Welcome to a frozen world full of magic and creativity, Lykkers! Ice hotels are not just places to sleep – they are works of art built entirely from ice and snow, offering a breathtaking and sustainable winter experience.
Crafted each season, these structures melt away with spring, leaving no waste behind. From the Alps to the Arctic Circle and beyond, here’s your guide to the coolest stays in Europe!
Dolomites
Video: Rick Steves' Europe
Magical Nights in Italy
Dolomiti Igloo Village – Misurina, Veneto
Near Lake Misurina, this village features beautifully carved ice rooms with indoor temperatures kept slightly above freezing thanks to snow’s insulation. Guests can book romantic dinners by candlelight, enjoy an ice bar welcome, and even take part in igloo-building lessons.
Open from December to early April, a night here starts from €160 per person.
Spirit Igloo Village – Piancavallo, Friuli Venezia Giulia
This village offers 20 snow domes accessible after a scenic cable car ride and a snowshoe hike. The effort is rewarded with a serene retreat surrounded by untouched mountain landscapes. Open December to March, the cost per night starts from €140.
Hotel Lac Salin Spa & Mountain Resort – Livigno, Lombardy
In the park of this mountain resort sit two artistic snow chalets crafted by local artist Vania Cusini. Located at 1,800 meters altitude, they provide a peaceful and creative snow-bound stay. Available from late December to mid-March, prices start around €180 per night.
Frozen Masterpieces in Scandinavia
Icehotel – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Open all year, this is one of the original and most iconic ice hotels. Featuring over 2,000 square meters of icy space, it showcases elaborate sculptures and themed suites. Each winter, new designs emerge. Prices start from around €210 per night.
Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel – Alta, Norway
Rebuilt annually with 250 tons of ice and thousands of cubic meters of snow, this hotel is a dreamlike base for Arctic activities. Guests can view the northern lights, ride with huskies, or just enjoy the quiet wilderness. Stays begin at approximately €350 per night. Open from mid-December to early April.
Lapland’s Hidden Winter Gems
Arctic Fox Igloos – Ranua, Finland
Located beside Lake Ranuanjärvi, these glass-roofed igloos come with private saunas and showers. They are ideal for aurora viewing in a silent, snowy landscape. Open from October to April, nightly rates start at €220.
Apukka Resort – Rovaniemi, Finland
About 18 km from Rovaniemi, Apukka offers glass igloo suites that allow guests to sleep under the stars in warmth. Though not entirely icy, these units blend high comfort with Arctic charm. Open from late September to mid-April, with prices starting at €200 per night.
Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos – Sinettä, Finland
Near Lake Lehtojärvi, this hotel includes 30 snow rooms and multiple themed areas, including an ice bar and dining space. Decorated with detailed ice art, it offers a magical setting. Open from December to March, with stays from €180.
Alpine Igloos in Austria
Iglu Village Kühtai – Kühtai, Tyrol
High in the Austrian Alps, this snow village provides guests with cozy igloos equipped for warmth and comfort. Facilities include hot showers and guided snow activities like golf on snow or husky sleigh rides.
A fondue dinner followed by marshmallow roasting by the fire completes the experience. Prices start from €145 per person per night, available December through March.
Fairytale Stays in Transylvania
Hotel of Ice – Făgăraș Mountains, Romania
This icy escape sits on a frozen lake, accessible via ski lift. Surrounded by forested peaks, it features family and deluxe snow domes. Guests can dine in a frozen hall with gourmet cuisine and relax in a frosty lounge.
The location is also known for special events and even winter ceremonies. Open late December to March, rooms start from €100 per night.
Stay Cool, Lykkers!
From Northern Europe ice hotels invite adventurous travelers to explore the frozen world in comfort and style. With eco-friendly designs, creative touches, and once-in-a-lifetime activities, these hotels promise a winter escape like no other. Embrace the chill, bundle up, and make your next vacation truly unforgettable!
