Lofoten Travel Guide

Explore Norway's stunning Lofoten Islands with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to stay, food & drink scene, and local culture of Lofoten.


Introduction to Lofoten

Nestled in the heart of Nordland, Northern Norway, Lofoten is one of the most picturesque archipelagos in the world. With its rugged peaks, majestic fjords, and white sandy beaches, Lofoten boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history.

Whether you want to go kayaking, hiking, or cycling, Lofoten offers an array of exciting outdoor activities that cater to every level of experience. You can explore its four main islands - Austvågøya, Gimsøya, Vestvågøya, and Flakstadøy - and discover its quaint fishing villages, stunning vistas, and rich cultural heritage.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Lofoten, we’ll take you on a journey through the best things to do, places to stay, food & drink scene, and local culture of the archipelago.

List of Places to Visit in Lofoten

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lofoten Museums - Learn about the history and culture of Lofoten at the Lofoten Museums in Kabelvåg. The museum houses a variety of exhibitions and artefacts that showcase the livelihoods of Lofoten’s past and present.

  • Lofotr Viking Museum - Experience the Viking way of life at the Lofotr Viking Museum on the island of Vestvågøya. The museum offers a unique insight into the lives of the Viking chieftains and provides an interactive experience with traditional crafts and food.

  • Espolin Gallery - Admire the works of the renowned Norwegian artist, Kaare Espolin Johnson, at the Espolin Gallery in Kabelvåg. The gallery displays a unique collection of the artist’s paintings inspired by Lofoten’s landscapes, fishing villages, and people.

Natural Attractions of Lofoten: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Reinefjorden - Take a boat trip through the stunning Reinefjorden, one of the most photographed fjords in Norway. Marvel at the majestic peaks rising from the fjord, and spot sea eagles and seals along the way.

  • Mount Hoven - Hike to the top of Mount Hoven, one of the highest peaks in Lofoten. The trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of the archipelago, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch the Northern Lights in the winter months.

  • Unstad Beach - For surfers, Unstad Beach on the island of Vestvågøya is an excellent spot to surf in the arctic waters. You can also watch the surfers catch some waves while admiring the stunning scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lofoten

Hiking Routes

  • Reinebringen - The hike to the top of Reinebringen is challenging but worth the effort for the magnificent views of Reine and the surrounding archipelago.

  • Tjeldbergtinden - Hike to the top of Tjeldbergtinden in Moskenesøy for a panoramic view of the southern part of Lofoten and the Vestfjord.

  • Ryten - Hike to the top of Ryten in Kvalvika for a breathtaking view of the white sandy beach and the turquoise waters of Kvalvika Bay.

Biking Routes

  • Austvågøya - Discover the scenic roads of Austvågøya on a bike tour, passing by historic fishing villages such as Henningsvær and Stamsund.

  • Gimsøya - Bike along the coastal road of Gimsøya and enjoy the stunning views of the fjords and the mighty mountains.

Best Things to Do in Lofoten: Activities and Tours

  • Sea Eagle Safari - Join a sea eagle safari and get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. The safari takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Lofoten and includes a picnic lunch on a deserted beach.

  • Kayaking - Explore Lofoten’s intricate waterways on a sea kayaking tour. You can choose to kayak for a few hours or embark on a multi-day expedition.

  • Northern Lights Tour - Witness one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, the Northern Lights, on a guided tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lofoten

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Leknes and explore the town
Day 2 Hike to Reinebringen and visit Reine village
Day 3 Kayaking in Nusfjord and visit Lofoten Museums
Day 4 Surfing in Unstad Beach and visit Henningsvær
Day 5 Explore the island of Flakstadøy and hike to Ryten
Day 6 Join a sea eagle safari and visit the viking museum
Day 7 Northern Lights tour and depart from Leknes

Food and Drink Scene of Lofoten

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stockfish - Try the traditional Lofoten dish, stockfish, which is dried cod that has been hung out to dry for several months. It’s often served with potatoes and carrots.

  • Reindeer Meat - Reindeer meat is a staple of Nordic cuisine, and Lofoten has some of the best reindeer meat in the region, often served with lingonberry sauce.

  • Fish Soup - Lofoten is also known for its rich fish soup, made with fresh seafood and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Aquavit - Aquavit is one of Norway’s most traditional alcoholic beverages, often served with a meal or as a digestif.

  • Beer – Lofoten has a thriving micro-brewery scene, and you can taste locally brewed beers at various places around the archipelago.

Where to Stay in Lofoten: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Henningsvær Bryggehotell - This charming hotel is located in the picturesque fishing village of Henningsvær and offers excellent views of the fjord.

  • Svinøya Rorbuer - Stay in one of the traditional rorbus (fisherman’s huts) at Svinøya Rorbuer in Svolvær. The huts are beautifully decorated with traditional features and offer stunning sea views.

  • Lofoten Vandrerhjem - For a budget-friendly option, Lofoten Vandrerhjem in Kabelvåg offers bright and clean rooms and is conveniently located near Lofoten Museums.

What to Buy in Lofoten: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts - Lofoten is known for its beautiful handcrafted items such as knitwear, wooden carvings, and glasswork.

  • Fish Products - Take home some of the region’s delicious fresh and dried seafood, including stockfish, cod roe, and smoked salmon.

Local Culture and Customs of Lofoten

  • Cod Fishing - Cod fishing has been a vital part of Lofoten’s culture and history for centuries, and the locals have developed a deep respect and appreciation for the ocean’s bounty.

  • Music and Dance - Lofoten has a rich musical heritage, with local musicians playing traditional Nordic folk music with various instruments such as the fiddle, accordion, and guitar.

Best Time to Visit Lofoten

The best time to visit Lofoten is from late May to early August when the weather is milder and the days are longer. However, if you’re a fan of winter sports and the Northern Lights, then the winter months from December to February are the ideal time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lofoten

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and wildlife
  • Take your time to explore the archipelago; Lofoten is not a place to rush
  • Try local cuisine and engage with local people

Don’t:

  • Litter - there are no excuses, there are plenty of trash cans to use
  • Disturb the birds or animals
  • Hike without a proper gear - Lofoten’s weather can be challenging, especially in higher areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Lofoten

Lofoten is a safe place for visitors, with a low crime rate and high safety standards. However, visitors are advised to exercise caution when hiking or kayaking alone, especially in remote areas, and to be mindful of weather conditions.

Health in Lofoten

Lofoten has excellent healthcare facilities, with several clinics and hospitals across the archipelago. Visitors are encouraged to have travel insurance and be aware of any health risks such as hypothermia and mosquito bites during the summer months.

Getting to Lofoten: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lofoten

  • Leknes Airport (LKN) - located on the island of Vestvågøya with direct flights from Oslo and Bodø with Widerøe.

  • Svolvær Helle Airport (SVJ) - located on the island of Austvågøya with direct flights from Bodø with Widerøe.

  • Harstad/Narvik Airport (EVE) - located on the mainland with direct flights from Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim with SAS and Widerøe.

Bus Stations Near Lofoten

  • Narvik Bus Terminal - Several bus operators connect Narvik with Lofoten, including Lofoten Express and Torghatten Nord.

  • Svolvær Bus Terminal - The primary bus terminal in Lofoten, with several bus connections to other parts of Lofoten and the mainland.

  • Leknes Bus Terminal - Provides bus connections to other parts of Lofoten and Narvik.

Other Options

  • Hurtigruten Coastal Express - The Hurtigruten ferry service stops at several ports in Lofoten, providing a unique and scenic way to explore the archipelago.

How to Get Around in Lofoten

The best way to get around Lofoten is by car or motorhome, allowing you to explore the archipelago at your own pace. However, visitors can also use public transportation such as buses and ferries, or rent a bicycle to discover Lofoten’s scenic routes.

Where to Go Next from Lofoten: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Senja - Located just across the fjord from Lofoten, Senja boasts stunning scenery and is known for its rugged mountains, lakes, and ice caves.

  • Tromsø - Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø is a vibrant city with a lively cultural scene and is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights.

  • Narvik - Nestled between two mountain ranges and a fjord, Narvik is a picturesque town known for its winter sports and breathtaking views.

Conclusion

Lofoten is an awe-inspiring archipelago that combines natural beauty, culture, and history in a unique way. Whether you’re a hiker, beach lover, surfer, or culture enthusiast, Lofoten has something to offer. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your perfect trip to this stunning part of Norway and experience all that Lofoten has to offer.

Reine, a village in the Lofoten Islands, viewed from above Reine, a village in the Lofoten Islands, viewed from above Henningsvaer Henningsvaer Trollfjord Trollfjord Drying racks for stockfish Drying racks for stockfish Evening view of Austnesfjorden and Sildpollnes Church, Austvågøya Evening view of Austnesfjorden and Sildpollnes Church, Austvågøya Afternoon at Tennfjorden, Raftsundet, Hinnøya Afternoon at Tennfjorden, Raftsundet, Hinnøya Moskenes from the ferry Moskenes from the ferry A view from Austvågøya to Gimsøystraumen in Lofoten. The bridge on the right is the Gimsøystraumen Bridge. A view from Austvågøya to Gimsøystraumen in Lofoten. The bridge on the right is the Gimsøystraumen Bridge. Cod drying near Å Cod drying near Å Port in Svolvær Port in Svolvær