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Kirkenes

Nestled in the Arctic Circle, Kirkenes is a charming town in Norway where the northern lights dance across the sky. Explore the stunning landscapes by dog sled or visit the nearby Russian border. Don't forget to warm up with a traditional meal of bacalao before heading out to hunt for trolls in the surrounding forest.

Recommendations

Culture4.4/5

Varanger Museum, avd. Sør-Varanger

Step into Varanger Museum in Kirkenes for a cultural journey through the history of Sør-Varanger. Explore exhibits on mining, Sami culture, and WWII. Don't miss the outdoor displays showcasing traditional buildings and boats. A must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike!

Eat$$$4/5

Ritz

Looking for a cozy place to rest your head in Kirkenes, Norway? Look no further than Ritz on Dr. Wessels gate 17! With comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location near the city center, this hotel is the perfect spot for your Norwegian adventures. Don't forget to grab a bite at their on-site restaurant!

Eat$$$4.7/5

Aurora Restobar

Nestled in the Arctic town of Kirkenes, Aurora Restobar is a cozy spot to warm up and refuel after a day of exploration. The menu boasts traditional Norwegian dishes with a modern twist, and the friendly staff will make you feel right at home. Don't miss the chance to catch the northern lights from their panoramic windows!

Eat$$$4.4/5

Surf & Turf Restaurant AS

Looking for a taste of the ocean and the pasture? Look no further than Surf & Turf Restaurant AS in Kirkenes, Norway. Located on Dr. Wessels gate 2, this lively spot serves up the best of both worlds with a variety of seafood and meat dishes that will satisfy every craving. Don't miss out on this culinary adventure!

Stays

Stay4.35/5

Thon Hotel Kirkenes

Get ready to be charmed by Thon Hotel Kirkenes in Norway! Located in the heart of the picturesque town of Kirkenes, this cozy hotel offers comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast buffet, and a convenient location near all the best restaurants and attractions. Say hei to relaxation and hygge at this lovely hotel!

Stay3.95/5

Scandic Kirkenes

Step into the arctic wonderland of Kirkenes and stay at Scandic Kirkenes! This cozy hotel on Kongens gate offers comfy rooms, delicious breakfast, and stunning views of the surrounding snow-covered landscapes. Take a dip in the indoor pool or relax in the sauna after a day of exploring the northern wilderness. A perfect basecamp for your Arctic adventures!

Stay2.55/5

Barents Breakfast Hotell AS

Looking for a cozy stay in Kirkenes, Norway? Look no further than Barents Breakfast Hotell AS! Located at Presteveien 3, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast spread, and friendly staff ready to help you make the most of your Arctic adventure. Don't miss out on this gem!

Things To Do
Provided by

5/5

2 h 30 mins

Spy tour to the Norwegian Russian Border by Minivan

Explore the hidden stories of espionage in Arctic Norway on this unique tour near the Russian border. Delve into Cold War relics and modern espionage tales as you pass key locations linked to spy swaps and border defectors. Your expert guide will share real-life accounts of intelligence operations while you navigate through military watchtowers and docks. This tour offers a rare glimpse into one of NATO's secretive frontiers, making it an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. - Duration: 2.5 hours - Small group size: Max. 7 people - Accessible to families and individuals with easy physical requirements - Transportation included; bring your EU ID card or passport

$183.34

5/5

3 h

Russian Border Hike in Kirkenes Explore Norway Frontier

Discover the only guided hike in Norway that takes you directly to the border markers between Norway and Russia. This unique trek through birch forests and open tundra offers insight into the region's Cold War history and stunning views of the Pasvik River and the Boris Gleb Church across the border. With opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy a hot drink at a viewpoint, this 3-hour tour is perfect for those seeking adventure and knowledge in a small group setting. - Pickup from Kirkenes is included, making it convenient for visitors. - Hike to the official Norwegian–Russian border markers - Learn about WWII and Cold War history, contemporary geopolitics and local culture from your guide - Enjoy scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities - Suitable for moderate fitness levels - The morning tour is compatible with Hurtigruten and Havila schedules

$183.34

5/5

3 h 30 mins

Russian Border Snowshoe Hike

Explore the intriguing history of the Norwegian-Russian border on this engaging snowshoe hike. Traverse the scenic 3 km loop through the Arctic wilderness, passing historical sites like the old guard tower and the iconic Boris Gleb church. Learn about Cold War tensions and observe modern border crossings while standing just meters from Russia. Perfect for those with moderate fitness levels, this tour welcomes both beginners and seasoned hikers alike, requiring no prior snowshoeing experience. - Scenic 3.5-hour snowshoe hike from Kirkenes - Visit historic border markers and learn about local history - Suitable for all fitness levels; no prior experience necessary - Includes warm drinks, snacks, and snowshoes with a knowledgeable guide

$204.91

4.5/5

20 mins

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Kirkenes: City between East and West

Kirkenes has experienced an incredible journey through the ages. On this audio tour you’ll come to know this beautiful city’s proud history, from the time of the Skolt Sami language, to its evolution into a mining town, to the destruction of the city during World War 2. Today Kirkenes is an international melting pot that enjoys a friendly coexistence with those across the border in Russia. In this VoiceMap-story from Kirkenes, join Lars Engerengen on a tour through the history of Kirkenes. He will guide you from the port to the church in the middle of the city centre. You’ll hear about the city during the war, the Sydvaranger Mine Company and some Russian spies. Most of all you’ll hear about the friendly relationship between the Russians and the Norwegians. The tour is ready whenever you are and the audio plays automatically at exactly the right time and place using your smartphone's GPS and the VoiceMap mobile app, which also works offline.

$6.99

12 h 30 mins

King Crab Safari and visit a Snowhotel from Saariselkä

This Arctic King Crab Safari offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to catch and feast on one of the ocean’s most prized delicacies in its natural habitat. Whether cruising on a RIB boat in summer or gliding across the frozen sea on a snowmobile sledge in winter, the experience adapts to the season, giving you an unforgettable Arctic adventure. Combined with a visit to the magical Snowhotel and a freshly prepared King Crab meal served in a cozy seaside restaurant, this tour is the perfect blend of nature, culture, and cuisine curated just for you.

$752.44

3 h

Private Shore Tour: Pasvik Valley & National Park from Kirkenes

Discover one of Europe’s last wilderness areas on this 3-hour private shore tour from Kirkenes Cruise Terminal. With dramatic views along the Russian border and the untouched beauty of the Siberian Taiga forest, the Pasvik Valley offers a rare combination of stunning landscapes and fascinating history. Travel in comfort with your private local guide and vehicle, enjoying personalized commentary and several scenic stops. Learn about the unique flora and fauna, including the brown bear population, and explore the cultural heritage of this remote region. This short yet immersive experience is perfect for nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

$1,038.14

4 h

Summer-Autumn Private Shore Tour: Arctic Beach Adventure

Discover the raw beauty of Norway’s far north on this exclusive summer–autumn private shore tour. Travel through striking fjords and the oldest mountains in Norway before reaching the tiny village of Grense Jakobselv, located on the very edge of Europe. Here, the Arctic Ocean meets a golden sandy beach, just across a narrow river from Russia. Along the way, admire King Oscar II’s chapel from 1869, the vicar’s house, and fertile valleys that contrast with dramatic coastal scenery. At the beach, enjoy a hot beverage, stroll along the sand, and, if you’re daring enough, dip into the icy Arctic waters. This unique journey offers nature, history, and unforgettable views of the High North. Available: 01.06 – 30.09