Planning tips

The Lofoten Islands in northern Norway are one of the most epic places on the planet.  This is a guide to everything you need to know before you visit the Lofoten Islands.

It will include how to travel to Lofoten, what to do when there, and what to expect from this magical Arctic paradise.  

30 Things to Know Before You Visit the Lofoten Islands

There are beautiful places all over this world and if you’re very lucky, you will sometimes have the opportunity to visit these places. 

To be honest, I never really knew too much about Northern Norway and visiting the Lofoten Islands. The only thing I knew about them is what Megan had continuously told me- they are one of the most spectacular places on Earth.

It took us a while to plan our trip to the Lofoten Islands (because planning with Megan is difficult), but finally, our trip began. 

I arrived in Oslo from the airport and within a few days was up in Bodø before we set off for the Lofoten Islands.

It was my first time visiting Lofoten and Megan’s second time.  She had been there during the winter months and this trip was during the beginning of summer. 

That has helped us shape this guide and make it so that it pertains to all seasons in some way or another.  We hope it helps you plan your Lofoten Islands trip!

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Norway?

One of the most important recommendations I can make to travelers visiting Lofoten and the rest of Norway is to have reliable and credible travel insurance before making the journey there.  

Norway is not one of the cheapest countries in the world (putting it mildly there) and it is also an epicenter for adventure and sports. 

The sense of security that you will have by booking travel insurance will help relieve any anxiety you could have if something goes wrong.

I recommend purchasing your insurance with SafetyWing.  I have used several insurance companies in the past and I find a lot of them to be extremely overpriced and some do not have reliable testimonies and reviews. 

SafetyWing comes highly recommended and will cover all of your needs in case an emergency arises in Norway.

Click here to get a Norway travel insurance quote for your trip

Lofoten Islands Transportation and Flights

Getting to the Lofoten Islands

First of all, you need to get yourself to Norway.  It is the easiest thoroughfare to getting up north.  I flew airBaltic, my favorite airline, from Tbilisi to Riga to Oslo. 

Once I was in Oslo, it made the opportunity to get up north much easier.

The Lofoten Islands are a bit remote, but they can be reached from Oslo or the larger cities in Norway via Svolvær, Leknes, or Harstad/Narvik Airports. 

Harstad/Narvik is a bit larger and does have international connections seasonally… but it is not situated in the islands.  Svolvær and Leknes Airports are located in the Lofoten Islands and are the best option based on proximity.

These airports are serviced by Widerøe, SAS, or Norwegian depending on where you’re flying from and landing in.  Try to book in advance a bit as the airports are small and the planes don’t hold heaps of people.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Bodø to the Lofoten Islands.  I mean, there are many things to do in Bodø, but you definitely need to see Lofoten while you’re at it. 

The boats arrive on Moskenes Island and, to be honest, it is one of the most beautiful parts of Lofoten so it will be a great first impression you’ll receive coming right off the boat.  

To see Bodø to Lofoten Islands ferry schedules, click here.  If you’re keen to research tickets on Widerøe to arrive in Svolvær, Leknes, or Harstad/Narvik, click here to search availability and options.

Lofoten Islands Airports

Please take into consideration that airports in the Lofoten Islands are extremely small as are the small towns and fishing villages. 

There is not going to necessarily be a bus waiting to drop you at your hotel and the distance from one airport to a hotel can be great and needs prior planning.  

These airports have one runway and pretty much one gate.  Widerøe is the carrier of choice (okay… the only carrier) in these parts and their planes are small and have limited space and no seating as the hops are generally pretty short. 

I actually love flying them and think they are practical in an area that can be pretty challenging to get around.

The airport codes for Lofoten are as follows:  Svolvær (SVJ), Leknes (LKN), and Harstad/Narvik (EVE). 

If you’re staying in the lower part of Lofoten (Å, Reine, Hamnøy, Stamsund, Leknes, Nusfjord, etc), you will want to fly into Leknes. 

If you’re staying in Svolvær, Henningsvær, Gimsøya, or somewhere more north, you will want to fly into Svolvær.  I’d advise against flying into Narvik and Harstad unless you can’t find alternative options into the aforementioned airports.

If you’re wanting to investigate further options for getting from an airport to your final destination via public transportation, check out the local transport website.

Lofoten Islands Train Situation

There is no train to the Lofoten Islands.  Why?  Well, the trains in Norway don’t run north of Bodø.  And the Lofoten Islands are north of Bodø. 

You can take the train to Bodø and then take a ferry or bus up to the Lofoten Islands.  Or you can fly from Bodø and take the 29-minute flight or whatever it was.  

Public Transportation in the Lofoten Islands

If you’re not renting a car in the Lofoten Islands and are looking to use public transportation to get around, congratulations, you’re in luck. 

But, it is not the most ideal of situations, to be honest.  You can view all bus schedules here.  

The buses run throughout the islands on a schedule and can get you from point A to point B.  But, they don’t reach everywhere. 

If you’re looking to get out to Nusfjord, for example, you won’t have much luck with public transportation. 

I actually would rather hitchhike around the islands than rely on public transportation. 

In addition, you can’t just stop and take photos whenever you want and that is a travesty as the Lofoten Islands are easily one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

Renting a Car in the Lofoten Islands

I plan to write an entire guide to renting a car in the Lofoten Islands, but for now, here is a quick recap of what I think about the experience.

If you plan to rent a car in the Lofoten Islands, you will need your driver’s license and decent driving skills.  The airports are a prime place for pickup but there are limited cars available. 

Be sure to communicate beforehand about your arrival and how to go about it.  In Svolvær, the car rental place is removed from the airport and in an area to the left once you exit the arrivals area.  Leknes is a bit the same.  

Click here to check rental car options in the Lofoten Islands

Driving in the Lofoten Islands

Taking a Lofoten Islands rental car around should seem like an easy business but it’s not.  The problem is not the infrastructure, roads, or the car hire itself. 

The real issue is that the scenery is distracting.  The landscapes of the Lofoten Islands are so sick that it is really easy to drive around and get extremely distracted and fall off course.  

You are driving along the edge of the ocean, beside colorful rorbuer, and through scenery that actually doesn’t look real.  It is hard to take it all in while attempting to concentrate on the road. 

This will force you to stop every five minutes to take photos and just bask in the glory of being in the gorgeous Lofoten Islands.

Another note is that there will be a lot of campers (notably from Germany) in the Lofoten Islands. 

These Germans will still think they are on the Autobahn and will tear through corners as such, not leaving room for other vehicles to confidently cruise along the roads.  The campers don’t mean any harm, just prepare yourself ahead of time!

Parking Can Be a Pain

Learned the hard way.

So, why is parking difficult?  Well, it is not entirely difficult as it is challenging to identify where you’re permitted to park and where you’re not permitted to park. 

If you have any uncertainty, always ask for clarification.  

We received a ticket in Henningsvær for parking in a place that wasn’t dedicated to our hotel.  The yellow lines here indicated hotel parking.  Um????

It was completely unclear and we ended up paying the 600 NOK fine at the end which was pretty lousy.  Hope you put that money to good use, Vågen Kommune. 

And by good use, we mean we hope you bought another can of paint and cleaned this mess up. 

Hitchhiking in Lofoten is an Option

While we didn’t particularly do this ourselves as we had a rental car (don’t worry, we hitchhiked to Hammerfest in the far north), we did pick up hitchhikers during our Lofoten Islands trip.  

Hitchhiking in Northern Norway was really fun and pretty easy.  The roads are not teeming with cars, even in the summer months, and the locals and tourists in the area are pretty friendly and willing to pick up others traveling through these majestic parts.  

Food, Drinks, Restaurants in the Lofoten Islands

If you like delicious food (especially seafood!) and find yourself in the Lofoten Islands, congratulations!  You have ended up in foodie heaven. 

And don’t worry if you’re a vegan or vegetarian, most places in Norway will offer alternatives to those on a plant-based diet.  Below is everything we know about food, drinks, and restaurants in the Lofoten Islands.

You Will See Cod Drying (Racks) Everywhere

Depending on what season you visit the Lofoten Islands, you may see cod drying on large racks everywhere you go. 

You will see the racks no matter what, but if you venture there during the right time of year, you will see the actual cod hanging and you may even smell it before you see it.

This is where the local delicacy ‘stockfish’ comes from.  

Stockfish Dishes are Everywhere

“Hi, what is your signature dish?”

“Stockfish.”

So basically, everywhere you go you will see stockfish on the menu in some way, shape, or form. 

These are rehydrated and cooked versions of the cod you will see hanging out to dry everywhere throughout the islands.  While I do love stockfish, I can only take so much of it prepared the same way.

If you’re looking for a stockfish dish with a unique twist, head to Henningsvær Bryggehotell’s restaurant.  They offer stockfish but it will have a spin on it that will take you to Southern Europe and it is simply divine! 

The Word ‘Søndagsåpent’ is a Big Deal

In Norway, shops are traditionally closed on Sundays.  Fortunately, and unlike Germany, you will be able to find limited shops that are called ‘Søndagsåpent’ shops, or ‘Sundays open’ shops. 

These shops are sparse in the Lofoten Islands, but they do exist every so often!  They will be your lifeline!

Norway is expensive and the cheapest place to purchase food is at a grocery store.  I recommend buying a loaf of bread, some cheese and meats, and condiments from the grocery store and keeping them in your car. 

If you do need something and you see a Søndagsåpent shop, stop and grab because you don’t know when the next shop will appear.  

Lofoten Islands Craft Beer Does Exist

And it is good!  Lofotpils is a company based in Svolvær that makes some absolutely delicious beer and they distribute it all throughout the islands. 

Run by Andreas, an Icelandic-Norwegian who loves his beer and the Lofoten Islands, he has created an empire in the islands with the stuff. 

Megan has had Lofotpils all over this part of Northern Norway and says the beers are simply delicious. 

We had the chance to tour the brewery when visiting the Lofoten Islands recently and a chance to sample small amounts of the brews, and I can’t say she was wrong! 

The pilsner is the best-seller but they offer seasonal beers as well.  They offer tours of the brewery but if you’re simply interested in just tasting their beers, you can find them almost anywhere throughout the islands and at a lot of the restaurants.

Buying Alcohol in Norway

If you’re looking to purchase drinks in Norway, you will need to do so at a grocery store (if lower alcohol percentage- like beer) or at the Vinmonopolet, a state-run alcohol shop with astronomical taxes on beverages.  

Grocery stores sell beer and cider.  You can purchase alcohol there on weekdays until 8pm and on Saturdays until 6pm.  You are unable to purchase on Sundays. 

In the Lofoten Islands, you can find Vinmonopolets in Leknes and Svolvær.  This is where you can buy wine and spirits.  

Just a quick tip- if you’re flying into Norway from abroad (landing in a larger city not in Lofoten), take advantage of the duty-free shopping there for alcohol. 

This is what most Norwegians do to avoid some of these high taxes on beverages.  You can then carry it up to Lofoten if you’re not just using carry-ons or if you didn’t connect on a separate ticket.

Scenery in the Lofoten Islands

Beaches in the Lofoten Islands Rival the Caribbean

If you were to look at a photo of a Caribbean beach versus one from the Lofoten Islands, you may actually not be able to tell the difference.  Thank goodness weather doesn’t translate via a photograph.

While the beaches may be cold and not surrounded by hammocks and smoothie bars, you can definitely still swim in them if you don’t mind the cold waters. 

The Lofoten Islands is also a surfing mecca in the Arctic and is home to the world’s northernmost surf resort (read below).

World’s Northernmost Surf Resort at Unstad

You may not realize this, but the Lofoten Islands are home to some killer surfing.  Granted, the waters are a feat to warm up to themselves but once you do, you’re in for some great surfing if the conditions are right. 

This is why the Unstad Arctic Surf Resort opened its doors and is one of the most popular places to visit and stay at in the islands.

Another fun fact- they claim to have ‘the best cinnamon bun in the world’.  I take these claims seriously and when I saw the sign, I stopped in to prove them wrong. 

Turns out they DO have the best cinnamon bun in the world.  It was a heavenly bite and I didn’t want to leave.

You can find out more about Unstad Arctic Surf Resort here.

Hiking in the Lofoten Islands

One of the most popular activities that you can do in the Lofoten Islands is to take advantage of the scenery and go hiking.  There are trails everywhere and some are well-trodden and others are less so. 

But, they are everywhere!  And there are trails for every level of hikers. 

While I like day hikes, I am not one for multi-day treks, to be honest.  You can check out this guide for 28 amazing Lofoten hikes… it includes maps, information, levels, and much more.  

If you do choose to go hiking in the Lofoten Islands, be sure you bring the right equipment and clothing with you! 

Below are a few recommendations from us that we think are fantastic for all hikers to bring on their trip:

⇒ Klean Kanteen:  You will find several water sources in the Lofoten Islands and you can fill up your reusable water bottle easily.  Please don’t bring plastic.  Click here to see which one we use.

⇒ Keen Targhee Hikers:  We love the Keen Targhee Hikers as they have pairs for both men and women.  They are durable and long-lasting (Megan’s had hers for a decade!).  Click here to shop Keen.

⇒ Helly Hansen Rain Jacket:  We also recommend a nice rain jacket that will help combat the unpredictable and temperamental weather of Norway’s North.  Helly Hansen is a reputable Norwegian brand that makes a great addition in your suitcase for your trip.  Click here to check out Helly Hansen rain jackets.

⇒ Manfrotto Pixi Evo Mini Tripod:  We travel with a full-size Manfrotto as well as this small, mini tripod.  If you’re hiking, you definitely don’t want to tote around something heavy so this tripod will be a perfect accompaniment.  You can check prices here.

You Can See the Northern Lights in Lofoten

Yes, you can witness the northern lights in the Lofoten Islands. 

In fact, while many people flock north to Tromsø to witness them, you will find that you have a more personalized experience in the Lofoten Islands northern lights hunting.  

One of the best things about the area is that the weather is ever-changing so on a night where the KP Index is favorable for northern lights action, you can join a tour where you drive around until you find them. 

Because the islands have fast-moving weather patterns and clouds, finding them is not as challenging as it may seem.  

If you’re looking for additional photography tips for the northern lights, check out our Tromsø aurora guide for help!

Are you looking to join a tour that will chase the Lofoten northern lights when you’re there?  If so, this is a highly recommended tour that we suggest you book ahead of time in order to find the elusive beauties.  

⇒ Click here to check northern lights tour rates and availability

ON THE HUNT FOR THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?  There are many things to do in Tromsø during the winter, but one I highly suggest making sure you do while there is to check out the northern lights. This comprehensive guide from a Norwegian local, Silvia, will help you discover the northern lights and how to photograph them as beautifully as she does!

Seasons and Weather in the Lofoten Islands

Fortunately, we have been to the Lofoten Islands in two totally different seasons:  winter and summer.  This part of the guide will include a bit of detail about each and things we think you should know before traveling to the Lofoten Islands.

If you’re looking for generic information about winter, we suggest packing a parka for winter and a light jacket for summer. 

Winter temperatures are around -2 to 5C during the day and summer temperatures are about 16C or so.  Rain is always in the forecast as weather patterns move quickly through so come prepared!

The Sun Doesn’t Rise in Winter

But… the skies are light for a few hours and it looks like a colorful, extended sunset.  Megan says it was one of the most magical phenomenons she has witnessed and nothing really compares to it. 

Lofoten is south enough that it does last for a longer duration than places further north, so take it all in!

The Sun Doesn’t Set in Summer

And while the sun doesn’t rise at all during a Lofoten winter, it doesn’t set at all in summer.  Due to Lofoten’s location, the middle of the night can have an hour or two where things are a bit like a golden hour. 

In fact, when we went horseback riding in Lofoten, it was during the middle of the night and we pretty much had epic light and skies as you can see below.

This can create a bit of a problem when sleeping so make sure you bring a sleeping mask with you if you are sensitive to it!

About Lofoten Islands Accommodation

There are many options for accommodation in the Lofoten Islands from hotels to hostels to guesthouses to fisherman cabins to camping in the Norwegian nature. 

This next section details a few things we think you should know before you visit the Lofoten Islands in terms of where to stay and more.

You Can Go Wild Camping in the Lofoten Islands

One of the best things about Norway is a law called ‘Allemannsrett’ which means ‘every man’s right’.  This allows people to hike or camp pretty much anywhere they want as long as it is not private property. 

Most property in Norway belongs to everyone, which is very different than in the United States, for example.

You will see a lot of tents pitched in obscure, yet beautiful spots, and it will leave you imagining what it is to wake up to such a view in the mornings. 

This is definitely something to take advantage of for those that enjoy camping or are visiting the Lofoten Islands on a budget.

Staying at a Rorbuer (Fisherman Cabin) in Lofoten is Awesome

We stayed at Nusfjord Arctic Resort when there during the summer and Megan previously stayed at Svinøya Rorbuer when she was there during the winter. 

Both are ‘rorbuer‘ or converted fisherman cabins that are now places of accommodation for visitors.  

Rorbuer are rustic, yet clean and large.  They often have a kitchen, multiple bathrooms, and a living space which will allow you all the amenities you need to enjoy the stunning Norwegian nature. 

We highly recommend staying at a rorbuer in the Lofoten Islands if you have a chance!

Many Rorbuer are Part of Larger Complexes

What we found super interesting in the Lofoten Islands was that the rorbuer were part of larger complexes.  They mostly all had their own restaurants, shops, bars, and more. 

It was kind of like being at a resort of sorts and we really liked that feeling.  Everything you needed was right at your fingertips and easy to manage. 

The resort offered a sense of anonymity but still gave an intimate experience with those who worked there.

If you’re looking for things to do in Nusfjord, for example, pretty much every restaurant and bar and cafe is associated with Nusfjord Arctic Resort, the rorbuer resort that is located there. 

The ones in Reine are no different.  It really helps make you feel at home (and never want to leave!)

Lofoten Islands Photography

Wind Can Make Photography Difficult

Driving in the Lofoten Islands and stopping every five minutes to snap photos is fun and is likely what you’re doing to do.  However, the wind can occasionally make these stops a bit tricky. 

We visited Northern Norway this previous trip during the summer and we quickly realized that we were a slave to the weather when there.  And the weather was often windy.

We set up a tripod in Reine trying to get some long exposures of the water and despite our tripod being a really heavy duty one, it was completely blown over before our camera was even placed atop it. 

We tried it again later in Hamnøy where the weather was actually milder and the same thing happened.  Just be patient and wait for a weather change… or move along like we did and call it a day.

The Famous Hamnøy View is Taken From a Bridge

You know that epic Lofoten Islands photograph you see everywhere of Hamnøy?  It is taken from a bridge.  And if the conditions suck like they did when we were there, you won’t easily get a long exposure from there. 

The wind can be brutal!  But, who cares?  The view was so sick that we didn’t care and enjoyed photographing it from multiple angles.  

In addition, you will want to invest in a wide-angle lens for the photo opportunity.  A wide-angle lens will also serve you well around the islands and the landscape is magnificent and it will give you more scale.

Click here to see which wide-angle lens we use with our camera

Henningsvær Football Pitch Drone Photo Also Isn’t Easy to Get

If you arrive in Henningsvær in winter, you won’t get the photo with a drone because the football pitch will likely be covered in snow like when Megan first visited there. 

If you are there during the summer or when no snow is covering the field, you really need the right conditions to get the photo. 

The sunlight plays a factor and we found it better to get the picture during the summer evenings.  If there is wind, you will also not be able to send up very high or out too far. 

When we were there, I had my drone settings still on what I left them on in Greece and didn’t change, which gave me a maximum altitude of only 50 meters.  This is what we scored at 50m.

You can see some quick drone regulations for Norway below.

Drone Laws in Norway

It is currently legal to fly a drone in Norway.  However, it is illegal to fly above 120 meters (400 feet). 

Many of the photos you will see in the Lofoten Islands break this rule and the Henningsvær football pitch is often taken from a drone breaking the law.  Please don’t do this because it ruins it for all of us.

You can only fly during the day and at least 5 kilometers away from airports and 150 meters away from other people or crowds.

Click here to read more about drone laws in Norway

Other Notes and Tips for Visiting the Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Has the World’s Largest Deepwater Coral Reef

The Lofoten Islands are not only amazing on land but also underwater. 

Norway is littered with amazing flora and fauna and gains global recognition for its many natural wonders but perhaps none are as remarkable as it boasting the title of the largest deepwater coral reef- something that exists in the Lofoten Islands.

This enormous and deep coral reef is located at the end of the Lofoten Islands on the western part of Røstlandet.  The reef is 43 kilometers long and has a width of approximately 6.9 kilometers. 

It is truly a natural wonder that was only discovered at the beginning of the 2000s.

Tromsø Gets all the Attention but Lofoten Has a Lot to Offer

We don’t mean that Tromsø isn’t a worth destination but we just think that you should also consider Lofoten.  Or better yet… BOTH!  Tromsø already receives the tourists. 

The Lofoten Islands have just as much to offer but are still not getting as many tourists during the winter months.  

During winter, you can find the northern lights, snowshoeing, boat trips, horseback riding, surfing, Viking Museums, and more. 

While there are not husky tours, Sami traditional evenings, and whale watching right nearby in Lofoten, the other activities more than make up for it.  

To be honest, we recommend seeing both during the winter and even both during the summer.  We think Lofoten will surprise you!

Norwegian People and the Locals are Extremely Nice

The best thing about the Lofoten Islands is not the landscapes, believe it or not.  It was, without a doubt, the people that call this gorgeous archipelago home. 

We met some of the nicest Norwegian people there and they were all accommodating, friendly, and went out of our way to ensure we had an epic trip to the Lofoten Islands. 

The only person we didn’t get on too well with was the person who gave us a parking ticket in Henningsvær.  Not cool.

Yes, Norway is Expensive

Okay… so yes, Norway is not the cheapest place to travel to.  But, the experiences surely outweigh the effect of the price and we are confident that you will have an incredible trip to these amazing islands. 

You can grocery shop, use public transportation, and wild camp… which can allow you to save a bit of money when there. 

If you have breakfast at a hotel or resort, pack up some sandwiches for lunch.  This is encouraged as locals know that tourists may be on a budget. 

Don’t stop to buy food at gas stations.  They are expensive.  There are ways to cut costs and we will do a budget guide at some point in the future to highlight some of our tips! 

Especially since Megan spent four years living in Norway!

Our Recommend Lofoten Islands Tours

There are so many fantastic tours you can partake in when you’re visiting the Lofoten Islands.  These are some of the highly recommend tours we suggest for those visiting the islands.  

⇒ Chasing the Northern Lights:  This tour will take you around to hunt for the gorgeous northern lights.  If you’re visiting during the winter… this is a must! 

You will get to see one of Earth’s best phenomenons in one of the most beautiful settings on the planet and it is just spectacular.  Click here to see tour rates and availability.

⇒ Snowshoeing in the Lofoten Islands:  Megan went snowshoeing in the Lofoten Islands in 2017 and highly recommend the experience to me. 

Obviously, this is a winter tour and is dependent on the weather, but it is a great opportunity for those who enjoy the outdoors but don’t want something too strenuous.  Click here to see tour rates and availability.

⇒ Lofoten Islands Summer Photography Tour:  This tour is during the summer months and will take you around to some of the most gorgeous spots in the Lofoten Islands to photograph. 

This is a perfect tour for those that want to come home with a lot of pictures and memories.  Click here to see tour rates and availability.

⇒ Horseback Riding on Gimsøy:  One of our favorite recommendations is to go Icelandic horseback riding on Gimsøy. 

Megan has done this activity twice and I have been once and we loved it and the entire experience at Hov Gård.  This is a great summer AND winter activity!  Click here to read about our experiences and how to book a trip.

Where to Stay in the Lofoten Islands

There are so many incredible places to stay in the Lofoten Islands.  The following places are the places we have stayed when there on the two trips by Megan and the one trip we did together.

Svinøya Rorbuer:  This is where Megan stayed on her first trip and it is located in the northern part of the islands in Svolvær. 

Svinøya Rorbuer is a bunch of fisherman cabins located right on the sea and there is an on-site restaurant called Børsen that comes highly recommended by Megan.

–> For current rates and availability click here | Read reviews on TripAdvisor

Henningsvær Bryggehotell:  This is where we stayed in Henningsvær for our night there this past trip.  The historic Henningsvær Bryggehotell is located right on the harbor in Lofoten’s most charming fishing village. 

They have an amazing restaurant on-site where we had the best stockfish of our entire trip.

–> For current rates and availability click here | Read reviews on TripAdvisor

Nusfjord Arctic Resort:  Another complex of fisherman cabins, the Nusfjord Arctic Resort is a great place to stay a bit off of the grid. 

There is an on-site restaurant, cafe, and bar and you are located right on the water in a tiny and peaceful village far removed from everything else.  The rorbua was so cozy and practical- we didn’t want to leave!

–> For current rates and availability click here | Read reviews on TripAdvisor

We hope that these tips help you get started for your Lofoten Islands visit.  There are hundreds of things we could tell you but these are some we picked that might be the most vital for your trip… or just fun to know, like the surf resort’s existence. 

If you have any questions, please drop us an email or a comment and we will do our best reply in a timely manner.  Thanks!

*Special thanks to Visit Northern Norway and Lofoten.info for hosting us while in the Lofoten Islands both times.  All opinions are our own.

PIN IT FOR LATER!

Many people aspire to visit Nordkapp in Norway for various reasons. This is a guide of everything you need to know before your travel to Nordkapp (North Cape) in the far north of Norway. 

If you have any questions about the North Cape, please let us know in the comments.

Useful Things to Know Before You Visit Nordkapp in Norway

Visiting the Nordkapp has been one of my dreams for years.  It always seemed so far away, yet was located in the very country that I called home for four years. 

Before I looked to move to Norway, I put traveling to the North Cape high on my list and was determined to do it.  But I never did.

After I relocated to Norway, I focused my efforts on traveling to places that a beer didn’t cost me $20.  Don’t worry, prices have fallen and beer is (um… more?) affordable these days than it was back when I lived there. 

I did get a chance to travel to Svalbard but I never did make it up to the North Cape.

Fast forward several years, a new home, a great friend and business partner later… and I finally got to go to the North Cape. 

Aram and I went up there in June and I can assure you, it was everything I had imagined it to be.  And I totally know what this place gets over 250,000 visitors annually.

Interestingly enough, my desire to visit Nordkapp had nothing to do with seeing the monument or driving to the tip-top of Europe. 

It was more about the treeless, tundra landscape on Magerøya island that left me captivated by this area.  Nordkapp is cool but the scenery on Magerøya was what lured me in.

Our trip to Nordkapp was exceptional.  But, there are definitely some things we wished we had known prior to embarking on a trip to this part of Arctic Norway.

This is a guide of things we deem useful to knowing before you visit the North Cape in the far north of Norway.

What to Know Before You Travel to the North Cape in Norway

How to Get to Nordkapp from Honningsvåg

There are actually a few ways to get from Honningsvåg to Nordkapp, but you need to really be cautious and wary of the weather situation you may encounter. 

We arrived by rental car in summer… and while it was easy, the fog was awful and if we had been inexperienced drivers, we would have not been confident with the journey. 

These next couple of sections offer some advice about how to get to Nordkapp from Honningsvåg (and some tours to Nordkapp).

Getting to Nordkapp Isn’t Easy

Okay, so it kind of is, depending on when you visit and your circumstances.  But, it can also be a bit inaccessible during the winter months if you’re unfamiliar with snow and the roads there. 

In fact, if the weather is crap with wind and snow, you may not be able to drive to the North Cape at all.  This is particularly pointed at those visiting Nordkapp in winter.

If renting a car in Honningsvåg is your mode of transportation of choice, you can check out options and rates here.

Find out what the weather conditions are like there before going. 

If you are trying to go independently, you may want to hop on a tour as they will be able to get there in harsher conditions (but nothing is a guarantee, of course).  We list some recommended tours in the following section.

Getting to Nordkapp from Honningsvåg

There are many ways to get to Nordkapp from Honningsvåg.  We list a snowmobile option below (I am seriously doing this one next time). 

But, you can also drive as noted above or take an organized tour there.  There are many companies that offer tour excursions to Nordkapp.  The two Nordkapp tours below have been highly recommended and their prices are decent:

• North Cape Safari (Honningsvåg): Guided North Cape Visits starting from 1595 NOK p/p.  Click here for more.
• The North Cape Experience (Skarsvåg):  Guided tour to Nordkapp from 1195 NOK p/p.  Click here for more.

You Can Snowmobile to Nordkapp

But… you can take a snowmobile there!  If all else fails, there is a tour that allows you to go via snowmobile to Nordkapp.  The tour leaves from Honningsvåg and lasts for around 5 hours. 

You do need to present a valid driver’s license in order to do this.  And there are several stops for photos of Magerøya along the way.  I can’t imagine a better way to see the Nordkapp, personally.

Click here to find out more about a snowmobile tour to Nordkapp

Honningsvåg Will Likely Be Your Base

If you’re looking at places to stay when making the journey to Nordkapp, you will likely find yourself in Honningsvåg, Norway’s northernmost city. 

You can wild camp anywhere in Norway, of course, but the best place to rent a hotel and hit up grocery stores and what not is in the city of Honningsvåg.  This is also where the closest airport is.

We really liked Honningsvåg.  What seemed to be a normal fishing village in Arctic Norway actually had a lively kick to it. 

There are many things to do in Honningsvåg, so we recommend hanging around there for a day, too.  We list some places to stay in Honningsvåg at the bottom of this guide.

About Nordkapp and Magerøya Island

Nordkapp is located on Magerøya, a large island at the tip-top of Norway.  Technically speaking, Nordkapp is a municipality in Norway. 

But, when I refer to it on this guide, I am referring to this monument because that is probably what you’re imagining too.

Magerøya is a large island that is around 440 square kilometers and it is where Honningsvåg, Nordkapp (monument and museum and stuff), Gjesvær, Skarsvåg, and some other tiny fishing villages are located. 

On the island, archaeologists have found traces of settlements going back over 10,000 years, which is pretty mind-blowing if you ask me.

There Are No Trees on Magerøya

Yep, you are in the tundra and the rocky, frozen Earth does not allow for trees to grow so well.  The wind and elements also tell trees to stay away. 

The island is devoid of trees with the exception of a planted birch here and there and this was my favorite thing about it and what drew me there in the first place. 

I am so drawn to these harsh, barren landscapes and Nordkapp and Magerøya delighted me in so many ways as a result.

Weather in Nordkapp and Magerøya

Aram and I were in Nordkapp in June and it was a balmy 3C / 37F.  In JUNE.  There was snow still on the ground and it was just really cold. 

If the sun had made an appearance, it would have likely felt warmer, but we were greeted with fog and nastiness and we were ill-prepared for such. 

In fact, we had planned to camp one night in the Nordkapp… needless to say, we got a hotel.

The weather is unpleasant… as it should be.  You’re right on the Barents Sea and the weather and wind are as unforgiving as the landscapes up that way. 

Driving from Honningsvåg to Nordkapp also was foggy and unpleasant… but the journey was so remarkably beautiful that we didn’t care.  

Dress accordingly!  Bring gloves, a hat to cover your ears, and wool (depending on what time of year you’re planning to visit Nordkapp).

Nordkapp and Magerøya are Not ‘Actually’ the Top of Europe

Taking out Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands, most people think that Nordkapp is the very top of Europe. 

Well, it’s not.  In fact, you will have to head to another part of Norway (Mehamn Airport is where you’d fly into) slightly east to see the place that takes the honors. 

However, driving wise, Nordkapp is pretty much the top of Europe and you can still get excited about your visit.

So, where is the northernmost point in Europe?  Again, Svalbard and northern islands aside, you can find the northernmost point in Europe at Cape Nordkinn near Mehamn, Norway.

Reindeer on Magerøya

Yes, you will see reindeer on Magerøya and you will see many reindeer at Nordkapp (or at least on your way there). 

We saw heaps and I pretty much shouted with excitement every few minutes.  They will sometimes be on the roads, so drive cautiously and make sure you give them the right away.

The reindeer are only partially wild and are owned by locals.  You will see markings on them indicating this. 

When Aram and I went to Nordkapp in June, the young reindeer calves were frolicking in the wild but never went too far from their mothers. 

Please be respectful and take photos with a zoom lens and don’t get too close and disturb them.

Driving on Magerøya

It was fairly easy to drive because there were not many cars on the roads there. 

On the other hand, there are many camper vans driving around (a lot of travelers from Germany and the Netherlands make the drive north). 

Be careful on narrow roads with the campers as it can be a bit difficult to judge the distances. 

On the other hand, people may willingly pick you up if you’re hitchhiking.  We grabbed a ride from a Dutch couple going from Honningsvåg to Hammerfest.

Fog and crappy weather may also present a problem.  Be ready and prepared!

Birds on Magerøya

As if reindeer weren’t cool enough, Magerøya is also home to several types of birds… including……….. Puffins!  Could the North Cape get any cooler?

One place on Magerøya that is known for birdwatching is Gjesvær.  There is a bird safari there that will take you out for some time to check out puffins, gannets, eagles, and much more. 

If you’re looking to do a little bit of birdwatching in Nordkapp, definitely check out Ola’s Bird Safari here.

Nordkapp Ticket Prices 

Visiting Nordkapp is not free.  But if you came all the way to this part of the world, you likely already expected that.  Here are the current prices for Nordkapp.  Please check here to see if there are any changes before going.

• Adult Nordkapp ticket:  285 NOK
• Children (under 15) ticket:  95 NOK
• Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children):  665 NOK
• Students and military ticket:  180 NOK

These tickets include parking and admission to everything on-site, including museums, gift shops, exhibitions, monuments, etc.  It is valid for 24-hours and can be used multiple times in one day.

Nordkapp Hours and Visiting Information

Nordkapp is not open 24 hours a day even though the monument is outside.  But, it is open every single day of the year which is pretty cool.  The hours for visiting Nordkapp in 2019 are as follows:

• May 18 – August 17:  1100-0100
• August 18 – August 31:  1100-2200
• September 1 – May 17:  1100-1500

If you’re looking to double-check these hours as they are subject to change, click here.

What to Expect and Do at the North Cape

Nordkapp Globe Monument

This is the famous monument that sits at the top of the world and that everyone aspires to photograph and get a picture of themselves in front of. 

I tried the whole ‘picture of myself in front of it’, but the evidence of lack of sleep for days took over and it was rough.  That’s okay.  I know I was there.  So does Aram.

The area is packed and you will be lucky to get a photo of the monument without others in it. 

It’s all good because as soon as you see people’s excitement for having made it so far north (many come on motorcycles and bikes), you will feel super inspired and elated by their happiness that you will want to have them in the photos anyway.

Children of the Earth Monument

One of our favorite things at Nordkapp was the Children of the Earth Monument. 

The monument sits in front of the Nordkapphallen and is a compilation of drawings from seven children from various parts of the world.  It was built in 1989 and features children from both the US and Soviet Union. 

It is supposed to symbolize cooperation and friendship and I think there is no better way to get that message across than with children who come into this world without bias.

Museum Dedicated to a Thai King

One of the more interesting things you will find when you visit Nordkapp is a museum dedicated to a former Thai King. 

Yep, you read that right.  King Chulalongkorn of Siam (now Thailand) visited the North Cape in July 1907 and there is a small exhibition in a room that is dedicated to his trip there. 

I find it quite interesting how a place like Nordkapp has been able to attract visitors from all over the globe… and King Chulalongkorn’s visit is truly proof of that.

Gift Shop and Cafe

Inside of the North Cape Hall is a very large gift shop (so many stuffed animal toys- it was hard to resist) and a cafe and restaurant. 

The weather outside was really cold so we found refuge in walking around the gift shop for much longer than we had expected and it was nice to have an option to grab some food on-site, although we opted not to. 

There is nothing else around Nordkapp, so the restaurant was a welcomed option in the event that we became hungry.

Motorcyclist and Cyclists Everywhere

I knew that cycling or taking a motorcycle to the Nordkapp was a popular thing amongst riders, but I didn’t realize how popular it was.  They were everywhere! 

It was pretty cool seeing that the space I shared with these travelers was when they were reaching the end of their journey or the beginning of it. 

I can only imagine the stories they could have shared (if I hadn’t been too cold and ran back inside).

While I loved seeing the motorcyclists and cyclists there, I found the motorcycles and bikes that were around the globe monument to be a bit annoying, to be honest. 

It was hard to navigate around and it felt as though the entire Nordkapp belonged to them and no other travelers. 

I remember wishing that the tourism office would ban the bikes from being that close to the monument. 

But then again, what fun would it be to drive all the way to the Nordkapp and not get a picture of your bike or motorcycle by the very thing you aspire to visit? 

So, I get it and realized that I lazily accomplished nothing by flying and taking a rental car up there while these people really made a journey of the entire trip.  That is pretty freaking cool.

Nordkapp Museum

Along with all the other interesting exhibitions at the North Cape Hall, there is a really cool and interactive museum there dedicated to the local flora and fauna and lifestyles of the locals there. 

We really enjoyed this museum and it even had a cool northern lights display area.

It showed the various animals that call the region home and I found it extremely educational as I haven’t spent too much time in the tundra.

This is not to be confused with the Nordkapp Museum that is located in the city of Honningsvåg closeby. 

Near the Hurtigruten docks, you will find a museum that is dedicated to Nordkapp and it has a lot of informative details about the Nordkapp area and wildlife and history.

Popping Champagne at Nordkapp is Not Uncommon

There used to be a Champagne room at Nordkapp and it blew away a long, long time ago. 

But it is still common to see people pop open a bottle of Champagne at the Nordkapp to celebrate reaching such a monumentally epic place. 

Aram and I are not drinking this year, so it was not an option for us, but we enjoyed seeing others do it.

Nordkapp Panorama Film

One of our favorite things to do at Nordkapp was to watch the panorama film they had on show inside of the Nordkapp Hall. 

There was a nice, decent-sized theatre inside that frequently showed a film about the landscape, history, seasonal changes, etc of Nordkapp. 

You can see Nordkapp from the year’s snowy beginnings to the long, endless days in July and then back to winter. 

It really gives a great insight into the area and the harsh landscape that make it so mysterious and magical at the same time.

Find out more about the panorama film here.

Can you Visit Nordkapp if You have Mobility Issues or are Disabled?

Yes, absolutely.  They have wheelchairs on-site and there are elevators and ramps everywhere that allow access to every part of the museum and building. 

The globe monument is also accessible to everyone, regardless of mobility issues or disabilities.

Where to Stay in Nordkapp

We stayed at two places in Honnigsvåg during our stay up at the Nordkapp.  Here is where we stayed and our quick thoughts on both:

Scandic Bryggen (Honningsvåg)

The first place we stayed was the beautiful Scandic Bryggen hotel that sits right on the Honningsvåg harbor. 

This hotel has all the amenities you could want, including an on-site restaurant with really delicious food and breakfast. 

Breakfast is always free at Scandics in Norway.  The rooms were modern and the wifi worked pretty well despite being in a remote part of the world.  

–> For current rates and availability click here | Read reviews on TripAdvisor

Nordkapp Vandrerhjem

Part hostel, part hotel… this place Honningsvåg accommodation is not located in the city center as the one above was, but rather on a road in another part of the city (right by a bus stop to Hammerfest and Alta, FYI). 

The place reminded me of a place I stayed when visiting Svalbard years back which was a mining dorm converted into a hotel.  It is basic accommodation with twin beds and a shared bathroom.  The walls were a bit thin, so bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.

We really enjoyed our time here and were able to make dinner as they had a full-stocked kitchen.  The staff was also insanely friendly and we loved chatting with them.  The great thing about Nordkapp Vandrerhjem is that it was for people of all ages. 

It was not a party palace but a place where people all kind of connected at the end of the world.  I would stay there again in a heartbeat.  This is a great place to stay when you visit Nordkapp.

–> For current rates and availability click here | Read reviews on TripAdvisor

We had such an epic trip to Nordkapp and I still can’t get over the fact that I finally saw this otherworldly part of Norway with my own eyes and with my best friend. 

We still reminisce about it and can’t wait to venture back there someday.  If you have any questions as you plan your trip to visit Nordkapp, please leave them in the comments!  We will do our best to answer them.

*Special thanks to Visit Nordkapp and Visit Northern Norway for hosting us and making this trip possible.  It was one of the best trips of my life.  All opinions are our own.

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