In the far north-east of Norway, where the Varangerfjord meets the open plateau. The sun stays up around the clock in summer, the polar night brings some of the best northern lights nights in the country, and the king crab is waiting in the fjord all year round. Stroll among the old wooden houses in the centre, taste your way through the local places to eat, or head out on the fjord.
Things to do
From fly fishing in Jakobselv to sailing on the Varangerfjord.
VDog sledding
Winter seasonWinter
Dog sledding on Ekkerøy and in Varanger, with its own dog yard.
Price on request
VVadsø museum – Ruija kvenmuseum
All year
The national museum responsible for the Kven people and Norwegian-Finns, with exhibitions on Kven and Norwegian-Finnish history — plus five historic sites the museum keeps open around the municipality.
Adults NOK 120 (children under 16 free)
VDog sledding in Varanger
Winter
Dog sledding for the whole family, whether you drive the team yourself or ride in the sled.
From NOK 1,500
Where to stay
From Arctic lodge to family-run guesthouse — book directly with each one.
VVarangertunet
Open all year
Family-run guesthouse in Vestre Jakobselv, with its own food made from local produce.
From NOK 995 per night
VVaranger Panorama AS
Season: 5 May–20 September
Camping, café and restaurant with panoramic views over the Varangerfjord.
From NOK 340 per night
VFood and drink
Restaurants, cafés and food experiences in and around Vadsø.
V
VQvænbrygg Taproom
Ørtangen 10
Taste all of Qvænbrygg’s beers in one place. The taproom is in the same building as the brewery and opens to the public about once a month — or book a private beer tasting, birthday party or Christmas party.
VVaranger Panorama AS
Camping, café and restaurant with panoramic views over the Varangerfjord.
Plan your visit
Everything you need to get here, find your way around and get to know the town.
InspirationHeritage sites, walks and stories from Vadsø and Varanger.Get inspired →
Getting herePlane, car, bus, the coastal route and package tours — with maps and travel times.Plan your trip →
Tourist mapPlaces to eat, sights and shops on one map — ready to print.See the map →
Vadsø in the mediaTravel stories, TV and film about Vadsø and Varanger from the BBC, Le Monde, NRK and others.Read and watch →