Stockholm City: Visit Icebar and Vasamuseum

Stockholm City: Visit Icebar and Vasamuseum — A Balanced Look at Two Unique Attractions

Exploring Stockholm often means mixing history with fun, and this tour offers just that. It combines the awe-inspiring Vasa Museum, home to the only well-preserved 17th-century ship, with a visit to the iconic Icebar, made entirely of ice and illuminated in vibrant colors. Whether you’re into maritime history or craving a frosty cocktail experience, this tour promises a layered glimpse into Stockholm’s diverse attractions.

One thing we love about this experience is how it manages to blend a deep dive into Swedish history with a memorable, chilly adventure at the Icebar. Plus, the walk through Old Town offers a charming peek at Stockholm’s cobblestone streets and historic ambiance.

A potential drawback? The time allocated for each stop—about 45 minutes at the Vasa Museum and 30-45 minutes at the Icebar—might feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to absorb every detail. Still, it’s a good way to pack two highlights into a manageable tour, especially if your schedule is tight.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, history, and fun. It’s particularly great for those who want a quick but meaningful taste of Stockholm’s top sights, with the added thrill of a chilly cocktail break.

Key Points

• Historical Significance: The Vasa Museum houses the only well-preserved 17th-century ship, offering a peek into maritime past.
• Unique Experience: The Icebar, entirely made of ice, creates an unforgettable chilly ambiance, perfect for fun photos and a drink in a frosty setting.
• Guided Insight: The tour guide not only explains the attractions but also offers engaging commentary, especially in Old Town.
• Convenient Logistics: The itinerary involves a quick walk, ferry ride, and accessible locations, making it manageable within 2 hours.
• Cost Considerations: Entrance fees are additional, and reviews suggest the value depends on your interest in the attractions and willingness to pay for separate entries.
• Timing Changes: Starting from October 2024, the Icebar opens at 3 PM, which shifts the schedule but adds to the afternoon vibe.

Exploring the Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum is undoubtedly the star of this tour. It houses the world’s only preserved 17th-century ship, which sank after sailing just a mile from the harbor during a sudden gale. The ship took 2.5 years to build and sank on its maiden voyage, making it a fascinating reminder of Sweden’s naval ambitions.

What makes the Vasa Museum so compelling isn’t just the ship itself but the story of its sinking and subsequent preservation. We loved the way the museum’s layout immerses visitors in the ship’s history, with detailed exhibits and atmospheric lighting. You’ll learn about the ship’s construction, the dramatic sinking, and its recovery. The reviews highlight that the museum is very interesting, offering rich details for history buffs and casual visitors alike.

However, the time at the museum is somewhat limited—about 45 minutes—and some travelers felt this was too short to appreciate everything fully. If you’re a history enthusiast, you might wish for more time, but the guided nature of the tour helps maximize your visit.

Cost-wise, entrance fees range from 190 SEK to 240 SEK, which some reviewers find reasonable given the museum’s uniqueness. If you’re eager for an in-depth look, paying for the entry adds significant value.

The Walk to Old Town and the Ferry Ride

After the museum, the tour proceeds with a short five-minute walk to a nearby ferry, which then takes about ten minutes across the water. This ferry ride provides a relaxing break and a chance to enjoy views of Stockholm’s scenic waterways. You’ll then stroll through Stockholm’s Old Town—one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

Your guide will share stories about the cobblestone streets, historic sites, and notable buildings during this walk. The charm of Old Town lies in its narrow alleys, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere, making it a favorite stop for many travelers.

The Icebar Experience

The highlight for many is the Icebar, famously made out of ice from Norrland’s first Ice Hotel. As of October 2024, the Icebar opens at 3 PM, so this tour’s schedule shifts accordingly. You’ll spend roughly 30-45 minutes inside, where everything from the furniture to the glasses is carved from ice. The temperature hovers around -7°C (19.4°F), so warm clothing is essential—though the Icebar provides a coat and gloves.

We loved the vibrant lighting and the way the bar transforms each year, making each visit a slightly different experience. It’s a fun, memorable place to enjoy a drink—perhaps a signature cocktail served in a glass made of ice. Just be aware that if you pinch or try to steal a glass, it will turn into water in your pocket, as one reviewer humorously warned.

The ticket cost SEK 265 includes a drink, which many feel is fair considering the uniqueness of the environment. Some visitors, however, noted that due to popularity, advance reservations are advisable—overcrowding can be an issue, as one reviewer experienced when they arrived without a reservation and were turned away.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point: Outside the Wasa Museum, where the tour guide will hold a sign.
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, including all stops and walking.
• Pricing: Entrance fees are separate—Vasa Museum (190–240 SEK), ferry (~60 SEK), Icebar (265 SEK, includes drink).
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but note that baby strollers and baby carriages are not allowed.
• Language: Guided commentary is available in English, Swedish, and Arabic.
• Payment: You can pay in advance with a voucher or cash (EUR, USD, SEK).

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer expressed disappointment about the Icebar experience, citing overcrowding and a lack of reservations, which prevented entry for their group. The lesson here is to book ahead if you want guaranteed entry, especially during busy times.

Another pointed out that the cost of the tour is high, partly because you’re paying for separate entry fees. They felt that with only about 45 minutes at the Vasa Museum, the value might be limited if you’re a history buff seeking more immersion.

However, many appreciated the diverse nature of the tour, combining culture, history, and fun in a manageable two-hour package. The guide’s commentary was seen as engaging and informative, helping to maximize the short visits.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a quick yet enriching glimpse of Stockholm’s highlights. It suits those interested in maritime history and fans of quirky, memorable attractions like the Icebar.

It’s perfect for visitors with limited time but who want a taste of both culture and playful adventure. The tour also caters well to those who enjoy guided experiences, as the guide offers valuable insights along the way.

However, if you’re particularly interested in spending more time at the Vasa Museum or want guaranteed access to the Icebar, you may want to plan some parts independently or consider booking reservations separately.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced peek at what makes Stockholm special—its history and its fun side—without requiring a full day of sightseeing. You’ll walk away with a solid understanding of the Vasa’s significance, along with a cool, icy memory from the Icebar.

The value depends on your interests and the importance of fitting these sights into your schedule. For history buffs, the Vasa Museum is a must-see, and the Icebar provides a fun, photogenic, and unusual experience, especially in the winter months. The walk through Old Town adds a charming touch, rounding out the adventure.

While some reviews highlight logistical issues like overcrowding and short visit times, overall, this tour delivers a practical, engaging way to sample Stockholm’s top attractions in a compact timeframe. Just remember to book your Icebar reservation early to avoid disappointment, and dress warmly for the icy environment.

In short, this experience is a good choice for curious, fun-loving travelers eager to combine learning with a bit of Swedish whimsy. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting a quick taste of Stockholm’s maritime and icy marvels.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children under 18?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years old, especially considering the Icebar’s temperature and alcohol consumption restrictions.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including the guided visit to the Vasa Museum, the ferry ride, walk through Old Town, and time inside the Icebar.

Do I need to reserve the Icebar separately?
Since the schedule is now starting at 3 PM from October 2024, it’s advisable to book your Icebar reservation in advance to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes the guided visit to the Vasa Museum, the ferry ride, the walk through Old Town, and a ticket to the Icebar with a drink. Entrance fees to the museums are paid separately.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I pay in my local currency?
Yes, you can pay in Euros, Dollars, or Swedish Krona, either in advance via voucher or cash at the site.

What should I wear for the Icebar?
Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking. The Icebar provides a coat and gloves, but layers are recommended.

How much time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about 45 minutes at the Vasa Museum and roughly 30-45 minutes inside the Icebar, which some travelers find a quick but enjoyable taste of each attraction.

To sum it up, this combined tour offers a fun, efficient way to see two of Stockholm’s most distinctive sights—if you’re prepared for the short visits and want a mix of history and icy fun. It’s especially valuable for first-timers eager to tick off major highlights without overextending their schedule. Just remember to plan ahead for reservations at the Icebar to make the most of this chilly adventure.