Photo: Lena Nilsson

Once called the most underestimated town in Sweden, Lulea is situated on a peninsula where Lule Bay meets the Gulf of Bothnia in the northern part of the country. As one of Sweden’s three sunniest summer cities with 654 hours of sunshine along with 120 km of cycle paths, and its archipelago of 1312 islands, Lulea is ideal to visit between the warmest months June and August.

Visitors with an interest in culture should also stop by the County Museum of Norrbotten, with three floors of interesting exhibitions and about 30 art and cultural history exhibitions a year, and Kulturens Hus, a cultural house with the city library, art hall, tourist bureau, concert hall, restaurant with Lulea’s best view and a culture café.

Home to the region’s leading domestic airport (Lulea-Arlanda is Sweden’s largest national flight), getting to Lulea is quick and easy.

Where to Stay

Best Western Arctic Hotel

For a central and comfortable stay, Best Western Arctic Hotel is situated in a quiet quarter a stone’s throw from the railway station, close to shops, restaurants and nightlife.

The hotel has 94 rooms with 160 beds. My single room on the second floor had, like all rooms, bathroom with shower, telephone, TV, free Wi-Fi via the Cloud, wooden floors, and fresh, modern interior with a homely feeling in focus. The lack of wardrobe didn’t matter as there were hangers by the door. Although small at first glance, the space felt well thought-out and cozy.

Those wanting something more spacious have several large double rooms to choose from. Many rooms were renovated in 2006/2007. The red-themed room below is a clear favorite.

After a day outside in the sun, the sixth-floor and gym sauna is very appreciated. As is the groundfloor a la carte restaurant Köpmannens Kök, where guests can grill their own food on a 450°C lava stone plate.

The focus lies on seasonal produce and well-prepared, carefully composed food with the ambition of satisfying the sight as well as the taste buds. The menu is renewed every month and at least one dish is vegetarian. In summer, dinners are well spent in the restaurant’s courtyard.