How to get to Arvidsjaur

A journey to Arvidsjaur is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of authentic Swedish Lapland, where endless forests meet crystal-clear lakes. This small yet vibrant town in Sweden attracts tourists with the chance to witness the Northern Lights and test their skills on winter tracks. You can reach here by a direct flight, or by enjoying the views from a bus or car window while driving through picturesque northern regions.

The fastest way to arrive is to take a flight to the local Arvidsjaur Airport (AJR). This compact aviation hub is well-connected to the city and allows travelers to save time by avoiding long transfers.

If a direct flight is unavailable, routes via neighboring airports can be considered. The nearest alternatives are Lycksele and Skellefteå, located just over one hundred kilometers away. Additionally, Luleå serves as a popular transfer hub, accepting a large number of domestic and international flights.

Rail connection to the town of Arvidsjaur is seasonal: the famous Inlandsbanan line runs here, used primarily by tourist trains during the summer period. There is no direct rail service for regular travel throughout the year.

The optimal option for travelers is to take a train to major hub stations, such as Luleå or Skellefteå. From there, the remaining part of the journey to the town can be comfortably covered by a regional bus.

Bus services connect the town with neighboring regions, though travel time depends on the route and connections. The fastest option is the trip from Skellefteå, which takes about 2.2 hours. The journey from coastal Luleå will require more time — approximately 4.8 hours.

It is worth noting that the route from Lycksele can be quite lengthy, taking about 6.3 hours, which is significantly longer than traveling by car. This is due to scheduling and route network specifics in the sparsely populated northern areas.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the ability to plan stops independently. The shortest route leads from Skellefteå: a road about 133 km long will take approximately 1.6 hours. A trip from Lycksele or Luleå will require slightly more time — about 1.8–1.9 hours.

Swedish roads are maintained in excellent condition, but in winter, it is crucial to ensure the vehicle is equipped with winter tyres. Taxis for intercity travel are available but can be expensive, so many tourists prefer car rentals.

Preparing for a trip to Arvidsjaur requires attention to detail, especially if you are travelling there during the cold season. Here are several recommendations to make your stay comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The main rule is layering. In winter, be sure to pack high-quality thermal underwear, a windproof jacket, and warm footwear with thick soles.
2. Transport: Public transport runs on a schedule, but intervals can be long. For trips into nature, it is best to rent a car.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Swedish Krona (SEK). Sweden is practically a cashless country; cards are accepted everywhere.
4. Health and Safety: The region is very safe, but in winter, one should be wary of frostbite and icy conditions. Pharmacies are available in the centre, but it is better to carry specific medications with you.
5. Communication: Almost all locals speak fluent English, so there will be no issues with communication.
6. Local Etiquette: Swedes value personal space and reserve. It is customary to remove your shoes when entering a private home.
7. What to Avoid: Do not walk on lake ice without checking its thickness and be cautious on the roads due to the possible appearance of reindeer and moose.
8. Extra Tip: Install an app to track the Northern Lights — on clear winter nights, there are excellent chances to witness this natural wonder here.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on the beauty of northern nature and local hospitality.