Once in Northern Norway, revel in activities that are unimaginable elsewhere at this time of year, from kayaking under a sun that never dips below the horizon to whale watching in the luminous twilight. The midnight sun not only highlights the unique charm of Tromsø and Lofoten but also elevates these destinations as prime locations for unforgettable summer adventures.
Throughout this article, we will guide you through the top activities to enjoy under the midnight sun, from the tranquil waters of Sommarøy to the awe-inspiring fjords accessible via the Arctic Route. Discover the best locations in the land of the midnight sun, including essential travel tips such as using the Arctic Route summer bus routes for seamless exploration between Tromsø and Lofoten, and within Lofoten itself, from Å to Svolvær.
This primer will equip you with everything you need to know about what to do in Tromsø during summertime, as well as the must-experience tours in Lofoten. Prepare to immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Norway‘s summer, enhanced by the perpetual twilight of the midnight sun.
The phenomenon of the Midnight Sun
What is the Midnight Sun?
The Midnight Sun, often referred to as Polar Day, occurs due to the Earth’s tilt and rotation. During summer months (mid-May to mid-July), the Northern Hemisphere tilts closer to the sun, particularly above the Arctic Circle, resulting in continuous daylight. This unique phenomenon allows you to experience extended days, where the sun hovers at the horizon, creating a perpetual twilight.
Where and when to experience it
You can witness the Midnight Sun in several locations within the Arctic Circle. Notably, in Svalbard, the sun remains visible from April 20 to August 22, offering the longest duration. In Tromsø, the sun does not set from May 20 to July 22. Each location within the Arctic Circle, including Bodø, Harstad, and the Lofoten Islands, offers a distinct period to enjoy this natural spectacle, generally from late May to late July.
Locations in Northern Norway with the best tours and activities
Tromsø
Experience the surreal midnight sun in Tromsø, where from May 20 to July 22, the sun never sets, bathing the city in continuous daylight. This phenomenon allows for unique experiences like midnight sun safaris and vibrant nightlife in Norway’s Arctic capital. If you would like to experience both Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands, utilize the Arctic Route summer bus route for seamless travel between Tromsø and Lofoten, enhancing your journey with stunning views and strategic photo stops.
Once in Tromsø, you can also embark on a whale-watching tour at Andenes (2 days: transportation and activity) or visit Senja, from Tromsø, on a self-guided daytime Fjord Tour to Senja with transport from and back to Tromsø via the Arctic Route.
If you are a sporty person, why not check our Kayak trip with lunch and sauna at Sommarøy, from Tromsø, with transport via the Arctic Route?
Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands offer a dramatic backdrop for the midnight sun, with the sun visible 24 hours a day from around May 25 to July 17. Explore sandy beaches like Kvalvika and Skagsanden or hike mountain trails such as Reinebringen for panoramic views. Check here our recommendations for the best hikes in Lofoten, all accessible with the Arctic Route summer bus route within Lofoten.
For an unforgettable experience, go on a 2 hours daytime kayak tour, from Svolvær, and experience Lofoten from a sea perspective. The Arctic Route summer bus route within Lofoten, running daily from Å to Svolvær between June 15 and August 31, is the perfect way to traverse this scenic archipelago.
Do you have a tight schedule in Lofoten? We got you! With our Best of Lofoten in 1 day tour, you cover the main destinations in Lofoten in one day, with long stops at several interest points, so you can discover places such as Henningsvær, Nusfjord, Reine and Flaskstad, all by bus, in one day!
If you want to explore more of Lofoten, one of the best ways to discover it is by boat: visit the famous Trollfjord with a Silent Trollfjord Cruise, departing daily from Svolvær.
Concluding
Through this article, we’ve embarked on a journey under the endless daylight of Norway’s midnight sun, exploring a range of unique activities and stunning locations that flourish under this natural phenomenon.
The seamless exploration facilitated by the Arctic Route summer bus routes, effortlessly connecting Tromsø and Lofoten, as well as the intra-Lofoten travels from Å to Svolvær, turns these adventures into a smooth and accessible experience, between June 15 and August 31.
Reflecting on these experiences, the significance of Norway’s midnight sun extends beyond mere spectacle; it enriches the Arctic summer with endless possibilities for adventure and exploration. The best tours recommended for Tromsø and Lofoten not only highlight the regions’ diverse attractions but also emphasize the convenience and richness of traveling through these stunning landscapes with well-organized transportation options.
