Kiruna has a reputation as a place of striking natural beauty and fascinating development, but it’s also surprisingly rich in ways to explore the city and surrounding region. Its unique location in northern Sweden makes it an ideal hub for day trips and cultural experiences, especially for those eager to see the Arctic landscapes or understand the city’s extraordinary transformation due to iron ore mining. We’re particularly fond of the From Kiruna: Narvik City and Fjord Day Trip for its combination of stunning scenery, cross-border adventure, and insights into Narvik’s history. It’s a full day of scenic views and cultural discovery that highlights the region’s natural and human-made beauty.
Along With scenic day trips, Kiruna offers immersive city tours that explore its planned relocation and cultural roots. Whether you prefer a quick overview or an in-depth guided exploration, there are options tailored to different interests. Below, we’ve compiled the four best city tours in Kiruna, ranging from scenic excursions outside the city to comprehensive local history walks. Each one offers a distinct way to experience this fascinating Arctic town.
Here’s what’s on our list:
We’ve selected tours that showcase Kiruna’s stunning surroundings, the story behind its ongoing relocation, and its local heritage. From scenic journeys to Narvik, to guided city walks delving into the city’s past and future, each tour provides a different lens on Kiruna. Click the links to see full details and book your preferred experience.
1. From Kiruna: Narvik City and Fjord Day Trip
Rating: 4.6/5 (29 reviews)
Price: $232 per person
Duration: 8 hours
This day trip from Kiruna to Narvik is a wonderful way to stretch your legs and see more of Scandinavia’s rugged coastline. The journey takes you across the border into Norway, which is a highlight in itself—watch the scenery shift from Swedish forests to dramatic Norwegian fjords. The tour is packed with impressive viewpoints, including spots where you can admire the pristine fjord scenery and Arctic landscapes. It’s ideal if you’re keen on combining natural beauty with cultural insights, as your guide shares stories about Narvik’s significance in WWII and its strategic location.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. You’ll get time to explore Narvik’s streets, learn about its history, and enjoy the serenity of the fjord views. The reviews highlight its value: one guest appreciated the flexibility, saying, “I enjoyed the scenic ride but would rent a car next time for more stops.” Greg, the guide, is praised for his enthusiasm and knowledge, enhancing the experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day that combines stunning landscapes with cultural insights, all within an 8-hour window.
2. Kiruna: 3 hours city tour with guide
Rating: 5/5 (6 reviews)
Price: Not specified
Duration: 3 hours
If you’re after a quick and engaging introduction, the Kiruna: 3 hours city tour with guide hits the spot. This tour takes you through both old and new Kiruna, showing how the city is changing due to the ongoing relocation prompted by iron ore mining. It’s led by knowledgeable guides who explain why the city is moving and how the residents are adapting to this transformation.
Highlights include exploring the old town center, where remnants of the original streets and buildings tell a story of the past. Your guide will also point out the Monument of the Ancient Miners and the new Town Hall, illustrating how Kiruna’s future is being built alongside its history. A visit to the Kiruna Museum offers deeper context, including the story of the indigenous Sámi and Tornedalian heritage that shaped the region’s identity.
This tour suits travelers with limited time who want a meaningful overview without sacrificing depth. It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in understanding how a city adapts to major development projects.
Bottom Line: If you want a concise but insightful look at Kiruna’s past and future, this guided walk delivers for just a few hours.
3. From Abisko: Narvik City and Fjord Day Trip
Rating: Not specified
Price: $192 per person
Duration: 6 hours
For travelers staying in Abisko, this day trip to Narvik offers a similar scenic experience to the Kiruna trip but with a slightly shorter duration. It’s perfect if you’re based near the Abisko National Park and want to combine natural beauty with a quick visit across the border into Norway. The focus, like the Kiruna trip, is on admiring Arctic landscapes, fjords, and Narvik’s interesting mix of history and scenery.
While reviews are currently not available, the trip’s highlights include crossing the border and exploring viewpoints overlooking the fjord. It’s a practical choice for those who want to maximize scenic views without dedicating a full day, as the tour lasts about 6 hours.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent option for travelers in Abisko who want a taste of Narvik and its surroundings, with a shorter time commitment.
4. Kiruna: Private Guided City Tour with Museum Entry
Rating: Not specified
Price: Not specified
Duration: 2 hours
If you’re looking for a personalized experience, this Private Guided City Tour offers an intimate way to explore Kiruna. The tour visits key sites like the old town, the new city center, and the Kiruna Museum, providing a well-rounded view of the city’s history and future.
What sets this apart is the flexibility—your guide in English, Spanish, or Portuguese can tailor the experience to your interests. The tour also includes stops at notable landmarks like the Monument of the Ancient Miners and the relocated Kiruna Church. Pickup is available from multiple central locations, making it a convenient choice. If you want to understand the city’s ongoing transformation and see its landmarks firsthand, this is a great option.
This tour is best suited for travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive yet private overview. It provides deep insights without the crowds, perfect for those who prefer a more tailored experience.
Bottom Line: For a quick, private introduction to Kiruna’s story and sights, this tour offers a personalized and insightful experience.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Kiruna
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities: Do you want a scenic day trip that crosses borders? The Narvik trips are perfect for seeing Arctic fjords and learning regional history. Are you short on time but eager to get a sense of Kiruna’s evolution? The 3-hour city tour will give you a quick but meaningful overview. If a personalized, flexible experience appeals, the private city tour is the way to go.
Budget-wise, the day trips offer more extensive experiences at around $192–$232 per person, while the city tours range from quick 2–3 hour visits to more in-depth trips. Think about your fitness level—most tours involve walking, especially around the old town and museum areas. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season (winter for northern lights or summer for midnight sun).
Final Thoughts
Kiruna has a surprising diversity of ways to explore. For spectacular landscapes and a taste of border-crossing adventure, the Narvik day trips are top-notch. If you’re more interested in understanding how this Arctic city is changing and what makes it unique, a guided city tour offers insightful narratives in a short time. For those wanting a private experience tailored to their interests, the private city tour is ideal.
Whichever you choose, remember that early booking helps secure the best times, especially during summer and winter peak seasons. Kiruna’s landscape and stories are waiting—so plan ahead and enjoy your Arctic adventure.