Explore Vaxholm Fortress
Discover Vaxholm's Historic Fortress
Welcome to Vaxholm Fortress, a historic fortress on its own island just across the water from Vaxholm, in the heart of the Stockholm archipelago. Discover more than 500 years of history, impressive architecture and beautiful views of the sea and surrounding islands.
Vaxholm Fortress, also known as Vaxholm Castle, is a fascinating destination in its own right and well worth visiting throughout the year. Wander through the historic surroundings, explore the courtyard and enjoy the atmosphere of one of the Stockholm archipelago's most distinctive landmarks.
💡 What can you find at the fortress?
The National Property Board of Sweden owns and manages Vaxholm Fortress. Several independent businesses operate on the island: Kastellet Bed & Breakfast offers overnight accommodation with breakfast, Vaxholm Fortress Museum tells the story of the fortress, and Strömma organises conferences, group activities, dining and celebrations for pre-booked groups. Art galleries and exhibitions can also be enjoyed during the summer.
Visit Vaxholm Fortress Year-Round – Free Admission
You do not need to book an activity or purchase an admission ticket simply to visit the fortress.
The accessible outdoor areas of the fortress can be visited throughout the year. Explore the historic buildings, stroll through the courtyard, take photographs and experience the unique atmosphere at your own pace.
Admission to the accessible outdoor areas of Vaxholm Fortress is free. The boat journey to the island may involve a fare. The museum and organised activities have their own opening hours, admission fees and conditions.
The Fortress Tower – Views of the Archipelago
One of the fortress's most recognisable landmarks is its historic tower, built between 1850 and 1852.
From the upper part of the tower, reached by 130 steps, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Vaxholm, the sea and the Stockholm archipelago. The tower also has a place in Swedish film history, having appeared in Pippi Longstocking on the Seven Seas. Access to the tower may be restricted.
The History of Vaxholm Fortress
Vaxholm Fortress has a long and fascinating history as part of Stockholm's coastal defences. Fortifications were established in the Vaxholm strait during the reign of King Gustav Vasa in the 16th century to protect the approaches to the Swedish capital.
The present fortress was largely constructed between 1833 and 1863. With its massive stone walls, historic vaulted rooms and spacious courtyard, the fortress remains an impressive reminder of Sweden's military history.
Things to See and Do at Vaxholm Fortress
In addition to exploring the fortress itself, visitors will find several independent businesses and attractions on the island. Some welcome individual visitors during certain times of the year, while others organise activities and events for pre-booked groups.
Vaxholm Fortress Museum
At Vaxholm Fortress Museum, you can explore more than 500 years of Swedish defence history and discover what life at the fortress was like through the centuries.
The museum features historical objects, authentic settings and exhibitions covering coastal defence, naval mines, espionage and the people who lived and worked at the fortress.
The museum is open to individual visitors during parts of the summer season and charges a separate admission fee. Guided tours and group visits can also be arranged by advance booking at other times of the year.
Art Galleries and Exhibitions
During the summer, art galleries and temporary exhibitions bring an additional cultural dimension to Vaxholm Fortress. Discover art, crafts and creative works displayed in the historic surroundings.
The galleries help make the fortress a lively destination where history meets art and culture. Exhibitions and opening hours may vary from season to season.
Strömma – Conferences, Activities, Dining and Celebrations
Strömma organises conferences, group activities, dining experiences, weddings and celebrations in the historic setting of Vaxholm Fortress.
Activities include Fångarna på Kastellet, Lagkampen and Escape Room experiences. The venue can also host dinners, corporate events, weddings and other special occasions.
Strömma's services at the fortress are intended for pre-booked groups. Meals, activities and events must be arranged in advance and are not offered as regular walk-in services.
Stay Overnight at Vaxholm Fortress
Kastellet Bed & Breakfast
Would you like to experience the fortress after the daytime visitors have left?
At Kastellet Bed & Breakfast, you can stay overnight inside the historic fortress, surrounded by the sea and the beautiful Stockholm archipelago.
The accommodation offers 27 rooms with a total of 80 beds, ranging from double rooms to larger family rooms. Rooms overlook either the sea or the historic courtyard, and breakfast is normally included in your stay.
In the evenings and early mornings, when the island is quieter, you can enjoy the historic surroundings and the atmosphere of the archipelago at your own pace. We welcome individual travellers, families and larger groups.
Explore our accommodation and book directly »
Plan Your Visit to Vaxholm Fortress
Vaxholm Fortress is located on its own island, just a short boat ride from the town of Vaxholm. A visit to the fortress is easy to combine with exploring Vaxholm and the surrounding Stockholm archipelago.
We recommend planning your journey in advance and checking the current boat connections.