The Hidden North
North European travel guide
self-guided walks
Harstad
Explore the best of Harstad with this self-guided walking tour.
What you get
Historic overview of Harstad (with photos of what the city used to look like)
Printable map with the route and major landmarks highlighted
Link to a Google Map that can be loaded into your phone for easier navigation
Clear directions with English & Norwegian names of places, addresses, and step-by-step guides
Photos of each point of interest
This guide is 9 pages and comes in a PDF format.
Historic Port Town
Even though Harstad was only established 150 years ago as a port city for steamships, the area has been inhabited for thousands of years and the iconic Trondenes Church is the northernmost medieval church in the world. Harstad has some charming buildings from its early years but a wander around the town centre also provides lovely views out to the sea and surrounding mountains.
Trip Highlights
- See Harstad's oldest buildings
- Learn about the fascinating history of how Harstad was established
- Explore Harstad's city centre
Distance
1.2km (0.7 miles) not including the walk to Trondenes Church.
Activity Level
Level 1 – flat path, no stairs, paved. The walk up Aksla (optional) is graded at Level 2.
Start Location
Coastal Ferry Terminal
End Location
Harstadhamn harbour area
Itinerary
This is a summarised itinerary. More stops are included in the walk.
Harstadsjoen
Harstadsjøen is the name for the old settlement of Harstad.
Rikard Kaarbø’s plass
Rikard Kaarbø is the man who is considered to be the founder of Harstad. He was the initiator and contributor to a number of businesses in Harstad that contibuted to Harstad getting city status in 1904.
Strandgata
This street is fascinating because it really tells Harstad’s history. People came from all over Norway to try and establish a successful business in Harstad after the boom in shipping and trade.
Example of what the guide looks like.