Stockholm City: Visit Icebar and Vasamuseum

This tour offers a taste of Stockholm’s top attractions, combining a visit to the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship, the Vasa, with a quirky experience at the Icebar, crafted entirely out of ice. While it’s a popular option for visitors keen on blending history with something a bit more fun, it’s also important to weigh the experience’s value against its cost and the logistical details.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to see the Vasa Museum, home to an incredibly well-preserved warship that sank just a mile into its maiden voyage. Then, the adventure continues with a visit to the Icebar, where everything from the glasses to the decor is made from ice, making for a memorable, chilly snapshot of Stockholm’s cool culture. Plus, your guide will walk you through the historic Old Town, adding context and local flavor.

That said, a potential snag is that the Icebar can be overcrowded and booking ahead seems essential to guarantee entry. Some reviewers have expressed frustration with limited time at the museum and the expense involved, so careful planning and realistic expectations are advised.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy a rich mix of history, quirky modern attractions, and a taste of Stockholm’s holiday spirit—whether you’re a history buff, a curious tourist, or someone looking for a fun photo opportunity.

Key Points

• Historical Highlight: The Vasa ship is the only well-preserved 17th-century warship, offering a fascinating glimpse into early Swedish naval history.
• Unique Experience: The Icebar is a one-of-a-kind venue, crafted entirely of ice, perfect for memorable photos and a cool drink.
• Guided Insight: The tour includes a live guide who shares local stories, especially during the Old Town walk.
• Short & Sweet: The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, making it ideal for a quick but memorable glimpse of Stockholm.
• Cost Consideration: Entrance fees are separate from the tour price, and booking in advance for the Icebar is highly recommended due to the risk of overcrowding.
• Weather & Comfort: The Icebar’s temperature hovers around -7°C, so warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes are a must.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What You Can Expect

Starting at the Vasa Museum: A Window into 17th Century Sweden

Your tour kicks off outside the Vasa Museum, situated on the historic Djurgården island, a royal park once reserved for hunting and royalty. This location is interesting not only for its history but also because it’s surrounded by over 2000 oak trees, including the famous Prins Eugenes Ek with a 9.2-meter circumference.

The Vasa warship, built over 2.5 years, sank in Stockholm harbor on its maiden voyage in 1628 after just a mile. The ship was salvaged in the 20th century and now stands as a remarkably intact vessel, giving visitors a vivid look into 17th-century shipbuilding and naval warfare.

We loved how the museum’s layout and exhibits let us imagine life aboard this ship—every detail, from the ornate carvings to the weaponry, tells a story. One reviewer, Pam, highlights that she found the museum “very interesting,” but also notes the limited time (about 45 minutes) doesn’t do justice to the vessel’s full story. You might want to plan a longer visit if you’re a maritime buff or simply love history.

The Journey to the Icebar: A Short, Scenic Walk and Ferry Ride

From the museum, the tour guides lead you on a brief 5-minute walk to a nearby ferry, which then takes around ten minutes across the water to Old Town (Gamla Stan). This part of the tour offers a chance to enjoy Stockholm’s scenic waterways and get a feel for the city’s vibes.

The walk through Old Town is lively and steeped in history. Your guide will point out architectural gems, cobblestone streets, and tell colorful stories about the area’s past. The passing through Gamla Stan adds an extra dimension, giving you a quick taste of Stockholm’s medieval heart.

The Icebar Experience: A Chilly yet Charming Stop

The highlight for many is, of course, the Icebar Stockholm by ICEHOTEL. Everything here—from the walls and sculptures to the glasses—made entirely out of ice, which is reset and recreated annually. The interior design varies each year, adding a fresh, artistic touch to each visit.

Once inside, you’ll be provided with a warm coat and gloves—necessary to withstand the -7°C temperature. A typical visit lasts about 30-45 minutes, ample time for a cocktail in a glass carved from ice and snapping some memorable photos.

It’s worth noting that reservations are strongly recommended. An earlier reviewer, Pam, recounts how her group was denied entry because of overcrowding, which was disappointing. The tour provider suggests paying in advance for the Icebar entrance, with options to pay in euros, dollars, or SEK. If you don’t secure a reservation beforehand, you risk missing out, especially during peak seasons.

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Practical Tips for the Tour

• Timing: Starting times vary, and as of October 2024, the Icebar opens at 3 PM, shifting from its previous 11 AM schedule. Be sure to confirm your specific start time.
• Cost Breakdown: Entrance to the Vasa Museum ranges from 190 SEK to 240 SEK, while a ticket to the Icebar costs around SEK 265 and includes a drink.
• Payment: Entrance fees are paid separately; you’ll need cash or card at each point.
• Comfort: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking and standing in cold environments.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but some parts, like cobblestone streets, may require extra caution.

The Value of This Tour

While the tour isn’t the cheapest, it offers a compact experience that hits two major attractions with a knowledgeable guide. The combination of history and modern Swedish culture—especially the quirky Icebar—is a fun way to see Stockholm without spending an entire day.

However, some reviews point out that the short time at the Vasa Museum can feel rushed, and the extra costs for entrance fees might surprise budget travelers. If you’re a history enthusiast, it’s worth considering whether you’d prefer to visit the Vasa Museum independently, then come back to the Icebar on your own, booking ahead to avoid disappointment.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Beyond the main stops, this tour offers glimpses into Stockholm’s past and present. For instance, the Djurgården park setting is a peaceful contrast to the busy city, and the Old Town walk provides stories that only local guides can tell about the city’s medieval roots.

The Icebar, with its rotating ice sculptures and playful atmosphere, gives a fun, modern Swedish twist. The fact that everything is reimagined annually means each visit can offer something new and visually stunning, especially if you’re into art or design.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a quick, engaging introduction to Stockholm’s top sights. It’s perfect if you prefer structured guided visits and want to combine history with some playful, Instagram-worthy moments. Families with older children might enjoy the Icebar’s novelty, but note that children under 18 are not allowed inside.

History lovers will appreciate the craftsmanship and stories behind the Vasa, while those curious about Swedish culture will find the Icebar fascinating and uniquely local. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more time at each site, this tour might feel a bit rushed or expensive.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Stockholm, blending a remarkable shipwreck with a fun, frosty bar experience. The Vasa Museum allows you to step back in time and understand 17th-century naval ambitions, while the Icebar provides a playful, sensory experience of modern Swedish creativity.

The guided element ensures you get context and stories, making it more enriching than wandering alone. That said, booking ahead for the Icebar is crucial—overcrowding can spoil the fun if you’re unprepared.

For those who enjoy a mix of history and quirky attractions, this tour provides good value, especially if you’re okay with the costs of entry fees and the brief time at each site. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a snapshot of Stockholm’s culture, history, and fun.

FAQ

Do I need to book the Icebar in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is highly recommended because the Icebar can be overcrowded, and walk-ins might be turned away. It’s best to reserve your time slot to ensure entry.

Are the entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the tour price covers the guide and the guided tour of the Vasa Museum. Entrance fees for the museum and Icebar are paid separately—approximately 190–240 SEK for the museum and 265 SEK for the Icebar.

How long do I spend at each attraction?
You’ll have about 45 minutes at the Vasa Museum and roughly 30-45 minutes at the Icebar. The entire tour lasts approximately two hours, including transportation and walk-throughs.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 are not permitted inside the Icebar, so this tour isn’t ideal for families with young kids. The Vasa Museum, however, can be enjoyed by all ages.

What should I wear for the Icebar?
Dress warmly and comfortably, as the Icebar’s temperature is around -7°C. The venue provides coats and gloves, but good walking shoes are a must.

Can I skip parts of the tour?
Since this is a guided experience, modifications are limited. If you want more time at the Vasa Museum, consider visiting independently afterward.

Final Words

This tour packs a lot into a short window, making it a great option for those wanting to catch Stockholm’s highlights without a full-day commitment. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, scenic parts of the city, and unconventional attractions. Just remember to book your Icebar reservation early and come prepared for the cold.

Overall, it’s a fun, informative experience that offers authentic touches of Stockholm – combining the past and present in the most memorable ways. Whether you’re snapping photos in the Icebar or marveling at the Vasa’s craftsmanship, this guided tour promises a compact, enjoyable look at Stockholm’s unique charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: