Kiruna is the gateway to Swedish Lapland, famous for its extreme Arctic wilderness, the world-renowned Icehotel, and the ongoing relocation of the entire city due to mining. It is best visited in winter for the Northern Lights and dog sledding, or in summer for the midnight sun and mountain hiking.
Top Things to Do in Kiruna
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Getting Around Kiruna
From the Airport
Airport Bus. The Horvalls airport bus connects Kiruna Airport to the city center and major hotels, with timing coordinated with flight arrivals. Taxi. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall; it is recommended to pre-book with a local company like Kiruna Taxi for a fixed price.
Once You're There
Walking. The city center is compact and very walkable, though be prepared for icy conditions in winter. Taxi. For distances outside the city center or travel to Jukkasjärvi, local taxis are the most reliable and common method of transport.
Where to Stay in Kiruna
Hotel picks for Kiruna are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Kiruna
Stejk Street Food★ 4.9 (2,182)Konduktörsgatan 22, 981 34 Kiruna, SwedenA must-visit food truck turned local favorite known for their legendary reindeer burgers and wraps.
Café Safari★ 4.7 (83)Stadshustorget 1, 981 30 Kiruna, SwedenThe go-to place for a traditional Swedish fika with fresh cinnamon buns and strong coffee.
Fjällpuben★ 4.6 (225)Årevägen 72B, 837 52 Åre, SwedenA classic mountain pub vibe perfect for enjoying a local beer after a long day of dog sledding or skiing.
Restaurang Spis★ 4.3 (1,116)Bergmästaregatan 7, 981 33 Kiruna, SwedenRenowned for its locally sourced game meats like reindeer and moose served in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Camp Ripan★ 4.2 (2,923)Campingvägen 5, 981 35 Kiruna, SwedenOffers a sophisticated Arctic menu that highlights seasonal ingredients from the surrounding Torne Valley.
Landströms Kök & Bar★ 4.2 (372)Föreningsgatan 11, 981 31 Kiruna, SwedenA reliable spot in the city center serving hearty Swedish classics that satisfy any appetite after outdoor adventures.
Icehotel Restaurant★ 4.2 (303)981 91 Jukkasjärvi, SwedenProvides a unique fine-dining experience where dishes are served on plates carved from pure Torne River ice.
Arctic Thai & Grill★ 4.1 (1,486)Föraregatan 18, 981 34 Kiruna, SwedenSurprisingly authentic Thai flavors that provide a warming contrast to the freezing temperatures outside.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Kiruna
Arctic Wonders & The Frozen Hotel
Morning. Start your journey by heading about 17 kilometers east to Jukkasjärvi to experience the iconic Icehotel. Spend your morning wandering through the Art Suites, where each room is hand-carved by international artists, and don't forget to visit the Icebar to feel the chill of the frozen surroundings. It is best to arrive right when they open to avoid the mid-day tour bus crowds. Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby Nutti Sámi Siida to learn about indigenous Sámi culture and feed the reindeer. Dress in layers, as the indoor temperature of the hotel is kept at a constant minus five degrees Celsius.
Afternoon. Return to central Kiruna to visit the historic Kiruna Church, one of Sweden's largest wooden buildings designed to mimic a Sámi kåta tent. Spend an hour admiring its intricate altar and peaceful surroundings before heading to the nearby Hjalmar Lundbohmsgården. This historic home belonged to the founder of the LKAB mine and offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of the city. It is a quiet, reflective spot that helps you understand the industrial roots of this Arctic town. From there, take a brisk walk toward the city center to see the new Kiruna City Hall, a modern architectural marvel that houses the famous clock tower relocated from the old town.
Evening. As the evening sets in, head to the base of Luossabacken for a chance to see the Northern Lights away from the city's light pollution. If the conditions are right, the sky above the mountain will dance with color while you look out over the sprawling iron ore mine. Afterward, warm up with a hearty dinner at Restaurang Spis, where you can sample traditional Lappish delicacies. It is the perfect end to a long day of exploration. Wrap up your night with a local craft beer at a nearby pub to toast to your first day in the Arctic.
Subterranean History & Mountain Views
Morning. Begin your day by diving deep into the history of the region at the LKAB Visitor Centre, located 540 meters underground. You will take a bus down the mine tunnels to see how iron ore is extracted and learn about the massive project to relocate the entire city of Kiruna due to subsidence. It is essential to book your tour in advance online, as spots fill up very quickly. After surfacing, head to the nearby viewpoint to look over the vast open-pit mine. The sheer scale of the operation is breathtaking and serves as a stark reminder of the city's purpose.
Afternoon. Spend your afternoon exploring the new city center, which has been thoughtfully designed to replace the areas lost to mining. Walk along the main street, shopping for local handicrafts and high-quality woolens at the various boutiques. Stop for a traditional fika at a cozy cafe to warm your hands and enjoy a cardamom bun. If you have extra time, take a short taxi ride to the outskirts of town to photograph the iconic 'Kiruna Iron Ore Train' as it snakes through the snowy landscape. The contrast between the stark white snow and the industrial machinery makes for incredible photography.
Evening. For your final evening in the city, indulge in a gourmet dinner at Camp Ripan. The restaurant is known for its focus on local ingredients, and the atmosphere is quintessentially Swedish with its warm wood and soft lighting. After dinner, take a walk through the surrounding forest trails where the snow-covered trees create a magical, silent world. If you are lucky, the Aurora Borealis might make an appearance right above your head. It is a tranquil way to reflect on your time in this unique, rapidly changing city.
Abisko National Park Excursion
Morning. Take the scenic train ride from Kiruna Station toward Abisko National Park, a journey that takes about an hour and offers stunning views of the Swedish tundra. Once you arrive, head straight to the Abisko Turiststation to get your bearings and check the trail conditions. The landscape here is dramatic, with jagged mountains and frozen lakes stretching as far as the eye can see. It is a fantastic place for snowshoeing or simply hiking the well-marked trails. Be sure to pack a thermos of hot lingonberry juice to keep you warm throughout the morning.
Afternoon. In the afternoon, take the chairlift up to the Aurora Sky Station, which is widely considered one of the best places on earth to view the Northern Lights. Even during the day, the panoramic views of Lapporten, the iconic U-shaped valley, are absolutely world-class. Spend some time in the observation deck or enjoy a light lunch at the mountain cafe while taking in the high-altitude air. The wind can be quite strong here, so ensure you are wearing windproof gear and sturdy boots. It is an experience that truly captures the raw, untamed spirit of Lapland.
Evening. Head back down the mountain and catch the late afternoon train back to Kiruna. Once you return, head to Fjällpuben for a relaxed dinner in a setting that feels like a classic mountain lodge. It is a great place to chat with locals and fellow travelers about their adventures in the park. Enjoy a final toast to your Arctic journey with a glass of cloudberry liqueur, a local specialty. As you head back to your accommodation, take one last look at the sky—you never know when the lights will put on a final show for you.