Lake Mälaren

Travel Guide
Kungsholmen which includes landscape views, a city and a river or creek
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

Riddarholmen featuring landscape views, a city and a bay or harbor

Central Stockholm

Stockholm City Centre, divided into Kungsholmen, Södermalm, Norrmalm, and Östermalm boroughs, offers a diverse urban experience in Sweden's capital. Explore each area for a unique vibe and attractions.

Central Stockholm
Norrmalm which includes a bridge, landscape views and a city

Norrmalm

4.5/5(758 area reviews)

Enjoy the popular shops in Norrmalm. Drottninggatan is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Hotorget T-Bana or Sergels Torg Tram Stop to see more of Stockholm.

Norrmalm
Gamla Stan featuring landscape views, a bridge and a river or creek

Gamla Stan

5/5(181 area reviews)

Medieval alleyways, cobbled streets, and North German-influenced architecture define this historic area, home to notable landmarks like Stockholm Palace and the Nobel Museum. Dine at Den gyldene freden, one of the world's oldest restaurants, and discover the tiny "Järnpojken" statue.

Gamla Stan
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Vasastan

4.5/5(40 area reviews)

Central Stockholm's Vasastan district boasts major parks like Vasaparken and Observatorielunden, and stunning architecture, from Neo-Renaissance residential buildings to Art Nouveau structures in Birkastaden. Explore the calm Atlas Area, contrasting with its bustling surroundings, and enjoy the hilly Röda bergen area.

Vasastan
Monteliusvagen showing a sunset, a city and a bay or harbor

Maria

While you're in Maria, take in top sights like Maria Square or Tantolunden Park, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Mariatorget T-Bana or Zinkensdamm T-Bana.

Maria
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Liljeholmen - Hägersten

4/5(4 area reviews)

If you're spending time in Liljeholmen - Hägersten, check out sights like Liljeholmstorget Galleria or Lake Trekanten and hop on the metro to see more the city at Örnsberg T-Bana or Telefonplan T-Bana.

Liljeholmen - Hägersten
Clarion Hotel Amaranten
Clarion Hotel Amaranten
4 out of 5
Kungsholmsgatan 31, Stockholm
The price is $89 per night from Apr 1 to Apr 2
$89
$99 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Stockholm. Enjoy free breakfast, 2 restaurants, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,447 reviews)
Excellent value for money
"This hotel offers great value for money in a central location. The staff are friendly and efficient. I highly recommend the Clarion Amaranten."

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2024

Clarion Hotel Amaranten
Aiden by Best Western Stockholm City
Aiden by Best Western Stockholm City
3.5 out of 5
Alstromergatan 39, Stockholm
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is $67 per night from Mar 31 to Apr 1
$67
$76 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 31 - Apr 1
Stay at this 3.5-star eco-certified hotel in Stockholm. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a sauna. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,379 reviews)
"Rooms are very small but a nice property."

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2024

Aiden by Best Western Stockholm City
Comfort Hotel Arlanda Airport Terminal
Comfort Hotel Arlanda Airport Terminal
3.5 out of 5
Tornvägen 19A, Arlanda, Stockholm
The price is $93 per night from Mar 30 to Mar 31
$93
$104 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 30 - Mar 31
Stay at this 3.5-star family-friendly hotel in Arlanda. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
9/10 Wonderful! (4,077 reviews)
"Nice and near airport"

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2024

Comfort Hotel Arlanda Airport Terminal
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.
Spa cabin with jacuzzi and firewood sauna
Spa cabin with jacuzzi and firewood sauna
Västmanlands län
Stay at this golf vacation home in Kvicksund. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Sandabadet and Pottskär are located nearby. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (7 reviews)
Perfect Holidays
"I can say Thank you for the nice and quit holidays, it was perfect"

Reviewed on Sep 13, 2023

Spa cabin with jacuzzi and firewood sauna
Away from it all Unique holiday accommodation on a private island Small motorboat included in the rent
Away from it all Unique holiday accommodation on a private island Small motorboat included in the rent
Västmanlands län
Enjoy a beach locale, a garden, and an in-room DVD player. Popular attractions Sundbyholms badplats and Tido Castle are located nearby. Discover genuine guest ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
Pure recreation
"If you like it simple and directly connected with nature - in a calm and relaxing atmosphere - you are right. We really had a wonderful week on this little island."

Reviewed on Jul 31, 2023

Away from it all Unique holiday accommodation on a private island Small motorboat included in the rent
Stockholm on Ekerö Cosy Cottage & Sauna.
Stockholm on Ekerö Cosy Cottage & Sauna.
Ekerö Stockholm
Stay at this cottage in Ekerö. Enjoy WiFi, onsite parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Kärsgatan and Södran are located nearby. Discover genuine guest ...
Stockholm on Ekerö Cosy Cottage & Sauna.
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.

Popular places to visit

Cities near Lake Mälaren