Harstad Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Nestled on Norway's northern coast, Harstad is a charming and picturesque town located in the Troms region. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and array of outdoor activities, Harstad offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers.

One of the main attractions in Harstad is its breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by majestic mountains and fjords, the town offers spectacular views that are sure to take your breath away. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the tranquility of the Arctic Ocean, or hike up one of the nearby peaks for a panoramic vista of the surrounding landscape.

For those seeking adventure, Harstad has plenty to offer. The archipelago of Vesterålen and Lofoten islands are easily accessible from the town, making it an ideal base for exploring these pristine and untouched natural wonders. Embark on a thrilling whale-watching safari, where you can witness these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat. Alternatively, set sail on a fishing excursion and try your luck at catching some of the region's abundant seafood.

Harstad is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. The town hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing the best of local art, music, and theater. Don't miss the annual Arctic Arts Festival, where you can immerse yourself in a diverse range of cultural performances and exhibitions.

History enthusiasts will be delighted by Harstad's historical sites. Visit Trondenes Church, one of the oldest buildings in Northern Norway, and explore its fascinating museum that delves into the region's Viking heritage. The Adolf Gun, a massive World War II coastal artillery piece, is another must-see attraction that offers insight into the town's military past.

When it comes to dining, Harstad offers a plethora of options to suit every palate. Indulge in fresh seafood delicacies at one of the waterfront restaurants, or savor traditional Norwegian cuisine at charming local eateries. To truly experience the town's vibrant nightlife, head to one of the lively bars or pubs, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with friendly locals.

Alternative names: Population: 24.7 thous. (2020)Area: 587.02 mi²Elevation: 10 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 68°48'3"N, 16°32'39"E

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TromsNorway

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Harstad Top Attractions

Harstad Attractions - What to See and Explore

Harstad offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Trondenes Church, Trondenes Historical Center, Harstad Church, Harstad Camping. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Church • Gothic architecture
Trondenes Church
Trondenes Church is the northernmost medieval stone church of Norway and the world's northernmost surviving medieval building. It is a parish church of the Church of Norway in Harstad Municipality in Troms og Finnmark county, Norway.
Museum • History museum
Trondenes Historical Center
Trondenes Historical Center is a museum located in Trondenes, in the town of Harstad, in Troms og Finnmark county, Norway. The museum covers the history of Trondenes and the surrounding areas.
Church
Harstad Church
Harstad Church is a parish church of the Church of Norway in Harstad Municipality in Troms og Finnmark county, Norway. It is located in the town of Harstad.

Campsite
Harstad Camping
Harstad Camping is a campgrounds in the municipality of Harstad in Troms county, Norway. It is located just east of Kanebogen on the Steinbergneset peninsula, about 5 km south of the city of Harstad, along the Vågsfjorden.
Neighbourhood
Grønnebakkan
Grønnebakkan is part of the town of Harstad within Harstad Municipality in Troms county, Norway. It is located about 4 km south of the city centre, just south of Gangsåsbotn, west of Kanebogen, east of Harstadbotn, and southeast of Seljestad.
68°47'26"N • 16°31'22"E
Seljestad
Seljestad is part of the town of Harstad within Harstad Municipality in Troms county, Norway. It is located to the south of the city center and north of the neighborhoods of Harstadbotn and Grønnebakkan.
68°48'21"N • 16°30'53"E
Sama
Sama is part of the town of Harstad within Harstad Municipality in Troms county, Norway. It is located just northwest of the city center.
Universities and schools
Harstad University College
Harstad University College was a høgskole, a Norwegian state institution of higher education, in the city of Harstad which is located in Harstad Municipality in Troms og Finnmark county, Norway.

Day trips

Harstad – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Harstad, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Polar Zoo (Bardu), Norwegian Fishing Industry Museum (Hadseløya), Narvik Church (Narvik).

40 milesE
Zoo
Polar Zoo, Bardu
Polar Park is an animal park in the municipality of Bardu in Troms county, Norway. The park opened on 18 June 1994, displaying animals in their natural habitat. With only 12 enclosures on 110 hectares, the park claims to have one of the world's biggest area-per-animal ratio.
49 milesSW
Museum
Norwegian Fishing Industry Museum, Hadseløya
The Norwegian Fishing Industry Museum is a national museum in Melbu in Vesterålen, Norway. The museum was established in the spring of 1991 and is housed in the building of the former Neptune Herring Oil Factory.
33 milesSE
Church
Narvik Church, Narvik
Narvik Church stands as a beacon of spiritual and architectural significance in the city of Narvik, Norway. This sacred edifice, consecrated in 1925, is a testament to the enduring faith and community spirit of the region.
38 milesN
Lighthouse, Vernacular architecture
Andenes Lighthouse, Andenes
Andenes Lighthouse is a coastal lighthouse in Andøy Municipality in Nordland county, Norway. It is located in the village of Andenes at the northern end of the island of Andøya in the Vesterålen archipelago.
29 milesW
Church
Sortland Church, Sortland
Sortland Church is a parish church of the Church of Norway in Sortland Municipality in Nordland county, Norway. It is located in the town of Sortland.