Varmdo Municipality offers a surprisingly diverse range of tours that showcase the natural beauty and maritime charm of Stockholm’s surrounding islands. Unlike many places that rely solely on land-based excursions, Varmdo’s waters and archipelago islands provide unique opportunities to experience the area from a different perspective. We particularly like the Stockholm: RIB Speed boat tour & archipelago island visit because it combines thrilling speed, local history, and a peaceful stop at Grinda’s nature reserve. This tour is perfect if you want an active adventure with a view that’s hard to beat.
Another standout is the Stockholm Helicopter Tour with Lunch at Grinda. It offers a quick, high-flying way to see the city and archipelago from above, paired with relaxing lunch options in the peaceful surroundings of Grinda. Both tours promise a memorable experience, but they cater to different interests—action lovers versus those seeking a scenic, aerial perspective.
Below, we briefly introduce the types of tours that made our list, each with their own appeal—whether for adventure, sightseeing, or a bit of both. For those who want to explore Stockholm’s waters and skies, the options include high-speed boat rides and helicopter flights. Now, let’s dive into each one in detail.
1. Stockholm: RIB Speed boat tour & archipelago island visit
At number one, this RIB Speed boat tour offers a blend of adrenaline and scenery that’s hard to match. For around 4.5 hours, you’ll zip across the Stockholm archipelago aboard a powerful RIB (rigid inflatable boat), feeling the wind and spray while learning about the area’s sights and history. The tour begins at Rib Stockholm – Archipelago Adventures, where safety gear and expert guides ensure a thrill-filled yet secure experience.
What sets this tour apart is the 2-hour stop at Grinda, a natural island known for its lush landscapes and classic archipelago restaurant. Here, you can stretch your legs, explore the nature reserve, or enjoy a seafood lunch overlooking the water. The itinerary includes passing Vaxholm, a charming spot full of colorful houses, and then heading back to Stockholm with plenty of stories to tell.
Rated 5/5 by reviewers, this tour is perfect for those craving excitement with a side of nature. Travelers love the mix of high-speed action and peaceful island stops. The tour’s value lies in its combination of adventure, sightseeing, and a taste of local life on Grinda.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a high-energy experience and don’t mind getting a bit wet. It’s especially suitable for active travelers who enjoy speed and stunning scenery.
2. Stockholm Helicopter Tour with Lunch at Grinda
Number two on our list is the Stockholm Helicopter Tour with Lunch at Grinda, which offers a different kind of thrill—flying high above the city and archipelago. This 2-hour private helicopter flight begins at Swedavia Bromma Airport, where a brief safety briefing prepares you for the adventure.
The helicopter provides spectacular views of Stockholm’s historic center, Gamla Stan, and the sprawling islands of the inner archipelago. During the flight, your pilot shares commentary on key landmarks, making it a personalized sightseeing experience from the air. After the flight, you’ll visit Grinda, where you can enjoy a leisurely 1.5-hour lunch in a scenic setting, soaking in the peaceful island atmosphere.
This tour is especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing with a quick, comprehensive flight and a relaxed meal. It’s rated 5/5 by the single review, highlighting its exclusivity and exceptional views. Because it operates as a private flight for up to five passengers, it’s perfect for intimate groups, families, or couples.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for those who want a luxurious, bird’s-eye view of Stockholm and the archipelago combined with a relaxing island lunch. It’s an excellent choice if you want to see a lot in a short time from a unique perspective.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two memorable tours, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re after an active adventure and don’t mind getting a little wet, the speedboat tour (see details here) offers an adrenaline rush and a peaceful island stop. It’s great for families or groups looking for a lively experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed, scenic experience with stunning aerial views and a private setting, then the helicopter tour (find out more here) is ideal. It’s perfect for special occasions or those seeking a luxurious touch to their Stockholm visit.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and whether you’re more interested in speed and movement or aerial vistas and tranquility. Both tours are best booked in advance, especially during peak summer months.
Final thoughts
Varmdo Municipality offers two excellent ways to enjoy Stockholm’s archipelago—whether you’re craving the adrenaline of a speedboat ride or the breathtaking views from a helicopter. The speedboat tour provides a dynamic, energetic experience with a peaceful island stop, perfect for adventure lovers. Meanwhile, the helicopter tour lets you soar above the city and islands for a quick, high-end sightseeing trip with a delicious lunch in Grinda.
For travelers with limited time or those celebrating something special, these options are worth booking early. No matter which you choose, you’ll come away with a fresh appreciation for Stockholm’s maritime beauty—an experience that might just turn into the highlight of your trip.
