Best Time to Visit Lofoten Islands: When to Go and Why Choosing the best time...
Read MoreBest Time to Visit Lofoten Islands: When to Go and Why
Choosing the best time to visit the Lofoten Islands depends on what kind of magic you’re looking for. These wild Arctic islands change dramatically with the seasons — from the soft pink glow of winter to the endless daylight of summer.
When I visited in late May and early June, it felt like Lofoten was just waking up from a long winter sleep. The air was crisp but pleasant, the days were growing longer, and the famous midnight sun had just begun — a surreal experience, watching the sun hover above the horizon without ever setting. We were lucky with the weather too: plenty of sunshine, calm winds, and only a few scattered clouds drifting over the peaks.
It was still early in the season, so the islands were peaceful — no crowds, no packed parking lots, and prices were noticeably lower than in July or August. For me, this balance of quiet nature, glowing light, and mild weather made it one of the most rewarding times to visit.
Please note, this post may contain affiliate links.
Month-by-Month Guide to Lofoten
March
- .Winter still rules the islands, and you can often see the northern lights early in the month.
The long Arctic nights start to fade, but snow still covers most trails.
It’s a great time for winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, or photography.
April – May
Spring arrives slowly in the Arctic. The snow begins to melt, and the days get noticeably longer.
By early May, the landscape turns from brown to green almost overnight.
Temperatures can still be chilly, and you might even see a few snowflakes.
Be cautious when hiking — this is also the season for avalanches and rockfalls as the snow thaws.
Popular programs
Powered by GetYourGuide
June
The midnight sun appears from late May to mid-July, bringing 24-hour daylight.
Perfect time for hiking, kayaking, and camping, though some mountain tops can still be snowy.
Whale-watching tours also start this month. Reserve your spot!
July
This is peak season in Lofoten. The weather is at its best — mild temperatures, green meadows, and endless daylight.
Expect more tourists, fully booked accommodations, and higher prices.
Still, it’s the ideal time for outdoor adventures and long road trips.
August
Nights slowly return, bringing the first hints of darkness — and a small chance to spot the northern lights toward the end of the month.
The weather is still pleasant and great for camping.
A good balance between lively summer vibes and fewer crowds than July.
September – October
Days shorten quickly, and dramatic storms often sweep across the islands.
The first snow returns to the peaks, and icy nights begin.
Despite the unstable weather, autumn colors and shifting light make this one of the most beautiful times for photographers.
November
Often wet, windy, and dark — generally not the best time to visit.
Most tourist services close for the season, and daylight hours are very limited.
Accommodation recommendation: We stayed at Skårungen – Hotel, Cabins and Camping, which offered beautiful views and a cozy atmosphere. It was the perfect base for exploring the islands.
December – Mid-February
The darkest time of year, with very little daylight — but also magical winter light that paints the sky in shades of pink and orange.
It’s quiet and peaceful, with a good chance of seeing the aurora borealis.
Many restaurants and cafés close for winter, so plan accordingly.
For a winter visit, the best conditions are usually from mid-January to late March, when days start to lengthen again.
My Recommendation
If you’re wondering what I’d consider the best time to visit the Lofoten Islands, I’d choose late May to early June or September.
In late spring, the islands are waking up after a long winter — the days are long, the sun often shines, and you can enjoy the beauty of the midnight sun without the summer crowds or high prices.
September, on the other hand, offers soft golden light, colorful landscapes, and the first chance to see the northern lights again. Both seasons feel calmer and more authentic, letting you experience Lofoten at its most peaceful.
Chance to see the midnight sun and the northern lights
Midnight Sun in Lofoten
The midnight sun is one of the most magical experiences in the Arctic. Between mid-May and mid-July, the sun never sets — it simply circles above the horizon, casting a soft golden glow over the mountains, fjords, and fishing villages.
It’s a surreal feeling to hike at midnight, surrounded by light that looks like sunset but never fades.
The phenomenon happens because Lofoten lies above the Arctic Circle, where the tilt of the Earth keeps the sun visible 24 hours a day during summer.
If you’re planning a visit, late May to early July is the best time to visit the Lofoten Islands for this experience.
Travel tip: Head to beaches like Haukland, Uttakleiv, or Eggum for incredible views of the sun hovering over the sea. Bring an eye mask if you plan to sleep — the light never truly disappears!
Northern Lights in Lofoten
In contrast to the bright summer months, winter in Lofoten brings the mysterious beauty of the northern lights (aurora borealis).
Because the islands sit within the aurora oval — the region where aurora activity is strongest — they offer a good chance to see the dancing green lights on clear, dark nights.
The best time to see the northern lights in Lofoten is from September to early April, with October, February, and early March being the peak months for strong aurora activity.
To witness them, you need four things: solar energy, darkness, clear skies, and patience. The lights often appear between 8 p.m. and 1 a.m., but every night is different.
Travel tip: Get away from artificial lights — places like Gimsøya, Flakstad, and Myrland Beach are perfect for aurora watching. Dress warmly, check the KP index, and don’t forget your tripod if you want to capture the magic.
Powered by GetYourGuide
Weather forecast for Lofoten
Hotel Tip
Scandic Hotels – A Trusted Choice Across Scandinavia
If you’re traveling in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, or Finland, Scandic Hotels is a name you can count on. With properties in nearly every major city, Scandic is a popular choice among travelers for its consistent quality, excellent value, and reliable comfort.
Most locations offer a generous breakfast buffet included in the price, along with family-friendly amenities. Rooms are clean, modern, and straightforward, and the staff is known for being warm and helpful.
👉 Looking for a dependable hotel in Scandinavia? Check availability at Scandic Hotels here and book your stay with confidence!
Need help planning your trip?
.
Here are my favourite sites to use when planning my trips:
.
Find your flight: Kiwi or use the airline’s direct website
Book your Hotel: Booking.com and Airbnb
Search for a rental car: Discovercars
Stay Connected Anywhere: Airalo eSIM
Book an unforgettable experiences: GetYourGuide
.
Source: Wandering Linda
Photos: Wandering Linda
Affiliate Program: Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that I get a small commission on sales generated through this website. This doesn’t increase the price of the service, so if you found my post useful, you’re welcome to start your booking from the link above. Thank you very much for your support!
Related post
Ultimate 7-Day Lofoten Islands Itinerary: Beaches, Hikes & Scenic Villages
Ultimate 7-Day Lofoten Island Itinerary: Beaches, Hikes & Scenic Villages Lofoten Islands Itinerary If you’re...
Read More
Lofoten Bucket List – Best Things to Do in Lofoten, Norway
Lofoten Bucket List – Top Things to Do in Norway’s Arctic Paradise The Lofoten Islands...
Read More