Frequently asked questions
Kiruna: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-August (summer), December-March (northern lights). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Kiruna: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +30.0°C, during the day — up to +18.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Kiruna: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +-17.0°C, during the day — up to +-9.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Kiruna: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on July-August. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Kiruna: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $180.00 (≈ 15 106 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the
trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Kiruna: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $30.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $120.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $170.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $300.00 per night, an apartment — $100.00 per night, a villa — $250.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Kiruna: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $14.00, dinner at a restaurant — $35.00, a cup of cappuccino — $5.00, a 0.5L beer — $8.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $2.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Kiruna: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $30.00, a single public transport ticket — $4.00, a short taxi ride — $18.00, car rental — $65.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Kiruna: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Icehotel — A world-famous hotel built from ice and snow. Rebuilt each year with a unique design. A unique experience of staying in an ice room.; Kiruna Church — A historic church in the city centre. Impressive architecture and spiritual atmosphere. A place of pilgrimage and an object of cultural heritage.; Luossavaara Mountain — A picturesque mountain with panoramic views of the city and surroundings. A popular place for trekking and photo shoots.; Northern Lights — Kiruna is one of the best places in the world to observe the northern lights. From August to April, the sky here is often painted in green, purple, and pink hues.; Kiruna Museum — A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the region. The collection includes archaeological finds and household items of the Sami.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Kiruna: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Reindeer Meat — Reindeer meat grilled or stewed. A traditional Sami dish, popular in Kiruna. Served with potatoes and lingonberry sauce.; Grilled Salmon — Fresh salmon grilled with herbs and lemon. Served with potatoes and vegetables. One of the most popular dishes in local restaurants.; Surströmming — A traditional Swedish delicacy — fermented herring with a pungent smell. Served with potatoes, onions, and bread. An exotic dish for the brave.; Swedish Meatballs — Juicy meatballs with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce. A traditional Swedish dish, popular in Kiruna.; Smörgåsbord — A Swedish buffet with various appetizers: fish, cheeses, sausages, vegetables. A traditional treat at holidays and in restaurants.; Glögg — A traditional Scandinavian hot drink with spices and red wine. Popular in winter, especially during the northern lights season.; Crème Brûlée — A classic French dessert with a caramelized crust. In Kiruna, it is prepared with local ingredients.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Kiruna: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: City Centre — The administrative and commercial centre of Kiruna with hotels, restaurants, shops, and main attractions. Kiruna Church and the museum are located here. A convenient place to stay and explore the city.; Luossavaara — The area around the mountain with upscale homes and hotels. Popular among wealthy residents and tourists.; Jukkasjärvi — An area with traditional Sami villages and hotels. Popular among ecotourism enthusiasts.; Abisko — The area around the national park with eco-lodges and hotels. Popular among nature lovers.; Norra — A residential area with affordable hotels and local cafes. A calm atmosphere and proximity to the centre.; Södra — A residential area with local cafes and shops. A good choice for budget travellers.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Kiruna: is a visa required?
Visa: required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Kiruna: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Кируна аэропорт (code KRN). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $30.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Kiruna: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — SEK. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $180.00 (≈ 15 106 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Kiruna: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Kiruna: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Kiruna: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Abisko — A national park 100 km from Kiruna, known for its mountains, glaciers, and northern lights. A popular place for trekking and nature watching.; Jukkasjärvi — A village 20 km from Kiruna, known for its Icehotel and Sami culture.; Rovaniemi — A city in Finland 300 km from Kiruna, known for its Christmas traditions and northern lights.; Luleå — A city 300 km from Kiruna, known for its historic centre and harbour.; Narvik — A city in Norway 200 km from Kiruna, known for its mountains and fjords.; Tromsø — A city in Norway 400 km from Kiruna, known for its northern lights and Arctic culture.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.
