Location & Transportation
When approaching the port, your ship will pass near the dramatic Moskenesstraumen, the powerful tidal current that flows between Moskenesøy and Vaerøy Islands – even celebrated by Edgar Allan Poe in “A Descent into the Maelström.”
Depending on your ship, you may be tendered to a pier situated halfway between Gravdal and Leknes – it’s only about a six-minute ride. At the Leknes pier, there’s a friendly gift and service shop offering general information, currency exchange, fishing gear rentals, souvenirs, postcards, stamps and post office services.
If you prefer to explore on your own, you can easily walk from the dock into Leknes (approximately 4 km), with amazing scenery along the way. Taxis are available if you’d rather not walk. Fun fact: this is the first port above the Arctic Circle, and many cruise lines celebrate with a Midnight Sun party!
Sightseeing
Leknes stands out in Lofoten as a town set slightly back from the sea, offering a different perspective from the typical fishing villages. While its modern town center may not have the traditional wooden charm you find elsewhere in Lofoten, the surrounding nature is simply breathtaking. You can enjoy views of towering mountains, dramatic cliffs, and expansive white sandy beaches.
A few nearby highlights include:
- Ballstad: One of Lofoten’s largest and most picturesque fishing villages, just a half-hour bus ride away.
- Mortsund: Known for its working fish factory, where cod is processed for various markets and traditional products like cod liver oil are made.
Don’t miss taking in the views of Leknes Havn, one of Norway’s most important harbors for cruise ships.
Tours & Excursions
Exploring Lofoten on your own can be challenging due to the single road that winds around the islands – meaning any trip out will have you returning the same way. If you prefer a hassle-free visit, consider booking an excursion through your cruise line.
Other popular options include:
- Shuttle to Ballstad: A quick trip to a charming fishing village for around 15 Euro.
- Bike Rentals: Available at the pier for about 21 Euro per day, perfect for a more active way to see the stunning landscapes.
Remember to check cancellation policies since Norwegian weather can be unpredictable, and an excursion under cloudy skies just isn’t the same.
Shopping
Shopping in Leknes offers a mix of local charm and modern convenience. While many shops accept Euros (and sometimes Dollars), the exchange rates can vary, so it’s wise to compare if you pay in a foreign currency.
A standout is a large mall located at the far end of town, which might look a bit out of place among the smaller wooden structures but offers a very nice supermarket and a variety of shops for souvenirs and everyday needs.
Dining
Though Leknes is a small town with fewer dining options than larger cities, you’ll still find several cozy cafes and local restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite in the mall’s food court or a traditional meal at a local eatery, fresh seafood and hearty Norwegian dishes are the norms here. I recommend sampling local specialties like freshly caught cod or other seafood dishes that highlight the best of Arctic cuisine.
Culture & Local Events
Visiting this port is not just about the scenery—the local culture adds extra flavor to your trip:
- Currency & Payments: Norway’s official currency is the Norwegian crown (kr), with 1 EUR roughly equal to 8 NOK. While most places accept major credit cards, many shops also take Euros, albeit with variable exchange rates. It’s a good idea to have some local cash on hand.
- Opening Hours & Holidays: Many smaller stores in Leknes close early on Saturdays (around 1–3 PM) and are generally closed on Sundays. Typical weekday hours are from 9 AM to 9 PM, with some variation on Saturdays.
- Local Events:
- The town is known for its lively Midnight Sun party – a must-experience if you’re visiting in the summer.
- In summer, enjoy the phenomenon of the midnight sun (from May 26 to July 17), while in winter, note that the sun does not rise from December 9 to January 4.
Safety & Awareness
- Always keep an eye on changing weather conditions, especially if you’re planning outdoor excursions.
- Dress appropriately for chilly, unpredictable weather.
- Local emergency number is 112.