Kiruna is a gateway to north-west Sweden, where you can get up close with moose and reindeer, discover traditional Sami culture and watch the Aurora Borealis dancing in the sky. The town is a great base for exploring the Arctic wilderness, with several local tour operators to choose from and a wide selection of cosy cafes and restaurants.
Things to do in Kiruna
Kiruna is an ideal base for outdoor adventures in north-west Sweden. Speed through the forest on a husky sledding expedition and attempt to capture the Northern Lights on an Aurora Borealis photography tour. Moose spotting tours are one of the best ways to see the magnificent mammals in the wild. Other activities include ice fishing, snowmobiling and reindeer encounters.
Tours of the LKAB Iron-Ore Mine take you through an underground tunnel and into a museum 540 metres below sea level. Armed with a hardhat and a torch, you’ll go behind the scenes of one of the biggest iron ore mines in the world. You can learn about the history of the mine and get a chance to see the machinery up close.
Kiruna Kyrka towers over the town centre and features a design inspired by traditional Sami huts. The church was consecrated in 1913 and remains one of the largest and most beautiful wooden buildings in Sweden. Inside is an evocative Art Nouveau altar.
Whether you feel like a juicy reindeer steak or a spicy Thai curry, Kiruna offers a wide range of dining options. There are trendy cafes and delis, as well as a handful of lively pubs and bars to visit after dark.
Getting around Kiruna
Kiruna is compact and easy to get around on foot, while local buses are a fast and affordable way to get around the town. Guided tours are the best way to explore the surrounding wilderness. Kiruna Airport is a 15-minute drive from the town centre.