Stockholm City: Visit Icebar and Vasamuseum

Discover Stockholm’s Unique Attractions in a Short Tour

This 2-hour guided tour offers a compact way to experience two of Stockholm’s most distinctive sights: the Vasa Museum, home to the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship, and the Icebar, crafted entirely from ice and part of the Ice Hotel in Norrland. Starting from the Vasa Museum, the tour takes you on a scenic journey through Stockholm with a brief ferry ride and a walk through Old Town, before ending with a visit to the famous Icebar, where you can enjoy a drink in a frozen setting.

While the tour is well-organized and accessible, it’s important to note that timing and reservation issues can impact the experience. The Icebar now opens from 3 P.M. starting October 2024, which might influence plans, especially for visitors eager to visit earlier in the day. This tour suits those who want a guided overview of Stockholm’s highlights with a focus on the Vasa ship and the Icebar’s unique ambiance.

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Key Points

• Duration: 2 hours, with a flexible schedule depending on availability
• Includes: Guided tour, ferry ride, entry to the Icebar with a drink
• Highlights: The Vasa Museum’s 17th-century ship and the Icebar made entirely of ice
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, guide available in English, Swedish, and Arabic
• Limitations: Not suitable for children under 18; no reservation for Icebar entry included, which could cause delays
• Payment: Entrance fees are not included in the tour price

Starting at the Vasa Museum in Djurgården

The tour begins at the Vasa Museum, which is situated in the Djurgården park, a former royal hunting ground known for its over 2000 oak trees. The Vasa ship itself is a marvel — built over 2.5 years, it sank just one mile into its maiden voyage in 1628, sinking due to a sudden gale. It was recovered and preserved, making it a standout exhibit in this museum, which is often considered a highlight of Stockholm’s cultural offerings.

Visitors can view the well-preserved ship, learn about its construction, and appreciate its significance in Swedish maritime history. The Vasa Museum is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into 17th-century shipbuilding, with over 2000 oak trees used in its construction.

The Scenic 10-Minute Ferry Ride to Old Town

After exploring the Vasa Museum, the group walks to a nearby ferry, which provides a scenic 10-minute ride across Stockholm’s waterways. The ferry offers vistas of the city’s historic architecture and gives a brief taste of Stockholm’s maritime charm. This short ride leads to Old Town, known locally as Gamla Stan, a charming area full of cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and historic squares.

The ferry ride is an efficient way to connect these key sites and adds a bit of Stockholm’s waterway atmosphere to the experience. It’s a practical part of the tour, linking the museum with the next adventure — the Icebar.

Walking Tour Through Stockholm’s Old Town

From the ferry dock, the tour proceeds on foot through Old Town. Your guide leads you along narrow, winding streets filled with shops, cafes, and historic sites. The walk offers an intimate look at Stockholm’s medieval roots, with the guide sharing stories about the city’s past and its royal heritage.

This part of the tour provides time to admire the architecture and atmosphere of Gamla Stan, which dates back to the 13th century. The walk culminates at Icebar Stockholm by ICEHOTEL, where you’ll spend 30-45 minutes enjoying the icy environment and a complimentary drink.

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The Unique Experience of the Icebar

The Icebar Stockholm is built entirely from frozen water, and its interior design changes each year, making every visit a little different. The temperature is kept at -7°C (19.4°F), so visitors are provided with coats and gloves. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be standing and walking in this chilly environment.

Due to high interest, starting October 2024, the Icebar’s opening hours shift to 3 P.M., from the previous 11 A.M. schedule. Visitors should plan accordingly to ensure they arrive during open hours, especially since reservations are not included in the tour price; entry is paid separately at SEK 265, and the experience includes a drink served in a glass made of ice.

Note that pinching the glasses results in them melting in your pocket, so keep your hands and eyes on them! The Icebar is a striking setting, with a changing interior that emphasizes the artistry of ice sculpting each year.

Practical Details for the Icebar Visit

When visiting the Icebar, guests receive a warm coat and gloves but should wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking. The temperature is cold enough to require protective clothing, but the staff ensures guests are warm and comfortable. The entrance fee roughly costs SEK 265, payable separately from the tour, and includes one drink.

Because entry is not reserved, overcrowding can occur, as highlighted in some reviews. It’s advisable to arrive early or plan your visit during less busy times if possible. Remember, the schedule change starting October 2024 means visiting later in the day might be easier for guaranteed entry.

Tour Logistics: Meeting Point and Payment

The tour begins outside the Vasa Museum with a guide holding a “TourGuide by Kino” sign. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making it easy to plan your day afterward. Payment for museum and ferry fees is handled separately, with options including cash or credit card in Euros, Dollars, or SEK.

The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and offers live guides in English, Swedish, and Arabic. It’s a flexible experience, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the ability to reserve now and pay later.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour covers two major attractions efficiently, there are some limitations. The short time spent at the Vasa Museum (about 45 minutes) may feel rushed to some visitors, especially if they wish to explore more deeply. Plus, the Icebar’s entry is not included and can be crowded without a reservation, which could lead to disappointment if entry is denied during busy times.

This tour is not suitable for children under 18, and audio recording is not permitted inside the Icebar. It’s best suited for adults interested in Swedish history and unique ice environments.

Final Thoughts on the Stockholm City: Visit Icebar and Vasamuseum Tour

This guided tour provides an efficient overview of Stockholm’s cultural highlights, especially for those keen to see the Vasa ship and experience the Icebar’s icy atmosphere. The combination of museum exploration, scenic ferry rides, and walking through Old Town offers a well-rounded taste of the city.

However, travelers should be aware of the timing adjustments from October 2024 and the need for separate reservations for the Icebar to avoid missing out. The tour’s moderate rating reflects some issues with crowding and short museum visits, but it remains a solid choice for those wanting a guided, snapshot experience of Stockholm’s most iconic attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Icebar included in the tour price? No, the entrance fee (approximately SEK 265) is paid separately and includes a drink.
• What is the tour duration? The entire experience lasts about 2 hours.
• Can children join this tour? No, it is not suitable for children under 18.
• Is there wheelchair access? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
• What languages are guides available in? Guides speak English, Swedish, and Arabic.
• What should I wear to the Icebar? Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as coats and gloves are provided but the environment is -7°C.
• Do I need to reserve the Icebar entrance? Not explicitly, but reservations are highly recommended to avoid overcrowding.
• How do I get to the starting point? The tour begins outside the Vasa Museum in Djurgården.
• What are the cancellation policies? You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.
• Is the guide included in the price? Yes, the tour guide is included in the tour fee.