Things to Do in Narvik in Summer

Things to Do in Narvik in Summer

Narvik is a modern town above the Arctic Circle in Northern Norway, beautifully set along the Ofotfjord and surrounded by steep mountain peaks. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Narvik in summer, you’re in the right place. In this guide, you’ll discover the town’s top attractions, a scenic train journey towards the Swedish border, and inspiring ideas for day trips and hikes in the surrounding region. You’ll also find practical travel tips and suggestions on where to stay.

Attractions in Narvik

Narvik is an important industrial town and home to one of the largest ore ports in the world. The town also played a crucial role during the Second World War. In 1940, Narvik was occupied by German forces, after which Allied troops launched a counteroffensive. During the Battle of Narvik, the Germans suffered their first major defeat of the war. The War Museum is entirely dedicated to these events.

Today, Narvik has a compact and modern town centre with lively cafés, restaurants and shops. Thanks to its setting between fjords and mountains, it also makes an excellent base for exploring the wider region. A cable car takes you to the top of Narvikfjellet, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the town and the Ofotfjord. In winter, the slopes attract skiers, while in summer the summit serves as the starting point for several hiking trails.

Arctic Train

The Arctic Train follows the historic Ofotbanen, originally built to transport Swedish iron ore to the ice-free port of Narvik. A journey on this panoramic train takes you past fjords, waterfalls and rugged mountain landscapes, almost reaching the Swedish border. Along the way, you’ll learn more about the history of this remarkable railway line while enjoying spectacular views throughout the trip.

Tip: The train runs from Narvik to Bjørnfjell, the last stop before the Swedish border, before returning to Narvik. An audio guide (available in English and German) provides further insight into the role the railway played during the Second World War. In summer, this popular train journey sells out quickly, so it’s advisable to book your ticket well in advance.

Polar Park

About an hour’s drive from Narvik lies Polar Park, the world’s northernmost wildlife park. Set in a vast natural area, it is home to the “Big Five” of the High North: bears, moose, wolves, lynx and reindeer. Musk oxen and red deer also roam the park. The animals live in spacious enclosures designed to reflect their natural habitats as closely as possible. Allow plenty of time for your visit. Due to the park’s expansive layout, the animals are not always immediately visible, but with a little patience, you’re often rewarded with a truly unforgettable encounter.

Hiking in the Narvik Region

For hiking enthusiasts, the area around Narvik is a true paradise. Several scenic trails start from Narvikfjellet, but we opted for Reinneset, about a forty-minute drive from the town. This short and family-friendly hike leads you across smooth granite slabs towards the summit. At the top, you’re rewarded with magnificent views over the Skjomenfjord and the Reintindbreen glacier.

Tip: Drive towards Skjomen Golf Park and continue for approximately 3.5 kilometres beyond it. At the top of the hill near Reinneset, you can park on the right-hand side of the road. The trail begins at the top of the road and follows the ridge uphill. The first 700 metres are unmarked, but after that, small cairns guide you further towards the summit.

Where to Stay in Narvik

Narvik offers a range of hotels to suit different budgets. We stayed at the Quality Hotel Grand Royal, a classic hotel in the centre of town. Some rooms feel slightly dated, but the property is currently undergoing renovations. Each morning begins with a generous and well-presented breakfast buffet. The hotel also features two restaurants. At Rallar’n Pub & Kro, you can sample traditional Norwegian dishes in an informal and cosy setting, while Linken Restaurant & Bar on the rooftop serves refined tapas, creative cocktails and impressive views over the fjord and surrounding mountains.

Practical Tips for Your Trip to Narvik

How to Get to Narvik

Narvik is easily accessible by car or coach via the E6 and E10 highways. There is also a railway connection to Sweden: the overnight train takes just over 18 hours to travel from Stockholm to Narvik. The nearest airport is located in Evenes, around an hour’s drive from the town. From the airport, buses operate to Narvik and other destinations in the surrounding area.

How to Get Around the Narvik Region

If you’d like to explore the wider area around Narvik, hiring a car is the most convenient option. It’s advisable to compare rental prices, especially during the summer months. When booking, make sure the vehicle is adequately insured to avoid unexpected costs in case of damage or breakdown. With a rental car, you can also easily combine your stay in Narvik with a road trip to the Lofoten Islands or Vesterålen.

Where Can You Park

Most hotels offer a limited number of parking spaces for guests, so it’s best to check availability in advance. In addition, there are several public car parks and parking garages in the town centre. Charging points for electric vehicles are available at various locations in and around the town.

What to Pack for Your Trip

Bring warm clothing and a good waterproof jacket for changeable weather conditions, even in summer. Sturdy walking shoes and a reusable water bottle are highly recommended. Finally, don’t forget your camera to capture Narvik and the surrounding natural landscapes.

This article contains some affiliate links. This means we receive a small commission if you book or purchase through our recommendations. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, but it does help support this blog. Thank you for helping Into the North continue to grow!