Nights spent under the aurora borealis | A complete guide to glass igloos in Finland (prices, booking, room type comparison)
Glass igloos in Finnish Lapland make watching the Northern Lights from your bed a reality. From romantic dates to family trips, from affordable to high-end options, what accounts for the price differences? How do you choose the right one? This article will explain it all for you.
How much does it cost per night? Common prices and differences
Entry-level budget options (€250–€450 per night)
- Suitable for 2 people, basic bathroom facilities, simple heating system
- Most of them are located in the suburbs or outskirts of Rovaniemi/Kemi.
- Advantages: High cost-performance ratio; Disadvantages: Limited space, average view.
Popular mid-range options (€450–€800 per night) are the most common.
- Rooms for 2–4 people, some with private sauna/kitchen.
- Mostly located in Lapland resort areas, offering a wide range of activities (huskies, reindeer, snowmobiles).
- The landscape faces either a forest or a glacial lake, providing a balanced overall experience.
Luxury view packages (€800–€1500+ per night)
- Featuring a private sauna/spa/fireplace/terrace, some units can accommodate extra beds for 4–6 people.
- First row of lakeside/mountain view apartments, often equipped with heated and fog-proof stargazing windows.
- Disadvantages: Rooms are very likely to be fully booked during peak season; it is recommended to book 3–6 months in advance.
How to choose a room type? Glass igloo vs. log cabin suite
- Glass igloos: Ideal for couples or small families looking up at the stars and aurora borealis.
- Log cabin suites: Space for 3-8 people, living room + kitchen + fireplace, offering better value. Available with a small loft and standard double rooms.
- Mixed accommodation: First stay in a log cabin for 2-3 nights to increase the success rate of aurora viewing, and finally stay in a glass igloo for a ritualistic experience.
How to choose a region? Three popular areas
Rovaniemi
The gateway to the Arctic Circle and home to Santa Claus Village. With frequent flights and a high density of activities, it's ideal for first-time visitors to Northern Europe.
Saariselkä / Inari
With better nighttime visibility and fewer crowds, it's perfect for travelers who want to "chase the light and have a vacation".
Kemi area
This is a popular departure point for icebreaker cruises, and it is recommended to combine it with a 2–3 night stay in a glass igloo.
When to go? How to snag a good room?
- Best season: September–March; peak season is December–February (most popular from Christmas to New Year).
- Booking timing: At least 3–6 months in advance during peak season; even earlier if there is a long holiday.
- Observe the moon phase: Try to avoid the period 2-3 days before and after the full moon; if you do encounter a full moon, you can reschedule daytime activities plus a short nighttime trip to chase the moon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does a glass igloo guarantee a view of the aurora borealis?
There is no guarantee. It is recommended to stay for at least 3 nights and choose areas with a higher rate of clear nights to increase the chances of a positive outcome.
Will it be cold indoors? Will it fog up?
Most glass roofs come with heating and frost protection systems, allowing for the maintenance of a comfortable indoor temperature.
Is it suitable to take care of young children?
It is generally not recommended for children under 6 years old to stay in or participate in most winter activities. Reasons include: many activities (such as snowmobiling, long-distance husky/reindeer excursions, and icebreaker deck activities) have minimum age/height restrictions; nighttime aurora chasing takes place late and in low temperatures, requiring greater cold tolerance and a more restful sleep schedule. If traveling with young children, it is recommended to choose short daytime experiences, activities close to the resort, and prioritize booking rooms with meals included or near restaurants.
