Drive it Yourself: Harstad to Svolvær (via the Fv83)
Read our road-trip guide to Harstad and Svolvaer.
Located on Norway’s largest island, Hinnøya, Harstad is an administrative centre for the region.
Latitude: 68.4 degrees north
Population: 25,000
Sami Name: Hárstták
Hottest Month: July
Coldest Month: February
Wettest Month: October
Windiest Month: May
Annual Precipitation: 402mm
Harstad Municipality
Here are some things that you must do and try in Harstad
Trondenes Church is a truly unique building. The church is the world’s northernmost medieval church and is located in the historic centre of Trondenes, which during the Viking Age was an important centre.
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Harstad
The museum covers the history of Trondenes and the surrounding areas, and has exhibitions about the Vikings, early Christianity, and the occupation during WWII.
Located close to Trondenes Church are four surviving naval guns from World War II. They were part of a Nazi coastal fortress defence system and were originally intended for battleships. Today only one gun is in working order.
It is possible to visit the guns and fortification area, but only with a guided tour.
An underground adventure pool built directly into the bedrock, with warm caves, slides, and spa facilities.
A 17th-century estate set among rolling fields, now housing a café, gallery, and restaurant.
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are my recommendations!
Join a guided tour to a campsite in the hopes of seeing the northern lights.
I mean, is there any better way to see the fjords? The area around Harstad is gorgeous so this is well recommended!
I mean, is there any better way to see the fjords? The area around Harstad is gorgeous so this is well recommended!
An easy walk that brings panoramic views over Harstad, Hinnøya, and the fjords.
A moderately challenging hike, rewarding you with dramatic vistas of fjords and mountains.
Gentle forest and coastal walks right near town, ideal for families or evening strolls.
How do you know which northern lights tour is right for you? Read my handy guide to choosing a tour!
Follow my road-trip guides for scenic trips around Harstad
The E10 highway stretches across Norway and Sweden, and this part from the Swedish border down to Gullefjord in Vesterålen is probably the most scenic. The Swedish border is located high above the treeline, and within the first 20 minutes of the drive you descend down to sea level, passing spectacular mountains. This place also saw heavy fighting during World War II as the Battle of Narvik raged on the Ofotfjord.
The coastal ferry doesn’t dock in Harstad for long, but there is just enough time to make your way to the main square of Harstad and see the historic buildings. Follow this guide to make the best use of your time.
Watch my YouTube videos featuring Harstad
This is one of the most scenic drives in Norway!
Andøya is a seriously underrated tourist road.
Harstad was established as a modern harbour away from the historic centre of Trondenes. Trondenes has been a place since the Viking Age, and the Trondenes Church is the northernmost medieval church in the world.
The oil industry of Northern Norway has its base in Harstad. Harstad has schooling for all ages and also has the Harstad University College.
Fly: Fly to Harstad/Narvik Airport (EVE), about 45 minutes from Harstad by airport bus or car. Regular flights connect via Oslo and other northern cities.
Drive: well connected via the E10 and main northern highways; a great option if you want to explore Hinnøya and nearby islands.
Train: No train access
Ferry: Harstad is a port of call for the coastal ferry, with both the northbound and southbound calling at Harstad in the morning. There are also express boats from Tromso two times a day; the journey takes just three hours.
On foot – the centre is compact, with most shops and cafés easily walkable.
Local buses – reliable routes throughout the city and neighbouring villages.
Car hire – recommended for reaching trailheads, islands, and scenic viewpoints.
Taxi services – available but pricier; best booked ahead.
Boats & ferries – essential for accessing Grytøy, Bjarkøy, and other nearby islands.
Cafes & Bakeries
Bakerinnen – cosy spot with homemade cakes, excellent breads, and proper coffee.
Umami Café – modern café offering pastries, light meals, and good coffee in a stylish, relaxed space.
Hoelstuen Café – classic Norwegian café atmosphere with hearty lunches and cakes.
Casual Eateries
Bark Spiseri & Bar – a favourite for burgers, salads, fish dishes, and tapas-style plates.
Kaia Bar & Restaurant – waterfront dining with seafood and pub-style meals, popular with locals.
De 4 Roser Café – relaxed sibling of the fine-dining venue, serving soups, sandwiches, and daily specials.
High End & Unique Eats
Umami Harstad – widely regarded as one of Northern Norway’s best restaurants, showcasing creative cuisine with local produce.
All my hotel recommendations are based on research and experience. I don’t recommend somewhere unless I think it is wonderful! The Hidden North focuses on accommodation that provides good quality for price or offer local or unique experiences.
Camping
Harstad Camping is on the road towards Narvik.
Cabins & B&Bs
Chains & Mid-Range
Clarion Hotel Arcticus is one of the nicer hotels in town.
Click here to view rates & book
The Thon Hotel Harstad is in an excellent location and has an Egon Restaurant in the complex.
Click here to view rates & book
Scandic Hotel Harstad
High End & Unique Properties
Sandtorgholm Hotel is a little bit out of Harstad, but this is a historic property and very high end!
Sunrise: 10:52am
Sunset: 1:14pm
Average Temperature: -2.2C (28F)
Sunrise: 8:19am
Sunset: 3:58pm
Average Temperature: -2.3C (28F)
Sunrise: 6:16am
Sunset: 5:50pm
Average Temperature: -0.8C (31F)
Sunrise: 4:59am
Sunset: 8:51pm
Average Temperature: 3C (37F)
Sunrise: 2:23am
Sunset: 11:22pm
Average Temperature: 7.3C (45F)
Midnight sun
Average Temperature: 10.2C (50.4F)
Midnight sun until 22 July
Average Temperature: 13.9C (57F)
Sunrise: 4:03am
Sunset: 9:49pm
Average Temperature: 13C (55F)
Sunrise: 6:07am
Sunset: 7:28pm
Average Temperature: 9.5C (49F)
Sunrise: 7:59am
Sunset: 5:18pm
Average Temperature: 5C (41F)
Sunrise: 9:17am
Sunset: 1:58pm
Average Temperature: 1.7C (35F)
Polar night
Average Temperature: -0.5C (31F)
Read our road-trip guide to Harstad and Svolvaer.
Explore Harstad’s heritage by discovering its preserved wooden houses.
The Andøya Tourist Road is easily one of Norway’s most underrated roads!
Enjoy this drive through scenic Lofoten and Vesterålen