Map of Kirkenes, Norway

🌲 What to do in Kirkenes

Embark on unforgettable adventures in Kirkenes, where arctic experiences, cultural discoveries, and natural wonders await. From dog sledding under the northern lights to exploring Sami heritage, Kirkenes offers a unique blend of activities for every traveler.

• Best Budget Activity in Kirkenes:

  Visit to Grenselandmuseet (Borderland Museum): Immerse yourself in the history of the region at this museum showcasing the border between Norway, Russia, and Finland.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Kirkenes:

  Husky Safari: Experience the thrill of mushing your own husky team through the stunning Arctic landscapes surrounding Kirkenes.

• Best Luxury Activity in Kirkenes:

  King Crab Safari: Join a guided tour to catch and taste the famed king crab, a local delicacy, directly from the Arctic waters.

🍽️ Where to eat in Kirkenes

Discover the culinary delights of Kirkenes, where fresh seafood, local game dishes, and traditional Norwegian fare await you. Make sure to try the king crab, Arctic char, and reindeer dishes for an authentic taste of the region.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Kirkenes:

  Café Corner•$-$$:

  Cozy café serving affordable Norwegian classics and pastries.

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Kirkenes:

  Barents Bar & Mathus•$$-$$$:

  Modern Nordic cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Kirkenes:

  En To Tre Restaurant•$$$-$$$$:

  Fine dining experience featuring innovative dishes blending Norwegian and international influences.

• Best Budget Bar in Kirkenes:

  Ritz Pub•$:

  Craft beers and signature cocktails in a vibrant setting.

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Kirkenes:

  Båthuset Mat & Vin•$$-$$$:

  Wine selection paired with sharing platters of local cheeses and charcuterie.

• Best Luxury Bar in Kirkenes:

  Hurtigruten Sjøstuer Cocktail Bar•$$$:

  Premium spirits and signature cocktails overlooking the Arctic waters.

🏰 What to see in Kirkenes

Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Kirkenes through its iconic landmarks that showcase the city's Arctic charm and cultural heritage. From historical sites to modern architectural marvels, Kirkenes has a tapestry of attractions waiting to be explored.

• Name: Andersgrotta WWII Shelter

  Explore this underground shelter used during World War II, offering insights into Kirkenes' wartime history and the resilience of its inhabitants.

• Kirkenes Snow Hotel

  Experience the magical world of ice and snow at this unique hotel, complete with intricately carved icy rooms and an ice bar.

• Pasvik Nature Reserve

  Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of Pasvik, a protected area teeming with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts.

• Border Area Monument

  Visit this significant monument marking the tri-border area between Norway, Finland, and Russia, symbolizing unity and cooperation among nations.

• Storfjell Hill

  Hike up Storfjell Hill for panoramic views of Kirkenes and the surrounding fjords, offering a breathtaking vantage point to admire the Arctic landscapes.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Kirkenes

Indulge in a unique shopping experience in Kirkenes, where charming boutiques, local artisans, and specialty stores offer a treasure trove of Arctic-inspired souvenirs and authentic Norwegian craftsmanship. From traditional Sami handcrafts to contemporary Nordic designs, Kirkenes beckons with shopping delights for every taste and budget.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Kirkenes:

  Kirkenes Handelspark: Explore this shopping center for affordable fashion, accessories, and household items, perfect for budget-conscious shoppers looking for bargains.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Kirkenes:

  Arctic Gallery Studio: Discover a curated selection of locally made arts, crafts, and gifts at this studio, showcasing the talents of Arctic artisans in beautifully designed products.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Kirkenes:

  Kirkenes Snowhotel Gift Shop: Browse through luxurious Arctic-themed gifts, signature items, and unique souvenirs at the Snowhotel's boutique shop, offering exquisite mementos for discerning travelers.

🚎 Getting Around Kirkenes

• Public Transport

  In Kirkenes, public transportation options are limited mainly to buses. Buses are the primary mode of public transport connecting various parts of the city. The buses are operated by Snelandia, offering a convenient way to navigate Kirkenes. The fare is typically affordable with prices starting at around 30 NOK for a single journey. The bus schedule can vary but generally runs frequently during weekdays, with reduced service on weekends and public holidays.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  - Kirkenes Airport: The Kirkenes Airport, Høybuktmoen, serves as the main transportation hub for travelers flying into Kirkenes. It is located around 15 km west of the city center. - Bus Terminal: The Kirkenes Bus Terminal is centrally located in the city, making it a convenient hub for bus connections within Kirkenes and to neighboring towns.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Visitors to Kirkenes can easily rent a car from well-known providers such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar. Prices for car rentals can start from about 400 NOK per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For those looking to explore Kirkenes at a leisurely pace, bicycle rentals are also available at select outlets. Prices for renting a bicycle can range from 150 NOK per day.