One of the dream destinations of many people in the Scandinavian region is Norway. You’ll generally enjoy breathtaking and stunning scenery that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. There are fjords, mountains, restaurants, and places that will make your vacation worth it.
With this said, it’s often best for travelers to rent a car, especially if they are planning to go to Kirkenes, which is a small town in the country, but with a thriving metropolis. There are towns like Bjornevatn, Sandnes, and Hesseng that consist of about 8,000 people, and you can explore the Northern lights while you’re at it. See more info about the Aurora on this website.
There are even lots of activities to do during the winter where you can get into exciting opportunities and be with companions that will make the experience more memorable. Kirkenes sits at the Russian border at the tip of the country, and it’s located between the Norwegian Sea and the Barents Sea, which makes it an essential port for Russian trade.
Where to Start?
Airports are located about 20 minutes from the town, but if you have the opportunity to explore the country, you can go to Kirkenes from any point and save more rather than taking a taxi. You can go to an apartment rental with food during your stay, and they can also show you around whenever you want.
Lots of attractions are available, and the region is well-known for its part in getting a lot of air raids in Europe during World War II. It was a prime target for both Russian and German forces as they struggled to maintain control over the country.
Where to Go in Kirkenes?
Start your tour with the Borderland Museum, which is located just on the outskirts of the airport. It’s something that you shouldn’t miss whether you’re leaving or entering town. You can also ski your way on it, and there’s the Nordre Namdalen Arctic Settler that’s a home that was turned into a museum. Logbooks are available, and you can record your name on them as proof that you’ve visited the place.
Try the Soviet Liberation monument that has survived the war, and this is a turning point in the war when the Russians liberated Kirkenes from the Nazis. Go to the church as well because it can be a good site. It has post-World War II architecture that’s found in Kirkenes. Try the Andersgrotten bomb shelter, where it can be a grim reminder of what everyone has endured during WWII.
Snow hotels can also be an attraction worth visiting, and they are great for those who are into port excursions. It’s carved mostly of ice blocks and snow, and they are artfully lit and uniquely themed. If you can spend the night on it, there are sleeping spaces and saunas that are available for people who don’t really care about the cold.
What Should You Know About Car Rentals?
1. Booking Process
Although Norway is somewhat costly if you decide to visit, it’s still going to be relatively cheap when it comes to care rentals. It’s best if you’re able to secure a vehicle in advance and avoid the crowds and the long lists during the summer. Find out more about the process on the site Leiebilguiden – Kirkenes, which can help you get affordable pricing and ensure that you have a seamless booking experience.
2. Selecting a Vehicle
There are various types available, and you might need a larger one if you’re traveling as a family. There are beautiful destinations that will need a long drive and you may need to make various steps before you can get to them. If you’re comfortable during the trip, everything is more bearable and enjoyable, and you can also bring your luggage with you to Kirkenes.
3. Fines and Speed Limits
Adhere to the state speed limits to avoid hefty penalties. In regular roads, you need to be under 80 km/h, and this can drop to 30 km/h when it comes to residential areas. Hopefully, you’ll never need to go beyond that because the fines can be around 90 euros or 800 NOK, and this can go to 1,200 euros or 10,600 NOK if you’re careful. There are jail times as well that can be up to 18 days, so watch out. Cruise control is a feature that you may need to look more into so you can adhere to the limits without worrying.
4. Insurance
One of the more compulsory inclusions is a third-party insurance and this is often referred to as a collision damage waiver. There will be an attached excessed amount, and if there’s an accident, you’ll need to pay out of pocket for that specific amount. Check with the company before booking because the figures can range from a hundred to thousands of euros.
Payment for additional rates can be a good idea, especially if you’re going to the northernmost part of Norway, like Kirkenes which can take a few days. Remove the excess by shouldering the additional rate, or you can utilize your credit cards to help you cover other expenses. Avoid the nasty surprises, if possible, by going with full coverage so you won’t have any price shocks.
Other Things to Do
Choosing Your Rental Location
Norway’s geographydemands strategic planning for your road trip. Determine your route andconsider picking up and dropping off your rental car accordingly. While it’stempting to traverse the country from Oslo to Tromsø, the limited often callsfor regional exploration or one-way rentals with careful budgeting.
Types of Rental Cars
Fromconventional two-wheel drives to eco-friendly electric vehicles and versatilecampervans, Norway offers diverse rental options. While standard cars can bemore than enough for most journeys, you can also get something big that canaccommodate everything. On the other hand, there are campervans that arefavored by many travelers, and they can serve as both accommodation andmobility, particularly in Norway.
Rental Criteria
To rent a carin Norway, you need a valid driver’s license held for at least a year. Also,renters must be over 19 years old, with potential age-related restrictions andfees for younger drivers. Ensuring compliance with these criteria is going tohelp you have a smoother rental process.
Tolls and Ferries
NavigatingNorway’s fjord-filled landscape often will mean ferry crossings and toll roads.While ferry fares are generally reasonable, varying by route and vehicle size,toll fees are automatically accounted for through an AutoPASS system integratedinto rental vehicles.
Cost Considerations
Budgeting fora rental car involves factoring in rental fees, insurance, fuel costs, tolls,and ferry charges. A sample calculation for a 10-day trip provides insight intodaily expenses, which can enable travelers to plan their finances effectively.
Parking
Parking fees in Norway vary widely, with rates influenced by location and duration. Utilizing parking apps or meters can mean more convenient payments while exploring alternatives outside city centers can equal to cost savings.
Road Closures
Norway’s mountainous terrain and inclement weather conditions may sometimes need occasional road closures, particularly in winter. Staying informed about closures and alternative routes can prevent travel disruptions, ensuring a smoother journey.
