Arctic Highway
Russia
From St. Petersburg north through the Karelian lakes and birch forests to Murmansk, the world's largest city above the Arctic Circle, and an ice-free naval port that never closes. In summer the sun never sets; in winter the Northern Lights arc overhead without interruption.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Saint Petersburg
The Hermitage, Peterhof's fountains, and White Nights in June. The grand departure point before the long road north.
- Petrozavodsk
Karelia's capital on Lake Onega, Europe's second-largest lake. Ferries leave from here to the UNESCO wooden churches of Kizhi Island.
- Kizhi Island
UNESCO wooden churches built without a single nail. The 22-domed Church of the Transfiguration (1714) is among the world's finest timber structures.
- Kem & Solovetsky Islands
Gateway to the Solovetsky Islands, where Orthodox monks lived from the 15th century and Russia's first gulag opened in 1923.
- Kandalaksha Fjord
The Kola Peninsula begins here. Beluga whales are regularly spotted in the White Sea fjord from the coastal road in summer.
- Murmansk
The world's largest city above the Arctic Circle. The Lenin, the world's first nuclear-powered surface ship, is preserved in the harbour.
Where to Eat
- Karelian GornitsaKarelian
Traditional Karelian dishes served in a rustic setting, offering a taste of local flavors.
- Cafe KizhiRussian
Cozy café near Kizhi Pogost, perfect for a warm meal after exploring the island's wooden architecture.
- Solovetsky Monastery RefectoryMonastic
Experience simple, hearty meals prepared by monks within the historic Solovetsky Monastery.
- Arktika Hotel RestaurantEuropean
Elegant dining with panoramic views of Murmansk, offering a mix of European and Russian cuisine.
- Tundra RestaurantNorthern Russian
Specializes in northern delicacies like venison and fish, reflecting the region's culinary heritage.
Things to Do
- Kizhi PogostHistoric Site
Explore the UNESCO-listed wooden churches, including the 22-domed Transfiguration Church, built without nails.
- Solovetsky MonasteryHistoric Site
Visit the medieval monastery complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history.
- Kandalaksha Nature ReserveNature Reserve
Discover diverse Arctic flora and fauna in this protected area along the Kandalaksha Fjord.
- Alyosha MonumentMonument
Admire the towering statue of a Soviet soldier overlooking Murmansk, commemorating WWII heroes.
- Lenin Nuclear IcebreakerMuseum Ship
Tour the world's first nuclear-powered icebreaker, now a museum docked in Murmansk.
Travel advisory
Winter travel on this Arctic corridor brings extreme cold, ice roads, and polar darkness; snow tyres or chains are essential from October through April. Services and fuel stations become sparse north of Petrozavodsk so plan fuel stops carefully. A reliable, cold-weather-prepared vehicle is strongly advised.