Stockholm: Land and Water Tour by Amphibious Bus

If you’re visiting Stockholm and looking for a fun, engaging way to see the city’s highlights, this amphibious bus tour promises a memorable experience. Combining land-based sightseeing with an exciting splash into the water, it offers a playful perspective of Stockholm’s scenic beauty and rich history.

What makes this tour truly appealing? First, it’s a chance to see notable landmarks like the Royal Palace and Djurgården from both land and water, giving a well-rounded view. Second, the live guides are praised for their humor, knowledge, and charismatic personalities—meaning you’ll learn without feeling like you’re in a classroom. Third, the water splash delivers an adrenaline rush and makes the whole experience more dynamic.

However, a consideration for travelers is that the duration is just about an hour, which might not be enough if you’re eager for a more in-depth exploration. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 3 years or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if you’re traveling with little ones or accessibility needs.

This tour is perfect for those who want a lively, lighthearted introduction to Stockholm—ideal for first-timers, families (with older kids), or anyone craving a mix of sightseeing and fun.

This experience made our article of 14 Top-Rated Stockholm Tours & Experiences.

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Key Points

Unique amphibious experience: Combines land and water touring for a well-rounded perspective.
Engaging guides: Very highly rated for their humor, knowledge, and personality.
Iconic landmarks: Passes the Royal Palace, Gröna Lund, Djurgården, and more.
Short but sweet: About 1 hour, making it an easy addition to a busy sightseeing schedule.
Inclusive ticket and tour: Includes a live guide and the amphibious bus ride.
Good value: Especially when considering the entertainment, sightseeing, and novelty factor.

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An In-Depth Look at the Stockholm Amphibious Bus Tour

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How the Tour Is Structured

The adventure begins at a convenient meeting point nestled between the Royal Opera and the Grand Hotel, two of Stockholm’s most iconic landmarks. After boarding the amphibious bus, your guide kicks things off with a friendly introduction, setting the tone for a fun-filled hour. The bus then winds through the city’s historic streets, giving you a chance to see landmarks like Stureplan, the Royal Theatre, and the Royal Island of Djurgården from the comfort of your seat.

The first half of the tour takes you along land routes that showcase Stockholm’s fashionable streets, cultural sites, and notable architecture. Your guide, often praised for their humor and storytelling, offers engaging commentary, making the city’s history and sights come alive. For example, you’ll hear about the Royal Palace and the significance of the Stockholm City Hall with its golden crowns. Based on reviews, guides like Sylvia and Mimi are particularly loved for their bubbly personalities and ability to make even the most familiar sights interesting.

The Water Splash: The Highlight

The real thrill comes when your bus, which weighs ten tons, suddenly turns into a boat and splashes into the water. Expect a loud splash, a rush of wind, and a few butterflies in your stomach—an experience that most passengers find exhilarating. As the bus floats, you’ll cruise past Skeppsholmen, with views of the 19th-century ship Af Chapman docked there, and see the Vasa Museum from a new angle.

One reviewer, Dmitri, shared that “the bus splashes into the water and continues the tour like a boat,” calling it a highlight of the day. The water segment offers fresh angles on Stockholm’s stunning archipelago views, especially the Old Town’s facades dating back to the 16th century. Prepare your camera for postcard-worthy shots of the Swedish Parliament, the German Church, and the Royal Palace.

Landmarks and Sights on the Route

The tour’s land portion includes stops at Östermalm, known for its elegant architecture and famous food market, and Strandvägen, considered perhaps Scandinavia’s most prestigious address. As you cruise past Södermalm, you get a different vibe—hip, artsy, and full of hidden gems.

A key feature is the pass-by of the Royal Island of Djurgården, home to Gröna Lund amusement park and the Vasa Museum, both of which are considered must-sees for visitors. Passengers often comment that they appreciated the informative narration about the island’s history and its role in Stockholm’s development.

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Guides and Entertainment

Reviewers frequently mention the guides’ lively personalities. Sylvia, described as “the highlight of the tour,” and Mimi, praised for her enthusiasm, make the ride entertaining and informative. They don’t just recite facts—expect jokes, anecdotes, and a genuine passion for Stockholm.

One reviewer, Dmitri, mentioned how “her sense of humor, warmth, and flawless English” brought the city to life. Passengers also enjoyed the music playlist that accompanies the boat segment, adding to the festive, carefree atmosphere.

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Practical Aspects: Price, Duration, and Accessibility

At just around one hour, this tour fits well into a busy sightseeing day, providing a quick but rundown of Stockholm’s highlights. The ticket price covers both the land and water portions, guided commentary, and the thrill of the splash—offering good value, especially considering the entertainment factor.

It’s worthwhile to note that the tour starts and ends at the same spot, making planning for other activities straightforward. The tour is conducted in English, and children over 3 years can enjoy it, though it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or guests with oversize luggage.

Overall Experience and Authenticity

What sets this tour apart is the combination of scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and the fun splash into the water. Reviewers like Bitty echoed the sentiment that the staff’s good spirits and humor made the experience stand out. The personal interactions and spontaneous jokes from guides like Sylvia and Mimi create a relaxed, engaging atmosphere that feels more like a lively city tour than a formal sightseeing bus.

This is not just about ticking landmarks off a list; it’s about enjoying Stockholm’s charm from multiple angles—on land, on water, and through the stories told along the way.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick, fun overview of Stockholm’s key sights. It’s also perfect for families with older children, thanks to its lively guides and exciting water splash. If you’re someone who enjoys humorous storytelling combined with scenic views, you’ll find this experience particularly rewarding.

However, if you prefer a more in-depth, lengthy tour or need special accessibility accommodations, you might want to look for other options. Still, for an hour of entertainment, sightseeing, and a splash of adventure—it’s tough to beat.

The Sum Up

This Stockholm amphibious bus tour offers a fresh, lively way to encounter the city’s top sights. Its blend of land and water exploration, guided by charismatic hosts, makes for a memorable experience that captures the city’s beauty and spirit. The interactive guides, scenic vistas, and splash into the water keep things exciting and engaging from start to finish.

For travelers seeking a lighthearted, visually stunning introduction to Stockholm, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value entertainment alongside education and want to enjoy a fun, quick snapshot of the Swedish capital.

If you’re after a unique, lively sightseeing adventure that’s worth the price, this amphibious bus tour is a top pick. It will leave you with great photos, funny stories, and a new appreciation for Stockholm’s picturesque charm.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 3 years old are permitted, but the experience isn’t suitable for very young kids or wheelchair users.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 1 hour, making it an easy addition to other sightseeing plans without taking up too much time.

Does the tour include both land and water?
Yes, approximately 50% of the tour is spent on land, and the other half on water after the bus splashes into the harbor.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, dress according to the weather; the tour takes place outside, so rain or cold might affect comfort.

Are there any restrictions on luggage?
Oversized luggage is not permitted onboard, so travel light if you want to join.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
The live guide speaks English, and reviews praise guides like Sylvia and Mimi for their clear, engaging narration.