Tromsø is known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" due to its location above the Arctic Circle. Start the trip by exploring the Arctic Cathedral, a stunning triangular-shaped church with striking stained glass windows. Then, hike up to Mount Storsteinen using the Fjellheisen Cable Car for breathtaking views of Tromsø and the surrounding islands.
Senja is Norway's second-largest island and is known for its raw, natural beauty. Start the day by hiking the Segla Trail for stunning views from the top of Segla Mountain. Afterward, take a scenic drive through the island's coastal fjords to the charming fishing village of Mefjordvær.
The picturesque village of Reine is often considered one of the most beautiful in Norway, with its red and white fisherman's huts set against towering mountainsides. From there, head to the village of Å, home to the Lofoten Stockfish Museum, where you can learn about the area's unique fishing history and taste some of their delicious stockfish.
In the morning, explore the tiny fishing village of Nusfjord, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, head to Henningsvær, home to the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum, where you can learn about the history of fishing in Lofoten and see how traditional fishermen's homes were built.
The small town of Svolvær is a lively hub for outdoor adventure, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Take a boat tour to the dramatic Trollfjord, where you can see beautiful waterfalls and local wildlife like eagles and seals.
Flakstadøya is an island in south Lofoten famous for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Spend the day sunbathing, swimming or surfing at the beautiful beaches of Flakstadøya, such as the stunning sandy expanse of Ramberg Beach.
End the trip with a visit to Haukland Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and the perfect spot to take pictures with the stunning landscape of Lofoten Island. Then, drive back to Tromsø where you’ll fly back home.
For this trip, it is recommended to rent a car. This will allow you to get around each location and take in the breathtaking scenery that Norway has to offer. Total driving distance for the trip is approximately 427 miles, and petrol will cost around NOK 1260/$150 for the car. You can book your car in advance for NOK 3200/ $380 for seven days. Be aware that during the winter months, it is important to have a car with winter tires, as the roads can be icy.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Whale Safari Museum in Andenes or kayaking in the Nusfjord area. If you have less time, you can skip Senja Island and spend more time in Lofoten, but we highly recommend experiencing both regions for a full Arctic adventure.
The nearest airport to Tromsø is Tromsø Airport (TOS), located approximately 3.7 miles from Tromsø city center. It is a hub for domestic flights with connections to Oslo and other major Norwegian cities. The nearest airport to Lofoten is Leknes Airport (LKN), located in the town of Leknes. The airport is well-served by domestic airlines with direct flights to Oslo, Bodø, and Tromsø. It is approximately a 30 to 40-minute drive to the town of Reine from Leknes Airport, depending on traffic.