Stockholm is a wonderful base for exploring the surrounding region. Within a couple of hours by public transport or car, you can reach historic towns, quiet countryside, and places that feel a world away from the city bustle. Whether you have one spare day or several, day trips from Stockholm reward the effort.
Why Take a Day Trip from Stockholm?
The Swedish capital has plenty to keep visitors busy for days, but the region around it is rich with history and natural scenery. Train services connect Stockholm to many nearby destinations quickly and conveniently, and since English is widely spoken across Sweden, getting around is straightforward for international visitors. Sweden uses the Swedish krona (SEK) rather than the euro, and like Stockholm itself, most places outside the city are largely cashless, so a card is all you need.
Uppsala: Sweden's Historic University City
Uppsala is one of the most popular day trips from Stockholm and easy to reach by train from Stockholm Central Station. The city has a long history as a centre of learning and religion in Sweden, and visitors typically come to see its cathedral, one of the largest in Scandinavia, as well as the grounds of its ancient university, among the oldest in Northern Europe. The city centre is compact and walkable, making it well suited to a day visit.
- Look out for the historic burial mounds on the edge of the city, associated with early Scandinavian kings.
- The botanical gardens near the university are worth a visit if you enjoy green spaces.
- Uppsala has a lively cafe culture and a range of places to eat in the city centre.
Check local tourism information in Uppsala for current opening hours and any entry fees before you visit, as these can change seasonally.
Sigtuna: Sweden's Oldest Town
Sigtuna is widely regarded as one of Sweden's oldest towns and makes for a quieter, more intimate day trip from Stockholm. Its main street is one of the shortest main streets of any Swedish town, lined with small shops and historic buildings. Medieval church ruins and old runestones are scattered through the town, giving it a distinctly ancient atmosphere.
- Sigtuna sits on the shore of Lake Malaren, offering pleasant waterside walks.
- The town is smaller than Uppsala, so half a day may be enough for most visitors.
- It can be combined with a visit to Uppsala for a fuller day out, as the two are relatively close to each other.
Other Day Trip Ideas Beyond Uppsala and Sigtuna
The region around Stockholm offers more than just these two towns. Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on an island in Lake Malaren around 11 km west of central Stockholm, is reachable on a half-day trip and is the permanent residence of the Swedish royal family. Further afield, the Stockholm Archipelago, consisting of around 30,000 islands, islets and rocks, offers boat trips and island hopping during the warmer months. Check local ferry and boat schedules, as services vary significantly by season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I travel to Uppsala and Sigtuna from Stockholm?A: Train services run regularly from Stockholm Central Station to Uppsala and are generally considered the easiest option. Sigtuna can be reached by bus or by a combination of train and bus. Check current timetables and fares through the relevant transport providers before you travel, as schedules and prices vary.
Q: Do I need cash for day trips from Stockholm?A: Like Stockholm itself, most towns in the region operate largely cashless. Card payment is the norm in shops, cafes and attractions. However, it is always worth checking in advance for any smaller or more rural sites that may have different arrangements.