Absolut Icebar: "Ice Bar" Stockholm Nightlife Tip by sue_stone

The Absolut Icebar was the world's first permanent ice bar. It is located in the Nordic Sea Hotel, just next door to the Arlanda Express train terminal.

The interior of the bar is kept at around -5°C at all times, making it a chilly but fabulous place for a drink! The walls, fittings, tables and glasses are all made of ice, taken from a frozen river in northern Sweden.

When you arrive you are given a big warm hooded coat and gloves to wear. You then enter a door into an air lock, then go through another door into the actual bar.

Not surprisingly, all the drinks are based on Absolut vodka, and there are a variety of tempting combinations to choose from. We were less adventurous and stuck to a good old Screwdriver (vodka & orange juice). You definitely need the gloves to hold your drink - the ice glass is freezing (as you would imagine!) and as you drink it melts a little around your mouth.

It is a crazy place - looks kind of space like with everyone in their silver coats. What a great experience! Your first drink is not cheap - around £10pounds, but this includes the coat/gloves and non-reusable glass.

If you manage to brave the cold for a second drink it is much cheaper. It is best to book in advance, as the bar only has a capacity for 30 people at a time.

You can book using the phone number below, or through your hotel (as we did).

Dress Code: Open-toe shoes are not a good idea!

Address: Vasaplan 7, Stockholm
Directions: In the Nordic Sea Hotel, right next to the Arlanda Express terminal.
Phone: +46 8 50 56 31 24
Theme: Eating and Drinking
Website: http://www.nordicseahotel.se/omhotellet/matochdryck.asp?MainCatId=41&SubCatId=&LangId=2