10 Best Islands in Norway

Located just a 10-minute ferry ride from Flekkefjord in the south part of Norway, Hidra charms visitors with its picture-perfect fishing villages, lush trails and rich history. With only 600 inhabitants, the island is perfect for anyone seeking a quiet, nature-packed getaway.

For spectacular views of the surrounding islets, hike the gentle trail up to Hågåsen. Here, you’ll also find remains of a coastal battery from the Second World War. Afterwards, drop by the Fedrenes Minne Coastal Museum to learn more about the local history.

Craggy peaks, deep fjords and charming fishing villages make the Lofoten Archipelago one of the most wonderful places in Norway. It is located just above the Arctic Circle, so the sun doesn’t set all summer. From September to April, the Northern Lights colour the skies in electric hues.

Lofoten is a paradise for outdoor activities. Surf the cobalt blue waves of Unstad, venture up rocky peaks or fish for Arctic cod, the local speciality. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Lofotr Viking Museum which brims with fascinating Viking artefacts. To visit Lofoten, book your ferry on plane tickets well in advance.

This windswept island sits on the west coast of Norway, offering visitors dynamic coastal views. Vågsøy is packed with interesting spots, such as the Kråkenes lighthouse, which is perched on a rocky spur, and Refvik, one of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the country.

Don’t miss Kannestein rock, a striking rock formation carved into the shape of a whale’s tail by strong westerly winds. Set aside some time to explore the cliff of Einevarden, a nature reserve where you can spot puffins, eider ducks and guillemots.

Magnificent coastal views and pristine white sand beaches are Sommarøy’s star attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the north part of the island, which offers stunning views of the surrounding islets. Look out for Håja Island, recognised by its asymmetric spear-like shape.

Spend the day swimming in Sommarøy’s shallow coves or venture to neighbouring islands such as Tussøy, inhabited by only 5 people, or the mountainous Kvaløya, where you can play with friendly huskies at a dog cafe. Sommarøy is an hour’s drive from the city of Tromsø.

Jomfruland, in the southern part of Norway, is a gorgeous tapestry of salt marshes, pebble beaches and sand dunes. Part of a marine national park with over 100 islets, it’s great for kayaking, fishing and swimming.

The area brims with biodiversity. Wander thick forests of oak and hazel, keeping your eyes peeled for coastal flora such as sea buckthorn and strawberry clover. Avid birdwatchers flock to the Jomfruland to spot nightingales, whitethroats and rosefinches. Don’t forget to visit the lighthouse in the heart of the island, it has been standing there since the 1800s.

With soaring mountains, lush marshlands and pristine lakes, Vega’s landscape is dynamic. It makes the perfect backdrop for all kinds of outdoor activities, from snorkelling and kayaking to hiking and cycling. The island is best known for its long-standing tradition of caring for migrating eider ducks.

Thrill seekers can ascend Ravnfloget, a rugged peak that rewards climbers with panoramic views of the Vega archipelago. For a more laidback excursion, make your way to Ylvingen, where you can cycle through idyllic villages and farmland. If you’re lucky, you may spot a moose or roe deer. Vega is an hour by ferry from Horn.

Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard archipelago, is one of the best places to experience Arctic wilderness. It sits on the Arctic Ocean, halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, and brims with massive glaciers, fjords and lofty peaks that jut out from steel-blue waters.

Feast your eyes on colourful arctic flora, and look out for wildlife such as polar bears, walruses and Arctic seals. Snowmobiles, dog sledging and ice cave excursions are just some of the activities you can choose from. There are weekly flights to Spitsbergen from Oslo.

Located just a short ferry ride from Oslo, the tiny island of Hovedøya delivers a lot of character for its size. Spend the day wandering sun-dappled forests, pristine beaches and fascinating historic sights.

The west side of the island encompasses 2 beaches which are great for swimming. Head to the north part of the island to visit the ruins of a Cistercian monastery from the 12th century, or just hike trails brimming with flora and fauna. Note that camping and campfires are not allowed on Hovedøya, and you can only use grills in designated barbecue spots.

Kvaløya, meaning ‘Whale Island’, is home to magnificent Arctic fjords and snow-capped peaks. There’s no dearth of things to do in this picture-perfect landscape: take a tour around the island to spot sea otters, moose, reindeer and other Arctic wildlife, embark on a dog-sledging adventure or take a boat cruise around the fjords.

Kvaløya is just a 30-minute drive from the city of Tromsø, and you can combine your visit with excursions to nearby islands such as Sommarøy and Hillesøya.

The island of Skrova is dubbed ‘the Hawaii of Lofoten’ for its long hours of sunshine. Although home to just 200 or so inhabitants, Skrova is packed with cultural spots. Alongside spectacular mountains and tranquil beaches, you’ll find art galleries, restaurants and pubs.

Outdoor enthusiasts can go kayaking, cycling or hiking. Alternatively, join a hula-hoop retreat or photography course to pick up a new skill while meeting some of the friendly locals. To access Skrova, hop on an express boat in Bodø.