Practical information

Temperature and climate

Kiruna, located 200 km above the arctic circle, have a subarctic climate. Temperatures may differ quite heavily depending on where in the municipality you are. In central Kiruna, located on the mountain Haukivaara 500 above sea level it is usually -12 to -20 degrees in winter, while Jukkasjärvi in ​​the valley of the Torne river, two kilometers east, often has below -30 degrees. In summer, the temperature is usually between 10 and 20 degrees.

Normally, the snow will come to stay during the latter part of October and then melt down in late May.

Abisko has less precipitation than anywhere else in Sweden, which makes it a great place for Aurora viewing, while Riksgränsen 3 kilometers west has the most precipitation in Sweden and therefore can offer skiing even during Midsummer!

Currency exchange and cards

It is not possible to exchange foreign currency to Swedish kronor in Kiruna. Almost all companies accept card payments in Kiruna. Most businesses does not accept cash anymore. There are 3 ATMs in central Kiruna and 2 ATMs at the Coop shopping area.

Shops opening hours

Normal business hours in Kiruna is 10.00-18.00 Monday-Friday, 10.00-14.00 Saturday. Sundays closed. Grocery stores have more generous opening hours, often 08.00-22.00 every day, with some exceptions.

Alcoholic beverages

You must be over 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages at bars and restaurants.  You must be over 20 years to buy wine and liquor which is only sold at Systembolaget in Kiruna city centre.

Emergency/Police

The emergency number in Sweden is 112. For non-emergencies contact the police at 114 14.

Daylight

11 Dec – 1 Jan no sunrise (polar night)
15 Feb: up 07.57, down 15.50, daylight 8 hours.
15 March: up 06.01, down 17.36, daylight 11,5 hours.
26 May – 18 July no sunset (Midnight sun)
15 Aug: up 04.00, down 21.23, daylight 17,5 hours
15 Oct: up 07.42, down 17.05, daylight 9,5 hours
15 Nov: up 08.48, down 13.56, daylight 5 hours

Note that these times and dates are approximate and can vary from year to year.

Post office

Post services can be found in some grocery stores such as ICA and Coop. Close to Kiruna city center is also Stop22.

Language

In Kiruna municipality there are four official languages:  Swedish, Finnish, Sámi and Meänkieli. In Kiruna most people speak English.

Internet and Wifi

Free Wifi at the tourist center, the airport and the bus station. Most accommodations, cafes and restaurants offer free wifi.

Petrol stations

Outside Kiruna center you can find petrol stations in: Abisko, Svappa­vaara, Vittangi, Övre Soppero and Karesuando.

Tips

Giving tips is not common or something that is expected of you in Sweden, but if you are very satisfied with a visit to a restaurant or bar, some people choose to give tips. Normally between 5-15% of the total amount. Or just round up to what feels comfortable.