Stockholm: Guided Natural Ice Skating Tour with Lunch & Fika

Experience Stockholm’s Winter Charm with a Guided Natural Ice Skating Tour, Complete with Lunch and Fika

If you’re looking for a winter activity that combines outdoor adventure, local culture, and beautiful scenery, this guided ice skating tour in Stockholm might be just what you need. While we haven’t skated on this exact tour ourselves, the reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s an accessible and rewarding experience, perfect for those wanting to learn a new skill while soaking up the Swedish winter landscape.

What we love about this tour is how it’s designed to be beginner-friendly—everything from safety instructions to small group sizes. Plus, the inclusion of a warm lunch and fika offers a cozy way to rest and connect, making it more than just a skate on the ice.

One thing to consider is the weather—ice conditions depend on the day, and if it’s too warm or unsafe, the activity might switch to a winter hike or alternative. This flexibility is good for safety but could be a disappointment if you’re set on skating.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy picturesque landscapes, cultural experiences, and trying something uniquely Swedish. It’s especially suitable for those who don’t mind a bit of activity and are comfortable in a small group setting.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: The tour offers comprehensive safety instructions and coaching, making it accessible even for first-timers.
• Beautiful scenery: Skating on natural frozen lakes surrounded by stunning winter landscapes enhances the experience.
• Full-day adventure: Including scenic drives, stops, and a warm meal, the 7-hour itinerary is rich and well-paced.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly instructors ensure safety and provide insights into local culture.
• Inclusive equipment: Quality skate gear, safety pads, and dry bags are provided—just bring your winter layers.
• Flexible plans: Weather-dependent ice conditions mean the activity might switch to an alternative, but safety remains a priority.

In-Depth Review of the Stockholm Ice Skating Tour

Introduction to the Experience

This guided ice skating tour in Stockholm offers a captivating way to enjoy the city’s winter beauty. It’s perfect for those curious about trying ice skating in a natural setting, but who aren’t confident skaters yet. What makes this experience stand out is how it’s structured to build your confidence off the bat—your guide, Jonas, for example, gets glowing reviews for his professionalism and reassurance. The tour balances instruction, scenic exploration, and cultural insight, all packed into a full 7-hour day.

At around $190 per person, the price might seem on the higher side, but considering it covers transportation, equipment, a hearty lunch, fika, and expert guidance, it’s a solid value for a comprehensive winter day out. You’ll likely come away with new skills, memories of stunning views, and a deeper appreciation for Swedish outdoor culture.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting point at The Green Trails serves as a convenient and scenic departure spot, located within walking distance from major metro stations (Skanstull and Mariatorget). From here, your adventure begins with a safety briefing—crucial for first-timers. This isn’t just a quick rundown; it’s a thorough introduction to skating techniques, safety equipment, and ice safety rules, which helps reduce nerves and boosts confidence.

The first scenic drive takes you through Stockholm County, giving you a glimpse of the winter landscape and setting the tone for the day. The small group size (max 8 guests) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, which is vital when learning a new activity.

The Secret Stops and Guided Tours

The tour includes “secret stops”—these are often picturesque points on the frozen lake or along scenic routes that aren’t crowded or commercialized. These pauses allow for photos, a breather, and a chance to take in the stunning winter scenery without feeling rushed. The guide’s insights about the local area add cultural richness, making the experience more than just skating.

The Lunch and Fika

Midway through the day, the group gathers around an outdoor campfire to enjoy a warm, homemade lunch—think hearty soup, crackers, cheese, and biscuits. The atmosphere of sharing a meal outside, surrounded by snow and ice, is authentically Swedish and creates a sense of camaraderie. Following this, a traditional fika (Swedish coffee break with pastry) adds a sweet, cozy element, perfect for re-energizing before heading back on the ice.

Final Skating and Return

By the end of the day, most participants are confidently gliding on the ice, often surprised at how quickly their skills improved. Multiple reviews mention that the guides are fantastic at reassuring nervous skaters and making sure everyone feels safe. The scenic drives back to the meeting point wrap up the day, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and a camera roll full of beautiful winter views.

What You Can Expect from the Equipment and Safety

All necessary gear—skates, boots, helmets, knee, and elbow pads—are provided and are noted to be high quality. The inclusion of a dry bag for personal belongings is thoughtful, as it allows you to carry extra gloves, a camera, or snacks comfortably.

Safety is clearly prioritized. The guides will give thorough instructions and demonstrate equipment use. One reviewer specifically appreciated the detailed safety briefing and the way the guide, Jonas, personally reassured her during the ice skating. This support is especially valuable for beginners, making the activity accessible and less intimidating.

Weather and Ice Conditions

A key point is that ice conditions depend on the weather, and the tour provider emphasizes that if conditions aren’t safe, they’ll organize an alternative activity, usually a winter hike. While most days have been suitable for skating—”we haven’t had a single excursion on which we weren’t able to skate”—it’s important to be flexible and prepared for a different experience if needed.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress in breathable, layered winter clothing (avoid cotton). Wool and polyester work best.
• Bring warm accessories: gloves, hat, scarf, sunglasses, and outdoor footwear.
• Don’t forget your own personal safety gear if you feel more comfortable, though basic equipment is provided.
• Remember, this activity isn’t suitable for children under 12, so it’s best for older kids and adults.

Who This Tour Is Best Suited For

This experience appeals most to adventure-loving beginners or those with some skating experience who want to gain confidence in a safe setting. It’s also great for small groups seeking a more intimate and personalized outdoor activity.

If you love scenic drives, cultural insights, and trying new things outdoors, you’ll find this tour fulfilling. It’s ideal for travelers who value authentic experiences and are comfortable being active in winter weather.

The Sum Up

This guided natural ice skating tour in Stockholm offers more than just a fun outdoor activity—it’s a chance to connect with Swedish winter culture amid breathtaking scenery. The carefully structured day, with professional guides, quality equipment, and warm meals, ensures you’ll feel supported and engaged throughout.

While weather can always be unpredictable, the tour’s flexibility and emphasis on safety make it a reliable choice. The small group size fosters a friendly environment, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups of friends.

For those who enjoy scenic nature, learning new skills, and embracing the cold with good company, this tour offers a memorable winter experience. It’s especially perfect if you’re seeking a genuine, active way to explore Stockholm’s snowy outdoors.

If you’re ready to glide across frozen lakes and discover Stockholm’s winter charm, this tour might just become a highlight of your trip.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, with safety instructions and coaching provided by experienced guides.

How long does the skating part last?
The entire tour lasts about 7 hours, with several stops and breaks. The actual skating time varies depending on ice conditions and group confidence.

What should I wear?
Layered outdoor winter clothing is recommended, including thermal layers, a windbreaker, hat, gloves, scarf, and sunglasses.

What equipment is provided?
You will receive quality skates, boots, helmets, knee and elbow pads, poles, ice picks, and a dry bag for your belongings.

What happens if the ice isn’t safe?
The operator will organize an alternative activity, likely a winter hike, ensuring you still enjoy your day in Stockholm.

Can children participate?
No, this activity is not suitable for children under 12 years old.

How do I meet the guide?
The meeting point, The Green Trails, is a 10-minute walk from Skanstull and Mariatorget metro stations, and 8 minutes from Stockholm Södra station.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation by minibus is included from the meeting point to the lakes and back.

What’s the price?
The tour costs approximately $190 per person, which covers all equipment, transportation, lunch, fika, and guide services.

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

This ice skating tour in Stockholm promises a full day of outdoor fun, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic way to experience the Swedish winter while learning a new skill in a safe, supportive environment.