Welcome to the end of Norway! Kirkenes is only a short drive from the Russian border and is further east than all of Finland, Istanbul and St. Petersburg.
About Kirkenes
Latitude: 69.4 degrees north
Population: 3,500
Sami Name: Girkonjárga
Hottest Month: July
Coldest Month: February
Wettest Month: October
Windiest Month: February
Annual Precipitation: 228mm
Sør-Varanger Municipality
In this Travel Guide...
Map of Kirkenes
Uniquely Kirkenes
Here are some things that you must do and try in Kirkenes
Monument
Monument to the Soviet Soldier
Not many places in the world have monuments for Soviet soldiers these days, least of all in Norway. But Kirkenes was liberated by the Soviets, hence the memorial.
Historic Church
Kong Oscar II Chapel
Make the one hour drive out to the border with Russia (you will be able to see Russia!) to visit this unique little chapel built to represent Norwegian sovereignty over the area.
Follow my road-trip guides for scenic trips around Kirkenes
The E6 Highway from Narvik to Kirkenes
The E6 highway is the longest highway running through Norway, beginning south of Oslo and ending at Kirkenes. This stretch of the E6 covers the entire length of Arctic Norway, passing by and including some spectacular remote places.
The area was Kirkenes was a common Norwegian-Russian district until 1826, when the current border was settled. The first church was built in Kirkenes in 1862.
Kirkenes was heavily damaged during World War II and the entire town had to be rebuilt.
The majority of people in Kirkenes are of a Norwegian background, and a minority are Sami. About 500 people are recent Russian immigrants.
Since Kirkenes is close to the Russian border, this has had a big influence on the local economy. Ever since the invasion Ukraine, Russia has been largely cut off from Kirkenes and this has had a major impact on the economy.
Just outside of Kirkenes is the Garrison Sor-Varanger, a large military base.
Travel Information
Getting Here
Fly: Kirkenes Airport has direct flights to Oslo as well as flights to many of the small fishing villages.
Drive: Kirkenes is located at the end of the E6 highway.
Train: No train access
Ferry: Kirkenes is the turning point for Norway’s coastal ferry.
Getting Around
Kirkenes is walkable.
Shops
Places to Eat
Cafes & Bakeries
Quick Bites
Reasonable Restaurants
High End & Unique Eats
Places to Stay
All my hotel recommendations are based on research and experience. I don’t recommend somewhere unless I think it is wonderful! The Hidden North focuses on accommodation that provides good quality for price or offer local or unique experiences.