Nordpol Kro AS

If you are looking for a place with authentic northern character, you should definitely visit Nordpol Kro. Located in the northernmost town in Norway, Vardø, this establishment is the oldest pub in all of Northern Norway, welcoming guests since 1864. It is not just a restaurant or bar, but a true living museum where every corner is steeped in the history of the Arctic region.

The interior of Nordpol Kro is strikingly eclectic and cozy: you can see antique items, vintage photographs of the town, and even a rare motorcycle. The venue is famous for its homely atmosphere, where tourists and weather-beaten local fishermen meet over a pint of excellent beer or a portion of hot, freshly made pizza. Despite its northern specifics, the prices are considered quite reasonable for this region.

A visit to this pub is a must for those who want to experience the true flavor of Vardø. The establishment's high rating (4.5 stars) confirms that the service and quality of cuisine have remained top-notch for many decades, making it an important cultural attraction in the town.

To get in touch with the representatives of the oldest pub in the region or to book a table for a large group, use the contacts listed below. It is recommended to check for availability in the evening, especially on weekends.

The main reason to come to Nordpol Kro is the opportunity to immerse yourself in history through visuals and gastronomy. Be sure to take the time to examine the collection of archival photos of Vardø and rare artifacts, such as the vintage motorcycle seamlessly integrated into the interior. This place is often compared to an informal museum where you can study exhibits while sipping a refreshing drink.

In terms of food, guests particularly praise the pizza, which is prepared right on-site, as well as simple but hearty local dishes available during the day. If you appreciate authentic spirits, order a bottle of anniversary ale or try brennevin, a traditional Norwegian digestif. The staff is known for their friendliness and is always ready to recommend the best choice from the menu.

For those who want to see Nordpol Kro in all its glory, the best time is Friday evening. At this time, the pub becomes the heart of the island's social life, with a diverse crowd gathering at communal tables. This is the perfect moment for chatting with locals and getting to know the modern daily life of Arctic residents in a warm and nostalgic setting.

Nordpol Kro is located in the heart of Vardø at Kaigata 21. Thanks to its central location, the pub is within walking distance of the main harbor and most administrative buildings, making it a perfect spot to conclude a walk around the island.

The town itself is situated on an island in the Finnmark region, and getting here is an adventure in its own right. Vardø is connected to the mainland by the E75 highway, which runs through an undersea tunnel. If you are traveling by public transport, you can use bus routes or arrive in the town on the famous ferry from Kirkenes.

Within the town itself, it's best to get around on foot, enjoying the rugged northern landscapes, but if necessary, you can call a taxi from the main square or the port. Navigation coordinates: 70.3734329, 31.1007572.

The history of Nordpol Kro began back in 1864, making it the oldest pub in Northern Norway. Remarkably, in its more than 160-year history, the establishment has only had five owners, representing two families. Since the 1960s, it was managed by the Bredesen family, and in 1985, the reins were handed over to the current owner, who is considered a true keeper of local legends.

The walls of the pub serve as a kind of chronicle: they are decorated with unique photographs of the town dating back to the arrival of the first cameras. This turns a simple trip for a beer into a fascinating journey through the history of northern exploration.

Among the most remarkable exhibits, you can see a rare 1939 Miele Motorrad motorcycle. These artifacts, carefully preserved by the owners, create a unique spirit of generational continuity that is highly valued by both locals and visiting tourists.

To truly soak in the spirit of this place, a typical visitor should set aside 1 to 2 hours. This is enough time to leisurely enjoy a glass of local ale, study the many historical photographs on the walls, and try the signature pizza.

If you plan to stop by on a Friday evening, it's worth allowing a bit more time for socializing—during these hours, the venue fills with locals, and the atmosphere becomes exceptionally lively and conducive to long conversations about life beyond the Arctic Circle.

Nordpol Kro's schedule has its own specifics, being split into daytime and evening hours. Typically, the establishment is open on weekdays from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM, then reopens its doors at 8:00 PM and works until late at night (until 00:30 or 01:00 AM). On Saturdays and Sundays, the pub is most often available only in the evening, starting from eight o'clock.

Since opening hours can change depending on the season or private events, we strongly recommend checking for up-to-date information on the official website or calling to confirm before your visit.

The pub's location in the historic center makes it easy to combine a visit with a tour of other iconic sites in the town. Exploring the surroundings of Vardø will help you better feel the atmosphere of life at the edge of the world and get acquainted with the heroic past of this Arctic outpost.