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Is the Stockholm Pass Worth It? (A Very Detailed Stockholm Pass Review)

If you are headed to Stockholm and looking to save some money, then you may have heard of the Stockholm Pass. But are you wondering if it’s worth it for you? Then keep on reading this comprehensive review, which covers all the features and benefits of the pass, as well as how to use it to make the Stockholm Pass worth it.

Stockholm is one of the most beautiful and underrated cities in Europe, and it offers plenty of things to see and do! You’ll find fairytale architecture and photogenic spots, tons of sights and attractions to keep you busy for a weekend (or even longer), the Baltic Sea’s second largest archipelago, and even unique subway station art.

It’s also got the reputation of being one of the most expensive cities in the world! So how can one save money in Stockholm? 

Enter the Stockholm Pass. This all-inclusive Stockholm city pass includes admission into almost 50 of the city’s top attractions and tours. It has an amazing variety of activities included – from museums, historical sites, boat tours, and even day trips to the surrounding islands.

But is the Stockholm Pass worth it for you? I know, I know, every time I look at a similar city pass like this (for example, the Paris Pass), I ask myself the same question. Many times, it includes a couple of cool things and the rest are just cheesy activities that I wouldn’t be caught dead doing.

However, this isn’t the case with the Stockholm Pass! It includes plenty of the top attractions and activities, from iconic sights and experiences, to some really cool hidden gems. I found plenty to do during my time in Stockholm, and I even wish I had more time to take advantage of more attractions included in the pass!

Keep on reading this Stockholm Pass review to find out everything you need to know – from its features, what it includes, its advantages, disadvantages, and much more – and whether the Stockholm Pass is worth it for you!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase or booking, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

What is the Stockholm Pass?

The Stockholm Pass (now officially the Go City Stockholm Pass) is an all-inclusive Stockholm city pass that grants the holder entry into almost 50 of the city’s top attractions. It includes access to many of the city’s top museums and historical sites, as well as boat tours and even day trips to the surrounding islands.

A hop-on, hop-off bus AND boat is also included in the pass as well.

The digital pass is immediately loaded onto your mobile device and can easily be used by scanning the QR code at the participating attractions.

We all know that Stockholm is an expensive city, so this can be a fantastic way to save some money – I show you how in this Stockholm Pass review!

What is the difference between the Stockholm Pass vs. Stockholm Card?

Nothing! The Stockholm Card is the old name for what is now the Go City Stockholm Pass. While some of the features and attractions have been updated, the Stockholm Pass works in the same way. There is essentially no difference between the Stockholm Pass vs. Stockholm Card.

What are some advantages of the Stockholm Pass?

  • Save money: This might be the biggest advantage – we all know that Stockholm is expensive AF! If you plan ahead and use it right, you can save a good amount of money using the Go City Stockholm Pass, leaving you with extra cash for more important things (like, idk, extra meatballs and cardamom buns). This is probably the biggest perk that makes the Stockholm Pass worth it!
  • Save time: You’ll avoid having to line up in the ticket queue at many attractions. Simply pull up and scan the QR code on your phone to gain entry.
  • Convenience: You can’t beat the convenience factor of having a Stockholm city pass – instead of lining up at ticket queues and digging around for some cash or your credit card to pay for admission, simply just pull up the QR code on your phone. Easy peasy!
  • Variety: I find many city passes to be limiting in what they offer – they usually have a handful of the top attractions, and the rest are super cheesy, lame activities that I wouldn’t be caught dead doing. This is NOT the case with the Stockholm Pass! I absolutely love the variety of activities that it offers – museums, historical sites, boat tours, and even day trips. There’s plenty of interesting things to see and do, that makes the Stockholm Pass worth it even for return visitors. You won’t get bored using this Stockholm city pass!

How much does the Stockholm Pass cost?

The Go City Stockholm Pass is available in durations of 1, 2, 3, and 5 days.

Pricing is as follows: 

  • 1 day: 549 SEK
  • 2 days: 959 SEK
  • 3 days: 1209 SEK
  • 5 days: 1569 SEK

There is also a child pass available for those aged 6-15:

  • 1 day: 249 SEK
  • 2 days: 369 SEK
  • 3 days: 479 SEK
  • 5 days: 629 SEK

However, some museums and attractions offer free admission for those under 18, so look up which ones you want to visit and do the math to determine if the Stockholm Pass is worth it for your child.

How do I purchase the Stockholm Pass?

You can purchase the Go City Stockholm Pass online here.

Upon purchase, you will receive the pass via email. Simply download the app to access your QR code, or print it out if you want to use a physical copy.

The pass becomes activated once it gets scanned at your first attraction.

How do I use the Stockholm Pass?

Your Stockholm Pass becomes active once you scan the QR code to enter your first attraction.

Do keep in mind that the Stockholm Pass is valid on consecutive days NOT for the corresponding number of hours (24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, etc) as with the old version of the pass. 

This means that once the pass is scanned, it is only valid on consecutive calendar days regardless of the time of day. For example, if you purchase a 2 day pass on a Tuesday and activate it at 2 pm, you only have until the end of Wednesday to use it, NOT until Thursday afternoon.

Therefore, to really make the Stockholm Pass worth it, get an early start on your first day! This will ensure that you maximize the time available to use up your pass.

What attractions are included in the Stockholm Pass?

Hop On, Hop Off Bus (490 SEK) + Boat (360 SEK)

In the past, I used to always turn my nose up at these Hop On, Hop Off tours because I thought they’d be cheesy, but after doing one recently, I have turned into a fan! They’re a fantastic way to get around the city, see the top sights, and learn interesting tidbits and fun facts about them. 

Stockholm takes it one step further and also has a Hop On, Hop Off boat as well.

Both the Hop On, Hop Off Bus and Boat are valid for the duration of your pass, which makes the Stockholm Pass worth it. However, a good way to get an introduction to the city and to get your bearings is to do it on the first day.

Drottningholm Palace (260 SEK) + Theatre (110 SEK)

Sitting just outside of Stockholm, Drottningholm Palace is the official residence of the King and Queen of Sweden. The beautiful palace draws inspiration from 16th and 17th century French architecture (like that of Versailles in Paris), and is one of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Sweden.

The palace grounds also feature a park, baroque garden, and Chinese Pavilion. In addition, the Stockholm city pass also allows you to the theatre, one of the best preserved from this time period. The boat ride to get to the palace is super scenic as well, and makes a lovely excursion on your Stockholm itinerary.

Skansen (220 SEK)

Skansen is the world’s oldest open-air museum, and is essentially Sweden in miniature. You’ll learn about all aspects of Swedish life and culture, throughout history up until today. Staff dress in period costumes and offer demonstrations showcasing traditional handicrafts, music, and food. There is also a zoo with Nordic animals.

In addition, you’ll find mini villages with over 150 examples of Swedish dwellings to show how Swedes lived and worked throughout time. The houses were collected from various parts of the country, deconstructed and transported to Skansen, and then rebuilt on site.

Vasa Museum (190 SEK)

The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most unique museums. It showcases the 17th century Vasa warship, considered the most impressive of its time. Unfortunately, the ship was too top-heavy and sank on its maiden voyage, just 20 minutes from shore.

It was salvaged out of the ocean 300 years later, and painstakingly restored to all of its original glory. You’ll see it on display here, with its intricately carved details.

Under the Bridges Boat Tour (345 SEK)

Stockholm is a city built on 14 islands connected by more than 50 bridges. One of the best ways to see the city is from the water, and the Under the Bridges tour takes you past some of Stockholm’s most iconic sights, and under some of its bridges. 

On this one-hour cruise, you’ll sail by such attractions as Gamla Stan, Sodermalm, and Djugarden, as well as see the inner island and through a lock that connects the Baltic Sea with Lake Mälaren. 

Royal Canal Boat Tour (260 SEK)

Another fantastic boat tour, the Royal Canal tour sails through the Djugarden Canal, which was built under the orders of King Charles XIV in 1825. You’ll not only see some stunning views of the Stockholm skyline, you’ll sail past idyllic green landscapes and see plenty of historical royal buildings as you make your way through the canal.

It’s a fantastic way to do some sightseeing while relaxing (and letting your feet get a break!).

Fotografiska (187 SEK)

Located in the Sodermalm neighborhood, Fotografiska is one of the most interesting museums in Stockholm. The world-renowned photography center and museum showcases the works of the world’s most famous photographers (such as Annie Leibovitz), as well as up-and-coming artists. It usually has four large exhibitions and 20 smaller installations throughout the year.

One plus about Fotografiska is that it is open late every night, so if you are looking for ways to use your Stockholm Pass after everything else has closed, this is a good place to do it!

Archipelago Tour (345 SEK)

Stockholm’s archipelago is the second largest in the Baltic Sea and extends over 50 miles from the city. It boasts some 30,000 islands, rocks, and skerries that have been carved out by glaciers over the course of millions of years.

One of the best ways to get a taste of the archipelago (especially if you have limited time in the city) is to take an archipelago cruise, during which you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours and see some of the islands, hear stories about the people who live on them, as well as enjoy some beautiful views of the water. 

Fjaderholmarna (170 SEK)

A few of the islands on the archipelago are home to charming villages that are perfect for a day trip. If you want to experience one of them, or are looking for a day trip option, consider taking an excursion to Fjaderholmarna.

Known as the “gateway to the archipelago” because it is the closest island to the city, Fjaderholmarna is home to quaint boutiques, seaside restaurants, trails, and plenty of spots to sunbathe and makes a perfect half-day or full-day excursion.

Other activities included in the Stockholm Pass:

If you are looking for other things to do with your Stockholm city pass, consider the following attractions as well:

  • Storkyrkan Stockholm Cathedral (75 SEK): The oldest church in Stockholm, located in the heart of the Old Town, with striking gothic and French architecture.
  • Nobel Prize Museum (130 SEK): Stockholm is where the Nobel Prize Banquet is held every year, and you’ll find out everything you need to know about the prestigious award and its history at this museum.
  • Nordiska Museet (140 SEK): This museum explores the Nordic lifestyle and Scandinavian traditions from the 16th century to the present, with exhibitions about everything from high fashion to folk art.
  • Vaxholm Fortress (100 SEK): Sail to another island of the Stockholm archipelago, home to a 500 year old fortress.

And much more – see all included attractions here.

What attractions are NOT included in the Stockholm Pass?

While the Stockholm Pass includes many of the top activities in the city, there are a few popular attractions that are included. Keep in mind that the following are NOT included in the Stockholm Pass when making your decision whether the Stockholm Pass is worth it:

  • ABBA Museum (there used to be a discount available in the old pass, however, this is no longer the case)
  • Royal Palace (this used to be included in the old Stockholm Pass, but was removed in the newest version)
  • Moderna Museet (admission is already free, though)
  • Transit Pass (in the past, this used to be offered as an add-on with the Stockholm city pass, but it is no longer the case. However, the price of the pass was sold at cost, so even if you buy directly from SE it is the same price)

Sample itinerary using the Stockholm Pass

I used a 3 day Stockholm Pass on a 4 day trip to Stockholm. Below is a breakdown of how I used it. Keep in mind that if you use the hop-on, hop-off bus and/or boat to get around (priced 490 SEK/360 SEK), you can save even more money!

Day 1:

  • Vasa Museum (190 SEK)
  • Skansen (220 SEK)
  • Under the Bridges Tour (345 SEK)

Day 2:

  • Drottningholm Palace (260 SEK)
  • Drottningholm Theatre (110 SEK)
  • Royal Canal Tour (260 SEK)

Day 3:

  • Archipelago Tour OR Fjaderholmarna (345 SEK)
  • Fotografiska (187 SEK)

Total priced individually: 1917 SEK

SAVINGS WITH STOCKHOLM PASS: 708 SEK

Alternately, if you are visiting Stockholm on a shorter trip, here is a sample 2 day itinerary:

Day 1:

  • Under the Bridges Tour (345 SEK)
  • Royal Canal Tour (260 SEK)
  • Fotografiska (187 SEK)

Day 2:

  • Archipelago Tour (345 SEK)
  • Vasa Museum (190 SEK)
  • Skansen (220 SEK)

Total priced individually: 1547 SEK

SAVINGS WITH STOCKHOLM PASS: 588 SEK

Ok…but is the Stockholm Pass worth it for me?

Still wondering if you should buy the Stockholm Pass? Honestly, I think the Stockholm Pass is worth it for most people, BUT consider the following when deciding if the Stockholm Pass is worth it for you:

The Stockholm Pass is worth it for you if…

  • Your Stockholm itinerary is between 2-5 days: This will give you a good amount of time to take advantage of all the attractions and activities that are included in the pass! You’ll get to experience a good mix of museums, historical sites, boat tours, and excursions.
  • You are a first time visitor to Stockholm and want to experience the top things to do: Many of the city’s iconic sights and top activities are included, which makes the Stockholm Pass worth it for first time visitors.
  • You are a return visitor to Stockholm and looking for new things to do: There are plenty of activity options included with the pass, including day trips, so the Stockholm Pass is also worth it if you are a return visitor.
  • You want the flexibility to see a lot of attractions without having to worry about price. Since it is an all-inclusive pass, you won’t have to worry about paying for all the included attractions individually – this is such a big convenience! 
  • You plan to do at least 2-3 activities a day

The Stockholm Pass is NOT worth it for you if…

  • You are only in Stockholm for one day. You would have to cram in a LOT during your one day in Stockholm in order to make the Stockholm Pass worth it for you.
  • You plan on having a super relaxed itinerary. You need to do at least 2-3 activities a day in order to make the Stockholm Pass worth it. It also isn’t worth it if you are staying in Stockholm for more than five days.
  • You prefer to wander the city. If you don’t want to visit attractions or do tours, and prefer to just sightsee by wandering the streets, eating, drinking, and shopping, then the Stockholm Pass probably is not worth it for you.
  • You are an extreme budget traveler. If you are on a budget wouldn’t pay for any attractions or tours anyway, then the Stockholm Pass probably isn’t worth it for you

Have you heard of the Stcokholm Pass? Do you find the Stockholm Pass worth it?

More Stockholm guides you may enjoy:
2 Days in Stockholm Itinerary
4 Days in Stockholm Travel Guide
Best Stockholm Instagram Spots
Stockholm Subway Art Tour
The Perfect Stockholm to Fjaderholmarna Day Trip

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B

Friday 16th of June 2023

Your trip looks amazing! We also used the Go City passes for our trip to Stockholm and enjoyed every second of it. Definitely value for money.