Haparanda is the easternmost city in Sweden. It is situated on the country border towards the charming Finnish town of Tornea. This is the perfect spot to experience northern lights in winter, or see the midnight sun in high summer.
Go for a weekend trip to Haparanda in wintertime and explore a true wonderland of frozen seas and shooting stars. If you are lucky, you may witness the northern lights in Tornedalen. Wintertime also equals traditional sauna culture - so why not try a smoke sauna or a wood stove sauna? The Swedish Sauna Academy is an association that has its home in Kukkolaforsen, where there is also a sauna museum, perfect for those who want to learn more about this traditional activity.
However, Haparanda is just as exciting to explore during the summer. Visitors can go fishing in Torne River, the largest river in Norrbotten, known for its abundance of whitefish and salmon. You will definitely enjoy the midnight sun over the breathtaking island landscape. The Haparanda Archipelago is Sweden’s northernmost archipelago consisting of 600 islands and islets. These include real national park gems with seals and a diverse bird life.
During your holidays to Haparanda you can go for an unforgettable boat trip. The main island Sandskar provides the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful break. If you are a landlubber, you may prefer to take on Haparanda Vandringsled, 15 kilometers of stunning hiking trail through the rugged wilderness. There are still watch towers and other old relics from the long period of high military preparedness during WWII.
Choose the roads marked Europavag 4 to get to Haparanda by car. Travel to the international Lulea Airport and then get the coach. If you want to cross over to the Finnish side of the border, visit the neighbouring town of Tornea, but note that there is an hour time difference between Sweden and Finland.
Package trips to Haparanda are ideal if you want to explore the great pine forests and hills covered in heather and fern. You can go for boat trips, try fishing or just take a relaxing sauna. Haparanda blends Swedish and Finnish cultures, creating a unique character. Book a trip and find out what all the fuss is about for yourself.