Kiruna

Sweden, Europe

Nestled in the far north of Sweden, Kiruna is a mesmerizing destination famed for its stunning natural landscapes and the enchanting Northern Lights. Visitors flock to experience the Icehotel—a magical structure rebuilt yearly from ice and snow—and to explore the nearby Abisko National Park, renowned for its breathtaking hiking trails. Kiruna's unique Sami culture adds to its charm, offering authentic experiences in reindeer sledding and local cuisine. The remote wilderness, clean air, and stunning night skies make Kiruna irresistibly appealing for adventurous souls.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Kiruna

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Kiruna

1

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

See the Northern Lights

Witness stunning auroras dance across the sky.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit Icehotel

Explore the world-famous ice hotel and bar.

Booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Dog Sledding

Experience thrilling rides with huskies in the snow.

Booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Abisko National Park

Hike amidst breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Kiruna Church

Admire unique architecture of the wooden church.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Learn Sami Culture

Discover the rich heritage of the Sami people.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Snowmobiling Adventures

Ride through snowy landscapes on a snowmobile.

Booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a Midnight Sun Tour

Experience the endless daylight of summer.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Visit the Kiruna Mine

Tour one of the world's largest underground mines.

Booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Enjoy Winter Sports

Skiing and snowboarding in beautiful surroundings.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Swedish Krona

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Swedish

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kanelbulle

V

Cinnamon bun, sweet and spiced. (National dish)

Swedish Meatballs (Köttbullar)

Meatballs served with gravy and lingonberry.

Gravlax

V

Cured salmon with dill and sugar.

Janssons Frestelse

Potato and anchovy casserole.

Smörgåsbord

V

A buffet of various Swedish dishes.

Phrases to learn

English

Swedish

Hello

Hej

(Hey)

Yes/No

Ja / Nej

(Yah / Nay)

Thank you

Tack

(Tack)

Excuse me

Ursäkta

(Oor-sek-tah)

How much?

Hur mycket?

(Hoor mew-ket)