To my surprise, one of Stockholm’s greatest assets is Skargarden, an archipelago consisting of more than 25,000 islands. Many of these islands are uninhabited…some are closer in to Stockholm proper…others are more remote, turning into rugged, rocky islets. Thus, on every tourist’s top 5 list of things to see and do in Stockholm should include a tour through the archipelago.

Our first foray into the waters and islands of Skargarden was a bust. We made the unfortunate choice of picking a one-hour ferry boat trip to Vaxholm. If you are going to enjoy a leisurely troll through the blue waters and islands around Stockholm, you probably want to sit outside and enjoy the sun and views. Sadly, upon boarding the first boat, it was so crowded, we could not even turn around on the upper deck, let alone find a seat from which to enjoy a view of the area. Quickly boarding and then de-boarding, we re-selected a 2-hour circuitous route through the archipelago. Perfect!

So, the sights of Skargarden upon departure from the harbour at Nybrokajen, the Grand Hotel, and Grona Lund Tivoli.







Leaving the harbor proper....







Some of the more inhabited islands...notice the many houses painted in the traditional Swedish red.









Out in the archipelago....





Returning to the harbor....