Welcome to Arctic City Piteå - where nature, culture, and adventure meet at the edge of the Arctic Circle
In winter, Piteå transforms into a snowy wonderland with the Frozen Sea, glistening landscapes, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing across the sky. In summer, the town comes alive under the Midnight Sun, offering bright nights, long sandy beaches, and magical nature that invites exploration and relaxation.
Located on the Gulf of Bothnia, just 900 km north of Stockholm and 100 km south of the Arctic Circle, Piteå is a destination that blends Swedish charm with Arctic adventure.
Rich history & breathtaking views
Founded in 1621, Piteå has survived both a devastating fire in 1666 and a military incursion in 1721, after which only the historic wooden church remained standing. Today, the town square still retains its 17th-century layout, making it one of only two such squares in Sweden.
Visitors can enjoy everything from spa treatments and golf to icebreaker tours and dog sledding in winter.
Winter sports enthusiasts will love Piteå Ice Arena, a unique outdoor venue created each year on the frozen waters of Nördfjärden. Easily accessible from both Norrstrand and Strömbacka, the arena features groomed trails for ice skating, skiing, and walking. Traditional Swedish kicksleds are available to borrow for free, allowing visitors to enjoy natural rest areas along the Frozen Sea. It’s a beloved local tradition that offers a magical way to experience the Arctic outdoors.
A vibrant urban experience
The town center features cozy cafés, bakeries, and a wide variety of restaurants offering both traditional Swedish dishes and international cuisine. Shopping in Piteå blends small-town charm with variety, offering everything from handcrafted goods to everyday essentials. Many shops highlight local products and personal service. Music and cultural events are integral parts of the local culture, with live performances, festivals, and community events throughout the year.
Whether you're chasing the aurora borealis, hiking the Solander Trail, browsing local crafts, or simply enjoying a coffee by the sea, Piteå offers unforgettable experiences in every season.
The event town of the north
Piteå entices with something for all ages and tastes. The town hosts annual events attracting many thousands of visitors as well as smaller local events. Star performers like WeiWei and Barbara Hendricks are just a couple to have performed in Studio Acusticum, one of Europe's most modern and world class concert halls. In Piteå you find the large arenas are supplemented by the smaller.
Pite Havsbad
Pite Havsbad is one of the biggest tourism and conference centres in northern Europe. Whether you'relooking for relaxation, excitement, enjoyment or rewarding meetings, we have the facilities all year round.
There is something for everyone whatever the season. Lazy days on the beach are spiced up with activities such as the Amusement Park, Dinosaur Land, golf, go-carts, beach volleyball and street basketball. As for winter time, we recommend a magnificent tour on the icebreaker Arctic Explorer, a guaranteed memory for life!
Northern lights & the Midnight Sun
The world-famous light phenomena the Northern lights, also called the aurora borealis, a phenomenon that occurs due to the earth's magnetism, especially in the north on winter nights. Bright nights occur from late May to early August.
Piteå - Easy to love