After arriving in Tromsø you can spend some time exploring this lively town. Since Tromsø has been the set-off point for so many Arctic expeditions, and because the Norwegian Polar Institute is located in the town, Tromsø is without a doubt Norway’s Polar city.

The Arctic Cathedral (Tromsdalen Church), with its beautiful glass mosaics, is the best known landmark, and was named after its distinctive architecture; the bright sides and shape itself reminiscent of icebergs. The world’s northernmost university, as well as all the visitors who come here, give Tromsø a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The restaurants and cafes are always full of people and life. The ship sets sail late in the afternoon.

The last port in this voyage northward is Kirkenes. Located at 30°E, you’ll now be further east than Istanbul and St. Petersburg. The Russian border is close by, and all signs are written in both Norwegian and Russian.

In the centre of Kirkenes you’ll find the Russia monument and the Wartime Mothers monument, which were erected after the Second World War. Kirkenes has a rich history and you’ll learn much of it by visiting the The Borderland Museum and the Savio Museum. If you have time before you travel back home, we recommend you spend some time exploring Kirkenes.