Student blogs

As summer in Sweden slowly fades and the cooler days approach, it’s the perfect time to squeeze in one last adventure before the winter takes over. Vaxholm, a picturesque destination in the Stockholm archipelago, has always been on my list. And I thought, why not go now before it gets too cold? With the idea in mind, I started researching how to get there, what to do, and how to make the most of the trip.

Here’s a glimpse of my journey to Vaxholm and why it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to make the most of these last semi-summer days.

Getting to Vaxholm: A scenic boat ride

The first step in planning a trip to Vaxholm is figuring out how to get there. For me, the choice was simple—what’s the point of visiting an island in the Stockholm archipelago if you don’t travel by boat? After looking through my options, I came across the Waxholmsbolaget’s ferry service, and to my surprise, I found out that during the low season (September 14–April 29), you can travel with your SL card if it’s valid for 30 days or more! That was great news because it meant we could travel comfortably on a bigger boat without having to buy extra tickets. However, you can still travel with SL boats.

When boarding the boat, make sure you have your 30-day SL card ready. You’ll need to check in just like you would on a bus or train, but this time, the machine will print out a travel ticket. Keep that ticket handy because you’ll need to show it when you get off the boat at Vaxholm. Without it, you’ll either need to buy a new ticket on board or face a fine.

The boat ride took about 1.5 hours, and we enjoyed every second of it. We took the top deck to soak in the view, and the sights along the water were simply stunning. Stockholm’s green landscape, the glistening water, and the gentle breeze made the trip a peaceful escape from the busy city life.

A town like no other

Once we arrived in Vaxholm, I was immediately taken aback. The charming old houses gave the town a completely different feel from the modern architecture you see in most Swedish cities. It almost felt like I had stepped into another country, with the colorful wooden buildings and quaint streets adding to the town’s picturesque charm.

We spent the day walking through the old town, breathing in the fresh air, and sitting by the water, taking in the peaceful surroundings. It was the perfect way to unwind and feel connected to nature and history all at once.

Things to do in Vaxholm

If you’re planning a trip to Vaxholm, here are a few things I recommend:

Take a walk through the Old Town: The old houses, charming streets, and local shops give you a glimpse into the island’s history and culture.

Visit Vaxholm church: This beautiful church is one of the highlights of the town and offers a peaceful spot for reflection.

Explore Vaxholm fortress: The famous Vaxholm Castle (or fortress) is a must-see. It’s rich in history and offers beautiful views of the surrounding islands.

Heading back to Stockholm: The bus ride

After exploring Vaxholm, we decided to take the bus back to Stockholm to see the island from a different perspective. We hopped on the double-decker bus (No. 670) and enjoyed a scenic ride through Vaxholm and the surrounding areas before heading back to the city. It was a relaxing way to end the trip, giving us time to reflect on the day and take in the beauty of Stockholm from a different angle.

Final thoughts

Vaxholm is definitely a must-visit destination before the cold winter arrives. Whether you’re taking a boat ride, exploring the old town, or just sitting by the water enjoying the last days of summer, this trip offers something special. So, if you’ve been thinking about taking a break from your studies and exploring the Stockholm archipelago, Vaxholm should be at the top of your list! You can also check out ‘A day trip to Uppsala‘