Levi: Snow Village Guided Tour

If you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland trip to Lapland, a visit to the Snow Village in Levi might just be one of the highlights. While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and scouted the details to help you decide if it’s right for you. This experience promises a glimpse into a world made entirely of snow and ice, with impressive sculptures, an ice hotel, and a cozy lunch. It’s a classic trip for those wanting to see the Arctic’s icy artistry up close.

What I really like about this tour is the emphasis on visual marvels—walking through corridors lined with intricate ice carvings and marveling at structures that look like they belong in a fairy tale. Plus, the included Lappish soup lunch is a warm, hearty touch in the middle of a frozen landscape. On the flip side, it’s a four-hour commitment, and the price of $180 per person might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget. But for travelers craving a memorable Arctic experience, especially those fascinated by craftsmanship and scenic views, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck.

If you’re someone who loves scenic, artistic, and atmospheric adventures—particularly in a winter setting—this guided tour can be a fantastic way to spend part of your trip. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy exploring unique environments, whether you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even on your own. Just keep in mind that drinks aren’t included, so if you’re partial to something warm, I’d suggest bringing some cash or enjoying a drink at your own expense.

• Stunning ice sculptures and architecture: Over 20 million kilograms of snow and 300,000 kg of ice are transformed into beautiful works of art.
• Guided experience: A guide in English makes sure you don’t miss the details and provides insight into the artistry behind the structures.
• Includes a hearty lunch: A traditional Lappish soup adds warmth and flavor amidst the icy sights.
• Pickup and convenience: Free pickup from multiple locations in Levi makes logistics easy, with timing well-organized.
• Worth the price for scenery lovers: While $180 might be on the higher side, the visual payoff and craftsmanship are significant.
• Potential for crowding: This popular attraction might get busy, especially during peak season, so booking in advance is wise.

Let’s talk about what you can expect when you sign up for this Snow Village Guided Tour in Levi. It’s designed to give you an overview of the icy artistry that makes this spot famous, plus a bit of local flavor with the included lunch.

The Journey to the Snow Village

The tour begins with pickup from designated locations around Levi—hotels like Levi Panorama, Arctic Nook, or Northern Lights Ranch, among others. This convenience is a big plus, especially after a chilly night or if you’re unfamiliar with local transport options. The pickups generally start 30 to 60 minutes before the scheduled tour time, so plan to be ready a little early. The exact pickup time is communicated the day before, which keeps things flexible, but you’ll want to be punctual to avoid missing the tour.

Once on board, the ride to Lainio (about 200 km north of the Arctic Circle) is comfortable, and the scenery along the way offers glimpses of Lapland’s stark, beautiful winter landscape. It’s a scenic drive that sets the mood for what’s to come.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Walking Through the Ice Hotel and Sculptures

The main attraction is the Ice Hotel and Chapel, where you’ll find elaborate sculptures, rooms, and corridors carved from ice. The craftsmanship here is quite impressive—each year, the team uses over 300,000 kilograms of ice to craft these intricate designs. The sculptures aren’t just big blocks; they’re detailed works of art, often depicting Nordic motifs or fantastical figures. You’ll love the way the light plays through the ice, creating shimmering, almost otherworldly effects.

The corridors and rooms offer plenty of photo opportunities, and it’s fascinating to see how the artists shape and carve the ice with such precision. Many reviews mention that the sculptures are stunning, and that wandering through the hotel feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

The Ice Chapel is a quiet, awe-inspiring spot—perfect for a moment of reflection or a memorable photo. The entire structure is a testament to Arctic ingenuity, and you’ll appreciate the effort that goes into maintaining it. Keep in mind that the temperature inside is quite cold, so dress warmly and wear layers—think thermal underwear and a good, insulated jacket. Gloves and a hat are also essential.

Exploring the Snow Village

Beyond the hotel, the entire Snow Village is full of snow and ice structures. You’ll stroll through corridors lined with detailed carvings and see snow sculptures that are both artistic and whimsical. It’s a place that invites awe but also invites you to take your time soaking in the details.

One review pointed out that “the best thing about this trip was our guide Alec,” who was “very friendly and gave us a lot of information about Finland and its people.” A knowledgeable guide can really enrich the experience, providing context beyond just admiring the sculptures. They can tell stories about the artists or share interesting facts about Lapland.

Lunch in the Arctic Environment

After exploring, you’ll settle down for the included Lappish soup lunch. This hearty meal is perfect for warming up after a cold walk. It’s described as delicious and satisfying—exactly what you need in such a frosty setting. Having a warm meal in the middle of an icy landscape adds a nice contrast and makes the tour feel well-rounded.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 4 hours, which is a reasonable chunk of time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The group size isn’t specified, but guided tours typically keep things manageable, allowing you to ask questions and get personal attention.

Price-wise, at $180 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but considering the craftsmanship, the guided experience, the transportation, and the included lunch, it offers good value—especially for those who love scenic, artistic, and unique winter experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits scenery and art lovers, those interested in Arctic culture, or travelers looking for a memorable winter highlight. It’s also good if you prefer guided walks with insightful commentary, making it easier to understand and appreciate the artistry. If you’re traveling with children, keep in mind the cold temperatures and the need for warm clothing.

This guided tour to Levi’s Snow Village offers a glimpse into a winter marvel that combines artistry, Arctic environment, and local culture. The stunning ice sculptures and beautifully carved hotel rooms are real highlights, and the lunch adds a cozy touch to the chilly day.

While the price might seem high, the experience delivers in visuals and craftsmanship, making it especially appealing for those who want a memorable Arctic excursion. The convenience of included pickup makes logistics straightforward, and the guide’s knowledge can deepen your appreciation of the sights.

If you’re intrigued by ice art, want to see a true winter wonderland, and enjoy a relaxed, guided experience, this tour is worth considering. It’s best for those who value scenic beauty and craftsmanship over adrenaline-pumping activities. Just remember to bundle up, and you’ll have a fantastic Arctic adventure.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup from several locations around Levi is included, and the process is organized well in advance. You’ll receive your exact pickup time the day before.

How long does the tour last? The tour runs for about 4 hours, giving you enough time to explore the snow and ice structures and enjoy the lunch without feeling rushed.

What should I wear? Dress warmly—thermal layers, an insulated jacket, gloves, and a hat are essential, as you’ll be outside and inside icy structures.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included in the tour price, so you might want to bring some cash for hot beverages or water if needed.

Is the tour suitable for children? While not specifically targeted at children, the experience is visually stunning and family-friendly, provided everyone dresses warmly.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this experience accessible for wheelchairs? Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for those with mobility needs to enjoy the sights.

What is the main attraction? The highlight is walking through the Ice Hotel and Chapel, marveling at the intricate sculptures and snow structures created by talented artists each year.

If you’re heading to Levi in winter and want a truly scenic, artistic, and atmospheric experience, this Snow Village tour offers a lovely way to spend part of your Arctic adventure. Just remember to dress warmly, book in advance, and prepare for a day filled with icy marvels.

You can check availability for your dates here: