Vasa Museum and Icebar Stockholm

If you’re planning a trip to Stockholm and considering a tour that mixes history, local charm, and a bit of fun ice-cold flair, the Vasa Museum and Icebar Stockholm might catch your eye. While it’s not perfect — and some reviews point out areas for improvement — it offers a solid introduction to some of the city’s highlights. We’ll walk through what you can expect, what’s worth noting, and who might get the most from this experience.

One thing we love about this tour is how it combines learning about the iconic Vasa ship with an authentic walk through Stockholm’s historic Old Town, Gamla Stan. It’s a nice mix of history and local atmosphere. Another highlight is the Icebar, where you’ll find a unique experience with its icy interior and cool drinks, especially during cold months.

A potential downside? Some travelers have found the pace a bit hectic, and a few have been disappointed to find the Icebar closed during their visit. Plus, there’s a note about the ticketing — many say it’s not entirely clear what’s included — so manage your expectations accordingly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick, guided overview of Stockholm’s key sights, especially if you’re interested in the Vasa Museum or curious about trying the Icebar experience. It’s not the most comprehensive or luxurious option, but it offers a decent snapshot of the city in a manageable half-day.

Key Points

• Includes a visit to the Vasa Museum, where you can learn about the famous warship’s history.
• Offers a walk through Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s oldest district, with its charming cobblestone streets.
• Features the Icebar experience, with icy decor and a cooling atmosphere, perfect for a quick photo and a drink.
• Tour is guided, with live commentary in English and Arabic.
• Not suitable for children under 14, and tickets, meals, or drinks are not included in the booking.
• Reviews highlight some issues with timing and ticket clarity, so keep that in mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Vasa Museum

Your day begins at the Vasa Museum, located on the island of Djurgården. It’s a prized spot in Stockholm, home to the 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage and was later salvaged. Visiting this museum is like stepping into a maritime time capsule, with the ship beautifully preserved and displayed.

The Vasa itself is impressive — huge, detailed, and evocative of a bygone era. We loved the way the museum provides context about its construction, sinking, and recovery, making the experience much more meaningful. Expect to spend some time exploring the exhibits, reading about the ship, and even taking photos of the vessel’s intricacies.

Walking Tour of Gamla Stan (Old Town)

Next, the tour guides you through Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic core. Narrow, twisting alleys and cobblestone streets immediately transport you back in time. This area is packed with charming houses, many dating from the 16th to 19th centuries, giving it a lively, bohemian feel.

Walking through here is akin to wandering through a living museum. You’ll see some of the city’s most iconic sights, and the atmosphere is lively with street performers, quaint cafes, and shops. The guided narration adds depth, helping you understand the history behind the buildings and streets.

The Icebar Experience

The highlight for many is the Icebar Stockholm, located at Hotel C Stockholm. The bar is open year-round, and you’ll be handed a warm fur poncho and mittens before entering. Inside, the temperature drops to -5°C, and everything from the furniture to the glasses is made of ice from the Torne River.

The staff explains the bar’s construction, and a vodka in an ice glass is served as part of the experience. It’s a fun, photogenic place — perfect for a quick break and some memorable photos. However, a note from reviews — the Icebar can be closed unexpectedly or might have limited hours, so check availability beforehand.

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What’s Not in the Tour

• Tickets are not included; you’ll need to purchase entry separately for the Vasa Museum and Icebar.
• No meals or drinks are included, so consider bringing some cash or card for additional expenses.
• The tour ends back at the meeting point, so it’s easy to explore more if you want.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer expressed frustration, saying, “I’m not sure why you’d sell a tour without tickets,” pointing out that the listing might be misleading about what’s included. Another mentioned, “The Icebar was closed,” which was disappointing, especially if you’re counting on it as part of your experience.

On the bright side, many travelers appreciated the guided aspect, which helps you understand the sights rather than just seeing them passively. And the skip-the-line feature at the Vasa Museum is a definite plus, especially during busy times.

The tour’s timing can be a bit hectic, with some saying they felt rushed or that the schedule was tight. It’s worth considering if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to linger longer at certain spots.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: The tour is valid for one day, with starting times depending on availability.
• Price: Remember, tickets, meals, and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is great for travelers with mobility needs.
• Clothing: Dress comfortably, especially if you plan to stay longer at the Icebar — layers are key.
• Children: Not suitable for children under 14, mainly due to the Icebar age restrictions and the nature of the sites.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a quick, guided overview of Stockholm’s highlights, this tour fits the bill. It’s particularly good if you’re interested in the Vasa ship or want a taste of the Old Town without wandering on your own. The Icebar adds a playful element, especially if you’re curious about the ice experience and don’t mind the cold.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, or want to spend more time at each site, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Also, be aware of potential issues with ticket clarity and Icebar availability — it’s worth double-checking before booking.

Final Thoughts

The Vasa Museum and Icebar Stockholm tour offers an efficient way to get a snapshot of the city’s history and unique attractions. While it may not be perfect — some travelers found the timing tight, and the Icebar can be unpredictable — it provides a memorable, guided introduction that’s worth considering if you want a curated experience.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy combining learning with a dash of fun, and who appreciate guided tours that help you understand the places you’re visiting. Just keep expectations realistic, plan for extra expenses, and check the Icebar hours in advance.

If you’re okay with a busy schedule and want a solid overview of Stockholm’s highlights, this tour can be a worthwhile addition to your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 14, mainly because of the Icebar age restrictions and the nature of the sites.

Are tickets included in the tour price?
No, tickets for the Vasa Museum and Icebar are not included. You’ll need to purchase those separately.

What should I wear for the Icebar?
Dress comfortably and consider layering, as it’s always cold inside at -5°C. The tour provides a fur poncho and mittens.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible, making it manageable for travelers with mobility needs.

How long does the tour last?
It’s valid for one day, but the actual guided experience probably takes a few hours depending on your pace and time at each site.

Will I get to see the Vasa ship close up?
Yes, the Vasa is the main feature of the museum, and you’ll have plenty of opportunity to see and photograph it.

What is the walk through Gamla Stan like?
It’s a charming stroll through narrow alleys, with houses dating from the 16th to 19th centuries. It offers a chance to enjoy Stockholm’s historic atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must. You might also want a camera for photos and extra cash for souvenirs or additional drinks.

Is the Icebar open year-round?
Yes, it’s open year-round, but hours can vary, and sometimes it might be temporarily closed, so check ahead.

In the end, this tour is a convenient way to tick off some of Stockholm’s best-known sights and enjoy a bit of fun in the cold. Just be prepared for a busy schedule, and do a little homework beforehand to avoid surprises.

You can check availability for your dates here: