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ICEHOTEL Sweden Review: Is It Worth the Price?

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind travel experience, look no further than ICEHOTEL Sweden. This hotel is made entirely of ice and snow, and it’s located on the Arctic Circle. But is it worth the price? Here’s a review.

When you stay at the ICEHOTEL Sweden, you’ll sleep on a bed of ice covered with reindeer skins. The temperature inside the hotel stays between 17 and 21 degrees Fahrenheit, so you’ll need to dress warmly. The hotel is made entirely of ice and snow, and it features Ice Art Suites, Snow Rooms, Ice Rooms, and an Ice Chapel.

The Ice Art Suite is the most expensive room type, and it comes with its own private sauna. The Snow Room is a bit less expensive, and it doesn’t have a private sauna. The Aurora Borealis Room is the least expensive room type, and it doesn’t have a private sauna or an ice sculpture.

If you’re looking for a truly unique travel experience, the ICEHOTEL Sweden is definitely worth the price. It’s an unforgettable experience that you’ll never forget.

What is the ICEHOTEL Sweden?

ICEHOTEL Sweden
Image from Booking.com

The ICEHOTEL Sweden is a hotel made entirely of ice and snow located in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden. It is the world’s largest ice hotel and was opened in 1989. Every year, the hotel is rebuilt using only natural materials such as snow and ice from the nearby Torne River.

Each winter in the village of Jukkasjarvi, about 100 miles north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland, an architectural wonder is reborn. This is ICEHOTEL, the first and largest hotel constructed entirely of ice.

Equal parts architecture and art, the hotel is designed and created by a new team every year — and it’s become so famous that artists are now submitting their proposals a full year ahead.

Where is the ICEHOTEL in Sweden?

 ICEHOTEL
Image from Booking.com

The ICEHOTEL is located in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden. It’s the world’s largest ice hotel and was opened in 1989.

How much does the ICEHOTEL cost per night?

This depends on the time of year, but the ICEHOTEL costs between 9,000 and 15,000 SEK (Swedish Krona) per night. This is equivalent to about $990-$1,650 USD.

What is included in the price?

The price of a stay at the ICEHOTEL includes a bed in an igloo room made of ice, breakfast, and access to the sauna. You’ll also get a thermal sleeping bag to sleep in, as well as a reindeer skin to use as a mattress.

What are the rooms like?

The hotel rooms at ICEHOTEL are made entirely of ice and snow. They feature an ice bed, an ice table, and an ice chair. The walls are decorated with ice sculptures, and the room temperature is kept at a chilly 23 degrees Fahrenheit (-5 degrees Celsius).

ICEHOTEL by the numbers

ICEHOTEL by the numbers

Despite the fact that ICEHOTEL melts away completely each spring and is recreated in a totally new design every winter, some things do remain constant.

The hotel is by far the biggest structure in Jukkasjarvi — a village so tiny that sled dogs outnumber people (800 to 600). It occupies just over 59,000 square feet of frozen real estate.

ICEHOTEL
Photo: bjaglin

The ice used to build this breathtaking structure comes directly from the nearby frozen river. About 2,000 tons of ice and an additional 3,000 tons of ice and snow combined are required to create its vast labyrinth of chambers, corridors, and decorative art.

The specific accommodations (yes, people really do stay here) change every year, but generally include a massive luxury suite, a number of art suites containing decorative and sculptural elements, ice rooms, snow rooms, group rooms, a vodka bar, and a chapel.

Ice Rooms

During the winter, the hotel had 47 hotel rooms in total. Standard ice rooms go for about $500 per night, while suites can cost upwards of $1,000. Ice rooms can be found in the main hotel as well as in the ICEHOTEL 365, which is a year-round facility attached to the main hotel.

Snow Rooms

If you’re not interested in sleeping on a bed made of ice, you can opt for a “snow room” instead. These rooms are made entirely of snow and cost about the same as an ice room.

There are also several permanent structures on-site, including a restaurant, a warm changing room for guests, cabins, and other heated accommodations for the faint of heart. Restrooms are also heated — but located a short walk away from the ice structure.

Snow Rooms
Photo : Laplandish

Art Suite

Art Suite

The Art Suite is the most popular room at ICEHOTEL. Each year, a new team of artists is brought in to design these one-of-a-kind suites. It’s really a hotel and art exhibition wrapped into one. Once you get there, you’ll appreciate the intricate ice sculpturing and detail that’s done.

Guests can expect to find everything from intricate ice blocks to hand-carved furniture made out of snow. Some ice suites even have their own igloos.

Igloos

If you’re not interested in staying in the main ICEHOTEL structure, you can always opt for one of the nearby igloos instead. These are smaller, more intimate accommodations that offer a unique experience.

Pricing for an igloo starts at about $200 per night. If you’re staying in an igloo, you’ll have to pay for your own meals. However, if you’re staying in the main ICEHOTEL structure, all meals are included in the price.

You’ll also have access to the hotel’s sauna and other amenities. If you’re staying in an igloo, you can expect to sleep on a bed of reindeer hides. These are typically placed on top of a layer of ice.

You’ll also be given thermal sleeping bags to keep you warm. Igloos typically have two beds, but some may have more.

Igloos are made out of blocks of ice that are cut from the Torne River. The blocks are then stacked on top of each other and held together with a mixture of snow and water.

Igloos typically have a diameter of about 10 feet and are tall enough to stand up in but offer excellent views of the Northern Lights as you discover silence in the glistening snow-clad forests.

ICEHOTEL Restaurant

ICEHOTEL Restaurant
Image from TripAdvisor

The ICEHOTEL Restaurant is a popular destination for visitors to the hotel. The restaurant serves traditional Swedish cuisine, including dishes such as reindeer meat and elk soup. It’s also the only place in the hotel where you can buy alcohol right at the ice bar, of course.

ICEHOTEL 365

ICEHOTEL 365
Image from ICEHOTEL Facebook Page

ICEHOTEL 365 is the newest addition to this Swedish landmark, and it’s the first permanent ice and snow hotel in the world. That means that anyone who wishes to go on an ice escapade can do so no matter the season.

The hotel is made entirely of snow and ice, and it features a bar, restaurant, chapel, and an ice suite that sleeps two people. ICEHOTEL 365 is located in Jukkasjärvi, a village in Swedish Lapland.

The village is home to ICEHOTEL, which is the world’s largest hotel made of snow and ice. ICEHOTEL was founded in 1989, and since then, it has been rebuilt every year from December to April.

In 2016, ICEHOTEL opened ICEHOTEL 365, which is a permanent structure that uses solar power to keep the hotel at a cool temperature year-round. If you’re looking for a unique vacation experience, ICEHOTEL 365 is the perfect place for you.

How do I get to ICEHOTEL Sweden?

ICEHOTEL is located in the village of Jukkasjarvi in Northern Sweden, about 200 kilometers (120 miles) north of the city of Kiruna. The best way to get here is by airplane or train.

There are direct flights from Stockholm to Kiruna, which take about 2 hours. You can also take a train from Stockholm, which takes about 14 hours.

ICEHOTEL Amenities

In addition to the accommodations and restaurant, ICEHOTEL also offers a number of other amenities, including:

  • A sauna and steam room
  • Hot tub
  • An ice bar
  • A conference center
  • A weddings and events venue
  • An art exhibition
  • A theater
  • Gift shop

Crib and extra bed policies

There are also additional costs that aren’t immediately reflected in the overall price, and which must be paid during your stay. The maximum number of beds might differ depending on the space chosen.

Double-check to verify that enough room is available before you book a double room. All cribs/beds will be made available upon request if they are available.

What kind of breakfast is served at ICEHOTEL?

ICEhotel food
Image from TripAdvisor

When you stay at the ICEHOTEL, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast each morning of your stay. You’ll have a variety of breakfast options to choose from, including traditional Swedish breakfast items like pancakes and eggs.

You can also enjoy a continental breakfast with pastries and fruit. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to start your day off right with a hearty breakfast at the ICEHOTEL.

Can I park a car at Icehotel?

If you’re planning on visiting the ICEHOTEL, you may be wondering about parking options. The good news is that there is parking available, although it is subject to availability.

When you arrive, simply pull up to the front entrance and a parking attendant will help you find a spot. Keep in mind that parking at the ICEHOTEL can be busy, so it’s always best to arrive early to ensure that you can find a spot.

If you’re planning on visiting the ICEHOTEL for an extended amount of time, check out the options for public parking nearby. Those, too, are subject to availability and may be rather pricey. If you’re going to the ICEHOTEL, reserve a space in advance to ensure that you can find one.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation and a fun experience, Sweden’s ICEHOTEL would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

See Related: Best Museums in Europe

When is the best time to visit the ICEHOTEL?

The ICEHOTEL is open from December to August, with a variety of activities and experience choices available all year. However, many individuals prefer visiting the ICEHOTEL in winter.

ICEHOTEL During the Winter Season

ICEHOTEL in winter is an experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world. From December through March, the ICEHOTEL is open for business and ready to give visitors a one-of-a-kind experience.

You can spend time in the new hand-carved arts suites or ice rooms before the snow melts into the River Torne anew. The seasonal artwork suite is individually crafted each year with inventive and even quirky designs from artists of many cultures.

The Ice Hotel is unlike any other; it’s the first of its kind. There are 20 more regular ice rooms, which feature less artwork and a bed of ice. In addition to ice seats, there is a third option known as Warm Accommodation. ICEHOTEL in the winter is not to be missed.

ICEHOTEL the rest of the year

ICEHOTEL the rest of the year
Image from ICEHOTEL Facebook Page

The idea for Icehotel 365 was formed in December 2016 to give our customers the finest winter experiences possible. This permanent structure contains a bespoke ice house that complements existing art and bathroom units and also includes an ice room and an ice bar.

The dome roof of this roof was constructed at temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit and offers solar power in the summer. It’s a well-done building in Northern Sweden. The summers of May and July offer a variety of settings, including kayaking, hiking, and fishing beneath the midnight sun.

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Construction and deconstruction of the ICEHOTEL

Sometime in mid-November, snow builders begin spraying steel forms with snow. In a few days, when the snow is completely frozen, the forms are removed — leaving the skeleton of ICEHOTEL. At this point, artists from all over the world gather to begin the task of realizing their crystalline dreams.

The work is completed in phases, and as sections are finished, guests arrive to stay for the day or overnight and view continuing construction. When the entire complex is complete, the hotel remains full for the duration of the season.

Providing spectacular views of the Northern Lights, ICEHOTEL is a popular spot for adventurous travelers and hosts hundreds of weddings each year.

When the spring thaw begins, ICEHOTEL begins to thaw as well, melting slowly back into the Torne River until it has completely disappeared. Lasting only a few months and unique each year, a visit to this handmade, dreamlike creation is truly an experience of a lifetime.

See Related: Most Famous Hotels in Paris, France

Is Sweden’s ICEHOTEL worth the price?

ICEhotel design
Image from ICEHOTEL Facebook Page

There is no simple answer to this question. It depends on what you are looking for and what your budget is. ICEHOTEL Sweden is a unique experience that not everyone will enjoy. If you are willing to pay for the novelty factor and are okay with sleeping in a cold room, then it may be worth it for you.

However, if you are looking for a more comfortable and luxurious experience, there are better options available.

At the end of the day, if you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation experience, the answer is yes. From the one-of-a-kind accommodations to the unique amenities, there’s no place quite like ICEHOTEL. It’s an experience that you’ll never forget.

FAQ

What is the temperature inside ICEHOTEL Sweden?

The temperature inside ICEHOTEL Sweden varies depending on the time of year. In the winter months, it can get as low as -5 degrees Celsius (23 Fahrenheit). In the summer months, the temperature is a bit warmer, but still chilly at around 10 degrees Celsius (50 Fahrenheit).

What should I wear to sleep in ICEHOTEL Sweden?

You will need to bring your own sleeping bag or rent one from ICEHOTEL Sweden. It is important to wear warm clothes to bed, as you will get cold during the night. We recommend wearing long underwear, socks, and a hat to bed.

Can I take pictures inside ICEHOTEL Sweden?

Yes! In fact, we encourage it. ICEHOTEL Sweden is a very photogenic place and you are sure to get some great shots. Just be respectful of other guests and do not use flash photography.

Is ICEHOTEL Sweden family-friendly?

ICEHOTEL Sweden is generally suitable for families. However, we recommend that children be at least 6 years old to stay here. Younger children may find the cold temperature and lack of activities to be too much.

Related Resources

ICEHOTEL

Varies
8.9

Experience

9.5/10

Price

8.5/10

Quality

9.0/10

Location

8.5/10

Pros

  • Restaurant on-site
  • Experience
  • Design

Cons

  • Price

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