Sortland – ‘The Blue City’
The colourful capital of Vesterålen, where blue-painted buildings meet Arctic waters and music fills the air.
Only declared a town in 1997, Sortland is the beating heart of the Vesterålen Archipelago. Known as Blåbyen, ‘The Blue City’, its buildings are painted in shades of blue and inscribed with a line or two of poetry.
Every autumn, the town taps it feet to the strains of jazz dancing along its shores, but whether you're here for the views, the hiking or the jazz festival vibes, Sortland is always worth a look.
Sortland: a blue town born from the sea and land
The first mention of Sortland appears in records from the late 14th century, but merchants began to settle on its shoreline in the 17th century. The town became a focal point for trade and transport, and when the Sortlandsbrua bridge was opened in 1975, it connected the islands of Langøya and Hinnøya, transforming the region's accessibility.
In the late 1990s, Sortland began turning blue – literally. Local artist Bjørn Elvenes daubed the walls of his home in shades of blue to make it a three-dimensional artwork. The mayor was inspired and it became a millennium goal to paint the town blue. Feelings among locals were mixed, but slowly the idea has been embraced and now dozens of buildings gleam against the green hills. Some have short verses inscribed on the walls written by local kids and artists, including one of Norway’s most famous authors, Lars Saabye Christensen.
Sortland’s creative streak extends to music, too. Every autumn, the town hosts Sortland Jazz Festival, drawing artists and audiences from across Norway. It's a reminder that in the far north, there’s always room for a splash of creativity and colour.
What is the weather like in Sortland?
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | Jul | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Min°C | -4 | -4 | -3 | -1 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 9 | 6 | 2 | -1 | -3 |
Max°C | 1 | 0 | -2 | 5 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 6 | 3 | 1 |
Visit Sortland with Hurtigruten
How long will I be in port?
Northbound
In port: 15 minutes
Southbound
In port: 30 minutes
As seen from the sea
As your ship glides into Sortland, it’s hard to miss those famous blue buildings. You soon understand why we call it den blå byen ved sundet (the blue town by the strait). You’ll also see Sortlandsbrua bridge spanning the sea, connecting the islands of Langøya and Hinnøya.
Then to the south of the dock, look for the white steeple of Sortland Church. Its predecessors have stood on, or near, this spot since the 14th century, but the current version dates from 1901.
Neighboring ports of call
Stokmarknes
The picturesque island community that inspired our pioneering founder over 130 years ago.
Risøyhamn
With approx. 200 inhabitants, this charming village is Hurtigruten's smallest port of call.