Nordkapp, Norway: The Ultimate Guide to the Northernmost Point of Europe

Perched at the edge of the world, Nordkapp (North Cape) is one of the most awe-inspiring travel destinations in Norway. Located on Magerøya Island in the Finnmark region of northern Norway, Nordkapp is famed for being the northernmost point of mainland Europe accessible by car. Towering cliffs, endless ocean views, and ethereal Arctic light make Nordkapp a bucket-list destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
 

In this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your unforgettable journey to Nordkapp—from things to do and when to visit, to how to get there, local wildlife, and insider travel tips.

📍 Where is Nordkapp?

Nordkapp lies at 71°10′21″N, putting it well above the Arctic Circle. It sits on the northern coast of Magerøya Island, facing the frigid waters of the Barents Sea. While technically not the absolute northernmost point in Europe (that title goes to Knivskjellodden, a nearby point accessible only by foot), Nordkapp is the most popular and accessible viewpoint, with a dramatic cliff rising 307 meters (1,007 feet) above the ocean.

The closest town is Honningsvåg, which serves as a base for most visitors.

🌅 Why Visit Nordkapp?

1. See the Midnight Sun

From mid-May to late July, the sun never sets, bathing Nordkapp in golden Arctic light 24 hours a day. The sheer cliffs and open sea offer some of the most spectacular sunset-like views you’ll ever experience—except the sun never dips below the horizon.

2. Chase the Northern Lights

From September to March, Nordkapp becomes a prime spot to witness the aurora borealis—shimmering curtains of green, pink, and purple light dancing across the Arctic sky.

3. Stand at the Edge of Europe

There’s something deeply symbolic about standing on the cliff at Nordkapp, staring into the Arctic Ocean, with nothing but water between you and the North Pole.

4. Experience Remote Arctic Beauty

Nordkapp offers a raw, windswept landscape of tundra, fjords, and rugged coastlines. The environment is extreme, but uniquely beautiful, changing dramatically with the seasons.

🧭 Top Things to Do in Nordkapp

1. Visit the Nordkapp Plateau and Globe Monument

This iconic steel globe marks the symbolic “top of Europe” and is a must-visit photo spot. The viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Barents Sea and is particularly stunning during the midnight sun or northern lights.

2. Explore the Nordkapp Hall (Nordkapphallen)

This visitor center, built directly into the cliffside, offers:

A 180° panoramic film about Nordkapp across the seasons

Historical exhibits

A chapel and memorials

Gift shop and café

Postal station with exclusive Nordkapp stamps

3. Hike to Knivskjellodden

Want to reach the true northernmost point of mainland Europe? Hike the 9-kilometer trail to Knivskjellodden, which juts 1.5 km further north than Nordkapp.

Tip: The hike is challenging and takes about 5–6 hours round trip. Proper gear is essential.

4. Bird Watching at Gjesværstappan Nature Reserve

A short boat ride from nearby Gjesvær village brings you to dramatic bird cliffs teeming with puffins, sea eagles, kittiwakes, guillemots, and more.

5. Visit Honningsvåg

The main hub on Magerøya Island offers:

The Artico Ice Bar

Honningsvåg Church (the only building left standing after WWII)

Local seafood restaurants

The North Cape Museum

6. King’s Viewpoint (Kongens Utsikt)

This lesser-known viewpoint along the Nordkapp route offers fantastic photo opportunities without the crowds.

🐾 Arctic Wildlife Around Nordkapp

Despite the rugged terrain and harsh climate, Nordkapp is home to diverse wildlife:

Reindeer (often roaming freely near roads)

Puffins and seabirds along coastal cliffs

Sea eagles soaring overhead

Whales and seals (seasonally in nearby waters)

Arctic foxes (rare sightings)

📅 Best Time to Visit Nordkapp

🌞 Summer (May–August)

Experience the midnight sun

Warmer temperatures (5–15°C)

Ideal for hiking and road trips

Most attractions and accommodations open

❄️ Winter (November–March)

Polar night with 24-hour darkness (mid-November to late January)

Best chance for northern lights

Snowmobiling, ice fishing, and Arctic safaris

Fewer crowds but limited accessibility

🌄 Shoulder Seasons (April & September–October)

Quieter travel experience

Still possible to see the aurora in early autumn or late winter

Some facilities may be closed

🧳 What to Pack

Nordkapp weather is unpredictable year-round. Always be prepared for wind, cold, and sudden rain.

Essentials:

Warm, layered clothing

Waterproof and windproof outerwear

Gloves, hat, and thermal socks

Hiking boots (if trekking to Knivskjellodden)

Sunglasses and sunscreen (Arctic sun can be strong!)

Camera with spare batteries

🏨 Where to Stay Near Nordkapp

In Honningsvåg:

Scandic Bryggen – comfortable with sea views

Hotel Arran Nordkapp – sustainable and locally owned

The View Hotel – modern and panoramic vistas

Nordkapp Campsites:

Nordkapp Camping – basic but scenic, open seasonally

BaseCamp NorthCape – glamping and eco-lodging near the cliffs

🍽️ Where to Eat

Seafood lovers rejoice—fresh Arctic cod, king crab, and reindeer are local specialties.

Corner Restaurant (Honningsvåg) – traditional Norwegian dishes

Nordkapphallen Café – convenient stop at the visitor center

King Crab House – try local delicacies in a casual setting

🚗 How to Get to Nordkapp

By Car:

From Alta: 3.5–4 hours drive

From Tromsø: 9–10 hours drive

Drive along the E69 highway to reach Nordkapp—one of the world’s northernmost roads

By Air:

Nearest airport: Honningsvåg Airport (HVG)

Flights from Tromsø or Oslo with Widerøe

By Cruise:

Many Hurtigruten coastal cruises stop in Honningsvåg

Summer cruise lines offer excursions to Nordkapp

By Bus (Seasonal):

Summer bus services run from Honningsvåg to Nordkapp

Tour companies also offer guided trips

💡 Travel Tips for Nordkapp

Nordkapp is part of the Sámi homeland – learn and respect their culture

Weather changes fast—always check forecasts before hiking

Entrance to the Nordkapp plateau is paid (includes visitor center access)

Book accommodations early during summer—spaces fill up quickly

In winter, roads may close temporarily due to snowstorms

📸 Best Photo Spots

The Globe Monument at Nordkapp

Knivskjellodden Trail Overlook

Gjesværstappan Bird Cliffs

Midnight Sun at the Nordkapp Plateau

Aurora Borealis over the Barents Sea

🛑 Sustainability & Responsible Tourism

Visiting such a remote and sensitive Arctic area comes with responsibility. Practice Leave No Trace principles:

Do not disturb reindeer or seabirds

Stick to marked trails

Support Sámi-run businesses and local communities

Don’t take natural souvenirs like rocks or antlers

Travel with eco-conscious operators when possible

📖 Fun Facts About Nordkapp

First visited by an English explorer, Richard Chancellor, in 1553

Once a key site in Arctic expeditions and WWII history

A popular destination for long-distance cyclists and motorcyclists

The Nordkapp tunnel, part of E69, is one of the world's northernmost undersea tunnels

🧭 Final Thoughts: Is Nordkapp Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Whether you're coming to chase the midnight sun, photograph the aurora, stand on Europe's edge, or connect with wild Arctic nature, Nordkapp delivers an experience like no other. It’s a place that captures the spirit of northern Norway—raw, majestic, and deeply humbling.

Nordkapp is not just a destination—it’s a journey.