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The fishing village of Reine in winter, Northern Norway
A bridge in the sunset
Northern lights over Reine in Lofoten

LOFOTEN

in winter

PS: Try Lofoten in summer, too!

It's all about the light.

Countless shades of blue…

…orange…

…and green.

Winter is aurora time, when the stunning northern lights are visible from September to March.

The rapidly changing weather and magnificent light conditions have drawn artists and outdoor enthusiasts to this area for decades.

The Lofoten Islands are spread across the turbulent waters of the Norwegian Sea, above the Arctic Circle. This rare wilderness outpost offers a landscape of majestic mountains, deep fjords, long, wave-swept beaches, and quaint fishing villages.

Lofoten has a strong connection to the Viking Age. Excellent fishing has always been a key reason why people have lived here for millennia.

Thanks to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, Lofoten has a much milder climate than other parts of the world at the same latitude.

Find inspiration below, or go directly to:

Woman outside the Nusfjord Landhandel shop
Woman with cinnamon buns
A pottery maker in her shop
A harbour in low sunlight and high mountains behind

Winter is a great time to explore the tranquility of the many idyllic fishing villages, like Nusfjord, pictured here.

Find a calm like no other.

But winter is also a time for great fun!

Local fishermen rub shoulder with hipsters, families and art lovers in Henningsvær, where you can experience the holiday spirit during the famous Førjulseventyret pre-Christmas celebrations in November and December.

Happy vibes in Henningsvær

Visit cosy cafés and hotels, includingTrevarefabrikken, and…

…the artisans atEngelskmannsbrygga, one of many quirky shops and art galleries on the island.

You should also visit Svolvær, the tiny, but always buzzing, 'capital' of Lofoten, and a great base for winter adventures, including boat trips to Trollfjorden.

Famous fishing villages

All worth a visit!

A woman catching a fish
Stockfish of skrei
Seafood on a table

Winter is also gourmet time!

Every year, between February and March, migrating Atlantic cod, called skrei, come to Lofoten to spawn.

This is the fish that built Norway, and led to numerous small settlements being established in this remote area.

If the weather is good, you can join a fishing trip and try your fishing luck (there's even a sexy little local tip for that!).

There are daily trips from Svolvær and other locations on request.

Learn all about skrei

Most of the skrei is hung on racks, where the salty wind dries them to make stockfish.

Enjoy it grilled, baked, cooked, as a dried snack, or even as a pizza topping!

13 fun facts about stockfish

But super-fresh seafood is not the only treat after a full day outside.

You should also try the famous Lofoten lamb, cloudberry delicacies, and some wonderful locally produced cheeses!

Delicious!

Fish & trips

Learn more about skrei and other tasty secrets from Lofoten.

Where to eat in Lofoten

Get to know the first skilled craftsmen that settled in Lofoten!

Travel back in time at the Lofotr Viking Museum in Borg, one of several museums that are open throughout the winter.

Cool indoor experiences

Note: some museums and galleries may be closed or have limited opening hours in winter. Always check the website before you go.

More museums and galleries
A group of people are riding under the northern lights on a beach in Lofoten, Northern Norway

There are a lot of other winter activities available too.

Up your chances of seeing the auroras with a local guide. You can even try on horseback at Hov Hestegård!

Or go dog sledding through otherworldly landscapes.

Winter activities

Hunt the northern lights or try dog sledding and snowshoeing.

Woman climbing mount Himmeltind on a ski touring trip in Lofoten, Northern Norway

Lofoten in winter is a snow-blanketed paradise!

It's a very popular spot for ski touring (always go with a local guide), year-round surfing, or simply strolling around in an unforgettable landscape.

Why you should go with a guide

Ski touring

Always go with a local guide for your safety and for the best runs!

Winter also means cold, stormy weather.

Indulge with a hot sauna or spa! Aaah…

Warm up!

Ice and fire, combined. Nothing beats the sensation.

A woman in front of a fisherman´s cabin

At the end of the day, climb into bed in a cosy rorbu, traditional fisherman's cabin, by the edge of the sea.

It's just as magical with a storm blowing outside, as on a calm, sunny day.

Places to stay

Stay in a cosy rorbu or book a hotel room with a view!

More places to stay

After a long winter, spring arrives!

Suddenly the nights are white and eternal. Spring is also a very tranquil and beautiful time of year to visit.

What are you waiting for?

Lofoten has achieved the certification Sustainable Destination. Although this does not mean that the destination is completely sustainable, it has made a commitment to work systematically to reduce the negative effects of tourism, while strengthening its positive ripple effects.

Lofoten logoVisit Lofoten

What's the weather like?

Winter in the Arctic can start as early as October and might last until almost the end of April.

Since the Lofoten Islands lie so far out in the warmer waters of the Gulf Stream, its climate is costal and much warmer than other Arctic destinations. The temperature often fluctuates between -5°C to 3°C.

How dark does it get?

The days become shorter as early as in October, but Lofoten only has mørketid, 'the dark time', for 5-6 weeks, from the beginning of December until early January.

But it's not completely dark all day. You can have several hours of daylight, especially on clear days. The sun never disappears completely, it only dips below and hovers above the horizon, often lighting up the clouds from below, creating the wildest colours you've ever seen. Enjoy the beautiful 'blue hour' just before dusk and dawn every day.

Although the hours of daylight are scarce from mid-November until the end of January, it is also a very nice and tranquil period, with great opportunities to see the auroras!

In February, the days become longer, and the ski touring season and Lofoten seasonal fishery are on. By April 1, the sky is once again too bright to see the aurora until next season.

Getting here and around

Plan your trip to Lofoten with Entur, Norway's official travel planner.

  • By plane

    There are frequent flights to regional airports, including Bodø Airport and Lofoten/Harstad/Narvik Airport, and to local airports in Svolvær, Leknes, and Røst.

    The flight from Oslo to Bodø takes 1.5 hours and an additional 20–30 minute flight or approximately 3–4 hour boat ride from there to Lofoten. From Lofoten/Harstad/Evenes it's a 2.5-4 hour drive or bus ride to Lofoten.

    There is also a helicopter service between Bodø and Værøy.

    Ad: Norwegian – cheap flights throughout Europe

  • Local travel

    The E10 (King Olav V’s road) is the main motorway connecting the Lofoten archipelago from west to east. Travelling by public transport requires some planning, especially if you want to go anywhere off the E10, so check the timetables carefully.

    For tickets and timetables, visit Entur

  • By boat

    There are daily express boat services operating year round between Bodø, Svolvær, and Skrova.

    There are car ferries from Bodø to Røst, Værøy and Moskenes in Lofoten year round, and between Hamarøy and Svolvær in summer, and between Lofoten and Melbu in Vesterålen.

    The Norwegian Coastal Voyage Hurtigruten calls at daily Stamsund and Svolvær in Lofoten, while Havila Voyages calls at the same ports two days a week. You can also sail shorter distances between Bodø, Tromsø, and Lofoten, for example.

    Ad: Hurtigruten – the world’s most beautiful sea voyage

  • By bus

    There are daily public bus services from Narvik and the airport at Lofoten/Harstad/Narvik to Svolvær, Leknes and Å (route 300). There are also bus connections from Svolvær to Sortland in Vesterålen.

    For tickets and timetables, visit Entur

  • By car

    If you choose to go by car, there are several options for getting to and from Lofoten. Take one of the car ferries from Bodø (year round) or Skutvik in Hamarøy (summer).

    A boat-free connection from the north of Lofoten, or from Sweden, takes you between the mainland and Lofoten.

    Ad: Auto Europe – car rentals

  • By train

    There are daily train services all year between Narvik and Kiruna, and Stockholm. From Narvik, you can catch a bus to the Lofoten Islands.

    You can also take the train from Oslo to Trondheim, and from Trondheim continue on to Bodø with the Nordland Railway. This latter stretch of the journey takes about 10 hours. From Bodø, you can take a ferry or express boat to Lofoten.

    For tickets and timetables, visit Entur

Best holiday offers in Lofoten

Book your next adventure from our partners.

  • 2-Day Photo Tour of the Lofoten by Book Nordics
    2 Days ・ October - March

    Photo tour of Lofoten

    Explore Lofoten with a pro photographerVisit Gimsøya, Torvdalshalsen, Haukland, Eggum, Unstad, Henningsvær, the Lofoten Cathedral, Napp, Nusfjord, Flakstad Beach, Hamnøy, Reine, Sakrisøya, and more. Accommodation not included. / Booknordics.comPrice From 2 650 NOK
    Book now
  • Silent Trollfjord Cruise by Brim Explorer
    3 Hours ・ January - October

    Silent Trollfjord cruise

    Enjoy Lofoten's most stunning fjord!A classic Lofoten adventure with a modern twist, experience Lofoten’s majestic Trollfjord and its white-tailed eagles in silence and comfort on board a panoramic & hybrid-electric boat. / Brim ExplorerPrice From 1 490 NOK
    Book now
  • The Arctic Circle Region by Up Norway
    12 Days ・ April - October

    The Arctic circle region

    Myths and Marvels in HelgelandOn this journey, you will immerse yourself in the mythical fairy tales of Norway, and become a part of the story of the eternally immortalised trolls in the peculiar mountains around you. / Up NorwayPrice From 53 100 NOK
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  • Lofoten & Northern Lights by 50 Degrees North
    4 Days ・ November - March

    Lofoten & northern lights

    Lofoten archipelago experienceTrip with an aurora-chase guided tour, RIB boat tour, and accommodation in a traditional fisherman's cabin. / 50 Degrees North NordicPrice From 9 498 NOK
    Book now
  • Bike the Lofoten Isles by Discover Norway
    8 Days ・ June - September

    Bike the Lofoten Islands

    Stunning nature and picturesque villagesSelf-guided tour from Svolvær to Reine. Includes accommodation, meals, luggage transfer, a boat transfer, and more. A cycling vacation in Lofoten is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! / Discover NorwayPrice From 19 550 NOK
    Book now
  • Norwegian Coast, Lofoten and Tromso
    11 Days ・ April - September

    Norwegian Havila voyage

    Bergen to Tromsø with an overnight stay in LofotenThis Norwegian Coastal Voyage from Bergen stops in at Ålesund, Geirangerfjord, Trondheim, and Saltstraumen, then disembarks for an overnight stay in Lofoten before continuing to Tromsø. / 50 Degrees North NordicPrice From 26 215 NOK
    Book now
  • Lofoten Islands and Manshausen
    7 Days ・ September - April

    Lofoten Islands and Manshausen

    The perfect autumn or spring adventureSteigen and the Lofoten Islands make up the perfect autumn or spring travel adventure for those seeking an authentic immersion in Norwegian culture, nature, architecture, art and design. / Up NorwayPrice From 47 850 NOK
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  • Lofoten Værøy and Røst
    8 Days ・ June - September

    The best of Lofoten

    The land of the midnight sunWe've selected the best hikes and the most iconic viewpoints, as well as some hidden gems on our tour of Norway's most beautiful archipelago. Dramatic mountains, long white beaches, wild seas, and rich wildlife let you experience Norwegian nature at its very best! / Norrøna AdventurePrice From 33 500 NOK
    Book now
  • Norwegian fishing village on stilts over water with mountains in the background
    8 Days ・ May - July

    Midnight sun tour

    Group experience in Lofoten and SenjaIncludes sea eagle RIB safari, dining at award-winning Kvitnes Gård, visit to the Viking Museum, coastal cruise with Hurtigruten or Havila, tour to Hamn i Senja, and more. / 50 Degrees North NordicPrice From 49 652 NOK
    Book now
  • Fishing village in the Lofoten Islands, with red and white buildings reflected in calm water and dramatic mountain peaks behind.
    7 Days ・ June - August

    Tromsø, Senja & Lofoten

    Arctic summer in Tromsø, Senja & SvolværEmbark on a self-guided bus tour of Tromsø, Senja & Lofoten. Visit charming villages off the beaten track and enjoy scenic backdrops of dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear bays and white sandy beaches. / Authentic ScandinaviaPrice From 8 785 NOK
    Book now
  • Two people looking out over a fjord towards a fishing village in Lofoten.
    6+ Days ・ April - September

    Lofoten Summer Adventure

    Svolvær, Reine and the midnight sunEmbark on a summer adventure to the stunning Lofoten Islands and experience the midnight sun. Journey by bus from Svolvær to Reine and spend three nights in an authentic fishermen’s cabin. / Authentic ScandinaviaPrice From 6 835 NOK
    Book now
See all holiday packages

Take advantage of top offers

See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.

  • Food - Brim Explorer
    Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
  • Performancce Marketing
    CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
  • Blazerbu - Norgesbooking
    NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
  • Scandic Holmenkollen Park Hotel in Oslo, Eastern Norway
    Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
  • The Thief - A lifestyle boutique hotel in Oslo
    StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
  • Standard Room - Svolvær - Thon Hotel
    Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
  • Valevåg Camping
    CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
  • Hotell Refsnes Gods - fasade
    Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
  • Two people sitting in a sofa in Eagle Nest Eco Lodge in Eastern Norway
    50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
  • Family in outdoor pool in winter at Radisson Blu mountain resort & residences in Trysil, Eastern Norway
    Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
  • Hardangerfjord - Authentic Scandinavia
    Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
  • Lit-up tent in snow with colorful northern lights and mountains behind it
    Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
  • Two women viewing scenic Norwegian fjord from a boat, with dramatic mountains reflected in calm water under blue sky.
    Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
  • Eidfjord village - Go fjords
    Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
  • The Hurtigruten ship MS Nordkapp in Geirangerfjord in Fjord Norway
    HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
  • Skiing on finnmarksvidda
    Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
  • Sykkeltur i Hardanger
    Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
  • Happy family taking a selfie in an airport after arriving to Norway
    Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
  • Hop on hop off bus - Stromma
    StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
  • Hikers approaching a small wooden cabin with grass roof in mountainous landscape
    Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
  • Woodward - Arctic Campers
    Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
  • Auto Europe
    Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
  • Buss bilde - NOR-WAY
    NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
  • Shutterstock 4 - Rent-A-Wreck
    Rent-A-Wreck of Scandinavia ASThe smart and affordable car rental alternative.
  • Raumabanen - SJ Nord
    SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
  • A bus driving along the coast in Norway, Vy express route vy146
    Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
  • Vy Train travelling on a scenic railway line between Bergen and Hønefoss, Norway
    Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
  • Malangen resort - My nordic travel
    My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
  • Campanyon - Arctic Dome Smiberget
    CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
  • Airplane
    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.
  • Kviknes Hotel on the shores of the Sognefjord, surrounded by mountains.
    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.
  • A woman hiking in the summer mountains by the fjord.
    CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.