Practical info

Most transportation and tour options in Honningsvåg are coordinated with cruise arrivals and departures. The cruise port is located right in the harbor, and the bus meeting point is only a short walk from the ship. If you have booked a tour, please check your ticket for your assigned meeting location and departure time.

If you are unsure where to go, you are welcome to visit the Tourist Information, located next to the harbor, and we will assist you.

If your ship is delayed, operators usually adjust departure times when possible. For changes or cancellations, please refer to the information provided by your tour operator or cruise line.

Hurtigruten dock in Honningsvåg twice a day, northbound and southbound.
The harbour is located right in the town centre, and you can easily walk to shops, restaurants, and the Tourist Information.

If you want to book a journey starting from Honningsvåg, you must book it directly on the Hurtigruten website by selecting Honningsvåg as your from/to port.

Honningsvåg Airport (HVG) is served by Widerøe with daily flights via Tromsø.
The airport is small and easy to navigate, and it is located about 10 minutes from the town centre by car or taxi.

If you are traveling here during winter, we strongly recommend arriving one or two days in advance.
Weather conditions can affect flights, and having extra time gives you a safer and more relaxed travel experience.

It is also recommended to book your entire journey directly with Widerøe.
If delays or cancellations occur, Widerøe will help coordinate the rest of your trip. If you are connecting to international flights, try to allow at least one extra day between your arrival in Honningsvåg and your long-haul departure.

There is a direct bus service between Honningsvåg and Alta, with three departures per day. The route continues all the way to Alta Airport (ALF), making it a convenient option for travelers connecting to regional or international flights.

The journey crosses mountain areas and open coastline, offering stunning views along the way.
However, during winter, weather conditions can affect the route. In strong winds, heavy snow, or poor visibility, buses may be delayed or canceled, especially over the mountain plateau between Olderfjord and Alta.

We recommend checking the bus schedule and road conditions on the day of travel, and allowing extra time if you are connecting to a flight. You can find more info on snelandia.no

Yes, you can usually bring a bike on the bus between Honningsvåg and Alta, but it depends on available space. Bikes are only accepted if there is room in the luggage compartment, and this cannot be guaranteed—especially during busy travel periods.

We recommend arriving early to increase the chance of securing space. During winter, keep in mind that weather and reduced luggage capacity may affect whether bikes can be transported.

It doesn’t cost any money to visit the Globe monument and have a look around the North Cape Plataeu. Parking is free, but limited to 6 hours. Overnight parking is also not allowed.

It does in fact cost money to enter the North Cape Hall which is placed on the North Cape Plataeu. More information about pricing for the North Cape Hall are found here.

It’s also possible to book tours to the North Cape Plataeu via our tour operators, and some of these tours also include entrance fee to the North Cape Hall.

Yes. The road to the North Cape is normally open from late spring to early autumn.
Summer driving conditions are generally good, but weather in the far north can still change quickly, so we recommend checking road and weather updates before starting your trip.

The drive includes steep sections, wide open plateau areas, and stretches of narrower coastal road.
Take your time, especially in windy or foggy conditions, and watch for reindeer along the route.

Please note: It’s not unusual to see patches of snow on the mountain plateau until early June, but the road itself is generally kept clear and fully drivable.

Yes. The town center is compact with short walking distances and mostly level terrain.

Road and convoy updates: www.vegvesen.no
Weather forecast: www.yr.no

Web camera for North Cape Plateau: https://nordkapp.panomax.com/

You can buy fuel and charge your electric car in Honningsvåg, but there are few or no options elsewhere on Magerøya. Fill up or charge before you drive to the North Cape plateau or the fishing villages.

• Petrol stations: There are no traditional petrol stations in Magerøya, but there are two places where you can fill petrol/diesel on Magerøya. One is located in Honningsvåg near Rema 1000 and the other near the airport.
• EV charging: Fast chargers are available at in Honningsvåg and Storbukt. There is also one available in Skarsvåg. Use apps such as Elton / Plugshare to see live availability.
• On the way to Nordkapp: The nearest alternatives on the mainland are in Olderfjord, 98 kilometres from Honningsvåg. Distances between charging points are long in Finnmark, so plan your route before you set off.

Yes. Car rental is available in Honningsvåg. We recommend booking in advance, especially in summer.

Yes, local taxi services are available in Honningsvåg.
However, please note that taxis primarily operate within the town centre and surrounding areas. The taxi service is limited and mainly prioritizes essential local transport, such as taking elderly residents to medical appointments.

Because of this, taxis cannot be relied on for trips to the North Cape, and availability may vary depending on the season and daily demand.

Several tour operators offer guided excursions that visit some of the local fishing villages, such as Gjesvær, Skarsvåg, Kamøyvær and Nordvågen. These tours are a convenient way to explore the area and learn about coastal culture and history.

If you prefer to travel on your own, the easiest option is to drive. The villages are connected by well-maintained roads and are within short driving distance of Honningsvåg. If you are visiting during the winter months, please read the information under “Winter in Nordkapp”.

You can also travel by Flexx bus (Bestillingstransport). This service must be booked at least 4 hours before departureby calling 75 77 18 88. Availability may vary by season, so booking early is recommended. More info can be found on snelandia.no

Weather changes quickly in the Arctic. Conditions can shift between clear skies and strong wind in a short period of time. Always check the forecast when planning travel or outdoor activity.

Dress for wind and changing weather, whatever the season. Even in summer it can feel cold on the North Cape plateau, which is open to the Arctic Ocean and often very windy.

• Layers: Wear several layers you can add or remove. Wool or other warm materials are better than cotton.
• Outer layer: Bring a windproof and waterproof jacket, and ideally waterproof trousers.
• Accessories: A hat, gloves and a scarf are useful all year round, also in summer.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes with good grip. In winter, wear warm, insulated boots, and use ice grips or crampons on icy surfaces.
• In winter: Wear thermal underwear, a thick jacket, and face protection against the wind. The wind chill can make it feel much colder than the temperature shows.

Typical summer temperatures are around 6–15 °C, and in winter often between –5 and –15 °C, with wind.

Yes. Always check the weather before hiking on Magerøya. Weather conditions can change very quickly in the far north, even during summer.

Thick fog is especially common on the island, and it can reduce visibility to just a few meters. If you are unfamiliar with the terrain, this can make it difficult to stay on the trail or understand where you are. Because of this, we recommend checking the forecast, bringing proper navigation tools, and choosing marked routes whenever possible.

The road to the North Cape (E69) is well-maintained, but the terrain varies. The drive includes steep sections, stretches of wide, open mountain plateau, and areas with narrower coastal road. During summer, the road is usually in good condition and easy to drive.

Weather in the far north can change quickly, especially on the plateau. Fog, wind, and reduced visibility can occur even in summer, so it’s always smart to check road and weather updates before you start your trip.

In early summer, you may still see patches of snow along the mountain, but the road itself is normally kept clear and fully drivable.

Arriving in winter? Please read the segment “Winter in Nordkapp”.

Yes. From late spring to autumn, Magerøya is summer pasture for semi-domesticated reindeer owned by Sámi reindeer herders. The reindeer roam freely and often walk along or stand on the road, especially on the way to the North Cape plateau.

• – Slow down and be ready to stop. Reindeer can suddenly run across the road, often in groups.
• – Don’t honk or try to chase them away. Drive slowly past, or wait until they move.
• – Never feed or touch the reindeer, and keep your distance, especially from calves.
• – Don’t stop in the road to take photos. Use a parking area or lay-by.
• – If you hit a reindeer, you are required to report it to the police by calling 02800, even if the animal runs away.

At the North Cape, the sun stays above the horizon around the clock from about the middle of May to the end of July. For more than two months it never sets, and you can experience daylight at any hour.

The best time to see it is around midnight, when the sun is low in the northern sky above the Arctic Ocean. The North Cape plateau, facing straight north, is one of the most famous places in the world to see the midnight sun.

The weather can change quickly, and fog or clouds sometimes hide the sun. If you stay a few nights, you’ll have a better chance of clear skies. Even outside the midnight sun period, the summer nights here are bright from early May to mid-August.

The North Cape plateau sits on top of a steep cliff more than 300 metres above the sea. It is safe to visit if you show respect for nature and follow a few simple rules:

• – Stay inside fences and marked areas, and never climb over them to take photos.
• – Strong gusts of wind can come suddenly and are powerful enough to make you lose your balance. Take extra care near the edge in windy weather.
• – Rocks and grass near the edge can be slippery and unstable, especially when wet.
• – Fog can quickly reduce visibility to a few metres. Stay on marked paths and near the buildings.
• – In winter, snow and ice make the ground slippery, and snow overhangs can form at the edge, so stay well away from it.
• – Always keep a close eye on children and keep dogs on a lead.

Drone use is regulated due to proximity to Honningsvåg Airport. Always review Norwegian aviation and drone rules before flying.

Winter at the top of Europe can sound a little intimidating, with snow, wind, convoys and weeks without sunrise. But it is one of the most beautiful times to visit. Instead of one long dark season, winter here is a journey through changing light, and we divide it into three parts:

Aurora Autumn (September – November)
The nights grow dark again after the midnight sun, while the days still have good daylight. The landscape shifts from autumn colours to the first snow, and the Northern Lights season begins. Clear, dark evenings give you a good chance of seeing the aurora dance over the Arctic Ocean.

Polar Night (November – January)
The sun stays below the horizon, but it is not pitch dark. For a few hours around midday, the sky glows in deep blue and pink twilight that reflects off the snow and the sea. It is a calm, magical time with long evenings for Northern Lights, and the darkness gives the landscape a special atmosphere.

Arctic Light (January – April)
The sun returns, and the days quickly grow longer. Snow-covered landscapes, crisp air and long golden and blue hours make this a favourite season for photographers. In the early part of the season, the nights are still dark enough for the Northern Lights.

Whichever part of winter you choose, weather and road conditions can change quickly. Plan with extra time, and read our tips on convoy driving and winter travel below.

In winter, weather can affect travel to, from and around Nordkapp, so a flexible schedule makes your trip much more relaxed. Strong winds and snow can delay or cancel flights, buses and the convoy to the North Cape plateau, sometimes at short notice.

Our recommendations:

• Arriving: Plan to arrive in Honningsvåg one or two days before any tours or activities that matter most to you.
• Leaving: Allow at least one extra day between leaving Nordkapp and any long-haul flight or important connection.
• The North Cape plateau: Don’t save your visit for your last day. If the convoy is cancelled, you’ll have another chance.
• Buses and connections: The bus between Honningsvåg and Alta can be delayed or cancelled in bad weather. Avoid tight connections, and check snelandia.no before you travel.
• Bookings: Choose flexible tickets and accommodation where possible, and check that your travel insurance covers delays caused by weather.
• Before you set off: Check vegvesen.no/trafikk, yr.no and your transport provider on the day you travel.

A little extra time means a delay won’t ruin your trip. It may even give you another night to see the Northern Lights.

During winter, the road to the North Cape (E69 between Skarsvåg and the North Cape Plateau) may be driven only in scheduled convoys due to weather and safety conditions. This is completely normal for the Arctic winter season.

Convoys are free of charge and no booking is required. A snowplow leads the convoy, and all vehicles follow together to ensure safe travel.

If you plan to drive yourself, make sure your car is equipped for winter conditions (winter tires, warm clothing, food, and a full tank of fuel).

Weather may affect visibility and wind, so convoy schedules can change. Always check road updates before traveling:
• vegvesen.no/trafikk
• or the app “Vegvesen Trafikk”.

If you prefer not to drive, guided tours to the North Cape are available and are scheduled according to convoy times.

The convoy is led and supervised by the road authorities, and all vehicles must follow their instructions.

Here’s how it works:

1. Arrive early at the convoy meeting point
A departure time will be announced by the road authorities (Statens Vegvesen). We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes in advance.

2. Follow the convoy leader and keep a steady, safe distance.
Do not overtake, stop, or leave the line of vehicles. They control the speed for everyone’s safety.

3. Use low-beam headlights and keep your hazard lights off.
This ensures visibility without blinding other drivers.

4. Be prepared for reduced visibility, strong winds, and icy roads.
The convoy runs even in challenging conditions, so drive carefully and stay alert.

5. Make sure your car is winter-ready.
You must have proper winter tires, enough fuel, and warm clothing in the car in case of delays.

Convoys are scheduled based on weather and safety assessments by Statens Vegvesen. You can check updated convoy times on their website or by calling the road information service.

Yes. If you are driving in Northern Norway from late October to early May, your vehicle should be equipped with proper winter tires. Conditions on Magerøya can change quickly, with snow, ice, and strong winds occurring well into spring and returning early in autumn.

Winter tires must have good tread, and studded tires are recommended during the coldest months, especially if you plan to drive to the North Cape or across the mountain plateau.

If you rent a car locally, it will already have the correct seasonal tires fitted.

If you’re driving a larger vehicle, remember to bring snow chains for your tires.

We recommend that you think carefully about it. Winter roads on Magerøya can be challenging, even for experienced drivers. Strong winds, drifting snow, icy roads and darkness can quickly create difficult conditions. The road to the North Cape plateau is only open in convoy, and other roads may also be closed or open only in convoy.

If you have little experience with winter driving, joining a guided tour is often both safer and easier. You can enjoy the experience without worrying about the road conditions. Tours with transport included are available to the North Cape plateau, for Northern Lights and for other activities.

If you still choose to drive yourself:

• – Make sure the car has studded tyres or good winter tyres. Rental cars usually have these in winter.
• – Check vegvesen.no/trafikk and yr.no before you drive, and be prepared for your plans to change.
• – Drive slowly and keep a safe distance. Braking distances are much longer on icy roads.
• – Always carry plenty of fuel or charge, warm clothes, food and drink in the car.
• – Never stop on the road to watch the Northern Lights or take photos.
• – Allow plenty of time, and don’t push on in bad weather.

Hiking to Knivskjellodden is generally not recommended during winter. The trail is long, exposed, and crosses open mountain terrain where conditions can become dangerous very quickly. Winter brings strong winds, ice, snow, darkness, and very limited visibility, making navigation difficult even for experienced hikers.

However, it may be possible if you are visiting with an experienced local guide who knows the terrain, understands winter conditions, and can ensure proper safety measures. This should only be done with a professional who is familiar with the area.

For most visitors, the trail should only be attempted during the snow-free season, typically from late spring to early autumn, and only in good weather.

The Northern Lights season in Nordkapp runs from about September to early April, when the nights are dark enough. You need three things: darkness, clear skies and some activity in the sky.

• Season: Aurora Autumn (September–November) often has milder weather and more open skies. During the Polar Night (late November–January) it is dark for most of the day, so you can see the aurora from early afternoon. In early Arctic Light (February–March) you can combine daytime snow landscapes with dark nights.
• Time of night: It often appears between 18:00 and 01:00, but it can show up whenever it is dark. Be patient and give it time.
• Weather: Coastal weather changes quickly, and clouds can clear in minutes. Check the cloud cover on yr.no and the aurora forecast on norway-lights.com.
• Where: Get away from the lights of Honningsvåg. Fishing villages and open areas on Magerøya give darker skies.
• Safety: Never stop on the road to watch the aurora. Park in proper parking areas, dress warmly and bring a headlamp.

There is no guarantee, but a few nights in Nordkapp during the season give you a good chance.

Magerøya offers wheelchair-accessible attractions and facilities. The North Cape Visitor Center is fully wheelchair accessible, with step-free access inside the building. In Honningsvåg, both the North Cape Museum and the Ocean Stories experience are also designed to accommodate wheelchair users.

You can check out lettreist.no to see which companies in Honningsvåg that have updated information about their accessibility.

If you plan to join an organized tour, we recommend contacting the tour operator in advance to confirm whether their vehicle has a ramp or lift, as accessibility varies between companies.

If a tour is not able to provide accessible transport, the local car rental company in Honningsvåg has a vehicle equipped with a wheelchair ramp available for booking. This can be a good solution for visiting the North Cape or exploring other parts of the island independently.

Yes, there is a pharmacy in the town center.

Opening hours are from 09:00 to 16:30 on weekdays, and 10:00 – 14:00 on Saturdays.

Yes. Accessible restrooms are available both in Honningsvåg and at the North Cape.

In Honningsvåg, there is a public accessible restroom located in Sjøgata, close to the town centre and easy to reach on foot.
The North Cape Visitor Center also has restroom facilities, located inside and outside the building.

Opening hours in Honningsvåg are often shorter than in larger cities, and many places close earlier outside the summer season.

• Grocery stores: Usually open from 07:00 to 23:00 on weekdays, and until from 08:00 to 22:00 on Saturdays.
• Other shops (clothing, sports and similar): Usually open around 09:00–16:00 on weekdays, with shorter hours on Saturdays, often from 10:00 to 15:00.
• Sundays and public holidays: Most shops in Norway are closed on Sundays and public holidays, such as Easter, 17 May and Christmas. Plan ahead and shop on Saturday if you need food for Sunday.
• Alcohol sales: Alcoholic beverages up to 4,7% can be bought in grocery stores, but only until 20:00 on weekdays and 18:00 on Saturdays. Wine and spirits are only sold at Vinmonopolet, the state-owned liquor store, which are open 11:00 – 17:00 from Tuesday to Friday, and 11:00 – 16:00 on Saturday.

Opening hours can change, so check the store’s own website

Call 110 for fire department.

Call 112 for police.

Call 113 for ambulance.

For urgent medical help, call 113. Local health services are available through the Nordkapp municipality.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Cash is rarely needed, you can find the ATM right next to the Tourist information if needed.

The currency is Norwegian Kroner (NOK).

The Royal North Cape Club is currently on pause. We’re using this time to develop a more modern system and rethink the concept behind the club, so that it better reflects today’s North Cape experience. We look forward to sharing more details as the new version takes shape — thank you for your patience in the meantime!