Cidade Turismo
Norway

Before you go

Your trip to Svolvær.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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Svolvær – Nordland Destination Lofoten

How to get there

  • Svolvær lufthavn, Helle (SVJ) Helle · 5 km
  • Svolvær hurtigrutekai 1 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

Confirm before booking. Svolvær airport receives flights from Bodø. The Hurtigruten calls at Svolvær on its northbound and southbound routes. The fast ferry links Svolvær to Bodø, and the E10 connects the town to the mainland via Evenes and Narvik.

How many days

Two days for Svolvær, Henningsvær, Kabelvåg and Lofotr. Another two or three to continue along the E10 westward to Reine and Å.

When to go

From June to August, with long days and the midnight sun until mid‑July. From September to March, the northern lights on clear nights; from February to April, the cod season. Weather changes quickly year‑round.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Helpful to know: Henningsvær, Lofotr and the western islands are spread out along the E10, and buses are infrequent. Rent a car in Svolvær or at the airport.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Svolvær
  1. Morning
    Svolvær

    Walk along the harbour, see the Fisherman's Wife statue and the rorbuer on the islet of Svinøya.

  2. Afternoon
    Kabelvåg

    Visit the Catedral de Lofoten and the Lofotmuseet in Storvågan.

  3. Late afternoon
    Henningsvær

    Head to Henningsvær for the islets, the art galleries and the football pitch.

  4. Evening
    Cod dinner

    Dine in Henningsvær or Svolvær, with fresh or dried cod.

2 days in Svolvær

Day 1

  1. Morning
    Svolvær and Kabelvåg

    Port of Svolvær and Catedral de Lofoten.

  2. Afternoon
    Henningsvær

    Islets, galleries and the trail to the Festvågtind viewpoint.

  3. Late afternoon
    Port of Henningsvær

    Waterside cafés and photos of the cod racks.

  4. Evening
    Svolvær

    Dine in Svolvær; from September to March, watch the sky for the aurora.

Day 2

  1. Morning
    Lofotr

    Follow the E10 to the Viking museum in Borg.

  2. Afternoon
    Haukland

    Continue to Haukland beach and the Mannen trail.

  3. Late afternoon
    Uttakleiv

    Drive through the tunnel to Uttakleiv for late afternoon.

  4. Evening
    West of Lofoten

    Continue to Reine or Hamnøy to sleep overnight.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

What is the Svolværgeita?

The rock peak with two points, like goat's horns, above Svolvær, known among climbers. A trail takes you close to the base, with views over the town.

Is Svolvær a good base for the aurora?

Yes, from September to March, on clear nights, by getting away from the town lights.

Does the Hurtigruten stop in Svolvær?

Yes, on its northbound and southbound routes.

How long to stay in Svolvær?

Two days for the town, Henningsvær and Kabelvåg; afterwards, continue west.

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