Stockholm City: Visit Icebar and Vasamuseum

Traveling to Stockholm offers a chance to experience a city that beautifully marries history and modern attractions. This particular tour combines two of the Swedish capital’s most distinctive landmarks—the Vasa Museum, home to the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship, and the Icebar, a frosty bar made entirely of ice, located near the Ice Hotel in Norrland.

We’ll take a close look at what you can expect, the pros and cons, and whether this tour is worth your time and money. Having reviewed several traveler experiences, we’ll also share practical tips to help you get the most out of your visit.

Three Aspects We Love About This Tour

• Historical Significance of the Vasa Ship: Seeing the remarkably preserved 17th-century warship up close is a rare chance to connect with Sweden’s maritime past.
• Unique Icebar Experience: Enjoying a drink in a bar sculpted entirely from ice—an absolute must-try for those seeking something different.
• Guided Tour Through Old Town: Passing through Stockholm’s charming Old Town adds an authentic touch and offers photo-worthy moments.

You can check if your dates are available here:

One Consideration

The timing and reservation system for the Icebar can be tricky. As per recent reviews, overcrowding has occasionally prevented entry, which can be disappointing if this is the main reason for your booking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers wanting a taste of something offbeat, and those eager for a quick glimpse into Stockholm’s iconic sights without dedicating an entire day.

Good To Know

• Balanced Mix of history and modern fun
• Short duration makes it suitable for tight schedules
• Pre-booking highly recommended for the Icebar due to popularity
• Walks and ferry rides offer scenic views and a bit of adventure
• Limited time at the Vasa Museum ensures a quick yet informative visit
• Temperature at Icebar is -7°C, so dress warmly

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Starting Point: Vasa Museum

Your journey begins at the Vasa Museum, situated on Djurgården, a former royal park rich with stories of past monarchs and wildlife. The Vasa ship itself is a marvel—a 17th-century warship that sank after sailing just a mile from the harbor, only to be salvaged and preserved over centuries.

The vessel took 2.5 years to build, highlighting the impressive craftsmanship of its time. Visitors get a glimpse into this incredible feat of maritime engineering, with the ship’s intricate carvings and enormous size leaving a lasting impression. The museum setting offers detailed displays, but with only about 45 minutes for the museum, be prepared for a brisk walkthrough.

The Guided Tour and the Walk to Old Town

Your guide, often a friendly and knowledgeable person, will lead you through the museum, sharing insights about the ship’s construction, sinking, and recovery. One reviewer noted the guide was very communicative, making the experience more engaging.

After the museum visit, you’ll walk for about five minutes to catch a short ferry ride. The ferry, taking roughly ten minutes, offers scenic views of Stockholm’s waterways—an excellent chance for photos and to enjoy the city’s aquatic charm.

Once ashore, your guide will lead you through Stockholm’s Old Town (Gamla Stan). This area is a maze of cobbled streets, historic squares, and colorful buildings—perfect for a quick photo stop and a taste of Stockholm’s medieval charm. The guide’s commentary will enhance your appreciation for the city’s history, especially as you pass landmarks and learn about the royal hunting grounds of Djurgården.

The Icebar Experience

Next up is the highlight for many: the Icebar, created by the ICEHOTEL. The interior design changes annually due to its icy construction, so every visit offers something new. You are provided with a warm coat and gloves, but comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended because the temperature drops to about -7°C (19.4°F).

The Icebar’s unique setting—full of ice sculptures and furniture—is both visually stunning and a bit surreal. The experience lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, during which you can enjoy a drink served in a glass made from ice. It’s a fun, Instagram-worthy moment, but keep in mind that the space can be crowded. One reviewer mentioned that overcrowding prevented them from entering the bar, which was a disappointment, highlighting the importance of reservations or arriving early.

Practical Details and Logistics

• The tour is about 2 hours long, with flexible start times based on availability.
• You’ll meet at the Vasa Museum entrance, holding a sign for easy identification.
• The cost includes a guided tour, ferry ride, and entry to the Icebar with a drink.
• Additional costs like the Vasa Museum ticket (from 190 to 240 SEK) and ferry fee (about 60 SEK, payable by card) are separate.
• Payment can be made in Euros, Dollars, or SEK, but note that the Icebar entrance fee (around SEK 265) is paid on site.
• Not suitable for children under 18 and not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly.

Real Experiences and Insights

From reviews, some travelers expressed disappointment if they couldn’t get into the Icebar due to overcrowding, emphasizing the need for reservations. One visitor commented, “We enjoyed the museum. It was very interesting. But the highlight and number one reason I booked this tour was to visit the Icebar which never happened due to it being overcrowded and not having a reservation.”

Another pointed out that the price feels high, especially considering the additional costs for museum and ferry tickets, but acknowledged that the unique experience of the Icebar and the scenic walk through Old Town offered good value for a short visit.

Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Book early or reserve ahead for the Icebar if possible, especially during peak seasons.
• Dress warmly, especially your feet, as the Icebar is icy and cold.
• Arrive promptly at the meeting point to maximize your time at each stop.
• Enjoy the scenic ferry ride and walk through Old Town—these are part of the experience and add to the overall value.
• Be aware of the limited time at the museum and Icebar—if you’re a history enthusiast or a fan of icy adventures, this tour provides a quick yet memorable glimpse.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This experience offers a well-rounded glimpse of Stockholm’s highlights, combining the awe-inspiring Vasa ship with a fun, frosty visit to the Icebar. Its brief duration makes it suitable for travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick taste of the city’s cultural and quirky sides.

Despite some challenges with overcrowding at the Icebar, the tour’s value lies in the combination of history, scenic walks, and the chance to enjoy something truly unique. The guide’s insights, scenic ferry ride, and the chance to see the largest oak in the Royal park add depth to your visit.

If you’re looking for a short, engaging activity that balances learning and fun, this tour hits the mark. However, if visiting the Icebar is your main goal, consider making a reservation ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, mainly because of the alcohol component at the Icebar and the cold temperature.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including the museum visit, ferry ride, walk through Old Town, and Icebar experience.

Do I need to book the Icebar separately?
No, entry to the Icebar is included in the tour, but due to popularity, reservations are recommended to ensure entry.

What should I wear to the Icebar?
Dress warmly with comfortable shoes, and wear the provided coat and gloves. The temperature is around -7°C (19.4°F).

How much extra should I budget for the museum and ferry?
The Vasa Museum tickets range from 190 to 240 SEK, and ferry costs about 60 SEK, payable by card.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
Guides speak English, Swedish, and Arabic.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for travel planning.

In summary, this tour provides a practical and memorable way to see Stockholm’s top sights in a short window. It blends history, scenic walking, and a fun icy experience—perfect for curious travelers eager to tick off must-see landmarks while enjoying some playful, chilly fun.

You can check if your dates are available here: