Explore the Icehotel, Day Trip from Abisko

Exploring the Icehotel, Day Trip from Abisko: A Cool Adventure in Swedish Lapland

If you’re planning a trip to Swedish Lapland, a visit to the famous Icehotel is high on the list—and for good reason. This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into one of the most spectacular ice structures in the world, all in about seven hours. While it’s not a full-day extravaganza, it packs enough wonder, artistry, and Arctic charm to make it worth the trip.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines stunning visuals with insightful commentary, thanks to knowledgeable guides. Plus, the fact that transportation, entrance, and a guided tour are included means you get a lot of value without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that warm clothing isn’t included, so you’ll need to come prepared. This trip is ideal if you’re after a short but memorable visit to the Icehotel, especially if you’re based in Abisko or Björkliden and want to experience something extraordinary without committing to a multi-day stay.

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip transportation from Abisko/Björkliden makes it easy to visit without logistical headaches.
• The guided tour provides insight into the hotel’s design and construction, enriching your visit.
• The Ice Bar stop offers a unique chance to enjoy a drink in an icy setting, making it memorable.
• Flexible options for dining and souvenirs at the hotel mean you can extend your experience if you wish.
• The small group size (up to 28 travelers) ensures a more intimate and friendly atmosphere.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before means you can plan with confidence.

An In-Depth Look at the Icehotel Day Trip

The Journey: From Abisko to the Icehotel

The adventure begins early, with pickup from your chosen meeting point in Abisko or Björkliden. The small-group setup (max 28 travelers) makes for a comfortable ride through the snow-covered mountains and forests of Swedish Lapland. This scenic drive is often one of the highlights—if you’re into Nordic landscapes, you’ll love the views on the way. Plus, the guides are quite adept at sharing interesting tidbits about the region, making the journey part of the experience.

The transportation is included, which is a big plus. It takes you directly to Jukkasjärvi, home of the world’s very first Icehotel. The trip takes around 7 hours round trip, giving you enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

The Icehotel: A Masterpiece of Ice Art

Once you arrive, you’ll receive your entrance ticket—no hidden costs here—and step into a world crafted entirely from ice and snow. This hotel, rebuilt every year, is a showcase of artistic ingenuity. The individually sculpted Art Suites, Ice Rooms, and the Ice Church are breathtaking. Each room is like an individual art piece, often themed or designed by different artists, making every corner a new surprise.

Our favorite part of the tour is learning about how this incredible structure is created annually. Guides do a good job explaining the design and construction process, which adds depth to the visit. Seeing the intricate sculptures and detailed ice carvings is awe-inspiring, especially since they are constantly changing with each year’s theme.

The Ice Bar: Drinks in the Cold

One of the standout features of this tour is a visit to the Ice Bar. Here, you’ll enjoy a drink in a setting made entirely of ice. Whether you opt for a local beer, a cocktail, or a non-alcoholic beverage, it’s a chance to experience something pretty unique—the sensation of sipping a cold drink in the middle of an icy environment. Sara, one of the staff members, gets praise for her warm and friendly reception, making the visit even more enjoyable.

The Ice Bar isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a fun, immersive experience. You might find yourself marveling at the crystal-clear ice sculptures while trying to keep your hands warm.

Lunch and Souvenirs: Relax and Browse

After the ice exploration, you have the option to enjoy lunch at the Icehotel restaurant. The menu isn’t included in the tour price, but reviewers report that the food is decent and offers a cozy break from the cold. If you prefer, you can also just relax in the stylish bar area or browse the gift shop for souvenirs—perfect for remembering your Arctic adventure.

The Return Trip: A Scenic Farewell

After a few hours at the hotel, the bus heads back to Abisko or Björkliden, providing a relaxed end to the day. The guides often share more stories about the region and the natural beauty of Swedish Lapland, making the return journey just as engaging as the trip there.

How Does It Stack Up?

This tour isn’t about ticking a box; it’s about experiencing a truly unique Arctic marvel. The cost of around $160 per person seems quite fair when you think about what’s included—transportation, entry, and a guided overview—especially given the exclusivity of the Icehotel.

The reviews consistently highlight how knowledgeable guides elevate the experience, making complex ice art and hotel construction understandable and fascinating. Multiple travelers mention that the scenery is beautiful and that the Ice Bar staff go out of their way to make guests feel welcome.

However, a common factor to keep in mind is that warm clothing isn’t provided, which can be a dealbreaker if you’re unprepared for the cold. Most visitors recommend bringing layers, gloves, and a hat, especially if you want to linger outside or explore the hotel more extensively.

Who Is This Tour For?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a compact, well-organized visit to the Icehotel without spending multiple days in the area. It’s great for those interested in art, architecture, and Arctic landscapes. While not specifically geared toward families or children, the tour’s relaxed pace and engaging guides make it suitable for most travelers with an interest in unique experiences.

If you’re short on time but still eager to see one of the world’s most iconic ice structures, this is a solid choice. It also suits travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to learn about the building process and artistic elements behind the hotel.

Final Thoughts

This Icehotel day trip offers a beautiful blend of natural scenery, Arctic artistry, and cultural insight. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and an unforgettable ice experience, it represents good value for the price—and a chance to see something truly extraordinary.

While it’s a shorter visit and doesn’t include warm clothing, most travelers find it to be a worthwhile and memorable adventure. It’s especially suited for those who want a taste of Lapland’s icy magic without the commitment of an overnight stay.

If you’re fascinated by ice art, unique architecture, or simply want to add a cool story to your trip, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Do I need to bring warm clothing?
Yes, warm clothing isn’t included, so bringing layers, gloves, and a hat is recommended to stay comfortable during your visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally open to most travelers, it’s important to consider the cold environment of the Icehotel and whether children can handle outdoor winter conditions comfortably.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time at the hotel.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers round-trip transportation from Abisko/Björkliden, the entrance ticket to the Icehotel, and a guided tour of the hotel and art installations.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to purchase souvenirs at the hotel, making it easy to take home a piece of this icy wonderland.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included but can be bought at the restaurant if you wish to eat on-site.

How many people are in the group?
The tour has a maximum of 28 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

If you’re craving a one-of-a-kind Arctic experience and want to see the Icehotel without committing to an overnight stay, this trip from Abisko offers enough magic, scenery, and insight to make it a memorable part of your Lapland adventure.