Experience Birka Viking City and Museum Boat Tour from Stockholm
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7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Experience the Viking Age with a memorable boat trip to Birka, Sweden’s first known town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your ticket includes a round‑trip cruise to Björkö, entry to the Birka Museum, and a guided tour through the archaeological fields where Vikings once lived, traded and travelled.
Founded in the 750s on Lake Mälaren, Birka is one of Sweden’s most important historical sites, offering well‑preserved traces of life from over a thousand years ago. Daily guided tours in Swedish and English bring the Viking era to life with stories about trade routes, craftsmanship and everyday life.
The journey begins aboard M/S Mälar Victoria from Stockholm, with beautiful views and a café serving snacks, drinks and classic Swedish fika. On the island, Restaurant Särimner offers meals inspired by Viking heritage.
A visit to Birka combines history, nature and culture, making it one of the most fascinating day trips from Stockholm.
Available options
Birka Viking City
Duration: 8 hours: Duration is 7 h 45 min. Departure from Stockholm (Klara mälarstrand)
What's included
reconstructed Viking Quarters and museum
Live guide in Swedish and English
Boat tour
guided tour of the ancient monument area
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Take a daytrip by boat to Birka, the Viking city (first city of Sweden). You will spend around 3h 15 min to 3h 30 min (depending on what day you book) on the island, where you can visit the museum and also join a guided tour of the ancient fields and stroll around the reconstructed Viking Quarter. The tour is live guided both on the boat and on-site in Swedish and English.
The total duration is beween 7h 15 min to 7h 30 min (depending on what day you book).
What's not included
Hotel pick-up/drop-off (not available)
Available languages
Guide guide
SV
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
3.2
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
This tour departs with M/S Mälar Victoria from Klara Mälarstrand, not far from Stockholm City Hall. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to make sure you find good seats.
Important notes
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to make sure you find good seats.
Departure from Klara Mälarstrand 2, 111 20 Stockholm (close to City Hall)
About Stockholm
Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is an archipelago city of 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. Known for its stunning waterfront, rich Viking history, and vibrant cultural scene, Stockholm offers a unique blend of modern urban life and historic charm. The city is also renowned for its innovative design, eco-friendly initiatives, and high quality of life.
Top Attractions
Gamla Stan
The Old Town of Stockholm is a charming labyrinth of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and historic sites. It's the heart of Stockholm and a must-visit for history and architecture lovers.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Vasa Museum
The Vasa Museum houses the only preserved 17th-century ship in the world, the Vasa, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. It's a fascinating look at maritime history and shipbuilding.
Museum
1-2 hours
170 SEK
Skansen
Skansen is the world's oldest open-air museum, showcasing Swedish history and culture through historic buildings, animals, and traditional crafts. It's a great place for families and history enthusiasts.
Cultural
Half day
170 SEK
ABBA The Museum
A fun and interactive museum dedicated to the famous Swedish pop group ABBA. It's a must-visit for fans of the band and those interested in music history.
Museum
1-2 hours
250 SEK
Drottningholm Palace
The private residence of the Swedish royal family, Drottningholm Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The palace and its gardens offer a glimpse into royal life and Swedish history.
Historical
Half day
150-200 SEK
Must-Try Local Dishes
Swedish Meatballs
A classic Swedish dish made with ground meat (usually beef and pork), served with gravy, lingonberry jam, and mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes.
Dinner
Can be made with gluten-free breadcrumbs and vegetarian versions are available.
Surströmming
Fermented Baltic herring, known for its strong smell. It's typically served with potatoes, sour cream, and onions.
Snack
Not suitable for those sensitive to strong smells.
Gravlax
Cured salmon, traditionally served with mustard sauce, dill, and bread.
Appetizer
Gluten-free and often available in vegetarian versions.
Kanelbullar
Cinnamon buns, a Swedish favorite, often enjoyed with coffee during fika (a traditional coffee break).
Dessert
Can be made gluten-free and vegan.
Popular Activities
Kayaking in the archipelago
Hiking in the national parks
Biking around the city
Fika (coffee break) at a local café
Boat tours in the archipelago
Spa treatments
Visiting museums and historic sites
Attending cultural events and festivals
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and numerous outdoor festivals. It's the best time for exploring the archipelago and enjoying outdoor activities.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swedish
- Widely spoken: English, Finnish, Arabic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Swedish Krona (SEK)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Stockholm is generally safe with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid poorly lit areas at night
Getting there
By air
- Stockholm Arlanda Airport • 42 km from city center
- Stockholm Bromma Airport • 8 km from city center
By train
Stockholm Central Station
By bus
Stockholm City Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Stockholm Metro (Tunnelbana) is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It's the fastest way to get around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Cabonline
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gamla Stan
Södermalm
Östermalm
Vasastan
Kungsholmen
Day trips
Uppsala
70 km north of Stockholm • Half day to full day
Uppsala is a historic university city known for its cathedral, the oldest university in Scandinavia, and Viking history.
Mariefred and Gripsholm Castle
60 km west of Stockholm • Full day
Mariefred is a charming town on Lake Mälaren, home to the beautiful Gripsholm Castle and the famous steam train, the Lilla Ångbåtslinjen.
Sigtuna
60 km north of Stockholm • Half day
Sigtuna is Sweden's oldest town, founded in 970 AD. It's known for its historic churches, cobbled streets, and Viking history.
Festivals
Stockholm Pride • Late July to early August
Stockholm Jazz Festival • Early October
Stockholm Film Festival • Mid-November
Pro tips
- Use the SL Access app for public transportation tickets and journey planning
- Visit Gamla Stan early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Take a boat tour of the archipelago for a unique perspective on the city
- Try a traditional Swedish fika (coffee break) at a local café
- Explore the city's green spaces, such as Djurgården and Kungsträdgården
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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