Stockholm: Family Friendly Private Ice Skating Tour & Lunch

Taking a break from the hustle of Stockholm’s city streets to glide across natural ice on a lake might just be one of the most authentic ways to experience Swedish winter. For around $193 per person, this 6-hour private tour offers the chance to learn Nordic ice skating with professional guidance, explore frozen lakes and scenic outdoor tracks, and enjoy a cozy outdoor lunch. Guided by a knowledgeable instructor, you’ll spend part of your day on natural ice, an experience that feels both adventurous and safe thanks to expertly maintained tracks.

What we really love about this tour is how seamlessly it combines outdoor activity with local culture—you’ll learn to skate on authentic natural ice, which is different from synthetic rinks, and try kicksleds, a genuine Northern winter craft. The second highlight? The outdoor picnic lunch with hot chocolate—a perfect way to warm up and take in the winter scenery.

A potential consideration for travelers is the dependency on weather conditions—if the ice isn’t safe or there’s no suitable snow, the activity might be replaced with kicksledding or could be canceled altogether. It’s best suited for those who enjoy being active outdoors, appreciate scenic views, and want a more authentic, hands-on winter experience. Families with children over four will find this especially engaging, and the private setup means it can be tailored to your group’s pace and interests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic natural ice experience on lakes and outdoor tracks.
Professional guides providing safety equipment and instruction, ideal for beginners.
Includes outdoor lunch and hot chocolate, blending activity with cozy downtime.
Versatile activities like kicksledding for children and adults, plus ice skating for all skill levels.
Flexible options for weather conditions, with potential substitutions if needed.
Private group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

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A Walkthrough of the Stockholm Ice Skating & Winter Tour

When you sign up for this private ice skating adventure, you’re signing up for more than just a lesson on how to glide across ice; you’re stepping into a genuine Swedish winter outing. The tour begins with hotel pickup within central and north Stockholm, where a professional guide will meet you and take you on a roughly 30 to 60-minute journey to the outdoor skating locations. This transfer alone makes it convenient—no need to worry about finding your way to the ice tracks yourself.

The Ice Skating on Natural Ice

Once at the location, you’ll be equipped with premium ice skates, boots, and protective gear—including knee and elbow pads, helmets, and safety backpacks. For children aged four and up, sturdy fixed-heel skates are provided, and they can try skating on the frozen lake ice or on plowed outdoor tracks. This is key because natural ice surfaces offer a different, more authentic skating feel compared to indoor rinks, and the natural setting adds a special charm to the experience.

Guided by your instructor, you’ll learn the basics of ice skating—perfect for beginners or those who want a gentle refresher. The guide, often multilingual, will ensure you’re comfortable and safe, especially on the best possible conditions for the day, which are carefully monitored. Several reviews praise guides like Simas for their welcoming attitude and in-depth knowledge, making learning easy and enjoyable.

Exploring Stockholm’s Winter Outdoors

Beyond skating, the tour takes you off the beaten path into Stockholm’s scenic outdoors. You’ll explore frozen lakes and scenic tracks, gaining a real sense of the city’s natural beauty in winter. This isn’t just about skating—it’s about experiencing the quiet beauty of Stockholm in winter, with views that many visitors miss when sticking to indoor attractions.

The tour’s safety measures are well thought-out. If the ice isn’t deemed safe, your guide might suggest trying kicksledding, which is a popular Scandinavian winter activity and a fun alternative. Kicksleds are also available for children, providing a less challenging but equally enjoyable way to enjoy the snow and ice.

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The Outdoor Picnic & Fika

After about three hours of outdoor activity, you’ll relax with a well-prepared outdoor lunch and a hot chocolate fika—a Swedish tradition of coffee and sweet treats. The hot chocolate is notably described as “tasty” and homemade, which adds an extra cozy touch. Imagine sitting on a blanket or benches, surrounded by winter scenery, with a warm drink in hand—this simple pleasure is a highlight for many.

Photos taken by your guide during the tour will be sent afterward, giving you lasting memories of your Swedish winter adventure. This personal touch, along with the private nature of the tour, makes it feel exclusive and tailored to your group.

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Why This Tour Delivers Real Value

Compared to a standard indoor ice skating experience, this private tour offers authenticity and immersion. You’re not just watching winter pass by through a window—you’re actively participating in a sport that’s woven into Swedish culture. The professional guidance ensures safety and makes learning accessible, even for those who’ve never skated before. Plus, the outdoor lunch and fika bring a nostalgic, local flavor to your day.

At $193 per person, the price might seem high compared to public skating rinks, but it includes high-quality equipment, safety gear, transportation, and personalized attention. The small group setting means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the flexibility to adapt to weather conditions adds peace of mind.

Many guests rave about their guides, like Simas, emphasizing how much a knowledgeable and welcoming instructor enhances the experience. The opportunity to try kicksledding, a true northern winter tradition, stands out as a unique perk. On top of that, the chance to witness Stockholm’s winter landscapes—often quieter and less touristy than summer—gives this outing a special, peaceful quality.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is best suited for families with children aged four and above, couples, or small groups of friends who love outdoor adventures and are eager to learn new skills. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic views, cozy outdoor meals, and authentic winter activities. If you’re a beginner or simply want to try something different from indoor attractions, this experience offers a genuine taste of Swedish winter life.

Travelers who prefer indoor sightseeing might find it a bit chilly or unpredictable, but for those craving an active, scenic, and culturally immersive outing, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone wanting more than just a glimpse of Stockholm in winter, this private ice skating tour offers an excellent mix of outdoor adventure, cultural authenticity, and personalized service. From the learning experience with top-notch equipment to the serene outdoor lunch, it’s a memorable way to indulge in local winter traditions.

If you enjoy being active outdoors and want to see Stockholm from a different perspective, this tour will not disappoint. The emphasis on safety, comfort, and authentic immersion makes it a standout option. And if the weather cooperates, you’ll leave with not only new skills but also beautiful photos and warm memories.

In essence, this experience provides excellent value for those wanting a genuine, active, and scenic winter adventure that celebrates Swedish outdoor life. It’s especially well-suited for families and small groups seeking a flexible, personalized day out in the snow.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged four and older are welcome, and they can try ice skating with provided sturdy fixed-heel skates. Kicksleds are also available for kids and adults.

What should I bring?
You’ll need outdoor clothing, gloves, and a change of clothes, as the activity is outdoors and can be wet or cold.

Can the tour be canceled due to weather?
Yes, the tour depends on weather conditions. If the ice isn’t safe or there’s no suitable snow, you might be offered alternative activities like kicksledding, or the tour could be canceled with a full refund.

How long does the transfer take?
Pickup from your hotel in Stockholm takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your location.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes an outdoor picnic lunch and a cup of hot chocolate. Photos from the guide are also sent afterward.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private group experience, offering personalized attention and flexibility to suit your needs.

Whether you’re after a fun outdoor adventure, an authentic taste of Swedish winter, or a memorable family activity, this private ice skating tour in Stockholm delivers on all fronts. Prepare to glide, laugh, and warm up over hot chocolate—an outing worth bundling up for.