Things to Do in Lofoten Islands
Jagged peaks rising from the sea, red fishing cabins and Arctic beaches.
See top-rated activities »About Lofoten
The Lofoten Islands form a chain of granite mountains strung out into the Norwegian Sea north of the Arctic Circle, connected by bridges and tunnels along the E10 road. The Gulf Stream keeps the climate milder than the latitude suggests, and for centuries huge shoals of cod have come here to spawn in late winter. Cod is still split and hung to dry on wooden racks in spring, and many of the old fishermen's cabins, the red rorbuer on stilts over the water, are now places to stay.
The most photographed villages are in the west. Reine and Hamnoy sit among peaks that drop straight into the sea, and the stone steps up Reinebringen lead to a famous view over Reine, though the climb is steep. At the end of the road, the village of A has a fishing village museum and a stockfish museum. Nusfjord, on the south side, is one of the best-preserved fishing villages in Norway. In the middle of the islands, Henningsvaer is a lively fishing village of galleries and cafes, known for its football pitch on a rocky islet, and at Borg the Lofotr Viking Museum has reconstructed an 83-meter chieftain's longhouse on the site where the original was found.
The islands are also known for their beaches. Haukland and Uttakleiv have white sand and turquoise water under the mountains, and Unstad is a cold-water surfing spot. Svolvaer, the main town, is the base for boat and RIB trips into the narrow Trollfjord and for sea-eagle safaris. Summer brings the midnight sun and the best hiking; winter brings northern lights and snowy peaks. You can reach Lofoten by flying to Svolvaer or Leknes, by car ferry from Bodo or by road through the Lofast connection from the mainland. Rental cars and campervans are popular, but roads are narrow, so allow plenty of time between villages.
Don’t Miss
Red cabins on the water beneath steep peaks, the classic view of Lofoten.
A reconstructed Viking chieftain's longhouse with costumed guides, feasts and a Viking ship.
A village on small islands with galleries, cafes and its well-known football pitch.
One of Norway's oldest and best-preserved fishing villages, now a museum village and resort.
A white-sand beach with clear water and mountain walks nearby.
A narrow fjord between Lofoten and Vesteralen, reached on boat and RIB trips from Svolvaer.
Top-Rated Tours, Tickets & Activities in Lofoten
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ViatorTours, tickets, prices and reviews from Viator (a Tripadvisor company) and Tiqets — prices are per person, from, and were checked October 28, 2026. Best in Norway may earn a commission when you book, at no extra cost to you.
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Get free trip quotes »Lofoten — FAQ
How many days do you need in Lofoten?
At least three days to drive from Svolvaer to A with stops; five days or more if you want to hike and spend time at the beaches.
When is the best time to visit Lofoten?
June to August for hiking, beaches and the midnight sun; September for autumn colors and the first northern lights; February and March for snow-covered peaks, aurora and the cod season.
How do I get to the Lofoten Islands?
Fly to Svolvaer or Leknes via Bodo, take the car ferry from Bodo to Moskenes, or drive the E10 from the mainland near Narvik through the Lofast road link.
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