Thinking of escaping the city buzz of Stockholm for a day? Imagine stepping into a living storybook, a place where Viking runestones line cobblestone streets and tiny, colorful wooden houses lean against each other on the shores of a vast lake. Welcome to Sigtuna, Sweden’s very first town! If you’re wondering, “Is Sigtuna worth visiting?”, the answer is a resounding YES. This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to plan the perfect day trip from Stockholm to Sigtuna in 2025, transforming your Swedish holiday into an unforgettable historical adventure.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Stockholm | ~48 km (30 miles) |
| Travel Time (One Way) | ~1 hour by public transport; 45 mins by car |
| Estimated Cost | 84 SEK (return public transport) to 550+ SEK (tour/ferry) |
| Best Time to Visit | June-August (warm weather & long days); December (magical Christmas markets) |
| Known For | Sweden’s oldest town, Viking runestones, medieval church ruins, charming wooden houses |
Why a Day Trip to Sigtuna is a Must-Do From Stockholm
Sigtuna offers a perfect, tranquil contrast to the vibrant capital. It’s more than just a pretty town; it’s a journey through a thousand years of Swedish history. Here’s why you absolutely should add it to your itinerary:
- Step Back in Time: Founded in 980 AD by a Viking king, Sigtuna was Sweden’s first capital. You can literally walk through history, from ancient runestones scattered around town to the romantic ruins of medieval churches.
- Unbeatable Charm: Picture this: wandering down Stora Gatan, Sweden’s oldest street, browsing unique artisan shops, and sipping coffee in a 300-year-old café. The town’s colorful wooden architecture is a photographer’s dream.
- Stunning Lakeside Scenery: Sigtuna’s idyllic location on the shores of Lake Mälaren provides beautiful waterfront promenades, perfect for a relaxing stroll and soaking in the serene Swedish landscape.
- Easy Accessibility: It’s incredibly simple and quick to get to from central Stockholm, making it the ideal hassle-free day trip. If you’re deciding how many days do you need in Stockholm, adding an extra day for a trip like this is highly recommended. It’s a perfect addition if you’re planning what to see in Stockholm in 3 days or more.
How to Get to Sigtuna from Stockholm
Getting to this historical gem is straightforward. Here are the best ways to travel, broken down so you can choose the one that fits your budget and style. The key phrase to remember is how to get to Sigtuna from Stockholm, and we’ve got all the answers.
By Public Transport (Train + Bus) – The Easiest & Cheapest Way
This is the most popular and efficient method for travelers. The Swedish public transport system (SL) is clean, reliable, and easy to navigate.
- Start at Stockholm Central Station (T-Centralen): Head down to the platforms for the commuter trains, known as the Pendeltåg.
- Take the Train to Märsta: Look for train line 41 or 42 heading towards Märsta. These trains run frequently, and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes.
- Transfer to the Bus at Märsta Station: As you exit the train station, the bus terminal is right in front of you. It’s a very easy transfer.
- Take Bus 570 or 575 to Sigtuna: Both buses will take you directly to the heart of the town. The ride is about 20-25 minutes. Get off at the “Sigtuna busstation” stop, which is just a short walk from the main street.
Tickets & Cost: A single journey ticket costs 42 SEK and is valid for 75 minutes, which covers the entire train and bus trip. You can buy tickets using the SL app, at a ticket machine, or by tapping your contactless card at the station barriers. A return trip will cost a total of 84 SEK.
By Car – The Flexible Option
If you have a rental car, driving offers the most flexibility, especially if you plan to visit nearby castles like Skokloster.
- Route: The main route is north on the E4 highway towards Arlanda/Uppsala. The exit for Sigtuna is clearly marked.
- Duration: The drive takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Parking: Sigtuna’s historic center is best explored on foot. You’ll find several paid parking lots (parkering) on the outskirts of the town center, which helps keep the old streets pedestrian-friendly.
By Ferry (Summer Only) – The Scenic Route
For a truly special and scenic journey, you can take a ferry across Lake Mälaren. This is less of a commute and more of an experience in itself.
- Company: The main operator is Strömma Kanalbolaget.
- Departure Point: Ferries typically depart from Klara Mälarstrand, near Stockholm City Hall.
- Duration: The trip is a leisurely 2.5 hours each way, offering stunning views of the lake and countryside.
- Season: Crucially, this service only runs during the peak summer months, usually from late June to mid-August. Always check the official schedule and book your tickets in advance as it can sell out.
| Method | Travel Time (One Way) | Cost (Round Trip) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Transport | ~1 – 1.5 hours | ~84 SEK | Affordable, frequent, eco-friendly | Requires a transfer |
| Car | ~45 – 60 mins | Varies (fuel/parking) | Flexible, good for visiting nearby sites | Can be stressful with traffic, parking costs |
| Ferry (Summer) | ~2.5 hours | ~550 SEK | Highly scenic, relaxing experience | Slow, expensive, strictly seasonal |
Top 5 Things to Do in Sigtuna
Once you arrive, this small town is incredibly walkable. Here are the must-see sights to make your day trip perfect.
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Wander Down Stora Gatan, Sweden’s Oldest Street
This is the heart and soul of Sigtuna. Stroll along the cobblestones of what is believed to be Sweden’s very first street. The route is lined with beautifully preserved wooden buildings that now house independent boutiques, artisan craft shops, and cozy cafés. It feels like you’ve walked straight onto a film set.
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Explore the Ancient Church Ruins
Scattered around the town are the magnificent stone ruins of three early medieval churches: St. Per’s, St. Olof’s, and St. Lars’. They stand as powerful monuments to Sigtuna’s past as the religious center of Sweden. St. Olof’s ruin, with its remaining archways, is particularly photogenic. Best of all, they are open-air and completely free to explore.
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Discover Viking History at the Sigtuna Museum
Located in a historic building called Drakegården, the Sigtuna Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts from the Viking and medieval periods. It houses the country’s finest collection of runestones and offers fascinating insights into the town’s founding. The entrance fee is around 80 SEK, and it’s typically open from 12:00-16:00, but always check their website for current hours.
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Admire Sigtuna’s Rådhus (The Smallest Town Hall in Sweden)
You can’t miss this tiny, charming yellow building. The Sigtuna Rådhus, built in the 18th century, is famously one of the smallest town halls in Europe. While you can’t always go inside, it’s an essential photo stop and a symbol of the town’s quaint character.
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Enjoy a Lakeside Stroll and a Classic ‘Fika’
Walk along Strandvägen, the beautiful promenade that runs along the shore of Lake Mälaren. Find a bench, watch the boats, and breathe in the fresh air. No trip to Sweden is complete without fika (a coffee and cake break), and Sigtuna is the perfect place for it. The legendary Tant Bruns Kaffestuga, one of Sweden’s oldest cafés, is an absolute must-visit for a traditional and cozy experience.
A Perfect One-Day Sigtuna Itinerary from Stockholm
Want a plan you can follow? Here’s a relaxed schedule to help you make the most of your day:
- 9:00 AM: Depart from Stockholm Central Station on the Pendeltåg towards Märsta.
- 10:15 AM: Arrive in Sigtuna. Head straight for Stora Gatan and spend time exploring the shops.
- 11:30 AM: Dive into history at the Sigtuna Museum to understand the town’s Viking roots.
- 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Kopparkitteln offers classic Swedish dishes in a historic setting.
- 2:30 PM: Wander over to the church ruins. Spend time imagining their former glory, focusing on St. Olof’s and St. Per’s.
- 4:00 PM: It’s fika time! Head to the iconic Tant Bruns Kaffestuga for a well-deserved coffee and pastry.
- 5:00 PM: Take one last relaxing stroll along the lakefront promenade.
- 5:30 PM: Walk back to the Sigtuna busstation and catch the bus to Märsta, where you’ll connect with the train back to Stockholm.
When is the Best Time to Visit Sigtuna?
Sigtuna is a year-round destination, but your experience will be very different depending on the season.
Sigtuna in Summer (June-August)
- Pros: Glorious long, sunny days with warm weather perfect for lakeside walks. All attractions, shops, and restaurants are open, and the town is buzzing with life. The scenic ferry from Stockholm is also an option.
- Cons: It can be more crowded with both local and international tourists.
Sigtuna in Winter (November-February)
- Pros: The town transforms into a magical winter wonderland, especially with a dusting of snow. The highlight is the traditional Christmas markets (Julmarknad) held on the four Sundays of Advent. This makes Sigtuna one of the absolute best day trips from Stockholm in winter. The atmosphere is cozy, romantic, and there are far fewer tourists on weekdays.
- Cons: The days are short and cold. The ferry does not operate, and some businesses may have reduced opening hours.
Where to Eat in Sigtuna: From Fika to Fine Dining
For a small town, Sigtuna has some excellent food options. Here are a few top picks:
- $$$ – Sigtuna Stadshotell: For a luxurious meal or a special occasion, the hotel’s restaurant offers gourmet dining with beautiful views.
- $$ – Båthuset Krog & Bar: Perfect for lunch or dinner right on the water. They serve delicious modern Swedish cuisine with a focus on seafood.
- $ – Tant Bruns Kaffestuga: An essential stop. This 17th-century café is famous for its historic, cozy interior and traditional Swedish cakes. Don’t miss it!
- $ – Våfflan Café: As the name suggests, this spot is all about waffles! They serve both sweet and savory versions that are perfect for a quick, delicious bite.
Estimated Budget for a Day Trip to Sigtuna
A day in Sigtuna can be very affordable. Here’s a sample budget for a budget-conscious traveler using public transport.
| Item | Estimated Cost (SEK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Return Transport | 84 SEK | Using two single SL tickets (42 SEK each way) |
| Museum Entry | 80 SEK | Sigtuna Museum adult ticket (check 2025 price) |
| Lunch | 150 – 250 SEK | A main course at a mid-range café or restaurant |
| Fika (Coffee & Cake) | 80 – 120 SEK | A non-negotiable cultural experience! |
| Total per Person | ~394 – 534 SEK | Approximately €35-€47 or $38-$52 (as of late 2024) |
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, so comfortable footwear is a must.
- Check Opening Times: Especially if visiting outside of the summer season, double-check the opening hours for museums, shops, and restaurants as they can vary.
- Bring a Camera: Sigtuna is incredibly photogenic, from the big landscapes to the small details on the historic houses.
- Tap-to-Pay: Sweden is a largely cashless society. A contactless credit/debit card or phone payment will work almost everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Sigtuna worth visiting?
Absolutely! It’s worth visiting for its unique blend of Viking and medieval history, charming small-town atmosphere, and beautiful lakeside setting, all just an hour from Stockholm. It offers a peaceful and historical escape from the city.
What is the best day trip from Stockholm?
While Stockholm has many great day trips, Sigtuna is arguably the best for history lovers seeking a quaint, walkable town. For nature, the Stockholm Archipelago is fantastic, and for a larger university city feel, Uppsala is a great choice. But Sigtuna’s “step back in time” experience is truly unique.
What is the cool town near Stockholm?
Sigtuna is definitely one of the coolest and most charming towns near Stockholm. Its history as Sweden’s first town, combined with its picturesque wooden houses and ancient runestones scattered about, makes it a truly special and memorable place.
Does Sigtuna have a train station?
No, Sigtuna does not have its own train station. The easiest and most common way to get there via public transport is by taking a commuter train to the nearby town of Märsta and then catching a short bus ride directly to Sigtuna.
Is there a ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki?
Yes, there are large, overnight cruise ferries that travel between Stockholm and Helsinki, Finland. This is a popular international trip. However, this is completely different from the small, local day trip ferry to Sigtuna, which travels on Lake Mälaren and only operates in the summer months.
TL;DR: Your Sigtuna Day Trip in a Nutshell
Too busy to read it all? Here’s the quick version: Take the commuter train (Pendeltåg) from Stockholm Central to Märsta, then hop on bus 570 or 575 to Sigtuna. The whole trip takes about an hour. Once there, walk down Stora Gatan (Sweden’s oldest street), explore the medieval church ruins, and have a fika at Tant Bruns Kaffestuga. It’s the perfect historical escape for a day!
Conclusion
A day trip to Sigtuna is more than just a sightseeing excursion; it’s a chance to walk through the pages of Swedish history. It offers the perfect, peaceful, and fascinating contrast to the bustling capital, making it an essential addition to any Stockholm itinerary. From its Viking past to its modern-day charm, Sigtuna will capture your heart and leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
Have you been to Sigtuna? Share your favorite spots or tips in the comments below!
