Strömma

Strömma is one of the main sightseeing companies in Stockholm, and for many visitors one of its boats gives the first view of the city from the water. The company, whose full name is Strömma Turism & Sjöfart AB and which is part of the Stromma Group, has its address on Svensksundsvägen on Skeppsholmen and runs both boat and bus sightseeing. Because Stockholm is built on islands, seeing it from the water explains its geography better than almost anything else, and Strömma's tours cover the city centre, the royal parkland of Djurgården and the archipelago.

The Stockholm City Highlights boat tour, the route long known as Under the Bridges, is the most popular choice for a first visit. It lasts about two hours and a quarter and passes under 12 bridges, through one lock and along narrow canals, giving a full circuit of the central islands between Lake Mälaren and the Baltic. The shorter Royal Djurgården boat tour takes about an hour and follows the shores of Djurgården, with views of the island's museums and parkland. For a taste of the islands beyond the city, the guided archipelago boat tour runs for between one and a half and three hours.

On land, Strömma runs sightseeing by bus, and a multi-destination ticket combines bus and boat travel, which is useful if you want to hop between the main sights over a day or two. In summer, Strömma also operates the boats to Drottningholm Palace from Stadshuskajen beside the City Hall, a relaxing way to reach the royal estate on Lake Mälaren. Dinner and brunch cruises are offered too, and these make a good choice for a special evening on the water.

Strömma's tours suit first-time visitors, families, older travellers and anyone who prefers to sightsee sitting down. Many tours include commentary, and the short tours are an easy way to get your bearings at the start of a trip. Prices vary by tour and season, and online tickets are often discounted. Boats run more frequently in summer, and some routes operate only in the warmer months, so check the timetable before you plan around a particular tour.

Departure points vary by tour and are listed on the company's website; check the exact quay on your ticket. Allow time to find the right quay, and arrive a little before departure to choose a good seat on deck in fine weather.