Svolvær is the capital of the Lofoten Islands. Here you will find all the major activities on offer, including the famous excursions to Trollfjord. It is an excellent place to base yourself during your Lofoten stay.
Fun Facts About Svolvær
Latitude: 68.2 degrees north
Population: 4,700
Sami name: Suolvearra
Hottest month: July
Coldest month: February
Wettest month: October
Windiest month: December
Annual precipitation: 273mm
Svolvær Municipality
In this Travel Guide...
Things to See & Do
Here’s an overview of some of the best things to see and do in Svolvær
Things to do in Svolvær
I have a dedicated page for things to do in Svolvær, which you can see by clicking the button below.
This museum is the private collection of one man, William, and is a treasure trove of items from the Second World War.
Hikes, Day Trips & Experiences
Looking to go for a hike or take part in a unique experience? Here are my recommendations!
Please note – the links provided are affiliate links. I only recommend experiences that I have researched and/or tested and focus on providing unique, local things to do!
Trollfjord Cruise
Trollfjord is one of the most unique fjords in Norway. It is only accessible by special tours. You will almost always see sea eagles along the way.
Follow my road-trip guides for scenic trips around Svolvær
The Lofoten Tourist Road (E10)
The Lofoten Tourist Road is arguably the most beautiful tourist road in the country. Stretching from one end of the Lofoten archipelago to the other, this drive takes you past some of the most beautiful fishing villages and mountains in all of Norway. Lofoten is an important historic place for fishing, but it is also a popular spot for hiking, kayking and even swimming. This road-trip guide covers all the diverse landmarks that make up the Lofoten islands.
Here are some things that you must do and try in Svolvær
History of Svolvær
Svolvær isn’t as historic as other towns in Lofoten. It was established in the late 19th century as a modern fishing port for steamships. However, the neighbouring town of Kabelvåg is known from the VIking Age.
Svolvær Today
Fishing is the largest industry in Svolvær. Tourism is also significant as Svolvær is the main hub for tourists visiting the Lofoten Islands.
Travel Information
Getting Here
Fly: Svolvær has a small airport with flights going to Bodo.
Drive: Svolvær is located on the E10, the main highway running through Lofoten.
Train: No train access
Ferry: Svolvær is a port of call on the coastal ferry. Both the northbound and the southbound ferry stop in the evening.
Getting Around
Svolvær’s town centre is walkable, but if you want to explore Lofoten you will need a car.
Shops
Places to Eat
Cafes & Bakeries
Quick Bites
Reasonable Restaurants
High End & Unique Eats
Places to Stay
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
Cabins & B&Bs
There are so many cabins for rent – many of them are outside of the town centre and require a car so you can get around. If you have a car, I recommend staying out of the town centre.
Svinøya Rorbuer is my favourite place that I’ve stayed in Svolvær. The property consists of authentic rorbuer (fishermens cabins) that you can rent. Many of the cabins are heritage listed!