Is the Magic Ice Bar in Tromsø Worth Your Money? (2026-2027)

Post overview: The Magic Ice Bar is a popular attraction in Tromsø and one that a lot of tourists buy a ticket for. But is it actually worth it? I have visited twice, and this post talks about what it’s like to visit Magic Ice Bar Tromsø… and whether or not I think it is worth adding to your itinerary.

I’m not going to lie, a few years ago… I was the Magic Ice Bar’s biggest hater. I have visited all of their locations in Norway (Svolvær, Bergen, and Tromsø) and the Reykjavik location. I didn’t like any of them.

However, I went back to Magic Ice Bar Tromsø on a recent trip and discovered it’s not so bad if you don’t go alone. While I am still not its biggest fan, the closure of the Tromsø Ice Domes for the 2026-2027 season has made me reconsider whether the Magic Ice Bar is worth it for those visiting Tromsø.

And my mind has changed a little.

I also came to terms with the fact that I am *gasp* not the Magic Ice Bar’s target market. But maybe you are…

In this post, I will discuss what the Magic Ice Bar in Tromsø is, as well as how to visit, things to know before you go, and more honest thoughts about whether or not it is worth your money.

If you have any questions, let me know in the comments! Thanks!

About Magic Ice Bar Tromsø

Tromsø’s Magic Ice Bar opened in June 2018 and is located at Kaigata 4 (really close to Prostneset). Inside the temperature-controlled room (around -10C/14F), you will see ice carvings everywhere, including some famous polar explorers.

There is also an ice bar where you will be given one of their signature cocktails made from Arctic crowberries, which is included in the price. There are other drinks available for purchase at the bar.

You’ll also be given a parka and gloves that you can put on before entering. I usually just wear my own clothing as I have never visited the Tromsø location in summer and was already dressed for the temperature.

You are free to hang around for a while, enjoy a drink, take some photos, and head out through their gift shop in case you want to take a souvenir home with you.

How to Visit (& Buy Tickets)

☀️ Summer opening hours (April 1 to October 31): daily from 2pm to 10pm (midnight on Fri/Sat)
❄️ Winter opening hours (November 1 to March 31): daily from 11am to 11pm (midnight on Fri/Sat)
📍 Location: Kaigata 4
➡️ Check ticket prices & availability

So, the Magic Ice Bar does allow drop-ins, but I wouldn’t encourage showing up without a ticket unless you’re looking at cruise ship schedules and can monitor foot traffic in Tromsø. I usually book a ticket kind of last-minute through GetYourGuide, a trusted partner of mine who has the best tickets and tours in Tromsø.

The reason I love GetYourGuide is that I can book all my tours and tickets in one place without having to insert my credit card into multiple sites for different tour providers.

Anyway… I recommend pre-booking your ticket if you’re super keen on visiting the Magic Ice Bar in Tromsø. If you are considering it as an option on your itinerary but not a must, maybe book at the last minute if they have open slots (they often do).

Once you have your ticket and a timeslot secured, you can show up, check in, and enter the ice bar!

Your ticket lasts for a day so you can stay inside as long as you’d like. Just know that you can’t reenter after you have activated your ticket.

Tips for Visiting Magic Ice Bar Tromsø

➡️ Dress warmly. Even though you will be given a parka and gloves, it is still cold inside! Make sure you have thick socks and thick shoes on your feet. If it is summer, it is worth packing a thick pair of socks with you if the Magic Ice Bar is on your bucket list.

➡️ Don’t bring stuff with you. I had bags with me last time and they had to keep them behind reception as there were no lockers I could use. I wish I had just dropped everything off in my hotel room.

➡️ Keep your gloves on! As soon as you let the cold enter into your hands, you’re done. Well, maybe not, but if you get too cold, you will have to leave, and that may make your ticket not as worth it depending on how long you were inside.

➡️ Bring a credit card inside. If you’re planning to purchase more drinks (second drink is discounted if you save your glass), you can do so with a credit card inside the Magic Ice Bar.

➡️ The floor can be sticky and slippery. People spill drinks down there, and the sugar makes everything pretty sticky. Do with that what you will.

Is the Magic Ice Bar Actually Worth Visiting?

Yes… and no. Depending on who you are. Here are some pros and cons that can help you determine that!

Pros

✅ The Tromsø Ice Domes are a no-go for the 2026-2027 season. I don’t know if they will ever be back. So this is your only chance to see a similar environment that has been sculpted by artists, etc. It has kind of upped the value of Magic Ice Bar Tromsø in my eyes.

✅ It’s good for kids. Kids under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, but it is a good little activity for them, especially if you’re visiting Tromsø in the off-season and other activities are not available.

✅ It is a year-round attraction. Tromsø has tons to offer in the winter season, but activities are not in abundance during the shoulder seasons, making the Magic Ice Bar something unique to do then.

✅ Magic Ice Bar is relatively affordable. Tickets are 325 NOK (about $32.50) on their website (can be cheaper on GetYourGuide depending on promos). Kids’ tickets are 160 NOK (about $16).

Cons

❌ It is pretty gimmicky. I’m not going to beat around the bush when I say that the Magic Ice Bar is kind of cheesy. But so are a lot of places I visit, so if you go with the right person, it can be fun to take photos and be silly.

❌ It may not be for everyone. If you live somewhere warm, this may be a better attraction for you than for someone like me who lives in the Arctic and spends a lot of time in snow and ice during the long winters up north.

Magic Ice Bar Tromsø FAQ

How cold is it inside the Magic Ice Bar?

The ice bar is usually around -10C (14F) or a little warmer. It is temperature-controlled and the staff will give you a parka and gloves to ensure you keep warm inside!

How long can you stay inside the Magic Ice Bar?

As long as you want! The ticket is valid for a day; just be sure to show up at your timeslot. I think an hour max is all you need inside, though. Tromsø has a lot to offer beyond the ice bar.

Can you buy a ticket to the Magic Ice Bar on the spot?

Yes, you can drop into the Magic Ice Bar Tromsø and buy a ticket on the spot. Do know that this fully depends on availability inside. I would secure a ticket in advance, but if you add the ice bar to your itinerary at the last minute, you can stop inside Kaigata 4 and see if they have an open timeslot.

Is the Magic Ice Bar family-friendly?

Yes! They have plenty of non-alcoholic options for kids at the bar and the kids will have fun inside taking photos and being silly with the ice sculptures.

Is Magic Ice Bar Tromsø wheelchair-accessible?

Honestly, I would forego the Magic Ice Bar if you are in a wheelchair. It is slippery there and the bar is rather small with certain sections cornered off by walls of ice.

I hope this guide helps if you’re considering visiting the Magic Ice Bar in Tromsø. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Thanks!

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