From Abisko: Explore the Icehotel - The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

From Abisko: Explore the Icehotel

From Abisko: Explore the Icehotel
Location: Norrbotten County, Sweden
Price: $156 per person
Duration: 7 hours
Rating: 4.3/5 (based on 15 reviews)
Supplier: Lights Over Lapland

A Glimpse into the Icehotel Experience

This tour whisks you away from the snowy wilderness of Abisko into the heart of Swedish Lapland to visit the world-famous ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi. For about $156, you get a full day’s adventure blending scenic travel, icy artistry, and Arctic culture. The journey kicks off with a pickup from your hotel—either in Abisko or Björkliden—and a scenic drive through mountains and forests that highlight Sweden’s winter wonderland.

Once you arrive, you’ll gain access to the Icehotel, where a self-guided tour reveals rooms sculpted from ice that look like they belong to a fairy tale. You’ll love marveling at the art suites—each one a unique masterpiece—and the Ice Church, often a highlight for its intricate carvings and spiritual atmosphere. Afterwards, you’re invited to sip a drink in the Ice Bar, served in an ice glass, which makes for a memorable photo and a cool refreshment.

What we find particularly appealing is the blend of artistry and Arctic atmosphere, plus the opportunity for a genuine cultural encounter with the Sami reindeer herders and the chance to enjoy the peaceful wilderness camp. The tour’s flexibility also allows you to combine this trip with airport transfers, making it a practical choice if your travel plans are ending in Kiruna.

A possible consideration is the timing—many reviews mention that the time at the Icehotel can feel a little rushed, especially if you want to explore every sculptural detail or relax over lunch. It’s a short 7-hour trip, so if you’re craving hours to wander and soak in the environment, this may feel hurried.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate art, culture, and unique landscapes. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of Arctic Sweden’s magic without a prolonged stay, especially since it works well on the last day of your trip or as a scenic day trip from Abisko.

Key Points

From Abisko: Explore the Icehotel - Key Points

  • Stunning Art: Marvel at unique ice sculptures, suites, and the Ice Church.
  • Convenient Location: Close enough for a day trip, with easy access to Kiruna Airport.
  • Cultural Insights: Opportunity to learn about Arctic traditions and Sami culture.
  • Memorable Sips: Enjoy a drink in the icebar, served in a glass made of ice.
  • Scenic Drive: Ride through breathtaking mountain and forest landscapes.
  • Flexible Options: Can be combined with airport transfers or other activities.
You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review: Visiting the Icehotel from Abisko

From Abisko: Explore the Icehotel - In-Depth Review: Visiting the Icehotel from Abisko

The Itinerary and Transport

The day begins with a pick-up from your hotel—either in Abisko or Björkliden—at around 9:00-9:30 AM. The journey to Jukkasjärvi is scenic, taking you through the snow-covered forests and rugged mountains that define this part of Swedish Lapland. This drive alone is worth the trip, giving you a taste of the Arctic wilderness and setting the mood for what’s to come.

The journey lasts about two hours, and during this time, you might find yourself chatting with your guide or simply soaking in the stunning scenery. According to reviews, the transportation is well-organized and on time, which is crucial in winter travel where delays can happen. One traveler noted that they appreciated the good schedule, especially since it allowed catching their train back home.

Arrival at the Icehotel

Once at the Icehotel, the excitement kicks in. You receive your entrance tickets and are free to explore at your own pace. The self-guided nature of the tour is a plus for those who prefer to linger over the details rather than rushing through. You’ll see the Art Suites, each a different masterpiece of ice sculpture, with intricate carvings and unique themes.

The Ice Church is another highlight—often beautifully lit and surprisingly warm inside given the environment. Many visitors find it awe-inspiring to see such craftsmanship and creativity displayed in frozen form. As one reviewer put it, “Marvel at the amazing individually sculpted Art Suites, Ice Rooms and Ice Church,” and indeed, it’s a visual feast.

The Ice Bar and Refreshments

No visit is complete without a stop at the Ice Bar, where drinks are served in glasses made of ice. It’s a fun, surreal experience, and many travelers enjoy the novelty of sipping a cocktail in a chilly environment that’s maintained at -5°C. Just a heads-up—drinks and snacks are extra, and you’ll want to wear warm clothing, hats, and gloves as the temperature inside stays low.

Lunch and Shopping

After exploring, you can choose to have lunch at the Icehotel’s restaurant or relax with a coffee at the stylish bar. There’s also the option to browse souvenirs, which makes for excellent keepsakes or gifts. The overall atmosphere is quite cozy despite the frigid environment—something we personally love about these Arctic venues.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a visual feast of ice art and a taste of Arctic culture in just one day. It’s ideal for those with limited time but still eager to see one of Sweden’s most iconic sights. It’s also good for families, as the minimum age is 5 years, and children tend to enjoy the whimsical ice sculptures and the novelty of the icebar.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews mention that the time at the Icehotel can feel too short, especially if you’re eager to explore every detail or enjoy a leisurely meal. The tour’s 7-hour limit means you might need to prioritize what you want to see most. Also, the guide’s role seems to be mainly logistical, with some visitors wishing for more storytelling or insight during the journey.

Value for Money

At $156 per person, this experience offers a good balance of scenery, culture, and artistry. It’s a convenient way to check off the Icehotel from your bucket list without the need for an overnight stay. The inclusion of transportation and entrance ticket makes it straightforward, and the optional add-ons like lunch or drinks are manageable costs.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

From Abisko: Explore the Icehotel - The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re looking for a short and sweet Arctic adventure that combines scenic travel with a visit to one of the world’s most famous ice hotels, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want a snapshot of Swedish Lapland’s icy artistry and might have limited time. The tour’s ease of access and the chance to explore at your own pace make it attractive for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to tick off a bucket-list destination.

That said, if you crave more time to explore or want in-depth guided commentary, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Still, the stunning visuals, friendly organization, and cultural touches make it well worth considering for a day of Arctic wonder.

FAQ

From Abisko: Explore the Icehotel - FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included but can be purchased at the Icehotel restaurant for an extra cost.

Can I buy drinks at the Icebar?
Yes, drinks are available for purchase, and they are served in glasses made of ice, which adds to the fun.

What should I wear?
You’ll need warm clothes, hats, gloves, and insulated winter boots since the inside of the Icehotel stays at about -5°C.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and above are welcome, and the environment can be quite enchanting for young visitors.

How long is the drive to the Icehotel?
The scenic drive takes approximately two hours each way, giving you a glimpse of the Swedish Lapland landscape.

What’s the duration of the visit?
You’ll have about 2-3 hours at the Icehotel, which some travelers find a little short, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
The information doesn’t specify, so check with the provider if needed, especially since the environment involves icy surfaces.

Can I visit the Icehotel year-round?
Yes, with the ICEHOTEL 365, visitors can experience the icy environment all year, including the Ice Bar, which is part of the permanent complex.

What is the best time of year to visit?
The tour runs during winter when the Icehotel is fully constructed and at its most spectacular, typically from December through March.

This tour offers a wonderful slice of Arctic magic, blending art, culture, and nature into a memorable day. Whether you’re an art lover, a curious traveler, or simply seeking a cool adventure, the Icehotel from Abisko promises a uniquely chilly experience worth sharing.

You can check availability for your dates here: