Vardø: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Pomors, Radars & Witches
Active
35m
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
You’ll find the arctic city of Vardø as far east as you can go in Norway. There’s limited access to professional guides in this area, so why not have your own personal guide directly on your smartphone? You’ll see the highlights of the city through the eyes of a local. Take all the time you need and stop along the way if feel like it.
The tour starts from the port, where the Hurtigruten arrives every evening. We’ll go along the shores of Vardø, passing the statue of Willem Barentz, before arriving at the wharves and warehouse of Brodtkorp. The tour also takes you to the dark side of local history by telling the story of the burning of witches at Steglnes. Finally we’ll pass the marvelous Vardøhus Fortress, before arriving back at the port.
The tour automatically plays audio at exactly the right time and place using your smartphone's GPS service and the VoiceMap mobile app. Start the tour, put your phone in your pocket, and let my voice guide you through the highlights of Vardo.
Available options
Vardø: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Pomors, Radars & Witches
What's included
VoiceMap Application
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Lifetime access to Vardø: Pomors, Radars and Witches in the Far North tour
Detailed itinerary
1
The word Pomor is Russian and means "those who live by the sea". It refers to the Russians who lived by the White Sea, and sailed to Norway in the summer season to fish and trade with Norwegians. Pomor trading began in Finnmark around the 1700s. Vardø is called "The capital of Pomor".
2
The Steilneset Memorial commemorates the trial and execution of 91 people for witchcraft. The memorial was designed by artist Louise Bourgeois and architect Peter Zumthor, and opened in 2011.
3
Vardøhus Fortress was built between 1733 and 1739, and remains almost in its original form. The fortress site forms an eight-point star, protecting many buildings within the walls. Vardøhus saw no military action until the Second World War. During the war, the fortress was used as an anti-aircraft site and POW camp before the German occupation.
4
Hornoya is the eastern most nature area in Norway. Here you can go aground and experience ample bird life at close quarters.
What's not included
Smartphone
Transportation
Food/Drink
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Norway
Norway is a Scandinavian country known for its stunning natural landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and Northern Lights. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, vibrant cities, and rich Viking heritage.
Top Attractions
Geirangerfjord
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Geirangerfjord is one of Norway's most famous fjords, known for its stunning waterfalls, steep cliffs, and breathtaking views. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature
2-3 days
Free to explore, but tours and activities may have fees
Bryggen
Bryggen is a historic wharf in Bergen, known for its colorful wooden buildings that date back to the Hanseatic League. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist attraction.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore, museums have entry fees
Trolltunga
Trolltunga, or 'Troll's Tongue,' is a stunning cliff that juts out over Ringedalsvatnet lake. It's a popular hiking destination and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Adventure
1-2 days (hike takes 8-10 hours round trip)
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fårikål
A traditional Norwegian stew made with lamb, cabbage, and spices. It's often served with boiled potatoes and is a comforting dish, especially in colder months.
Dinner
Contains meat and gluten
Rakfisk
Fermented fish, typically trout or char, served with flatbread, sour cream, onions, and potatoes. It's a traditional dish with a strong flavor that's an acquired taste.
Snack
Contains fish and gluten
Brunost
A brown, caramelized cheese made from a mixture of goat's milk and cow's milk whey. It has a sweet, caramel-like flavor and is often served on waffles or bread.
Dessert
Contains dairy and lactose
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Dog sledding
Fjord cruises
Spa treatments
Cozy cafes
Museum visits
Historical sites
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the best time to visit Norway for warm weather, long daylight hours, and outdoor activities. It's ideal for hiking, fishing, and exploring the fjords. However, it's also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices.
15-25°C (59-77°F)
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Norwegian
- Widely spoken: English, German, Swedish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Norway is a safe country with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is relatively uncommon. However, it's always important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas.
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unusual requests or offers.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis, and avoid unlicensed services.
Getting there
By air
- Oslo Airport • 48 km (30 miles) from Oslo
- Bergen Airport • 16 km (10 miles) from Bergen
By train
Oslo Central Station, Bergen Central Station
By bus
Oslo Bus Terminal, Bergen Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Comfortable and efficient, with scenic routes like the Bergen Railway and Flåm Railway.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Oslo Taxi, Bergen Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Grünerløkka
Bryggen
Aker Brygge
Day trips
Flåm
160 km (100 miles) from Oslo • Full day
A picturesque village nestled in a fjord, Flåm is known for its stunning scenery, historic attractions, and the famous Flåm Railway. It's a popular day trip from Oslo or Bergen.
Hardangerfjord
300 km (186 miles) from Oslo • Full day to overnight
One of the longest and deepest fjords in Norway, Hardangerfjord is known for its stunning landscapes, orchards, and waterfalls. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and scenic drives.
Trollstigen
350 km (217 miles) from Oslo • Full day
A scenic mountain road in Møre og Romsdal, Trollstigen is known for its steep hairpin bends, stunning views, and dramatic landscapes. It's a popular destination for road trips and outdoor adventures.
Festivals
Oslo Jazz Festival • August
Bergen International Festival • Late May to early June
Nordic Music Days • October
Pro tips
- Book accommodations, transportation, and popular activities in advance, especially during peak season (June to August) and for popular events and festivals.
- Pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions, even in the summer.
- Consider renting a car for exploring the countryside and remote areas, but be aware of tolls, ferries, and winter driving conditions.
- Learn a few basic Norwegian phrases, such as 'hei' (hello), 'takk' (thank you), and 'unnskyld' (excuse me), to show respect for the local culture.
- Try local specialties like lutefisk, rakfisk, and brunost, and visit local markets and food halls for a taste of Norwegian cuisine.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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