Stockholm is a city built on water — more than 14 islands connected by 57 bridges, with the Baltic Sea on one side and countless waterways weaving through downtown. This makes it an ideal place for canoe and kayak experiences that let you see the city and its surroundings from a new perspective. Whether you want a quick city tour, a peaceful paddle in the archipelago, or a winter adventure with steaming sauna breaks, Stockholm offers a variety of options that suit all tastes and skill levels. We especially like the winter kayaking trips with sauna and fika, which combine outdoor adventure with cozy Swedish traditions, and the full-day archipelago trips, where you’ll explore remote islands and enjoy local food.
In this list, you’ll find everything from beginner-friendly city tours to challenging multi-hour expeditions into the wild. Check out the full lineup below for something that matches your level of adventure and your schedule.
What kinds of tours made the list?
Our top picks include city kayaking tours like the Stockholm City Kayak Tour, which are perfect for those short on time or new to paddling. For a deeper dive into the archipelago, options like the Full-Day Archipelago Kayaking Adventure and the 2-Hour Guided City Tour provide immersive experiences with fantastic scenery and local stories.
If you’re seeking winter experiences, the Winter Kayaking with Sauna and Fika offers a unique combination of cold-weather paddling, warm drinks, and relaxing sauna breaks. For a more exclusive outing, the Private Sunset Kayak Tour takes you at sunset for a peaceful, personalized adventure.
Now, let’s look closely at each of these top experiences.
1. Stockholm: Winter Kayaking, Swedish Fika, and Hot Sauna
At number 1, this winter kayaking experience combines outdoor adventure with quintessential Swedish comforts. Over 3 to 4.5 hours, you’ll paddle around the Stockholm Archipelago in a dry suit, staying warm despite the chilly air. The route focuses on the tranquil, mostly untouched islands around Vaxholm, a popular seaside town just 30 minutes from the city center. The highlight is enjoying Swedish Fika — coffee and a pastry — outdoors, followed by a relaxing hot sauna to warm up after your paddle.
Guests love the knowledgeable staff and the ease of public transportation to the meeting point. The small-group size, warm gear, and scenic winter landscape make this a memorable, authentic experience. If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Stockholm’s natural beauty in the colder months, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous spirits who want winter scenery, a cozy fika, and a sauna break — all in just a few hours.
2. 1-Day Small-Group Stockholm Archipelago Kayak Tour
This full-day kayaking tour offers approximately eight hours of exploring the islands just outside Stockholm. The small group (max eight people) ensures personalized attention, and all equipment and instruction are included, making it accessible even for beginners. The day starts with a drive to Dalarö, a charming seaside village, then paddling across the Baltic Sea to explore different islands and natural spots.
Midday features a picnic lunch cooked around a campfire on a deserted island, with plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery. Guests rave about the fabulous sausages and the peaceful environment, emphasizing the friendly hosts and well-organized itinerary. It’s suitable for those looking for a full-day adventure with a mix of paddling, wildlife, and local culture.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want a thorough exploration of Stockholm’s archipelago with great food and small-group intimacy.
3. Stockholm City Kayak Tour
With a guided kayak tour of Stockholm city, you’ll see the Swedish capital from a fresh angle in just 2 to 4 hours. This beginner-friendly trip starts with a quick safety briefing and then lets you paddle past landmarks like City Hall, Riddarholmen, and the colorful old town of Gamla Stan.
The tour is ideal for first-timers or anyone short on time but still eager to experience Stockholm’s waterways intimately. Guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories about the city’s history, architecture, and hidden corners. All gear is provided, so just bring your sense of adventure.
Bottom Line: A quick, informative way to explore Stockholm’s landmarks while getting a good workout.
4. Stockholm: Archipelago Islands Kayak Tour and Outdoor Picnic
This archipelago kayaking trip with outdoor picnic lasts 4 to 8 hours and offers a scenic paddle past Vaxholm’s iconic fortress and colorful cottages. The tour emphasizes nature and local culture, with stories from your guide about the islands’ history. After paddling through peaceful waters, you’ll stop on a remote island for a Swedish fika — coffee, pastries, and a swim if weather permits.
Guests highlight the friendly guide, the beautiful route, and the relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for beginners, this tour combines gentle paddling with cultural sights and plenty of time to enjoy the landscape.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those seeking a leisurely day immersed in nature with authentic Swedish fika.
5. Stockholm: Winter Kayaking, Swedish Fika and Hot Sauna Experience
Another beloved winter tour, this short but sweet winter kayaking offers about three hours of paddling in the quiet waters around Vaxholm. Staying mostly warm in dry suits and winter gear, you’ll explore the islands and hear stories about the natural surroundings. The tour includes a stop for a warm drink and snacks, followed by a sauna session that’s both invigorating and relaxing.
Guests praise the well-organized logistics, the extra clothes provided, and the opportunity to experience Stockholm’s winter landscape authentically. This tour is suited for those who want a shorter, focused outdoor adventure paired with traditional Swedish relaxation.
Bottom Line: Great for winter explorers who want a compact experience with the warmth of fika and sauna.
6. Stockholm Archipelago Tour by Kayak
This full-day guided kayak tour takes you across the thousands of islands that make up Stockholm’s famous archipelago. Starting with a safety briefing, you’ll paddle through both sheltered waters and open sea, spotting bird colonies and ancient fortresses along the way. The tour includes organic, restaurant-prepared lunch on an island and time for swimming or relaxing.
Guests appreciate the high-quality equipment and the knowledgeable guides who share insights about the landscape and wildlife. The tour suits active travelers comfortable with longer paddles and those eager to see remote, less-visited islands.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a comprehensive day of paddling, nature, and local food, this tour delivers.
7. Stockholm: Sunset Kayak Tour on Lake Mälaren with Tea & Cake
Experience Stockholm’s lakes at their most magical during this sunset kayak tour. Over 4.5 hours, you’ll paddle on Lake Mälaren, enjoy a Swedish fika on the beach, and look out for beavers in the twilight. The quiet evening scenery combined with the warm drinks creates a peaceful ending to your day.
Guests comment on the calm, scenic environment and the chance to see local wildlife. It’s suitable for anyone who enjoys gentle paddling and stunning sunsets.
Bottom Line: Ideal for romantics and sunset lovers seeking a tranquil paddling experience.
8. Stockholm: Guided Kayak City Tour & Optional Midsummer Meal
This city kayak tour with a midsummer meal option combines active sightseeing with cultural cuisine. Over 2 to 4 hours, you paddle past the city’s landmarks like City Hall, the Riddarholmen church, and the old town. If you stay for the evening, enjoy a traditional Swedish midsummer meal afterward.
Guests mention the smooth handling of the kayaks even for beginners, and the knowledgeable guide’s storytelling. It’s a flexible option for those wanting a quick city overview with a cultural touch.
Bottom Line: Great for short visits, families, and anyone wanting a taste of Stockholm from the water.
9. Stockholm: Full-Day Archipelago Kayaking Adventure
This full-day expedition offers 8 hours of paddling, swimming, and island exploring. You’ll see iconic spots, learn from your guide about the archipelago’s ecology, and enjoy a fresh lunch on a private island. For the more adventurous, there’s even the option to do some cliff jumping.
Guests describe it as a perfect day of paddling with a friendly guide who balances instruction and free exploration. Suitable for those with some paddling experience or high fitness levels, this tour provides an enriching experience of the region’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers looking for a full immersion into the islands with plenty of wildlife and scenic highlights.
10. Stockholm: Kayaking tour around Vaxholm Archipelago with Fika
This Vaxholm kayaking tour with fika showcases the highlights of the region’s historic fortress and charming fishing villages. Over about four hours, you’ll paddle past Vaxholm Fortress, scenic green islands, and old cottages before stopping for a classic Swedish fika on a quiet island.
Guests praise the calm water conditions, the friendly guide, and the scenic route. It’s perfect for beginners and those wanting a relaxed day with cultural sights and fika.
Bottom Line: A balanced trip with sightseeing, relaxation, and plenty of Swedish charm.
11. Stockholm: 2-Hour Guided Kayak Tour in City Center
For a quick taste of Stockholm’s waterways, this 2-hour city kayak tour offers a short but sweet introduction. Paddle past landmarks like the old town, the old prison, and City Hall with a knowledgeable guide sharing lively stories.
Guests find it ideal for a first-time experience or a short activity amid sightseeing. All gear is included, and it’s suitable for beginners.
Bottom Line: A quick, fun way to see Stockholm from the water in a manageable timeframe.
12. Stockholm Archipelago: Fun-Day Kayaking with Island Lunch
This full-day kayaking trip takes you across the most famous islands of the Stockholm Archipelago. With a focus on scenic views, wildlife, and local food, you’ll enjoy paddling, swimming, and a hearty lunch cooked over a campfire. The tour covers several islands, increasing your chances of spotting wildlife and exploring different landscapes.
Guests love the organized transportation and the chance to visit less-visited spots. Suitable for those comfortable with longer paddling hours and interested in nature and food.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a comprehensive, active day exploring Stockholm’s famous islands.
13. PRIVATE Sunset Kayaking in Stockholm Archipelago Nature Reserve
For an intimate experience, this private sunset kayaking tour offers a 5+ hour journey into the outer archipelago at golden hour. Paddling at sunset, you’ll enjoy quiet waters, the chance to spot wildlife, and a picnic on an island or shore. The experience is personalized, with all equipment provided, including snacks and fika.
Guests describe it as gorgeous and peaceful, with guides who create a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a special, tranquil escape.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a private, scenic, and relaxing kayaking experience at sunset.
14. Sunset Kayak Tour in Central Stockholm and Swedish Fika
This evening kayak tour offers a relaxed 4-hour paddle around central Stockholm. Starting at sunset, you’ll glide past landmarks like Riddarholmen and enjoy a fika picnic with organic produce. The tour caps at 8 participants, ensuring a personal experience.
Guests mention how easy it is for first-timers to handle the kayaks, and many enjoy the combination of sightseeing, sunset views, and fika. It’s a great way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset lovers, foodies, and those seeking a peaceful, scenic evening paddle.
15. Kayak Tour in the Stockholm Archipelago with Lunch Meal
Last but not least, this half-day kayak tour offers about six hours of paddling plus a campfire lunch. Traveling with a guide, you’ll explore rugged shores and forested beaches, with plenty of opportunities to swim and relax. The route emphasizes environmental respect and local storytelling.
Guests appreciate the small group size and the packed lunch, which provides energy for the paddle. Suitable for first-time kayakers and experienced paddlers alike, it’s a well-rounded tour.
Bottom Line: A rewarding experience for those wanting to combine active paddling with a scenic, eco-friendly adventure.
How to Choose Your Perfect Stockholm Canoe & Kayak Experience
Picking the right tour depends on your schedule, budget, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a quick city perspective, the Stockholm City Kayak Tour or 2-Hour City Tour are perfect. For a full day immersed in nature, the Full-Day Archipelago Adventure or Fun-Day Island Lunch offer extensive exploration.
If you’re visiting in winter or want a more luxurious experience, the Winter Kayaking with Sauna combines outdoor effort with Swedish relaxation. For a romantic or private escape, the Private Sunset Tour provides a peaceful sunset paddling session.
Remember to consider your fitness level, interest in wildlife, and whether you prefer guided small-group outings or private tours. Booking early is wise, especially in summer when these experiences fill quickly.
