Getting Around: Lofoten

Public Transportation in Lofoten

The public bus system in Lofoten operates under Nordland Kollektiv. Buses connect most major towns and villages along the E10, the main road through the islands, and also extend to some side roads and detours. The system is reliable but less frequent than in urban areas.

The main bus route follows the E10 highway, connecting Å (at the southern tip of Moskenesøy) all the way north to Svolvær (on Austvågøy). This route goes through or near important locations like Reine, Leknes, Borg (Lofotr Viking Museum), and Henningsvær (with a slight detour). Svolvær, Leknes, Reine, and the Moskenes ferry terminal serve as connection points for bus routes.

Ticketing & Frequency

Tickets are available directly from the bus driver using cash or a credit/debit card.
Alternatively, you can buy tickets conveniently through the Entur app. Using the app sometimes offers small discounts or simplifies transfers.
Fares are distance-based; longer journeys cost more.
Bus services are generally less frequent than in major cities, often with reduced schedules outside peak season and on weekends.

Accessible Buses

Modern buses in Norway typically have ramp access and designated space for wheelchairs, making them accessible.

Plan Your Journey

Given less frequent services, plan your journeys in advance, especially for connections. Use the Entur app for real-time info.

Patience is

Allow ample time for connections, specifically in winter when weather influences schedules.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services

Taxis are available in larger towns like Svolvær and Leknes. Look for official taxi stands.
You can also call a local taxi company directly. Local hotels or tourist information centers provide numbers.
Taxis in Norway are expensive. Fares are metered, with additional charges for luggage, late-night travel, or public holidays.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt are generally not available or widely used in Lofoten. Local taxi services remain the main option.
Taxis in Norway are safe and regulated. Drivers are licensed and vehicles undergo regular inspections.
Taxis are usually available directly outside small Lofoten airports and main ferry terminals. Pre-book during peak season or for large groups.

Rental Options - Overview

Car Rental

The most flexible way to explore Lofoten.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common; a few individual operators might offer them in summer.

Bicycle Rentals

Available in many towns like Svolvær, Leknes, and Reine. No large-scale sharing programs.

Specialty Vehicles

Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not present in Lofoten.

Car Rental Procedures & Laws

International rental companies like Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt operate from Bodø and Evenes Airports on the mainland, and also from Svolvær and Leknes Airports within Lofoten.

Requirements & Booking

Age: Minimum age for rental typically ranges from 19 to 25, depending on the company and car category. Surcharges often apply for drivers under 25.
Driving License: A valid driving license from your home country is needed. If your license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) must accompany it.
Credit Card: A major credit card (Visa, Mastercard) is needed for the deposit and payment.
Booking: Book your rental car well in advance, especially for summer and winter peak seasons. Car availability is limited.

Driving Laws & Roads

Driving Laws: Drive on the right side of the road. Headlights must be on at all times, even during daylight. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits have strict enforcement. Use a GPS or navigation app.
Road Conditions: The E10 is the main artery and is generally good. However, roads can be narrow, winding, and feature steep sections, especially off the main highway. In winter, roads can be extremely slippery.
Parking: Paid parking is common in popular villages and at the start of popular hiking trails. Look for payment machines or use parking apps (e.g., EasyPark or Flowbird). Follow instructions on signage.
Watch for sheep on roads, especially during warmer months. Moose can also be a hazard, notably at dawn and dusk. Drive slowly and stay alert.

Walking & Cycling in Lofoten

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Most of Lofoten's picturesque villages, like Reine, Nusfjord, Hamnøy, and Henningsvær, are very walkable. Numerous designated walking trails exist around villages.
Walking Tour Options: Guided walking tours are available in larger towns. Many popular hikes are well-marked and can be undertaken independently using maps.
Safety Tip: Always inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. Weather changes swiftly.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety: The E10, Lofoten's main road, has narrow shoulders in many places, making road cycling challenging due to traffic. Some quieter side roads offer better and safer cycling.
The Lofoten Arctic Cycling Route exists, often following quieter roads or dedicated paths for multi-day adventures.
Wearing a Helmet is highly advised. Reflective clothing is functional, especially during twilight hours.

No-Go Areas & Specialized Transport

Tunnels

Many tunnels on the E10 are generally not safe for cycling; check local signage.

Busy Roads

Avoid walking or cycling on very busy sections of the E10, especially in summer, if safer alternatives exist.

Boat Taxis

Boat taxis are truly functional for accessing smaller, remote islands or secluded beaches and hiking trails not reachable by road.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard modes, Lofoten presents unique transportation experiences, often part of organized tours.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

Tour Buses: Organized tour buses operate from Svolvær and Leknes, covering popular sights and villages. These tours offer a simple way to see many attractions without self-driving.
No hop-on-hop-off services are available in Lofoten. Tour buses follow set itineraries.
Boat Taxis and Water Transportation: Boat taxis are truly functional for accessing smaller, remote islands like Værøy and Røst, or secluded beaches and hiking trails that have no road access.
Many fishing villages offer local boat tours or transfers, presenting an unique perspective of the coastline and fjords.

Unique Transport & Accessibility

Cable Cars, Funiculars, or Unique Local Transport: Lofoten has no cable cars or funiculars. The terrain has traversal by roads, bridges, and tunnels.
Accessibility Services for Travelers with Mobility Needs: Specific accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are limited beyond the standard provisions on modern buses and taxis.
It is always wise to check directly with accommodation providers, tour operators, and transportation companies in advance about their accessibility features.
Planning and communication make things easier.

Rental Car Companies Daily Estimate

Avis / Budget

Approx. Daily Rate: 650-1500 NOK

Wide range, Budget often more affordable.

Hertz / Europcar

Approx. Daily Rate: 700-1600 NOK

Reputable, good presence, various sizes.

Sixt

Approx. Daily Rate: 800-1700 NOK

Often higher-end vehicles for more comfort.

Car Rental Pickup Locations

Lofoten Airports

Svolvær Airport (SVJ)
Leknes Airport (LKN)
Rental desks usually at terminal.

Mainland Hubs

Bodø Airport (BOO)
Evenes Airport (EVE)
Many car options available here.

Important Rental Notes

Minimum age for rental typically 19-25.
Surcharges often apply for drivers under 25.
Book well in advance, especially for peak seasons, due to limited car availability.
Last-minute rentals can be significantly more expensive or unavailable.

In winter (Nov-Apr), winter tires are mandatory. Rental companies supply these.
Be ready for snow, ice, and strong winds.
Road conditions change swiftly.
Always check current road conditions.

Final Tip for Exploring

Whether by car, bus, bicycle, or boat, each mode of transport in Lofoten offers an unique perspective of this stunning archipelago.

Choose what suits your travel style and prepare for an unforgettable journey.

Getting Around Lofoten