Kiruna

This is your travel guide for Kiruna

1 : Visit the Icehotel [3 hrs]

Experience the world-famous Icehotel, a unique hotel and art exhibition made entirely of ice and snow. Marvel at the stunning ice sculptures and intricate designs throughout the hotel’s rooms and common areas. Don’t miss the Icebar, where even the glasses are made of ice, offering a truly memorable drinking experience in a frozen setting. Learn about the construction process and the fascinating history of this iconic destination.

2 : Explore the Abisko National Park [4 hrs]

Spend time hiking or skiing in the breathtaking Abisko National Park, known for its pristine natural beauty, jagged mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Take a guided tour to learn about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this Arctic wilderness. Don’t forget to visit the Abisko Sky Station for a chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights during the winter months. Enjoy a relaxing picnic amid the stunning landscapes or try ice fishing on the frozen lakes.

3 : Discover the Sami culture at Jukkasjärvi [2 hrs]

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the indigenous Sami people at the village of Jukkasjärvi, located near Kiruna. Visit the Sami church, museum, and cultural center to learn about their traditional way of life, handicrafts, and reindeer herding. Enjoy reindeer sleigh rides, Sami cuisine, and traditional music performances showcasing their vibrant culture. Shop for authentic Sami handicrafts like jewelry, clothing, and home decor as unique souvenirs.

4 : Tour the Kiruna Mine [2 hrs]

Take a guided tour of the Kiruna Mine, one of the largest and most productive iron ore mines in the world, operated by LKAB. Descend into the depths of the mine to see enormous mining equipment and learn about the mining process from extraction to transportation. Explore the fascinating geological formations and understand the significance of mining in the region’s economy and history. Witness the massive scale of operations and marvel at the sheer size of the mine’s underground chambers.

5 : Experience dog sledding in the Arctic wilderness [3 hrs]

Embark on an exhilarating dog sledding adventure through the snow-covered landscapes of Kiruna, led by a team of energetic and friendly huskies. Learn how to drive a dogsled or sit back and enjoy the ride while taking in the serene beauty of the Arctic wilderness. Stop along the way to take photos, interact with the dogs, and enjoy a traditional Swedish fika (coffee break) by an open fire. Immerse yourself in the magical winter wonderland on this unforgettable Arctic experience.

6 : Attend the Kiruna Snow Festival [1 hr]

Join the annual Kiruna Snow Festival, a lively celebration of winter featuring snow sculptures, ice carving competitions, cultural performances, and festive activities for all ages. Admire the intricate snow and ice creations displayed throughout the festival grounds, created by talented artists and local enthusiasts. Enjoy traditional Swedish delicacies, hot drinks, and live music in a festive atmosphere surrounded by the winter beauty of Kiruna. Don’t miss the chance to participate in snow-related games and activities during this vibrant winter event.

Background Info

Weather

Kiruna experiences extremely cold temperatures during the winter months, with averages dropping to -15°C (5°F) or lower. Snowfall is common throughout the winter, creating a winter wonderland environment. Summers are short and cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is moderate, with higher humidity levels compared to other regions.

Language

The official language spoken in Kiruna is Swedish. English is widely understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas and hotels.

Cost Of Living

The cost of living in Kiruna is relatively high compared to other Swedish cities due to its remote location and Arctic climate. Housing and utility costs can be substantial, but salaries are generally higher to compensate for the higher living expenses.