ABBA The Museum

Step into the shimmering, sequin-drenched world of Sweden’s most triumphant musical export, where an immersive experience turns visitors from spectators into the fifth member of ABBA.

What to expect

ABBA The Museum is far from a dusty collection of glass cases. The experience is tactile and high-energy. You begin by walking through the “Swedish Music Hall of Fame,” but the heart of the museum lies in the interactive exhibits. You are granted access to a virtual stage where you can perform alongside avatars of Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Anni-Frid, and a recording studio where you can try your hand at mixing original tracks.

The gallery displays are meticulously curated, featuring original stage costumes—the very velvet capes and platform boots that became icons of 1970s glam—as well as gold discs, handwritten lyrics, and the actual furniture from the band’s legendary Polar Studios. Don't miss the telephone in the museum that only four people in the world have the number to; occasionally, the band members call it to chat with unsuspecting visitors.

History & significance

Opened in May 2013 on Djurgården island, the museum serves as a permanent monument to the quartet that won the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest with "Waterloo." It chronicles their journey from humble beginnings in the 1960s to their global dominance and eventual hiatus. The museum provides a somber yet celebratory look at the creative tension and brilliant production techniques—led by Benny and Björn—that defined the "ABBA sound," cementing their place in pop culture history.

Practical tips

Booking: Tickets are timed and capacity-controlled to ensure everyone gets a turn at the interactive consoles. You must book online in advance; tickets rarely remain for walk-ins during peak season.
Timing: Arrive 15 minutes before your slot. Weekday mornings (immediately upon opening at 10:00 AM) are the quietest times to visit.
Cashless: Sweden is a pioneer of the cashless economy; ensure you have a card, as the museum and its gift shop do not accept cash.
Duration: Plan for two to three hours to fully engage with the interactive singing and dancing consoles.

Getting there

The museum is located on the island of Djurgården at Djurgårdsvägen 68. The most scenic way to arrive is via the Djurgården ferry (Line 82), which departs from Slussen in Södermalm and takes approximately 10 minutes. Alternatively, take the Tram (Line 7) from T-Centralen and disembark at the "Nordiska museet/Vasamuseet" stop.

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