Stockholm is a city built on water, surrounded by thousands of islands, making it a natural choice for memorable full-day excursions. Whether you’re eager to paddle through the archipelago, sail on a yacht, explore Viking history, or enjoy VIP sightseeing, Stockholm offers a variety of options that suit different interests and energy levels. One of our favorites is the Stockholm Archipelago kayaking adventure, where you can learn to paddle, spot white-tailed eagles, and take a refreshing swim in the Baltic Sea—an active way to see the city’s stunning natural scenery. We also love the Private VIP city tour by limousine for those who prefer a more relaxed, personalized experience of Stockholm’s top sights, perfect for time-pressed travelers wanting a luxurious touch.
Stockholm’s full-day tours are incredibly diverse, ranging from adventures on the water like sailing and kayaking, to history-rich Viking explorations, and private, chauffeur-driven tours. Each offers a different way to connect with the city’s unique charm, whether through outdoor activities or culture. Here’s a detailed look at some of the best options to help you decide which is right for your trip.
1. Stockholm: Full-Day Archipelago Kayaking Adventure
At number 1, this kayaking tour takes you into the heart of the famed Stockholm Archipelago in a hands-on way. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll learn how to paddle safely, then glide past the thousands of islands dotted with charming cottages and lush forests. The tour includes a tasty lunch on a private island, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the scenery. The route offers spectacular viewpoints, perfect for photos and enjoying the tranquility of Swedish nature. For the adventurous, there’s cliff jumping—if you’re brave enough! The entire day is complemented by air-conditioned transportation to and from the islands, making logistics seamless.
What sets this tour apart is the balance of activity and comfort. The guides are praised for their helpfulness, and with waterproof gear provided, you can focus on the experience rather than gear worries. Reviewers highlight how “spending the day this way was an unforgettable experience,” and many mention how the peaceful silence and breathtaking views create lasting memories. The price reflects its value: for $203 per person, you get a full day of outdoor fun, local cuisine, and incredible scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a truly immersive day on the water with expert guidance and a taste of island life.
2. Full-Day Stockholm Archipelago Sailing Tour
For around $345, the sailing tour offers a different perspective. Instead of paddling, you’ll hop aboard a comfortable yacht with an experienced captain, exploring the untouched wilderness of the archipelago. The trip is designed for those who prefer a more relaxed day on the water, soaking up the sun and enjoying the gentle sway of the boat. The boat, a spacious 48.5-foot yacht, is praised for its comfort, and the lunch served onboard is often highlighted as a special part of the experience.
Guests mention that even with some rain, the trip still captivated them, emphasizing the serenity of sailing among the islands. The tour includes a ferry ride from central Stockholm to Vaxholm, making it an easy, scenic start. It’s perfect if you want to see the islands without the physical exertion of kayaking or hiking.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a peaceful, scenic day on a yacht, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the views.
3. Private Full Day Viking History Tour from Stockholm Including Sigtuna and Uppsala
At number 3, this private Viking history tour offers a personalized, in-depth look at Sweden’s ancient past. Over approximately nine hours, you’ll visit key Viking sites like Sigtuna—Sweden’s oldest town—and Uppsala, home to impressive burial grounds and the towering cathedral. The tour includes stops at Broby Bro runestones, the reconstructed Jarlabanke bridge, and Arkils tingstad, an ancient assembly site.
What makes this tour stand out is the expert guide, Olaf, who shares fascinating stories about Viking legends, runes, and land transformations from paganism to Christianity. The tour also includes a Swedish “fika” (coffee break) at Uppsala, adding a cultural touch. Reviewers praise Olaf’s knowledge and the detailed explanations about Viking life, making it especially engaging for history enthusiasts.
Costing about $479, the tour’s private nature ensures a flexible, tailored experience. It’s perfect if you want an exclusive, educational dive into Sweden’s Viking roots, away from crowded museums.
Bottom Line: Best for history buffs eager to explore Viking sites with a knowledgeable guide in a personalized setting.
4. Stockholm: Winter Snowshoe Full-Day Hike
Number 4 on our list is an 8-hour snowshoe hike through Stockholm’s winter landscape. It’s ideal if you’re visiting in the colder months and want to experience a different side of the city’s nature. Led by guide Tigo, you’ll trek through snow-covered forests, spot deer tracks, and cross frozen lakes—just minutes from the city center. The tour balances physical activity with comfort, as you learn how to walk on snow and ice, and enjoy a warming lunch cooked over a campfire.
Guests highlight how even if they weren’t expecting snow, the scenery was stunning, and the experience was still enjoyable. The tour provides insight into Swedish ecosystems and outdoor skills, making it suitable for active travelers or those wanting a scenic winter day.
Costing $176, it’s an affordable way to combine outdoor adventure with cultural insight, especially since the guide customizes the experience based on weather conditions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for outdoor lovers, especially in winter, who want to combine physical activity with cultural learning.
5. Full Day Viking Tour with Fika Swedish Coffee Break
This full-day Viking tour offers a comprehensive look at Scandinavia’s legendary past, with visits to Viking runestones, ancient assembly sites, and the old settlement at Gamla Uppsala. The tour includes stops at the Valentina runestones, Arkils tingstad, and Granby farm, where you’ll try the traditional Swedish “fika”—a coffee and pastry break—at a historic farm.
The tour is particularly praised for the knowledgeable guide, Calle, who shares vivid stories about Viking legends. The visit to Uppsala Cathedral and the church ruins in Sigtuna ties the ancient Viking history to modern Swedish culture. The tour’s value is notable at $213, with detailed explanations and visits to key Viking landmarks.
Guests appreciate how the guide’s enthusiasm makes history come alive, and the coffee break adds a cozy, cultural touch. It’s good for history-minded travelers who want a full-day, engaging experience without strenuous activity.
Bottom Line: Great for history lovers who enjoy storytelling and cultural breaks in a well-organized itinerary.
6. Private full day VIP city tour by limousine car in Stockholm
Number 6 offers a luxurious, private limousine experience, ideal for travelers who want to see Stockholm in style. This customized 8-hour tour covers the city’s highlights, including the Stockholm City Hall, Royal Palace, and Vasa Museum—with guided inside visits at some sites. The limousine allows for quick, comfortable transitions between dispersed sights, saving time and energy.
What makes this tour appealing is the flexibility—it can be tailored to your interests. The guide provides insights into the city’s landmarks, sharing stories behind the Vasa ship and the Nobel Banquet hall. Reviewers love the personalized service and the convenience of private transportation.
This tour costs $629, which is a premium but reflects the comfort and exclusivity. It’s best suited for travelers wanting the ultimate hassle-free, private sightseeing experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer comfort, privacy, and a tailored route showcasing Stockholm’s top sights.
7. Stockholm: Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour with Lunch
Number 7 is a guided sightseeing tour combining popular attractions like the Vasa Museum, Drottningholm Palace, and Gamla Stan. The tour includes inside visits, guided walks, and a lunch break at a local restaurant. It’s designed to give a rundown of Stockholm’s history, architecture, and royal sights in about 7 hours.
Guests praise the engaging guide, Hans, and the well-paced itinerary. You’ll see both the old town and modern landmarks, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want a structured, informative day. The tour’s value is evident in the carefully curated stops and insider insights.
At roughly $130 (price may vary), it offers good value for a full day of sightseeing with a relaxed pace and local cuisine.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking an all-in-one city overview with guided explanations and cultural context.
8. Stockholm: VIP full day city tour by limousine in Stockholm
Closing our list is the VIP limousine tour, which offers an exclusive, customizable experience. Up to 7 people can enjoy this luxury 7-hour tour with a private guide, visiting key sites like the Vasa Museum, City Hall, Old Town, and scenic viewpoints such as Fjällgatan and Monteliusvägen.
The full itinerary can be tailored to your interests, with flexible timing and private guides providing detailed commentary. Guests love the luxury feel and the ability to avoid crowds, making it ideal for special occasions or travelers who prefer an intimate experience. The cost is $1,345 per group, which includes the comfort of a private vehicle and personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers valuing privacy, comfort, and a customized, high-end experience of Stockholm’s highlights.
How to Choose Your Perfect Stockholm Full-Day Tour
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you love outdoor activities, the kayaking or snowshoe hikes might be best. For history buffs, the Viking tours offer in-depth stories and sites, while those seeking luxury can opt for the VIP limousine trips.
Check the availability early, especially for popular tours like the full-day sailing or private VIP options**. Consider combining a cultural tour like Stockholm’s guided sightseeing with lunch with more active days if you want variety.
Final Thoughts
Stockholm’s full-day tours cater to a wide range of preferences—from active outdoor adventures like kayaking and snowshoeing to luxurious private city experiences. The archipelago kayaking tour offers a unique way to connect with nature, while the private limousine tour ensures a stress-free, personalized day. For history lovers, the Viking sites and Uppsala excursions deliver rich stories and cultural insights.
No matter your choice, booking early ensures you get your preferred date. With options in every price range and activity level, Stockholm’s full-day tours promise a memorable way to experience this beautiful city and its surroundings.