Can I rent a car in Lofoten?
Car Rental in Lofoten:
Renting a car in Lofoten can be a great way to get around and explore the region at your own pace.
Note: If you're arriving by boat at Lofoten Harbor - Leknes, make sure to inform the rental company that you want the car delivered at the harbor, not the airport. When making your booking, you can specify "Lofoten Harbor - Leknes" and your ship's name in the "comment" or "flight number" section.
Yes, you can rent a car in Lofoten. There are several car rental companies located on the islands, and it's a popular option for exploring the area. It's a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability and to get the best price.
When renting a car in Lofoten, keep in mind that the roads can be narrow and winding, and there are often steep inclines and declines. It's important to drive carefully and to be aware of other drivers, especially during peak tourist season when the roads can be crowded.
It's important to note that during the winter season in Lofoten, driving conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice. To ensure your safety and prevent accidents, it's essential to drive cautiously and according to the conditions, taking into account your own driving abilities.
If you're not familiar with driving in snowy and icy conditions, it's a good idea to discuss this with your rental company and ask for their recommendations. They may offer additional equipment or suggest alternative transportation options to help you navigate the roads safely.
By taking the necessary precautions and being mindful of the weather and road conditions, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable trip in Lofoten, even during the winter season.
Also, note that some rental companies may have restrictions on where you can take the car. For example, they may not allow you to take the car on certain unpaved roads or to certain islands. Make sure to check with the rental company about any restrictions before booking.
What are the top things to do in Lofoten?
Lofoten offers a range of experiences, from outdoor adventures to cultural and culinary pursuits. Here are some of the top things to do in Lofoten:
Also check out: How to Explore the Lofoten Islands
Hiking: Lofoten is a hiker's paradise, with trails of varying difficulty levels that offer stunning views of the landscape.
Beaches: Lofoten is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Haukland Beach and Kvalvika Beach.
Whale watching: Take a boat trip to see whales, orcas, and other marine life in the surrounding waters.
Northern Lights: Lofoten is a great place to see the Northern Lights, especially during the winter months.
Fishing: Lofoten has a rich fishing history, and visitors can try their hand at fishing or visit a fisherman's village.
Museums and galleries: Learn about the local history and culture at the Lofoten Museum, the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum, and various art galleries.
Kayaking: Explore the beautiful fjords and coastline of Lofoten by kayak.
Food and drink: Sample the local cuisine, such as dried fish, stock fish, and Arctic char, and visit local breweries and distilleries.
Scenic drives: Take a scenic drive on the E10, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and fjords.
Photography: Lofoten is a photographer's dream, with endless opportunities to capture stunning landscapes and wildlife.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Lofoten. With its natural beauty and cultural heritage, Lofoten offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
Considering Renting a Car in Lofoten?
If you're gearing up for a journey to Lofoten and pondering the merits of renting a car, allow us to share our firsthand experience of navigating the Lofoten roads for the first time. We've gathered some insights that could prove invaluable to you.
Lofoten stands as an expansive and breathtaking region, offering a wealth of beauty to uncover. Yet, to truly immerse yourself in the Lofoten essence, you'll want to escape the bustling cities and venture into the serene countryside. And for this, having a rental vehicle at your disposal proves to be the ideal choice.
Once you venture beyond the urban centers in Lofoten, the public transportation network becomes notably limited. While the intercity train system effectively connects major cities within Lofoten, it's less equipped for exploration of the charming small towns and villages that dot the landscape. Bus options are present but come with similar limitations. While organized tours are an option in Lofoten, choosing to rent a car often emerges as the more economical and enjoyable choice, especially when traveling with family or friends.
"Discover Unbeatable Car Rental Offers in Lofoten from Global Agencies"
What side of the road do they drive on in Norway?
Before we get started, let’s first address the most common question.
Norway drives on the RIGHT side of the road.
And, if you are wondering what side the steering wheel is on, it’s on the left side.
Driving in Lofoten as a tourist
You do not need an international license to drive a rental car in Norway. More info here.
You can use a valid drivers license from your home country, as long as you’ve had your license for at least one year. The license must have a picture and be written in Roman Alphabet.
Norway car rentals have an age requirement. Typically 19 years old, but sometimes 21 years old. It’s best to check with the car rental company if you fall in this age category. Sometimes, if you are under 25 years old, the car rental company may include an additional young driver charge.
If you have multiple drivers, expect to pay an additional fee per driver.
You will need a credit card to rent a car in Norway.
Quick Tips for Driving in Norway
Trams always have the right of way. You pass trams on the right.
Pedestrians have the right of way at marked crossings.
Speed limit signs are in kilometers per hour – NOT miles per hour.
Unless otherwise marked, the speed limit is 50 km/r in developed areas (cities) and 80 km/h in rural areas.
Drivers and cyclists share the road. Both must abide by the same traffic rules.
There is no right-turn-on-red in Norway.
Do not drive in taxi and/or bus lanes.
Keep this in mind when you rent a car in Norway!
A few tips for when you rent a car in Lofoten:
Select a pick-up time that you are confident you can make. Don’t be late.
If you are running late, or your flight is delayed, make sure you call the car rental company. Let them know you’re late, but still coming, so they don’t give your vehicle to someone else.
When dropping off the vehicle, choose the latest option available. You can always drop-off the car early. But if you’re late, you will incur a hefty late fee. Or, you may even be charged an extra full day as penalty.
Pick-up and drop-off at the same location, if possible. It will be much cheaper. Sometimes, the additional fee for the “one way option” is double the price of the full rental cost.
There are fuel stations in most in urban areas in Lofoten.
Does your credit card provide vehicle insurance? If so, pay for the vehicle with that credit card. It’s a good practice to read the fine print and/or speak with someone to understand your coverage and the rules. Do this BEFORE you arrive in Norway.