Kirkenes

Kirkenes sits at Norway's northeastern tip, right where the country meets Russia and Finland. This small town might seem quiet at first glance, but it has a fascinating story to tell. During World War II, it was bombed over 300 times, making it the second-most bombed place in Europe after Malta. Today, it's a peaceful border town with a unique mix of Norwegian, Russian, and Sami influences.

The town serves as the final stop on the famous Hurtigruten coastal voyage, marking where the ship turns around to head back south. This gives Kirkenes a special place in Norway's maritime tradition. The surrounding Arctic landscape is stark and beautiful, with the Barents Sea creating a dramatic backdrop.

Winter transforms Kirkenes into a snow-covered wonderland where you can experience the polar night - weeks when the sun doesn't rise above the horizon. The Northern Lights often dance across the dark sky during this time. Summer brings the midnight sun, with 24 hours of daylight that totally changes the feel of the place.

The town has strong ties to its mining past, and the local history museum tells stories of both the mining industry and the area's war experiences. The nearby border with Russia has shaped much of Kirkenes' identity, creating a fascinating cultural blend that you won't find elsewhere in Norway.