An urban haven on a dramatic and sparsely inhabited coast, Hammerfest is the world's northernmost city with more than 10,000 inhabitants. It's full of life and outdoor adventure!
Hammerfest
Arctic city Hammerfest rises dramatically like a mirage on the horizon of Finnmark's barren coastline.
Surrounded by mountains, sandy beaches, and stunning coastal landscapes, Hammerfest is an excellent starting point for an active holiday!
For the best panoramic views, hike up the zigzag path to the top of Salen hill, just a 15-minute walk from the city centre!
The Struve Geodetic Arc marks the location that was once used to work out the size of the Earth, and is now on UNESCO's World Heritage list!
Wait, is that a ... camel?
That's right! Join a camel safari, or try to spot other wildlife like reindeer, eagles and whales. There is so much to see!
If you are a true fishing enthusiast – this is the place to be!
Here, you will find some of Norway’s best spots to catch big trophy fish, both in the sea and the nearby lakes and rivers.
Want to see both the midnight sun and white, tropical looking beaches? Hammerfest has both.
Just be aware that the water may be a bit chilly ... it's for real Vikings!
After a long day of activities, wind down in a dome while watching the northern lights (in the wintertime, if you are in luck), or stay at a comfy hotel in the city.
For hiking enthusiasts, Hammerfest is a definite winner. The landscape may be barren, but it offers good hiking and gentle ascents. It's easy to navigate by following the coastline and mountain peaks.
Try Tyventrappa Sherpa stairway for stunning views of the Sørøysundet strait from Mount Tyven – under the midnight sun or the northern lights – from a cabin that has won awards for its unique design. Shelter there if you experience some of the Finnmark coast's stormy weather.
When cruise ships are in port, the city assumes an almost carnival-like atmosphere. In recent years, Hammerfest has begun to emerge as Finnmark's culinary capital. When it's time for a bite to eat, enjoy everything from a traditional Sami dish to fantastic sushi.
There are several options for getting to Hammerfest.
Being one of the oldest cities in Norway, it might strike you as odd how modern Hammerfest looks. The city's history includes various attempts by men and Mother Nature to wipe it from the map. The most drastic attempt was made by the Nazis in 1945, when the order came down that “no building be left standing”. Gjenreisningsmuseet, the Museum of Reconstruction, commemorates the cold, bleak years following the war's destruction. Today, many colourful houses from the 1950s dot the city.
Find more inspiration on Hammerfest’s official website.
Explore all the options below, or go directly to:
Attractions | Where to stay | Transport
Attractions in Hammerfest
HammerfestHammerfest church
The Protestant Church of Hammerfest was built by architect Hans Magnus, who among other things also designed the northernmost church in the world on Svalbard. It was consecrated in 1961. The triangle served as a leitmotif for the Church, both as a symbol of the Holy Trinity and also as a reference to the traditional fish drying racks, which are still used to produce the stockfish. The wall behind the altar is a mosaic image, which was completely composed of Norwegian stones and completed in 1972. The small windows on the sides show symbols of the Christian faith. The glass mosaic on the back wall was created by Jardar Lunde. The ceiling's wood paneling is reminiscent of an upturned boat. The wood carvings on the organ gallery show among other things the old Hammerfest churches and were made by the local artists Eva and Knut Arnesen. The organ itself was established in 2010 and has 1782 pipes. Its shape reflects the triangular architecture of the whole Church.
HammerfestSt. Michael's Church
St. Michael's Church in Hammerfest is the northernmost permanently served Catholic Church in the world. It is already the third Catholic Church in Hammerfest, after the first one from 1878, which was replaced by a bigger one shortly after in 1885 that was burnt down in WWII. As a sign of compensation for the destruction during the war, it was built with donations from Germany and consecrated in 1957. The Swiss architect L. F. Lothenbach offered his services free of charge and his plans were implemented by the Danish architect Bent Packness, who worked in Hammerfest at the time. The wooden crucifix was carved by the German prisoner of war Georg Wimmer in 1945 in Tromsø.
HammerfestSot Bar & Burger
The first SOT restaurant was established in Trondheim by two buddies, David and Kjartan in 2014. The goal was to create a place they themselves dreamed of hanging out in, with great food and drinks. A decision was made. They wanted to serve juicy burgers, and it was supposed to be the best and most legendary burger around. The boys packed their bags and went to New York to get inspiration for ingredients, fries and dips from the most legendary burger joints in the state. When they returned home, they turned their knowledge into what is todays SOT Bar & Burger, a sophisticated, but unassuming and sizzling burger garden with a Nordic touch - with employees who are passionate about juicy burgers, local beer, good atmosphere and personal service. As SOT won more hearts and palates than the original place in Trondheim could saturate, we have become more. The northernmost restaurant in the chain is located in Hammerfest, and is co-located with a bowling alley, Niska Sushi and Slakteriet - a live stage that houses concerts, parties, quiz nights and much more. We at SOT are passionate about being the best at a burger with good accessories. The menu consists of a selection of burgers where you can choose between beef, chicken, beetroot or plant-based burger. The raw materials we use are of the very best variety. The same is the service. With us, you will meet a unique atmosphere and dedicated chefs and bartenders who work together to create fantastic food and a good atmosphere among the guests - all at a reasonable price. With continuous innovation in the burger menu and a vibrant beer selection, we offer uncompromising taste experiences in a tough, informal and inclusive atmosphere. Welcome!
![images[1]](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/jlrwvnbf/commercial/d4ba68a9ba30cfee72f3fd3231c5e96bb3febf09-800x600.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=max&auto=format)
![images[1]](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/jlrwvnbf/commercial/aa62e90dd54161ce9c549d2891c8b390597a8975-800x600.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=max&auto=format)
![images[1]](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/jlrwvnbf/commercial/1a85da5c4feb1868b0b45d3cbf14749cb90f98c2-799x528.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=max&auto=format)
![images[1]](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/jlrwvnbf/commercial/286d3585443bbb240365468f8fa88ed12107d781-800x600.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=max&auto=format)
Where to stay
![images[1]](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/jlrwvnbf/commercial/05d94c90d815ec24ea3ec711c54ebd1a4273e60f-799x449.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=max&auto=format)
AkkarfjordBismarvik vacation home
Bismarvik vacation home is a charming old house that used to be a small farm. The house has an amazing location right next to the ocean, surrounded by mountains and nature. Here you really get an escape from the citylife. The accomodation is perfect for hikers, small happenings and family gatherings - but also for solo visitors.
![images[1]](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/jlrwvnbf/commercial/699fe8e00057cd704b8097cb90abc6ae61668255-799x975.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=max&auto=format)
Getting here and around
Get in-depth travel information on Hammerfest's official website.
Plan your trip and buy tickets for public transportation with Entur, Norway's national travel planner.
Travel through Northern Norway
Get inspired
Seasons and climate
In spite of its location in the far north, Hammerfest has no permafrost as the annual temperature is approximately 2 °C (36 °F). The temperature varies from an average −5 °C (23 °F) in January to 11 °C (52 °F) in July.
The driest months are May, June, and July, with an average of 50 millimetres (2 inches) of rainfall. The wettest period is October through December.
During the summer months, there is continuous daylight, while during winter, the sun does not rise above the horizon. Read more about the midnight sun.
Get the latest weather forecast on yr.no.
Or check out or northern lights forecast.
Read more about the northern lights.
Take advantage of top offers
See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.
Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
Rent-A-Wreck of Scandinavia ASThe smart and affordable car rental alternative.
SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.
Benzini CampersThe adventure of your life starts here. Book a campervan with Benzini Campers now.
