ABISKO & KIRUNA
This Arctic region in Swedish Lapland is a landscape of dramatic mountains, pristine wilderness, and incredible natural phenomena. It offers year-round adventures from the Midnight Sun to the Polar Night.
Home to the world’s most accessible Northern Lights viewing and the famous Icehotel, this combined region offers an unforgettable blend of Sami culture, deep mining history, and Arctic exploration.
Most Popular Attractions
Arctic Natural Phenomena & Viewing:
Aurora Sky Station (Abisko): Accessible by chairlift on Mount Nuolja, it is renowned as one of the best places on Earth to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) due to Abisko’s “Blue Hole” microclimate which often results in clear skies.
The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Observable from September to March, the spectacular light show is a primary draw to both Kiruna and the dark-sky area of Abisko.
Midnight Sun: Visible during the summer months (late May to mid-July), providing 24 hours of daylight for endless outdoor activities.
Polar Night (Kaamos): The period in winter when the sun does not rise above the horizon, resulting in a unique, magical blue twilight and the best time for Northern Lights viewing.
Arctic Structures & Cultural Sites:
ICEHOTEL (Jukkasjärvi): The world’s first and largest hotel made entirely of ice and snow, rebuilt each year with unique art suites, an ice bar, and an ice church.
Kiruna Church (Kiruna Kyrka): A striking, early 20th-century wooden church designed in a Sámi kåta (log hut) style, known for its unique architecture and ongoing historic relocation project.
LKAB Iron-Ore Mine: The world’s largest underground iron ore mine; visitor centers and tours offer insight into the industry that shaped Kiruna’s history and its ongoing city transformation.
Nutti Sámi Siida (Jukkasjärvi): A Sámi-run center offering cultural experiences, reindeer feeding, and learning about the indigenous Sámi people and their way of life.
The New Kiruna City Centre: Visit the relocated core of the city, a radical urban transformation project driven by the expansion of the mine.
Wilderness & Hiking:
Abisko Canyon: A dramatic gorge carved by the Abiskojåkka river, easily accessible for short walks, offering stunning views in both summer and winter.
Lake Torneträsk: Scandinavia’s largest mountain lake, offering activities like ice fishing in winter and boat tours or fishing in summer, with beautiful views of the mountains.
Kungsleden (King’s Trail): The northern end of this famous 440km long hiking trail starts in Abisko, offering multi-day treks through the Lapland mountains.
Mount Nuolja: Accessible by chairlift, offering spectacular views of Abisko National Park, Lake Torneträsk, and the iconic Lapporten mountain pass.
Trollsjön (Lake Kårsavaggejaure): Also known as the “Troll Lake,” famous for having the clearest water in all of Sweden, accessible by a scenic hike.
Arctic Activities:
Dog Sledding: Thrilling tours through the snowy landscape, where visitors can either drive their own team of huskies or sit back as a passenger.
Snowmobile Tours: Guided adventures through the forests and mountains, often including evening tours for Northern Lights hunting.
Ice Fishing: An authentic winter experience on the frozen lakes, such as Torneträsk, often combined with a snowmobile or snowshoe tour.
Reindeer Sledding: A traditional and peaceful Sámi way to travel through the Arctic landscape, sometimes offered as part of an Aurora Borealis excursion.
Hiking & Snowshoeing: Extensive trail networks in Abisko National Park and the surrounding mountains, accessible year-round for gentle walks or challenging expeditions.
Activities & Experiences
Hunt for the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Visit the Aurora Sky Station atop Mount Nuolja in Abisko, known as one of the best places on earth to see the Northern Lights due to the ‘Blue Hole’—a patch of sky with consistently clear conditions.
Experience the Icehotel: Stay a night in one of the uniquely sculpted art suites or simply take a guided tour of the original Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, rebuilt every winter from Torne River ice.
Go Dog Sledding: Take a thrilling tour pulled by a team of huskies, either driving your own sled or sitting back and relaxing as a passenger, traversing the Arctic wilderness.
Hike the King’s Trail (Kungsleden): Start or explore part of this famous long-distance trail. The section around Abisko offers breathtaking mountainous and lakeside scenery, perfect for summer hiking.
Snowmobile Safari: Experience the Arctic landscape at speed by joining a guided snowmobile tour, often including a stop for a wilderness meal or a Northern Lights hunt.
Visit the LKAB Iron-Ore Mine: Take a guided tour deep underground in Kiruna’s massive working mine, which is the reason for the city’s ongoing relocation, to understand its history and impact.
Experience the Midnight Sun: If visiting in the summer (late May to mid-July), witness the sun never dipping below the horizon, allowing for 24 hours of daylight for activities like midnight hiking or golfing.
Try Cross-Country or Downhill Skiing: Utilize the excellent winter conditions in the area. Björkliden, near Abisko, offers great slopes and trails with stunning views.
Learn about Sámi Culture: Visit a Sámi experience center, such as Máttaráhkká Sámi Siida or similar cultural centers in Jukkasjärvi or Abisko, to learn about the indigenous Sámi people, their reindeer herding, and their traditions.
Take the Chairlift to Mount Nuolja: Available year-round (seasonal operation). In winter for the Sky Station, and in summer/autumn for hiking with panoramic views of Lake Torneträsk and the Abisko Alps.
Ice Sculpting Class: Try your hand at creating art from the Torne River ice with a professional guide at the Icehotel or a local workshop.
Explore Abisko Canyon: Take a walk along the impressive, deep canyon cut by the Abiskojåkka river, spectacular both in summer and when frozen in winter.
Local Tips & Transport
Train is Scenic and Convenient: The train on the Malmbanan (Ore Railway) is an excellent way to travel between Kiruna and Abisko National Park (Abisko Turiststation or Abisko Östra stops). It’s incredibly scenic and often considered the best way to get between the two.
Flying into Kiruna (KRN): Kiruna Airport is the main gateway. Airport transfers, like the Airport Bus (Flygbussen), connect the airport to Kiruna city center and, often, the Icehotel. Private transfers and taxis are also available.
Inter-Regional Bus: Local and regional buses connect various points of interest, including the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi and surrounding villages.
Car Rental: A car offers the most flexibility for exploring the vast region, particularly for visiting remote trailheads or different Northern Lights viewing spots. However, be prepared for winter driving conditions (studded tyres are essential, and engine block heaters are standard).
The City Relocation: Kiruna’s historic city center is in the process of being moved due to the effects of the LKAB iron-ore mine. Be aware that the “new” city center is constantly evolving and that the old city is largely a demolition zone. Check the tourist office for current maps and information on the relocation project.
Dress for Extreme Weather: The Arctic climate is serious. Always dress in layers, with a proper base layer (wool/synthetic), mid-layers, and a wind and waterproof outer layer. In winter, temperatures can drop well below $-20^\circ\text{C}$ ($-4^\circ\text{F}$). Tour operators will generally provide high-quality thermal overalls, boots, and gloves for activities.
The Sámi People & Culture: The Sámi are the indigenous people of Sápmi, the region that includes northern Sweden. Always be respectful of their culture and traditions. Reindeer herding is a fundamental part of their livelihood; if you see reindeer, do not approach, feed, or startle them, especially those near roads, as this can disrupt the herding.
Polar Night and Midnight Sun:
Polar Night (Mörkertiden): From roughly mid-December to early January, the sun does not rise above the horizon. However, it’s not complete darkness; there are a few hours of beautiful blue twilight (sometimes called ‘blue light’).
Midnight Sun: From late May to mid-July, the sun never sets. Pack a good eye mask for sleeping, and be prepared for activities around the clock.
Fika Culture: Embrace the Swedish tradition of fika, which is more than a coffee break—it’s a moment to slow down and socialize, usually with coffee and a pastry (like a cinnamon bun, or kanelbulle). Kiruna has several cozy cafés perfect for a warm-up.
Cost of Living: Sweden, and particularly this remote area, is generally expensive. Budget accordingly for food, accommodation, and especially guided activities.
Hidden Gems:
Kiruna Church (Kiruna Kyrka): A masterpiece of wooden architecture, designed to resemble a Sámi kåta (tent) and built in Art Nouveau style. Note that this church is one of the key buildings being meticulously dismantled and moved to the new city center.
Lake Torneträsk: One of the largest and deepest lakes in Sweden. In winter, it often freezes solid enough for ice-fishing and is a popular spot for aurora reflections on clear nights.
Kärkevagge Valley: A unique, remote valley near Abisko known for its dramatic rock formations and the crystal-clear Lake Trollsjön (also called Rissajaure), which remains unfrozen in summer. It requires a hike but is very rewarding.
The Aurora Borealis Forecast: While the sky is often clear in Abisko, viewing is never guaranteed. Check local aurora forecasts and be patient. Booking a guided tour to the best viewing spots can significantly increase your chances.
Top Restaurants
Ripan Kitchen (Camp Ripan) [$30-$60] – Located outside the main city, this restaurant is highly regarded for its commitment to local ingredients, traditional Sámi-influenced cuisine, and a cozy atmosphere. It has a Slow Food Sápmi distinction.
Restaurant Kungsleden (STF Abisko Turiststation) [$30-$50] – Situated right in Abisko National Park, this KRAV-certified restaurant offers Nordic cuisine and Swedish traditional flavors with an emphasis on organic and locally produced food, all with a magnificent view.
Brasserie Fjällköket (Abisko Mountain Lodge) [$40-$70] – Located in Abisko village, this ‘slow-food’ restaurant offers delicious, seasonal variations of local specialties like moose, arctic char, and cloudberries in an intimate setting.
Restaurant Ovttas (Nutti Sámi Siida – Jukkasjärvi) [$35-$60] – A short drive from Kiruna, this restaurant celebrates Sámi cultural heritage with authentic food. It features traditional and modern Sámi dishes cooked with local ingredients like reindeer, fish, and berries, often using traditional preparation methods like smoking.
Stejk Street Food [$15-$30] – A famous local food truck in Kiruna, serving hearty “street food” like reindeer, moose, and arctic cheese subs/wraps. You can eat inside a warm lavvu (Sámi tent) with an open fireplace.
Restaurang Malmia (Scandic Kiruna) [$30-$50] – Offers a menu inspired by the region’s nature and a mix of international and Lappish cuisine, focusing on local produce such as reindeer and fish.
Arctic Thai & Grill [$20-$40] – A local favorite in Kiruna that blends authentic Thai flavors with northern Swedish grilled dishes, offering a popular and flavorful fusion.
The Old Homestead (ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi) [$50-$80] – Located at the ICEHOTEL resort, this cozy, historic log cabin serves a well-prepared, rustic menu that focuses on local produce.
Empes Gatukök [$15-$25] – A humble, local fast-food spot in Kiruna known for its burgers, kebabs, and korv (sausage), offering a no-frills, affordable option popular with locals.
Fiskekrogen (Kiruna) [$35-$60] – A restaurant in Kiruna known for its focus on fresh fish and seafood, including local Arctic species, often prepared in classic Nordic style.
Mommas Burgers & Steaks [$25-$45] – A popular, modern casual dining spot in Kiruna offering high-quality burgers and steaks, often featuring local meat.
Tippin’ (Björkliden Fjällby) [$30-$50] – Located a short distance from Abisko, this restaurant offers solid, traditional mountain food with great views, a good choice for travelers starting or ending a hike.
Café Sápmi (Nutti Sámi Siida – Jukkasjärvi) [$15-$30] – More casual than Restaurant Ovttas, offering simpler traditional fare, coffee, and pastries, a great spot for a Sámi-inspired fika (coffee break).
ICEHOTEL Restaurant (Jukkasjärvi) [$70-$120] – Offers an exclusive “Ice Menu” where selected dishes are served on plates made of ice from the Torne River, focusing on seasonal, local produce in a unique setting.
The Veranda (ICEHOTEL, Jukkasjärvi) [$150-$250] – The ICEHOTEL’s most exclusive food experience, this chef’s table offers a tasting menu inspired by the eight Sámi seasons, using top-quality local ingredients for a complete culinary journey.
Arctic Gourmet Cabin Restaurant (Kurravaara, near Kiruna) [$150-$300] – A very intimate, highly-acclaimed dining experience, often offering set menus based on the best local and seasonal Arctic ingredients, for an unforgettable high-end meal.
Aurora Sky Station Dinner (Abisko) [$100-$180] – An experience that combines a chairlift ride up Mount Nuolja with a high-quality, 3-course dinner, offering the potential for unparalleled views of the Northern Lights (dinner price often included in a tour package).
Fe [$50-$80] – A modern restaurant in Kiruna (part of the new city centre) focusing on contemporary Swedish and international cuisine with a strong local touch and a focus on quality dining.
Bistro Solsidan (Björkliden Fjällby) [$35-$60] – A relaxed bistro with panoramic views, serving a high-quality menu often featuring Arctic Char, reindeer, and other local game.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
ICEBAR BY ICEHOTEL: Located in Jukkasjärvi, just outside Kiruna, this is the world’s original permanent ice bar. Every drink is served in a glass made of pure Torne River ice, surrounded by intricate ice sculptures.
Aurora Sky Station Bar: Perched atop Mount Nuolja in Abisko National Park, this high-altitude bar offers specialized “Aurora cocktails” and a glass-enclosed viewing area with the best Northern Lights views in the world.
Landströms Kök & Bar: A stylish retro-themed bar in central Kiruna known for its curated cocktail list and warm, dark wood interiors—perfect for an “after-work” drink in the Arctic.
SkyBar at Scandic Kiruna: Located on the top floor of the new Scandic hotel in Kiruna’s modern city center, this bar features floor-to-ceiling windows and creative cocktails inspired by local mountain herbs.
Spis Mat & Dryck: A trendy, industrial-chic venue in Kiruna’s center where the bartenders specialize in gin-based drinks using local Arctic berries and hand-crafted infusions.
Restaurang Kungsleden Bar: Situated within the STF Abisko Turiststation, this vibrant bar is a gathering hub for hikers and explorers to share stories over Swedish craft spirits and classic cocktails.
The Bishop’s Arms: An authentic English-style pub in the heart of Kiruna offering an extensive whiskey collection and a cozy, library-like atmosphere for a sophisticated evening.
Camp Ripan Kitchen & Bar: Located on the outskirts of Kiruna, this bar focuses on “Arctic purity,” serving signature drinks that incorporate crowberry, cloudberry, and birch sap.
Pub Eden: Found in the Arctic Eden Hotel in central Kiruna, this classic spot blends a local pub feel with a high-quality drink selection and a fireplace lounge.
Niehku Mountain Villa Bar: Located near the Riksgränsen border (accessible from Abisko), this high-end lounge is built inside an old railway roundhouse and offers one of the most exclusive wine and cocktail lists in the Arctic.
Abisko Guesthouse Lounge: A more laid-back, community-focused bar in Abisko Östra where you can enjoy local brews and simple mixed drinks in a friendly, international setting.
Meteorologen Ski Lodge Bar: A cozy, historic venue in the Riksgränsen area that serves as a premier spot for skiers and mountain lovers to enjoy high-end cocktails by the fire.
Arctic Thai & Grill Bar: A unique central Kiruna spot that pairs exotic Thai-inspired flavors with a solid cocktail menu, offering a spicy contrast to the freezing temperatures outside.
STF Aurora Hall: Located at the base of the mountain in Abisko, this bar serves as a warm-up station for night tours, specializing in “varm choklad” (spiked hot chocolate) and local snaps.
Enoks i Ladtjovagge: Though a journey away toward Kebnekaise, this mountain bar offers a “wilderness cocktail” experience in a traditional Sami-inspired setting.