Summer in
Northern Norway
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Welcome to Northern Norway – where nature
will surprise you, and the culture will amaze you.
The bright time of year in the Arctic is not only an experience –
it's a state of mind.
1. The midnight sun
Watch the midnight sun paint the landscape in a golden hue on everlasting summer nights.
Lose track of time above the Arctic Circle where the sun never sets. You can try your first midnight hike through the mysterious Torghatten mountain in Helgeland (pictured), for example.
2. Hiking & biking
Hike majestic mountains and winding coastal paths.
There are also plenty of cycling opportunities...from mountain biking in the Lyngen Alps to tour cycling along some of the region's spectacular scenic roads.
3. Fun activities
Glittering fjords and unspoilt nature await you.
Sunbathe or swim at one of the white beaches with turquoise water. Check out some of Norway's top kayaking spots. You can even go surfing!
4. Fishing
The seafood here is world-class, and you might just get the catch of your life.
Enjoy the fresh salty air on a fishing trip aboard a traditional Norwegian fishing boat, or perhaps a king crab safari is more your style?
5. Cosy fishing villages
You should visit some of the region's small, unique fishing villages like Nusfjord (pictured) in Lofoten, or the ones in Senja or Salten. Learn more about their history and visit their cosy cafés and galleries.
Vesterålen is the perfect place to visit if you would like to go whale watching, or join a puffin or moose safari.
6. Island hopping
Other bucket list activities in the region include island hopping along the Helgeland coast and travelling along one of the world's most beautiful roads, Kystriksveien.
Scenic spots like Træna (pictured) and the UNESCO-listed Vega islands are waiting for you!
7. Bodø
The European Capital of Culture for 2024 is the Northern Norwegian city of Bodø. Enjoy art galleries, niche shops, local food, stunning nature and exciting hiking opportunities.
Visit the idyllic, old trading post at Kjerringøy, and witness the power of the world's strongest maelstrom, Saltstraumen.
8. Tromsø
The biggest city in this region is Tromsø – the world's northernmost university town.
In this vibrant city you can show off your best moves on a night out, visit cool art exhibits and admire innovative architecture.
The Tromsø Cable Car leads to a panoramic view at the top of Mount Storsteinen.
9. Narvik and the Arctic railway
The cable car in Narvik offers a quick and easy trip to the top of Mount Narvikfjellet, resulting in spectacular views.
From Narvik you can embark on a short, but incredible train journey along the Ofoten Line. It's Norway's northernmost railway and stretches from Narvik to the Swedish border.
10. Sample Arctic cuisine
Fresh seafood is in abundance in Northern Norway, where you can try everything from Arctic cod (Skrei) to salmon and dried stockfish.
Seafood is not the only culinary treasure of the region. The Arctic kitchen is a feast of flavours, and exclusive reindeer and tender lamb are must tries if you get the chance.
11. Sami culture
Listen to the ethereal sound of the joik.
This part of Norway is where the majority of the country's indigenous people, the Sami live, and their ancient song tradition is simply captivating.
Experience their culture and lifestyle in places like Karasjok and Kautokeino.
12. Alta
Alta is off the beaten path so it's a great place to get close to nature. Combine excellent food and Arctic wilderness by spending a night at Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge, or Trasti & Trine where you can also hike with huskies.
Visit the town's architectural wonder, the Northern Lights Cathedral, or check out Northern Europe's biggest canyon, Alta Canyon.
13. The North Cape
Travel to mainland Europe's northernmost point, the North Cape.
Visit the plateau atop a 307-metre high cliff and take in the panoramic view of the sea. There's a good chance you'll see reindeer and puffins in the area.
14. Varanger and Kirkenes
If you're fascinated by wild and raw nature, then you should definitely visit Varanger. It's a mecca for Arctic birdwatching!
Driving along the rocky, barren landscape of the Varanger Scenic Route feels like you're on the moon.
Continue on to Kirkenes and stay at an ice hotel, even in the summer!
15. Svalbard
The Svalbard Islands lie halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. The area offers exotic nature-based activities in a landscape that is both rugged and fragile.
Despite it being pretty remote, Longyearbyen is a lively multicultural town with several restaurants to choose from.
16. Unique places to stay
Wherever you go, there are plenty of unique places to stay.
Experience the slow life at a lighthouse like Tranøy in Hamarøy, or at an old fishermen's cabin, known as a rorbu. You could also stay at a cosy cabin in the mountains or by the coast.
17. Travel from port to port
The perfect way to cruise the Northern Norwegian coast is onboard the Coastal Express, operated by Hurtigruten and Havila. You can explore the entire northern coastline or plan your own port to port route.
These ships have upper decks from which you can enjoy the rugged nature from a different perspective. Have your camera ready, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings.
Hot tip!
Travel outside the high season, in April/May or September/October.
The light can be particularly special at this time of year, and you might get a bit of nature all to yourself. The Nordland region is usually quite busy in July and August, while Troms and Finnmark get fewer crowds.
The northern lights can reappear in early September.
Ready to explore Europe's
northernmost region?
Find a detailed map, hotels, restaurants, transport and more.
Winter in Northern Norway
Winter wonderland is ready for you.