Get behind the wheel of your rental car and explore the breath-taking scenery of the northernmost part of Europe.
Swedish Lapland is the home of the midnight sun, the Aurora Borealis and, according to legend, Santa Claus himself.
Chase the Northern Lights
Kiruna is one of the best places in Sweden to see the Northern Lights, thanks to the town’s proximity to the north pole. Head away from the center to find a great spot – there are many local camps and remote mountain ridges where you can see green and pink light dancing across the sky.
According to the traditions of the native Sámi people, these breath-taking natural wonders should be treated with reverence because of their mystic links with fortunes and the weather.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and sightings are not guaranteed, but visiting between September and March will give you the best chance of spotting them. Mount Luossavaara is a great spot nearby to capture the most intense displays, which usually happen just before midnight.
Dedicated Aurora-chasers can even drive to the village of Abisko – at around one hour north of Kiruna, it lies right in the ‘auroral oval’.
See the Kiruna Pastorat
This rustic yet beautiful church is one of Sweden’s largest and most impressive buildings made from wood, and it’s a true sight to behold.
The Pastorat looks magnificent in summer, when the triangular red roof stands out against a bright blue sky. In winter, a dusting of sugar-like snow is a permanent fixture on the slanting structure.
Step inside to feast your eyes on the incredible Art Nouveau altar, and carved interiors that stir the soul. According to a poll by the Swedish Ministry of Culture, this is the country’s most popular building from before 1950.
Outdoor activities and National Parks
Kiruna is a haven for lovers of winter sports. Slalom skiing is a major highlight from November to April, with the legendary ski resort of Riksgränsen within easy reach by rental car. Go off-piste, try daredevil rugged slopes or simply wind through the winter wilderness.
Try snowmobiling to see more of the hills around Kiruna – Luossavaara has its own ski slopes which transform into incredible hiking grounds in summer. In Kiruna, you can even bring the outside in by staying at the glorious Ice Hotel.
The landscape around Kiruna will make your vacation a dream from start to finish, but visiting a National Park is even more special. Abisko is a breathtaking world of lakes, mountains, birch trees and colourful tundra flowers. Head to the Naturum visitor center in your rental car to learn more about the canyon.
Husky rides
Just south of Kiruna, you can take part in the quintessential Arctic experience.
Riding on a sled pulled by husky dogs is one of those life-changing memories you will savor forever. Book onto a tour to enjoy a package complete with ice fishing near the Kebnekaise, Sweden’s tallest mountain.
Car rental in Kiruna unlocks access to Sweden’s mesmerizing Arctic region – allowing you to drive into some incredible experiences.