Kiruna
Kiruna
Kiruna, Sweden's northernmost town, sits 90 miles north of the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland. What makes this place special is its remarkable transformation - the entire town is currently being moved 3 kilometers east due to mining operations threatening its foundation. How often do you hear about a whole town relocating?
This Arctic frontier isn't just about its famous ice hotel or northern lights viewing. Kiruna has a rich Sami heritage, with indigenous culture deeply woven into local life. The town was built around the world's largest underground iron ore mine, which has been operating since the early 1900s and remarkably goes more than a kilometer deep.
The winter landscape transforms into a snow-covered wonderland with temperatures dropping to -40°C, while summer brings the midnight sun phenomenon with 24 hours of daylight. Despite harsh conditions, Kiruna maintains a vibrant community spirit with unique architecture designed specifically for Arctic conditions.
The nearby Esrange Space Center conducts satellite tracking and scientific research, making Kiruna an unexpected hub for space science. Between its mining history, indigenous culture, extreme weather, and space research, Kiruna offers a fascinating glimpse into life at the edge of the Arctic wilderness.
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Things to do in Kiruna
Top things to do in Kiruna by trip101.com
Where to stay in Kiruna
Best hotels in Kiruna:
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Sandstensgatan 24 (budget hotel)
Sandstensgatan 24 in Kiruna offers a cozy and comfortable stay in northern Sweden. This apartment-style accommodation features shared spaces like a lounge area and garden, giving it a homey feel. The rooms are clean and well-equipped, with options ranging from twin rooms to larger triple rooms for groups or families.
The location is convenient - it's within walking distance of Kiruna's bus station and a short drive from the train station and airport. Guests appreciate the quiet street setting while still being close enough to town. Free parking and WiFi are nice perks too.
While the shared bathroom facilities take some coordination, many find it a good value overall. The friendly hosts and warm atmosphere make it a pleasant base for exploring Kiruna and catching those amazing northern lights displays. Just keep in mind it's more of a guesthouse setup than a full-service hotel.
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Scandic (luxury hotel)
Scandic Kiruna is a modern hotel in Kiruna. Its towering white exterior stands out against the city skyline, making it easy to spot as you arrive. Inside, the rooms are comfortable and well-equipped, with big windows that let in plenty of natural light.
One of the coolest features is the sky bar on the top floor. It offers amazing views over Kiruna and the surrounding landscape - perfect for enjoying a drink while watching the northern lights dance across the sky on clear nights. The hotel also has a restaurant serving up tasty local dishes, as well as a fitness center and sauna for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Location-wise, it's super convenient. You're within walking distance of shops and restaurants in the city center. The airport is just a short drive away too. Overall, Scandic Kiruna provides a great base for discovering this unique part of Swedish Lapland, whether you're here to see the northern lights, visit the famous ICEHOTEL, or experience the midnight sun in summer.
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Camp Ripan (medium range hotel)
Camp Ripan in Kiruna located just a short drive from town, it's the perfect base for exploring the Arctic region. The charming chalet-style rooms provide a comfortable place to relax after a day of adventure.
The on-site restaurant serves up delicious local specialties featuring Nordic ingredients like reindeer and fresh fish. In winter, guests can enjoy activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling right from the property. Summer brings opportunities for hiking and horseback riding in the surrounding mountains.
One of the highlights is the Aurora Spa, where you can unwind and hopefully catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. With its blend of outdoor activities and creature comforts, Camp Ripan offers a true taste of Swedish Lapland in a picturesque setting.
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