The thriving city of Kiruna owes a lot to its iron-ore mine. LKAB, the owners of this site, have been mining here for over a century and have recently opened the mine up to guided tours. In this town you will be hard pushed to find a man-made sight that is not somehow related to the regions key mining operation.

Despite this industrial presence the native Sámi culture remains strong in Kiruna. On your tour of the city the main church is open if you want to learn more about traditional Sámi life. Alternatively take a traditional mode of transport by dog or reindeer sled out into the artic wilderness or embrace the towns more modern side and travel via snowmobile.

With Jukkasjärvi's Icehotel and Abisko National Park nearby, this is an excellent base from which to explore the surrounding wilderness. Whether taking a cable car to the heights of Nuolja Mountain, traveling on to Riksgränsen ski resort or admiring the unique mineshaft design of Kiruna's clock tower, this city offers the perfect blend of mountain wilderness and modern infrastructure.