Stockholm: The Skansen Aquarium Entry Ticket

Experience the Wild Side at Stockholm’s Skansen Aquarium

If you’re looking for a family-friendly, affordable day out in Stockholm, the Skansen Aquarium offers a lively glimpse into animals from around the world—without the hefty price tag. For just $17 per person, you gain access to a cozy, well-curated space packed with more than 30 species of animals, from tropical fish to lemurs. The experience lasts for a full day, giving you plenty of time to explore and engage with the exhibits.

What makes this experience particularly special are two standout features: the chance to pet snakes and tarantulas on weekends and school holidays, and the opportunity to walk among ring-tailed lemurs during sunny summer days. These hands-on encounters make animal lovers and curious kids alike feel connected to the creatures in a way that often surpasses traditional zoo visits.

A word of caution: since Skansen Aquarium is a part of Skansen Park, you’ll need a separate ticket to access the main park, which might be an extra step if you’re planning a full day of sightseeing. Also, be prepared to be primarily indoors, which is perfect for cooler days but might limit outdoor exploration unless you time your visit during the warmer months.

This experience suits families, animal enthusiasts, and travelers keen to enjoy a compact but impactful wildlife encounter. If you’re after a relaxed, engaging, and budget-friendly outing, Skansen Aquarium is a fine choice—especially for those who want close-up interactions with animals in a manageable setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable entry at just $17 offers great value for a diverse animal collection.
• Hands-on experiences available on weekends and holidays with petting opportunities.
• Seasonal outdoor access to walk among lemurs on sunny days from May to September.
• Close contact with a wide variety of species, including reptiles, mammals, and birds.
• Accessible and flexible—valid for one day with no need to rush.
• Part of Skansen Park—requires a separate entrance ticket to access the park itself.

A Closer Look at the Skansen Aquarium

When we think about visiting an aquarium or zoo-like attraction in Stockholm, Skansen-Akvariet immediately stands out for its intimate scale and focus on personal contact. You get a real sense that this isn’t just about viewing animals behind glass; it’s about experiencing and understanding them on a more sensory level.

The Setting and Layout

The aquarium is housed within a cozy, welcoming facility that has been expanding for over 40 years. It feels more like an animal sanctuary or ‘ark’ than a typical aquarium, which adds to its charm. The layout is straightforward, making it easy to navigate without feeling overwhelmed. As you walk through, you encounter a broad spectrum of species—from colorful coral reefs and tropical fish to monkeys, lizards, snakes, and crocodiles.

The environment is designed to create close contact with animals, but naturally, it’s not a place for cuddling. Still, the proximity allows you to observe behaviors and details you might miss in larger, more commercial attractions.

The Animal Collection

You’ll be delighted by the variety here. Expect to see fish, turtles, parrots, sloths, and scorpions. The collection of mammals and reptiles is particularly notable, with some species from far-flung places. The inclusion of species from around the world provides an educational touch—helping visitors understand biodiversity beyond their local experiences.

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Petting and Interaction: What You Need to Know

The highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to pet snakes and tarantulas—but only on weekends and school holidays. This is a unique feature that sets Skansen Aquarium apart from many other attractions. If you’re traveling with kids who love animals, this hands-on element can be a highlight, creating lasting memories.

On sunny summer days (May to September), there’s even the chance to walk among the lemurs in their outdoor enclosure. This rare chance to get close to these charismatic creatures adds an element of adventure—though it’s weather-dependent, so plan accordingly.

The Practicalities

The entry fee of $17 feels like a good deal for what you get—especially considering the variety and the interactive opportunities. Remember, this ticket grants access only to the aquarium, so if you wish to explore Skansen Park itself, you’ll need a separate ticket. The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs.

Since the experience is designed to be flexible, you can visit at your convenience within the valid day, making it a relaxed part of a day’s itinerary. The observation areas and petting corners are designed to maximize the interaction without feeling cramped.

How to Maximize Your Visit

Timing can make a difference. If you’re particularly interested in petting the snakes and tarantulas, aim to visit during weekends or school holidays. To see the lemurs outdoors, check the weather forecast—these playful creatures are best appreciated on sunny days from May through September.

Bring your curiosity and patience; the staff are friendly and knowledgeable and can tell you more about each species. Since food and drinks are not included, consider packing a snack or water bottle, especially if you’re combining this visit with exploring Skansen Park.

Why It’s a Good Choice for Different Travelers

For families with children, the hands-on animal experiences and manageable size make it a hit. For solo travelers or animal enthusiasts, the chance to see a diverse collection and interact directly with some species offers an authentic, memorable experience. Budget-conscious visitors will appreciate the low cost with a high impact.

While it’s not a large zoo or aquarium, the intimacy of Skansen Aquarium creates a more personal connection—and that’s often what makes the difference between a good visit and a great one. It’s perfect for travelers who value quality over quantity and are interested in learning about animals in a relaxed setting.

Final Thoughts

The Stockholm Skansen Aquarium is an unexpectedly charming spot that combines affordability, variety, and interaction. It’s a small but thoughtfully curated space where you and your family can get close to the animal world without breaking the bank.

The opportunities to pet and walk among animals, especially the lemurs, add a memorable touch that many larger attractions can’t match. Plus, the fact that it’s part of the larger Skansen complex means you can easily turn a visit into an entire day of exploring if you wish.

If you’re seeking a genuine, engaging, and budget-friendly wildlife experience in Stockholm—especially if you’re traveling with kids or animal lovers—this is a choice worth making.

FAQ about Skansen Aquarium

Do I need a separate ticket to access Skansen Aquarium?
Yes, you will need a ticket to Skansen itself to access the aquarium. The aquarium ticket is separate and is valid for one day.

What animals can I pet at Skansen Aquarium?
On weekends and school holidays, you can pet snakes and tarantulas in the petting corner. It’s a special feature that adds a hands-on dimension to the visit.

When can I see the lemurs outdoors?
You can walk among the lemurs on sunny days from May to September. It’s weather-dependent, so check the forecast before planning.

How much does the entry cost?
The entry fee is $17 per person, making it a very accessible option for most travelers.

Is the aquarium accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the exhibits comfortably.

How long can I stay during one visit?
Your ticket is valid for one day, so you can explore at your own pace, whether you want a quick visit or a leisurely day.

Are food and drinks available at the aquarium?
No, food and drinks are not included; you might want to bring your own or plan to buy them outside the aquarium.

Can I combine this with a visit to Skansen Park?
Yes, but keep in mind you’ll need a separate ticket for Skansen Park itself if you want to explore beyond the aquarium.

What makes this experience unique?
Its personal contact with animals, especially the petting opportunities and outdoor lemur walk, sets it apart from traditional aquariums or zoos.

Discovering Skansen Aquarium in Stockholm offers an authentic, engaging, and affordable way to connect with animals from around the world. Whether you’re traveling with family or on your own animal adventure, this cozy spot promises memorable moments without a hefty price tag.

You can check availability for your dates here: