RED Sightseeing Stockholm Hop-on Hop-off bus + Vasa Museum + Vrak - Museum of Wrecks

More impressive than we expected, for a museum about one ship

We honestly went in with modest expectations — it's a museum built around a single 17th-century warship, how much could there really be to it? We were wrong. The Vasa is fully intact and astonishingly well preserved for something that sank in 1628, and seeing it up close, at that scale, inside the museum is genuinely awe-inspiring. It's rare for one object to carry an entire museum, but this one does. We'd recommend going right at opening — it gets busy quickly, especially on a summer weekend, and having a bit of breathing room to take it in makes a real difference.

Exceptionally well done especially if taken it at your own pace - perhaps without the guided tour

This is my third trip visiting the Vasa museum and probably the best primarily because I did not do a guided tour and instead took my time reviewing all the signs and viewing all the exhibits at my own pace. The wealth of information that is available is impressive all the way from preservation techniques to history to intricacies of historical boat building. I would plan for 2 hours and ideally get there as soon as it opens because it gets very crowded very quickly with multiple tour groups coming through. They do sell food in a cafe. However, they also have an area inside in a room for those who bring their own food.

A Must See in Stockholm

What an amazing story and museum. I, like many Americans, had never heard the story of the Vasa until my visit to Stockholm. Visiting this museum was a highlight of our trip. So much to see and imagine here. Words can’t describe the feeling of walking into the museum and seeing the entire ship standing there just as it was when it fell to the bottom of the sea. Additional information about original art, the building of the ship, the time when it as built and some personal stories of those involved round out the museum. Seeing the movie about what happened is a must. In addition to the ship itself, I found the personal stories and the skeletal remains of the sailors, along with the DNA created images of what they would have looked like to be amazing. I would suggest spending an hour and a half to two hours there, depending on how fast you read and your depth of interest in information.

Wonderful historical museum

The Museum is a fascinating historical place. The video that they have does a great job explaining what this is all about. It’s right when you first walk in and they have it in multiple languages. So fascinating to understand something that happened 400 years ago and then the excavation of it. And the fact that they’ve put it back together is incredible. Make sure you go downstairs to the second floor to see the skeletons.

First rate museum. Worth getting there early.

One of the best museums I have been to. I would rate it alongside the titanic museum in Belfast. We visited on a Saturday at 10am and bought tickets on the door - no queue. We the walked straight into an English version of a 20 minute film about the ship, and ten minutes after that was an 45 minute tour of the museum with a guide. No extra cost for these two events. As you go round there is also a 10 minute film on why the ship sank. Set over 7 floors, we spent 2 1/2 hours there.

Must not miss in Stockholm

Wow. This was amazing. The ship reminded me of watching a Pirates of the Caribbean movie, when the pirates and ship came up out of the sea.

my review

I visited the Vasa Museum with my sister and a guide. I was quite struck by the sheer size of the ship, which left a strong impression on me. Later, once I returned to the hotel, I took the time to research and learn more about the history and significance of the Vasa.

Amazing

We really enjoyed our visit to the museum. We did not join a tour but just systematically wandered around the ship and the associated displays. The ship itself is impressive. There is information everywhere about what the various parts of the ship were for, and their significance. The separate displays giving details of how ships were built, what Stockholm looked like, what society was like at that time, were really engaging. I was particularly struck by the stories associated with the skeletal remains that had been found when the ship was recovered. It was beautifully respectful. And the displays on how the ship was actually found and then recovered were really interesting. A good way to spend a few hours just being educated.

One and done

The Vasa museum is exactly what I expected, a humongous, fully intact Viking ship impressively displayed. There are lots of little side areas that explain life in the time and have relics and movies, and if you are a big fan of Vikings (not the ones from Minnesota), then you are going to love this museum. I went to get everyone off my back since I didn’t visit during my first trip to Stockholm. I am not a fan of that era of history, so for me it is one and done. I will say that I did like the island that it was located on, there are tons of things to do there and you can get there cheaply and easily on the ferry.

First rate museum, but be careful of pick pockets

The museum was exceptional, a really well presented display, together with a very informative short film giving background, would highly recommend. We arrived early, when it was less crowded, but numbers really increased towards mid-morning. One negative point, though. As a popular attraction, the area brings in pick pockets. Just after leaving, as we walked back towards the city, we felt some liquid fall onto us, thought at first it might be a passing seagull. In fact, the couple behind must have sprayed something, because they then rushed forwards with tissues, made a big thing of pointing out the marks on our clothes, and used the distraction to try and lift stuff from our pockets. They did not succeed, but it all came as a bit of a warning.

Incredible experience

I was really looking forward to this museum and it still exceeded my expectations. Incredible story and first class setup of the ship, exhibits and amenities, so you can immerse yourself fully into the experience. We bought tickets online which enables easy entry, then watched the movie, and used the included audio guide (take own device and ear phones). Amazing few hours, and we enjoyed our coffees in the cafe at the end.

Afternoon Visit to Vasa Museum

Visit to Vasa Museum came on a weekday enjoyed seeing the historic Vasa boat lots of history -there is a film to watch and other history items to view nice gift shop overall a good visit and recommended while visiting Stockholm

A most impressive museum

Wow is all we could say when we walked into the first room on seeing the mighty Vasa ship, so impressive, dark and moody room as well as the ship. We joined a twenty minute guided tour, included in the entrance fee, learning a little of the history and features of the ship. I don't know what is the best time to visit but we arrived at 1030 and the place was packed, there didn't seem to be locker rooms so backpacks on people's backs can be a great hindrance. We thoroughly enjoyed all the exhibits, the amazing stories of those who drowned on the maiden voyage disaster, profiling them and putting together their story and likeness. In the end the crowds drove us out after only two hours, otherwise a fabulous museum.

Outstanding

What a wonderful museum- we knew the Vasa was going to be huge but WOW its truly something everyone must see. Admission includes a guided tour- be sure to take it to learn the history- outstanding visit

Wonderful museum!

This is a wonderful museum with such an incredible history. The ship is frozen in time. There are multiple floors with exhibits, and you are able to view the ship from many levels. The move is shown in many languages and worth seeing. Staff is quite helpful. While it's on the dark side in the building, photography is possible. They recommend a jacket since the temperature is kept at a constant cool. Allow minimum 3 hours - more to read the displays. Crowds mid-day were on the larger size, but it didn't interfere with our visit. We took the boat from Gamla Stan to the Vasa dock and from there it was an easy walk. We purchased tickets online in advance and were able to use the pre-purchase ticket entrance. Don't miss. It's one of the best.

A must see!

An incredible experience! An amazing museum sharing the history of an amazing ship!

Better than my high expectations

Maybe the coolest museum experience I have ever had. We had high expectations and the Vassa exceeded them Really can’t describe how amazing it is to see this ship and learn all about it.

Vasa Museum, Stockholm / Sweden

Many of the world's famous attractions are worth seeing once. The Vasa Museum is different. It is one of those rare places that exceeds expectations and leaves you wondering how more people don't talk about it as one of Europe's truly great museums. The centerpiece, of course, is the Vasa itself—a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1628 and was recovered more than 330 years later. No photograph, documentary, or guidebook can prepare you for the moment you first see it in person. The sheer scale of the ship is breathtaking. Standing beside it, you quickly realize that this is not simply a museum exhibit; it is an extraordinary piece of history frozen in time. What makes the experience so special is the way the museum tells the ship's story. Beyond the dramatic tale of its construction, sinking, and recovery, visitors gain fascinating insights into Swedish history, naval engineering, craftsmanship, and daily life during the 17th century. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated and engaging, making complex historical topics accessible without ever feeling simplistic. The museum itself deserves considerable credit. Multiple viewing levels allow guests to appreciate the ship from every angle, revealing the incredible details of the carvings, decorations, and construction techniques. Whether you're a history enthusiast, maritime expert, architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, there is something genuinely captivating here. What impressed most was that the Vasa Museum appeals equally to visitors who normally love museums and those who usually avoid them. The story is so remarkable and the artifact so unique that it transcends typical museum experiences. Stockholm offers many outstanding attractions, but if there is one place that absolutely should not be missed, it is the Vasa Museum. It is educational without being dry, impressive without being overwhelming, and unforgettable from the moment you walk through the door.

Stunningly Preserved Ship

Exceptionally preserved ship, Very remarkable to be able to view such a specimen in its entirety over multiple floors. Lots of signage and information available. Very good included tour. Could easily spend half a day exploring every detail.

The best boat museum

Just WOW. This is a stunning museum and a real testament to the conservators who have managed to keep the Vasa in such incredible condition. The ship is stunning as are the exhibits on the various levels which also enable you to get different perspectives of the boat. The stories of those who sailed her ( albeit not very far before it sank) are fascinating as are the painstaking reconstructions of the skeletons that were recovered. One of the most spectacular areas is the reconstruction of part of the lower decks with the canons , this gives you a real insight into the cramped conditions onboard.

Architecture and history

Literally all about one ship - enormous, fascinating and historically rich with lots of education, movies, displays and upclose exhibits but still just about one ship. The museum runs a bit cold, perhaps to help preserve the ship, consider taking a sweater!

Good half day trip from Gaml Stan on the 82 water bus.

Until our visit we thought that the Mary Rose was the pinnacle of recovery - but ‘hands-up’ the Vasa is magnificent. Very much intact and standing as high as a 4 or 5 storey building + the masts? Reconstructed ‘wax-works’ of the crews bodies are eerily lifelike. Guided tours in English included in the ticket price and a decent bistro.

One Ship. One Museum. Absolutely Spectacular.

The Vasa Museum is one of the most remarkable and unique museums I have ever visited. Period. At its core, the museum revolves around a single exhibit: one ship. In fact, the entire building was designed around it. That may sound limiting—or even boring—to some visitors, but the reality could not be more exciting. The Vasa is the world's only almost fully preserved 17th-century warship, and it is breathtaking. Standing before it, you quickly realize that this is far more than the story of a single vessel. It is a window into an entire era. Nowhere else have I gained such a vivid understanding of life aboard a warship of this period. Through the ship itself and the museum's outstanding exhibitions, visitors learn not only about the Vasa's tragic fate but also about naval warfare, shipbuilding, trade, exploration, and daily life at sea during the age of great maritime powers. The ship serves as a representative of an entire world long gone—from admirals and naval commanders to craftsmen and ordinary sailors. It tells the story of how navies operated, how ships were built and maintained, and what life was like for the men who served aboard them. The museum is both educational and deeply immersive. Its architectural presentation is stunning, and the way the Vasa is staged and illuminated creates a sense of awe that few museums can match. An eye-opening experience and, without question, one of the highlights of Stockholm. An absolute must-visit for anyone spending time in the city.

Amazing museum

What an amazing musuem, so much to see & do & it really take you back in time. A must when visiting Stockholm.

Fascinating history!

A very well done exploration of the Vasa warship. Great learning the history and being able to see all around the ship itself.

Awesome Historical Experience!

Highly recommend this museum! Phenomenal history and sights to see about the Vasa! You can easily spend 2 hours absorbing the wealth of information this museum provides you.

Well worth a visit

So glad we visited and probably our favourite visit. Lots of information, lots to see, a great exhibit

Probably the best museum one of its kind.

Last time stayed at Stockholm for two nights but missed Vasa museum. Also this time has ample time so decided to visit Vasa museum . My group tour operator offered package with 75 euro which I found costly. So explored on my own various package available and booked online more or less at same cost plus had to pay for yo and fro to my hotel and museum. Taxies are quite costly in Stockholm and if you can wait you can get bolt and uber at half the rate same or similar taxies. It opens at 10 and we were there by 9.45 so it was yet not opened. Since not many guest at that time had to find way from taxi drop. Soon the guide came a nice energetic rainbow guide so other group members so started. It starts from first floor to top 2nd 3rd floor and finishes at bottom. The guide explains everything and you listen and see mesmerized.How a boat best of its time collosal sank in first voyage and remained there for almost 300 years and then reached repaired and maintained.What a knowledge of that time, engineering and chemistry all wedded into one. Spent a nice 2.5 hrs. bur was tired also for walking and walking.

Must See in Stockholm

What a story! What an exhibit! I knew nothing about the story before arriving in Stockholm but for what I heard from other visitors, we knew we had to go. The story of the ship and what transpired in the 1600s was compelling. The displays are fascinating. In my opinion, this is a must see in Stockholm. Highly recommended

Just Fantastic

I would rate this museum among the best I have ever visited. Having arrived at 10am and knowing a guided tour was at 10.30, I started with the James Cameron Exhibition. There was a phenomenal amount of highly interesting information about this man's life, presented in an easy to follow format. In addition, there was a number of items from his film 'Titanic' on display. I would highly recommend going on the English tour. It lasts 30 minutes and the guide provides a wealth of fantastic information that directs you to look much more closely at the ship and appreciate exactly what you are observing. The museum continues to impress with its exhibits but the sight of the Vasa is quite breath taking.

Excellent

OK so this is a one exhibit museum, the ship Vasa. However, with the raised wreak as the centre piece the whole story is told in much detail. Good introduction film and informative panels make for a rewarding visit.

Fascinating story

We really enjoyed this experience. The film and the guide together gave a lots of different perspectives to consider. Ferry from Slussen was quick and easy.

Cool ship, delicious food.

Absolutely insane experience. Seeing such an amazing site of a ship pulled from the sea. I was there for a little under 2 hours as there are a few floors with a lot of information about life on the ship as well as things they found in the ship and of course backstory about commissioning the building of the ship. I went ahead and purchased the combo ticket for the vasa museum and the VRAK museum for 359SEK which is around $38 and I’d say it’s worth it rather than getting one ticket for $25 The restaurant there is top tier. I ate some delicious meatballs and the most amazing cardamom bun.

Wonderful but overcrowded

Despite pre-booking our tickets and arriving as the doors opened, we were overwhelmed by the crowds at this unique museum. After the first hour or so, we were basically being carried along by the flow of people, when one of the private tour guides scolded us shouting "This is a private tour! You cannot listen! Wait for the public tour!" Uh, lady, I can barely move. I'm not intentionally listening to your tour. Such bad vibes. Otherwise, a special and well-planned museum. I particularly liked the tribute to the 30 people who drowned when the Vasa sank. It's on the very lowest level of the museum, where luckily are fewer people, and curators have (rather speculatively) recreated the lives and even the faces of the victims. Cool place, but they need timed entry and fewer visitors.

A Sweden spectacle

At first I was unsure if it was 'my kinda thing' but am so pleased I went in. Entry fee is reasonable and the ship is spectacular. The museum is roomy and the English narrated film is worth watching too.

Tough boat 😅

The whole story is a bit hilarious 😇 They built this massive, fancy warship, and it sank after like… 100 meters. Still, Vasa Museum is absolutely worth visiting. The ship is huge and full of beautiful details. And obviously has superpowers: after spending more than 300 years under water it came out surprisingly well preserved. Once you’re done, just keep walking through beautiful Djurgården.

The one museum in Stockholm that is not to be missed

If you are to go to only one museum in Stockholm, it has to be Vasa. Yes, it's a museum, dedicated to one ship, but it was worth it, and more! Vasa Museum is a large, spacious hangar-like building with small coves and open side-rooms, dedicated to various aspects of the history of Vasa. The expositions come alive and take you on a journey, starting with the building of the ship, its first and only voyage on August 10, 1628, possible reasons for the disastrous sinking, efforts to find it and then recover it from the bottom of the Baltic Sea. You go through the various exhibits but can't stop looking at the giant beautiful wooden ship, standing tall in the middle of the museum. You go up and down the stairs or ramps (there is also an elevator for those with mobility issues), and keep on looking with awe at the ship's woodcarvings, masts, all the small details that slowly reveal themselves. And keep on asking yourself how something this big and perfect sank, and then in 1961 was recovered from the bottom of the sea 95-98% intact. We were there a few minutes before the museum opened and there was already a crowd gathered outside. But thanks to the efficient organization of the museum's fantastic staff, the lines moved quickly, and we were able to purchase tickets and go in in less than 10 minutes after the museum opened. Because of the size of the building, you don't feel the crowd size, as there is so much to see and so many various areas to wonder around. And if you get hungry or tired, the museum's coffee shop/restaurant is right there. We had drinks and carrot cake which was incredible. And we didn't pay much. You can spend between 1-2 hours at the museum, without feeling rushed. On our way out we checked the museum shop, which had anything and everything related to the ship and Swedish history and culture. Not very cheap, but of really good quality, so don't miss it. The museum shop staff was also very friendly, kind and helpful, just like the rest of the museum staff. Whether you are someone interested in maritime or Swedish history, or simply curious what the whole Vasa fuss is about, I cannot recommend this museum enough.

Amazing

just an amazing place to visit. lots to see but its mainly about the ship which is extraordinary. good value for money tickets great for kids as well the story of the ship Vasa is very interesting in itself I would say its a must do in Stockholm and highly recommend

Awesome!

An incredible museum that illuminates what it was like to live on a battle ship in the 1600s. The details and information was exceptional. It far surpassed our expectations. The size of the ship and the craftsmanship is astounding. Don’t miss this!

Mindblowing Experience

Mindblowing Experience, I was expecting something big, but it surprised me wordless.

Nice but overpriced

It's really nice. We learned a lot and had fun. However, we went for free on Kulturnatt. I don't think this experience would've been worth 195kr a person. Otherwise, 5/5.

Highly recommended

This place blew me away. I didn’t look at the website and didn’t know what to expect. The visit was random and unplanned. But….this made my trip to the city absolutely worth it. Not only do you get to see the complete ship on full display, you also get to experience what it would have felt like to be onboard through recreated areas you can walk into (not on the actual ship). You get to see many of the items recovered and there is a TON of explanations so you can learn and understand everything you need to about the ship and its their stuff. They have really put a ton of effort into this place and I’d highly recommend it!!

Well worth a visit

An amazing experience, it is unbelievable how whole the ship is after being under water all those years, well worth a visit

History and the Sea

What a well preserved piece of history! They did an amazing job laying out this exhibit. I am so glad we came. You could easily get lost in history for hours.

Fab museum 😊

Great place to visit. Often has long queues but they move quickly.

Educational couple of hours

Great way to spend a couple of hours and learn about this ship and why it sunk so quickly. Very impressive and love the conservation effort being undertaken by the museum to preserve the Vasa. Avoid the coffee in the restaurant - overpriced and horrible,

Vasa museum

Really enjoyed this museum. Information boards are excellent pitched at the right level. Ship and story behind it are amazing. Would recommend

Unique Experience in Stockholm

We learned a lot at the museum not only about the ship but of the local culture. There is so much to the story of how they found the ship to how they saved it. The tour was well worth our time there.

Our guide Viola was so charming!

A great tour filled with stories and history. Very enjoyable.

Incredible History

My wife and I went to Vasa Museum and photos do not do it justice. The building and the boat are gigantic so there is plenty of room to see things even with a good amount of crowds. There is so much interesting information about Vasa in both English and Swedish all around the museum that is well organized and easily digestible. They have a film on a regular basis that rotates through several different languages in addition to English and Swedish which was a nice surprise. They also offer free group tours in English about once every half hour and the friendly staff is great about giving you the heads up about it starting. The museum is 3 levels and the tour goes through all floors and lasts about 25 minutes which is the perfect amount of time. The gift shop is nice and has a lot of interesting goodies, books, and trinkets. They have a cafe but the menu wasn’t exactly what we were looking for so we had lunch elsewhere. A truly incredible museum that you really cannot miss.

Excelente opcion para recorrer el casco antiguo de Estocolmo.