Swimming

Enjoy a (cold) dip in one of Stockholm's canals and lakes

Word to the wise: Don't expect beaches at all of these swimming spots; many of them are cliffs or bridges so exercise caution before you jump in. Stockholm is full of places to cool off if the mercury rises, but be ready for a shock – this is water that freezes in the winter and it's got some bite. The water is incredibly clean, though, so don't worry about mysterious bits in the water - if something brushes your foot, it's a fish.

Smedsuddsbadet is a popular beach where you can take a dip, play beach volleyball or just enjoy the sun.

Lilla Essingen has grassy areas and a large dock that wraps around the harbour, offering plenty of places to lay down your towel or jump in.
Fredhäll lacks a beach, so you'll have to muster up some courage and jump in off the cliffs if you want to get wet.

Långholmen has a sandy beach, plenty of cafes, and public toilets. As such, it gets quite crowded, so try to aim for off-peak times.
Tanto is the lakeside strip in Tantolunden park stretching from Hornstull to Skanstull. There's a sandy 'beach' for swimming, as well as grassy areas, a reggae cafe and quite a few jetty's to jump off.

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