Wander and go on a journey to Kiruna, Sweden for a winter landscape of pure enchantment. Since I’m a nature travel enthusiast with a drive for eco-conscious exploration, Kiruna has held a special place in my heart. This Arctic gem offers a plethora of family-friendly activities while embracing sustainable practices that align with my eco-conscious mindset. You can dive in and learn more about the great things to do in the area and many experiences that are waiting for you to explore!

Aurora Adventures

and Snowy Bliss

The colors dance in the night sky to a silent song. One cannot mention Kiruna, Sweden without the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights. Imagine wrapping up in warm layers, venturing into the snowy wilderness, and witnessing the sky ablaze with hues of green and purple. It’s magical and so worth it, even in the cold! It’s a celestial spectacle that delights both young and old. Families can take on guided Northern Lights tours for an immersive experience.

When I saw the northern lights for the first time, I was ecstatic and amazed! The colors and how it overtook the sky was unforgettable. It felt like time just stopped and I was fully wrapped in the present. A peaceful feeling engulfed me, and everything felt right.
kiruna Sweden

Activities in Kiruna, Sweden

Beyond the celestial wonders, Kiruna is a great place year round. However, it’s a paradise for winter sports lovers. Try out exhilarating dog sledding or the thrill of snowmobiling. There are plenty of other things to check out as well! There are great spots near Kiruna, Sweden that are definitely worth exploring. However, some of the places may be better during the warmer months.

The chilly Arctic air echoes with the laughter of families enjoying ice skating on frozen lakes or indulging in the joy of building snowmen.

The Adrenaline of Dogsledding!

The atmosphere is filled with excitement as the dogs bark merrily. My heart was pounding, and I was sweating profusely under all my clothes. Then, we were ready and quickly the dogs took off! Dog sledding is an experience that you won’t forget! Now, when you’re looking into dog sledding, be sure that the company has ethical practices and treats the dogs with respect. When it comes to dog sledding, you can learn more about it at From Paws to Adventure: Discover the Magic of Dog Sledding in Sweden.

kiruna Sweden
Sweden ski holidays

Visit the Ice Hotel

The Ice Hotel stands tall and has a mystical feeling to it. Every year it’s rebuilt with a different theme that will take your breath away. Stay in a lovely ice room or you can rent any of the other buildings around it that aren’t made of ice. They have several kinds of guides and activities happening here. So, be sure to learn more about the Ice Hotel.

Kiruna is about 20-25 minutes away from the Ice Hotel and if you have a car, it will be easy to reach. If not, there are buses that travel there as well. But they might only go 2 times daily. Be sure to look this up beforehand and make sure that you have a way to get around.

Skiing is for Everyone!

There are tons of great places to venture if you love to ski. Especially in the northern area with the abundance of snow. Stop by Kiruna, Sweden and see the lovely places there. You can wander to Kiruna Kommun or check out the local library to learn more. Or check out Kiruna Lapland to learn more about the ski resorts!

SWEDEN IN WINTER

The Unforgettable Jokkmokk Market

Another wonderous thing that happens in this area is the Jokkmokk Market, which is February 1st-3rd, 2024. If you want an experience of a lifetime for the winter holidays, then venture to Jokkmokk. This would be a bit more of a drive from Kiruna, Sweden (2 hr. 45min.). But it would be worth it for the market. Jokkmokk Market is a magical place with thousands of booths, activities and events.

Take on Mount Kebnekaise

I could see my breath as we hiked closer to the top of Mount Kebnekaise. This is the tallest mountain in Sweden, and it can be dangerous. I don’t recommend taking it on during the winter and be sure to check the weather at all times. In regards to that, the weather in Sweden is known to change abruptly. If you want to go to Mount Kebnekaise, then it takes about an hour to get to the bottom (Nikkaluokta). Otherwise, there’s usually a bus that can take you there. Read up more about Mount Kebnekaise here.

Our trip up this beautiful mountain was unforgettable! Even with the pain in my feet from having too long of nails and from being exhausted, we kept going. Later in the following days, my toenail fell off! I guess even experienced hikers run into issues as well!

 

Training for Hiking Beginners

Visit Abisko National Park

Step into a place full of wonder and awe as you explore Abisko National Park. Now, you can wander here no matter the season. It will give you a whole other feeling depending on the season. Once you’re here, you’ll feel at peace being surrounded by nature and its’ abundance of beauty. This is about an hour and 20 minutes from Kiruna and is known for being a great spot for skiing and hiking.

abisko national park, northern lights in sweden

Eco-Friendly Explorations

What sets Kiruna, Sweden apart is its commitment to sustainability. The town is designed with eco-friendly principles, from energy-efficient architecture to waste management. Although, most of Sweden is about being eco-conscious. However here, many of the local activities and accommodations follow green practices. This is a great way to help your family adventure to tread lightly on the pristine Arctic environment.
kebnekaise, kiruna, Sweden
booking

Sami Culture: A Living Heritage

Kiruna, Sweden is not just about snowy landscapes; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the indigenous Sami people. This wonderful culture will show you a way to live and be eco-friendly. Engage in authentic experiences, from visiting the Sami-inspired Jukkasjärvi Icehotel to attending the annual Jokkmokk Market. It’s at the market where Sami traditions come alive through vibrant crafts, delectable cuisine, and cultural performances.

Winter Wonderland for All Ages

Kiruna, Sweden is a fun place for the whole family with all kinds of activities. Whether it’s a reindeer sleigh ride for the little ones, a guided snowshoeing expedition for the adventurous teens, or a cozy evening around a bonfire sharing Sami tales, there’s something for everyone. You can learn more about Kiruna at Visit Sweden.

Best Time to Visit

If you want to see Kiruna’s frozen magic, then December to February are ideal for experiencing Kiruna, Sweden. The days may be short, but this means that you’ll have more twilight hours to possibly see the northern lights and go on nightly adventures with the family.
winter holiday in sweden

Essential Gear and Tips

Since you’re in Northern Sweden, be sure to pack layers for the Arctic chill. Waterproof and insulated boots are a must, especially for little feet. Besides that, don’t forget gloves, hats, and, of course, a camera to capture those precious family moments. A good thing to always have is a reusable water bottle, a first aid kit and snacks. When traveling with kids, it’s a must with snacks!

Visit Kiruna, Sweden!

Kiruna, Sweden is a great blend of Arctic beauty, eco-conscious ethics, and rich culture. With that in mind, it’s a wonderful destination for families seeking adventure and connection. Your journey to Kiruna promises not just frosty landscapes but unforgettable memories of the Northern Lights, Sami traditions, and the warmth of family bonds.

Adventures in Sweden

There are tons of fun activities awaiting in Sweden. No matter the weather, you can find a fun place or thing to do in this nature loving country. Check out Adventures in Sweden page to learn more about the splendid new experiences that you can have!

winter holiday in sweden, glaskogen nature reserve

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kiruna sweden
kiruna sweden

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