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Jaume Plensa's sculpture "Ainsa IV" at Artipelag in the Stockholm archipelago

Photo: Samuel Lind

Categories: Tourist attractions

Archipelago attractions

Publish date: 19 November 2024

Art museums surrounded by nature and historical smithing villages; here are some of the Stockholm archipelago's best attractions.

The archipelago is packed with culture. Explore forts and citadels, as well as art exhibitions, museums, and events. It is easy to see how the archipelago inspired some of Sweden’s most famous artists and writers.

5 highlights in the Stockholm archipelago

  • Vaxholm Fortress – The old military fort overlooking Vaxholm is one of the archipelago's most famous attractions. It was built in the 16th century, on orders from Gustav Vasa, to guard Stockholm's inlet against enemy warships. In 1935 it was deemed a cultural heritage and today it serves as a hotel, conference center, and museum.
  • Batteri Arholma – Another military attraction in the archipelago. A top-secret naval battery constructed during the Cold War on the island of Arholma. Although the installation was still in active use in the 2000s, it's been converted into a museum since.
Artipelag-liten.jpg
Melina Hägglund
  • Artipelag – Arguably the most famous art destination in the Stockholm archipelago. The gallery is beautifully located, surrounded by nature and a sculpture trail. Easily reached by taking public transportation from Slussen. Visitors who prefer the scenic route can take the summer ferry instead.
  • The Gustavsberg Porcelain Museum – A branch of Nationalmuseum. Open on weekends, The Gustavberg Porcelain Museum has an impressive collection of 45,000 objects, all created in the world-renowned factory.
  • Ängsö Nationalpark – One of the Stockholm region's two national parks is located on an island in the northern archipelago. Ängsö is famous for its unique nature a diverse flora of rare flowers, and its preserved 19th century farmlands.