7-Day Lofoten Islands Itinerary ✔️ Perfect Lofoten Road Trip for Hikers
Looking for the perfect Lofoten Islands Itinerary for an epic road trip with the perfect mix of hiking and cultural activities? Well my friends, you’ve just found it!
I lived in the Lofoten Islands for an entire year and during that time I explored every inch of this magical place in order to be able to create the absolute best Lofoten road trip for adventurers like you.
7 days is the exact amount of time you need to hit all the major hikes and sights in the Lofoten Islands. But don’t worry if you have more or less time, I’ve included a section on customizing this itinerary to suit your schedule at the end. I actually recommend adding a couple of extra days to your trip to account for the unpredictable weather if you can.
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Contents
Quick Summary: Itinerary Overview
This 7-day Lofoten Islands itinerary starts and ends in Bodø, taking you all the way from the southern tip of Lofoten to the Northern city of Svalvær. Open the map above for a day-by-day overview plus all my must-stop recommendations along the road.
After taking the ferry to Lofoten, nights 1 and 2 will have you stay in the picturesque village of Reine while you explore the dramatic mountains of southern Lofoten. Night 3 will be spent in the historic Nusfjord where you can experience staying in a traditional Norwegian rorbu (red fisherman’s cabin), before moving on to northern Lofoten with a two-night stay in Svolvær (nights 4 and 5). Your final night will be spent in my favourite Lofoten town, Henningsvær before you head back south and take the ferry back to Bodø.
You can expect plenty of hiking (I’ve included all of the absolute best hikes in Lofoten), iconic photo spots, some interesting sightseeing and endless charming villages during this Lofoten road trip, so make sure you’re ready to make the most of the endless daylight hours in the arctic.
NOTE: Some people refer to the two parts of the Lofoten Islands as East and West, however, I prefer to use North and South as it seems more logical to me in the overall scheme of Norway.
| 📅Length: | 7 Days |
| 📏Distance: | 425 km / 265 mi |
| 💲Cost: | ~€1,500 per person |
| 🚗Transport: | Rental Car |
1. Who is this Lofoten Islands Itinerary For?
This Lofoten Islands itinerary is for anyone who enjoys a good balance of incredible hiking, local culture, and sightseeing.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll love this Lofoten road trip! I’ve included 5-7 of Lofoten’s most scenic hikes as well as all the major stops required for you to feel like you’ve seen the Lofoten Islands.
This is an itinerary geared towards hikers but even if you don’t want to hike every day, I’ve included plenty of options so you can easily substitute in other activities.
IMPORTANT: Before we get started, it’s important to note that weather in the Lofoten Islands is rarely the blue skies and sunshine that you see on Instagram. In fact, the first 10 days we spent here were filled with near 0°C temperatures, hurricane-force winds and bucket loads of rain – we couldn’t even go outside and this was the middle of summer!
Because of this, I recommend being flexible in your schedule and adding a few extra days if you can. The itinerary below is perfect if you get good weather for your entire stay, but if you’re not that lucky you may have to decide which hikes are your top priority.
I’ve added my hotel recommendations for all price points in dot points throughout the itinerary but scroll down to section #6 on where to stay for my full review and photos of each spot.
2. Getting to the Lofoten Islands
I have an entire article on all the different ways to get to the Lofoten Islands but since this is just a 7-day itinerary, I’ve given you a quick overview of the most realistic options below.
Fly to Bodø & Ferry to Moskenes, Lofoten
This is the option that I have based this itinerary around as flying to Bodø (BOO) is the most cost-effective way to complete the trip without losing too much time in transit. You also have more rental car options in Bodø than you do on the Lofoten Islands themselves.
There are direct flights from Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and Tromsø to Bodø, so depending on where you arrive in Norway you can get here in just a few hours. Once you’ve arrived in Bodø, the ferry from here to Moskenes takes 3.5 hours and is incredibly scenic!
Fly directly to Lofoten.
If you don’t want to waste time on the ferry or simply want to fly directly to Lofoten, there are two Lofoten airports located in Leknes (LKN) and Svolvær (SVJ). Both airports are serviced from Bodø by Wideroe Airlines and the flight time for each is around 30 mins.
NOTE: You may see “direct” flights from Oslo on Skyscanner however these flights also stop in Bodø to let people on and off.
Both have car rentals available but the number of cars is limited so it’s important to book as far ahead as you possibly can (even 1+ years ahead). The flights can also be quite pricey which is another reason I didn’t base the itinerary around this. However, if you choose to fly directly to Lofoten, you can still follow the itinerary as planned, you may just want to switch the order of the days (see section #4 on customizing the itinerary).
Fly to Narvik
Lastly, Narvik (Harstad Airport EVE) is another option if you find cheaper flights here than Bodø. Driving from Harstad Airport to Svolvaer (north of Lofoten) takes around 3.5 hours so it is perfectly reasonable as well.
This could also be a good option if you want to do a one-way trip with less backtracking. If that’s the case, I recommend flying into Bodø, taking the ferry, following my itinerary North and continuing onto Narvik at the end. Just take into consideration that one-way road trips will have an additional fee when you rent the car as you will be dropping it off in a different location.
3. Lofoten Islands 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Ferry from Bodø to Lofoten, Exploring Å & Hiking Reinebringen
Driving Time: 25 mins
Distance: 14.5 km / 9 mi
Stay in: Reine
Ready to start your Lofoten Islands road trip off with a bang? I hope so because today is going to be fun!
Start by enjoying an incredibly scenic 3.5-hour ferry from Bodø to Moskenes, Lofoten. I can still remember the uncontrolled excitement I had when I saw the picture-perfect mountains of Lofoten for the first time and this ferry trip gives you an incredible panorama so have your camera ready!
Once you’ve arrived, hit the ground running and drive for 5 minutes, straight to the village of Å (pronounced ‘au’) at the southernmost point of the Lofoten Islands. This is one of the most traditional fishing villages in Lofoten. Made up nearly entirely of rorbuer (red fisherman’s cabins), Å is essentially like an open-air museum but there are plenty of actual museums and photo spots to explore here. You can spend 1-4 hours here depending on how many places you want to see, check out my recommendations below or follow my itinerary map.
Afterwards, head 15 minutes north to the village of Reine. This is where you will be spending the next two nights so check into your hotel and put on your hiking boots, it’s time for your first hike!
I mentioned we are going to kick this road trip off with a bang, from town, you can walk to the Reinebringen trailhead and start climbing the (nearly) 1000 Sherpa steps to the top. The hike will take around 2 hours but you could spend endless time enjoying the view at the top. You can thank me later, there’s a reason this stunning hike is the most famous hike in the Lofoten Islands!
Activities:
- Norwegian Fishing Village Museum, Å
- Lofoten Tørrfisk Museum (Stockfish Museum), Å
- Gammelgården Bakery, Å
- Reinebringen Hike, Reine
Where to stay
$$$ Luxury: Rostad Retro Rorbuer
$$ Mid Range: Sakrisøy Gjestegård
$ Budget: Catogården
Day 2 – Boat trip to a Secluded Beach OR Kayaking in Reinefjorden
Driving Time: None
Distance: None
Stay in: Reine
You have a choice of activities for day 2, hiking or kayaking. Both are equally as exciting and if you can’t choose, there is an option to do both with this private kayak tour to Bunes Beach.
OPTION 1 – Boat Trip to a secluded beach
From the Reine port, jump on a local Reinefjord ferry to either Vindsad or Kjekfjorden. From each port you will need to hike over a pass to reach the hidden beach so choose whether you prefer to visit Bunes Beach or Horseid Beach ahead of time (both are possibly the most beautiful beaches in all of Lofoten).
Bunes Beach is the more popular option as it is an easy 1-hour hike (2.8km / 1.7 mi and 80m / 262ft elevation gain) from the Vindsad pier. If you prefer even more solitude, leave early and go to Horseid Beach instead. For Horseid you will need to get off the boat in Kjekfjorden and hike for 2 hours to the beach (2.5km /1.6 mi, 200m / 656ft elevation gain). Whichever beach you choose, make sure to check the return ferry times as it is possible to get stuck if you miss the last one!
Tickets can be bought online at Reis Nordland (click buy ticket for express boat) and it costs 106 NOK / 9 EUR to Vindsad (Bunes Beach) or 116 NOK / 10 EUR to Kjekfjorde (Horseid Beach) return.
TOP TIP: The ferry fills up quickly in summer as it is just a small boat, so make sure to arrive at least 20 mins ahead of time, even if you’ve pre-booked tickets. Even if there is a line, you must let the staff know that you have pre-bought tickets so they can count you into the capacity. Onsite tickets go on sale 1 hour before departure and all passengers must be present at the ticket boot to purchase.
OPTION 2 – Kayaking in Reinefjord
If your legs are already sore from hiking Reinebringen yesterday, let them rest and work your arms instead with a kayak trip through Reinefjorden. You cannot rent kayaks in Norway unless you have a local kayak license so booking a tour is a great way around this. Not only will you have all the gear provided but you’ll also get a local guide to take you to all the best spots.
The kayak tour I recommend above is 3 hours so you’ll also have plenty of time to enjoy the village of Reine and explore everything it has to offer. Alternatively, if you’re visiting during the summer you might want to experience the magical midnight sun on a midnight kayak tour (also 3 hours).
Activities:
- Ferry or Kayak to Bunes or Horseid Beach
- Kayak Tour of Reinefjord or Midnight Sun Kayak Tour
- Explore Reine
- Visit Art Gallery Harr at the Reine Cultural Center
Day 3 – Hike to Ryten & Kvalvika Beach and Stay in a Rorbu at Nusfjord
Driving Time: 1 hour
Distance: 50 km / 31 mi
Stay in: Nusfjord
Pack up your things and hit the road, today we’re hiking my favourite mountain in Lofoten, Ryten! Drive 35 minutes north to the Innersand parking (100 NOK) where you will find the Ryten trailhead.
Follow the trail on the far side of the parking area and pretty soon you will be rewarded with stunning views over Kvalvika beach. I recommend following this route that takes you first to Kvalvika and then up a steep climb to Ryten before bringing you back to the parking.
Kvalvika is a white sand beach that is another wildly beautiful place to visit and at the top of Ryten, you will find the famous “mini Trolltunga” rock that seems to stick out over a massive vertical drop. Don’t worry, there is another little cliff directly below you but you should still take a lot of caution up here.
TOP TIP: See if you can find the hidden cabin on the beach! A few years ago a couple of surfers decided to spend the winter living on this beach and they made a cabin entirely of trash that washed up on shore. Feel free to have a look inside.
The whole loop will take 4-5 hours and can be quite busy so arrive early to avoid the crowds. You can hike these two separately (the trailhead for Kvalvika is just around the corner at Trosfjord). However, there is only space for 3-4 cars at the Kvalvika trailhead so it’s not that reliable which is why I recommend joining them in a loop.
After you’ve finished your hike, it’s time to move to the historic Nusfjord (30 min drive). Nusfjord is one of the oldest fishing villages in Norway and has been turned into a living museum. I recommend spending the night in one of their traditional Rorbuer for the full experience. Entrance to the Nusfjord Museum is included in your stay so try to arrive before they close at 5 pm.
Activities:
- Hike Ryten
- Visit Kvalvika Beach
- Explore the historic Nusfjord
- Stay in a traditional rorbu
Where to stay
Nusfjord Retreat – Tonight is your chance to stay in an authentic rorbuer in one of the best-preserved fishing villages in all of Norway. The iconic red rorbuer here stand on stilts looking directly out over the beautiful fjord surroundings. The nights here are undeniably special, plus the resort has lots of great facilities to indulge in during your luxury stay.
Day 4 – Arctic Surfing & Offersøykammen or Viking Museum
Driving Time: 2 hours
Distance: 111 km / 69 mi
Stay in: Svolvaer
I hope you’re not too tired yet because today is my second favourite hike in Lofoten (don’t worry I have options for you if you don’t want to hike today).
Start off the day by driving 25 minutes from Nusfjord to the parking for Offersøykammen. When you arrive, strap on your boots and follow the trail for epic views of green islands, turquoise waters and plenty of mountains. I love the Offersoykammen and I think you will too.
NOTE: There are multiple trailheads for this hike, I recommend the trail which begins on the east side of the Nappstråumtunnelen tunnel. This hike is a little longer than the one from Lofoten Basecamp but the gradient is much more gentle, meaning you only have to deal with the steepness for a short section before the summit.
Hiking Offersoykammen should take 3-4 hours which means you have time in the day for another activity! This is your chance to try surfing in the Arctic, not many people can say they’ve done that!
Drive 30 mins north west to Unstad beach where you will find two surf rental shops, Lofoten Surf Center and Unstad Arctic Surf. Both places offer lessons and rentals with a full winter wetsuit (boots, hat and body). Unstad is a great place for everyone from beginners to experienced surfers and is by far the most popular local hangout.
If surfing isn’t your thing, I recommend visiting the Lofoten Viking Museum. Not only are there plenty of exhibits where you can learn about Viking history, in the summer there is always lots going on here. You may even have the chance to fight in a battle or ride a Viking ship on the lake!
Finally, continue your drive for another hour to the town of Svolvær where you will spend the next two nights.
Activities:
- Hike Offersoykammen
- Surf at Unstad Beach
- Visit the Lofoten Viking Museum
- See Vagan Church
TOP TIP: Alternatively, if you’re looking for another hike to fit in on day 4, I would hike Flakstadtind in the morning before completing Offersoykammen in the afternoon.
Where to stay
$$$ Luxury: Thon Hotel
$$ Mid Range: Lofoten Suiteapartments
$ Budget: Lofoten Villa
Day 5 – Trollfjord Cruise, Hike Floya & Visit Svolvær
Driving Time: None
Distance: None
Stay in: Svolvaer
Today is sure to be yet another highlight of your trip! Trollfjord is a super narrow fjord in Lofoten that can only be accessed by boat. As the near vertical cliff walls are just 100m at their narrowest point and the fjord is only accessible by boat, there is no infrastructure like houses or villages here. This is why Trollfjord is home to such an abundance of wildlife making it an incredibly special place to visit.
There are a few different boat tours you can take to visit the Trollfjord like this electric catamaran cruise or luxury sailboat experience, but for a real thrill, I recommend you take a sea eagle safari on a small RIB boat. Not only are these boats super fun but you can get much closer to the cliffs which allows you to see more wildlife up close and personal.
NOTE: Most of the tours depart from the boat terminal that I marked on the map above in Svolvær, but make sure to check the exact departure location of your chosen tour.
After your tour, it’s time to hike another one of Lofoten’s most famous hikes, Fløya. The trailhead for Fløya is just a 25 min walk north of downtown Svolvær and I recommend walking instead of driving if you can as the carpark here is both expensive and fills up quickly.
Floya starts with another set of Sherpa stairs but don’t worry, they aren’t nearly as bad as the Reinebringen ones! Once you’ve completed the stairs, follow the signs to Djevelporten (Devil’s Gate). This is a smaller version of Norway’s famous Kjeragbolten where a large boulder has wedged itself between two cliffs. You can stand on the boulder for an epic photo, just be super careful as the drop is not small. After you’ve had your paparazzi moment, continue on the trail to summit Floya before returning the same way. The entire trail will take 3-4 hours.
Before the day is out, make sure to leave some time to explore all that Svolvær has to offer as there are countless activities to enjoy here. If you don’t feel like hiking, visit a museum or two to fill the gap!
Activities:
- Trollfjord Cruise
- Hike to Djevelporten & Floya
- Lofotpils Brewery
- Lofoten War Memorial Museum
- Magic Ice Lofoten
Day 6 – Hike Festvågtind and Get Cultured in Henningsvær
Driving Time: 35 mins
Distance: 25 km / 16 mi
Stay in: Henningsvær
It’s nearly the end of your trip so it’s time to start heading back south. But don’t worry, it’s just a short 35-minute drive to Henningsvær today, my favourite village in Lofoten! On the way, you’ll pass Rørvikstranda beach which is located right at the turn off the E10. This beach has some of the bluest water in all of Lofoten but it is tidal. So if you happen to come past at the right time, it’s worth a stop.
Afterwards, you didn’t think I was going to miss out on another incredible Lofoten hike though, did you? About halfway down the drive to Henninsvær you’ll find the parking for Festvagtind. Walk a little further down the road to where it bends and you will see the trail heading straight up a gully.
While the hike may look a little intimidating, Festvagtind is absolutely worth it. When I lived in Norway it was more of a hidden gem but thanks to Instagram it has been getting more and more popular. The hike will take around 2 hours in total.
TOP TIP: When you reach the top, you’ll see the main trail turns left and leads to a beautiful viewpoint over Svolvær. If you turn right here you’ll find another trail that leads to a secret rock that sticks out over an epic view. This is most likely what you will have seen on Instagram lately however the trail can be a little sketchy as it involves some exposed scrambling.
After you’ve tired yourself out, head down to Henningsvær and settle into your accommodation for the night. There’s plenty to do in this adorable town as it’s considered the cultural heart of Lofoten. Check out some art galleries, shop for souvenirs in the boutique stores or party the night away at the many bars.
Activities:
- Rørvikstranda Beach
- Hike Festvagtind
- Kaviar Factory Art Gallery
- Gallery Lofoten
- Indulge in the shops, bars and restaurants of Henningsvær
Where to stay
$$$ Luxury: Villa Bryggekanten
$$ Mid Range: Henningsvær Guesthouse
$ Budget: Trevarefabrikken
Day 7 – See Lofoten’s Iconic Beaches & Hike Mannen
Driving Time: 2.5 hours
Distance: 128 km / 80 mi
Stay in: Departure Day
Your final day! While there is a lot of driving today, don’t cry because I’ve designed this itinerary so your final day isn’t just a travel day but is just as incredible as the rest of your trip.
Start your day with a 1 hour 20 min drive from Henningsvær to Uttakleiv Beach where you can stretch your legs and enjoy a paradisic white sand beach.
TOP TIP: This is a good place for a polar dip if you partied a little too hard last night!
Once you’ve recovered, drive back through the tunnel and park at Haukland Beach. On foot, follow the road that goes up to lookers right of the tunnel until you come across a lake. This is the trailhead for Mannen, an easy 1.5-hour hike with an unreal viewpoint over Lofoten’s famous beaches. On your way down, make sure to have a quick walk down Haukland Beach itself, another spot to snap some pictures of your last day in Lofoten.
Return to the E10 and continue south for another 40 minutes until you reach Skagsanden Beach. This is another super popular surf beach with rentals available from Lofoten Beach Camp. If you have time and didn’t get enough at Unstad Beach on day 4, this is your second chance!
Alternatively, Flakstadtind stands just across the road (if you didn’t already hike this on day 4). This steep hike takes 1-2 hours but has a great payoff with unbeatable 350-degree views featuring the unique two-tone colours of Flakstadpollen.
Finally, drive the remaining 40 mins to Moskenes and catch the ferry back over to Bodø!
Activities:
- Uttakleiv Beach
- Hike Mannen
- Haukland Beach
- Surf at Skagsanden Beach
- Hike Flakstadtind
- Ferry to Bodø
Bonus – Vaeroy
If you have an extra day or two in your itinerary, I highly recommend taking the 1.5-hour ferry from Moskenes to Vaeroy. You can explore for a few hours then take the ferry directly to Bodø from here, or stay overnight if you choose!
To be honest there isn’t a whole lot to do on Væroy but I loved the desolate landscape and lack of tourists here. It was a refreshing break after the craziness of the main Lofoten Islands. While you’re here, the two things I highly recommend you do is hike to Håen and see the Puffins!
The Håen hike is another one you may have seen on Instagram as it overlooks a dramatic peninsula sticking out into the ocean. The hike takes 1.5 – 2 hours and is fairly straight forward as you follow an old road for most of the trail.
Puffins, on the other hand, are not as straight forward. Generally, they nest on land from May to August so this is really the only time you have to see them. If you happen to be visiting during this time, the best way to find them is to take a boat tour to see the bird cliffs or hike to Måstad.
Activities:
- Hike to Håen
- See Puffins from May to August
- Hike to the abandoned village of Måstad
- Take a boat trip to the bird cliffs
Where to stay
$$$ Luxury: Lofoten Fyr
$$ Mid Range: Bensvik Brygge
$ Budget: Værøy Old Airport
4. How to Customize Your Itinerary
If my Lofoten Islands road trip itinerary doesn’t 100% suit you, don’t worry, I can help with that too. Below are a few suggestions on how to customize this itinerary to suit your needs and interests.
If you have less than 7 days – Fly in and out of Leknes
For those of you who don’t have the full 7 days, it might be worth flying in and out of Leknes (central Lofoten) and using this as your base. You could do a couple of days exploring southern Lofoten, then a couple more days exploring Northern Lofoten.
This will require a bit more backtracking each day, but overall it won’t take up too much time. Flying into Lofoten will save you 7 hours of ferry rides plus you won’t lose time moving accommodation every other day, nor driving the whole north to south in one day to get back to your starting point.
You probably won’t be able to cram all the activities listed in my itinerary into less than 7 days, so go through each one and prioritize what you want to see and do depending on your time restraints.
If you have more than 7 days – Add days in Nusfjord, Henningsvaer or Svolvaer
I’ve already given you a bonus day (or two if you stay overnight) in Vaeroy and I highly recommend visiting if you have the time. But for you lucky people who have even more time, I recommend adding a day in either Nusfjord or Reine, and/or Henningsvaer or Svolvaer.
The 7-day Lofoten Islands itinerary above is designed to be as efficient as possible with minimal backtracking each day, however, if you have more time to explore each destination, this is less of an issue.
I recommend going through the extra activities listed on my road trip map itinerary and figuring out which destination you want to spend more time in (north, middle or south).
I say middle because we’ve included a night in Nusjord already, so if the extra hikes or activities that interest you are around there, it makes sense to add a second night in Nusfjord. Alternatively, if they are in the North, choose Henningsvaer or Svolvaer based on which town sounds more like your vibe.
If the activities listed here are still not enough, check out my posts on the best hikes in Lofoten or my comprehensive list of things to do.
Flying out of Narvik
If you don’t like backtracking and don’t mind dropping your rental car off at a different location, I recommend going from Bodo to Narvik.
It’s best to fly into Bodo and out of Narvik for a few reasons. Firstly, the ferry ride is much more scenic going towards the dramatic mountains of Lofoten, offering an epic start to an amazing road trip. Secondly, the ferry can be cancelled in bad weather so it’s safer not to rely on it when you are trying to make a flight on time.
TOP TIP: To adapt the itinerary for this, swap days 5 & 6 (so you do Henningsvaer before Svolvaer). Next, pick which activities from day 7 that you want to keep and add them in on days 4 or 5. On day 7, you will need to drive 3.5 hours north to Narvik.
Depending on what time your flight is you may want to shuffle around some of the Svolvaer activities from day 6 to do this morning, alternatively, here are a few places to stop on your way north.
- Austnesfjorden – Roadside viewpoint with a short boardwalk giving amazing views of the fjord and mountains
- Norwegian Coastal Express Museum – Small detour for an interesting museum
- Whale watching in Vesterålen
- Ride the gondola in Narvik
Alternative activities & hikes
Throughout my Lofoten road trip itinerary, I have tried to give plenty of alternatives for those of you who don’t want to hike every day, but if you still want more ideas to customize your trip, this section is for you.
I’ve already included a bunch of optional activities, suggested photo spots and great viewpoints on my accompanying map but I will list some more here to help you out.
- Visit the museums in Kabelvag – Kabelvag is located between Henningsvaer and Svolvaer and is one of the less visited villages in Lofoten. Despite this, it’s home to a handful of boutique shops as well as museums and an aquarium!
- Choose alternative hikes – If there’s one thing that Lofoten will never run out of, it’s incredible hikes. If the popular hikes I’ve listed here are too busy for you, choose something a little more off the beaten path from my list of top Lofoten hikes.
- Take a photography tour – You can either join a guided photography tour of Loften to get tips and tricks for the best photos or drive yourself to all the viewpoints listed on my map.
- Go fishing – There’s a reason that the Lofoten Islands are full of fishing villages, it’s one of the best places to go sea fishing in all of Norway. There are plenty of fishing tours that will take you on traditional boats to catch your dinner but I recommend this one.
- Go on a whale safari in Andenes – While this is quite a drive from Lofoten (over 3 hours from Svolvaer), Andenes is the best place to see whales in all of Norway. Here you can take boat trips practically all year round to see whales in abundance as there is a rotating roster of migratory whales through this area. If you’re brave enough, they even offer tours to swim with killer whales!
5. Best Way to Roadtrip the Lofoten Islands
Throughout this article, you may have noticed that I strongly suggest renting a car or camper for your Lofoten Islands itinerary. This is because there is not much public transport in Lofoten, and you will waste a lot of time relying on it if you don’t have access to a vehicle.
That being said, you still have options!
Renting a Car
You can easily rent cars from Bodo, Leknes or Svolvaer, however, you will find the most options and best prices in Bodo as it is the biggest city in this area.
Renting a car in Lofoten can be as cheap as €45 per day (€312 for 7 full days) and there are no toll roads in this area. You will need to account for the ferry from Bodo to Lofoten (525.60 NOK / €45 each way) and the expensive fuel prices here (up to €2.30 per litre).
TOP TIP: You can get discounts on ferries, road tolls and cheap charging if you rent an electric car in Norway as the country has lots of government subsidies to encourage the use of electric vehicles.
So for this 7-day road trip, the approximate cost of driving is:
- Rental Car: €312
- Ferries: €90
- Fuel: 42.5 x €2 = €85 (425 km, 10L/100KM)
TOTAL: €312 + €90+ €85 = €487
€69.57 per day (€487 / 7 days)
Renting a Campervan
Personally, I think renting a campervan is the best way to road trip the Lofoten Islands. Norway has amazing right-to-roam laws which allow you to camp for free nearly anywhere, giving you tons of freedom.
That being said, van life in Lofoten has gotten out of control in the last few years so they have had to bring in more and more restrictions about where you can and cannot sleep. Here are some basic laws you must follow when camping in Lofoten:
- You cannot park on any land that is not a designated road or parking area (basically don’t leave the tarmac)
- Do not sleep where there are no camping signs (many of the car parks at popular Lofoten beaches)
- You need to be at least 150 m from any inhabited dwellings
- Don’t stay more than 2 nights in one place
- Don’t park on the site of the road where there is no designated parking places
The other thing to consider is that most of Lofoten’s roads are narrow and windy with a million cars, trucks and campers trying to squeeze past each other during the summer.
I’m not saying this to put you off renting a camper in Lofoten, but I do recommend renting a smaller van rather than a huge R.V. Another benefit to small campervans is that any vehicles up to 6m in length (like this van with a shower) are still charged as a car on Norway ferries.
It’s also a good idea to stay at campsites rather than waste your time trying to find a spot at a legal and free parking area. Generally, campgrounds cost around €30 per night and you get access to facilities such as washrooms, cooking rooms, showers, laundry, warming huts and sometimes even saunas (subject to specific campsites – check out Skarungen, it’s amazing!). There are plenty to choose from in Lofoten and many of them have scenic and secluded locations making for a beautifully peaceful night.
You can rent a campervan for around €185 per night (based on 7 days) which is cheaper than paying for a regular rental car and mid-range hotels.
6. Where to stay during this Lofoten Island Itinerary
I’ve included all my top hotel recommendations throughout the itinerary but to make it even easier for you, I’ve included a handy booking guide here.
Below I’ve given you choices for all budgets in each of the different locations with instructions on how many nights to book if you’re following my itinerary. The locations are listed in order from your first to last night.
TOP TIP: When choosing your accommodation, I recommend you book hotels with parking. This is because almost all overnight parking in Lofoten’s villages is paid parking which can add up quite quickly (it’s expensive).
Reine – 2 Nights (Day 1 & 2)
Luxury
Rostad Retro Rorbuer
These charming cabins combine a retro aesthetic with contemporary amenities, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Designed with families in mind, the property features a fun-filled children’s play area and convenient babysitting services, offering the perfect setting for both relaxation and exploration.
Mid Range
Sakrisøy Gjestegård
Step into the charm of Sakrisøy Gjestegård, a beautifully preserved 1880s manor offering stunning sea view rooms, modern amenities, and exceptional affordability. This is where timeless elegance meets unbeatable value.
Budget
Catogården
For adventure seekers heading to Lofoten, this budget-friendly spot in Reine is an excellent choice. Enjoy weekly yoga sessions, embark on a kayak tour, or unwind in the sauna after a day of hiking—the options are all yours!
Cabin
Eliassen Rorbuer
These are the iconic rorbuer that has taken Instagram by storm. Located on Hamnøy Island just a couple of mins from Reine, these charmingly restored fishermen’s cottages feature cozy living spaces, fully equipped kitchens, and breathtaking views of the majestic fjord.
Nusfjord – 1 Night (Day 3)
The renowned Nusfjord Arctic Resort is unmatched when it comes to having an authentic rorbuer stay. Set within an open-air museum, Nusfjord is a village almost entirely composed of traditional rorbuer. By day, you can observe blacksmiths at work, watch intricate wood carvings take shape, and indulge in delightful treats from a classic bakery.
When night falls and the tourists leave, you’ll be immersed in a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by a stunning fjord framed by dramatic, towering peaks.
Svolvaer – 2 Nights (Days 4 & 5)
Luxury
Thon Hotel
This amazing 5-star hotel stands out as one of the most luxurious accommodations in the entire Lofoten Islands. Offering an array of top-tier amenities, including a seaside sauna with breathtaking views, it promises an unforgettable stay.
Mid Range
Lofoten Suiteapartments
For those seeking extra space, the luxurious Lofoten Suiteapartments are an excellent choice. Each apartment features a sleek, modern kitchen, comfortable seating areas, and stunning panoramic views, providing a peaceful retreat to unwind each evening.
Budget
Lofoten Villa
This fantastic guesthouse offers exceptional value for money. Enjoy mingling in the inviting garden or retreat to the comfort of your private room, all while having access to everything you need for a relaxing stay.
Cabin
Svinøya Rorbuer
There’s a great selection of rorbuer here, each featuring a charming rustic style. If you want to really treat yourself, be sure to choose one with a private sauna for that ultimate VIP experience.
Henningsvaer – 2 Nights (Day 6)
Luxury
Villa Bryggekanten
Tucked away in the heart of Henningsvær, Henningsvær Bryggehotel provides a cozy waterfront escape. Take in breathtaking mountain and sea views, enjoy modern comforts, and even rent a kayak right outside your door.
Mid Range
Henningsvær Guesthouse
From the friendly staff to the easy parking, every little touch here makes your stay unforgettable. Kick off your day with a tasty breakfast, then grab a bike or lace up your hiking boots to explore the great outdoors.
Budget
Trevarefabrikken
One of the coolest spots to stay in Lofoten, Trevarefabrikken is set in a repurposed factory, complete with an awesome outdoor sauna. Downstairs, you’ll find a lively cafe/bar that’s always buzzing with activities, from yoga sessions to local festivals.
Cabin
Henningsvaer Rorbuer
These charming cottages provide a peaceful retreat, featuring kitchenettes, private patios, cozy fireplaces, and stunning sea views. For the ultimate relaxation, unwind in the sauna or enjoy a soak in the one-of-a-kind quayside wood-fired hot tub—what more could you ask for?
7. Cost of a Lofoten Road Trip
Of course, the price of this Lofoten Island itinerary will vary depending on which accommodation you choose, how often you eat out and which paid activities you want to do, however, to help you estimate the cost of your trip, I’ve laid everything out below.
This cost estimate is based on two mid-range travellers sharing travel and accommodation costs. I’ve also only included the main paid activities that I’ve recommended throughout this road trip itinerary such as the boat trip to Bunes Beach, surf lessons, Trollfjord cruise etc so the activities cost could also be more or less than listed below.
- Accommodation: 1000
- Activities: €220 x 2 people
- Food: €500 x 2 people
- Rental Car Rental: €312
- Ferries: €90
- Fuel: €85
- Parking: €40
= €212 per person per day
Frequently Asked Questions about a Lofoten Road Trip
How many days are enough for the Lofoten Islands?
3 days is enough to see the basics of the Lofoten Islands however 7 days is the perfect length if you want to see everything.
How much does a Lofoten road trip cost?
The 7-day itinerary above costs around €212 per person per day based on two mid-range travellers. This price includes all your car rental, fuel, ferry fees, activities and accommodation for 7 days.
What is the best time to visit the Lofoten Islands?
The best time to visit the Lofoten Islands is July and August because you have the best chance of good weather. Check out the details about every season in Lofoten here.
Do you need a 4-wheel drive in Lofoten?
No, you don’t need 4-wheel drive in Lofoten however it is recommended if you are visiting in winter.
Well I hope you’ve got your whole trip planned and booked as everything in Lofoten (hotels, rental cars and activities) can book out months in advance, especially during the summer.
I’ve tried to make this Lofoten Islands itinerary as easy as possible for you so you can go through and book everything you’ll need for each day. But if you have any more questions, leave me a comment below or check out all my other Lofoten travel guides.
I hope you love this Lofoten road trip as much as I loved my time living there, this really is such a magical place.
Happy travels,
Kate
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Helpful Resources
Hotels.com - Another great place to find a hotel with specific requirements for your trip.
Agoda - Best for booking hotels in Asia. Has options worldwide however in Asia it seems to have the most options of all the booking sites.
Hostelworld - Perfect for backpackers, Hostelworld is my go-to to find dorm rooms and cheap, social accommodation options.
Rental Cars - Another option to compare rental car companies and providers worldwide.
Sixt - Previously “Thrifty” car rentals.
Europcar - Offers car and van hire around the world.
AutoEurope - Best place to find RV’s to rent for your trip.
Paul Camper - Rent campervans directly from their owners at reduced prices.
Viator - Preferred by US providers so sometimes has a bigger range of activities in select locations.
Klook - Most popular in Asia, you will find a bigger range of attractions and tours in the region of Asia on Klook.
Civitatis - Specializing in European Cities. Although it provides tours worldwide, always check here for additional options if visiting Europe.
HeadOut - Best place to find discounted attraction tickets.
Tiqets - Offers a lot of combo tickets. Make sure to visit if you are planning on visiting a few iconic attractions within a city.
Tripaneer - Where to go if you want to book retreats of any kind (yoga, cycling, outdoors etc).
Guru Walks - Book your spot on a free walking tour.
G Adventure - Lets you compare multi day tours around the world to pick the right itinerary for you.
Cruise Critic - Check out the different cruise options for long or short trips world wide.
Cruise Direct - Another option for comparing and booking cruises for your trip.
Helly Hanson - Norwegian based clothing brand which produces durable outdoor clothing, particularly ski gear.
The North Face - High quality clothing for all your outdoor adventure needs.
Decathlon - Has a great range of cheap equipment and clothing for a huge range of sports and outdoor activities.
Sport Chek - Everything you need for general sports and outdoor adventures under one roof (or website).
Kiwi - Best platform for comparing different routes and dates.
Flixbus - Cheapest bus service mostly serving Europe but available in a few other destinations.
Greyhound - US long distance bus transport service.
Busbud - Compare and find all the bus times and providers for your chosen route.
Trainline - Find train times and tickets for long distance travel around the world.
Save a train - Another place to get train tickets and compare services for your destination.
Welcome Pickups - Pre book your airport transfer to your hotel.
Get Transfer - Another option to find airport transfers within your destination city.
Kiwi Taxi - Find and pre-book a taxi service in your location (including airport transfers).
SafetyWing - Best for digital nomads, offers ongoing monthly travel insurance plans.
Bonzah - Rental car insurance. Cheaper plans than those offered by the rental car companies themselves.
