Vadsø

Vadsø is a municipality in Troms and Finnmark county that is located on the south side of the Varanger Peninsula. The municipality has an area of 1 242 km² and a population of 5 641 inhabitants as of the second quarter of 2023 . Vadsø is also a city and the administrative center of the municipality, with 4 615 inhabitants as of January 1, 2022.

Vadsø has a rich history and culture, with influences from Kvens, Sami and Norwegians. The city is often called “the Kven capital” because of the significant immigration from Finland. Today, the city also has a large proportion of immigrants from other countries, who made up 18 % of the population in 2017. Vadsø has an active cultural life, with among others Varanger Museum, Vadsø Jazz Club, Vadsø Film Club and Vadsø Theater Group.

Vadsø is also an attractive destination for tourists who want to experience the nature, wildlife and culture of Finnmark. The municipality has several attractions, such as Vadsøya Cultural Park, Ekkerøy Bird Sanctuary, Tuomainen Farm and Vadsø Church. There are also several festivals and events in the municipality, such as Varanger Festival, Barents Spectacle, Finnmark Race and Vadsø Days.

Vadsø has a varied economic structure, with the public sector as the largest employer. The municipality also has a growing private sector, with among others trade, service, fish industry, tourism and technology. Vadsø is also an important education and competence center in the region, with among others UiT The Arctic University of Norway, secondary school and several kindergartens and primary schools.

Vadsø is a municipality with many opportunities to live and work. The municipality has a central location in East Finnmark, with good infrastructure and communication. The municipality also has a good offer of housing, health and care services, cultural and leisure activities and voluntary organizations. Vadsø is a municipality that values diversity, cooperation and development.