Things To Do
in Lidingö

Lidingö is an island municipality just northeast of Stockholm, surrounded by water and lush with forests and shoreline. The island blends quiet residential neighborhoods with scenic trails, cultural sites, and archipelago views. It is easily reachable from central Stockholm by car, bus, or the Lidingöbanan light rail.

Anchored by Millesgården, a renowned sculpture park, Lidingö offers a serene gateway to both nature and culture in the Stockholm archipelago.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploring the Archipelago
morning
:

Arrive in Lidingö and enjoy your first morning by taking a leisurely walk along the waterfront, breathing in the fresh air as you admire the stunning views of the archipelago. Visit the local café for a delightful Swedish breakfast featuring traditional pastries and fresh coffee. After breakfast, head to the Lidingö Museum to gain insight into the island's history and culture.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, rent a bike and explore the lush landscapes of the island, stopping at the scenic views and nature trails that Lidingö offers. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the picturesque parks such as Gångsätra, soaking in the natural beauty. Finish your ride with a refreshing dip at the beach or a visit to the local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at a waterfront restaurant that offers a variety of local seafood delicacies. Enjoy your meal while gazing out at the serene waters, which reflect the hues of the evening sky. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront path, allowing the calming sounds of waves to unwind your day.

day 2
Historical Gems of Lidingö
morning
:

Start your day by exploring the remarkable ruins of the Lidingö Church, a significant historical site that dates back to the 17th century. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café, relishing the taste of freshly baked Swedish cinnamon buns. Afterward, take a guided tour to learn more about the church's rich history and architectural significance.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit Willy's Park, where you can meander through beautifully manicured gardens or relax by the picturesque pond. Pack a light lunch to enjoy on the park's grounds, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Spend your time enjoying outdoor games or engaging in some quiet reading.

evening
:

For dinner, experience a traditional Swedish meal at a local restaurant known for using organic and locally sourced ingredients. After your meal, catch a show at the Lidingö Theater or a local concert, embracing the vibrant artistic culture of the island. Wind down the night at a cozy bar, sipping on a cocktail made from Swedish spirits.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🧁Groceries per week$60-90
🚆Public transit fare (daily pass)$5-8
🏨Hotel night (mid-range)$120-200
Coffee$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Stockholm with easy access to urban culture while staying connected to nature
  • High quality of life, safety, and quality of public services
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and strong opportunities for outdoor activities
  • Iconic cultural sites like Millesgården
  • Limited nightlife on the island; most options require a trip to Stockholm
  • Higher overall costs compared to some mainland areas
  • Public transport may require transfers to reach central Stockholm
  • "Hej" - Hi / Hello
  • "Tack" - Thank you
  • "Ursäkta" - Excuse me / Sorry
  • "Hur mycket kostar det?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Kan jag få en kaffe?" - Can I have a coffee?
  • "Var är närmaste toalett?" - Where is the nearest bathroom?
  • "Jag förstår inte" - I don’t understand
  • "Snälla" - Please

Places to Visit in Lidingö

Visit one of these nice places.

Millesgården Sculpture Park

Iconic sculptures set in landscaped gardens with water features and sweeping archipelago views.

Gåshaga Strand

Harbor and sea-front with boats, modern architecture, and golden-hour lighting along the water.

Lidingöbron Viewpoints

Bridge approaches and viewpoints offering panoramic perspectives of Stockholm’s skyline and water.

Bogesund Nature Reserve Overlook

Wooded trails and open heath with chances for wide, open-field landscape shots and wildlife.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lidingö

Lidingö’s cuisine reflects the Stockholm archipelago: seafood-forward dishes, seasonal produce, and classic Swedish comfort food, all enjoyed with strong fika traditions and high-quality ingredients.

Lidingö Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gravlax

Cured salmon served with dill, mustard sauce, and crisp bread or potatoes.

Must-Try!

Räksmörgås

Open-faced shrimp sandwich with dill, lemon, and crisp lettuce on rye bread.

Köttbullar

Swedish meatballs served with potatoes, cream sauce, and lingonberries; a comforting staple.

Sill

Marinated herring in a variety of flavorings, often enjoyed during celebrations and with bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lidingö Market (Seasonal)

Seasonal stalls offering fresh fish, produce, pastries, and local goods by the shore.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lidingö has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cold winters. Precipitation is well distributed throughout the year, and coastal breezes moderate temperature extremes. Daylight hours vary significantly by season, with long days in summer and short days in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality and Queuing

Be punctual for meetings and appointments; observe orderly queues and wait your turn in lines.

Fika and Quiet Etiquette

Fika is a valued social habit; take time to enjoy coffee and pastries with others. Speak in a respectful, low tone in public spaces.

Greetings and Personal Space

A simple greeting like hej (hi) is common; personal space is respected, and conversations are generally private in public areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

The area is generally very safe with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions apply: keep valuables secure, stay aware near water, and follow local guidance in outdoor areas. Emergency numbers are 112 in Sweden.

Tipping in Lidingö

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory in Sweden; service charges are often included. Round up bills or leave 5–10% for exceptional service if you wish.

Payment Methods

Card payments (chip and contactless) are widely accepted; mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common; cash use has declined in many places.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days with abundant archipelago light; ideal for boat trips, swimming, and outdoor dining. Be prepared for crowds at popular waterfront spots and keep sunscreen on hand.

Autumn

Mild days give way to colorful foliage; great for photography and peaceful walks. Layers are essential as temperatures drift cooler toward evenings.

Winter

Cold and often frosty, with a possibility of snow along the shore. Short daylight hours; indoor attractions and cafés become cozy refuges.

Spring

Blooming landscapes and migrating birds bring vibrant color and activity to trails and harbors. Pack a light jacket for variable weather.

Nightlife Guide

Lidingö at Night

Lidingö has a quiet, residential nightlife scene; most late-night options are in central Stockholm. Expect cozy cafes, wine bars, and casual venues; for clubbing or live music, many visitors head into Stockholm after sunset.

Hiking in Lidingö

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bogesund Nature Reserve

Forest, bog, and heathland trails offering serene hiking and wildlife viewing just north of the island.

Coastal Trail Loops

Casual coastal walks along the shorelines of Lidingö with sea views and photo opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Lidingö by plane.

Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)

Major international airport about 40-45 minutes from Lidingö by train or car; well-connected to central Stockholm and beyond.

Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA)

Close-in airport primarily for domestic and short-haul flights; convenient for quick trips to and from the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lidingö is highly walkable in residential and harbor areas, with well-maintained paths along the coast and through parks. Some parts of the island are hilly, but most central areas are easily navigable on foot or by bike. For longer distances or access to nature reserves, cycling or short drives are convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A large share of residents are families seeking a safe, green environment with good schools and parks.

International Residents

A mix of native Swedes and international residents, supported by a strong social infrastructure.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Sailing

Abundant water access makes sailing and other water sports popular around the archipelago.

Soccer (Football)

Local clubs and fields are common; community sports are a staple of island life.

Golf

Nearby golf courses on Lidingö and the mainland are popular among residents and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic on the bridge can be busier during peak commuting hours. Public transport is reliable, with buses and the Lidingöbanan light rail connecting to Stockholm. Parking can be limited in busy harbor areas, so plan to use transit when possible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lidingö.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer meat-free dishes; ask for veggie mains, salads, and dairy-free options; dining around the island and in Stockholm provides ample plant-based choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Sweden provides universal healthcare; visitors can access emergency services by dialing 112. EU/EEA citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). For non-emergency concerns, primary care centers and pharmacies are available in Lidingö Centrum; travel insurance is recommended.

Discover Sweden

Read more in our Sweden 2025 Travel Guide.

Sweden Travel Guide