Things To Do
in Kiruna
Kiruna is a small town located in northern Sweden, above the Arctic Circle. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Kiruna is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and pristine lakes. Despite its remote location, Kiruna is a bustling hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and dog sledding.
The town is also famous for being home to the Kiruna Mine, one of the largest underground iron ore mines in the world.
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tack" - Thank you
- "Förlåt" - Sorry
- "Ja" - Yes
- "Nej" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Icehotel, a unique structure made entirely of ice and snow. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about its fascinating art and architecture.
Explore the nearby Kiruna Church, one of Sweden's largest wooden buildings. The church's stunning architecture is worth admiring, and you can enjoy a peaceful walk in the surroundings.
Wrap up the day with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant. Try traditional Swedish dishes and perhaps enjoy some reindeer meat.
Experience a dog sledding tour through the picturesque Arctic wilderness. This thrilling ride will connect you with nature and local huskies.
Visit the Sami cultural center to learn about the indigenous Sami people and their rich traditions. Engage in workshops to try activities like crafting or reindeer sledding.
Enjoy a warm drink at a local café while reflecting on your day's adventures. The cozy ambiance will help you unwind after an action-packed day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique Arctic environment with stunning natural beauty, including the Northern Lights.
- Rich cultural heritage with the indigenous Sámi people and their traditions.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking.
- Innovative urban development with the ongoing relocation of the city due to mining.
- Strong sense of community and low crime rates, contributing to safety and stability.
- Harsh winter climate with extremely cold temperatures and limited daylight.
- Geographical isolation, which can lead to limited access to certain services and amenities.
- Potential negative impacts of mining on the environment and local ecosystem.
- Higher cost of living due to its remote location.
- Challenges in job availability, especially in sectors outside of mining and tourism.
Best Activities in Kiruna
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful and serene nature trails surrounding Kiruna, with options suitable for all levels of hikers.
Experience the thrill of gliding through the Arctic wilderness with a team of sled dogs.
Seek out the mesmerizing aurora borealis with guided tours to optimal viewing locations.
Enjoy the tranquility of ice fishing on frozen lakes, with the chance to catch Arctic char or trout.
Embark on exhilarating snowmobile adventures across the snow-covered landscapes of Kiruna.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kiruna with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kiruna
Visit one of these nice places.
One of Sweden's most beautiful churches with stunning vistas of the surrounding area.
Famous for the Icehotel and panoramic views of the Torne River.
A mountain located just outside Kiruna offering breathtaking views of the town and surrounding wilderness.
Food in Kiruna
Kiruna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try delicacy, grilled reindeer is tender and flavorful. It's often served with lingonberry sauce and potatoes. One of the best places to enjoy this dish is at the renowned Husky and Reindeer Tours.
Must-Try!
Arctic Char, a fish native to the region's cold waters, is often prepared in a variety of ways, such as smoked or grilled. To sample this dish, visit the classic restaurant Kukkola.
For a sweet treat, indulge in cloudberries and cream, a delightful dessert that highlights the local berries. You can find this delectable dish at Cafe Safari.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kiruna better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Kiruna Stadshus Market offers a selection of local produce, including berries, mushrooms, and fish. It's a great place to experience the flavors and ingredients of the region.
During the summer months, the Kiruna Street Food Festival is a vibrant celebration of local and international street food. It's a fantastic opportunity to sample a variety of culinary delights from different cultures.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kiruna, it is important to maintain a certain level of personal space and not stand too close to others, particularly when having conversations or interacting in social settings.
Punctuality is highly valued in Kiruna, so it is important to arrive on time for any scheduled appointments, meetings, or social gatherings.
Kiruna is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, and residents take great pride in preserving the environment. It is important to show respect for nature and follow any specific rules or guidelines when visiting outdoor areas.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kiruna with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kiruna
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kiruna, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service, typically in restaurants and for taxi rides. A common practice is to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip.
Cash is widely accepted in Kiruna, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and for establishments that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kiruna.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kiruna is during the winter season, from December to March, when you can experience activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and witnessing the Northern Lights.
Summer, from June to August, is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and experiencing the Midnight Sun phenomenon.
Autumn and spring offer a mix of experiences, with autumn showcasing vibrant foliage and spring bringing the reawakening of nature after the winter months.
Kiruna at Night
Hiking in Kiruna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 90 km from Kiruna, Abisko National Park is known for its stunning landscapes and extensive hiking trails, including a segment of the Kungsleden trail.
This famous long-distance hiking trail starts in Abisko and extends southward. The section near Kiruna offers breathtaking views and diverse terrain.
A nearby hill that provides a moderate hike with panoramic views of Kiruna and the surrounding areas.
Located near Kiruna, this trail offers a beautiful hike along lakes and forests, perfect for a day trip.
A short drive from Kiruna, Malmberget offers various trails with opportunities to experience the unique geology and wildlife of the region.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kiruna through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kiruna by plane.
The main airport serving Kiruna, providing domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 150 km south of Kiruna, it is the nearest major international airport with connections to several European destinations.
About 250 km southwest of Kiruna, it serves international flights mainly to other locations in Europe.
Located in Norway, approximately 300 km west of Kiruna, it provides international flights to various destinations.
Sweden's largest airport, located about 1,200 km south of Kiruna, offers a wide range of international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous people of the northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia, known for their unique culture and language.
The predominant ethnic group, consisting of individuals who identify as ethnically Swedish, with a significant part of the population being descended from historic Swedish families.
Swedish-speaking Finns living in Sweden, including those with connections to the historical regions of Finland.
Various immigrant groups, including individuals from the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe, who have settled in Kiruna.
Individuals from various backgrounds who come to Kiruna for education or temporary employment in mining and tourism.
The Soul of Kiruna
Discover the essence of Kiruna through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Kiruna, with local teams and a strong community following. The sport is played in the long winter months, and the Kiruna IF team has a rich history.
Due to the snowy climate, cross-country skiing is a favored activity in Kiruna, with numerous trails available for both recreational and competitive skiing.
Curling has gained popularity in Kiruna, with facilities available for both amateur and competitive players. The sport is particularly enjoyed during the winter months.
Football is played during the summer months, with local clubs engaging in leagues and community events. The sport is widely followed and supported by residents.
An integral part of the local culture and tourism, dog sledding is a popular winter sport, giving residents and visitors alike the chance to explore the snowy landscapes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kiruna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Kiruna, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, making it relatively easy for visitors with these dietary preferences to find suitable meals.
For those with gluten restrictions, several establishments in Kiruna provide gluten-free choices, ensuring that individuals with this dietary requirement can enjoy the local cuisine without any concerns.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kiruna with these cultural adventures.
