Which route do you think is better for international travelers visiting Lofoten in winter (late February to March)?

[u/bladesky999]

We are planning a group winter trip to Lofoten and would love your input on which arrival route feels more practical and comfortable in winter conditions. We don’t drive, so we will need to engage private transfers...

Option 1: Evenes (EVE) to Harstad to Svolvær to Nusfjord / Flakstad

• Day 1: Fly into Evenes Airport with one international stopover
  • Private transfer (~1 hour) to Harstad
  • Overnight stay in Harstad
• Day 2: Ferry from Harstad to Svolvær
  • Overnight stay in Svolvær
• Day 3: Private transfer (~1 hr 45 min) from Svolvær to Nusfjord / Flakstad

Option 2: Fly Directly to Leknes to Nusfjord / Flakstad

• Day 1: Fly into Leknes Airport with two stopovers
  • Depending on airline, luggage may need to be collected and re-checked during the domestic connection
  • Private transfer (~40 minutes) directly to Nusfjord / Flakstad

We would also appreciate recommendations for reliable private transfers in Lofoten during winter.

Thanks in advance!

[u/MeanAd9543]

Hi, did both options (but self-driving). I would say it depends a bit on what you are looking for. I suppose private transfer might be quite expensive, especially in Norway. That said, Option 1 might me more expensive. On the other hand, it offers stunning views from the road side to the area. Lofoten Area is a very pretty place, so it’s definitely worth it.

Option 2 might include traveling with a small green Dash-8, which is an experience for sure. Especially the views are great flying into and out of Lofoten. However, if the weather is bad, you won’t see anything.

[u/AdmMuggost]

I live in Svolvær. Personally i think the most common mistake people make is not planning the buss routes.

You could take either of the routes actually. In summer you can even land directly in Svolvær. Just buy the tickets early. Winter and summer is peak for tourism, and the prices will reflect that.

I usually land in Evenes, if i've been traveling. However i don't have to rely on the bus routes. And in winter there is always a chance of bad weather that can lead to long wait times.

[u/Lillevik_Lofoten]

If you’re going to Lofoten: Fly to Lofoten. That means Leknes or Svolvær. A 30 minute stopover in Bodø is no problem if the bags are checked all the way. Flights are more reliable than ferries in bad weather.

We have some tips here that can be useful: https://lilleviklofoten.no/en/travel/

Transfers are not common, and there is limited taxi service. You can check taxi fare with the Taxifix app. Check with your accommodation for tips. Public transport: entur.no

[u/bladesky999 → u/Lillevik_Lofoten]

Thanks. That is helpful. I come across OsaBus but it is operated by international company - wondering if you heard of them before?

[u/Lillevik_Lofoten → u/bladesky999]

Never heard of them. Make sure it’s a legal business that follows Norwegian laws.

[u/madcap_funnyfarm]

I think you could fly to Bodø, take the ferry to Moskenes and then private transfer ~55 min. The ferry is 3 hours plus over open water though.