The Norwegian city of Narvik in the winter weather. The 2023 worldwide release of the movie Narvik on streaming service
Netflix brought this small industrial city in Northern Norway to the world’s attention. The port city is surrounded by mountains and fjords, providing a spectacular natural playground for visitors to explore. Few other than keen war historians knew much about Narvik prior to the movie, which depicts the dramatic set of land and sea battles that took place in and around Narvik in the early years of World War II. Interest in the city as a tourist destination has grown since the movie’s release. In addition, Narvik is now an increasingly important port of call for several European cruise lines running northern lights and midnight sun itineraries. In summer, the midnight sun bathes Narvik in a never-ending glow, ideal for exploring the hiking trails and fjords at whatever time of day. In winter, Narvik becomes a basecamp for exceptional winter sports and outdoor activities, from downhill skiing and coastal walks to hunting the northern lights. Ride The Arctic Train Modern Narvik exists essentially because of the Ofoten Railway, which was built to link the iron ore mines of Northern
Sweden with the ice-free port in Northern Norway. The Arctic Train is a tourist service on the railway from Narvik towards Sweden. As such, there’s few better ways to dive into the culture, history, and stunning natural beauty of the area than by taking a ride on the railway. Although still primarily used as an iron ore line, there is a daily passenger departure to Sweden’s capital city Stockholm, and a tourist service known as The Arctic Train . This service runs through the mountainous terrain up to the border with Sweden before returning to Narvik. As with Norway’s Flåm Railway, the Arctic Train is a tourist service that includes several photo stops along the way. Typically, it runs on selected days during high season, and when cruise ships are in port at other times of the year. Book directly through your cruise line, or pay approximately $55 to reserve a place in advance with The Arctic Train directly. Bear in mind that cruise line excursions will include transport to and from the railway station, which is approximately 30-minutes walk from the cruise port. Discover Narvik’s History Regardless of whether you’ve watched the movie or not, a visit to Narvik War Museum is a must. The excellent museum reveals the captivating narrative of the early days of the war through the eyes of the people of Narvik. It also takes a step back to ask deeper questions about the value of a human life and whether a war is ever won. Narvik War Museum is a must-visit in Narvik, Norway. For keen war historians, a visit to the war cemetery on the northern side of the city is worth the walk. Here, you’ll find monuments to the various nationalities involved in the Battle of Narvik. A striking brick building standing on the hillside overlooking the cruise port now plays host to Narvik Museum . This small but interesting museum tells the story of the railway’s construction and the subsequent development of the city in more detail. Kids will love exploring the historic locomotive housed within. Enjoy Downhill Skiing Thanks to its stunning views and challenging off-piste opportunities, Narvikfjellet is one of the most famous ski resorts in Northern Norway. The mountain that towers above the city offers panoramic views of the peaks beyond, the city below, and the fjords snaking out to the open ocean. Check the Narvikfjellet resort website for details on the season, opening times, ski pass prices, and equipment rental information. Get A Spectacular View Not a skier? You needn't miss out on the spectacular views from Narvikfjellet, winter or summer. The cable car ride to the summit at 2,152 feet above sea level is well worth it for the views alone, although you might want to wait to judge the weather on the day before committing to a ticket. Summer view from Narvikfjellet mountain in Northern Norway. Beyond the views, cable car visitors can also enjoy a light lunch and refreshing drink at the mountain restaurant. Choose to descend back to the city by cable car, or take a hike along the picturesque mountain road where you’ll meet the grazing goats. Enjoy An Arctic Coastal Walk On Snowshoes Norwegians love nothing more than being outdoors, even in the winter. Find out why by joining a guided Arctic walk using snowshoes. Day Out Narvik offers a three-hour small group tour on snowshoes for approximately $110 including a Norwegian winter picnic by a bonfire. Although no hiking experience is needed, you’ll need to be physically active and willing to be out in the cold for a few hours, so dress well. Chase The Northern Lights... In Sweden! Finally, the northern lights is a big tourist attraction in and around the Narvik area. If you’re visiting between late September and early April, it’s possible to see the aurora from Narvik, if the skies are clear. However, for the best chances, join a guided tour across the border into Sweden. In as little as one hour, you’ll be at Abisko National Park, known as one of the best places to see the northern lights in Sweden , thanks to its frequent clear skies and lack of artificial light pollution. Visit The World’s Northernmost Animal Park An hour or so north of Narvik, Polar Park is a must for animal lovers or those interested in Arctic nature. In addition to the rare opportunity to enter the wolf enclosure and meet these remarkable creatures, the park hosts deer, lynx, reindeer, wolverine, Arctic fox, and the brown bear. Bus transport is available from Narvik.