Northern Norway Map
Explore the Arctic region of Norway. Home to the Northern Lights, Midnight Sun, Lofoten Islands, and Europe's northernmost point.
About Northern Norway (Nord-Norge)
Northern Norway comprises the three northernmost counties: Nordland, Troms, and Finnmark. This vast region makes up about 35% of Norway's land area but is home to only 9% of the population. It's a land of dramatic contrasts - 24-hour daylight in summer and polar night in winter.
The region lies entirely above or near the Arctic Circle (66.5°N) and offers unique natural phenomena including the Northern Lights (September-March) and Midnight Sun (May-July). Major attractions include the spectacular Lofoten Islands, the North Cape, and the vibrant city of Tromsø.
Key Facts About Northern Norway
Counties
Nordland, Troms, Finnmark
Major City
Tromsø (pop. 77,000)
Area
112,975 km² (35% of Norway)
Special Features
Northern Lights, Midnight Sun, Arctic Wildlife
Top Destinations in Northern Norway
Tromsø
Arctic capital of Norway, best city for northern lights tours and polar adventures.
69.6492°N, 18.9553°ELofoten Islands
Dramatic mountain islands rising from the sea, traditional fishing villages, and stunning beaches.
68.2000°N, 14.0000°ENorth Cape (Nordkapp)
Dramatic cliff marking the northernmost point of Europe accessible by car.
71.1685°N, 25.7838°ESvalbard
Arctic archipelago between Norway and the North Pole with polar bears and glaciers.
78.2253°N, 15.6267°EAlta
Northern Lights Cathedral and UNESCO-listed rock carvings.
69.9689°N, 23.2716°ESenja Island
Norway's second largest island with dramatic scenery and fewer tourists than Lofoten.
69.3000°N, 17.5000°ENatural Phenomena
- Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Best viewing September-March, Tromsø is the top destination
- Midnight Sun: 24-hour daylight from mid-May to late July above the Arctic Circle
- Polar Night (Mørketid): Sun stays below horizon from mid-November to late January in northern areas
- Blue Hour: Beautiful twilight during polar night creates magical blue light
Arctic Wildlife
- Whales: Orcas and humpback whales (November-January near Tromsø)
- Polar Bears: Found only in Svalbard
- Reindeer: Semi-domesticated by Sami people throughout the region
- Sea Eagles: White-tailed eagles common in Lofoten
- Seabirds: Puffins and other seabirds on coastal cliffs
Sami Culture
Northern Norway is home to the indigenous Sami people, with rich traditions including reindeer herding, traditional crafts (duodji), and joik singing. Key Sami cultural sites include:
- Kautokeino: Center of Sami culture in Norway
- Karasjok: Home to the Sami Parliament
- Alta: Sami siida (community) experiences