Kirkenes
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.
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Things to do in Kirkenes
Top things to do in Kirkenes by wanderingwagars.com
Where to stay in Kirkenes
Best hotels in Kirkenes:
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Thon Hotel (luxury hotel)
Thon Hotel Kirkenes offers a great spot to explore the far north of Norway. Located right on the waterfront, many rooms provide stunning views over Bøkfjorden. The hotel has a modern, comfortable feel with spacious rooms featuring all the amenities you'd expect.
One of the highlights is definitely the breakfast - the buffet spread is impressive, with lots of local specialties to try. The staff are super friendly and helpful, always ready with recommendations for things to see and do in the area. The hotel organizes cool activities like dog sledding and snowmobile trips in winter.
It's just a short walk into the center of Kirkenes, so you can easily check out the town. After a day of exploring, the hotel restaurant is a nice place to relax and enjoy some northern Norwegian cuisine. All in all, Thon Hotel Kirkenes makes for a great base to experience this unique Arctic region.
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Scandic Kirkenes (medium range hotel)
Scandic Kirkenes is a convenient hotel located in the center of Kirkenes, just a short distance from the main pedestrian street, making it easy to explore the town. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, featuring free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and comfortable beds for a relaxing stay.
A highlight of this hotel is its indoor pool, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Guests also enjoy the breakfast buffet, which offers a wide variety of options to start the day. For those looking to get active, the hotel provides bikes to borrow and explore the area on two wheels. The friendly staff are always available to share tips on local attractions and activities, making it a great base for discovering Kirkenes and the surrounding region.
book now on booking.com