This coastal town from the 13th century has narrow streets lined with wooden houses painted in traditional Falu red. Located 70km from Stockholm, it's a calm summer destination.
In Trosa, a coastal town one hour from Stockholm, you can stroll past red and yellow wooden houses from the 1700s, watch fishing boats unload their catch at the harbor, or join a boat tour through the Baltic archipelago. The town of 12,000 residents transforms each summer when Stockholmers move to their summer houses, filling the waterfront cafes and marina with sailors and visitors.
Getting to Trosa
You can reach Trosa from Stockholm in about an hour by direct bus (Trosabussen). If traveling by train, take it to Vagnhärad station and connect with a local bus for the final 10 kilometers. Drivers can take the E4 highway and exit at Vagnhärad.
Walking Through the Old Town
Walk along Östra Långgatan to see rows of red, yellow, and white wooden houses from the 1600s and 1700s. This street leads to the town square with its distinctive red town hall. Stop by the Åbladsstugan cottage, built after 1719 - its low ceiling, small windows, and compact rooms show how local fishing families lived in the 18th century.
Summer Life at the Harbor
From June to August, you'll find the guest harbor filled with visiting boats and local life. Browse the waterfront fish smokehouse, craft shops, and ice cream stands. Watch sailing boats come and go, or sit at one of the outdoor restaurants overlooking the water.
Local Events
Three main events fill Trosa's summer calendar. Trosa Marknad brings local vendors and food stalls to the streets. Join the midsummer celebrations with traditional maypole dancing at several locations around town. The last weekend of June welcomes returning residents for the annual running event.
Nature and Outdoor Life
Walk along both sides of the Trosaån river as it flows from the town square to the harbor. You can swim at Trosa Havsbad beach on Öbolandet island or rent kayaks to explore the nearby islands. The surrounding archipelago has marked boat routes connecting multiple islands.
Historical Background
Trosa first appeared in documents from 1280 and received city privileges in 1454 as a trading post. Due to geological changes, the entire town center moved to its current location by the river estuary in the early 1600s. After Russian raids destroyed much of the town in the early 18th century, it rebuilt itself as a fishing town before becoming popular with summer visitors.
