Photo by Shutterstock
Welcome to Kirkenes
Located in the far northeastern corner of Norway, Kirkenes offers a unique blend of Arctic experiences, rich history, and cultural diversity. Sitting at the crossroads of Norway, Russia, and Finland, Kirkenes is a place where cultures mix, history comes alive, and nature puts on a show like nowhere else.
Despite its small size, Kirkenes is surprisingly multicultural, shaped by its proximity to both Finland and Russia. Walking through town, you’ll notice signs in multiple languages, reflecting the area's deep cultural connections. This unique blend of influences is also found in local traditions, architecture, and even the food scene.
A landscape like no other
Kirkenes isn’t just remote, it’s beautifully, breathtakingly remote. Surrounded by fjords, rugged tundra, and dense forests, this is a place where the wilderness truly feels wild.
In winter, a thick blanket of snow transforms the landscape into a frozen fairytale. Experience the thrill of dog sledding through a silent, snow-covered wilderness or speed across the tundra on a snowmobile.
While in summer, the midnight sun turns night into day, allowing for endless outdoor adventures like hiking, boat tours and fishing. Wildlife roams freely, from moose wandering through the woods to sea eagles soaring over the fjords. It’s untouched nature at its finest.
Photo by Snowhotel Kirkenes
Photo by NTC
Taste the Arctic
In Kirkenes, food isn't just about taste, it’s about experience. Here, Arctic cuisine is as wild and untamed as the landscape itself. King crab is the undisputed star, pulled straight from the icy waters and served fresh, its sweet, delicate meat a true delicacy. The Barents Sea provides an abundance of fresh fish, while inland, reindeer meat and wild berries bring flavors inspired by the region’s Sami heritage.
Dining here is as much about the experience as it is about the food itself, with many meals prepared outdoors in the Arctic wilderness or in cozy wooden lodges where the warmth of an open fire adds to the atmosphere.
The last piece of Norway
Kirkenes was the final part of Norway to officially become Norwegian. In 1826, borders were drawn between Russia, Finland, and Norway, disrupting the Eastern Sámi way of life as their lands were divided. Until 1914, Russian Orthodox priests visited the Sámi communities, but over time, they became integrated into Norwegian culture. Today, traces of this unique history still shape Kirkenes.
At the edge of the North
This isn’t just another stop on a Norwegian itinerary—it’s a destination that stays with you. This is where the Arctic comes alive, offering the thrill of racing across frozen landscapes on a dogsled, the indulgence of feasting on freshly caught king crab, and the magic of watching the northern lights ignite the night sky.
It’s a place where untamed wilderness, rich culture, and adventure intertwine, creating an experience that is raw and real.
Photo by Trym Ivar Bergsmo
Photo by Snowhotel Kirkenes
Photo by Snowhotel Kirkenes
Photo by Snowhotel Kirkenes
Photo by Bård Løken
FAQS
Here you´ll find answers to some of the most common questions we get asked.
A Fjord Travel Norway tour is the perfect way to explore the very best of Norway at your own pace. Our self-guided tours combine scenic public transport—such as buses, boats, and trains—with carefully selected accommodations and unique experiences.
Each itinerary is thoughtfully crafted for convenience, but also offers the flexibility to personalize your journey. You can easily add activities or upgrade your accommodations to suit your preferences when booking. With everything you need organized in one seamless itinerary, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy an unforgettable Norwegian adventure.
We strive to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies if informed in advance.
Please remember to specify your dietary restrictions or allergies when placing your order in the checkout field called "Order comment". If you forget to do so, contact us as soon as possible and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
No, this is not included unless specified.
For the best time for winter activities, we recommend traveling from mid-November to the end of March. The summer in Norway is beautiful and best enjoyed from May to the end of September.
Updated information can be checked at the following link.
We accept payments through Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Additionally, we offer a flexible deposit option where you can pay 20% of the total amount upfront. The remaining balance is due either 45 or 65 days before your departure, depending on the specifics of your booking.
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