Kolmården with kids 2026 – the complete guide for families
Kolmården is one of Sweden's most beloved family destinations. With over 750 animal species, Scandinavia's fastest wooden coaster, and views over Bråviken, the park draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. This guide helps you plan a smooth and memorable visit with the kids in 2026.
Where is Kolmården?
Kolmården is located on the shores of Bråviken outside Norrköping in Östergötland, about 150 km south of Stockholm. The nearest city is Norrköping, reachable by direct train from Stockholm in just over an hour. From there, a bus takes you on to the park.
Prices and tickets 2026
Kolmården's entry tickets for 2026 vary by season:
| Ticket | Low season | Mid season | High season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children 3–12 years | 199 SEK | 299 SEK | 479 SEK |
| Adult (13 and over) | 299 SEK | 399 SEK | 579 SEK |
| Children under 3 | Always free | ||
| Annual pass (Wild Card) | From 756 SEK |
Tip: If you're visiting Kolmården more than once during the season, the annual pass is clearly worth it. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance — no pre-booking required, but it's wise to book popular animal experiences in advance.
Opening hours Kolmården 2026
Kolmården is open during the season, which runs from spring to autumn, with special openings during Halloween and Christmas. Always check current opening hours at kolmarden.com before your visit, as they vary day by day throughout the season.
Attractions and experiences
Wildfire — Europe's fastest wooden coaster
Wildfire is the park's main draw for thrill-seekers. The wooden coaster reaches speeds of up to 115 km/h, stands 56 metres tall, and features three inversions during its two-minute ride. It's Europe's fastest wooden coaster and a must for older kids and adults.
Safari park animals
Kolmården is Scandinavia's largest zoo, with a wide range of species from savannah, jungle, and ocean. The giraffes on the savannah, the tigers, and the bears are family favourites. If you want to get really close to the animals, guided animal encounters can be booked — capybaras, giraffes, tigers, and bears.
Cable car
The world's first cable car safari offers a magical view over the park and its animals. Book a time slot in advance to avoid queuing.
Tropicarium
The Tropicarium houses reptiles, crocodiles, and an impressive aquarium — perfect for a break from the sun or on a rainy day.
Bamse's World — Trollskogen
For the youngest visitors, Trollskogen with Bamse and friends is an unmissable stop. Carousels, theatre, and a fairy-tale atmosphere make it one of the park's most appreciated areas for families with small children.
Staying at Vildmarkshotellet
If you want to make a real adventure of it, you can stay overnight at Vildmarkshotellet inside the park. Combine it with BBQ by the campfire and exclusive animal encounters for an experience the kids will never forget.
Kolmården with very young children
Children under 3 get in free, and the park has pushchair-friendly paths on most routes. Remember to bring a change of clothes, sunscreen, and plenty of snacks — days in the park are long and energy-intensive for the little ones.
Tips and advice before your visit
- Arrive early. The park is quietest in the morning. Popular attractions like Wildfire and the cable car fill up fast.
- Book animal encounters in advance. Spots are limited and sell out quickly during high season.
- Bring your own food. There are restaurants in the park, but bringing your own snacks and drinks saves both money and time.
- Dress the kids in layers. The weather by Bråviken can change throughout the day, especially in spring and early autumn.
- Download the park map. Kolmården is large — a map saves time and frustration.
Prepare before the trip — label the clothes
A full day at Kolmården means a lot of running around, many outfit changes, and clothes that easily get mixed up in the wardrobe at Vildmarkshotellet or at the campsite. If you're staying overnight, it's especially important that all garments are labelled — tops, jackets, shoes, and bags.
Many families solve this with self-adhesive name labels from Lappu before the trip. The labels attach to the wash-care label in clothing, but work just as well on shoes, water bottles, and lunch boxes. They withstand 60°C washing, dishwasher, and tumble dryer — and cost 139 SEK for 124 labels.
Want to save a little extra before the trip? Use the code LAPPU at checkout for 20% off. See all current offers here.
Frequently asked questions about Kolmården
Where is Kolmården?
Kolmården is located on the shores of Bråviken outside Norrköping in Östergötland, about 150 km south of Stockholm.
How much does entry to Kolmården cost in 2026?
Children aged 3–12 cost 199–479 SEK depending on the season. Adults cost 299–579 SEK. Children under 3 always get in free. Annual passes are available from 756 SEK.
When does Kolmården open in 2026?
Kolmården is open during the season from spring to autumn with varying opening hours. Check current dates at kolmarden.com.
Which animals are at Kolmården?
Kolmården is home to over 750 animal species — including tigers, giraffes, bears, capybaras, wolves, and a wide range of marine animals in the Tropicarium.
How big is Kolmården?
The park covers approximately 1.5 square kilometres and is Scandinavia's largest zoo.
Who owns Kolmården?
Kolmården is owned by Parks & Resorts Scandinavia AB.
Is there camping near Kolmården?
Yes, there are camping options in the area. Inside the park there is also Vildmarkshotellet for those who want to stay overnight with the full park experience.