How long does it take to drive from Kirkenes or Vardø to Vadsø?
Last updated: 8 October 2026
Short answer
From Kirkenes town centre it is 173 km, about 2 hours 40 minutes in summer. From Vardø it is 74 km, about 1 hour 10 minutes. In winter it takes longer, and in bad weather the roads may have convoy driving or be closed. See Getting here.
In more detail
From Kirkenes you follow the E6 west to Varangerbotn, and from there the E75 along the Varangerfjord to Vadsø. The E75 continues on to Vardø. From Kirkenes Airport it is 162 km, about 2 hours 30 minutes in summer.
In winter our estimate is 3–3½ hours from Kirkenes and 1½ hours from Vardø. Watch out for reindeer on the road all year round, and check the road reports from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration before you drive.