Royal Vikings of Stockholm: Outdoor Escape Puzzle Adventure

Discover Stockholm’s Hidden Viking and Royal Secrets with an Outdoor Puzzle Adventure

The Royal Vikings of Stockholm offers a unique way to explore the Swedish capital through a self-guided outdoor escape game. Priced at $8.97 per person, this experience lasts approximately 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes, making it ideal for those seeking a fun, interactive activity that combines sightseeing with puzzle-solving. The tour departs from The Viking Museum and winds through some of Stockholm’s most notable landmarks, finishing at Kastellholmens utsiktsplats.

What sets this tour apart is its combination of history, landmarks, and an engaging story crafted by top writers. It’s designed for small groups or individual explorers with a phone and a downloaded app. Although the experience is outdoor-only, it offers a cost-effective way to learn about Viking and royal history while enjoying Stockholm’s scenic views.

A noteworthy consideration is that the tour does not include inside museum visits, which can be confusing for some, as seen in a review where a visitor found the Viking Museum unaware of the tour. Still, the outdoor nature of the game makes it accessible and flexible, especially for those who prefer walking and exploring at their own pace. It’s particularly well-suited for visitors who enjoy puzzles, outdoor sightseeing, and storytelling in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $8.97 per person, accessible for most travelers
• Self-guided outdoor experience with a mobile app to download and follow
• Duration of about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes
• Visit iconic landmarks such as the Viking Museum, Vasa Museum, and Skeppsholmen viewpoints
• No inside museum admission required, focus on outdoor exploration
• Group discounts available and private activity for your group only

Starting Point at the Viking Museum in Djurgårdsstrand

The tour begins at The Viking Museum located at Djurgårdsstrand 15 in Stockholm. The Viking Museum is dedicated to the Viking Age and features artifacts and exhibits that provide context for the story you’ll follow during your puzzle adventure. It’s important to note that admission to the Viking Museum itself is free, but the tour does not include access to inside exhibits.

Participants receive instructions via email after booking, guiding them to download an app and start their quest outdoors. The starting point offers a convenient access point near public transportation, making it easy to reach from central Stockholm.

Exploring Stockholm’s Maritime and Artistic Landmarks

Following the departure from the Viking Museum, the game guides you through the Vasa Museum, where the restored Vasa ship captures attention with its size and historical significance. This stop lasts about 12 minutes and is free to visit, providing a striking maritime backdrop to the adventure.

Next, the route takes you over Djurgårdsbron, a historic bridge connecting the city center with Djurgården island. This spot offers a great opportunity for photos and a chance to appreciate Stockholm’s architecture. The bridge remains a significant landmark, connecting several stops in the game.

Artistic Installations and Public Squares

The adventure continues along Strandvägen to see “Obelisk Air Water,” an art installation by Per Kirkeby. Made of bronze and granite, this sculpture adds a cultural touch to the journey, with the stop lasting around 12 minutes.

From there, you visit Blasieholmstorg, a lively square surrounded by impressive buildings, restaurants, and shops. This area provides a vibrant atmosphere for a quick break or photo opportunity. The guide encourages travelers to spend as much time as they like here before moving on.

Scenic Views from Skeppsholmen

The route includes crossing Skeppsholmsbron, a picturesque bridge that leads to Skeppsholmen, an island known for its cultural venues and scenic vistas. The Skeppsholmen Viewpoint offers panoramic views of Stockholm and the surrounding waters of Saltsjön—a highlight for lovers of scenic cityscapes.

Skeppsholmen itself provides a relaxed environment filled with interesting sights, with stops lasting about 12 minutes at each location. The island’s combination of history and scenery makes it a favorite photo stop during the game.

Final Stop at Kastellholmen’s Viewpoint

The last destination in the outdoor puzzle journey is Kastellholmens utsiktsplats, a scenic viewpoint offering stunning views of Stockholm’s harbor. After spending time here, the game concludes, giving participants a satisfying sense of completion while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Logistical Details and Practical Tips

The beginning of the tour takes place at The Viking Museum, and the end point is at Kastellholmens utsiktsplats. The entire experience is designed for small groups or individual explorers, with the option for group discounts.

Participants need to bring a charged phone, download the app, and create an account using the same email used for booking. The tour runs daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, making it flexible to fit into various schedules.

Since the experience is outdoor-only, it’s recommended to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. The tour is accessible to most travelers and includes service animals.

The Experience and Pacing

The game’s pacing is steady, with most stops lasting about 12 minutes, allowing enough time for photos, brief sightseeing, and puzzle-solving. The experience encourages a relaxed exploration style, making it suitable for a casual stroll through Stockholm’s historic and scenic sites.

While the storytelling is crafted by talented writers, the overall experience is more about outdoor fun and discovery than deep historical immersion. The self-guided format means you control the pace, which can be helpful for families or groups wanting to customize their adventure.

Price and Value for Money

At just under $9 per person, this tour offers great value for those keen on a low-cost, engaging outdoor activity. It’s a budget-friendly way to see multiple landmarks without the expense of entrance fees or guided tours. The group discounts further enhance its appeal for families or friends traveling together.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

A key limitation is that the Viking Museum itself is not part of the tour’s access, which might cause confusion for some. A review highlighted that the museum staff were unaware of the tour, so it’s essential to clarify that the experience is entirely outside.

Plus, as this is a self-guided outdoor activity, it might not appeal to visitors looking for a fully guided experience or interior museum tours. Weather can also impact the enjoyment, so planning for rain or cold is advisable.

Who Should Try This Tour?

This outdoor escape adventure is ideal for families, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy puzzles, city sightseeing, and scenic walks. It’s perfect for those who want an affordable, relaxed way to explore Stockholm’s landmarks while engaging with a fun story.

However, anyone expecting detailed inside museum visits or guided commentary might find this experience limited and should plan accordingly.

The Sum Up: A Fun and Cost-Effective Stockholm Exploration

The Royal Vikings outdoor escape game offers a unique, wallet-friendly way to discover Stockholm’s famous sites through a story-driven puzzle adventure. Its outdoor focus and flexible pacing make it suitable for a wide range of travelers, especially those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and interactive challenges.

While it may lack access to interior exhibits like the Viking Museum or Vasa Museum, it compensates with scenic stops and a well-crafted narrative. The experience’s affordability and ease of access make it a recommendable option for those seeking a light-hearted and engaging way to explore Stockholm on foot.

Those comfortable with self-guided activities and casual walking will find this tour a fun addition to their itinerary, offering a different perspective on the city’s Viking and royal history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, since it involves walking and puzzle-solving outdoors, it can be enjoyable for children, especially if they like stories and scenic walks.

Do I need to purchase tickets for the museums in advance?
No, the tour does not include museum entrance fees, and the Viking Museum is free to visit. The game is played outside and does not require entering any buildings.

How long does the entire experience take?
The outdoor puzzle adventure lasts about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes, depending on the pace and stops.

Can I do this tour alone or only in groups?
It is designed for individuals or small groups. The app allows sharing, but it’s recommended that each person has a ticket for an optimal experience.

What should I bring?
A charged phone is essential for navigating the game. It’s also wise to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.

Are there any age restrictions?
The data indicates most travelers can participate, suggesting it’s suitable for a wide age range, as long as they can walk and follow instructions.