Stockholm: Winter Kayaking Tour through the City Centre

Imagine gliding silently through Stockholm’s waterway corridors as snow dusts the skyline and bridges frame your view of colorful buildings and historic districts. That’s exactly what this winter kayaking experience offers—an opportunity to see the city from a fresh, watery perspective during the colder months. While it might sound chilly, with the right gear, this tour can be surprisingly warm and cozy, making it a unique way to explore Stockholm’s winter beauty.

What stood out in this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides like Bobby and Emil, who share fascinating insights into Stockholm’s history and culture. Second, the spectacular scenery—paddle past iconic neighborhoods like Gamla Stan and Kungsholmen, with the city’s architecture and bridges providing a stunning backdrop. Third, the top-tier safety gear—including dry suits and waterproof gloves—that keeps you comfortable despite the winter chill.

A potential consideration? The activity is weather dependent, meaning if the lakes freeze over or conditions become too harsh, the tour might be canceled or postponed. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, are comfortable on water, and are prepared for cold weather. This tour appeals most to travelers seeking something active, scenic, and authentically Stockholm.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable leaders enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• Winter-Ready Gear: Top-quality dry suits and gloves keep participants warm and dry.
• Scenic Views: Paddling through Stockholm’s districts offers a unique perspective.
• Safety & Comfort: Small groups and safety equipment ensure confidence and security.
• Flexible Experience: Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
• Weather Dependent: The experience hinges on weather conditions and ice-free waters.

Stockholm’s waterways stay accessible even in winter, provided Lake Mälaren isn’t frozen, offering a rare chance to explore the city from the water during the coldest months. We loved the dynamic mix of adventure and sightseeing, where every paddle stroke revealed a new postcard-worthy view.

This tour is especially valuable for those who want a different kind of winter outing. It’s not just sightseeing from a bus or walking along the streets; it’s about actively engaging with the city’s landscape. With the added comfort of dry suits, you won’t have to worry about the cold, enabling full focus on the scenery and your guide’s stories.

The tour’s duration is about three hours, which balances a manageable time commitment with enough time to explore multiple districts. The small group size—limited to ten participants—means you get personalized attention and plenty of opportunity for questions or photo ops. Plus, the inclusion of all gear—double or single kayaks, waterproof bags, gloves, and dry suits—adds to the overall value, removing the hassle of sourcing equipment yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary – A Closer Look

The tour begins at Rålis Kayak, a conveniently located spot on the island of Kungsholmen. Your adventure kicks off with a 30-minute safety briefing—a critical step that ensures everyone knows how to handle their kayak and stays safe on the water.

Once suited up in dry suits, the real fun begins. The route takes you along the city’s shoreline, offering views of Kungsholmen, Langholmen, Södermalm, and Gamla Stan. Paddling beneath bridges and past vibrant buildings, you get a perspective of Stockholm that’s hard to match from land.

Travelers have shared that guides like Bobby and Emil make the journey especially memorable. Bobby, in particular, gets high praise for his upbeat attitude and extensive knowledge about Stockholm. One reviewer mentioned, “Bobby was a great tour guide that made the activity very fun with his upbeat spirit,” emphasizing how guides can elevate the experience.

The Experience of Kayaking in Winter

The actual kayaking duration is about 2.5 hours, with plenty of time to soak in views and take photos. The activity is primarily about paddling, but guides often share interesting facts along the way—weather permitting. From one review: “Guide Bobby told us interesting facts about Stockholm, and equipment and education was top tier.”

Participants highlight the importance of dressing appropriately beneath the dry suit—thermal underwear, fleece layers, wool socks, and a warm hat. The dry suits, available in sizes XS to XL, are designed for winter comfort, and waterproof gloves keep your hands warm even in brisk winds. One reviewer noted, “As long as you are prepared for the cold, you will have a great time,” stressing the value of proper layering.

The Group and Safety

With a maximum of ten participants, the tour feels intimate and well-supervised. The safety gear, including life vests and spray skirts, provides peace of mind, and the waterproof bags help keep your belongings dry. Guides like Emil and Bobby are praised for their kindness, helpfulness, and ability to keep everyone comfortable, regardless of skill level.

The activity is suitable for first-time kayakers, thanks to tandem kayaks and clear instructions. Experienced paddlers will appreciate the opportunity to paddle through quieter waters or request single kayaks for more challenge. Importantly, you need to be able to swim at least 200 meters, but previous kayaking experience isn’t required.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusion of all gear, professional guides, and the small-group setting, this tour offers excellent value. Compared to traditional sightseeing, paddling through Stockholm’s winter landscape adds a memorable, active dimension that many travelers find rewarding. Plus, the option to book now and pay later offers flexibility for those planning ahead.

Many reviews mention the possibility of extending the adventure with optional add-ons, such as a sauna or a quick lake plunge afterward. The latter might seem daunting, but reviewers say it’s well worth the experience—especially for those who enjoy a splash of adrenaline. Just remember to bring swimwear and a towel, as shower facilities aren’t available at the start point.

• Dress in thermal underwear, fleece, synthetic trousers, wool socks, and a warm winter hat beneath your dry suit.
• Bring a change of clothes, gloves, and a hat in case of getting wet or cold.
• Arrive early at Smedsuddsvägen 23 on Kungsholmen for check-in and gear fitting.
• No jewelry, alcohol, or drugs are allowed, and you must be comfortable swimming at least 200 meters.
• Be mindful that the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or non-swimmers.

This winter kayaking tour in Stockholm offers a rare chance to view the city from a unique angle—water. With seasoned guides, high-quality gear, and breathtaking scenery, it’s ideal for active travelers eager to combine adventure with sightseeing. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences, small groups, and a touch of adrenaline during winter.

If you’re looking to add a memorable, off-the-beaten-path activity to your Stockholm trip, this tour delivers more than just a paddle—it’s about making winter unforgettable. The combination of expert guidance, scenic views, and the thrill of kayaking in cooler weather makes it a standout experience.

Whether you’re a first-time kayaker or an experienced paddler craving something different, this tour adapts to your skill level while providing a safe, fun environment. The winter backdrop adds a magic touch, transforming Stockholm into a quiet, snow-dusted metropolis seen from a new perspective.

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, beginners are welcome. Tandem kayaks and clear instructions from guides make it accessible even for first-timers.

What should I wear? Wear thermal underwear, fleece, synthetic trousers, wool socks, gloves, and a warm hat beneath your dry suit for comfort and warmth.

Do I need previous kayaking experience? No prior experience is required. The activity is designed to be accessible, and you should be comfortable swimming at least 200 meters.

What gear is included? All necessary equipment—dry suits, life vests, spray skirts, waterproof bags, gloves, and water shoes—is provided for your safety and comfort.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including safety briefing and paddling time.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are too harsh or lakes freeze, the activity might be canceled or rescheduled.

Can I request a single kayak? Yes, single kayaks are available upon prior request, but tandem kayaks are standard for better stability.

Is there an age limit? The tour is suitable for adults who can swim 200 meters. Pregnant women and non-swimmers are advised not to participate.

Where do I meet? At Smedsuddsvägen 23 on Kungsholmen in Stockholm. The meeting point is a large shipping container next to the water.

Can I book with flexible payment options? Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering added flexibility for your travel plans.