Bergen: Magic Ice Bar Entry Ticket with Welcome Drink

Bergen: Magic Ice Bar Entry Ticket with Welcome Drink
Location: Vestland County, Norway
Country: Norway
Rating: 3.9 (92 reviews)
Price: $30 per person
Supplier: Magic North AS

Imagine stepping into a world of ice and art in Bergen, Norway, where the Arctic chill is part of the experience. For around $30, you get a ticket that grants access to a frosty gallery filled with sculptures inspired by Norwegian and international art, along with a welcome drink served in an ice glass. It’s a quick stop, roughly 30-45 minutes, making it a fun, atmospheric break amid sightseeing.

What we like most is the impressive ice sculptures—designed with details that capture the eye—and the unique chance to sip a drink in an ice glass, which makes for a memorable photo and conversation starter. Also, the provision of warm ponchos and gloves helps keep the cold manageable, allowing you to enjoy the experience without shivering too much.

A possible drawback? The small size and limited sculptures might leave some visitors wishing for more variety or a larger space. Reviews also mention that the cold can be intense—some say you won’t want to stay more than 10 minutes—and a few found the overall atmosphere less lively than expected.

This experience suits travelers looking for a short, fun contrast to Bergen’s outdoor sights, especially if they enjoy art or novelty drinks. It’s great for those who want a quick, Instagram-worthy stop, but might not satisfy those seeking a large-scale exhibition or deep dive into ice art.

Key Points

• Unique Ice Art: Sculptures inspired by Norwegian and international artists create a visually interesting gallery.
• Ice Glass Drinks: Your included signature drink served in an ice glass is a fun, memorable highlight.
• Warm Gear Provided: Ponchos and gloves help you handle the sub-zero temperatures comfortably.
• Limited Space: The small size and few sculptures mean it’s a brief and compact experience.
• Time Consideration: Expect to spend around 10–15 minutes in the ice chamber, making it perfect for a quick stop.
• Age-Friendly: All ages are welcome, though those 18-30 might need ID for alcohol service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Magic Ice Bergen Experience

What’s Included and How It Works
For $30, you’re granted entry into a chilly gallery of ice sculptures. The experience begins as you arrive, greeted warmly and supplied with winter ponchos and gloves—essential gear to stay warm in the sub-zero environment. We found that these clothing essentials are well-chosen; they make a big difference in comfort, especially since the entire exhibition is built from crystal-clear ice.

First Impressions
Walking into Magic Ice Bergen, the first thing you notice is how beautifully lit the sculptures are, with LED lights adding a dramatic glow to the icy figures. The sculptures are inspired by famous works—some depict Norwegian artists like Edvard Grieg—adding a cultural touch that resonates with fans of Norwegian art and music.

The Art and Atmosphere
The sculptures, though limited in number, are intricate and detailed. One reviewer commented that the sculptures were really impressive but there weren’t enough—a common sentiment. Still, the craftsmanship is clear, and the lighting enhances the crystal clarity of the ice. It’s not just a photo op; it’s an opportunity to appreciate the skill involved in carving ice.

The music and LED lighting contribute to a slightly surreal, gallery-like ambiance. However, since the space is small, some visitors find the atmosphere lacks a lively vibe—more of a quiet, contemplative environment than a bustling bar scene.

The Signature Ice Drink
One of the main attractions is sipping your welcome drink in an ice glass. According to reviews, this is often a tasty cocktail or wine, adding a special touch to the visit. That said, a reviewer noted that their drink was served in a plastic glass rather than ice as advertised, which might be disappointing if you’re expecting the full ice experience from start to finish.

Practical Tips
– The last entrance is 30 minutes before closing, so plan to arrive early if you want enough time.
– The cold can be intense—most visitors stay about 10 minutes—and some recommend preparing with warm clothing beyond the poncho, especially if you’re sensitive to cold.
– Since the experience is short, it’s perfect as a tasty, cool contrast during a longer day of Bergen sightseeing.

Reviews and Real Experiences
While many enjoyed the novelty—Salvatore called it “a once-in-a-lifetime experience”—others found it lacking in size or atmosphere. Franky was disappointed, mentioning the lack of atmosphere and sculptures and questioning the value for money, feeling it was not the best ice bar experience he’s had.

Who Should Consider This?
If you’re in Bergen and looking for a brief, fun activity that’s different from the city’s natural beauty, this is a good pick. It’s also suitable for families or couples wanting a quirky photo opportunity. However, if you’re expecting a large-scale ice exhibition or a lively bar scene, you might be left wanting more.

Why the Experience Matters to Travelers

This tour offers more than just cold temperatures; it’s a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship of ice sculpture and enjoy a fun, interactive drink. For a modest price, you get an atmospheric environment with lighting and music that turn ice into art. It’s a quick dose of wonder—perfect for those who want a lighthearted, memorable detour from Bergen’s outdoor adventures.

The provision of warm clothing is practical and shows good planning, helping you tolerate the cold for a few minutes of fun. The small size and limited sculptures mean it’s not an all-day affair, but that’s actually an advantage for travelers with tight schedules or those who prefer short, impactful experiences.

Keep in mind, the ice glasses and sculptures are the main draw, so if you’re into art, photography, or novelty drinks, this will appeal. But if you’re seeking a deeper or larger-scale ice adventure, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

In the end, Magic Ice Bergen is a quirky, short-lived experience that brings Norway’s icy landscape into an artful, slightly kitschy setting. It’s best suited for curious travelers looking for something different during a Bergen trip—particularly those interested in art, photography, or quirky bar experiences. The included welcome drink and the visual spectacle make it worth considering as a quick highlight, especially if you’re in Bergen during the colder months or on a tight schedule.

While the size and atmosphere may not impress everyone, the craftsmanship of the sculptures and the ice glass drink are memorable touches. Just remember to dress warmly, go in with modest expectations, and enjoy this fleeting, frosty adventure.

FAQ

How long is the experience?
Most visitors spend around 10-15 minutes inside, enough to see the sculptures, enjoy the lighting, and sip the drink.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, all ages are welcome. However, young adults aged 18-30 might need to show ID for alcohol service.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID and dress warmly. The ponchos and gloves provided help, but layering is recommended.

Can I buy extra drinks at the bar?
Yes, additional drinks are available, but they are not included in the ticket price.

Is the experience worth the price?
That depends on your interests. If you enjoy art, novelty drinks, and short fun experiences, yes. Some reviews suggest the sculptures and space are limited for the price.

What if I want a bigger or more lively ice bar?
You might find this experience more intimate than lively. For a larger or more energetic scene, consider other attractions or bars in Bergen.

This review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect and help you decide if Magic Ice Bergen fits your travel style. Whether you’re a dedicated art lover or just after a fun photo, this icy stop has its charms—just don’t expect a sprawling ice kingdom.