Stockholm by Water: The Charm of Water Taxis

 

Stockholm, often referred to as the “Venice of the North,” is a city of islands, bridges, and waterways. With 14 islands and over 50 bridges, the Swedish capital is uniquely positioned where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. While many choose to explore the city by foot, bike, or tram, one of the most charming and scenic ways to travel is by water taxi.

What is a Water Taxi?

A water taxi is exactly what it sounds like—a small boat service designed to transport passengers between various points along Stockholm’s waterways. They offer a convenient, scenic, and often faster way to get from one island or neighborhood to another while avoiding the city’s sometimes busy streets. They’re also an ideal way to see Stockholm from a completely different perspective, offering stunning views of the city's iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, City Hall, and the island of Djurgården.

Why Take a Water Taxi in Stockholm?

1. Scenic Views: There’s no better way to enjoy Stockholm’s beauty than from the water. From your seat in the water taxi, you’ll get a panoramic view of the city’s skyline, its pastel-colored buildings, green spaces, and historic landmarks.

2. Efficient Travel: With many of Stockholm’s attractions spread across different islands, taking a water taxi is often a quicker way to get around than driving or using public transportation. You can hop on a taxi from places like Gamla Stan, Djurgården, and Södermalm, and get dropped off close to your next destination.

3. Avoid Traffic: Stockholm can get busy, especially in the summer or during major events. Water taxis help you avoid the traffic on land, providing a smooth ride through Stockholm’s serene waters.

4. A Unique Experience: There’s something special about gliding across the water as you travel from one part of the city to another. Water taxis offer a sense of adventure and exploration that typical public transport doesn’t. Plus, it's a quieter, more relaxing journey compared to the hustle of buses or trains.

Key Routes and Popular Stops

Stockholm’s water taxis operate on various routes, and you’ll find them stopping at key points around the city:

• Djurgården: One of Stockholm’s most popular islands, Djurgården is home to famous attractions like the Vasa Museum, Gröna Lund amusement park, and the ABBA Museum. Water taxis from Gamla Stan and Slussen frequently stop here.

• Gamla Stan: The city's historic old town, with its cobbled streets, royal palace, and vibrant squares. Water taxis often stop here, offering a quick way to explore Stockholm’s heritage.

• Skeppsholmen and Kastellholmen: These small islands are home to museums like Moderna Museet and offer stunning views of the city. They’re also a tranquil escape from the more crowded parts of the city.

• Nacka Strand: A beautiful waterfront area with trendy restaurants, perfect for a leisurely lunch or evening drink after your water taxi ride.

• Fjäderholmarna: A small island in the Stockholm archipelago, easily accessible by water taxi, it’s a perfect getaway for a day trip with cozy restaurants, cafes, and local artisans selling their crafts.

Tips for Riding Water Taxis in Stockholm

• Check the Schedule: Water taxis don’t run 24/7, so make sure to check the schedules in advance. Service may be more frequent during the summer and around popular tourist destinations.

• Book in Advance: If you're planning to take a private water taxi, it’s a good idea to book ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Combine with Other Transport: Water taxis are a great complement to Stockholm’s excellent public transport system. You can easily combine your water taxi ride with buses, trams, and the metro to get the most out of your visit.

• Enjoy the Journey: Remember, water taxis aren’t just a way to get from point A to point B—they’re a chance to experience Stockholm in a way few tourists do. Take your time, snap some photos, and savor the experience.

In Stockholm, booking a water taxi is relatively easy, and there are several options depending on whether you want a private service or prefer public water transportation. Here’s a guide on where and how you can book or get a water taxi:

1. Private Water Taxi Services

For a more personalized experience, you can book a private water taxi. These taxis can take you anywhere along the city's waterways or even into the nearby archipelago. Here are some ways to book:

• Online Booking Platforms: Several companies operate water taxis in Stockholm. You can book through their websites, where they often allow you to choose routes, destinations, and even boat types (from standard to luxury options). Some well-known water taxi services include:

  • Stockholm Water Taxi (stockholmwatertaxi.se): Offers customized routes within Stockholm and trips to the archipelago.
  • Taxi Boat Stockholm (taxiboatstockholm.se): Provides services around the inner city and nearby islands.

• Phone or Email: You can also book many water taxis over the phone or via email. This option is especially useful for arranging private trips or if you have specific requests like group bookings or specific pick-up locations.

• Pick-Up Points: Many private water taxis pick up passengers from common docks in central Stockholm, like:

• Nybroviken: Close to downtown and a common departure point for many boats.
• Strandvägen: A popular quay for both public and private boat tours.
• Skeppsholmen: Another spot for catching water taxis, especially if you’re visiting the museums on the island.

2. Public Water Transportation (Ferries & Water Buses)

Stockholm’s public transport network also includes SL ferries and water buses, which function similarly to water taxis but are more affordable and run on fixed schedules. These services are perfect if you're looking to hop between key islands like Djurgården, Skeppsholmen, and Gamla Stan.

• SL Public Transport Ferries: Operated by the same system that runs Stockholm’s buses and metro. You can use your SL travel card or buy single tickets at SL kiosks or through the SL app. Some popular routes include:

  • Djurgården Ferry: A quick route between Slussen, Gamla Stan, and Djurgården.
  • Sjövägen: A route that connects Nybroviken with Nacka and Lidingö, passing several scenic stops.

• Tickets: You can buy tickets:

• Through the SL App: Easy and convenient, the SL app lets you purchase tickets, check schedules, and get real-time updates.
• At Ticket Machines or Kiosks: These are available at major stops like Slussen or Nybroviken.
• Onboard: In some cases, you can buy a ticket directly on the ferry or water bus, but it’s better to check ahead since this may not be available on all routes.

3. Popular Water Taxi Companies and Apps

Here’s a quick list of companies and apps for water taxis in Stockholm:

• Båttaxi Stockholm: Offers water taxi services to central Stockholm locations and trips out to the archipelago. Ideal for smaller groups or special occasions. They have an online booking system or you can call them directly.

• Uber Boat (Occasionally Available): Sometimes, Uber operates boat services in Stockholm during peak seasons or special events. Check the Uber app to see if this service is available during your visit.

• Taxibåt Stockholm: Provides flexible and personalized services to and from the inner city and surrounding islands. Book via their website or call for direct service.

4. At Major Tourist Spots

If you're at a major tourist spot like Djurgården, Gamla Stan, or Nybroviken, you can often find water taxis docked and ready for passengers. You can simply walk up to the boat and book a ride on the spot (depending on availability).

5. Archipelago Water Taxi Services

If you're heading out to the Stockholm Archipelago, several dedicated water taxi companies operate trips to islands further away from the city center. These can be booked through companies like Waxholmsbolaget (which offers ferry services to the archipelago), or you can arrange private transport via water taxi companies.