one of Stockholm's finest sandy beaches. The island has a fascinating mining history stretching back to the 12th century – the iron mine here was one of Sweden's oldest. Today, you can visit the mining museum and descend into the old tunnels.

It's approximately 3 hours by motorboat from Stockholm to Utö, but the journey is worth it. The landscape is wild and beautiful, with pine forests, cliffs, and extraordinary light.

Don't miss: Utö Värdshus, a historic inn with sea views.

Vaxholm – The Archipelago Capital

Vaxholm is the most accessible of the archipelago towns – just 45 minutes by motorboat from Stockholm city centre. The charming wooden architecture, the imposing Vaxholm Fortress in the strait, and the excellent restaurants make it a perfect first stop.

Vaxholm serves as the gateway to the archipelago, and many use the town as a base for further exploration. The guest harbour is large and well-organised.

Tip: Visit the fortress – take the short boat ride across the strait and explore the museum within its walls.

Fjäderholmarna – Urban Paradise

Fjäderholmarna is the closest island group to Stockholm city centre – just 20 minutes by boat from Nybrokajen. Here you'll find artisans, smokehouses, restaurants, and craft breweries. It's a perfect half-day destination for those with limited time.

Despite its proximity to the city, it feels like another world. The small islands offer peaceful paths, boathouses, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Tip: Try the smoked salmon dinner at Fjäderholmarnas Krog – a classic.