Vasa Museum and Icebar Stockholm

Traveling through Stockholm offers a chance to experience a perfect blend of history and modern novelty. The Vasa Museum and Icebar tour is designed for visitors curious about Sweden’s maritime past and craving a memorable icy adventure. This tour promises a visit to the famous Vasa warship, a chance to walk through Stockholm’s charming Old Town, and an unforgettable experience at the Icebar Stockholm.

While the experience is generally praised for its unique sights and fun atmosphere, some travelers have found the scheduling a bit hurried and the ticket process confusing. Still, if you’re interested in iconic Swedish history paired with a cool (literally) cocktail experience, this tour might be right up your alley. It’s best suited for those who enjoy cultural sights with a bit of quirky fun, especially if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and some cold temperatures.

Key Points

• Educational and Fun: Learn about the Vasa ship’s fascinating history and see it up close.
• Authentic Old Town Walk: Experience the cobbled streets and historic buildings of Gamla Stan.
• Unique Ice Experience: Visit the Icebar Stockholm, where everything is made of ice and the temperature is -5°C.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel with 24 hours’ notice.
• Limited for Children: Not suitable for kids under 14.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers found the process confusing and the experience rushed.

Our journey begins on the island of Djurgården, home to Stockholm’s Vasa Museum—a flagship attraction for history buffs and curious travelers alike. The museum houses the Vasa warship, a 17th-century vessel that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was salvaged in the 20th century. We loved the way the museum offers a detailed narrative of the ship’s history, construction, and the archaeological efforts to retrieve it from the sea bottom.

The boat itself is truly impressive—large, well-preserved, and housed in a dedicated building that allows visitors to walk underneath and around it. The guided tour provides context about the ship’s design, its ambitious construction, and the tragic timing that led to its sinking. One review mentions frustration with the ticket process, noting, “Im not sure why you’d sell a tour without tickets,” highlighting some confusion about how to access the museum. It’s worth double-checking your ticket details beforehand.

The Vasa ship’s story is a reminder of Sweden’s naval ambitions and the perils of overconfidence in shipbuilding. For history lovers, this museum delivers a hands-on lesson in maritime engineering, political ambitions, and the importance of preservation.

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The Old Town Stroll – Gamla Stan

After immersing in maritime history, we move to Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s historic heart. This is where cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and centuries-old architecture create a living open-air museum atmosphere. The narrow, twisting alleys are perfect for wandering and soaking up the bohemian vibe. We loved the way the area feels like stepping back in time, with shops, cafes, and historic sites lining the streets.

The guided walk through Gamla Stan is a highlight, offering insights into the city’s origins and stories behind key buildings. The review mentions the “hustle and bustle” of the streets, which can be hectic, but that’s part of the charm. It’s a lively place, so comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore on your own afterward.

This part of the tour is ideal for those who want to experience Stockholm’s authentic old town—think of it as walking through a well-preserved historical neighborhood rather than a tourist trap. Its central location makes it an easy addition to your sightseeing day.

The Arctic Chill at Icebar Stockholm

No visit to Stockholm is complete without experiencing the Icebar, located at the Hotel C Stockholm. The staff prepares you with a warm fur poncho and mittens to brave the chilly interior at -5°C. Inside, everything is made of ice—from the walls to the glasses, which are custom carved from blocks of ice from the Torne River.

The Icebar is typically a quick visit, but it’s a memorable one. You get to sip a vodka in an ice glass while learning about the bar’s construction and concept. Reviewers note that children under 18 will be served non-alcoholic drinks, making it a family-friendly experience if you prefer a milder visit.

Some travelers, however, have voiced disappointment about the organization. One review states, “The Icebar was closed,” which can be frustrating if you’ve made a special trip for it. Double-check the opening hours before you go, especially during off-peak seasons or late hours.

The Icebar provides a fun, instagram-worthy photo opportunity and a chance to cool down after your walking tour. It’s a quirky, relatively inexpensive way to add an extra layer of fun to your Stockholm visit.

Your adventure starts at the Vasa Museum, where you’ll meet your guide at the entrance marked “Tour by Kino” — look for the sign. The museum visit usually includes a narrated overview of the Vasa’s history and the archaeological efforts to recover it. Expect the tour to be educational but also engaging, with plenty of visuals and stories to keep your interest.

Next, the group moves directly into the Old Town (Gamla Stan). Here, you’ll stroll along cobblestoned streets, viewing sights like the Royal Palace and Stockholm Cathedral, while your guide shares stories of Stockholm’s origins and its historic characters. The walk is designed to be manageable, but it does involve some hilly, uneven terrain typical of old cities.

Finally, the tour concludes at the Icebar, where you can relax, take photos, and enjoy a drink (or a non-alcoholic alternative). The whole experience typically lasts around a day, but remember that timings can be tight, and reviews indicate some travelers felt rushed — especially if the Icebar was unexpectedly closed or if they had limited time.

Group Size and Accessibility

The tour is suitable for all, including those in wheelchairs, thanks to its accessibility. The group size isn’t specified but, with a live guide, you can expect a reasonably intimate experience that allows for questions and interaction. The tour guide speaks English and Arabic, accommodating a broad range of visitors.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Comfortable shoes are essential, given the cobblestones and walking involved.
• Expect temperatures of -5°C at the Icebar — dress warmly for the experience.
• Tickets are not included; you’ll need to purchase entry separately for the museum and Icebar, so budget accordingly.
• Confirm opening hours beforehand, especially for the Icebar, which may be closed during certain hours or seasons.
• There’s no hotel pickup, so plan your transport to the starting point accordingly.

While the Vasa Museum itself is a true highlight—offering a rare glimpse into early 17th-century shipbuilding—the tour’s value depends heavily on logistical clarity. Some reviews reveal confusion about ticketing, with travelers uncertain whether they’re purchasing access or just a guided experience. It’s best to verify what’s included when booking.

The Old Town walk is arguably the most authentic part of the tour, providing a genuine feel of Stockholm’s historic core. The narrow streets, ancient facades, and lively atmosphere are exactly what many travelers seek. However, expect crowds and uneven surfaces, especially in peak season.

The Icebar offers a fun, visually striking experience, but some travelers have found it less impressive if it’s closed unexpectedly or if time is limited. It’s a quick visit but a memorable one, especially for first-timers in Stockholm.

Price-wise, the tour offers a good mix of attractions, but since tickets are extra, it’s worth comparing this guided experience to visiting the sites independently if you prefer more flexibility and potentially lower costs.

This tour is best suited for visitors with a keen interest in Swedish maritime history and those who enjoy quirky, visual experiences like the Icebar. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want a structured overview of Stockholm’s highlights, especially if they appreciate guided commentary and group interaction.

However, it may not be perfect for travelers on a strict budget or those seeking a fully independent experience, given the extra costs and some logistical uncertainties. Those with mobility issues should confirm accessibility, though the tour claims to accommodate wheelchairs.

If you’re short on time but want a snapshot of Stockholm’s past and present, this tour covers key points in a single day, making it a practical choice.

For history buffs and those seeking a taste of Stockholm’s quirkiest attractions, this tour delivers on its promises. The Vasa Museum alone makes for a compelling visit, offering a rare glimpse into a 17th-century ship that’s remarkably well-preserved. Walking through Gamla Stan transports you back centuries, and the Icebar provides a fun, Instagrammable finale that’s unique to the city.

The combination works well if you’re prepared for a busy schedule and some chilly moments. The guided aspect adds educational value, making it a good choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing but a narrative to go with it.

On the downside, some reviews highlight issues with tickets and timing, so it’s wise to confirm all details before booking. Also, the experience’s value hinges on your interests—if you love maritime history and cool cocktails, you’ll find it worthwhile; if you prefer unstructured exploration, you might want to customize your day.

In all, this tour offers a solid introduction to Stockholm’s maritime and cultural scene, making it a memorable part of your Swedish adventure—just be prepared for the logistical quirks.

Are tickets included in the tour? No, tickets for the Vasa Museum and Icebar are purchased separately. The tour guides do not sell tickets directly.

What is the meeting point? The tour begins at the entrance of the Vasa Museum, where a guide will be holding a sign labeled “Tour by Kino.”

Is the Icebar experience suitable for children? Yes, children under 18 will be served non-alcoholic drinks, making it a family-friendly activity.

How long does the entire tour last? The tour’s duration isn’t explicitly specified but typically covers a full day, including museum visits, walking, and the Icebar experience.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs? Yes, the tour claims to be wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear to the Icebar? Dress warmly, at least with layers, as the interior is kept at -5°C. You’ll be provided with a fur poncho and mittens.

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

What if the Icebar is closed? Some reviews mention closures; it’s best to check the opening hours ahead of time and confirm closer to your visit.

Is the tour good for solo travelers? Yes, the group size is suitable for solo travelers, and guided tours facilitate social interactions.

How do I prepare for the walking tour through Gamla Stan? Wear comfortable shoes suitable for cobblestone streets, and be prepared for some hilly terrain.

This Vasa Museum and Icebar Stockholm tour offers a good balance of history, culture, and fun. With a bit of planning and awareness of its quirks, it can be a memorable highlight of your Stockholm visit, particularly if you enjoy learning about shipwrecks and experiencing the city’s coolest bar.

You can check availability for your dates here: