Things to see and do Kiruna

Dating from 1912, this very pretty church built on the model of a Lappish hut is worth seeing. As you get closer, you notice that it seems to be entirely covered with red wooden tiles. The bright gold-plated statues that adorn it create a striking contrast with the dark red colour of the rest of the building. Inside, the magnificent sculpture of St. George and the dragon, the altar and, just above, the frieze painted by Lotten Zeinwoldt are worthy of note.

A guided tour of the largest underground iron ore mine in the world. The tour takes you 540 meters underground on an underground track that the bus can take (the mine has 400 km of them)! The development of the mine, its impact on the city - and the ongoing displacement of certain neighborhoods - and the processing of iron are explained in broad strokes, before showing some old machines and other tools in a small museum.

In the basement of this large building, a museum is dedicated to the memory of the Sami people, now largely a minority in their historical territory. Objects, clothing, accessories used by this people are exhibited and a traditional Saami tent is reproduced. Only three rooms, not very large but interesting if you take the time to read the explanations in English. Thus, we will learn more about the noaidi, this priest-medic who ensured the link between the spirits and the natural world, or about Lars Nilsson, Saami martyr burned for example.

This site is one of a kind. It is the only space base open (intermittently) to civilians. Rockets and atmospheric balloons are launched here. A tour including transportation to Esrange, presentation, guided tour is possible. For those who have less time and a smaller budget, a Visitor Center is open in the summer on the spot, where a shorter and lighter version of the tour is available. Book in advance.

A traditional Saami camp, explaining the Saami way of life, their customs, etc. At the back of the museum, there is an enclosure where you can freely see reindeer. We will also pass by the small store that sells Sami handicrafts. You can also stay in a chalet or a tent and enjoy the typical snow sports of the region. Note that from April to early June, the reindeer graze in the mountains and are therefore not visible. Entrance is then free.

You should stop here when you arrive in Kiruna, because the team knows everything, the structure is very well designed. This is where you can organize your excursions and outings in the area: canoeing, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, rafting, sleigh rides, skiing, snow scooters in winter, and many other things... You can also book a visit to the LKAB mine here. The English-speaking staff at the tourist office are as competent as they are passionate and will be happy to help you organise your stay in Kiruna.