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10 Best Tours in Tromso, Norway in 2024

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Taking a Tromso tour is an easy way to explore this Norwegian city. Located 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Tromso is surrounded by islands, fjords, and the sea, so there are lots of things to see and do in the area.

It probably comes as no surprise that Northern Lights tours from Tromso are some of the most popular tours, particularly since Tromso is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world . Many tourists visit Tromso in order to catch a glimpse of the dancing aurora in the sky.

Of course, you’ll also find plenty of other Tromsø tour options. Whether you want to make friends with huskies, visit the nearby fjords, or go snowmobiling, there are excursions in Tromso that will match your interests. Keep reading to find out the best guided tours in Tromso to see wildlife, discover the area’s beautiful natural landscapes, embark on sporty adventures, and more.

10 best tours in Tromso

If you’re looking for things to do in Tromso , you won’t be disappointed. The city offers a wide variety of tours of many different types. In order to help you find the top ones, I’ve narrowed down the list to the 10 best tours in Tromso:

• Northern Lights tour
• Whale watching tour
• Fjord and wildlife tour
• Reindeer tour
• Midnight cruise
• Arctic nature tour
• Snowmobile tour
• Snowshoeing tour
• Tromso Ice Domes tour

1. Northern Lights tour , the most popular Tromso tour

If you visit Tromso in winter, you’ll most likely be coming to see the Northern Lights in Norway . Book this all-inclusive tour , and give yourself the best possible chance of seeing the aurora up close.

A minibus will pick you up from downtown Tromso and transport you far from the light pollution of the city center. Your guide will explain the science behind the aurora and share some local myths and stories.

As you’re scanning the skies for the Northern Lights, you’ll be able to cozy up around a bonfire and have some hotdogs, soup, marshmallows, and hot drinks, although the thermal suits provided to you on the tour should already keep you quite warm.

If you’re able to see the aurora, your guide will take portraits of you and the group and offer any advice you might need for taking your own photos. You can even borrow a tripod if you need one.

• Highlights : Aurora hunting with guide, hot drinks and snacks cooked over a campfire, personal aurora photos, transportation to and from Tromso
• Duration : 7 hours
• Number of participants : 21
• Price : $151+

We also have an article on the best Northern Lights tours in Tromso if you want to look at other options .

2. Whale Safari , the best Tromso tour

Booking a whale watching tour is a popular activity to do from November to early February, which is whale watching season in Tromso. This fjord cruise and whale safari boat tour is one of the best Tromso whale watching tours because, in addition to spotting marine wildlife, you get to admire the natural landscapes around Tromso.

As you sail through the fjords on a catamaran, a guide will explain all about local fishing culture and the local natural environment. You’ll also be able to watch presentations on whales and Arctic wildlife.

If you get lucky enough to spot any whales or orcas, you can take photos from the indoor or outdoor viewing decks while staying snug in the provided thermal winter suits. Hot coffee, tea, and biscuits are available for when you start to get a little hungry or thirsty.

• Highlights : Humpback whales, dolphins, orcas, porpoises; hot coffee, tea, and biscuits; transportation to and from Tromso
• Number of participants : 12/30/144 (depends on the size of boat)
• Price : $155+

Our article on the best whale watching tours in Tromso has plenty of other options if you need them .

3. Husky Dog Sledding Adventure , a great Tromso tour

Are you a dog lover who wants to make some new canine friends? Join this self-drive husky sledding tour , one of the best Tromso husky tours , and go on an exciting sledding adventure.

A minibus will pick you up from downtown Tromso and drive you to the husky kennel on the nearby island of Kvaløya. After you’ve suited up in the provided winter gear, which includes thermal suits, boots, socks, hats, and mittens, you’ll get to meet the huskies.

Before you embark on your sledding trip, your guide will provide a quick demonstration and then you’ll be taken to your sled and dog team. As you set off on the trail, with the chance to switch between being a passenger and a driver, the guide will accompany you along the way.

When you arrive back at the kennel, you’ll finish up your adventure with hot drinks and chocolate cake inside a Sami lavvo with a warm fireplace.

• Highlights : Self-drive husky sledding, meeting huskies, hot drinks and chocolate cake, transportation to and from Tromso
• Duration : 4 hours
• Number of participants : 16
• Price : $210+

4. Wildlife and Bird Fjord Cruise , one of the best excursions in Tromso

See Tromso and the surrounding area from a new perspective on this all-inclusive wildlife and bird fjord cruise . Admire the fjords and mountains as you sail on the Arctic Sea and keep an eye out for marine wildlife, such as puffins, seals, sea eagles, and otters.

As part of this Tromso boat tour , you’ll enjoy drinks, snacks, and a fish lunch. You can either stay inside the heated cabin or wrap up in one of the insulated bodysuits that are provided and head outside onto the deck. If you’re lucky, you may just see pilot whales and dolphins in the water and reindeer on the coast.

• Highlights : Wildlife spotting boat cruise; views of the fjords and mountains; beverages, snacks, and lunch; transportation to and from Tromso
• Duration : 5 hours
• Number of participants : 30
• Price : $142+

5. Reindeer Sledding with a Sami Guide , one of the most popular tours in Tromso

This Tromso reindeer tour is more than just a touristy meet-and-greet. Reindeer herding is an important part of Sami (an indigenous Scandinavian people) culture, so beyond personal interactions with these majestic animals, this reindeer sledding and feeding tour offers a valuable opportunity to learn more about the Sami way of life.

You’ll drive from the center of Tromso to the seaside reindeer camp, where your guide will take you on a snowy trek in a reindeer-pulled sled. When you arrive back at the camp, you’ll get the chance to see the reindeer up close and feed them lunch. Once you’ve had your fill of reindeer fun, head inside a lavvo (Sami tent) for a traditional meal.

As you’re circled around a campfire and enjoying coffee and snacks, your Sami guide will share stories and talk about Sami culture before singing some joiks (Sami songs).

• Highlights : Reindeer sledding and feeding; Sami storytelling; lunch, coffee, and snacks; transportation to and from Tromso
• Number of participants : 100
• Price : $152+

6. Midnight Cruise , one of the best Tromso tours

If you visit Tromso in summer , there’s no way you’ll be able to miss seeing the midnight sun, since it’s pretty impossible to overlook 24 hours of daylight. Still, why not bask in the sun on a Tromso boat tour ?

On this midnight cruise tour , you’ll journey through the fjords while enjoying views of mountains and a gorgeous, multi-colored sky along the way. You may even luck out and catch sight of sea eagles, eider ducks, or guillemots. Pick a spot in the heated indoor lounge or outside on the boat deck and help yourself to some hot drinks and snacks to stay energized.

• Highlights : Midnight sun boat cruise, drinks and snacks, transportation to and from Tromso
• Duration : 3 hours
• Number of participants : 25

7. Arctic Nature Tour , the best Tromso sightseeing tour

Explore the area around Tromso and see everything from stunning fjords and towering mountains to expansive beaches and quaint villages on this Arctic nature tour .

As part of this small-group Tromso fjord tour that’s limited to 15 people, your guide will show you the most scenic spots in Northern Norway and give you enough time to walk around and snap as many pictures as you’d like. You can even borrow a tripod to take your photos to the next level.

When it’s time for lunch, settle in and enjoy hot beverages, a sandwich, and cookies. Your guide will take plenty of pictures of you and the group to keep as mementos of your trip, and, best of all, at the end of the tour, you’ll get dropped off at your accommodation in Tromso.

• Highlights : Fjords, mountains, beaches, villages; sandwich, cookies, and hot beverages; transportation to and from Tromso with drop-off at your accommodation
• Number of participants : 15
• Price : $131+

8. Snowmobile Safari in the Lyngen Alps , the best Tromso snowmobile tour

If you’re in the mood for adventure, there’s nothing like this snowmobile safari in the Lyngen Alps . Not only will you have the chance to see amazing alpine scenery on this Tromsø tour , but you’ll also get to learn about Norwegian folklore and trolls.

You’ll take a bus from Tromso to Breivikeidet, where you’ll then catch a ferry to Svensby (the ferry ticket is included in the price of the tour). After you arrive at base camp, your guide will demonstrate how to use a snowmobile before you hop on for an exhilarating ride. Don’t forget to take pictures along the way!

When you return to base camp, you’ll be served a hot meal before you head back to Tromso.

• Highlights : Snowmobile tour of the Lyngen Alps; warm gear; hot lunch, hot beverages, and snack; transportation to and from Tromso
• Duration : 5 to 6.5 hours
• Number of participants : 20
• Price : $215+

9. Snowshoeing Tour , the best Tromso winter tour

Once it snows, it’s pretty difficult to go hiking in Tromso without snowshoes. There’s no need to let that stop you, though, especially if you take this small-group snowshoeing tour .

Head to the countryside and hike up a small, manageable mountain in snowshoes (or in just boots if there’s no snow). Enjoy the sweeping views and be on the lookout for hares, reindeer, eagles, and other wildlife.

Your Tromso tour guide will take photos of you on the hike, so you’ll never forget your sweaty trek to the top of a mountain in Norway! Once you reach the summit, recharge with a sandwich, pastry, and a hot drink before you head back down. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Tromso in winter .

• Highlights : Snowshoe hiking tour; souvenir photos; backpack with a homemade sandwich; pastry, water, and hot drinks; transportation to and from Tromso
• Number of participants : 8
• Price : $125+

10. Ice Domes with Overnight Stay , the best Tromso tour package

If you had a look at the best hotels in Tromso city center and want something a little different, stay in an ice igloo and enjoy private tours and meals with this Ice Domes overnight stay and tour package .

Not many Tromso tour packages include a private guided tour of the Tromso Ice Domes as well as a private snowshoe hunt for the Northern Lights. On top of that, this Tromso excursion includes a free drink at the Ice Domes’ ice bar and a warm dinner cooked over a campfire.

After a busy day of exploring, you’ll settle into your double room made of ice and snow and snuggle up under a reindeer skin. The next morning, you’ll be treated to a hearty breakfast and lunch before you’re transported back to Tromso.

• Highlights : Guided tour of the Tromso Ice Domes; snowshoe hunt for the Northern Lights; accommodation at Tromso Ice Domes; breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a drink at the ice bar; transportation to and from Tromso
• Duration : 1 day
• Number of participants : 2
• Price : $1,420+

We have a guide on where to stay in Tromso , but if you’re searching for the best Northern Lights hotels in Norway , take a look at our guide.

I hope you’ve found a Tromso tour or two to book for the next time you visit Tromso. Any of the tours in Tromso above are worth doing, and whichever one you decide to take, I’m sure you’ll enjoy exploring and learning more about the area.

Enjoy your time in Tromso!

Ascen Aynat

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“We had a very personal experience with our guide Lionel and he was very informative. He told us a lot about Tromso and the northern lights and we felt like we knew the city a lot better afterwards. Highly recommend!»

Julia from Unites States

Great guide, and we saw the northern lights! No light pollution

Darren from UK

OUR EXCURSIONS

Arctic Panorama - cable car excursion

Transfer to and from Tromsø city centre to the cable car start point  

Local guide throughout  

Hot drink and cinnabon

Cable car ticket

Northern lights -

Cable car excursion.

Transfer to and from Tromsø city centre to the cable car start point

Local guide throughout

Snacks included  

Hot drink included

Arctic Panorama - cable car transfer and ticket

Northern lights - cable car transfer and ticket

In the footsteps of Amundsen - city walk

Guided walk through Tromsø town

Ticket to the polar museum

City walk in Tromsø with beer tasting

Beer tasting - tasting tray in Ølhallen, one beer in HRC

Arctic flavours: From the city to the coast

A fishplate and a beer

Sami culture: Tromsø museum expedition

Transfer to the area where we museum is located.

Coffee or tea, and a cinnamon bun Ticket to the museum

Sommarøy island

Transfer to the island where we will explore the nature

Lunch and snack

Dog sledding excursion

Transfer to the area where we will dog sled

We provide a little snack upon arrival Hot drink included

Reindeer sledding excursion

Transfer to the area where we will reindeer sled

We provide a Sami meal upon arrival Hot drink included

Reindeer sledding - Lavvo overnight

Sleep on reindeer skin in a lavvo  

Tour by bus

Transfer by bus or minibus to the best spot in Tromsø to see the northern light

We provide you with a little a snack upon arrival

Transfer to and from Tromsø city centre to the cable car start point

We have more than 10 years of experience with excursions in Arctic Norway. Our managing director in Tromsø, Mr Knut Schreuder, is a local with extensive knowledge of Tromsø and the very best excursions it has to offer. Knut´s people skills and experience wihtin logistics makes every trip run like clockwork.  

Our guides really love their job and are always ready to assist you. With their solid backgrounds and local knowledge, they guarantee a safe and memorable stay with all the best of what Arctic Norway has to offer.  

The cable car runs from Solliveien in Tromsdalen up to the mountain ledge Storsteinen (421 m above sea level) in just four minutes. The two gondolas, known as Seal and Polar bear, each have a capacity of 28 passengers. From the viewing platform at the upper station, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding islands, mountains and fjords. At the fully licensed Fjellstua restaurant, you can have a delicious dinner based on local produce or select light meals from the café menu, while you take pleasure in the view. Welcome to the Tromsø Cable Car – proud supplier of views since 1961.  

Tromsø is the Gateway to the Arctic. It has the most Northern Lights in the world, 2 months of Midnight Sun, a lively, colourful downtown rich in Arctic history, and is surrounded by the drama of the Lyngen Alps, blue fjords and hundreds of islands. It is also a surprise mere 2000 kms from the North Pole!  

At a latitude of nearly 70 degrees north, four days of sailing from Bergen and a two-hour flight from Oslo, Murmansk or Longyearbyen, rests the capital of Northern Norway at the same latitude as Alaska and Siberia.  The gateway to the Arctic is situated between islands, fiords and mountain peaks in the most spectacular of Arctic scenary.  

A century ago, visitors were surprised to find culture, intellectual life and the current fashions so far north, and the city derived it´s other nickname, Paris of the North. That reputation lives on today. Visitors to Tromsø are charmed by the city’s patriotic, loud and obliging residents, by a historical, compact and characteristic town centre, and by a lively and active cultural scene all year round. They also come for the Northern Lights, Polar Nights and the Midnight Sun in the summer.  Tromsø´s excellent attractions also include the wildly varying weather and the ample opportunity for experience - based travel.

Email: [email protected] For any inquiries, questions or comments, please fill out the following form

Tour di Tromsø e dintorni

Tutta la norvegia racchiusa in una sola destinazione, la città artica di tromsø..

Richiedi preventivo

Parla con noi

Cosa visiterai

Maggiori informazioni in merito a orario e punto di ritrovo del primo/ultimo giorno verranno comunicate a seguito della prenotazione.

Cosa include

• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Sistemazione in hotel in camera doppia (altre opzioni disponibili)
• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Trattamento B&B
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• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Escursione Husky Safari con zuppa tipica inclusa
• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Escursione Caccia alle Aurore Boreali
• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Guida locale di lingua italiana nei giorni 2 e 3
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Non include

• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Viaggio per/da Tromsø (punto di ritrovo)
• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Bevande e pasti non indicati in programma
• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Escursioni opzionali (contattaci per verificare la disponibilità)
• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Extra personali e mance
• svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em] shrink-0 self-start items-center leading-[inherit] mr-[0.6em] max-h-[1em]"> Tutto quanto non espressamente indicato alla voce “Cosa include”

Cose importanti da sapere

Caratteristiche del viaggio

Informazioni generali sul viaggio

Corona norvegese (NOK)

Vaccinazioni

Non sono obbligatorie vaccinazioni.

svg]:h-[1em] [&>svg]:w-[1em]" style="transform:translateY(1px)"> Queste indicazioni hanno scopo puramente informativo; per confermare l'obbligatorietà di eventuali vaccinazioni, si raccomanda di consultare il proprio medico.

Documenti e visti

E' necessario il passaporto o carta d'identità, con validità residua di almeno 6 mesi al momento dell’ingresso nel Paese. Non è necessario il visto d'ingresso.

Numeri di emergenza

Polizia 112 Vigili del fuoco 110 PRONTO SOCCORSO/EMERGENZE SANITARIE MOLTO GRAVI: 113 in alternativa:116 - 117

Prese elettriche

Tipo C , F, L

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The Arctic is Calling

Immerse yourself in breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures. With gorgeous Arctic wilderness right outside the city, Tromso is the perfect destination for the holiday of your dreams.

This is what we came for!

This trip was one of the highlights of my stay in Norway. Beyond amazing! The lights were dancing; they covered the sky! It was like nothing I’ve ever seen in my life.

Amazing experience everyone was extremely nice. We are blessed to see eagles seals and even orcas! The whole crew made sure we could enjoy this natural show.

A must see. We did a combined tour and it was a great way to finish the day. Beautiful carvings and I will definitely be back for a sleepover.

Explore Tromso's Main Activities

Ice domes visit.

Treat yourself to the magical winter wonderland of Tromso Ice Domes Snow Sculpture Park. The snow and ice is carved out by professional ice carving artists with details lighting up in different, magical colours. ‍ Tromso Ice Domes is placed at our Wilderness Camp, and there are lots of other activities taking place. Whether you want to join a snowmobile safari, try dog sledding, visit the reindeer, go skiing, or take part in various Northern Lights tours- we have it all. ‍

Northern Lights Visit

The magical northern lights attracts people from all over the world, continuously season after season. Have you ever dreamed of experiencing them in person? The aurora frequently occurs over the magnetic poles, high in altitude. The area that surrounds Tromso sits directly on the center of a magnetic field, which means it is one of the best places in the world for aurora sightings! Join us at Camp Tamok, we will provide warm winter clothing and a thorough presentation about the Aurora Borealis and how to photograph this natural phenomenon. We will also serve a hot meal in a traditional North Norwegian setting around the open fire.  ‍

Whale Watching Safari on a high-speed catamaran

Our high-speed, modern catamaran brings you on an exhilarating journey to the heart of the whale’s feeding ground. The humpback and killer whales migrate to Northern Norway to feed on the Atlantic herring throughout the winter months. We’ll spend approximately 2.5 hours up close with the whales. On the way to the whales you can relax in our spacious lounge and enjoy the scenic view from our panoramic windows. Throughout the tour our knowledgeable guides offer insightful information about the whales and local history.

Northern Light Photo Cruise

snowmobiling, whale & arctic wildlife safari, reindeer sledding, cross-country skiing at aurora alps, arctic truck, dog sledding, northern lights chase by bus, tromso ice domes, whale & arctic wildlife safari, aurora dinner cruise, want to recieve more information about this, welcome to the top of the world.

You are invited to take part in the arctic adventure of your dreams. Explore a huge range of experience-based activities and create the holiday you’ve always dreamed of. Escape to the wilderness by snowmobile or let a team of huskies lead the way.

Go cross-country skiing at Aurora Alps. Join a whale safari and watch the majestic killer whales play in the waters. Enjoy spectacular views of the Northern Lights and have a traditional North Norwegian meal over the fire. Your dream, your choice – It’s all up to you.  

Paris of the North

Dubbed the Paris of the North, Tromso offers the best of both worlds – a vibrant city life and breathtaking nature sights . With cafés, coffee shops and restaurants on every corner you have plenty of options to try local delicacies like herring, whale, stockfish, cod tongue and reindeer.

Combine this with an epic arctic scenery and a huge range of adventurous activities and you’ll soon realize why Tromso is the perfect base for the holiday of your dreams.

Check out our activity categories

Follow the arctic dream.

Imagine a city set amongst impressive mountains and beautiful fjords with streets full of restaurants and shops. At the same time the arctic wilderness is just around the corner. In a matter of days you can experience a vibrant city life, gorgeous nature sights and go on a huge variety of different tours while the Northern Lights dance above you. Everything is set for experiencing a proper Norwegian holiday. Don’t let your arctic dream remain a thought. ‍ Bring your Arctic dream to life!

Tromso's Photo-Perfect Fjord Tour: Capture Breathtaking Moments

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+47 41442247

This tour is conducted by Arctic Explorers. Plunge into Norway’s pristine landscapes with Arctic Explorers, the pioneers of fjord adventures in Tromso. As you journey through these cinematic landscapes, each view is not just a sight but a heartfelt story, a moment frozen in time.

Source : Visit Tromsø-Region

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The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Tromso Itinerary

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Nestled amidst Norway’s northern wilderness, 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, you’ll find the city of Tromso. Captivating intrepid explorers with its ethereal landscapes and vibrant cultural centre. Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” this enchanting city is a true winter wonderland. Use this Tromso itinerary to plan your perfect Arctic adventure. Spend 2, 3 or 4 days in Tromso to discover the bustling energy of its city centre, tranquil snow-draped fjords, and vast, untamed wilderness. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Tromso?

The first thing you will want to do when planning your Arctic itinerary is decide how many days to spend in Tromso. Unfortunately, this question has no easy answer; it revolves around how many activities you want to do during your stay.

The possibilities are endless. To keep it simple, we have allocated one day to explore the city itself, and then any additional days are dedicated to local activities. 

So, if you only want to do 2 activities, you could fit them into 2 days in Tromso. But be warned, you are guaranteed to fall in love with this winter wonderland, so if possible, try to allocate more time to explore. 

With 3 days in Tromso, you will discover the city centre and rich culture and enjoy at least 3 or even 4 activities of your choosing. Most activities are 3 – 4 hours, so you can easily fit 2 into one day. 

If you are lucky enough to have a full 4 days in Tromso, or even longer, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the Arctic experience. You could squeeze in at least 6 activities in 4 days if you wanted to pack out your holiday or take 4 or 5 at a slower pace.

Some of these activities can be fairly physical, so taking the full 4 days will allow you to take time out in between to relax without feeling like you are missing out. 

The best time to visit Tromso is in the winter. Most of the activities available around the city rely on snow cover, making a winter trip ideal. The Northern lights are also at their most active around this time, so this would be your best chance to see them dancing across the sky in all their glory.

The winter also gives you the opportunity to experience Polar Night from November to January. You could visit during the summer, especially if you want to see the midnight sun, but hiking is the only activity readily available during the warmer months.  

Getting To & Around Tromso 

Once you see Tromso on a map, it may seem like getting there would be difficult. You have several options to reach Tromso; the quickest and easiest is by plane. Tromso has its own international airport, Tromsø Airport, Langnes, which is well-connected to major cities in Norway and some international destinations.

There are direct flights from Oslo , so this is the most popular way to reach this Arctic city, fly into Oslo and then take a connecting flight to Tromso. Oslo is a major airport with flights inbound from most major international airports. 

If you don’t want to fly, then there are several additional options to get to Tromso. While there’s no direct train connection to Tromso, you can take a train to Narvik, the closest train station to Tromso. From Narvik, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Tromso.

Some cruise ships and ferries include Tromsø in their itineraries, especially during the summer months. The Hurtigruten coastal ferry service also stops in Tromso, providing a scenic and unique way to reach the city.

If you’re already in Norway or a neighbouring country – for instance, exploring northern Sweden or Finnish Lapland — you can drive to Tromso.

Keep in mind that driving conditions can be challenging in Tromso in winter due to snow and ice, so it’s important to be prepared for the weather and road conditions.

If you are taking your own car on the road trip of a lifetime, make sure you have fitted winter tyres and have snow chains ready. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices for car hire in Tromso.

Once you have arrived for your trip to Tromso, getting around is quick and easy. Tromso city centre is relatively compact, making it a great place for walking. Most major attractions, shops, restaurants, and hotels are within walking distance of each other.

If your accommodation is on the outskirts, Tromso has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses that cover various parts of the city. The bus system is reliable, and you can buy tickets onboard or through mobile apps.

If you have a car, parking in Tromso can be expensive, so it’s best to park outside of the centre and walk or take the bus into the heart of the city. Most activity providers for a day trip offer a pickup and drop-off service from your hotel, so you don’t need to hire a car to make the most of this Tromso itinerary.

2, 3 to 4 Days in Tromso Itinerary

The trip of a lifetime awaits, this winter destination is pure magic. The colourful buildings, vibrant against the snowy landscape, the majestic fjord, and boats bobbing in the harbour. The city of Tromso is the perfect postcard for northern Norway.

Combine the city with the myriad of outdoor activities on offer, and you have a recipe for the perfect trip. It’s time to delve into this Arctic itinerary, the very best of Tromso in 2-4 days. 

Day 1 – Explore Tromso City

Tromso city .

Tromso’s city centre is a vibrant Arctic hub that seamlessly blends history with modernity. The iconic Storgata Street is the beating heart of the centre; here, you will find souvenir shops, local cafes, artisan producers and plenty of window shopping opportunities.

The city is compact, so you can explore the centre on foot. Take your time, strolling through the streets, taking in some of the unusual architecture. Don’t forget to wrap up warm; you’ll need a good winter coat, gloves, a hat and some sort of thermal layers. You can book a walking tour if you want to learn about the city from a local guide.

Arctic Cathedral 

Next, take a walk across the Tromso Bridge to reach The Arctic Cathedral. The bridge is 1km long, so it can take 15-20 minutes to make your way across, but it is worth it for the views along the way.

The cathedral stands as a striking masterpiece against the Arctic sky. Its contemporary, triangular design resembles an ice-bound cathedral. A wonder of architecture, the Arctic Cathedral is one of the most iconic landscapes in Tromso. You can enter and explore the interior for 55 NOK.

Polar Museum 

The Polar Museum is a captivating look into the world of Arctic exploration and survival. Housed in a historic warehouse, it recounts the daring expeditions of legendary explorers who braved the frozen unknown. 

Exhibits bring to life the stories of polar heroes across the ages, their challenges, and triumphs while also showcasing incredible artefacts. There is a large area dedicated to Roald Amundsen, the first person to travel to the North and South Poles as well as many other adventurers that headed out in search of the North Pole from Tromso.

Something that is worth noting, alongside the world-famous male explorers, the museum also delves into the lives of many female explorers, such as Monica Kristensen Solås and Liv Arnesen.

The museum’s displays also give you an insight into indigenous cultures and the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem. 

Polaria Arctic Experience Centre

Nestled on the shore, just outside of the city centre, the Polaria Arctic Experience Centre offers an immersive journey into the polar realms. Architecturally unique, its icy design mirrors the Arctic’s frozen landscapes surrounding the city. 

Within, you will discover interactive exhibits showcasing Arctic ecosystems, wildlife, and climate challenges. The centrepiece, an Arctic aquarium, housing bearded seals that gracefully glide through icy waters. Polaris also presents compelling short films capturing the essence of Arctic life.

Fjellheisen

Ascending from Tromso, the Fjellheisen cable car unveils a breathtaking panorama of the Arctic landscape high above the city. A brief ascent transports you to Storsteinen Mountain’s summit, where you will find far-reaching views across fjords, down to the city lights, and across to snow-cloaked peaks.

Day or night, this journey is like something out of a dreamscape, especially if you are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights gracing the sky. 

If you want to walk around at the top, you will need sturdy boots and crampons, as the terrain is very icy. The best views of the city are from the viewing platform, so there is no need to prepare for any hiking if you don’t want to. 

Sami cuisine may not be the most widely recognised, but it is worth embracing the local food during your stay. There is plenty to discover, some of which you may never have heard of before, a true culinary journey.

Local restaurants offer a taste of reindeer meat prepared in diverse ways, from tender roasts to savoury stews. Sample cured fish, such as the iconic ‘rakfisk,’ and indulgent desserts like ‘gáhkko’ – a sweet pastry infused with lingonberries. 

These dishes pay homage to centuries of Sami heritage, their connection with the land, and their ability to transform Arctic ingredients. Dining in Tromso’s Sami-inspired eateries is not only delicious, but it also deepens your appreciation for the indigenous traditions.

Day 2 – Dog Sledding & the Northern Lights

Dog sledding .

After spending the day in the city centre, it’s time to kick off the winter adventure activities. If you only have 2 days in Tromso, this is a must-do, hence why it is the first feature on our itinerary. 

Embarking on a dog sledding experience is an exhilarating immersion into the Arctic wilderness. Guided by the rhythmic harmony of eager huskies, you are whisked away across the snow-blanketed landscapes beneath the Nordic sky.

You can opt to take a self-drive tour where you are in charge of handling your sled or book a husky sledding guide such as this full-day tour. Husky guides share their passion and insights, which can definitely enhance the experience, but there is no experience quite like opting for self-drive.

This way, you get to drive the sledge yourself, taking turns with a partner. You head out in a small group with experienced mushers on hand to help if needed. It is exhilarating, and you learn so much along the way. Some of the daytime tours include a traditional Sami lunch in a traditional, heated tent.

The bond between humans and these remarkable animals spans the ages, and having the opportunity to experience this traditional way of traversing the icy tundra is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the best things to do in Tromso.

Northern Lights Tour

If there is one other essential tour on your trip to Norway, it’s the Aurora chasing Northern Lights tour such as this 7-hour tour or this minibus tour.

Unlike some of the other stationary Northern Lights watching tours you actually chase the lights all night long on a minibus – sometimes even dipping into neighbouring Finland or Sweden! 

Witnessing the cosmic wonder of the Aurora Borealis is an experience unlike any other. The sky dances with vibrant hues as ethereal curtains of green, pink, and purple paint the night canvas. 

It’s worth noting most of the late-night guided tours offer a meal around 10pm, so it may be worth packing a few snacks to keep you going until then. 

Day 3 – Fjords, Orcas & Reindeer

Fjord trip / orca watching.

Sailing through the fjords may sound like a summer activity, but taking a trip out onto the water such as on this full-day tour is one of the top things to do in Tromso in the winter. The whale-watching season runs from November to January, so if you are hoping to cruise alongside Orcas, this is the perfect time to visit. 

That first glimpse of the dorsal fin slicing through the waves is magical. These sleek giants arrive alongside your boat against a backdrop of snow-clad peaks.

If you are lucky, you could even see them breach up out of the water, excluding power and grace. Guided by marine experts, you learn about their behaviours, migrations, and the fragile balance of the Arctic ecosystem. 

If you are visiting outside of the whale watching months, don’t worry, you can still enjoy a boat ride through the icy depths to witness a variety of Arctic inhabitants such as dolphins, seals and majestic eagles. 

Reindeer Sledding

Most of the boating trips on the fjord take up the majority of the day, but that doesn’t mean your day has to end there. Visiting the traditional Sami reindeer herds is an activity that can be done day or night on several tours such as this half-day tour or this evening tour.

It’s important to understand the Sami culture and heritage and how you, as a tourist, can support their indigenous population. Visiting a Sami reindeer farm is a great way to immerse yourself in their culture and learn about local traditions.

After a walk around the Reindeer farm and a 20-minute sledding tour through the sparkling frosty landscape, the majority of the tour takes place in a Lavvu, which is a Sami tent. Here you will have a meal (typically Bido, a Reindeer stew), then experience Sami storytelling and Joiking (which is a traditional Sami song). 

This is the perfect activity to do at night, you are far away from the light pollution of the city centre, so it’s likely you will get to see the Northern Lights again whilst enjoying the rhythmic sound of the bells attached to the reindeer as they trot through the snow. If you have 3 days in Tromso, this is the perfect activity to end your trip. 

Day 4 – Tromso Ice Domes & Snow Activities

If you are lucky enough to have 4 days in Tromso, there are a few options for your last day, depending on how much of an adrenaline junkie you consider yourself to be. 

Whilst you may not usually include visiting a hotel on your itinerary, the Tromso Ice Domes is the exception. Working around the clock, a dedicated team built these magnificent domes from scratch over the course of 6 weeks.

Using large chunks of ice from a nearby river, each room is handcrafted into the ice, lasting the winter months and then melting away as the weather begins to warm up. There’s no doubt that this is one of the best places to visit in Tromso.

There are full-day tours available , whether you are staying in the hotel or not. Take a shuttle bus (1.5hr) from Tromso through the jaw-dropping Arctic landscapes, then take a guided tour to learn more about the icy hotel.

You can enjoy a drink at the bar and a bite to eat in the restaurant before heading back to Tromso. If you have the budget, you could spend the night in one of the Ice Dome’s rooms, but it is very expensive. 

Snowshoeing

Guided by the soft crunch of each step, weave through silent forests and across frozen expanses. If you are an avid hiker, this is an amazing way to experience nature in a unique way. Led by experienced guides, you learn about the Arctic’s delicate ecosystem and its resilient inhabitants. 

If you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast, you may want to hire your own snowshoes and head off into the wilderness without a guide, but for those of you that want the comfort and knowledge of local experts, several guided tours such as this half-day tour are available. 

Snowmobile Safari

At a slightly faster pace, our next option for day 4 is a snowmobile safari tour. Tromso is located on the outskirts of the Lyngen Alps, making it the perfect base for a full-day excursion into the wilderness. 

Guided by seasoned experts, you roar across snow-blanketed landscapes, feeling the thrill of speed in the heart of winter’s embrace. Additional waterproof snowsuits are provided to make sure you are dressed up, ready for the blasting of icy air.  

It is worth noting you can only hire a snowmobile if you have a full driver’s license. 

Cross country skiing 

Whether you are an experienced skier or not, you can strap on your ski boots and head out on a cross-country skiing adventure. Gliding along groomed trails, you become part of nature, the only sound being the swish of your skis.

With towering mountains and serene fjords as your backdrop, each stride reveals more of the Arctic’s untouched beauty. There are trails suitable for everyone around Tromso, but if you are a real beginner, there are several options for lessons such as this 3-hour lesson or this guided trip. 

Where to Stay in Tromso

Thon Hotel Polar – Located in the centre of Tromso, this hotel is perfect for mid-rage travellers visiting this northern Norwegian city. They have a number of hip rooms to choose from and there is breakfast available each morning. Click here to check availability

Scandic Ishavshotel – This 4-star hotel is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a high-end place to stay when visiting Tromso. They have a number of plush rooms to choose from along with breakfast and an on-site restaurant. Click here to check availability

Tromsø City Apartments – Those looking for a self-catering place to stay in Tromso will love these cool apartments in the centre of the city. There are a range of flats to choose from and all come fully equipped with all you may need during your stay. Click here to check availability

Tromso Activities Hostel – If you’re looking for a great budget option or if you’re travelling solo, then this hostel is an excellent choice. They offer both dorms and private rooms, good self-catering facilities and an excellent location for exploring the city. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tromso hotels!

An unforgettable adventure high up in the Arctic Circle. Tromso is the beating heart of Northern Norway, blending history and culture with wildlife and vast snow-covered landscapes. This really is a trip of a lifetime, with incredible experiences around every corner. There’s nowhere quite like it. 

Are you planning to visit Tromso? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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The Ultimate 3, 4 or 5 Days in Lofoten Itinerary

About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

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Tromso itinerary for 4 days: The perfect Tromso winter trip

Are you thinking about taking a winter trip to Tromsø and wondering how to plan your itinerary? Then you’ve come to the right place!

The enchanting city of Tromso in Northern Norway is a real winter wonderland and is often called the Capital of the Arctic. We spent 4 days in Tromso in December, in the middle of the Polar Night period, the Aurora Borealis season and the whale watching season. It was absolutely magical!

Below, I’m sharing my 4-day Tromso itinerary that allows you to experience the incredible beauty of the Arctic winter, complete with Northern Lights, snow-capped mountains, reindeer, orca sightings and husky sledding. 

At the bottom of this post, you’ll also find my recommendations on where to stay, what to do when the weather is bad and a map that gives you an overview of where the main sights on this Tromsø itinerary are located.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

How to get around

You don’t really need to rent a car when visiting Tromsø. The town itself is small and the main points of interest are within walking distance from each other or can easily be reached by public buses. 

Also, most of the classic Tromso winter activities have to be done as part of organized tours, meaning you can’t do them on your own. They usually include transportation to a location outside of the city and back. These are activities like reindeer and husky tours, whale watching tours, Sami tours, northern lights tours etc.

With that said, we did rent a car for one of the days of our Tromso itinerary to take a road trip outside of the town and explore the beautiful landscapes at our own pace. We really enjoyed it and can recommend doing the same but only if you’re confident in your ability to drive on icy roads.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to drive, you can book an organized tour that takes you to more or less the same places that we visited on our little road trip. I’m sharing more details about this in the itinerary below (see Day 2).

Another reason for renting a car would be if you want to go searching for the Northern Lights on your own. It probably won’t be cheaper than joining a Northern Lights tour though (unless you travel with a bigger group) and you would miss out on the expertise of the professional tour guides.

Good to know: From about November 21 to January 21, Tromsø experiences the Polar Night – a period when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon. However, this doesn’t mean there’s no daylight or that it’s dark all the time. From about 10am to 2pm, you can see beautiful colors of twilight in the sky so plan to be outside during these hours if you’re visiting during the Polar Night. Be sure to also read my post on visiting Tromsø in December to get a better idea of what it’s like to visit during this popular month.

Tromso itinerary: How to spend 4 days in Tromso in winter

Day 1: storsteinen, tromsø town & northern lights tour, storsteinen viewpoint.

On the first day of your Tromso itinerary, head to the viewpoint on Storsteinen Mountain (420m/1378ft) for an amazing panoramic view over Tromso. You can get to the foot of the mountain from the city by bus #26.

From there, the Storsteinen viewpoint can be reached in two ways – by taking the Fjellheisen cable car (what most people do) or by hiking up the mountainside along the Sherpatrappa (‘Sherpa stairs’) trail. The round-trip ticket for the cable car costs 415 NOK whereas hiking is free.

Since we love to hike, we decided to hike up and take the cable car back down. The hike was quite challenging since we were walking through thick snow but it was a fun experience nonetheless with some great views along the way. It took us under an hour to reach the top, where we were rewarded with a spectacular view of the city below us.

Besides the viewpoint, there’s also a cafe and several hiking trails on the top. We got there a bit late when it was already starting to get dark so we didn’t explore any of the trails.

Tromso town

After Storsteinen, spend the afternoon getting to know the town of Tromso. Visit the Arctic Cathedral (one of the most famous landmarks of Tromso), take in the views from Tromsø Harbour and stroll along Storgata, a lovely pedestrian street lined with cafes, restaurants and shops.

You can also visit the Polar Museum to learn about polar expeditions and life in the Arctic region or take a beer tour at Mack Brewery , the northernmost brewery in the world.

Northern Lights tour

In the evening, take a Northern Lights tour to (hopefully) see the magnificent Aurora Borealis dance in the night sky. Although Aurora sightings can never be guaranteed, the guides on these tours work hard to find the best locations each night and communicate with other guides to find clear skies.

We took this Northern Lights bus tour , which started at 6.30pm and finished around 1am. If you prefer a smaller group instead of a bus, you can book this tour .

Unfortunately, we only caught a faint glimpse of the Aurora that night but this is nothing to be blamed on the tour company. It’s nature – sometimes there simply isn’t enough solar activity or the sky is too cloudy.

We did end up seeing a fantastic Northern Lights display on our final night (see Day 4 of this itinerary). It was an awe-inspiring experience and truly a sight to remember!

Note: For a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights, you should head out every night to search for them, either with a tour or by yourself. For this reason, this Tromso winter itinerary includes outdoor activities on each of the four nights.

Day 2: Kvaløya, Sommarøy and DIY Northern Lights hunt

Arctic road trip.

On the second day of your trip, it’s time to take a road trip out of Tromsø to see some beautiful Arctic scenery. I recommend heading to Kvaløya and Sommarøy, two islands located west of Tromsø, which can be reached by driving (no ferry crossings needed).

To do that you can either rent a car and explore on your own like we did or join a tour that includes transport and a guide. We rented a car at Tromsø airport. Please only consider renting if you’re familiar with driving on snow and ice.

Otherwise, you can take this 5-hour small group tour with a minivan, where you’ll visit the most scenic spots on Kvaløya and Sommarøy while your guide shares their knowledge of the area. Lunch and professional photos are included. 

On these islands, you can expect to see snow-covered mountains, picturesque fjords, Arctic beaches and quaint fishing villages. If you’re lucky, you might even come across some wild reindeer. The main points of interest on Kvaløya are Ersfjordbotn and Grøtfjorden, whereas on the tiny island of Sommarøy, I recommend just driving around and taking in the charm.

Search for Northern Lights on your own

In the evening, I recommend going Northern Lights hunting again. If you rented a car and are keeping it for the evening, try to find a dark area away from light pollution on Ringvassøya, Kvaløya or Sommarøy islands. 

Otherwise, you can also look for them in Tromsø without a car but they will likely look a bit weaker because of the city lights nearby. The best spots to see Northern Lights in the town are Prestvannet Lake and Telegrafbukta Beach, both of which can be reached by walking or public buses from Tromsø center. We visited both of them but unfortunately, the Northern Lights didn’t show up that night.

The Storsteinen viewpoint is another recommended place to see the aurora but remember that this requires taking a cable car (which stops running at midnight) or hiking there in the dark.

Day 3: Whale watching & Northern Lights

Whale watching tour.

On day 3, wake up early and get ready for what’s probably going to be one of the coolest experiences of your Tromso trip – a whale watching tour. Every year from late October to late January, orcas, humpback whales and fin whales gather in the fjords at Skjervøy, northeast of Tromsø, to feed on herring.

The whale watching boat tours take you right into their feeding grounds, which means you’ll have very good chances of spotting the whales. The tours last for a full day as it takes several hours to reach the whale territory. You definitely won’t get bored though because the views of the Arctic scenery around the boat are amazing. 

We took the Silent Whale Watching tour by Brim Explorer and saw several pods of orcas, a few humpback whales and even a fin whale. If you’d like to book the same tour, use my discount code ‘smoothescape’ to get 5% off your booking.

It’s a bucket-list-worthy experience that should definitely be on your Tromso itinerary if you’re visiting during the whale season (late October to late January). 

Be sure to read my detailed blog post on whale watching in Tromso for all the information you need to plan your whale tour.

Note: If you’re visiting Tromso outside of the whale watching season, you can take an Arctic fjord cruise instead. Although you won’t see whales, you will see picturesque coastal landscapes, fjords, fishing villages and maybe even some eagles and harbor porpoises.

Look for Aurora Borealis

After the whale tour, grab some dinner and then head outside to search for the Northern Lights again. You can look for them on your own by going to one of the places in Tromso that I mentioned in the section about Day 2 or you can take another Northern Lights tour to increase your chances of seeing them.

Day 4: Dog sledding, reindeer & Sami camp

Dog sledding tour.

Kick off the last day of your Tromso trip with a husky sledding tour. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Tromso in winter and gets sold out months in advance so make sure to book your tour in time. 

You can either take a husky sled self-drive tour , which means that you will be the one controlling the sled or you can take a husky sled ride , where you’ll just be the passenger and a professional musher will do the ‘driving’. In either case, you’ll ride through beautiful frozen landscapes with a team of huskies and finish the tour with a traditional lunch.

Reindeer feeding and Sami culture tour

In the evening, round off your Tromso winter trip with one final tour – a visit to this Sami reindeer camp to learn about the Sami culture and meet a herd of 300 reindeer. 

The Sami are the indigenous people of Scandinavia who have a distinct culture, language and traditions. They are known as excellent reindeer herders and at this Sami camp, you can pet and feed their reindeer and go reindeer sledding. During the tour, the Sami people will also share stories about their culture and beliefs. The tour includes a traditional dinner served around a fire in a cozy Sami hut.

We loved everything about this tour (especially feeding the adorable friendly reindeer) but the absolute highlight of the evening was when the Northern Lights suddenly appeared in the sky.

We were in complete awe as we watched the vivid green lights dance above our heads. It was truly a one-of-a-kind experience and the perfect ending to our Tromso itinerary.

Where to stay in Tromso

The most convenient place to stay in Tromso is the center of the city. This way you’ll be just a short walk from all the restaurants, shops and tour departure points.

Keep in mind that winter (especially December) is the peak season for tourism in Tromso and hotels get sold out fast. I recommend booking your accommodation at least 3 months in advance if you’re visiting Tromso in winter.

MID-RANGE: Smarthotel Tromsø Situated in the center of Tromso, this is an unpretentious hotel with a contemporary design and a delicious breakfast. Considering the high price level of Tromso, this place offers great value for money.

LUXURY: Clarion Hotel The Edge This is the most modern and luxurious hotel in Tromso with an excellent location right by the harbor. The hotel has an on-site restaurant and Tromso’s only sky bar.

UNIQUE STAYS: Aera Panoramic Glass Lodge or Tromso Ice Domes The first one is a gorgeous cabin with glass walls and glass roof, perfect for watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. The second one is a hotel made entirely of ice! The Ice Domes experience also includes a snowshoe hike, husky sledding, a Northern Lights hunt and all meals.

What to do in Tromso when the weather is bad

Although people mostly visit Tromso for all the wonderful outdoor activities, sometimes the weather can let you down and you’ll just want to stay indoors instead. If that’s the case during your trip, here are some ideas for what to do in Tromso in bad weather:

• Relax in a spa – In Tromsøbadet , there are different types of heated pools, saunas and water attractions for kids. For something a bit more unusual, visit the Vulkana Arctic Spa boat or the small floating PUST Sauna.
• Explore Tromso’s museums – From the Polar Museum and the Arctic University Museum of Norway to the Troll Museum and Perspective Museum, there are plenty of museums to explore in the city.
• Taste local beer and spirits – You can take a brewery tour of Mack Brewery (the northernmost brewery in the world) and do a beer tasting at their bar Ølhallen. Or you can take this Northern spirits tasting tour that also includes Norwegian delicacies.
• Visit Tromso library – A nice place to hide from the cold weather. There’s a cafe, quiet areas, a kids’ area and board games that you can borrow.

Other places to include in your Tromso itinerary

There are lots of fun things to do and places to see near Tromso, so if you have more time to spend or you’re just looking to add other activities to your Tromso travel itinerary, here are my suggestions:

• See the ice sculptures at Tromso Ice Domes
• Go on a snowshoe hike
• Go snowmobiling at Camp Tamok
• Go winter sea kayaking and potentially see seals and eagles
• Visit Norway’s second-largest island Senja (we visited Senja in the summer and loved it!)
• If you have more days, visit the Lofoten Islands , an archipelago that has some of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen.

4-day Tromso itinerary map

On the interactive map below, you can find the main points of interest and the hotels I mentioned in this blog post. Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map for more details.

Tromso itinerary: Final thoughts

And that’s it – these were my recommendations on how to spend 4 days in Tromso. It’s a magical place to visit in the winter and offers so much to discover. Once you’ve experienced its Arctic charm and seen the beautiful wildlife and the Northern Lights, you’ll want to go back again!

If you have any questions about this Tromso winter itinerary, leave them in the comments section.

Don’t forget to check out my other Norway blog posts for more helpful travel tips:

• Whale safari in Tromso
• Why you should visit Tromso in December
• Travel guide to Senja Island
• 5-day Lofoten Islands itinerary
• How to take a campervan trip in Norway
• Most beautiful hikes in Lofoten
• Best beaches in Lofoten

Pin this Tromso winter itinerary!

Tromso in December: What to expect & how to plan your trip

Visiting Senja Island in Norway: A complete travel guide

Guide to whale watching in Tromso (& the most ethical way to do it)

The perfect Lofoten itinerary: 5 days on the Lofoten Islands

Reinebringen hike: The most famous view in Lofoten, Norway

10 best beaches in Lofoten, Norway’s Arctic paradise

Great article. I scrolled to day 4 just to see the Northern Lights photo. Amazing.

Thanks Alex! It sure was an amazing sight! 🙂

Great article and pretty photos. I like your coat! Do you have recommendations?

Than you Marion! What kind of recommendations are you looking for?

I am trying to decide what coat to purchase for an upcoming winter trip to Norway and Finland and wonder if you can recommend suitable options?

I recommend getting one of those puffy thigh-long down/feather jackets. Some popular brands for this kind of jackets are 66 North, Helly Hansen and North Face. The one I’m wearing in the photos in this post is from Tommy Hilfiger.

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29 Epic Things to Do in Tromsø, Norway

February 23, 2024 by Silvia 14 Comments

After living in Tromsø Norway for over two years, I thought it was about time I put together a guide for visiting Tromsø, including my favorite things to do in Tromsø, the best restaurants and bars in Tromsø, top Tromsø attractions, unique activities in Tromsø, and the best Tromsø day trips. And now that I’ve experienced every season in Tromsø, I can give you my best tips for the best things to do in Tromsø in winter, spring, summer, and autumn.

Tromsø Activities Hostel is a great option if you’re on a tight budget. And if you want your own apartment, this glass roof loft near the center looks incredible. I don’t recommend booking an Airbnb in Tromsø.

Top Tromsø Activities: 

• Small group northern lights tour
• Northern lights sailing excursion
• Fjord cruise with a sauna/jacuzzi on board
• Boat/RIB whale watching tour
• Arctic dog sledding excursion (or this dog sledding excursion 2 hours from Tromsø)
• Reindeer excursion
• Snowmobile tour

Tromsø car rental:  Tromsø is surrounded by incredible nature, but public transport is sparse so I recommend renting a car, if you can. You can compare prices and book your Tromsø car rental at autoeurope.com .

Packing for Tromsø: You can find my  summer packing guide for Norway here  and my  winter packing guide for Norway here . In general I would say focus on practical outdoors clothing – people dress very casually here, even when going out at night. Don’t forget some warm sweaters, even in the summer! 

And if you want to see the northern lights in Tromso, read my guide to the best northern lights tours in Tromsø here . 

Of all the cities in Norway Tromsø is definitely one of my favorites, and certainly worth the trip up north. 

Okay I’ve actually just finished writing this Tromø guide and I go into a lot of detail here. But I wanted to cover everything you could possibly need to know for your trip to Tromsø, because I really hope that you love your time here. Tromsø is such a special city and truly like nowhere else in Norway. So if you’re wondering what to do in Tromsø in winter or summer, this should definitely have you covered. 

And if you’re planning a bigger trip through Norway, I’ve also gathered all my best tips in two 95-page ebooks that cover my top recommendations for places to visit (both on and off the beaten path), the best times of year to visit, how long to visit for, the best accommodation choices, transportation, what to eat, what to pack, and tips for planning a Norway itinerary that you will love. You can purchase my Norway travel guides here . 

Table of Contents

The best time to visit Tromsø

I’ve divided this guide into things to do in Tromsø in any season, and then “winter” from October to March (which is northern lights season) and “summer” from April to September. 

Basically, if you want to see the northern lights in Tromsø, you should visit in autumn or winter, and if you want to go hiking or see the Midnight Sun, visit Tromsø in summer. 

What about springtime, you ask? To be honest, spring is not a great time to visit Tromsø. April is definitely my least favorite month here – the northern lights are gone, but there’s too much snow in the mountains to go hiking. And it’s wet, slushy snow too, so not even that great for skiing. 

Tromsø weather varies a lot. Some winters we get tons of snow, while other winters we get rain as well, when the temperatures are higher. And some summers are cold and rainy, while I’ve also experienced really hot, sunny summer in Tromsø. Anything is possible here! 

When to see the northern lights in Tromsø

You can actually see the northern lights in Tromsø as early as mid/late August, and then by April it’s too light outside and night to see them. 

While most people think of the dead of winter as peak aurora time, my favorite time to watch for the northern lights is actually September and October, because there tends to be a lot of activity then, and the temperatures are much more comfortable for standing outside for a long time. Though you might also be surprised by the Tromsø temperature, because it doesn’t actually get that cold here. Often even in January the temperature in Tromsø doesn’t dip far below freezing. 

But if you want those snowy landscapes, then you should probably hold off your trip for January, February, or March, when there’s a higher chance of seeing snow in Tromsø. 

And then of course if you want to experience Christmas in Tromsø as well, then December is the perfect time to visit. We barely had any snow in Tromsø in December 2020 but then we had lots of snow in December 2021, so if you’re wishing for snow then maybe wait until January, as December can be hit or miss.

Christmas in Tromsø is super magical though, snow or no snow. I actually filmed a video a day last December, so if you want to see what Christmas in Tromsø is like then you can check out my Vlogmas playlist here . 

Polar night in Tromsø

Polar night is the period of winter where the sun doesn’t rise at all here, and in Tromsø polar night lasts from the 27th of November to the 15th of January.

While polar night might sound depressing, it’s actually a magical time of year. In fact just writing about it now I’m getting excited to experience my second polar night in Tromsø! Even on the darkest day there are still about three hours of beautiful blue light, and in early December and January there are beautiful pink skies – it’s like an extended sunrise/sunset, except the sun never quite makes an appearance. 

So don’t worry, if you’re visiting Tromsø during polar night you will still have several hours each day to see the sights. And then at night you can enjoy the northern lights!

Midnight Sun in Tromsø

The Midnight Sun is the period of summer when the sun never sets here, and in Tromsø the Midnight Sun lasts from the 18th of May to the 25th of July. And no, the Midnight Sun is not a separate sun, it just means that you can see our sun even at midnight. Apparently sometimes tourists are disappointed to find that it’s just the same old sun they can see at home. 

The best part of the Midnight Sun period is getting to go on mountain hikes in the middle of the night. There’s something so freeing about not having to worry about darkness setting in. 

I do recommend bringing a nice eye mask with you if you’ll be visiting during the Midnight Sun. Most hotels have blackout curtains, but some don’t. 

Getting to Tromsø

You can fly into Tromsø Airport (TOS), which is conveniently just a ten minute drive from the city center. It’s really easy to get from Tromsø Airport to the city center. You can either pick up your rental car at the airport, take a taxi, or go by bus.

You can check prices and availability for car rentals at autoeurope.com . 

There’s a taxi stand right outside arrivals, so you simply get in line and wait for your taxi to arrive. A taxi from Tromsø Airport to city center will cost about 250 NOK. 

If you want to take the bus the cheapest option is the Tromsø city bus, which costs around 25 NOK (depending on the time of day) and leaves just down the street from the airport. When you exit the airport turn left and walk a few steps and you’ll see a staircase  with a sign for parking. Walk down the stairs and then walk straight across the parking lot and you’ll find the bus stops – you’ll want to take the bus from the stop across the street.

You can take bus 40, 42, or 24 to the center. Taking the bus in Tromsø is super easy. If you put your destination in Google Maps and choose public transport, it will show you which buses to take. I always buy my bus ticket on the Tromsø Billett app , and then you can just enter through the back doors of the bus, but there’s also a ticket machine at the bus stop to buy a ticket. There’s a screen in the bus showing the upcoming stops, and then you can simply push the stop button by your seat when you want to get off. 

If you have a lot of luggage it might be easier to take the Tromsø Airport Express Bus , which costs 110 NOK for adults, or 180 NOK return, as the public bus doesn’t have much space for big suitcases.

There is no train line connecting to Tromsø, but you can get a bus here. If you’re visiting between December 1 – March 31 you can also travel around the north with the Arctic Route, which provides a combination of buses and trains between the top Arctic destinations in Norway, Sweden, and Finland. You can check the route schedules and book your tickets on the Arctic Route website .

Things to do in Tromsø in any season

Fjellheisen.

The one thing I tell everyone to do when visiting Tromsø is to take the Fjellheisen cable car, which offers great views of the city. Plus lots of hiking trails start here, or you could take the cable car up and then hike back down. There’s also an indoor cafe at the top with great views. 

I actually first went up here during polar night when it was totally dark and I thought it would be really boring, but the city lights were beautiful. And then if you’re lucky the northern lights might make an appearance. 

Tromsø sauna

Probably my second top recommendation for everyone visiting Tromsø is to try one of our saunas.

Pust is my favorite sauna in Tromsø. The sauna is in a wooden structure floating on the harbor with a beautiful view of the Arctic Cathedral, and since it’s right on the water you can easily run out for a few dips in the sea (it may sound awful, but I promise you will feel incredible afterwards!). You can book a time slot at Pust here .  I don’t know if it’s a glitch, but I noticed that you can only book a drop-in hour if you’re on the Norwegian version of the site. 

Or if you want a fancier sauna experience, the Vulkana spa boat has a sauna and hot tub on board. It’s only available for group bookings so this solo traveler hasn’t tried it, but it looks fun! 

A cheaper option if you aren’t traveling in a big group is this fjord cruise with a sauna/jacuzzi on board – it looks like only some of their boats have the sauna and jacuzzi, so I’d check with them when booking to make sure you get the right boat. 

Tromsø fjord cruises

One of the best things about Tromsø is the gorgeous surrounding landscape, and what better way to experience it than by boat? There are tons of fjord cruises on offer here, like this fjord cruise with a sauna/jacuzzi on board , this Arctic sailing safari ,  this Midnight Sun luxury catamaran trip (in summer) or this Northern Lights luxury catamaran trip (in winter) . 

The Arctic Cathedral

Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral was opened in 1965 and is probably Tromsø’s most famous landmark now. It’s actually in Tromsdalen on the mainland, so you’ll have to cross over the bridge from downtown Tromsø to go and see it. The view from the bridge is beautiful, but actually I don’t think you need to go all the way to the church if you don’t want to, unless you want to attend one of the many concerts held there. Personally I find the Arctic Cathedral most impressive from afar. 

Top Tromsø museum choices

I’m not a big fan of museums, but my mother is and she’s visited just about every museum in Tromsø, and her top recommendations are Perspektivet , the Polar Museum and the Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum . 

Downtown Tromsø

One of my favorite things to do in Tromsø is simply to wander around downtown. There are several cute shopping streets with colorful wooden buildings, and so many lovely cafes and restaurants to check out. 

There are also approximately one million souvenir shops here, so if you want to buy any Norwegian trinkets, or perhaps a Norwegian wool sweater, this is the place to do it. Actually if you do want some Norwegian wool, there’s a discount store next to the Intersport on Storgata that has tons of heavily discounted wool sweaters, socks, hats, mittens, etc.

Postludium and Edel are two really lovely vintage shops that are worth checking out as well. 

Tromsøbadet swimming pool center

Tromsøbadet is a big indoor swimming pool complex in Tromsø. It has several different swimming pools, jacuzzis, a sauna and steam room, and a heated outdoor pool area with beautiful views. I was a bit skeptical before visiting, but it’s actually well worth a visit! This can be a great rainy day activity or a fun option if you’re traveling with kids. 

Things to do in Tromsø in winter (roughly October to March)

Seeing the northern lights in tromsø.

I’ve written more about how to see the northern lights in Tromsø here , but basically your best bet will be to sign up for a tour that can chase clear skies – sometimes as far as Finland. The guides on these tours are experts at finding clear skies, giving you the best chance of seeing the northern lights, plus tours provide warm clothing and often photos of you under the northern lights. 

This seven hour tour  has excellent reviews, and  this minibus tour  also looks perfect. Or if you’re looking for something a bit different,  this northern lights sailing excursion  looks really fun.

And if your heart is truly set on seeing the northern lights, I’ve put together a complete ebook guide covering everything you  need to know to plan an epic northern lights trip. You can read more and purchase the ebook here . 

Tromsø whale watching tours

From roughly November through January, you can see humpback whales and killer whales, or orcas, near Tromsø. The time they arrive does vary each year, as well as where you can see them. Last winter they were off the coast of Skjervøy, which is a few hours by boat from Tromsø. But luckily for you there are several Tromsø whale safari companies that send boats out to see the whales, wherever they may be (though of course whale sightings cannot be guaranteed). 

I’ve been on several whale safaris, seeing humpback, sperm, and killer whales, and they’re always so exciting. If you’re wondering if whale tours are ethical, my friend Katie works as a marine mammal researcher and she’s written an article about how to choose ethical whale tours in Tromsø . 

If you want to get up close to the whales, you can take a tour on a RIB, which is a small inflatable boat that will float alongside the whales. If the whales are feeling friendly they often approach the RIB, and if not they will keep their distance. Riding on the RIB is super fun, but also super cold. You’ll be provided with heavy duty floatation suits to keep warm, but it’s still a chilly experience, so if you want to stay warm and toasty I would opt for a regular boat tour instead.

Also keep in mind that the sun doesn’t rise in Tromsø from the end of November until the end of January, so you’ll likely be watching the whales in the beautiful blue light that we get here during the daytime during polar night (like twilight). 

If you want to stay on a warm boat the entire time, then this silent whale watching tour on an electric boat is perfect, and lasts around eight hours (depending on where the whales are) for optimal whale sighting chances. Katie has taken this tour through Manawa and loved it. 

And if you’re feeling adventurous and want to see the whales up close, this boat/RIB whale watching tour takes you to the whales on a boat but then you switch to a RIB when you’re near the whales. This tour is run by Green Gold of Norway, who have a reputation as the most ethical whale tour company in Tromsø, as they are very respectful of the whales and cooperate directly with the whale researchers in the area. 

And if you’re feeling adventurous and want to see the whales up close, this boat/RIB whale watching tour takes you to the whales on a boat but then you switch to a RIB when you’re near the whales. 

Or if you want a full Arctic experience, this overnight whale lavvo trip includes a drive to Skjervøy, RIB tour to see the whales, and then an overnight stay in a glass roof lavvo where you can watch the northern lights. 

Dog sledding in Tromsø

I haven’t actually gone husky sledding in Tromsø yet, but I have on Senja , in Helgeland (twice), in Sweden , and on Svalbard , all of which were such fun experiences. And don’t worry, the huskies absolutely love it. I’ve written more about dog sledding in Norway here . 

For best chances of snow I would do this in January, February, or March, but sometimes there will be enough snow on the ground in November and December for husky sledding. And then if there isn’t enough snow, some companies will take out carts with wheels instead.

Usually you’ll be in pairs for this, with one person driving and one seated on the sled, though when I’ve traveled alone I’m usually given a sled for myself. The guides will teach you everything you need to know to drive the sleds – it’s definitely a workout (especially if you have to run uphill in the snow a bit) but certainly not difficult. I usually spend the entire time laughing because it’s so much fun. 

There are lots of different husky sledding tours offered from Tromsø which you can find here , but I recommend going with the Tromsø Wilderness Center. I know several people who have adopted retired huskies from the Wilderness Center and they offer really great care to the dogs when they aren’t working.

This husky excursion is perfect for beginners. Or that one is sold out this dog sledding excursion two hours from Tromsø might have availability. 

And if you aren’t interested in sledding but would like to meet the huskies, along with a chance to see the northern lights, you could take this evening husky northern lights tour . 

Or you could go all out with this incredible overnight northern lights glamping and dog sledding adventure . 

There’s a good chance that when you think of the Arctic and Tromsø reindeer come to mined. And yes, one of the fun things about living in Tromsø is that there are a lot of reindeer nearby! I’ll often see reindeer roaming the streets when I drive to the neighboring island of Kvaløya. 

Of course the best way to see some reindeer is to visit a reindeer camp. This reindeer excursion takes you just 30 minutes from the Tromsø center to feed reindeer, learn about Sami culture, and even take a short reindeer sleigh ride.

Or this reindeer tour takes you out to the gorgeous Lyngen Alps, which is a bit longer of a drive but one of the most beautiful areas outside of Tromsø. They also offer an evening reindeer sleigh ride where you’ll have the chance to see the northern lights. I’ve done the daytime tour and think it was definitely worth the 90 minute drive out to this Sami camp. Plus, Camp Tamok is farther inland so you’re more likely to have snow here. I visited in mid November when there was no snow in Tromsø, but plenty of snow here!  Read more about m y experience reindeer sledding here .

Cross-country skiing

It’s true that cross-country skiing is Norway’s national past time. It’s incredibly popular in Tromsø, and there are some easy trails for you to try it yourself, even as a beginner. 

You can rent cross-country skis at Tromsø Outdoor right downtown (I believe rentals are 340 kroner for adults), but if you’ve never been on cross-country skis before you might prefer to go with a guide instead. This guided cross-country skiing Tromsø tour includes all the equipment, a ski lesson, hot drinks, and lunch.

Alpine skiing

If you want to go downhill skiing near Tromsø, Tromsø Alpinpark is a short bus ride from the city center and offers equipment rentals.

Snowshoeing

Norwegians are all about skis, but I actually think snowshoes are really underrated! I miss hiking so much here during the winter, but on snowshoes you can still experience a bit of hiking, and I love the slow pace of snowshoeing – it’s very peaceful. You can also rent snowshoes at Tromsø Outdoor downtown. 

There are also several different snowshoeing tours on offer in Tromsø, which you can find here . 

Ice skating

If you come at the right time, when it’s cold enough for the lakes to freeze but not too snowy, then you’ll find most of Tromsø out iceskating on the weekends. You can rent ice skates downtown and join in the fun!

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is incredibly popular here, and it’s certainly a lot of fun. If you want to experience snowmobiling for yourself there are a bunch of snowmobile tours offered out of Tromsø here . 

Things to do in Tromsø in summer (roughly April to September)

While most people want to visit Tromsø to see the northern lights, the city is also well worth a visit in the summer as well. You won’t be able to see the northern lights, but you’ll be able to enjoy all of Tromsø’s gorgeous natural surroundings without worrying about snow and ice. Plus it will be light all the time!

The best thing about visiting Tromsø in the summer is being able to go on hikes. There are so many hiking options here, and if you’re coming earlier in the summer I would just ask around for where isn’t too snowy. 

Or if you’re feeling a bit lazy you could always take the Fjellheisen cable car and then hike around the top of the mountain and back down. You could also hike around Prestvannet , a beautiful lake in the center of Tromsø island, or do the full Lysløpa loop around the top of the island. 

Huskies aren’t just for sledding! The Wilderness Center offers a bunch of different husky visits and activities, like this husky hike , or if you want to stay closer to Tromsø, this husky hike trip from the cable car would be perfect.  

Or if you’re not into hiking, you could just the trainers at the Wilderness Center for some puppy training ! 

If you’re up for a real Arctic adventure, this multi-day sea kayaking trip looks absolutely epic, including camping overnight in yurts. 

Summer is a wonderful time to get out on the water. This Midnight Sun sailing trip looks dreamy, or this fjord sailing trip , or you could even do a fishing trip on a luxury catamaran . 

Telegrafbukta

If you’re here on a beautiful summer’s day, head down to Telegrafbukta, Tromsø’s southern beach, and lay out in the sun with the locals, or have a little picnic or barbecue. And if you’re brave you could go for a dip! 

Where to eat in Tromsø

Tromsø cafes.

Risø is a super cute cafes that is especially popular with coffee connoisseurs. They really know their coffee at Risø and have lots of different options. Just be aware that Risø is really popular and not that big, so it often fills up. But it’s worth stopping by to see if you can get a table! 

Smørtorget is my personal favorite cafe in Tromsø. It’s quite big so usually I can get a table easily, and I just love the space. In the front there’s a small antique shop, and the cafe itself is furnished with super cosy mismatched tables, sofas, and chairs. I always order their soup of the day for lunch, or if I’m there for coffee I’ll get a skolebrød – the best I’ve had in Tromsø!

Selfie is a beautiful little cafe downtown and has even won design awards. It actually reminds me bit of a café you’d find in Asia, not Norway. 

Tromsø restaurants

Tromsø has so many restaurants, so you definitely won’t go hungry here. I would check out Casa Inferno for pizza, Rå for sushi, Art Cafe for a cosy setting, Kystens Mathus , Fiskekompaniet and Full Steam for local specialties, and Burgr for burgers. And then if you want something a bit fancier, Mathallen and Smak are excellent. 

Where to go out in Tromsø

I’ve heard that Tromsø has more bars per capita than any other city in Norway and I’m not sure it’s true, but I would definitely believe it. For such a small city, Tromsø has a lot of places to go out.

For cosy bars my favorites are Bardus , Huken , and Amtmandens . And then if you’re into beer, Agenturet and Ølhallen both have lots of different beers on tap. 

And Storgata Camping is a popular nightlife place with indoor mini golf, karaoke, and lots of couches and tables to hang out.

Or if you want a truly special Tromsø experience, stop by Raketten , or “The Rocket,” which is Norway’s smallest bar! This little kiosk has sat in the town square since 1911 and is still a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. They serve drinks and hot dogs, including a special reindeer hot dog. You can enjoy them while seated around a fire pit next to the bar, and Siri (the bartender, not your phone) will happily tell you all about Raketten’s special history in Tromsø. 

There are so many more bars and pubs here though – just wander around downtown and you’ll find plenty of places to check out. 

Where to stay in Tromsø

Tromsø has so many wonderful hotels, so you’ll have lots of options here. I’ve stayed at the  Thon Hotel Polar  and loved it, and my parents stayed at the  Thon Hotel Tromsø  across the street, which is just as wonderful.

Everyone I’ve asked in Tromsø seems to agree that the nicest hotel in town is the Clarion Hotel The Edge . The Edge is right on the water and is home to Tromsø’s only sky bar. Though actually I think the Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora looks even nicer – they even have a jacuzzi on the roof! 

If you need more Tromsø accommodation tips, I’ve written a full guide to the best Tromsø hotels and accommodation here . 

The best Tromsø day trips

I’m actually not much of a city person, so when I moved to Tromsø I was most excited about the beautiful nature outside of the city. There are so many wonderful day trips you can do from Tromsø, or you could even spend a night or two outside of the city. 

All of these places are connected by bus, however if you can I definitely recommend renting a car so you can really get out and explore. The buses don’t always run very often, plus it’s so fun to explore on your own without having to stick to the bus routes.

Kvaløya is the island right next to Tromsø, connected by a bridge, and home to many of my favorite hikes in the area. This is also where I drive when I want to take northern lights photos in the winter. 

Kvaløya is the place to go if you want to see the prettiest Tromsø fjords. There are so many beautiful fjords and mountains around Kvaløya, so really I recommend driving down all the prettiest roads you find and simply exploring. Grøtfjorden has a beautiful beach that’s particularly popular in the summer and great place to camp.

Or if you want a really easy trip you could go to Ersfjorden and hike up Nattmålsfjellet and then stop by Bryggejentene , a super cute cafe/shop right on the fjord, for coffee or lunch afterwards. You can also get here by bus, but you will have to change buses once.

If you drive a bit farther down Kvaløya you’ll get to Sommarøy, home to the most beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise water. Sommarøy is especially beautiful on a sunny day and worth a visit any time of year. If you drive to Sommarøy you can then loop back around the other side of Kvaløya on your way back to Tromsø. 

You could also spend the night here at the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel , which has a bunch of accommodation options for different budgets, including gorgeous seaside cabins. They’re also pet friendly! I stayed here with my friend last autumn and we saw incredible northern lights from the hotel deck. 

If you’re willing to venture a bit farther, the Lyngen Alps are absolutely incredible. You can visit on a day trip, but if you have the time I’d really recommend spending a night or two here, as it’s so beautiful. 

I loved staying at this mini fjord cabin right by the Bivrost Arctic distillery, about a two hour drive from Tromsø. The route with the ferry is more scenic, but you could always take the ferry route on the way and then return the other way so you get to see all the different views. 

I’ve written more about things to do in Lyngen here , including my favorite hike. 

Or if you don’t want to drive you could take this Lyngen hiking tour , which includes the transfer from central Tromsø. 

And if you’re willing to drive farther, Senja is one of the most beautiful islands in Norway and absolutely worth a visit. Senja is about a three hour drive from Tromsø, so this would be a long day trip, but the drive is beautiful. If you can I’d really recommend spending a night or two here.

My favorite place to stay on Senja is the lighthouse at Norwegian Wild – I’ve stayed there twice now. They also have an Arctic Dome, which would be great if you’re visiting during the northern lights season. 

You can read my complete Senja travel guide here . 

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September 4, 2021 at 12:32 am

That all looks very enticing. What is it like for bugs (mosquitoes etc) up there in the summer months, either inland or around the coast ? Are they usually gone by late August or early September ? They enjoy my company in ways that I cannot appreciate…

Andrea says

January 29, 2022 at 2:06 pm

This is a fantastic article. I was seeking to get guidance for epic places in Norway, and I’m glad I found it. I’ll be sure to bookmark your blog so that I can read more of your excellent stuff.

Brandon Grayson Carmichael says

May 19, 2022 at 2:28 am

I love the article! One question though, I am planning to visit in October. How many of those winter activities can feasibly be done in October?

Silvia says

May 22, 2022 at 2:18 pm

If you click on the activity you can see on the booking page which months the activities are available in.

Dinah Mitchell says

September 13, 2022 at 10:03 pm

My partner and I have been thinking of getting married before the end of 2022. We will be in Tromso from Dec 16-21. What does one have to do to make it happen, or can you hire someone to assist you? Thank you, Dinah

January 27, 2023 at 7:10 pm

I’m about to finish up my stay in Tromso! It’s been a pleasure just to enjoy the snow instead of rain in the UK.

I should say that the bus from the airport to city center cost me 39 NOK one way via the app, which was super easy to use!

The weather has been a total mix — snow everyday and then some.. yucky frozen mix. The sun did come out for very brief periods of time and it was glorious. I can’t imagine how much more so when there is full sunshine above all the snow! I’m opting to skip the cable car as the skies aren’t clear enough to make it worth it. Perhaps next time!

I wouldn’t be deterred by weather in Tromso from going on a Northern Lights tour The guides are very keen to find them and will drive as far as necessary, whether toward even further northeast of Tromso (as some travelers told me) or to Finland (as mine did). Definitely bring something to listen to or read for the ride.

The Tromso Ice Domes should be noted that themes change every year; it’s a secret until the builders show up in October/November to start the work! The reindeer soup was so delicious that I had two bowls of it! The ice bar there is very neat (though no alochol — only blackcurrant juice).

Both the Tromso Museum and Polar Museum were very, very interesting but be aware that much of their permanent exhibitions — unless recently renovated — are in Norwegian. The Polar Museum did provide a pamphlet in English to help orient visitors with the stories in the exhibits.

I don’t know if it’s a leftover thing from COVID or short staff but restaurants will ask if you have reservations, even for lunch and if there are plenty of empty tables. The Full Steam asked me to come back in 2 hours but Fiskekompaniet seated me as soon the waiter double-checked with the computer.

I’ve booked for dinnear at Bardus for my last night (tomorrow) and am looking forward to it!

Brenda says

August 6, 2023 at 2:20 am

Hello! I feel I’m a bit late to the game in finding out you’ve moved from Mosjøen. I was disappointed at first as I recently learned my great grandma Gitta was from there & I dream of visiting. However, after reading your reasons, I totally get it…sometimes being singles feels like living on Noah’s Ark-haha! I’m hoping you’re enjoying a larger city & look forward to hearing of your new adventures there. (I signed up for updates now so will try to stay on top of Life in Norway better. Lol

August 27, 2023 at 11:37 am

I bought a 24 hour bus ticket and took Bus #42 from the cruise terminal on the outskirts of town to downtown where my hotel (Scandic Grand) was. Excellent breakfast buffet btw. I took bus 26 to ride the cable car, stopped at the Arctic Cathedral, jumped back on and went back downtown all before lunch. For bargain hunters and light eaters, the salad bar at the Eurospar is a good deal. August 27, 2023

August 27, 2023 at 11:39 am

And a idiot to the Ice Bar was fun for a drink.

August 27, 2023 at 11:40 am

That should be visit not idiot. Darn spellcheck.

August 31, 2023 at 3:48 pm

Thank you for the update on Tromso. My son and I are visiting Tromso in October and were looking for fun things to do on our visit.

We on debating on whether or not we should rent a car. Neither of us have ever driven on the right side of the road before and are a bit nervous about that and the road conditions in October. Any advice would be appreciated.

August 31, 2023 at 10:15 pm

I’m definitely loosing my mind. I posted about my concern for driving in Norway. I wrote right side of the road. I drive on the right side! I was told that in Norway they drive on the left side. I need to research things better before I ask dumb questions.🙄

September 2, 2023 at 9:13 am

Haha no worries. Driving can be overwhelming for people who don’t have experience driving in snow, because the snow and ice is never fully cleared from the roads, we often drive on top of it. But October is early enough in the season that there shouldn’t be much snow, so I think you’ll be fine!

forografwdrodze.pl says

December 14, 2023 at 12:39 am

Thanks for this list 🙂

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Best of Tromsø (Norway): Top Things to Do & Our Travel Tips

Hei Tromsø!  This likeable little city in the far north of Norway is really, truly a special destination . Tromsø is not only the largest city in the region by far, but is also surrounded by spectacular Arctic nature. Therefore, anyone traveling to Tromsø should look forward to enjoying the city’s urban flair right in the middle of the seclusion of Northern Norway. 

In this blog article we show what to expect in Tromsø. You find out which of Tromsø’s sights and highlights you shouldn’t miss. And we also let you in on our personal tips for your trip. 

1. Tromsø: Overview of initial travel tips & FAQs 

2. sights and highlights in tromsø: our tips, 3. eating & drinking: tips for cafés and restaurants in tromsø, 4. staying in tromsø: our hotel tip .

The rugged Arctic coast meets urban flair – welcome to Tromsø. Regardless of whether you are in Tromsø for just a few hours (perhaps because you are traveling on a Hurtigruten ship) or stay in the city for a few days, we promise you: Tromsø is one travel destination that you will not forget. 

Where is Tromsø and what can I expect?  

Tromsø is located in Northen Norway on the Arctic coast, more precisely almost 350 kilometres as the crow flies north of the Arctic Circle . That means: In summer the sun doesn’t go down – not even at night – and in winter it doesn’t come up for two months. (We will go more into the differences in times for travel soon.)

With a population of over 70,000, Tromsø is easily the largest city in Northern Norway . Some very special sights can be found in Tromsø, for example, the striking Arctic Cathedral. 

At the same time, the city is also a fantastic starting point for tours in the surrounding area. Northern lights expeditions are extremely popular (more about this later), but winter hiking trails, husky sled trips or kayak tours are also offered out of Tromsø. 

What is the best time to visit Tromsø?

You can visit Tromsø all year round, but it is especially popular to travel there during these two natural wonders: 

Midnight sun (summer)

The sun doesn’t go down between mid-May and mid-July . It shines down from the sky all 24 hours long. This very special phenomenon is called midnight sun. Believe us: The whole thing is pretty confusing for the body, but the lighting atmosphere is something very special.

You are out of luck if you are looking to find a proper summer with hot temperatures in Tromsø. July is the warmest month on average. Even then, you can look forward to daily highs of around 14 degrees Celsius. Our tip: You should also bring enough warm (and waterproof) clothes in summer. 

Northern lights (winter)

Seeing the northern lights once in your life – a wish that many hold dear. This could come true in Tromsø because the city is located in the heart of the so-called Aurora Oval. The possibility of seeing the northern lights is fairly large around Tromsø. 

Therefore, Tromsø is also a rightfully popular travel destination in the winter months. The northern light season usually runs from the end of September until the end of March . 

Polar nights also occur during this time – the opposite to midnight sun. The sun doesn’t come up for around two months (between the end of November and mid-January). Crazy, right? But don’t worry: It’s not pitch black for 24 hours, but often dusky. 

How much time should I plan for Tromsø?

Perhaps you are traveling on a Hurtigruten ship? Then the amount of time you spend in Tromsø will be more or less fixed. No worries: Tromsø is not particularly large, and you can also get a nice impression in a few hours . 

However, we warmly recommend staying at least two to three nights in Tromsø. The city flair is something quite special and there are also worthwhile destinations in the surrounding area. 

Getting there: How do I get to Tromsø?

Most of the flight connections to Tromsø go through Olso. There are very few direct flights from the German speaking area (and only available seasonally). 

The flight time from Oslo to Tromsø amounts to just under two hours – so not all that short considering that Oslo is already located quite far north. 

Once you land in Tromsø, it is very easy to get to the city centre. You can easily take the Airport Express Bus (‘Flybussen’), which goes to many destinations in the centre of Tromsø. The trip takes around 10 to 15 minutes. The price (one-way) amounts to around 110 NOK (approx. 10 euros). 

Getting around: The city centre is located on an island called Tromsøya . Everything in the city centre is within walking distance (conveniently also where most of the hotels are located) and it is quite cosy. You can reach the mainland via a striking bridge (Tromsøbrua). Sights such as Arctic Cathedral can be found here. 

Walk along the port of Tromsø

What is the best way to kick off your stay in Tromsø? Most definitely with a wander along the harbour. The many colourful wooden houses give the town a charm that we pretty much fell in love with from the first moment.  

The Hurtigen Ship arrives in the harbour daily at 2.15pm. It is worthwhile to be at the port at this time and marvel at the ship. 

Arctic Cathedral 

Over the bridge, after around a 20-minute walk, you can reach the most striking sight and the landmark of Tromsø , the Arctic Cathedral. The futuristic architecture of the Arctic Cathedral is reminiscent of an iceberg and is really an eye-catcher. 

On top of its bizarre construction, it is also the special glass mosaic inside the Arctic Cathedral that attracts attention. It decorates the altar wall and is considered one of the largest glass mosaics in Europe. 

There are regular midnight concerts performed on the stage of the Arctic Cathedral (price 200 NOK per person). These are especially popular with the guests of the southward bound Hurtigruten Ships because the concert times fit in well with the ships’ arrival and departure times. 

You can of course visit the Arctic Cathedral on your own accord. The entrance is 50 NOK per person. You can find more information, such as opening times, on their official website: Arctic Cathedral .

Taking the cable car to Storsteinen

One highlight you should not miss in Tromsø is the view from Storsteinen , Tromsø’s 421-metre-high mountain. You can quite easily reach the top in the cable car called Fjellheisen .

A gondola heads up every half hour – more often if necessary. The journey only takes 4 minutes. Once at the top, you will come to a visitor platform from which you can enjoy a fantastic view over Tromsø. For those who would like to move around a bit, you can find some trails up here on the plateau.  

Speaking of moving: If you are feeling sporty you can also walk up to the top of Storsteinen over the so-called Sherpa-Steps . Around 1,200 steps lead up to the mountain station of the cable car. 

The cable car begins on the mainland about a 10-minute walk away from the Arctic Cathedral – so it makes sense to combine the two sights. The price for the cable car (up and down) comes to 230 NOK per person. 

Guided tour of the Macks Ølbryggeri brewery 

You can find the Macks Brewery right in the centre of Tromsø. For a long time, this was known as the most northern brewery in the world , however the title was contested when the brewery’s production site was relocated. It doesn’t matter anyway: The in-house pub (‘Ølhallen’) is still very quaint and worth the visit. 

You can visit the brewery as part of a guided tour . In about an hour you learn about the history of the brewery as well as the brewing process. The tour ends with a small tasting. Of course, you can also just drop by for a beer without taking a tour. 

Tours:  Monday to Friday at 3:30pm  Duration:  1 hour Price:  200 NOK per person

Kayaking close to Tromsø

As we mentioned at the start, Tromsø is surrounded by dreamy nature. How about taking a kayak trip? Tromsøs neighbouring island, Håkøya , is a very popular destination for a kayak tour. 

Kayaking is of course a summer activity, but you need to plan for variable weather even at that time of year – which you can easily see from our photos. The view of the gigantic Norwegian fjords is still absolutely breathtakingly beautiful. 

Kayak tours take around three hours and are also suitable for beginners. If you are taking the Hurtigruten, you can book a tour there. 

Marvelling at the northern lights

Absolutely everyone would like to see: the polar lights – also called the northern lights in the northern hemisphere or the aurora borealis . 

The northern lights season lasts from the end of September until the end of March . Important: You should be aware that there is no guarantee of seeing the northern lights. The longer you stay in Tromsø, the greater the chance of having clear skies, good weather and therefore, northern lights. 

The lights usually appear between 5am and 2am in the night – sometime just for a short time, usually around 15 to 20 minutes. You can sometimes see them directly in Tromsø, but because the sky should be dark, it is better to drive into the surrounding area. 

We personally really recommend a guided tour run by professionals . There are bus tours where you really go ‘on the hunt’ for the lights. We would recommend above anything else that you keep an eye on the forecast (e.g. via an app) and then book a tour more spontaneously. A magical experience is taking a husky sled ride under the northern lights. So, in case you don’t see the northern lights, at least the trip wasn’t in vain. 

You can book the tour here: Husky sled rides under the northern lights

Risø Mat & Kaffeebar:  In this coffee bar you will find excellent coffee, small snacks and cake. Perfect for a break from sightseeing in the centre of Tromsø. 

Frø:  This small café exclusively serves vegan dishes. The coffee is also outstanding. Perfect for a healthy snack to keep you going. 

Fiskekompaniet:  You will find this chic and excellent fish restaurant at the port (with a view over the water). The prices are high, but so is the quality. 

Skirri in Kystens Mathus:  If you are looking for a modern restaurant with a very nice atmosphere and a view of the port, you’re in the right place. Most of the dishes on the menu are fish and meat dishes. 

We stayed in Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø and can really recommend it. The hotel has a very central location at the port of Tromsø – it hardly gets better! Practically all the sights of Tromsø are within walking distance from here. 

Some rooms have a view right over the sea. It is simply a dream to wake up to a view over the water. Talking about the rooms: They are modern and comfortably furnished. The breakfast is great, and the spa is a nice addition. 

Our conclusion: Top price-performance ratio! Unfortunately, the accommodation options in Tromsø don’t really comprise of hip boutique hotels, therefore we would definitely stay here again. 

You can book the hotel here:  Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø

Disclaimer: Invitation & Affiliate Links

We were invited by Hurtigruten to travel on this dream trip – thank you very much! Of course, this does not influence our honest opinions. 

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we receive a small commission. This does not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Tell us: Have you already been to Tromsø? How did you like it? Let us know your experiences. We look forward to your additional tips in the comments.

You might also be interested in this

Hurtigruten Trip: Route, Ships & our Tips for Norway’s Coast

Hurtigruten: The Best and Most Adventurous Excursions

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Cose da vedere a Tromsø: le 10 attrazioni più importanti

Alla scoperta della città artica per eccellenza in Norvegia

Sport outdoor, musica e panorami mozzafiato.

Se dovessi descrivere in tre parole, sceglierei queste tre per raccontare Tromsø , la cosiddetta capitale dell’Artico .

Tromsø è una città della Norvegia settentrionale , celebre per essere la “porta sull’Artico” e per essere un frizzante centro culturale.

In questo articolo ti parlerò delle migliori 10 cose da vedere a Tromsø , di cosa fare durante l’estate e durante l’inverno, di quali sono le migliori esperienze fai-da-te e i migliori tour organizzati, di come ammirare l’aurora boreale e le balene, di dove mangiare e dove dormire.

Insomma, se leggerai questa guida fino in fondo scoprirai tutto ciò che c’è da sapere su Tromsø, Norvegia .

Sei pronto? Iniziamo!

Viaggio a Tromsø: le 10 cose da fare e vedere

Indice degli argomenti

Aurora boreale

Tromsø è famosa per essere uno dei migliori posti al mondo per ammirare l’aurora boreale . Talvolta, questo fenomeno è così forte che riesci ad ammirarlo dal centro della città o addirittura dalla finestra del tuo hotel! Ma sarà sicuramente più intenso se ti dirigerai fuori dal centro, in cui non c’è quasi nessuna casa e soprattutto dove non c’è illuminazione artificiale .

Il periodo miglior e è sicuramente quello che va da metà novembre a metà gennaio (noto come “notte polare”, ossia quando il sole non supera l’orizzonte) ma hai comunque la possibilità di ammirarla anche dall’inizio di settembre all’inizio di aprile .

Ci sono molti modi per vivere l’aurora boreale a Tromsø , fra cui:

Tour dell’aurora boreale

Tromsø: inseguimento dell’aurora boreale

Durata: 5 ore

Si tratta di un tour organizzato in cui le possibilità di ammirare l’aurora aumentano drasticamente; le guide hanno una grande esperienza nella lettura delle previsioni del tempo e riescono a prevedere con anticipo il luogo preciso in cui il fenomeno è più intenso.

Tour fotografico dell’aurora boreale

Tromsø: tour fotografico dell’aurora boreale in 4×4 per piccoli gruppi

Se sei interessato a scattare delle foto sensazionali da postare su Instagram o da tenere sempre con te, allora dovresti proprio partecipare a questo tour; la guida ti aiuterà a impostare la tua fotocamera e ti insegnerà come scattare splendide foto dell’aurora boreale .

Escursione su slitta trainata da cani sotto l’aurora boreale

Tromsø: aurora boreale, esperienza con gli husky e cena

Durata: 4 ore

Se sei un amante dei cani , questa per te sarà un’esperienza mozzafiato. Immagina di scivolare attraverso la pacifica natura selvaggia circondata da fiordi e montagne, ascoltando il suono delle morbide zampe degli husky che corrono dolcemente sulla neve mentre l’aurora boreale danza sopra di te. Sensazionale, non trovi?

Tour in barca a vela sotto all’aurora boreale

Tromsø: tour a caccia dell’Aurora Boreale in barca

Il mix di crociera Tromsø sul fiordo e osservazione dell’aurora boreale è imbattibile! Ti troverai in mare all’interno di una barca calda e confortevole , ammirerai i fiordi, le montagne e…l’aurora! Si tratta di una delle esperienze più consigliate per ammirarla, dato che, trovandoti in mezzo al mare, non avrai alcuna illuminazione artificiale attorno.

Aurora boreale viaggio fai da te

Se hai intenzione di fare un’ escursione fai da te per ammirare l’ aurora , devi sapere che ci sono alcuni luoghi vicino al centro di Tromsø in cui potrai allontanarti dalla luce dei lampioni e osservare con più facilità l’aurora boreale . Fra questi, i migliori sono:

• Funivia Fjellheisen (di cui ti parlerò più avanti nell’articolo);
• Kvaloya (l’isola delle balene) : prendi il bus 42 per Storelv o Kaldfjord, o il bus 425 per Ersfjord.
• Prestvannet : appena sopra il centro di Tromsø (20 minuti a piedi in salita);
• Telegrafbukta Beach a Sydspissen : appena a sud del centro (40 minuti a piedi);

Sole di mezzanotte

Tromsø: tour in crociera per Sole di Mezzanotte

Durata: 3 ore

Dal 20 maggio al 22 luglio , Tromsø è inondata di luce polare perpetua , qualcosa difficile da comprendere fino a che non lo vedrai di persona.

E se da una parte, la lunga oscurità della notte polare ha un effetto negativo sulla salute delle persone, il sorgere del sole di mezzanotte ha un effetto edificante sull’umore di tutti.

Uno dei posti migliori per ammirare questo straordinario spettacolo naturale è la montagna di Storstein, a Tromsø : da qui puoi osservare il sole che si alza sopra l’orizzonte dietro la cima Soltindan sull’isola di Ringvassøy.

Avvistamento balene

Tromsø: avvistamento balene in catamarano ibrido-elettrico

Tra novembre e febbraio , diverse specie di balene, delfini e orche migrano nelle acque di Tromsø per nutrirsi di aringhe.

Quindi, se hai mai desiderato di ammirare dal vivo queste meravigliose creature marine che saltano o cacciano nel loro habitat naturale, le acque di Tromsø potrebbero rappresentare il luogo migliore per farlo.

I viaggi organizzati durano fra le 3 e le 7 ore e ne esistono di diversi tipi.

Mini crociera Tromsø sui fiordi

Tromsø: crociera sui fiordi con avifauna, pranzo e bevande

Durata: 8 ore

Vicino a Tromsø esistono diversi fiordi ; i più famosi sono Kaldfjorden, Balsfjorden, Ullsfjorden e Malangen.

Esistono parecchie crociere che ti porteranno ad ammirare questi corpi d’acqua incredibilmente belli, con partenza dal porto di Tromsø sulla Polar Queen o Fjord Queen.

Durante il tuo viaggio di 5/6 ore ti scorrerà davanti una classica scena polare, con montagne artiche innevate e sottili cascate; qui, potresti avvistare foche, renne e aquile di mare , e, se sarai fortunato, balene megattere e orche (soprattutto nel periodo compreso fra novembre e gennaio).

Potrai ammirare questo sensazionale paesaggio polare dal caldo tiepido della tua cabina, o, se non sei particolarmente freddoloso, salire sul ponte della barca ed osservare il panorama con il vento pungente sul viso .

Nella maggior parte di questi tour organizzati ti verranno forniti indumenti caldi e potrai gustare pesci artici , waffle norvegesi e bevande calde che ti accompagneranno per tutto il viaggio di ritorno.

Cattedrale Artica Tromsø

Fra le cose da vedere a Tromsø , certamente la “ Arctic Cathedral “, ovvero la Cattedrale dell’Artico. La chiesa di Tromsdalen, nota anche come Ishavskatedralen è stata inaugurata il 19 novembre 1965, e rappresenta uno dei luoghi più iconici della regione .

La cattedrale è il punto di riferimento principale della città , visibile anche dal Tromsø Sound.

L’ingresso principale sul lato Ovest è circondato da un’ampia facciata vetrata con una pronunciata croce .

Il fantastico mosaico di vetro sul lato orientale è stato aggiunto nel 1972. Il mosaico di vetro è una delle opere più importanti dell’artista Victor Sparre , e raffigura la mano di Dio da cui partono tre raggi di luce: uno attraverso Gesù, uno attraverso una donna e uno attraverso un uomo.

All’interno della Cattedrale Artica, durante il periodo 1 giugno – 15 agosto vengono organizzati concerti speciali tenuti da musicisti professionisti in occasione del sole di mezzanotte. In inverno, invece, si tengono concerti simili comunemente chiamati Concerti dell’Aurora Boreale.

• Orario estivo (1 giugno – 15 agosto): 09:00 – 19:00 (domenica 13-19)
• Orario invernale (16 agosto – 31 maggio): 14:00 – 18:00
• Prezzo del biglietto d’ingresso: 50 kr
• Prezzo del biglietto Concerto d’organo (durante l’estate): 90 kr
• Prezzo del biglietto Concerto del sole di mezzanotte / concerto dell’aurora boreale: 200 kr per gli adulti, 50 kr per i bambini (è possibile acquistare i biglietti all’ingresso della chiesa, contanti o carta di credito).
• Come arrivarci : è possibile raggiungere in macchina la funivia di Tromsdalen (5 min). C’è un parcheggio proprio accanto alla chiesa. Puoi anche attraversare il ponte per Tromsdalen (30 min, 2,5 km), in una passeggiata facile e panoramica. Un’altra alternativa è l’autobus (n. 20, 24, 26 o 28). Partono tutti vicino alla piazza principale.
• Da vedere nelle vicinanze : La Funivia

Funivia di Tromsø , Fjellheisen

Tromsø: biglietto per la funivia Arctic Panorama Fjellheisen

La funivia di Tromso , chiamata “Fjellheisen” in norvegese, è una vera icona di Tromsø !

Risale al 1961 ed è amata sia dalla gente del posto che dai turisti.

Il viaggio dura quattro minuti e in cima potrai godere di una vista mozzafiato dello stretto, dell’isola di Tromsøya e del ponte di Tromsø.

All’interno della stazione di arrivo, è presente una piattaforma panoramica all’aperto ed il bar Fjellstua Cafe, in cui potrai rilassarti gustando una birra ghiacciata, delle bevande calde (come caffè, the, cioccolata calda), torte, waffle norvegesi o un pasto leggero.

In estate le persone utilizzano la funivia per iniziare le escursioni al Tromsdalstinden di 1.238 metri e molti salgono durante la notte per assistere al sole di mezzanotte .

Da qui, è magico guardare l’aurora boreale danzare sopra la città in inverno, o vedere il sole di mezzanotte scintillare nel mare che circonda Tromso in estate .

Quindi un viaggio con la funivia è una delle migliori cose da fare a Tromsø durante tutto l’anno. Assicurati di portare vestiti caldi e resistenti al vento perché fa freddo anche nei mesi estivi .

Puoi fare un viaggio in funivia in autonomia oppure puoi prenotare un tour organizzato, in cui verrai accompagnato da un’entusiasta guida locale che ti racconterà tutto su Tromsø e la sua storia.

• Orario estivo (1 giugno – 31 luglio): 10:00 (10:00) – 24:00 tutti i giorni (caffè Fjellstua: 10:00 – 22:30)
• Orario invernale (1 agosto – 31 maggio): 10:00 – 23:00 tutti i giorni (caffè Fjellstua: 10:00 – 22:30)
• La funivia parte ogni mezz’ora , il viaggio dura 4 minuti a tratta
• Prezzo del biglietto : 150 kr solo andata adulto / 90 kr solo andata bambino (3-15 anni) / 390 kr solo andata famiglia (2 adulti + 2 bambini). 230 kr biglietto andata e ritorno adulto / 120 kr biglietto andata e ritorno bambino / 520 kr biglietto andata e ritorno famiglia.
• Come arrivarci : è possibile raggiungere in macchina la funivia di Tromsdalen (5 min). C’è un grande parcheggio ai piedi della funivia. Puoi anche attraversare il ponte per Tromsdalen (30 min, 2,5 km), in una semplice passeggiata in cui costeggerai la famosa cattedrale artica. Un’altra alternativa è l’autobus n. 26, che parte vicino alla piazza principale (Stortorget).
• Attrazioni nelle vicinanze : Cattedrale Artica, sulla strada per la funivia.

Giardino botanico di Tromsø

Gestito dal Museo dell’Università di Tromsø, il giardino botanico più a nord del mondo si trova su un’altura in posizione panoramica, con vista sulle montagne.

Il giardino è aperto da maggio a ottobre e ha una varietà di fiori polari e alpini, piante ed erbe, con specie diverse che fioriscono ogni mese.

All’interno del giardino botanico potrai ammirare piante che potresti non aver incontrato prima , come i fiori delle Isole Falkland e i papaveri blu himalayani del Tibet, che fioriscono alla fine di giugno e hanno steli alti un metro.

• Orario di apertura : aperto giorno e notte da maggio a ottobre. Puoi anche passeggiare all’interno del giardino di notte e goderti il sole di mezzanotte
• Prezzi dei biglietti : gratis
• Dove si trova : Il giardino si trova a sud-est del campus dell’Università di Tromsø, a Breivika.
• Come arrivarci : Puoi camminare dal centro di Tromso (impiega circa un’ora) oppure puoi prendere l’autobus n. 20, 33 o 42.

Museo Polare

Fondato nel 1978, esattamente 50 anni dopo la morte del leggendario esploratore Roald Amundsen , questo museo racconta la vita dei pionieri polari, dai cacciatori agli esploratori.

Incontrerai personaggi famosi come il navigatore olandese Willem Barentsz che scoprì l’arcipelago delle Svalbard nel XVI secolo e aprì la strada a una generazione di balenieri olandesi .

Imparerai anche a conoscere i cacciatori di pelli all’inizio del XX secolo , che trascorrevano interi inverni sulle isole Svalbard catturando orsi polari, renne e foche.

C’è una mostra dedicata proprio a Roald Amundsen , che fu il primo uomo a raggiungere il polo sud nel 1926 e divenne il primo a navigare il passaggio a nord-ovest dal 1903 al 1906.

• Orario di apertura estivo (15 giugno – 5 agosto): 09:00 – 18:00
• Orario invernale (1 gennaio – 14 giugno e 16 agosto – 31 dicembre): 11:00 – 17:00
• Chiuso : 1 maggio e 17 maggio
• Prezzo del biglietto : 70 kr adulti / 35 kr bambini (7-18 anni), i bambini sotto i 7 anni non pagano
• Come arrivarci : Il Polar Museum si trova nel centro di Tromsø
• Attrazioni nelle vicinanze : Skansen, la parte più antica di Tromso.

Polaria Troms

Polaria è l’acquario più a nord del mondo e una delle attrazioni di Tromso più famose.

Si trova all’interno di un edificio che sembra un enorme iceberg a testa in giù .

È stato aperto con uno scopo puramente scientifico e inizialmente ospitava mostre educative per bambini. Oggi, all’interno, c’è un cinema panoramico , un’area “Arctic Walkway” con display di attrezzature per l’esplorazione polare, animali imbalsamati e permafrost simulato , un acquario con granchi reali, merluzzi e pesci artici , e una piscina dove nuotano alcuni esemplari di foca barbuta.

Una delle esperienze più divertenti di Polaria, è il momento in cui i responsabili dell’acquario danno da mangiare alle foche (alle 12.30 e alle 15.30) e queste ultime fanno giochi e giravolte.

• Orario invernale / primaverile (1 gennaio – 16 maggio): 10:00 – 18:00
• Festa dell’indipendenza norvegese (17 maggio): 10:00 – 17:00
• Orario estivo (18 maggio – 31 agosto): 10:00 – 19:00
• Orario autunnale (1 settembre – 23 dicembre): 10:00 – 18:00
• Vigilia di Natale (24 dicembre): 10:00 – 16:00
• Natale (25 – 31 dicembre): 10:00 – 18:00
• Prezzo del biglietto : 175 kr adulti, 80 kr bambini (3-16 anni)
• Come arrivare : A pochi passi dal centro di Tromsø (5 min)

L’hotel di ghiaccio, Tromsø Ice Domes

Dormire in una cupola di ghiaccio è un’ esperienza unica da fare a Tromso . Inoltre, l’Ice Domes è uno dei migliori hotel di tutta la Norvegia da cui ammirare l’aurora boreale.

Situato a Tamokdalen, a 75 minuti di auto nell’entroterra da Tromso, l’unico e bellissimo Tromso Ice Domes merita una visita! E sì, le cupole sono interamente costruite con ghiaccio e neve, anche il bar, il ristorante e l’hotel!

Sebbene possa sembrare un luogo molto freddo, l’hotel fornirà tutte le attrezzature necessarie per farti sentire al caldo .

Se per qualche motivo non vuoi dormirvi, ti consiglio almeno di visitarlo . È uno dei luoghi più curiosi da visitare nei dintorni di Tromsø, in Norvegia.

Ogni edificio, il bar di ghiaccio, il cinema di ghiaccio, le camere di ghiaccio e il ristorante di ghiaccio, sono tutti progettati con temi della cultura Sami e dell’aurora boreale.

Le camere sono splendidamente decorate e illuminate da luci colorate e sculture di ghiaccio. Ti verrà offerta una bevanda analcolica gratuita presso il fantastico bar di ghiaccio e potrai acquistare altre bevande o pranzare/cenare nel fantastico ristorante di ghiaccio.

Tromsø Norvegia cosa vedere in inverno?

Durante la stagione invernale, i turisti visitano Tromsø per assistere all’incredibile aurora boreale che colora il cielo nelle buie notti dell’inverno artico.

Prima di tutto, occorre prepararsi al meglio per il viaggio. Le temperature medie della città sono da brividi . Per avere un termometro che segni qualche grado in più dello zero, occorre aspettare la stagione estiva. Durante autunno, inverno e primavera, infatti, la temperatura media è di circa 0 gradi centrigradi .

Cosa fare quindi in un viaggio invernale? Certamente la prima scelta sarà vedere l’Aurora Boreale ! (Per sapere come fotografarla al meglio: clicca qui ). Tromsø si trova esattamente a metà dell’ovale boreale, ovvero nella zona con la più alta probabilità di avvistamento della meraviglia atmosferica. Un’esperienza indimenticabile.

Un’altra attività tipicamente invernale che si può svolgere nella città norvegese, è provare un’escursione sulle slitte trainate dai cani . E perché non tentare anche un safari alla ricerca delle balene ? Ma potrebbe interessarti anche una gita in slitta con le renne con una guida autoctona Sami . Oltre alle attività in esterno, ti consiglio anche le tante soluzioni gastronomiche in città, dove potrai trovare gusti tipici e cucine nordiche rivisitate.

Visitare Tromsø in estate: cosa vedere?

In estate la città diventa mèta prediletta per essere una base per gli sport outdoor , e per godersi le lunghe notti con il sole di mezzanotte. Escursioni, pesca e arrampicata sono certamente le attività più gettonate, oltre alle gite sui fiordi e alle visite nei luoghi più particolari della zona.

Il centro città è semplice da visitare, per cui sicuramente potrai trovare grande ispirazione girovagando fra le sue stradine. Ma perché non approfittare della bella stagione per una crociera di 7 ore nei fiordi , con tanto di avvistamento delle balene?Sembra assurdo, ma a Tromsø c’è anche una frizzante vita estiva in spiaggia!

Presso la Telegrafbukta Beach , ad esempio, potrai provare a immergerti nelle acque gelide, con una splendida vista sulle montagne circostanti. Sempre in ottica di sport “dolce”, è possibile prenotare bici elettriche e a pedalata assistita per prendere parte alle escursioni che attraversano la zona circostante.

Per le famiglie, consigliata la visita a POLARIA , l’acquario artico. Uno dei due luoghi in Europa dove è possibile vedere la foca barbuta a distanza ravvicinata.

Oltre alle attività diurne, la città norvegese regala anche molte idee per la vita notturna. Festival, concerti e musica permeano questo angolo di Artico, per cui – tranne chiaramente quest’anno – sarà facile trovare nuovi spunti per la serata.

Cosa mangiare a Tromsø

Eccoci quindi alla più classica delle domande italiane: “ Ma cosa si mangia in Norvegia? “. Dal “ Restaurant Smak “, con un menù variegato a cadenza stagionale, all’ Arctandria , che propone principalmente pesce e pescato fresco, le opportunità gastronomiche di Tromsø sono molte.

Al Mathallen potrai gustare i piatti di carne e pesce stagionali di provenienza locale, ispirati alla tradizione culinaria della Norvegia settentrionale. Al “ Compagniet Restauration “, invece, potrai scoprire il ristorante più antico di Tromsø, situato in una vecchia casa di mercanti del 1837.

Cosa vedere in Norvegia: domande frequenti

Il periodo migliore per vedere l’aurora boreale è tra settembre e aprile , mentre quello migliore per l’avvistamento balene è tra novembre e gennaio . Per goderti il sole di mezzanotte e approfittare del clima più mite, dovresti andare a Tromsø nel periodo estivo (giugno-agosto). Se c’è un periodo in cui evitare di visitare Tromsø è da novembre a dicembre , per via del clima particolarmente severo. Per maggiori informazioni leggi la mia guida su quando visitare Tromsø .

La maggior parte delle persone trascorrono 3 giorni alla scoperta di Tromso, ma con un periodo così ristretto sarai costretto a vedere tutto in fretta e furia. Se vuoi godere con calma della città e delle sue attrazioni, considera di trascorrere almeno 5-6 giorni a Tromso . Sarà un viaggio molto più rilassante e divertente.

Le renne a Tromso sono un po’ ovunque. Tuttavia, il luogo migliore per osservarle è vicino all’Università e sulla vicina isola di Tromso Kvaloya (selvaggia), oltre a poterle osservare in tutto il centro città per scopi decorativi. Qui trovi una lista di escursioni organizzate con renne.

La maggior parte dei turisti decide di soggiornare a  Tromsoya , l’isola più grande e in cui si trova  il centro città , con la maggior parte dei  musei, ristoranti e attrazioni . Tuttavia, per godere appieno dell’aurora boreale potrebbe essere una buona idea quella di soggiornare a Kvaloya  (l’isola delle balene),  Sommaroy  e le  Alpi di Lyngen . Luoghi un po’ più distanti dal centro ma più liberi di inquinamento luminoso. Da qui, l’aurora boreale sarà uno spettacolo! Per maggiori informazioni sulle migliori aree in cui soggiornare leggi il mio articolo su dove dormire a Tromsø .

Leonardo Parigi

Osservatorio Artico © Tutti i diritti riservati

Congratulations 🥳 veramente per tutti gli articoli da Te descritti !

Grazie Emanuela!

Ciao Leonardo, ringraziandoti anticipatamente per il tempo che mi dedicherai. Ho letto l’articolo su: l’unico e bellissimo Tromso Ice Domes merita una visita!Gentilmente potresti aiutarmi dandomi delle notizie in più. Prezzi e come fare a prenotare GRAZIE sto organizzando un viaggio in auto da Torino, con mia moglie penso di essere a Tromso la prima / seconda settimana di ottobreGRAZIE: Si accettano suggerimenti, Attendo una tua risposta GRAZIE1000 ancora Gianpiero [email protected]

Ciao Leonardo, ringraziandoti anticipatamente per il tempo che mi dedicherai. Ho letto l’articolo su: l’unico e bellissimo Tromso Ice Domes merita una visita!Gentilmente potresti aiutarmi dandomi delle notizie in più. Prezzi e come fare a prenotare GRAZIE sto organizzando un viaggio in auto da Torino, con mia moglie penso di essere a Tromso la prima / seconda settimana di ottobreGRAZIE: Si accettano suggerimenti, Attendo una tua risposta GRAZIE1000 ancora Gianpiero attendo tue

Caro Gianpiero, prima di intraprendere il viaggio ti suggerisco di contattare Cristian Costa, fondatore di FRAMTours e residente a Tromsø, che è un nostro partner e che si occupa di organizzare tour guidati molto particolari nella zona! https://www.framtours.net/

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