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Honningsvåg, Finnmark
Natural Phenomenon
Midnight Sun at North Cape
The midnight sun on the cliff at North Cape (Nordkapp), from May 14 to July 29: what the night is like at the seaside viewpoint and what the weather is usually like.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Midnight Sun at North Cape in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Discover
About Midnight Sun at North Cape
North Cape (Nordkapp), on the island of Magerøya, has the longest midnight sun period on mainland Norway: it typically runs from May 14 to July 29. The viewpoint sits atop a 307-meter cliff above the sea, facing north with no mountain in front, and is one of the most popular spots to see the sun pass midnight above the horizon.
Around midnight the sun stays low above the Barents Sea and then rises again without setting. Visitors usually gather around the metal globe, the cape’s symbol, waiting for that moment. The adjacent Nordkapphallen pavilion has exhibits, a cinema and a chapel.
The weather makes a big difference. The meeting of cold and warm currents at sea often creates fog, and the cape can be cloudy one night and clear the next. Travelers with flexible time often book more than one night in the area to increase their chances.
Honningsvåg, about 35 km away, is the service town, with lodging, restaurants and the port where cruise ships and Hurtigruten stop. Road E69 ends at the cape, and in summer there are buses from town. Reindeer graze on the plateau along the road.
Even in July the wind is strong and temperatures on the cliff are usually low. A windproof jacket, hat and gloves make a difference for a whole night outdoors.
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Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
The months when it usually happens. It depends on the weather and on nature: it is not guaranteed.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours at the cape, arriving before midnight to see the low sun.
Season
Season from May 14 to July 29, around midnight, when the sun is at its lowest point above the sea.
How to get there
From Honningsvåg, about 35 km via E69, by car, taxi or bus in summer. Ship passengers usually take organized excursions that depart from the port.
Tip
Check the forecast before you go: fog is common. Bring winter clothing even in summer. Pavilion entry is charged separately: check the current price list.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Midnight Sun at North Cape
When can you see the midnight sun at North Cape?
From May 14 to July 29 the sun is typically above the horizon all night. The lowest point occurs near midnight.
Does fog spoil the midnight sun at North Cape?
It can: the meeting of currents at sea often forms fog. Spending more than one night in the area increases the chance of clear skies.
How to get from Honningsvåg to North Cape?
It’s about 35 km via E69, by car, taxi or bus in summer. Check schedules before you go.
Is it cold at North Cape in summer?
Yes. It’s very windy and temperatures are usually low even in July. Bring a windproof jacket, hat and gloves.
Other places
Midnight sun
Norway
Honningsvåg, Norway
Nordkapp
Norway
Lofoten
Sweden
Abisko
Finland
Rovaniemi
Tromsø, Norway
Sol da meia-noite em Tromsø
Beyond the guide
