Lake Mälaren

Travel Guide

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Lake Mälaren
Lake Mälaren
Lake Mälaren
Lake Mälaren

Sandy beaches, cities and castles lie on the edge of this scenic, freshwater lake, a popular daytrip destination from Stockholm.

West of Stockholm is Lake Malaren, a beautiful freshwater lake with its own islands and cultural attractions on the shores. Visit one of Sweden’s oldest settlements, take part in a variety of watersports or simply sit on a bench on the rugged coastline to watch the world go by.

Lake Malaren is Sweden’s third-largest lake and connects Stockholm with Salt Bay in the Baltic Sea. In ancient times, Lake Malaren was a bay and boats were able to use it to travel deep into Sweden’s interior. However, the bay turned into a lake in about A.D. 1200 when a rock barrier became far too shallow for ships to safely sail through.

The most notable city near Lake Malaren is Vasteras. Take a stroll along the river, see the treasure troves of art at the Vasteras Cathedral or take the whole family to Kokpunkten, a thrilling waterpark. Learn about ironworking at the UNESCO-listed Engelsberg Ironworks, which offers regular educational tours. Cyclists will find plenty of trails along the Stromsholm Canal that takes you through a historic industrial center.

Many visitors are drawn to Mariefred, a small city known for housing Gripsholm Castle, which features a fascinating portrait collection. Take a boat to the island of Drottningholm to visit the royal family’s summer residence with its perfectly manicured gardens. Another prominent island on the lake is Birka. It’s one of Sweden’s oldest settlements artifacts found here include relics from the Viking era.

Lake Malaren is an easy daytrip from Stockholm. To get to Mariefred, take a train from Stockholm’s central station to Laggesta and then finish the journey on a short bus ride. For those exploring the royal family’s residences, a boat goes direct from Stockholm to Drottningholm Palace. There are also companies who offer guided sightseeing tours around Lake Malaren’s islands.

From the Viking era to Sweden’s industrial age to the country’s royal history, Lake Malaren offers the chance to explore many chapters of Swedish history.

Where to stay in Lake Mälaren

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Stadshagen

Shopping and restaurants are just a few things travellers enjoy in Stadshagen, and you can get around the area by hopping on the metro at Stadshagen T-Bana.

Stadshagen
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Fredhäll

Travellers enjoy Fredhäll for its restaurants and shopping. Consider checking out Stockholm Outback while you're in the area.

Fredhäll
Clarion Hotel Amaranten

Clarion Hotel Amaranten

4 out of 5
Kungsholmsgatan 31, Stockholm
The price is €129 per night from 28 Sept to 29 Sept
€129
28 Sept - 29 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Stockholm. Enjoy free breakfast, 2 restaurants, and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
Clarion Hotel Amaranten
Scandic GO, Sankt Eriksgatan 20

Scandic GO, Sankt Eriksgatan 20

3 out of 5
St Eriksgatan 20, Stockholm, Stockholm
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €71 per night from 14 Sept to 15 Sept
€71
14 Sept - 15 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Stockholm. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
Scandic GO, Sankt Eriksgatan 20
Aiden by Best Western Stockholm City

Aiden by Best Western Stockholm City

3.5 out of 5
Alstromergatan 39, Stockholm
The price is €83 per night from 28 Sept to 29 Sept
€83
28 Sept - 29 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Stockholm. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a sauna. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
Aiden by Best Western Stockholm City
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Unity Hammarby Sjöstad - A Studio Hotel

Unity Hammarby Sjöstad - A Studio Hotel

3.5 out of 5
13 Heliosgatan, Stockholm, Stockholms län
Stay at this 3.5-star aparthotel in Stockholm. Enjoy a rooftop terrace, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in ...
Unity Hammarby Sjöstad - A Studio Hotel
ApartDirect Hammarby Sjöstad

ApartDirect Hammarby Sjöstad

3 out of 5
Hammarby Fabriksväg 93, Stockholm
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Stockholm. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
ApartDirect Hammarby Sjöstad
Biz Apartment Gärdet

Biz Apartment Gärdet

4 out of 5
Sandhamnsgatan 67, Stockholm
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Stockholm. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
Biz Apartment Gärdet
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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