Harstad is a gem for travelers seeking authentic Arctic adventures. Its location in Nordland County makes it an ideal base for exploring the Northern Lights, fjords, and historic sites. What sets Harstad apart is the way its tours combine natural beauty with local culture—whether you’re cruising the fjords, chasing the Aurora Borealis, or exploring medieval churches. We particularly love the Northern Lights Tours with a second-day chance because it offers a private, personalized experience away from crowds, with the added reassurance of a free second night if luck isn’t on your side. Plus, the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach make every moment memorable. For a taste of local craftsmanship, the Night time tour of Harstad Craft Brewery offers an authentic peek into Norwegian brewing traditions with tastings of five distinct beers. Whether you’re after a scenic sailing, a cultural visit, or an aurora chase, Harstad’s variety of tours promises genuine experiences that go beyond the typical tourist spots.
Quick Overview
This list showcases six of the best tours in Harstad, covering a diverse array of interests:
– Aurora hunting with a private, tailored experience (Harstad/Narvik: Northern Lights Tours with second day chance)
– Sailing through scenic fjords (Harstad: Fjordcruise sailing with skipper)
– A dedicated Northern Lights hunt on Hinnøya Island (Northern Lights Hunt on Hinnøya Island)
– An evening sailing combined with aurora chasing (Late night sailing with northern light chase)
– Visiting the historic Trondenes Church (Trondenes Church Guided Tour)
– Tasting Norway’s craft beers at Harstad Brewery (Night time tour of Harstad Craft Brewery)
Now, let’s explore each of these top picks in detail.
1. Harstad/Narvik: Northern Lights Tours with second day chance
This private tour offers a unique opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis in a comfortable, personalized setting. It’s rated 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 81 reviews, reflecting its popularity and quality. The tour includes hotel transfers from Harstad, Narvik, or Tjeldsund, making logistics effortless. The experience lasts about 4.5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
What makes this tour special is the second-night free guarantee—if you don’t see the lights on your first try, you get a second chance at no extra cost. The guide, Constantin, is praised for his enthusiasm and expertise, often driving to the best spots for aurora viewing and helping guests with photography. During the night, you can enjoy sipping wine while watching the skies, and optional activities like exploring mountain areas, barbequing, or fishing add variety. The fjord views from a climate-controlled vehicle mean comfort, even in cold weather.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a tailored, intimate Northern Lights experience, with the security of a second-night offer. The personalized approach and flexible activities make it a top choice.
2. Harstad: Fjordcruise sailing with skipper
For about $253 per person, this 3.5-hour fjord sailing adventure puts you in the midst of Norway’s quiet, pristine waters. It’s rated 5 out of 5 based on 4 reviews, underscoring its quality. Led by a knowledgeable local skipper, you’ll cruise from Sjågata in Harstad, soaking in the stunning fjord scenery and keeping an ear open for stories about Viking history.
This tour is perfect if you’re curious about maritime life and want a hands-on experience. The skipper shares stories about the area, its wildlife, and the seafaring traditions that shaped the region. The small-group setting ensures an intimate experience, and you’ll get to see the landscape from a different perspective—up close and on the water.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxing, scenic cruise with a genuine local touch, this sailing tour delivers. It’s a premium experience for those interested in Norwegian coastal culture and wildlife.
3. Harstad: Northern Lights Hunt on Hinnøya Island
This 4-hour tour costs around $175 per person and is rated 5 out of 5 by travelers who’ve been lucky enough to witness the Aurora on Hinnøya Island. It’s operated by professional Northern Lights chasers who take you to prime spots that maximize your chances of a sighting.
Hinnøya Island’s natural beauty combines with expert guidance—guides bring hot drinks and Norwegian snacks to keep warm while waiting for the lights to dance across the sky. They also share insights into the Aurora Borealis and regional geography, enriching the experience. The small group size and remote locations mean fewer light pollution issues, giving you a clearer view of the sky’s green glow.
One reviewer shared that seeing the Aurora was “simply spectacular,” and appreciated the thorough explanation of the phenomenon. The opportunity to take incredible photos while staying warm in a snowsuit makes this an excellent choice for serious Aurora hunters.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers chasing the Northern Lights with an emphasis on comfort and expert guidance. It’s a solid value for a memorable night under the Arctic sky.
4. Late night sailing with northern light chase
At 3 hours long and priced at $253 per person, this sailing trip combines starry skies, mountain views, and Aurora chasing. Rated 5 out of 5, it’s a cozy, intimate experience, ideal for those who want to combine a maritime adventure with the thrill of waiting for the Northern Lights.
Led by an experienced skipper, the tour involves learning how to navigate by natural cues while keeping an eye out for the Aurora, or “Bifrost,” as Norwegians call it. This trip is best suited for travelers comfortable on boats and eager to enjoy a quiet, star-lit journey while listening to stories about local history.
The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and the experience of sailing under the Arctic night sky adds a special dimension to your trip. Since it’s shorter than some other options, it’s great for those with limited time or seeking an evening of understated adventure.
Bottom Line: An atmospheric choice for maritime enthusiasts or those wanting a peaceful, starry night with Aurora chasing in a cozy setting.
$253 per person
5. Harstad: Trondenes Church Guided Tour
For history and architecture lovers, the Trondenes Church tour offers a quiet peek into Norway’s oldest medieval stone church. Priced at only $28 per person, it lasts 1 to 2 hours and is rated 5 out of 5, making it a highly affordable cultural highlight.
The church, known for its Gothic design, is the northernmost medieval stone church in the world. Your guide will point out faint paintings, carvings, and artifacts that tell stories of the church’s role in converting Norse pagans to Christianity. You’ll also learn about its function in regional life and its symbolic importance in the transition from Norse gods to Christian faith.
Surrounded by snow-capped mountains in a peaceful setting, the church offers a chance to slow down and reflect. It’s suitable for all ages and those interested in Norwegian religious history or architecture.
Bottom Line: A concise, inexpensive cultural visit that offers insight into Norway’s medieval past and religious heritage.
$28 per person
6. Night time tour of Harstad Craft Brewery
For lovers of local flavors, this 2-hour brewery tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at Harstad’s craft beer scene. While the price isn’t listed, the experience is notable for its depth—visitors sample five different beers paired with local cheeses and meats.
The guide explains the production process, including how slight variations influence the final product. You’ll learn about the history of beer in Norway and how Harstad’s brewers are keeping tradition alive while experimenting with new styles. The tasting, combined with insights into local ingredients and brewing techniques, makes this a flavorful, fun stop.
This tour is perfect if you enjoy craft beers and want to support local producers. It’s also suitable for those interested in food pairing and the art of brewing. The main drawback: tasting sessions mean alcohol consumption, so plan accordingly if you’re driving or prefer non-alcoholic options.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beer enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, informative tour with a taste of local craftsmanship.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
Choosing among these options depends on your interests and trip priorities. If chasing the Northern Lights with a personalized touch appeals, the Northern Lights Tours with a second-day chance is hard to beat. Prefer a scenic day on the water? The fjord cruise offers a relaxing maritime escape. For culture lovers, the Trondenes Church provides historical insights, while beer fans should consider the brewery tour for a flavorful experience.
Practical tips:
– Book early during peak Northern Lights season (late fall to early spring) to ensure availability.
– If your time is limited, the church guided tour offers a quick cultural fix.
– Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordable church tour and the brewery tour.
– For the best chance of aurora sightings, choose tours that include remote locations and expert guides (Northern Lights Hunt on Hinnøya).
Final Thoughts
Harstad offers a rich selection of tours suited to various interests—from the natural spectacle of the Aurora Borealis to the serenity of fjord sailing and the charm of historic churches. For those seeking a personalized, flexible experience, the Northern Lights Tours with a second-day chance stands out. If you want a relaxed day on the water, the fjords sailing is excellent. Culture and history enthusiasts will find value in the Trondenes Church, while beer lovers should not miss the brewery tour.
Remember, booking early is key during the northern lights season, and tailoring your choice to your interests—whether that’s spectacular sky-watching or culture—will make your Harstad visit truly memorable.