July - The archipelago

Firstly, I would like to draw attention to Luleå's archipelago. With about 1312 islands you will find numerous opportunities to spend relaxing summer days. There are public boats going, but there is also the possibility to anchor with your own boat. Thus, you are even more independent to explore the beautiful nature at your own pace and stay as long as you want. You can either camp or rent cottages and simply relax, enjoy the silence and come to rest.

By the way, the archipelago can also be visited in winter. Dare, and drive with the car over the ice!

August – Moose & Reindeer Park Cape Wild

Arriving in Luleå, one of the first things I did, was to take the ten kilometers ride to the park Cape Wild. Sadly, there's no public bus going to the location, but it is worth the bicycle ride! In small groups (two-20 people) you can feed and pet the mousses and reindeers. In a cozy hut, the owner gives a short overview over the habits and characteristics of the mooses around the year. When you plan your trip, please notice, that there will be a period from one-three months at autumn, where no visit is possible, due to the newborn animals. 

September – Nature reserve Gammelstadsviken

The nature reserve, located right next to Porsön, the quarter with Luleå's university, is really worth a walk! A hiking trail with about six kilometers from Porsön to UNESCO heritage Gammelstad leads around a lake. If you are interested in bird watching, or just enjoying nature, there is a tower located near the lake. You'll also find barbeque places at several spots (like all over Sweden).

October – Candy Store

The candy store may not be unique to Luleå because they are available everywhere in Sweden. But since we don't have anything like it in Germany and I experienced it here for the first time, the 'pick and mix'-culture is also one of my highlights. Armed with a bag and a ladle, you can choose of a wide range of sweets and buy as many different sweets in different quantity as you want. 

November – Norrbottens Museum

Dark days? No snow yet? No idea where to go? Norrbottens Museum is always a nice idea. Without an entry fee you can discover the history of Sweden and Norrbotten, from ancient basket-weaving to women in the history of Norrbotten, to the current art and music scene - there is sure something for everyone. Enjoy your Fika (coffee with something sweet, e.g., a cinnamon bun) and discover changing exhibitions. 

December – Gammelstad 

As mentioned before, near to Luleå, you'll find the UNESCO heritage Gammelstad, which is lovely in every season. In the nearby open-air museum, attractions are organized all around the year. From a bonfire (Valborg) at the end of April, to Midsummer celebrations to a cozy Christmas market. But even without special attractions, Gammelstad as well as Friluftsmuseet Hägnan are worth a visit!

January – Kulturens hus

Here you must go! In addition to the tourist information and the municipal library, this building houses a restaurant with a wonderful view over Luleå's harbor. You can also visit changing art exhibitions, as well as various events, which can be found on the website of the Kulturens hus. So, if the weather is not so cooperative, this is a perfect place to hold up!

February – Ice track

Ever since I was a little girl, my grandparents have been telling me about the cold winters in Germany, how the Baltic Sea was frozen over, and they hiked long distances across the ice. Ever since those stories, a hike across the frozen sea has been on my bucket list. This winter it finally happened: On the ice track of the city of Luleå, weekly controlled and officially opened and closed, I was able to fulfill my childhood dream. You can explore the 10-kilometer track on foot, with a sled, with skates, by bike or even as a jogger. And, as almost everywhere in Sweden, there is also the possibility to have a barbeque. Try it yourself!

March – Teknikens Hus

You'll find this museum in Porsön, next to the A-building of the University. It is full of attractions for people of every age (student don't have to pay an entry fee!). You can sit in a simulator for truck driving or airplane flying, or you can enjoy AR glasses. Within this building you have a nice restaurant, with changing menu. They offer two different meals every day, cooked with local ingredients.

April – Pontusbadet 

Thanks to this indoor swimming pool, I was able to follow my hobby all around the year. The large window front facing the harbor creates a feeling of freedom and being outside, although you are swimming in a hall. Resting places are available, as well as a small pool for babies. My personal highlight: the sauna, which is integrated in the area of the showers and is included in the fee of the pool. At two different temperature levels, you can rest and relax after swimming. Great! 

May – Walks along the water

If you take a look at the map of Luleå, you will see it is surrounded by water. Whether along lakes, rivers or the sea: there are beautiful paths, for walking, jogging or cycling. Almost everywhere there are playgrounds for children and at many places gymnastics equipment has been built. In addition, there are many benches to rest, enjoying the view, or for a picnic. And, of course, barbeque places have been provided.

June – Luleå's City Center

As already mentioned, Luleå is a city with small-town charm. Nevertheless, you have everything you need. In the city center you can find various restaurants and cafés, supermarkets and candy stores, a small city park, a theatre, two cinemas and many other things. If you are in the pedestrian zone, the train station is not even ten minutes away, and public transport (buses) is also available. With these buses, it takes only 25 minutes to get to the airport (35 minutes from the airport to university).

In summary, I love living in Luleå! Here's so much to see and to do, no matter which time of the year you are here, or what age you are. Come and see for yourself!