Vasa Museum and Icebar Stockholm

A Practical Look at Stockholm’s Vasa Museum and Icebar Experience

Taking a tour that combines Stockholm’s maritime past with a frosty experience sounds appealing—if only because it promises a bit of everything. This particular journey, offered by Stockholm Tour by Kino, takes you on a single-day trip to see the world’s first Ice Bar and the famed Vasa Museum on Djurgården Island, plus a walk through Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s charming old town. From the outside, it looks like a fun, varied way to spend a day exploring the Swedish capital.

What I really like about this experience is its blend of history and fun. The Vasa Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into a 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage and was remarkably well-preserved. The Icebar adds a splash of novelty, with its icy interior and drinks served in ice glasses—a memorable, Instagram-worthy moment. Plus, the walking tour of Gamla Stan gives you a sense of the city’s old-world charm, full of narrow alleys and centuries-old houses.

One aspect to consider is that the tour’s timing can feel rushed, especially if you’re eager to linger at each stop. Some reviews mention that the schedule is hectic, and the Icebar may even be closed unexpectedly, which can be disappointing if you’re counting on that experience. And there’s a slight hassle if tickets aren’t included upfront, as some travelers found it confusing or frustrating. It’s a good idea to double-check what’s included before booking.

This tour offers a solid introduction to Stockholm’s highlights, but it’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a quick, guided overview rather than a leisurely day. The value is good if you’re keen to tick off these popular sights in one go, and the included guide can enhance your understanding of each site—just be prepared for some tight scheduling.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Includes a guided tour that helps you understand the history behind the Vasa ship and the charm of Gamla Stan.
• Visit the Vasa Museum, home to the well-preserved 17th-century warship, offering a tangible slice of Swedish maritime history.
• Experience the Icebar at C Stockholm, with its -5°C interior and ice glasses, making for a truly cool (pun intended) experience.
• Hectic schedule reported by some travelers, so plan your expectations accordingly if you want to linger longer at each site.
• Tickets not included in the price, which can lead to some confusion and potential extra costs at the door.
• Accessible and offered in multiple languages, including English and Arabic, making it flexible for international visitors.

Exploring Stockholm’s Maritime Past at the Vasa Museum

If you’re like me, you’ll find the Vasa Museum a captivating starting point. It’s located on Djurgården, a peaceful island with several museums and attractions. The star here is the Vasa warship, a 17th-century vessel that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. The ship was salvaged almost intact in the 1960s and now stands as a stunning, tangible reminder of Sweden’s naval ambitions.

A guided tour here (or just exploring on your own) reveals the ship’s fascinating story—how it was built, why it sank, and the effort to preserve it. The museum’s displays are extensive, with detailed models, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. It’s a place where you gain real insight into Swedish maritime history, making it worth the visit even if you’re not typically into ships.

One of the reasons I recommend this stop is because of the quality of the exhibit. The ship is enormous and beautifully preserved, and you get a close-up view of its intricate craftsmanship. You’ll learn about the naval arms race of the 1600s, the political ambitions behind the ship, and the engineering marvel that kept her intact underwater for centuries.

A tip—since the tour doesn’t include tickets, check ahead or be prepared to buy them on-site, which might add to your overall costs. Some travelers found the process a little confusing, especially if they expected a ticket to be included. Still, the experience itself is well worth the small hassle.

Strolling Through Gamla Stan – Stockholm’s Historic Heart

Next, your guide takes you on a walk through Gamla Stan, the city’s vibrant ancient quarter. You’ll pass cobblestone streets, narrow alleys, and colorful houses that date back from the 16th to the 19th centuries. It’s a living museum, with cafes, shops, and landmarks like the Royal Palace.

This walk is a must for lovers of old towns. I love the way Gamla Stan maintains its medieval charm, offering plenty of photo opportunities and a sense of stepping back in time. The guide will point out some of the best spots, but simply wandering on your own is a pleasure too.

The atmosphere in Gamla Stan is relaxed but lively, with a bohemian vibe. You’ll want to stroll slowly, enjoy a coffee or fika (Swedish coffee break), and soak up the historic ambiance. A note—since this is a passing-through experience, don’t expect deep dives into each landmark, but rather a taste of Stockholm’s old-world charm.

The Ice Bar Experience at Hotel C Stockholm

After the historic tour, the adventure continues at Stockholm’s Ice Bar inside the Hotel C Stockholm. Here, you’ll be handed warm fur clothing before entering the -5°C interior. The entire bar—including the glasses—are made of pure ice from the Torne River. It’s a surreal environment, perfect for photos and a fun break from the cold Swedish outdoors.

Your guide explains the concept and construction of the bar, which is a popular attraction for visitors seeking something uniquely Swedish. A vodka cocktail in an ice glass is the highlight, though guests under 18 will receive a non-alcoholic drink.

However, some travelers report that the Ice Bar can be closed unexpectedly, and the experience might feel rushed if your schedule is tight. One reviewer was surprised to find it “very hectic in terms of time,” which is worth considering if you’re particular about savoring the moment or if you’re traveling with kids.

The experience is definitely memorable, but it’s more about the atmosphere and novelty than a deep dive into Swedish drink culture. It’s a quick, fun stop that adds a quirky twist to your Stockholm day.

Logistics and Practical Tips

This tour is designed as a one-day experience, with a specified starting time—though you need to check availability for the exact schedule. The meeting point is right outside the Vasa Museum, marked clearly with a “Tour By Kino” sign, and the tour ends back at the same location.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes since there’s a fair amount of walking on cobblestone streets and within the museum. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is important for visitors with mobility needs.

Since lunch, drinks, or extra tickets aren’t included, bring some cash or cards to buy tickets at the museum or for snacks and drinks. Remember, children under 14 aren’t suitable for this activity, mainly because of the cold and the nature of the Ice Bar experience.

Cancellation policies are flexible—cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund—and you can reserve now and pay later, which is helpful if your plans aren’t final.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a quick, guided overview of some of Stockholm’s most iconic sights. It’s ideal if you’re interested in maritime history, as the Vasa Museum offers a rare glimpse into Sweden’s naval past. It also appeals to those looking for a fun, memorable activity like the Ice Bar, especially if novelty appeals to you.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or detailed exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. The tour’s schedule can be tight, and some attractions aren’t ticket-included, so it’s best to be prepared. It’s also a good choice for those who enjoy quirky experiences, as the Ice Bar is quite unique, and the old town walk offers authentic Stockholm charm.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Vasa Museum and Icebar Stockholm tour offers a compact, engaging way to see a cross-section of Stockholm’s highlights. You’ll love the chance to get up close with the Vasa ship, understanding its significance firsthand, and the novelty of drinking in an ice bar. The Gamla Stan walk adds a charming historic flavor that rounds out the day.

That said, the experience can feel a bit hurried, and some sites might have surprises like closed facilities. The fact that tickets aren’t included upfront could also complicate things if you’re not prepared. But for those who want an efficient introduction to the city’s history, culture, and fun activities, this tour delivers decent value.

It’s best for active travelers, history buffs eager to see the Vasa, and those curious about the Ice Bar experience. If you’re okay with some scheduling tightness and are looking for a lively, well-rounded taste of Stockholm, this tour could be just right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include tickets for the Vasa Museum and Ice Bar?
No, tickets are not included in the tour package. You’ll need to purchase them separately at the venue, so be prepared for that extra step.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour is designed for a full day, but the exact schedule depends on availability and timing. It’s structured to fit into one day, with some mention of a somewhat rushed pace.

Is the Ice Bar suitable for children?
Children under 14 are not recommended for this experience, mainly because of the cold environment and alcohol service for guests over 18.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for all travelers to enjoy the experience.

What should I wear for the Ice Bar?
Warm clothing is recommended, as you’ll be inside the Ice Bar at -5°C. You’ll be provided with fur ponchos and mittens, but layers will help you stay comfortable.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Some travelers report that the schedule can be hectic, so if you prefer to linger longer or explore more deeply, you might find this tour somewhat rushed.

This tour offers a lively, practical snapshot of Stockholm, perfect for those wanting to combine history, fun, and a touch of the unusual in one day. For a well-organized, if slightly hurried, introduction to the city’s highlights, it’s worth considering—just plan ahead for tickets and manage your expectations about pacing.