Magic Ice Lofoten
Step into a frosty wonderland at Magic Ice Lofoten, an enchanting ice bar and sculpture exhibition in Norway's stunning islands.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and cold
Magic Ice Lofoten
Best Time
Beat the crowds and cold
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a frosty wonderland at Magic Ice Lofoten, an enchanting ice bar and sculpture exhibition in Norway's stunning islands.
"It's a tourist trap, but interesting nonetheless. Very expensive for what it is, but how many ice bars have you been to?"
🧥 Thermal Gear Provided
Don't worry about the cold! They provide thermal cloaks and gloves.
⏱️ Short & Sweet Visit
Expect to spend only 15-30 minutes inside; it gets very cold!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Ice Sculptures
Main exhibition hall
Marvel at detailed sculptures, often themed around Vikings and Norse mythology.
The Thrilling Ice Slide
Designated slide area
Experience a fun, albeit brief, ride down a slippery ice slide.
A Frosty Cocktail
The ice bar
Sip on a complimentary drink served in an ice glass.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chill: What to Expect at Magic Ice Lofoten
Timing is Everything for Your Arctic Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Thermal Gear Provided
Don't worry about the cold! They provide thermal cloaks and gloves.
⏱️ Short & Sweet Visit
Expect to spend only 15-30 minutes inside; it gets very cold!
💰 Pricey but Fun
It's a bit expensive for the time spent, but a unique experience.
🧊 Drinks in Ice Cups
Enjoy your included drink served in a glass made of ice.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Thermal Gear Provided
Don't worry about the cold! They provide thermal cloaks and gloves.
⏱️ Short & Sweet Visit
Expect to spend only 15-30 minutes inside; it gets very cold!
💰 Pricey but Fun
It's a bit expensive for the time spent, but a unique experience.
🧊 Drinks in Ice Cups
Enjoy your included drink served in a glass made of ice.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Magic Ice Lofoten offers a unique, albeit brief, icy adventure with impressive sculptures and a fun slide. While many find it a memorable experience, particularly the novelty of an ice bar, some visitors feel it's overpriced for the short duration and limited offerings. The provided thermal gear is appreciated, but the intense cold limits the time spent inside.
"Stumbled upon this fun place on a July Havila cruise stop and glad we did! -5 centigrade met us with a blast of cold air (coats and gloves provided). A cold cocktail provided, and ice sculptures and an ice slide rounded out the exploration. About 20 euro admission each, which seemed steep at entrance but we laughed and chilled our way through it. Maybe stayed 30 minutes max (my partner insists it was only 15 before we were bone cold!). Hindsight says it was well worth it. Good memories."
David W
"The town of Svolvaer is on the Lofoten Island of Norway .
It is a very beautiful and touristy place with lots of sightseeing , hiking , seafood and ferry to Norway mainland .
Enjoyed the visit there and beautiful Marina with five star restaurants ."
Scott Harvath
"It was interesting because I'd never been to a place with lots of ice sculptures before. It is definitely a tourist trap, but interesting nonetheless. It's v.expensive for what it is, but then again how many ice bars have you been to?"
Dan B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Magic Ice Lofoten is located in Svolvær, the main town on the Lofoten Islands. You can reach Svolvær by ferry from mainland Norway or by flying into Leknes or Svolvær airports. The ice bar is centrally located within Svolvær, making it easily accessible on foot if you're staying in town.
Yes, Svolvær is served by local buses and ferries. If you are arriving by ferry or bus, the ice bar is a short walk from the main terminals in Svolvær.
Absolutely! Many cruise lines, like Hurtigruten and Havila, stop in Svolvær, and Magic Ice Lofoten is a popular attraction for cruise passengers. Some cruises may even offer it as an excursion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can be around 200 NOK (approx. 20 EUR), though discounts may be available, especially for cruise passengers. It's considered pricey by some visitors for the duration of the experience.
Your ticket typically includes a complimentary drink (usually a choice of wine or a non-alcoholic beverage) and the use of thermal cloaks and gloves to keep you warm inside the -5°C environment.
While not always strictly necessary, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season or if you're part of a group. This ensures you can enter at your preferred time.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on operating times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temperature inside Magic Ice Lofoten is maintained at a consistent -5°C (23°F). They provide thermal cloaks and gloves to help visitors stay comfortable.
Most visitors find that 15 to 30 minutes is sufficient to explore the ice sculptures and enjoy the ice slide. The cold temperatures limit the duration of the visit.
Yes, children can enjoy the ice sculptures and the ice slide. The novelty of being in a cold environment and sliding on ice is usually a hit with younger visitors.
Photography is generally allowed inside Magic Ice Lofoten. It's a great opportunity to capture unique shots of the ice sculptures and your frosty experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricately carved ice sculptures, the unique ice bar, and the ice slide offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capturing yourself in the provided thermal gear against the icy backdrop is also a must.
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography excessively, especially if it might affect the ice or other guests' experience.
Given the cold and potentially low light, a camera with good low-light performance is ideal. Consider using a wider aperture to let in more light and a slightly higher ISO if needed. A tripod can be helpful for sharper shots, but be mindful of the limited space and time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the cold can be intense, so plan for a shorter visit, perhaps 15-20 minutes, to ensure the kids (and adults!) don't get too uncomfortable. It's a great spot for a quick, memorable photo opportunity and a taste of Arctic fun.
💸 Budget Travelers
Look for potential discounts, such as those offered to cruise passengers, which can slightly offset the cost. The included drink is a small bonus that adds value to the admission fee.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Ice: Sculptures and Themes
The ephemeral nature of ice art means that the exhibits are constantly evolving. Each visit can offer a slightly different perspective or new creations. The cold environment is crucial for preserving these delicate works, allowing them to remain pristine for visitors to admire.
While the sculptures are the main draw, the overall theme contributes to the immersive experience. The combination of the icy surroundings, the thematic decor, and the chilled atmosphere creates a memorable and visually striking attraction.
Navigating the Cold: Comfort and Practicalities
Despite the provided gear, the visit is typically brief, lasting around 15 to 30 minutes. This duration is often dictated by how quickly visitors feel the chill. It's a place to experience intensely for a short period rather than linger for extended periods.
Visitors are advised to wear warm layers underneath their provided cloaks. While the cloaks offer significant protection, having warm socks and sturdy footwear can also enhance comfort. The quick nature of the visit means that planning your time inside is key to enjoying the experience without becoming uncomfortably cold.
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