About Cirkus Stockholm
Located on Djurgården, Cirkus Stockholm is a historic performing arts venue that hosts concerts, musicals, contemporary circus, theatre, conferences, TV broadcasts, and special events. Since opening in 1892, it has evolved from a permanent home for traveling circus troupes into a venue combining historic architecture with modern facilities. Its 2015 “Nya Cirkus” annex was nominated for Stockholm’s Building of the Year in 2016 (Cirkus official site; Visit Stockholm).
Cirkus is part of the Royal Djurgården district and the Cirkus Venues group, alongside Hotel Hasselbacken and Backstage Hotel Stockholm. It is also known for its varied programme, including innovative works by Cirkus Cirkör, and its commitment to accessible and sustainable event management (Concerts50; Bandsintown).
History and cultural significance
Cirkus was inaugurated on May 25, 1892, as a permanent venue for traveling circus troupes. Its original rotunda had ornate façades and a spacious auditorium. Expansions and modernisations followed, including a significant upgrade for the musical Kristina från Duvemåla in 1997/1998. Cirkus has been a listed building since 1983, protecting its heritage while allowing further modernisation (Cirkus official site).
Designed by White Architects, the “Nya Cirkus” annex opened in 2015. Its contemporary glass-and-metal structure was integrated with the historic building and includes an 800-seat stage (Cirkus official site; Visit Stockholm).
Cirkus Cirkör, Sweden’s pioneering contemporary circus company, has called Cirkus home since the mid-1990s. Its shows combine acrobatics, theatre, and music, while its educational programmes support emerging talent. Productions include “Tipping Point” (2024) and “The Extraordinary History of Circus” (2025) (Cirkus Cirkör).
The venue has staged Swedish musicals and international hits, including Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’s Kristina från Duvemåla, Chess, and MAMMA MIA!. Its acoustics and sightlines are praised for performances ranging from classical and jazz to pop and comedy (Cirkus official site; Concerts50; Bandsintown).
What to see and experience
The venue
The historic main arena has a striking orange façade, a spacious manège floor, and a 20-meter-high ceiling. It is suited to concerts, musicals, conferences, exhibitions, and banquets, with capacity for up to 1,750 standing guests or 1,644 seated guests (Venuu.se; Cirkus official).
The 2015 Nya Cirkus, also known as Lilla Cirkus, is designed for smaller events and seats up to 784 guests. It has a flexible stage, private greenrooms, and a large foyer for receptions and mingling (Stockholm City).
Renovated in 2019, Festvåningen provides a private setting for up to 100 guests, with private entrances and a cloakroom. The historic Ernst Rolf Loge offers a VIP space for up to 12 guests.
Events and atmosphere
Cirkus’s programme ranges from concerts by artists such as Nick Cave and Brandi Carlile to major musicals, international expos, trade fairs, and private events. The Skandiascenen stage supports varied programming, including family-friendly shows. The venue’s historic elegance, high ceilings, and ornate details are paired with modern renovations and facilities (Triphobo).
Food and drink
Cirkus Restaurant serves creative bistro dining influenced by Swedish and international cuisine. It seats 200 for dinners or 500 for standing receptions and has several bars. Banquet packages and flexible catering are available (Cirkus official).
The menu includes Swedish classics, international dishes, and circus-themed desserts, with curated wines and non-alcoholic options. Group dining and dinner-show packages are available.
Sustainability and community
Cirkus holds ISO 14001 environmental certification, uses energy-efficient technology, and practises comprehensive waste management (Cirkus Sustainability). It is located in Royal Djurgården, which has received Green Destinations Platinum recognition. Public transport to Cirkus is powered mainly by renewables; cycling is encouraged, with dedicated bike lanes and secure parking (Earth5R; Ecotsy; Travel Notes & Beyond).
Cirkus collaborates with local communities on sustainability and cultural programming (Visit Stockholm). Accessibility is supported with flexible seating, staff assistance, and bilingual information.
Practical visiting information
Hours and tickets
Cirkus operates according to its event schedule. Doors typically open 1–2.5 hours before performances. Box office hours are generally Monday–Friday, 10:00–18:00. Check event-specific details on the official Cirkus website.
Tickets are available online through the official website, through Ticketmaster, or at the box office. Prices generally range from SEK 200 to SEK 900. Early booking is recommended for popular events.
Accessibility and services
Cirkus provides wheelchair access, hearing loops, and staff assistance. Contact the box office in advance about special requirements. Cloakrooms can accommodate up to 2,000 guests, and staff can help with seating, directions, and special requests.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available at the venue; Wi-Fi is also available throughout Stockholm (Visit Stockholm). Shops and modern restrooms are on-site.
Address and transport
Address: Djurgårdsslätten 43-45, Stockholm, 115 21 (Live Nation)
Cirkus can be reached by tram, bus, ferry, or bicycle. Take Tram 7 to Djurgården, or buses 44, 47, and 67. Parking is limited, so public transport is recommended.
Restaurant hours and accommodation
The restaurant opens at 16:30 for evening events and 2.5 hours before matinees. Nearby accommodation includes historic Hasselbacken and the modern Pop House Hotel, both within walking distance.
Tips
- Book tickets and restaurant reservations in advance.
- Arrive early to explore the venue and nearby attractions.
- Check the calendar for special events and festivals.
- There is no strict dress code; smart casual is common.
- Dress for the weather and consider using public transport.
- For current events and tickets, consult the Cirkus official website and download the Audiala app for personalised updates.
- Guided tours are offered occasionally; check the website for availability.
Nearby places
Cirkus is in Djurgården, a royal park and leisure district with several nearby attractions. Skansen, the Vasa Museum, and Gröna Lund are described as just steps away. Other nearby destinations include ABBA The Museum and Rosendal Palace Gardens. The area also offers photographic views of the venue’s façade, its interiors, and Djurgården.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are Cirkus Stockholm’s visiting hours?
Hours vary by event. Doors typically open 1–2.5 hours before performances; check the official website for details.
How do I buy tickets?
Tickets are available online, through Ticketmaster, and at the box office.
Is Cirkus accessible?
Yes. Wheelchair access, hearing loops, and staff assistance are provided.
What transport options are available?
Tram, bus, ferry, and cycling options are available.
Are dining options available?
Yes. Cirkus Restaurant and the venue’s bars serve food and drinks.
Are guided tours offered?
Occasionally. Check the website for availability.
