Architectural drawing of Tullhuset building at Blasieholmen by Axel Nyström

Tullhuset, Blasieholmen

Tullhuset Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Blasieholmen Historical Site in Stockholm

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Tullhuset, or “The Customs House,” is a landmark of 19th-century industrial architecture situated on the Blasieholmen peninsula in central Stockholm. Once the heart of customs operations at Stockholm’s bustling harbor, Tullhuset is a testament to the city’s maritime, commercial, and architectural history. Although currently not open for regular public visits, Tullhuset’s significance continues to grow, especially with plans to house Sweden’s Museum of the Holocaust. This guide provides a detailed exploration of Tullhuset’s history, architecture, current status, practical visitor information—including visiting hours and ticketing—and tips for experiencing Blasieholmen’s cultural hub.

Historical view of Tullhuset building at Blasieholmen around 1900

Historical Overview: Tullhuset and Blasieholmen

Origins and Early History

Blasieholmen, previously known as Käpplingen, was once a separate island and a center for shipbuilding and trade. Its location facilitated the construction of the famous Vasa warship in the 1620s. As Stockholm expanded, Blasieholmen became integrated into the city and emerged as a key commercial district (Mitt i; Stockholmskällan).

By the 19th century, the northern shore of Blasieholmen was the epicenter of the city’s maritime trade. To manage the influx of goods, the City of Stockholm commissioned architect Axel Fredrik Nyström to design Tullhuset, completed in 1876 (Stockholmskällan).

Architectural Significance

Tullhuset exemplifies late 19th-century industrial and Neo-Renaissance architecture, characterized by robust brickwork, large arched windows, and a symmetrical façade. Its design balanced functionality—facilitating customs inspection and storage of goods—with architectural elegance, reflecting the authority and modernity of the customs service (Byggnadsvård.se; Avontuura).

The building’s enduring features include its original iron doors and window shutters, which were installed for security and fire protection. Tullhuset, alongside adjacent harbor magazines, forms one of Europe’s few remaining historic customs complexes (Byggnadsvård.se).

Tullhuset’s Role in Stockholm’s Development

From 1876 until the early 1940s, Tullhuset was the nerve center for customs operations, overseeing the regulation and taxation of goods crucial to Sweden’s economy (Mitt i). As trade evolved and harbor activities shifted, customs functions at Blasieholmen declined and were eventually relocated, with Tullhuset subsequently repurposed for offices and other commercial uses (Wikipedia).

Preservation, Threats, and Future Prospects

Tullhuset has faced threats from redevelopment, most notably the proposed Nobel Center project in the 2010s, which would have entailed its demolition. Heritage advocates succeeded in securing legal protection for Tullhuset, and in 2019, a court ruling ensured its preservation as a site of exceptional cultural value (Byggnadsvård.se; Fastighetsvärlden).

Looking ahead, there are concrete plans to transform Tullhuset and neighboring buildings into Sweden’s Museum of the Holocaust, establishing it as a major educational and cultural destination (Dagens Nyheter).

Visiting Tullhuset: Hours, Tickets, and Practical Information

Current Visiting Hours & Access

Regular Opening: As of July 2025, Tullhuset is not open for regular public visits; it primarily houses offices.
Special Events: Access is occasionally granted for guided tours and cultural events—these are typically announced by Stockholm’s tourist information centers or special event listings (View Stockholm).
Future Access: Once the Museum of the Holocaust is established, regular visiting hours and ticketed entry will be implemented. Check official museum and Stockholm tourism websites for updates.

Tickets

Current Policy: No ticket is required for exterior viewing or open house events. For special tours, check specific event details.
Anticipated Policy: Museum admission is expected to match other Stockholm museums (approx. 120–180 SEK for adults, with discounts for students, seniors, and children).

Accessibility

The area around Tullhuset is flat, paved, and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Blasieholmen is easily reached via public transport:
- Metro: Kungsträdgården (Blue Line), a 7-minute walk.
- Bus: Multiple lines stop nearby.
- Ferry: Nybrokajen terminal is adjacent (Destination Abroad).
Future renovations will ensure full accessibility in line with Swedish standards.

Visitor Facilities

Cashless Payments: Stockholm is largely cash-free; credit/debit cards are required for most purchases, including transport (Time Out).
Restrooms: Available at nearby museums and ferry terminals; on-site facilities will be provided with the museum project.
Dining: Nearby cafés and the Grand Hôtel offer excellent waterfront dining.

Blasieholmen: Nearby Attractions and Activities

Nationalmuseum: Sweden’s leading art and design museum, located across from Tullhuset (Nationalmuseum).
Waterfront Promenades: The harbor quays provide beautiful vistas for photography and leisurely walks.
Royal Palace and Gamla Stan: Both within walking distance, offering further historical and cultural experiences.
Ferry to Djurgården: Quick access to the Vasa Museum, Skansen, and other key sites (The Crazy Tourist).
Seasonal Events: Blasieholmen hosts festivals, outdoor exhibitions, and performances in the summer (StadsEvent).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Tullhuset open to the public?
A: Currently, Tullhuset is not open for regular visits. Access may be possible during special events or by prior arrangement.

Q: Are there entrance fees?
A: No fee for exterior viewing. Future museum operations will likely implement standard admission fees.

Q: Is Tullhuset accessible for wheelchairs?
A: The surrounding area is accessible, and future renovations will ensure barrier-free access throughout.

Q: How do I get to Tullhuset?
A: Take the Metro to Kungsträdgården, or use bus/ferry services to Blasieholmen or Nybrokajen.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography of the exterior is encouraged. Interior photography policies will depend on future museum guidelines.

Planning Your Visit: Tips

Best Time to Visit: Combine a walk around Tullhuset with trips to the Nationalmuseum and nearby attractions.
Weather: The waterfront can be windy—bring a jacket and dress in layers.
Public Transport: Use the SL Travelcard for easy, unlimited travel around Stockholm.
Stay Updated: Download the Audiala app for real-time updates, guided tours, and cultural event listings.

Summary of Key Information

Tullhuset is a vital piece of Stockholm’s maritime and architectural heritage. While currently limited to exterior visits, it is set to become a major cultural venue with the establishment of Sweden’s Museum of the Holocaust. Visitors can enjoy its striking façade, the scenic Blasieholmen waterfront, and nearby attractions like the Nationalmuseum and Royal Palace. For event schedules, ticketing, and future museum opening details, monitor Stockholm’s official tourism resources and museum websites (Byggnadsvård.se; Fastighetsvärlden; Mitt i).