Things to do in Swedish Lapland
Discover the best attractions and experiences Swedish Lapland has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the region's storied past through ancient church towns, proud cathedrals, and settlements that shaped Lapland.
Gammelstad Church Town
UNESCO-listed church town near Luleå with a historic layout and colorful wooden houses around the medieval church.
Kiruna Church
A striking blue-brick church completed in 1912, iconic on Kiruna’s skyline.
Jukkasjärvi Church
A historic church near Jukkasjärvi reflecting local Nordic and Sami influences.
Museums
Dive into Sami culture and Arctic history through dedicated museums.
Ájtte, Swedish Mountain and Sami Museum
In Jokkmokk, it showcases Sami culture and northern nature through engaging exhibits.
Norrbottens Museum
Regional history and cultural heritage of Norrbotten with varied displays.
Kiruna City Museum (Kiruna Stadsmuseum)
Stories of Kiruna’s mining town origins and urban development.
Religious Monuments
Spiritual landmarks that dot the Arctic landscape.
Luleå Cathedral
A grand brick cathedral by the Lule River, central to the region's religious life.
Jokkmokk Church
A historic church in Jokkmokk reflecting local traditions.
Jukkasjärvi Church
A 15th-century church with simple, sturdy architecture near the river.
National & Theme Parks
Wide-open fjälls and pristine parks offering unrivaled natural beauty.
Abisko National Park
Iconic for its accessibility, dramatic scenery, and aurora viewing potential.
Padjelanta National Park
A vast plateau region—perfect for trekking and experiencing Sami culture.
Stora Sjöfallet National Park
Snowy alpine landscapes and powerful waterfalls within a protected area.
Neighborhoods
Characterful towns and villages that give Lapland its human scale.
Kiruna Centre (Kiruna Centrum)
Main shopping, dining, and services hub set against Arctic surroundings.
Jokkmokk Town Center
Small-town center with markets, charm, and cultural sites.
Luleå City Centre
Coastal urban core with cafes, shops, and lakeside promenades.
Jukkasjärvi village
A quaint village known for its proximity to the famous Icehotel.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to experience the Arctic outdoors and culture.
Hiking in Abisko National Park (free trails)
Explore marked trails with stunning fjäll scenery and viewpoints.
Northern Lights viewing from open spaces
Watch the aurora dance across the night sky on clear evenings.
Walk around Gammelstad Church Town
Stroll the UNESCO site’s historic streets and church square.
Gastronomy
Seasonal Arctic flavors and Sami specialties.
Reindeer stew
A hearty, traditional Arctic dish featuring tender reindeer meat.
Arctic char
Freshwater fish prepared simply to highlight its clean flavor.
Cloudberry desserts
Desserts and jams featuring the region’s iconic golden berries.
Nightlife
Evening venues and cozy refuges after a day in the cold.
Harrys Kiruna
A popular local bar for drinks, socializing, and casual dining.
Kulturens hus (Luleå)
A cultural center hosting concerts, screenings, and events.
Entertainment
Iconic experiences and performances that capture the Arctic mood.
Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi
World-famous ice hotel with art suites and seasonal ice installations.
Aurora Sky Station (Abisko)
Guided aurora viewing from a mountaintop observatory with panoramic views.
Jokkmokk Winter Market
Seasonal market featuring Sami crafts, food, and performances.
Sports
Adventure in the snow and on the ice with guided outdoor activities.
Dog sledding
Mushing through snow-covered forests with a team of huskies.
Snowmobile safari
High-speed rides across frozen landscapes with knowledgeable guides.
Cross-country skiing
Glide along groomed trails under expansive Arctic skies.
Ice fishing
Drift on frozen lakes in search of prized trout.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and unconventional experiences for a unique Arctic journey.
Visit a Sami reindeer herding camp
Learn about traditional livelihoods and Sami culture up close.
Reindeer herding camp visit
Engage with a local herder and gain insight into seasonal practices.
Aurora photography night tour
Capture the northern lights with a guided photo session.