5 of the best day trips to take from Stockholm

Birch island sits just 30 kilometres west of Stockholm, making it a perfect choice for stop number one in your car rental . Birka, the town on the island, is one of Sweden’s oldest towns, dating back to the Viking times.

Today the UNESCO World Heritage City is home to picture-postcard scenery, a wealth of ancient remains and a charming restaurant that attracts travellers from near and far. If you’re looking to step back in time as you are surrounded by nature, Birch Island is well worth a visit.

Driving time from Stockholm: 30-40 mins

Distance: 28.5 km

If you’re keen to experience Sweden’s right to roam and discover the great outdoors, Sörmlandsleden is well worth a visit. As one of the most popular trails and also the longest hiking route in the whole of Sweden, it’s certainly one that you should tick off the bucket list. During your hike, you’ll pass through spectacular pine forests, over rocky plateaus and walk alongside tranquil lakes. One of the most popular hikes on the 1000km trail is up to Kebnekaise: Sweden’s highest peak. 

The best bit? You’ll find this breathtakingly beautiful trail just a 30-40-minute drive from Stockholm city centre.

Driving time from Stockholm: 33 mins

Distance:  25.7 km

As this charming town lies around 100 miles north of Stockholm city centre, you’re best tacking it on to your trip to Sörmlandsleden. The small but characteristic town is famous for a few reasons, including being home to one of the world’s most renowned coffee companies So, if you’re a coffee-lover, it might just be worth the 100-mile trip for that alone. 

Beyond coffee and sweet treats, the town of Gävle is home to the Swedish Railway Museum, the spectacular Boulogne Skogen City Park and the action-packed Dome Adrenaline Zone for the thrill-seekers amongst us. Many people refer to Gävle as something of a hidden gem amongst the sleepy towns of Sweden. 

With so much to see and do in Gävle, you might even want to stay overnight  If you have the time to do so, we’d recommend it. 

Driving time from Stockholm: 1:56 hrs

Distance:  173 km

If the weather is pleasant during your time in Stockholm, one of the best day trips you can take is to the beautiful Göta Canal. If you’re looking for a relaxing day of discovery and a boat tour that is different from those you’ll find in and around the city, heading South is the way to go. Many visitors are under the impression that the Göta Canal leads all the way from the city of Stockholm to Gothenburg; but in fact, the canal ends at the town of Mem, almost 150 miles away from Stockholm. 

To discover the Göta Canal, you’ll need to head south on the E4 highway in your hire car. The trip should take you around three and a half hours. Believe us when we say it’s worth it. This is one you’ll want your camera for. 

Driving time from Stockholm: 3:26 hrs

Distance:  300.1 km

If you’re visiting Stockholm during the warmer months, a trip to the beach might take your fancy. Although there’s plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy in the city, this day trip is truly something special.

If you head around 125 miles south of Stockholm by car, you’ll reach one of Sweden’s most impressive beach destinations: The historic island of Gotland. Here you’ll find picturesque sandy beaches along with hiking and cycling routes. Furthermore, you can visit one of the 94 churches in the surrounding area before stopping by the delightful town of Visby, another Unesco World Heritage site. 

Driving time from Stockholm: 4:50 hrs (including ferry)

There you have it. Five seriously exciting and diverse day trips that you can embark on from the city of Stockholm.

Taking one or two of these road trips will allow you to discover a whole different side to Sweden. From beautiful beaches to world-class hiking routes, there’s a lot more to Stockholm than fikas, boat trips and Gamla Stan.