❄️ Winter holidays and ice hotels in Norway: tips and recommendations
Norway in winter is like something out of a fairy tale. You can spend the night in an ice hotel, see the northern lights and have an unforgettable experience. Ice hotels with unique interiors, ice bars and bedrooms covered with reindeer skins offer a special holiday experience that you will never forget.
In this article, you will learn about the most popular ice hotels in Norway, how much they cost, what they are like, and how to book them in advance during the Northern Lights season.
❄️ What makes the Sorrisniva Ice Hotel in Alta special?
Every year, the Sorrisniva ice hotel is rebuilt from snow and ice. It has a unique theme and amazing ice sculptures. Guests sleep on beds made of ice in special sleeping bags that keep them warm. They can also take part in Arctic activities like dog sledding and tours to see the northern lights. There is even a bar where you can get drinks in ice glasses. This place is perfect for making memories and taking unique photos.

❄️ How much does a night in an ice hotel in Norway cost?
The cost of a night in ice hotels such as Sorrisniva in Alta or Snowhotel Kirkenes varies from 200 to 500 euros per person per night, depending on the season and the package. The most expensive time to visit is during the Northern Lights season (December–February). Even though it's expensive, it's worth trying at least once for a memorable experience.
❄️ What are the features of ice hotels in Norway?
If you stay in an ice hotel, you will spend the night in a room made of ice and snow. The temperature is about -4°C. Guests sleep in special sleeping bags that keep them warm, on beds covered with reindeer skins. There are always warm rooms with hot showers, saunas and relaxation areas nearby. Breakfast and trips to the Arctic are often included in the price.
❄️ What makes an ice hotel a comfortable place to sleep?
You will be comfortable in an ice hotel if you bring special insulated sleeping bags, reindeer skins and thermal underwear. The hotel is kept at a temperature of -4°C, so it is important to dress warmly but not in too many layers. There are warm rooms with saunas, showers and relaxation areas nearby so that guests can warm up and relax.

❄️ Where in Norway can you find the most popular ice hotels?
The most popular ice hotels are located in northern Norway: There are three places to visit: the Snowhotel Kirkenes in Kirkenes, the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel in Alta and the Tromsø Ice Domes near Tromsø. These places have unique ice designs, activities and comfortable conditions for viewing the northern lights.
❄️ Can you stay in an ice hotel in Norway in the summer?
Ice hotels are usually only open in winter (December–April). In summer, you can stay in special rooms with artificially kept temperatures that are a bit cooler, but this is rare. To get the full experience, it is better to plan your trip in winter.
❄️ How do I book a place to stay in advance for the Northern Lights season in Norway?
If you want to see the Northern Lights, book your accommodation for the season (September–March) at least 2–3 months in advance, especially if you are going to Tromsø, Alta or Lofoten.
Use Booking.com and Airbnb to find places to stay, and make sure you can cancel for free if you need to. Check for Northern Lights tours too, so you can be sure you'll be comfortable.
❄️ What are the benefits of glass igloos for seeing the Northern Lights?
Glass igloos (like the ones at Lyngen North or Aurora Borealis Observatory) let you watch the Northern Lights in comfort, as they have see-through walls and ceilings. The igloos are far from the lights of the city, so there is not much light pollution. This is perfect for seeing the northern lights from inside your igloo.

❄️ Which hotels in Alta are best for seeing the Northern Lights?
The Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, the Altafjord Gjestegaard and the Arctic Dome are all great places to stay if you want to see the Northern Lights in Alta.
Sorrisniva stands out for its ice interior, Altafjord Gjestegaard has cosy rooms with panoramic views, and Arctic Dome has unique dome-shaped cabins with see-through walls for comfortable viewing.
❄️ What makes a stay at the Aurora Borealis Observatory special?
The Aurora Borealis Observatory on the island of Senja was created for people who want to see the Northern Lights. The hotel offers rooms with large windows so you can enjoy the views, and also organises trips and provides professional guides. The hotel is perfect for people who love nature and want to see the Northern Lights in comfort.
A winter holiday in Norway's ice hotels and glass igloos is a unique and unforgettable experience. If you've always wanted to see the Northern Lights, or if you're just looking for something different to try, then come to Norway. We'll take care of everything so you can sit back and enjoy yourself.
Tell us about your winter holiday in Norway in the comments! Share your recommendations and impressions, and check out other articles on our blog to find even more ideas for your trip. ❄️🌌✨