Surrounded by an impressive archipelago lying between Lake Mälaren and the Baltic Sea, Sweden’s capital city has carefully maintained this collection of around 30,000 islands, islets, and reefs, with approximately 150 being populated. Here are our top five picks from them all.

Vaxholm, the nearest

Beyond being merely a small harbor (often bustling on sunny days) and a quiet pine forest (with lovely beaches), this 'capital' of the archipelago offers picturesque scenes featuring colorful wooden homes, cobblestone lanes, and a former fortress now converted into a museum detailing the area's protective history. To fully appreciate everything, consider walking around the island (which spans 10 kilometers) as it should take approximately four hours.

• 25 kilometers northeast of Stockholm
• 1 hour away by boat from Strandvägen

Värmdö, the most cultural

The island has become a beloved spot for locals primarily because of the cherished Gustavsberg porcelain factory (founded in 1825). Nowadays, this town hosts a center dedicated to the craft of ceramics featuring a museum, factory store, workshops run by ceramists, and several cafes. Additionally, the creator of the internationally renowned baby carrier company BabyBjörn established an art and design foundation called Artipelag on the same island.

• 25 kilometers to the east of Stockholm
• 30 minutes by bus from Slussen

Grinda, the most coastal

Feel like taking a swim? Grinda should be your go-to spot, an island favored by Stockholmers known for its sandy shores and rugged coves. This place was home to Stockholm's original beach retreat back in the 1940s, evident from the assortment of rustic wooden cabins available for rent, complete with some featuring personal saunas. Truly embodying the essence of the Swedish way of life.

• 50 kilometers to the northeast of Stockholm
• A 2-hour boat trip from Strandvägen

Sandhamn, the most famous

TV show The Sandhamn Murders Place the island on the map, even though it retains an air of timelessness, or perhaps gives off that post-summer vibe similar to how the Isle of Wight returns quietly to its residents once the busy regatta season ends. The distinctive essence of perpetual Sweden permeates the area with its crimson homes along one shore and untamed beaches stretching across the opposite side.

• 50 kilometers east of Stockholm
• In summertime, it takes 3 hours by boat from Strömkajen.

Utö, the wildest

Not only is it the wildest but also the biggest populated island, boasting the highest amount of sunshine due to its southernmost location, along with being one of the least spoiled areas. There are three compelling reasons why visitors should consider coming here: the opportunity to explore on foot (a coastal path follows the north shore, stretching about 15 kilometers or taking around five hours for a full circuit); through kayaking; or via cycling, all while passing by or navigating among pristine beaches caressed by clear waters on one side, rugged cliffs on the opposite side, and breathtaking vistas of the Baltic Sea at every turn.

• 50 kilometers south of Stockholm
• 2.5 hours by boat from Strömkajen (during summertime)