My partner and I are spending four days in Stockholm. We would love to do a day trip around the islands. I've become very frustrated with the task of researching and finding the right approach. There is a lot to choice from and I'm sure this will be the only time we visit. Please and thank you!
I'm finding this Official Stockholm website helpful: http://www.visitstockholm.com/en/To-Do/Tips/The-archipelago-from-easy-access-to-wilderness/
Emily, A couple of potential options: 1) You could take one of the tours that takes you through the archipelago. These are usually about 3 hours. 2) You could go to one of the islands. Fjäderholmen is the closest (about 25 minutes away). It is a small island with some craftspeople and shops, a smokery, a casual restaurant (I forgot the name) and a more expensive restaurant (Fjäderholmarna's Krog - you probably need to book). If you just want a relaxing lunch or dinner, it could be nice to go to take a boat to this this island for a meal. You will get to enjoy the scenery on the way there and sit outside with a lovely view. www.fjaderholmarna.se If you want to go a bit farther, I like the island of Utö. It is a nice island to walk around on. However it is a long boat ride from Stockholm to this island (3+ hours). I didn't take the boat. Instead, I took the train to Västerhaninge and then the bus to Årsta Brygga where you can take a shorter ferry ride. This may be a bit much on a short trip. Sandhamn is another popular island, although I have never been there. Stromma Kanalbolaget and Waxholmsbolaget are two companies that have boats to the various islands. www.waxholmsbolaget.se/visitor/archipelago-traffic/plan-trip/ www.stromma.se/en/Skargard/Stromma-Kanalbolaget/Day-cruises/
Check Grinda and Finnhamn. Finnhamn has little cabins (and a sauna) that you can rent while you are there and is just about perfect for an overnight trip. Grinda can be done in an afternoon, but is far enough out to give you a taste of the island. Sandhamn is also good, but you'll spend most of your time on the boat.
In my opinion, Fjäderholm is too close to the city give you you a good feel for the islands.