Meet people in Kiruna

Located in the heart of the city, Café Safari is a cozy, long-standing establishment known for its relaxed atmosphere and traditional Swedish fika. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to sit down with a coffee and a pastry. The interior is warm and inviting, making it a comfortable place for quiet conversation or simply people-watching. Its central location makes it an easy meeting point for those exploring the city center.

Try their traditional cinnamon buns, a staple of any Swedish fika experience.

Spis Mat & Dryck is a vibrant venue that combines a restaurant and a bar, focusing on local ingredients from the Arctic region. The atmosphere is lively and modern, making it a great place for an evening meal or a drink. It attracts a diverse crowd, including locals and travelers, providing a social setting where it is easy to strike up a conversation over a glass of wine or a locally inspired dinner.

Ask the staff about their selection of local Arctic ingredients and seasonal specials.

Kiruna Church is one of Sweden's largest wooden buildings and is renowned for its unique architectural design, which draws inspiration from both traditional Sámi huts and Gothic styles. The interior is adorned with intricate carvings and a stunning altarpiece. As the city undergoes its relocation, the church is slated to be moved piece by piece to the new town center, preserving its historical significance. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship and the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds this iconic structure, which stands as a testament to the city's evolving identity and deep-rooted history in the harsh northern climate.

Check the official schedule for guided tours to learn about the planned relocation process.

Luossavaara is a mountain located right on the edge of the city, providing an accessible vantage point for panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and the sprawling iron ore mine. During the winter months, it serves as a local ski slope, while in the summer, it becomes a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the endless daylight. The summit offers a clear perspective on how the city is being reshaped by the mining industry, making it an essential stop for anyone wanting to understand the scale of Kiruna's unique urban landscape and its proximity to nature.

Visit during the evening in summer to experience the Midnight Sun from the summit.

The LKAB Visitor Centre provides a fascinating deep dive into the iron ore mining operations that have sustained Kiruna for over a century. Visitors can descend into the underground mine to see the massive scale of the extraction process and learn about the technology behind it. The center explains the critical role the mine plays in the global steel industry and why the entire city is currently being moved. It is an educational experience that highlights the industrial backbone of the region and the complex engineering challenges faced by the local community.

Book your underground tour well in advance as spots are limited and highly sought after.

The new City Hall, known as Kristallen, is a striking piece of modern architecture that serves as the cultural heart of the new Kiruna. It houses an art collection and serves as a public space where the history of the old city is integrated into the new design. The building features a clock tower salvaged from the old City Hall, symbolizing the continuity of the community. Visitors can explore the public areas and appreciate how the city is blending modern functionality with the preservation of its cultural heritage during this period of transition.

Look for the old clock tower which was carefully relocated to the new site.