Tourism in Northern Norway continues on a clear growth trajectory. Between June and August 2025, the region recorded 2.37 million overnight stays, an increase of 3.1% compared with the previous year and 12.5% more than in 2023, according to recent figures from Statistics Norway (SSB).
International demand was particularly strong: 1.29 million foreign overnight stays represent a growth of 13.4%. The largest markets were Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, France, and the United States.
“International awareness of Northern Norway as a year-round, sustainable destination is higher than ever. We are seeing travellers who stay longer, explore more widely, and seek deeper cultural and natural experiences. That is a very positive development for our communities.” — Siw Sandvik, Head of PR & Communications, Northern Norway Tourist Board
The strongest summer growth was recorded in Lofoten (+10%) and Tromsø (+4%). At the same time, East Finnmark achieved an impressive 15% increase – a clear indication that travellers increasingly explore regions beyond the well-known hotspots. Kirkenes, a key winter destination in Finnmark, offers experiences found nowhere else: king crab safaris, the Snowhotel, Northern Lights adventures, and wide, quiet landscapes that represent what many visitors consider the “real Arctic”.
“The change in flight offerings can have quite a big impact on us. Most people have limited holidays, and we believe that some travellers are choosing other destinations in Northern Norway or Finland instead. Kirkenes is a unique destination, but we are completely dependent on good connections to realize its potential.” — Per H. Johansen, Marketing Manager, Kirkenes Snow Hotel
The cancellation of the late-evening flight from Oslo to Kirkenes has had a noticeable impact on the local tourism industry.
“The 9 o’clock flight is too early. That means anyone who wants to visit Kirkenes from another European city would have to stay overnight in Oslo. We are very poorly connected at the moment. We will have fewer tourists and smaller groups. We will have huge problems with that.” — Monika Raab, General Manager, Booking Kirkenes
Kirkenes remains accessible, but with reduced flexibility:
This situation makes clear why losing even a single key connection can significantly affect international travellers and group logistics.
Despite flight cuts, there are strong signs of confidence. The Northern Norway Tourist Board continues to invest heavily in promoting the region and collaborates closely with local partners to strengthen Finnmark’s visibility in international markets.
One example is the Northern Norway Digital Sales Workshop, which has already attracted considerable interest. Numerous tour operators from across Europe have registered to learn more about winter products, sustainable experiences, and new developments in Northern Norway.
These digital formats help maintain demand – regardless of temporary flight challenges – and demonstrate that Finnmark remains firmly on the radar of the international travel industry.
In September, foreign hotel overnight stays across Northern Norway rose by 10% compared with 2024. Demand is clearly present – including in Finnmark, provided accessibility keeps pace.
“We must strengthen accessibility, and more accommodation capacity is incredibly important.” — Per H. Johansen
Tourism also remains a crucial cornerstone of local infrastructure.
“Tourism brings in a huge amount of money. It’s an important business.” — Monika Raab
Around 400 people in Kirkenes – one in ten residents – work in the tourism industry.
Finnmark stands for wide-open landscapes, calm nature, and genuine hospitality. Travellers increasingly seek exactly these kinds of sustainable, deeply immersive Arctic experiences – far from mass tourism.
Despite changes in flight schedules, the region remains an essential part of Arctic Norway: defined by uniqueness, resilience, and strong community spirit.
More on the growth of Northern Norway.
More on the flight cut to Kirkenes.
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