Frozen walls shimmer under ethereal light as reindeer pelts cover sculpted ice beds, offering one of the world’s most surreal overnight stays. Tucked into the Arctic wilderness of Swedish Lapland, the Ice Hotel isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s a seasonal work of art rebuilt every winter using ice from the nearby Torne River. For travelers craving something unforgettable, it delivers both isolation and inspiration in equal measure. From sleeping at sub-zero temperatures to witnessing the northern lights overhead, this rare experience blends adventure with design. This guide shares how to plan your stay, stay warm, and make it magical.
Stay in a One-of-a-Kind Ice Art Suite – nightly carved-by-artist experience
Inside Sweden’s Icehotel, each Ice Art Suite transforms into a nightly ephemeral masterpiece sculpted by international artists. These suites aren’t just sleeping spaces—they’re immersive art installations crafted from snow and crystal-clear Arctic ice blocks pulled directly from the nearby Torne River. No two suites are alike. One night you may sleep under swirling ice dragons, while another may place you inside an ethereal frozen forest. Guests are provided expedition-grade thermal sleeping bags atop insulated beds layered with reindeer hides, offering surprising warmth in temperatures kept at a constant –5 to –7°C. The effect is surreal and silent, making it one of the world’s most unique sleeping experiences. Before settling in, a full orientation helps you understand how to comfortably rest in freezing temperatures. Many guests pair the overnight stay with a private wake-up call of hot lingonberry juice, delivered by staff in the morning. The suite melts in spring—leaving behind only photos and memories—making your stay a once-in-a-lifetime moment that vanishes with the season. Whether visiting for art, adventure, or novelty, booking a night in one of these ice suites offers a rare glimpse into the harmony of nature and human imagination, frozen together under the Arctic sky.
Alternate Nights: Ice Room + Warm Kaamos Room – comfort meets novelty
Balancing comfort with curiosity is easy when alternating between the Ice Room and the warm Kaamos Room during your Icehotel stay. While the ice rooms deliver a one-of-a-kind Arctic chill experience, sleeping multiple nights at –7°C can be physically taxing. That’s where the Kaamos rooms come in—named after the mystical twilight period of winter in the far north. These cozy hotel rooms offer heated, cabin-style interiors with Scandinavian design touches, plush bedding, and en-suite bathrooms. Alternating nights gives guests the chance to warm up, recharge, and still enjoy all the Icehotel activities. This combination also provides flexibility for sunrise adventures, local Sami cultural visits, or husky sledding, without feeling weather-worn. Many travelers choose this mix to experience the thrill of a night on ice followed by restorative warmth, allowing for a longer and more balanced Arctic stay. It’s ideal for couples, families, and first-time cold climate adventurers seeking both novelty and practicality. Whether you start cold and end warm—or vice versa—this pairing delivers the full spectrum of Lapland’s magic. Booking the dual-room experience also helps secure availability during peak Northern Lights season, offering travelers the best of both Arctic extremes under one roof.
Chase the Northern Lights from Frozen River Torne – prime skywatching right outside
Just steps from your room, the frozen surface of the Torne River becomes an ideal viewing stage for the elusive Northern Lights. With little light pollution and expansive open skies, this area in Jukkasjärvi is considered one of the top spots in Sweden for aurora sightings. Between December and March, the dark Arctic nights provide a high chance to catch green, purple, or even red auroras dancing overhead. Guests can wrap up in provided thermal suits and trek a few meters onto the river ice, where hotel staff often set up benches, reindeer pelts, and warming fires. The silence and stark beauty of the river contrast perfectly with the vibrant sky show. No need for long bus rides or treks—this sky theater is visible right outside your door. For photography enthusiasts, the flat terrain offers unobstructed 360° horizons, perfect for long exposures or wide-angle aurora shots. Some opt for the Northern Lights photography class offered on-site to sharpen their skills. Whether it’s a fleeting glow or a full-blown spectacle, viewing the auroras from the Icehotel grounds remains one of the most rewarding and accessible experiences of Arctic Sweden’s winter magic.
Take an Ice Sculpting Class on-site – master pieces under expert guidance
Hands-on creativity meets frozen artistry during the Icehotel’s daily ice sculpting workshops. Led by experienced ice artists who help build the hotel itself, these sessions allow guests to carve their own small-scale masterpieces from solid blocks of Torne River ice. Held in a specially designed carving room equipped with sculpting tools, heated lighting, and guided instruction, this activity offers more than just a fun diversion—it’s a true introduction to the ice artistry that defines the hotel’s magic. Participants start with simple shapes before moving into free-form designs. Many guests take photos with their final pieces or even give them as frozen gifts to their travel companions. The tools provided are beginner-friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxed but inspiring. Sessions last around two hours and are suitable for all skill levels, making them perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers. You’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for the precision and patience it takes to create the suites you sleep in. This workshop is available year-round at Icehotel 365, giving visitors a taste of Arctic craftsmanship, no matter the season. Booking ahead is advised, as this unique experience tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak winter months.
End Day with Jukkasjärvi Sauna Ritual – hot-cold therapy in Arctic style
Thermal contrast is a cherished part of Arctic culture, and nowhere is it more immersive than the Jukkasjärvi Sauna Ritual. Set along the river near the Icehotel, this experience blends centuries-old Nordic tradition with pristine Swedish wilderness. The ritual begins with warming up in a classic wood-fired sauna, where heat permeates the body and opens pores. After several rounds, guests step directly into the snow or plunge into an ice hole carved into the frozen Torne River. This extreme shift activates circulation, invigorates the body, and boosts mental clarity. Following the dip, a gentle return to the sauna promotes deep relaxation. Many guests repeat this cycle multiple times before concluding the session with herbal tea in a candle-lit warming hut. The ritual is deeply rooted in local custom and is said to cleanse both body and spirit. Towels, thermal robes, and guides are all provided, making it accessible even to first-timers. Whether you’ve just finished an aurora excursion or want to recover from a long travel day, this sauna tradition provides the perfect reset. For those seeking authentic wellness tied to the land and climate, few experiences in Lapland are as restorative and culturally rich.
Dinner in the Icebar on Ice Glasses – unique dining and drinking backdrop
Dining at Icehotel’s Icebar is an immersive experience where every element—from the furniture to the drinking glasses—is made of crystal-clear river ice. This sub-zero venue isn’t just a bar; it’s a curated art installation where design and temperature play equal roles. Guests sip Arctic-inspired cocktails from hand-carved ice glasses while seated on frozen benches covered in reindeer hides. For those seeking a full meal, the Ice Menu delivers courses served on custom ice platters or paired with frozen garnishes, all within the frosty ambiance of lit-up sculpted walls. The vibe is both surreal and festive, enhanced by chilled music and ambient blue lighting. A short walk from the suites, the Icebar operates on timed entries to control temperature and preserve the structure, making reservations recommended during high season. Bartenders share insights on how the ice is harvested, stored, and shaped—offering a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship. While the temperature inside averages –5°C, thermal capes and gloves are provided, allowing guests to linger comfortably. This one-of-a-kind setting offers more than a photo op; it’s a frozen celebration of Lapland’s artistry and innovation. Whether for a romantic drink or a group celebration, the Icebar promises a dining memory like no other.
Get a Guided Tour Through Ice Church & Gallery – understand art and ceremony
A visit to the Icehotel isn’t complete without joining a guided tour through the Ice Church and Art Gallery, where frozen architecture meets spiritual symbolism. Rebuilt each winter by hand, the Ice Church serves as a functioning venue for weddings, blessings, and silent reflection. Its structure—vaulted ceilings, benches, altar—all carved entirely from Torne River ice and snow, radiates a serene and sacred stillness. Guides explain the design evolution, meaning behind motifs, and how couples from across the globe travel here to marry in Arctic tradition. Nearby, the Ice Gallery showcases rotating installations sculpted by global artists selected through competition. Each piece is thematically unique—some abstract, others symbolic—but all crafted using precision tools and sustainable harvesting methods. The tour provides background on the artists, construction process, and Icehotel’s history since its founding in 1989. It’s an educational and visually striking walk through what can only be described as a living, breathing museum of frozen imagination. Whether you’re curious about design or drawn to spiritual architecture, this guided experience offers both depth and discovery. Tours run daily in multiple languages and are included for overnight guests, making it one of the most enriching and inspiring ways to engage with the Icehotel’s legacy.
Sled with Huskies or Ride Snowmobiles Nearby – adventure meets convenience
Adrenaline and Arctic scenery come together when you book a husky sled ride or snowmobile tour just outside Icehotel’s doorstep. These high-energy excursions take guests deep into Lapland’s snow-covered forests and frozen lakes, offering unmatched access to Sweden’s winter wilderness. The husky experience begins with meeting your excited dog team, often Siberian or Alaskan huskies, followed by instruction on mushing basics. Depending on the route, you can either drive your own sled or ride as a passenger. Expect crisp winds, endless white horizons, and the rhythmic sound of paws against packed snow. Snowmobile tours provide faster-paced travel, ideal for thrill-seekers or those wanting to cover longer distances, including remote cabins or aurora hunting zones. Both options are guided and include safety gear, thermal suits, and warm refreshments. Most tours are designed to fit within a half or full day, making them perfect companions to your Icehotel stay. These activities are family-friendly and don’t require prior experience. Booking ahead ensures availability, especially during peak aurora season. Whether you prefer gliding silently behind dogs or roaring across the tundra on a snow machine, these Arctic adventures deliver unforgettable landscapes and a deeper connection to Lapland’s natural rhythm.
Lapland Spring Horseback Aurora Safari – combine wilderness with sky magic
One of the lesser-known but awe-inspiring ways to witness the aurora is on horseback during a spring safari through the birch forests of Lapland. Available during late winter and early spring, this guided experience departs from stables near the Icehotel and follows quiet trails under twilight skies. As temperatures become milder and snow begins to soften, the chances of comfortable riding under northern lights improve. Icelandic horses, known for their calm temperament and smooth gait, carry riders through pristine paths untouched by motor noise. The pace is relaxed, ideal for photography and skywatching. Riders are provided with warm gear and blankets, and guides adjust the pace based on group experience. Along the way, short breaks offer chances to sip hot lingonberry juice or warm broth beside a fire, enhancing the magic of the experience. Unlike snowmobiles or huskies, this mode of travel allows for a silent communion with the wilderness. While aurora visibility can’t be guaranteed, the ride itself is worth it—offering intimacy with nature few ever experience. This safari appeals to adventure lovers, equestrians, and photographers alike, and adds a poetic layer to your Icehotel itinerary that’s often overlooked in more conventional Lapland excursions.
Capture Architect-led Photo Walks in Suites – beauty framed by frozen design
Understanding the intricate design behind each Icehotel suite becomes more enriching when guided by the architects themselves during a dedicated photo walk. These curated sessions are ideal for photography lovers who want to explore the subtleties of frozen design—from how light refracts through carved surfaces to how texture enhances shadow depth. Each suite is uniquely themed and built with a precise blend of hand-carved snow and harvested ice, resulting in spaces that behave like light sculptures. Architects explain the inspiration, tools used, and techniques involved in shaping these ephemeral rooms. As you move between suites, you’ll learn how color filters, strategic lighting, and natural air flows are used to enhance the visual experience. Participants are encouraged to capture wide shots, macro textures, and even time-lapses. Whether using a smartphone or a DSLR, this walk reveals angles and perspectives that may otherwise be missed. These tours usually take place in the quieter morning hours to ensure minimal crowd interference. With the artists present, every corner becomes a story, and every click captures more than a scene—it captures vision in ice. Booking this experience adds a rare, behind-the-scenes dimension to your visit, combining creative insight with photographic magic.
Book a Day-trip to Icehotel 365 Exhibition – permanent ice art, any season
Unlike the seasonal Icehotel, which melts away each spring, Icehotel 365 offers a year-round version of the frozen experience. Housed in a solar-powered, temperature-controlled structure, this permanent installation preserves suites, an Icebar, and exhibition spaces carved from solid ice blocks—even during summer. The building’s ingenious cooling technology makes it possible to walk through glittering hallways and view intricate sculptures no matter the weather outside. Day-trippers can book guided tours that explain the sustainable architecture behind this innovation and the creative process behind each room. Each suite inside Icehotel 365 is artist-designed and includes dramatic themes ranging from abstract geometry to Nordic mythology. The lighting is meticulously curated to mimic winter ambiance, allowing guests to feel the seasonal mood even in the warmth of July. This makes it an excellent alternative for travelers visiting outside peak aurora months or those who prefer mild temperatures. Located next to the original Icehotel site in Jukkasjärvi, this exhibition is easily accessible and included in many package bookings. Whether you’re short on time or visiting in summer, Icehotel 365 ensures that you don’t miss out on the enchantment of sleeping in—or simply walking through—an Arctic ice palace that never disappears.
Enjoy Wilderness Dinner Under Northern Lights – epic feast in silent snow
Dining beneath an aurora-lit sky in the Arctic wilderness offers a memory unlike any other. This exclusive culinary experience begins with a guided snowmobile or sleigh ride into a remote forest clearing far from any light pollution. Once there, guests are greeted by the flickering warmth of a traditional fire pit, surrounded by snow-carved seating and glowing lanterns. A multi-course dinner of locally sourced dishes—often including Arctic char, cloudberries, or reindeer stew—is prepared on-site by a private chef or experienced wilderness guide. Vegetarian options are available by request. Throughout the evening, the sky often lights up with swirling green and violet Northern Lights, creating a surreal, immersive atmosphere that feels both ancient and magical. This experience isn’t just about food; it’s about immersion in place, season, and silence. Warm clothing, boots, and blankets are provided to ensure comfort, and some packages include storytelling or live Sámi music. Available in winter and early spring, these dinners are limited in group size to preserve intimacy and minimize noise. Booking in advance is highly recommended due to weather dependency and demand. For couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking something unforgettable, this wilderness feast delivers soul-deep connection wrapped in firelight and sky magic.
Sleep in -7 °C in Expedition Sleeping Bag & Furs – bundled comfort solution
A night inside the Icehotel’s frozen rooms sounds extreme, but with the right gear and preparation, it becomes surprisingly comfortable—even at –7 °C. Each guest is provided with a high-quality expedition-grade sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures, along with a fleece liner for added insulation. The bed itself is constructed from a sturdy ice base topped with a thick mattress and layered reindeer furs, which help trap warmth. Before bedtime, guests store all electronics and clothes in warm lockers, change into thermal base layers, and receive instructions on the best way to seal and position themselves inside the bag for maximum heat retention. Staff members perform a nightly check-in and offer wake-up calls with hot lingonberry juice the next morning. The dry cold of Lapland makes the environment feel less biting than expected, and most guests report sleeping deeply once acclimated. The silence is profound—no humming machines, no street noise, only the occasional crackle of ice. For many, this sleep becomes the highlight of their journey, proving that even in a frozen room, warmth and rest are fully attainable. It’s a cozy paradox: surrounded by ice, wrapped in fur, and lulled into Arctic dreams.
Visit Sami Culture & Reindeer Farm Nearby – immerse in indigenous heritage
Just beyond the Icehotel lies a living connection to the Sámi people, the indigenous community of Arctic Scandinavia. A visit to a traditional Sámi reindeer farm provides a rare opportunity to learn about this culture’s rich traditions, storytelling, and deep bond with nature. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into a lavvu (cone-shaped tent) warmed by open fire, where Sámi hosts share ancestral knowledge, joik songs, and tales of seasonal migrations. The experience often includes hands-on interaction—feeding or walking with reindeer through snowy enclosures and learning how they are integral to Sámi survival and identity. Cultural artifacts such as handwoven textiles, wooden carvings, and antler crafts are displayed and explained in depth. Guests can even try reindeer stew cooked over flame or sip warm birch sap tea. Tours typically run half-day and can be booked through Icehotel or local agencies. What sets this apart is its authenticity: these are not staged performances, but real people sharing living traditions. For travelers seeking cultural depth alongside nature, this visit offers a grounded and respectful window into Arctic heritage—an essential complement to the Icehotel’s visual splendor. It’s a journey into a people’s resilience and spirit that echoes long after the snow melts.
Choose Icebreak & Stay+Stay Packages for Best Value – smart, convenient booking
Navigating the various offerings at Icehotel can be overwhelming, but choosing bundled packages like “Icebreak” or “Stay+Stay” simplifies the process and maximizes value. The Icebreak package typically includes one night in an Art Suite, one night in a warm Kaamos Room, breakfast, sauna access, and a guided tour. This combination provides both the thrill of sleeping in an ice room and the comfort of a heated night, without needing to book each element separately. Meanwhile, Stay+Stay options are designed for guests who want a longer or more immersive experience—often including activity add-ons like aurora safaris, ice sculpting workshops, or snowmobile adventures. Both options are ideal for first-time visitors or those booking during peak winter when availability is tight. They often include priority access to high-demand time slots and eliminate the hassle of separate bookings for meals, clothing rentals, and excursions. Additionally, bundled pricing can result in significant savings compared to à la carte rates. Travelers are also less likely to miss out on popular experiences when using pre-set itineraries. For a smooth, well-rounded Arctic adventure that balances novelty, rest, and exploration, these curated packages provide convenience without sacrificing authenticity.