Best of Vaxholm: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Stockholm , Sweden

Best of Vaxholm: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Stockholm’s archipelago is a world of 30,000 islands and skerries, but its true essence is captured in the charming town of Vaxholm.

On this self-guided tour, you’ll hear the stories behind Sweden’s coastal defense and the summer paradise that wealthy Stockholmers have cherished for over 150 years.

This tour starts and ends at the harbor in front of the historic Waxholms Hotel, with views of the imposing Vaxholm Fortress. You’ll weave through the Fishermen’s Town with its distinctive wooden architecture, stroll past centuries-old water pumps, and explore charming streets where Swedish summer life has flourished since steamboats first connected Vaxholm to Stockholm in the 1840s. Along the way, you’ll discover how this strategic defense point has shaped the town’s unique character.

You’ll hear stories about brave fishermen’s wives who rowed fresh herring to Stockholm markets each day, and the tale of a Polish-Lithuanian princess who chose imprisonment with her husband over freedom.

Available options

Best of Vaxholm: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

App for Android and iOS

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Stockholm’s archipelago is a world of 30,000 islands and skerries, but its true essence is captured in the charming town of Vaxholm. On this walking tour, you’ll hear the stories behind Sweden’s coastal defense and the summer paradise that wealthy Stockholmers have cherished for over 150 years.

This tour starts at the harbor in front of the historic Waxholms Hotel, with views of the imposing Vaxholm Fortress.

This self-guided audio tour starts and ends near the Vaxholm Farjeterminal, along the harbour.

Learn about Vaxholm Fortress which twice saved Stockholm from invasion.

Explore Battery Park (Batteriparken) with its hidden ammunition storage and cannon placements from the 1700s.

On this GPS-guided walk, you'll stroll through Batteriparken simplats and learn its history.

Walk through an authentic fishermen’s village with its old traditional homes and sample some tasty treats at Vaxholms Hembygdsgards Cafe.

Find the best spots for traditional Swedish fika or authentic local herring dishes at Camilles Tradgard and Cafe.

Hear the story behind the town’s iconic bell tower with its golden rooster (kyrktupp).

See Sweden’s oldest charity donation box from the mid-1700s with its touching inscription.

Take this walk through Vaxholm to experience the perfect blend of Swedish defense history, maritime traditions, and summer holiday charm in the capital of Stockholm’s archipelago.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour

Food and drink

Transportation

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

This self-guided audio tour starts outside Vaxholm Farjeterminal opposite Waxholms Hotell. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE

- Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

- Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

- You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

- For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Stockholm

Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is an archipelago city of 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. Known for its stunning waterfront, rich Viking history, and vibrant cultural scene, Stockholm offers a unique blend of modern urban life and historic charm. The city is also renowned for its innovative design, eco-friendly initiatives, and high quality of life.

Top Attractions

Gamla Stan

The Old Town of Stockholm is a charming labyrinth of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic sites. It's the heart of Stockholm and a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum houses the only preserved 17th-century ship in the world, the Vasa, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. It's a fascinating look at maritime history and shipbuilding.

Museum 1-2 hours 170 SEK

Skansen

Skansen is the world's oldest open-air museum, showcasing Swedish history and culture through historic buildings, animals, and traditional crafts. It's a great place for families and history enthusiasts.

Cultural Half day 170 SEK

ABBA The Museum

A fun and interactive museum dedicated to the famous Swedish pop group ABBA. It's a must-visit for fans of the band and those interested in music history.

Museum 1-2 hours 250 SEK

Drottningholm Palace

The private residence of the Swedish royal family, Drottningholm Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The palace and its gardens offer a glimpse into royal life and Swedish history.

Historical Half day 150-200 SEK

Must-Try Local Dishes

Swedish Meatballs

A classic Swedish dish made with ground meat (usually beef and pork), served with gravy, lingonberry jam, and mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes.

Dinner Can be made with gluten-free breadcrumbs and vegetarian versions are available.

Surströmming

Fermented Baltic herring, known for its strong smell. It's typically served with potatoes, sour cream, and onions.

Snack Not suitable for those sensitive to strong smells.

Gravlax

Cured salmon, traditionally served with mustard sauce, dill, and bread.

Appetizer Gluten-free and often available in vegetarian versions.

Kanelbullar

Cinnamon buns, a Swedish favorite, often enjoyed with coffee during fika (a traditional coffee break).

Dessert Can be made gluten-free and vegan.

Popular Activities

Kayaking in the archipelago Hiking in the national parks Biking around the city Fika (coffee break) at a local café Boat tours in the archipelago Spa treatments Visiting museums and historic sites Attending cultural events and festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor festivals. It's the best time for exploring the archipelago and enjoying outdoor activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swedish
Widely spoken: English, Finnish, Arabic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Swedish Krona (SEK)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Stockholm is generally safe with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.