Stockholm City: Visit Icebar and Vasamuseum

This tour offers a quick yet diverse taste of Stockholm’s top sights, combining the impressive Vasa Museum—home to the only preserved 17th-century ship—and the famous Icebar made entirely of ice. It’s a lively way to get a sense of the city’s maritime heritage and Scandinavian coolness in just a couple of hours.

Two things I particularly like about this experience: first, the guided walk through Djurgården and Old Town that adds context and local flavor, and second, the chance to enjoy a drink in the Icebar, which is not just a novelty but a symbol of Swedish design and creativity.

A potential drawback? The short time allocated at the Vasa Museum—about 45 minutes—may leave some visitors wishing for a bit more time to really absorb the exhibit. Plus, if you’re hoping to visit the Icebar, be aware that reservations are strongly recommended, as reviews highlight that overcrowding can prevent entry—even for tour groups.

• The Vasa Museum features the only well-preserved ship from the 17th century, providing a glimpse into Sweden’s maritime past.
• The Icebar, built by ICEHOTEL, is a must-see for fans of cool design and frosty fun, but requires advance booking due to capacity limits.
• The guided walk through Old Town offers cultural insights and scenic views, making the short stops meaningful.
• Transportation logistics include a brief ferry ride, which adds a fun, scenic element to the tour.
• Pricing covers entrance fees for the Museum and Icebar, but the value depends on your interest in these attractions.
• Timing adjustments start from October 2024, with Icebar hours shifting to the afternoon, so plan accordingly.
• Reviews reveal some disappointments related to overcrowding at the Icebar and limited museum time, so manage expectations.
• Accessibility is available; the tour is wheelchair friendly, but certain restrictions like no baby strollers or baby carriages apply.

If you’re short on time but eager to get a feel for Stockholm’s history and cool culture, this tour offers a well-rounded overview. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, scenic walks, and unique experiences like the Icebar.

You’ll start at the Vasa Museum, which is a genuine highlight. The ship, salvaged from the seabed after sinking on its maiden voyage, is a stunning example of 17th-century shipbuilding. The museum is situated in Djurgården, a royal park once reserved for the monarchy’s hunting grounds, now a lively area full of attractions. I love how the guide, who might be named Kino, adds context about the royal history and the natural surroundings, like the over 2000 oak trees used to build the Vasa.

From there, a quick walk takes you to the ferry for a scenic 10-minute ride across the water, giving you a fresh perspective of Stockholm’s archipelago. The journey continues on foot through Old Town (Gamla Stan), where cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and historic alleys create a charming backdrop. The guide will share stories about Queen Kristina, who added lions and bears to the royal hunts, and Queen Christina herself, adding a touch of royal intrigue to your walk.

The highlight for many will be the Icebar, where everything from the glasses to the walls is constructed from frozen water. You’ll be given a warm coat and gloves—necessary at -7°C (19.4°F)—but be sure to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking in cold environments. The interior design changes yearly, making each visit somewhat unique.

Important to note: starting in October 2024, the Icebar hours shift to the afternoon at 3 p.m., so if you’re a morning traveler, plan accordingly. The entry fee includes a drink, which you can choose from their menu—just remember, if you pinch one of the glassware, it will melt back into water in your pocket.

Caution: because everything is made of ice, capacity is limited, and reviews point out the importance of making reservations ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Overcrowding can prevent your entry, which is frustrating if you’ve traveled all this way excited for the icy experience.

The tour fee covers the Vasa Museum entrance (190-240 SEK), the ferry ride (~60 SEK), and the Icebar admission (265 SEK) with a drink. While the combined cost might seem high, it’s a decent value for those wanting a curated experience without the hassle of booking each component separately.

However, one review pointed out that the short museum visit (about 45 minutes) might leave some feeling rushed, especially if you’re a history enthusiast. If you’re a dedicated museum-goer or a history buff, consider visiting the Vasa Museum on your own for more time, then joining the Icebar separately if you’re eager for that icy adventure.

The tour’s logistics are straightforward: meet outside the Vasa Museum, walk to the ferry, take a brief ride, walk through Old Town, and then enjoy the Icebar. The entire experience lasts about two hours, making it a good option for a quick introduction to Stockholm’s highlights.

This experience is best suited for travelers with a curiosity for history and a sense of fun. If you enjoy scenic walks, cultural insights, and a chance to try something truly Swedish—like drinking in an ice chamber—you’ll find value here.

It’s also ideal for visitors with limited time who want to maximize their Stockholm visit, but be prepared to manage expectations around museum time and Icebar reservations. If you’re traveling alone or as a couple, the group size is manageable, and guides often speak multiple languages, including English, Swedish, and Arabic.

Not recommended for children under 18 or travelers with mobility restrictions, as the Icebar temperature is very cold, and some areas may have accessibility limitations.

This tour offers a neat combo of maritime history and icy fun. The Vasa Museum stands out as a highlight—an impressively preserved ship that sparks curiosity—and the Icebar offers a memorable, if chilly, experience. The guided walk adds local flavor, making it more than just a ticketed visit.

The main downside is the potential for overcrowding at the Icebar, which many reviews point out, so advance reservations are wise. The short museum visit might also feel rushed for some, but if you’re looking for a quick, enjoyable taste of Stockholm’s culture and cool attractions, this tour hits the mark.

For the budget-conscious, consider whether you value the convenience of a guided package or prefer to explore these sites independently. Either way, combining history, scenic walks, and a splash of icy fun makes for a memorable day in Stockholm.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 due to the cold temperature and alcohol rules at the Icebar.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee includes the guided visit to the Vasa Museum, the ferry ride, and the Icebar entrance ticket with a drink.

Can I visit the Vasa Museum and Icebar separately?
Yes, you can visit the Vasa Museum independently and go to the Icebar on your own, but this tour combines both for convenience.

How long do I have at the Icebar?
You’ll spend about 30-45 minutes at the Icebar, enough to enjoy a drink and marvel at the icy environment.

What should I wear to the Icebar?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and expect to be provided with a coat and gloves. The temperature is -7°C (19.4°F).

Do I need to make a reservation for the Icebar?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak times, to ensure entry.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some restrictions like no baby strollers or baby carriages apply.

What is the best time of day to do this tour?
Starting times vary, but from October 2024, the Icebar opens at 3 p.m., so plan accordingly.

How much does the tour cost?
Prices cover entrance fees and transportation, with the total roughly around 515-565 SEK plus ferry fare (~60 SEK), but check current prices before booking.

In the end, this tour offers a functional, enjoyable way to see two of Stockholm’s most iconic attractions in a manageable timeframe. It’s perfect for those looking to combine history, scenic walks, and a touch of quirky Swedish innovation without overextending their schedule. Just keep in mind the importance of reservations and managing museum time for the best experience.