Things To Do
in Fauske

Fauske is a small coastal town in Nordland, Norway, perched along the Skjerstadfjorden with dramatic mountain scenery. It serves as a gateway to the Salten region and its rugged landscapes. The town blends an industrial heritage with abundant outdoor recreation, from fjordside walks to winter sports.

Visitors encounter a friendly Northern Norwegian vibe, compact streets, and seasonal events that highlight local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Fauske
morning
:

Arrive in Fauske and check into your cozy accommodation. Take a stroll around the picturesque town, soaking in the charming atmosphere and stunning mountain views. Grab a light breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Norwegian pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the fascinating Fauske Mineral Park to learn about the area's unique geological history. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the tranquil landscapes, surrounded by lush greenery. Explore nearby hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and scenic vistas.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood dishes while enjoying views of the fjord. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront to experience the serene ambiance of Fauske at night. Conclude your day by relaxing at your accommodation and preparing for tomorrow's adventure.

day 2
Exploring the Landscapes
morning
:

Start your day with an early breakfast before heading out to explore the stunning nature around Fauske. Take a guided tour to Svartisen Glacier, where you'll marvel at the magnificent ice formations and deep blue crevices. Capture breathtaking photos of the glacier and its surrounding lush landscapes.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch by the lake, surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty. After lunch, engage in kayaking or fishing activities on the nearby fjord, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the waters. Observe local wildlife and perhaps catch a glimpse of playful seals.

evening
:

Head back to Fauske and unwind with a hearty meal at a traditional Norwegian restaurant. Try local specialties like reindeer meat or lamb stew, paired with seasonal sides. Spend your evening relaxing at a local pub, mingling with locals and enjoying regional brews.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-20
🛏️Hotel or guesthouse per night$90-150
🚆Public transport ticket$5-10 per ride
🛒Groceries (week approximate)$60-120
Coffee at cafe$3-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning fjord landscapes and easy access to nature
  • Friendly locals and compact town center
  • High safety standards and good infrastructure
  • Limited nightlife and shopping options compared to bigger cities
  • Weather can be unpredictable and windy
  • Some services are seasonal or limited outside peak times
  • "Hei" - Hello
  • "Takk" - Thank you
  • "Vær så snill" - Please
  • "Hvor er jeg?" - Where am I?
  • "Kan jeg få regningen?" - Can I have the bill?
  • "Snakker du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Fauske

Visit one of these nice places.

Skjerstadfjorden Waterfront

Sunrise or sunset over the fjord with fishing boats and colorful houses along the shore.

Fauske Church and Town Center

Classic Norwegian church with a white facade and surrounding green spaces; good for architectural photography.

Harbor at Dusk

Busy harbor with boats, piers, and reflections of lights in calm water.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fauske

Nordic coastal cuisine in Fauske emphasizes fresh seafood, hearty soups, and farm-to-table ingredients; expect simple, seasonal flavors that pair well with local berries and bread.

Fauske Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Skrei (winter cod)

Famous Arctic cod caught off the Norwegian coast, typically served grilled or poached with buttery potatoes.

Must-Try!

Fiskesuppe (fish soup)

Creamy seafood soup made with fresh fish, shellfish, and vegetables, a comforting favorite in colder months.

Grilled salmon with rye bread

Seasonal salmon prepared simply to highlight its rich flavor; often served with rye bread and fresh herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Harbor Fish Market

Seasonal seafood stalls by the fjord offering fresh catches and prepared seafood bites.

Local Seasonal Market

A pop-up market in the town center during summer months with berries, cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fauske experiences a maritime subarctic climate with mild summers and cold winters, influenced by the Norwegian Sea; expect frequent rain and wind year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Be on time for appointments and meals; Norwegians value punctuality.

Respect personal space

Maintain a comfortable distance when speaking and avoid loud conversations in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Norway is generally very safe for travelers. Keep your belongings secure in busy areas, follow weather alerts in winter, and be cautious on icy roads and trails; emergency numbers: 112 for police, 113 for medical, 110 for fire.

Tipping in Fauske

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory in Norway; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip in restaurants is appreciated but not expected.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is still available but less used in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days with the midnight sun near the far north; ideal for outdoor hiking, lake swims, and long coastal walks.

Winter

Cold with snow and possible polar nights; good for Northern Lights viewing, cozy cafes, and snow sports.

Spring/Fall

Transitional seasons with milder temperatures, winds from the fjord, and changing colors; great for photography and light hiking.

Nightlife Guide

Fauske at Night

In a small town like Fauske, nightlife is low-key: cozy pubs, a few cafés with evening live music in season, and seasonal events; expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere rather than a club scene.

Hiking in Fauske

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Skjerstadfjord View Trail

Coastal trail with fjord views and accessibility for most levels.

Mountain Lookout Trail

Steep but rewarding hike to a panoramic summit near the town.

Forest and Lakes Trail

Gentle loops through forests with lakes and wildlife opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Fauske by plane.

Bodø Airport (BOO)

The closest major airport with domestic and some international connections; about 1–1.5 hours by car.

Harstad/Narvik Evenes Airport (EVE)

A regional airport serving Northern Norway; options exist for travel to the area though it requires longer travel time.

Trondheim Airport (TRD)

A larger airport farther away with domestic connections; useful for longer itineraries via Oslo.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fauske is moderately walkable within the town center, with compact streets, waterfront paths, and easy access to services; longer trips may require a car or bus.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly Norwegian, aging population with families and long-time residents; small but diverse community.

Seasonal workers and students

Temporary residents who come for work in industries and education institutions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular at community clubs and local teams.

Cross-country skiing

A common winter activity across the region.

Fishing

Both freshwater and coastal fishing are popular.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally calm in Fauske; E6 provides the main north-south route; rail service runs on the Nordland Line; winter driving can be challenging with snow and ice; public transport includes buses and trains serving the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fauske.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose busy-on-season vegetables, seasonal salads, and dairy-based dishes; many places can adapt meals—ask for vegetarian options.

Gluten-free

Many places offer gluten-free bread and pasta; ask about cross-contamination for seafood dishes and sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Norway offers universal healthcare; in Fauske you have access to primary care clinics; for specialized services, Bodø or Tromsø hospitals may be used; carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable; in emergency dial 112.

Discover Norway

Read more in our Norway 2025 Travel Guide.

Norway Travel Guide