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25 Things to Do in Tromso, Norway + Map

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There are plenty of  things to do in Tromso,  regardless of when you visit this city in northern Norway. Although Tromso is best known as one of the world’s top Northern Lights destinations , this city is well worth visiting year-round.

We’ve been there several times, at different points throughout the year, and there are always exciting and interesting Tromso activities to do, like visiting museums and monuments, going dog or reindeer sledding, and experiencing natural phenomena like the midnight sun and Northern Lights.

Of course, since Tromso is so remote, the best way to explore the area is with a Tromso rental car . That way, you will have plenty of flexibility to experience the best things to do in Tromso , as well as the best things to do around Tromso , like visiting the Lofoten Islands .

Without further ado, let’s get into the best things to do in Tromso !

1. The Arctic Cathedral, the top-rated Tromso tourist attraction

The  Arctic Cathedral  is undoubtedly one of the most popular  Tromso tourist attractions . Although the site is known as a cathedral, it’s actually a parish church that’s located in Tromsdalen.

This attention-grabbing building is the work of architect Jan Inge Hovig. Made of aluminum-coated concrete panels, the church has been compared numerous times to the Sydney Opera House in Australia because of its pyramidal shape. On the other hand, some say that it resembles an iceberg.

Exploring this striking cathedral should certainly top your list of Tromso must-do activities . Since the church can be admired from various points around the city, you won’t be able to visit Tromso without at least catching a glimpse of it. Even so, I recommend visiting the cathedral so you can see it up close.

2. Polaria, a popular place to visit in Tromso

Polaria is the northernmost aquarium in the world and one of the most visited Tromso attractions .

Originally opened for purely scientific purposes, nowadays, this Tromso tourist attraction houses a panoramic cinema and a sea pool with bearded seals. You’ll also get to see multiple aquarium tanks, all of which only contain northern marine species.

Practically every guide to Tromso sightseeing recommends going to Polaria, but we didn’t go when we visited Tromso because we prefer not to see animals in captivity.

3. Take the Fjellheisen cable car, one of the best things to do in Tromso

Taking the Fjellheisen cable car is one of the best things to do in Tromso at any time of year.

The cable car takes you up to the mountain ledge of Storsteinen, which is 1,525 feet above sea level, and offers incredible views of the fjords and nearby islands. If you get lucky, it’s also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Tromso.

Right where the Fjellheisen cable car drops you off is the path that takes you to Tromsdalstinden, a mountain located 4,032 feet above sea level. This trail is perfect if you like hiking, since you can get even more spectacular views from Tromsdalstinden’s peak.

4. See the Northern Lights, the best thing to do in Tromso at night

There’s nothing better to do in Tromso in winter than watch a Northern Lights display . Thanks to Tromso’s far-north location, it is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Norway . Although we’ve already seen the aurora in different parts of the world on many occasions, I can assure you that this natural phenomenon is just as magical and exciting every time we see it.

If you’ve never seen the aurora before, booking one of the many Northern Lights tours that leave from Tromso is the best way to experience its beauty. Your guide will know exactly where to head to increase your chances of seeing the aurora, which is crucial, since sightings depend on how clear the sky is.

My favorite tour is this one , as they’ll take you wherever you need to go, including Finland and Sweden, to fulfill your dream of seeing the Northern Lights.

5. Whale watching fjord tour, a fantastic Tromso activity in winter

Learn more about Norwegian wildlife and enjoy one of the best things to do near Tromso by booking a whale watching fjord tour .

Tromso’s whale watching season lasts from November to early February, so taking a tour is one of the best things to do in Tromso in winter . You’ll most likely see humpbacks and orcas when you go whale watching from Tromso , since they flock to the fjords to feed on herring, but you may also see eagles and dolphins.

This whale safari is the tour we took while we were in Tromso, and it was an incredible experience.

6. Tromsø Cathedral, one of the top Tromso sights

Tromsø Cathedral is one of the top tourist attractions in Tromso for good reason. This beautiful neo-Gothic church was built in 1861 and designed by Christian Heinrich Grosch. Interestingly, this cathedral is the only Norwegian cathedral made of wood.

Luckily, this Tromso attraction is very easy to visit, since it’s in the center of the city, on Storgata Street.

7. Dog sledding, one of the most exciting Tromso activities

If you’re a canine lover, don’t miss out on going dog sledding , one of the best Tromso winter activities .

I highly recommend booking this husky dog sledding tour if you want to do this Tromso activity , since it’s received excellent reviews. First, you’ll get to meet and cuddle with an entire kennel of huskies before your guide briefly demonstrates how to drive a sled. Then, you’ll head out on a sledding adventure with your dog team and explore beautiful Arctic landscapes.

To top it all off, you’ll end your day with a slice of chocolate cake by a warm fire.

8. See the midnight sun, something special to do in Tromso in summer

The  midnight sun  is probably one of the most beautiful things to see in Tromso in summer .

This natural phenomenon of 24 hours of sunshine occurs every year in June and July. Since the sun is visible for 24 hours a day, it doesn’t set at all, which creates a rich, reddish-yellow sky.

One of the best ways to experience the midnight sun is on a nighttime fjord cruise like this one . Another option is to take the Fjellheisen cable car, which, in summer, is open until midnight, so you can see the midnight sun from Storsteinen.

Wherever you choose to see it from, the midnight sun is a  must-see in Tromso if you visit the city during the summer.

9. Tromso Ice Domes, one of the most unique places to visit in Tromso

Experience one of the most unique attractions in Tromso by visiting the Tromso Ice Domes , a hotel made entirely of snow and ice.

This hotel is rebuilt from scratch every year, so it’s never quite the same, but you’ll always find plenty of beautiful ice and snow art to admire. There’s also an ice bar, cinema, and restaurant in addition to the hotel rooms.

The best way to explore this place to see in Tromso is by staying in one ice dome . However, if you’re traveling on a budget, you can book this tour , which includes a guided tour of the premises. You’ll also get to meet some reindeer and enjoy a complimentary non-alcoholic shot at the ice bar.

10. Reindeer sledding, a popular thing to do in Tromso

Reindeer sledding represents more than just a fun thing to do in Tromso . It’s also a way to learn more about Sami (an indigenous people of Scandinavia) culture, of which reindeer herding is a big part.

This reindeer sledding tour really provides the best of both worlds. The tour’s highlights include reindeer sledding and feeding, traditional Sami food, and Sami storytelling and songs.

Best of all, reindeer sledding is one of the most festive ways to celebrate Christmas in Tromso and bring Santa’s sleigh to life!

11. Tromsø Bridge, a place to visit in Tromso all year round

Tromsø Bridge connects the islands of Tromsøya and Kvaløya to the mainland, and, of course, it’s one of the most popular places to see in Tromso . The construction of the bridge in 1960 meant that the islands were no longer only connected to the mainland by ferry service, so you can imagine how important this bridge is for the city.

Tromsø Bridge was the first cantilever bridge built in Norway, and, at the time of its construction, it was also the longest in Europe. Like the Arctic Cathedral and Tromsdalstinden mountain, it has been protected by the Directorate for Cultural Heritage since 2000, and modifications to it are prohibited.

12. The Polar Museum, one of the most interesting Tromso attractions

Be sure to check out the Polar Museum , one of the best museums in Tromso and a Tromso attraction worth visiting.

Located inside an old warehouse along the waterfront, this museum houses exhibitions that cover Arctic exploration from Tromso and whaling and trapping in Northern Norway. Visiting this fascinating museum will definitely give you a greater understanding of Tromso’s history and culture.

13. Fjord cruise, a perfect tour in Tromso for exploring nature

One of the  most popular tours in Tromso  is the  Norwegian fjords cruise . With a bit of luck, in addition to seeing the beautiful Arctic landscapes, you might see some of Tromso’s wildlife.

Best of all, no matter what time of year you take the cruise, there will always be something to see, so it’s a fantastic thing to do in Tromso year-round.

Many ferries and boats pass through the fjords, but I recommend  this tour , which includes lunch. Even though wild animals can be unpredictable, there is a good chance you might see everything from various species of birds, including puffins if you go in the summer, to seals and otters.

14. Snowshoeing, one of the most fun activities in Tromso

If you love the snow as much as I do, snowshoeing is another one of the best things to do in Tromso in winter .

This snowshoeing tour will give you all the equipment you need for a snowy hike. You’ll also get to explore the mountains, enjoy incredible views, and, with a little bit of luck, see some of the region’s fauna. Another option, if long walks don’t appeal to you, is booking this snowmobile tour , where you’ll visit the Ice Domes and drive through the Arctic wilderness.

Choose the tour that best suits your preferences, but plan to enjoy one of these excursions because the landscapes you’ll see are absolutely spectacular.

15. Torget, a Tromso must-see location

Every visitor should see Torget , the main city square of the “capital of the Arctic.” Storgata, the most important street in the city, starts from this square. Moreover, because the square is in the heart of the city, this place to see in Tromso is pretty hard to miss.

In this square, you’ll find the Town Hall, music temple, statue of King Haakon VII of Norway, Culture House, and statue of Fangstmonument, the Arctic hunter. Also, after visiting Torget, I recommend walking along Storgata, as this street is full of hotels, shops, and some of Tromso’s best restaurants .

Both Torget and Storgata are great places to visit in Tromso.

16. Tromsø Harbour, another great place to visit in Tromso

In terms of places to see in Tromso , I also recommend visiting  Tromsø Harbour,  which is very close to Torget. From there, you get very nice views of the  Arctic Cathedral ,  Tromsø Bridge,  and Mount  Fløya , meaning the port is a Tromso must-see .

Additionally, many of the best hotels in Tromso are located by the harbor, including the Radisson Blu Hotel . Most of the hotel’s rooms provide views of the city, the Arctic Cathedral, or Tromso Sound and there are plenty of amenities on offer, including a sauna and fitness room.

Moreover, if you happen to be traveling to Tromso around Christmastime, the port is the best place to see fireworks on New Year’s Eve. We’ve never been to Tromso at Christmastime, but I’m sure it’s beautiful.

17. Visit Ølhallen, a historic place to see in Tromso

Ølhallen  is the oldest pub in the city, making it an iconic  place to visit in Tromso . Fishermen, farmers, and townspeople used to meet here, but now, this is a popular pub for visitors and locals alike. It’s also the ideal location to have a good beer after a long day of sightseeing in Tromso .

Just opposite  Ølhallen  is Mack Brewery, which is the northernmost brewery on the planet. Both places are a  must-visit in Tromso , especially if you’re a beer lover.

18. Fløya, Rødtind, and other places to visit around Tromso

Fans of the outdoors should definitely add hiking in Tromso to their list of things to do in Tromso . There are plenty of great hikes in the area, many of which offer spectacular views of the fjords and nearby islands.

A fantastic trail that’s close to Tromso city center leads to the top of Fløya, a peak that provides panoramic views of the city, fjords, and Kvaløya Island. Another option is hiking up to Rødtind, yet another mountain with lovely views, but you will need a rental car to reach the trail.

Many hikes can be done year-round, although some will require snowshoes in the winter. If you want to round out your outdoor adventure, you can even spend a night camping in Tromso after your hike.

19. Tromsø Museum, one of the best museums in Tromso

If you visit one museum in Tromso, make it the  Tromsø Museum. At this fascinating Tromso attraction , you’ll learn about Norwegian history, art, science, and more.

All the exhibitions in this museum are related to studies and specialties of the Arctic University of Norway. The topics they cover include geology, Sami culture, and sacred art.

20. Stay in a secluded cabin, a relaxing thing to do in Tromso

For those who value their peace and quiet, you can’t go wrong with staying in a secluded Tromso cabin and doing day trips to places to visit around Tromso .

Most cabins, however, other than Tromsø Lodge and Camping , are located outside Tromso, so you do need a rental car to reach them. The incredible natural surroundings make staying in a cabin worth it, though. Cabins also provide great opportunities to see the Northern Lights, stay on the edge of a fjord, or even just get some rest and relaxation.

21. Sami culture tour, a must-do Tromso activity

Another of the Tromso activities I recommend is one that allows you to learn about Sami culture .

The Sami are a nomadic people who have traditionally survived off of fishing, reindeer herding, and fruit- and berry-picking. They are a tribe with their own culture and are considered the first known indigenous population of Scandinavia.

This tour is a great option if you’d like to learn a bit about Sami traditions and culture, as you’ll see a traditional Sami dwelling (a lavvu), eat a traditional meal, and listen to Sami songs and stories.

22. Visit the Tromsø Public Library and City Archives in Norway

The  Tromso Public Library and City Archives  is another place to visit in Tromso.  This library is the northernmost public library in the world and is located 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle.

The building was designed by the architect Gunnar Bøgeberg Haugen, and its construction was completed in 2005. Best of all, it’s easy to reach, since it’s located in the city center, just 164 feet from Storgata. The most striking features of the building are its roof with four sloping arches and its glazed facade that takes full advantage of the natural light.

23. Telegrafbukta beach, where to go in Tromso in summer

Visiting Telegrafbukta Beach is not just a thing to do in Tromso in the summer ; it’s also a thing to do in Tromso throughout the year .

From this beach, you get spectacular views of the city, and, if you go during the summer, you can take a dip in the Arctic Sea. Of course, at that time of year, it’s full of locals, although you should still be able to visit it.

The summer is also the best time of year to visit Tromso and see the beach if you want to attend Bukta music festival, which is held every July.

Telegrafbukta is even worth visiting in winter, since it’s very beautiful there when it snows.

24. MS Polstjerna, an intriguing Tromso attraction

The  MS Polstjerna ship  is one of the   most immersive Tromso attractions , since it’s a museum set inside a former sealing ship. The museum is also very convenient to reach, as it’s located close to Polaria.

The exhibits inside focus on what life was like on board during expeditions through the Arctic, and the museum displays tools that were used to hunt seals, an activity that, luckily, is no longer allowed.

25. Northern Norwegian Science Center, one of the best places to visit in Tromso

Finally, the last Tromso attraction I recommend visiting is the Northern Norwegian Science Center .

This science museum is a great place to take kids because it’s interactive and has an exclusively educational purpose. In addition, you’ll find the beautiful Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden of Tromsø right next door. This garden is best viewed from the end of May to the beginning of October, when the collection of Arctic, Antarctic, and alpine plants from all over the world is in full bloom.

As you can see, there’s never a bad time to plan a visit to Tromso , since there are always plenty of Tromso activities happening to keep you busy. Whether you’re a fan of the outdoors, a culture fiend, or a foodie, hopefully, this list has helped you find things to do in Tromso that appeal to your interests.

Knowing where to stay in Tromso is also an important part of the trip planning process, and, most importantly, don’t forget to download this Tromso map so you can find your way around the city.

If, after this article, you have any questions about places to visit in Tromso , don’t hesitate to leave a comment. I will be happy to help.

Enjoy your trip!

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Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ 25 Things to Do in Tromso, Norway + Map ”

Hi Ascen, Thanks for posting this as it’s been very helpful in planning my brief cruise ship stop over in Tromso. Quick question, I am thinking of taking a 4-5 hour small group tour. Arctic Roadtrip: Sommarøy with scenic picnic, or should I just spend the day looking around Tromso. I’m only in town from 9am to 5pm, so won’t have much time to see Tromso itself if I take the Arctic Roadtrip.

Thanks, Dain

Hi Dain, It really depends on what you’re more interested in. The attractions in Tromso are more suited to those who are interested in history and culture, while the tour you suggested is better for nature enthusiasts. Both are great options, so I would go with whatever your personal preferences are!

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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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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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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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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tromsø

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Lura Seavey Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The port of Tromsø, northern Norway's largest city, lies between Narvik and Hammerfest on a small island 349 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. Established in the 13th century, Tromsø remains an important fishing port, as well as a popular location from which to view and study Norway's famous aurora borealis, or northern lights.

Each year in late January/early February, Tromsø hosts the Northern Lights Festival (Nordlysfestivalen), a musical extravaganza that attracts artists and symphonic orchestras from across Scandinavia. One of the most popular things to do is experience the midnight sun, visible here from mid-May through mid-July.

Tromsø's northern location and natural harbor ensure the city remains important as a base for Arctic expeditions, as well as for the numerous Norwegian fishing vessels based here. It's also a much-used jumping-off point for ferries and cruise ships to and from major ports such as Bergen, and in summer for coastal cruises to destinations such as Spitsbergen.

Plan your sightseeing adventures in the city with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Tromsø.

See also: Where to Stay in Tromsø

1. See the Northern Lights

2. explore the arctic-alpine botanic garden, 3. cruise the fjords, 4. go dogsledding, 5. learn about the arctic environment at polaria, 6. take a snowmobile safari, 7. the polar museum (polarmuseet), 8. arctic cathedral (ishavskatedralen), 9. nordnorsk kunstmuseum, 10. look at things differently at the perspective museum, 11. the arctic university museum of norway, 12. tromsø cathedral, 13. science center of northern norway, 14. take a trip to hella, kvaløy, 15. visit the historic skansen house, where to stay in tromsø for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to tromsø, map of attractions & things to do in tromsø, tromso - climate chart.

No trip this far into the Arctic Circle is complete without seeing the aurora borealis, one of the 7 natural wonders of the world . Those visiting Tromsø between late September and early March have the best chance of seeing it in full swing.

Tourists who are looking for a good spot to catch them should hop on the Fjellheisen Cable Car . Open daily through 11pm, visitors will have plenty of after-dark time to ride up Storsteinen in the enclosed gondola and admire the lights and the town below from the viewing platform. There is also a restaurant at the upper station.

The Small-Group Aurora Hunt Northern Lights Tour from Tromsø takes the guesswork out of finding the ideal spot. Once your expert guide has evaluated weather and other conditions, the group will settle down around a bonfire and enjoy supper while waiting for the lights to appear and learning about the phenomenon. Once the show is in its full glory, your guide will even give pointers on how to get the best shots and will also take photos, which are sent to you after your tour.

Tromsø's Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden (Arktisk alpin Botanisk hage) and its unique collections are a must-see for those interested in Northern Norway's unique flora. Despite the snow, the flowering season starts early in May, rewarding visitors with displays of purple saxifrage and yellow cushion plants, pasque flowers, and a variety of flowering bulbs.

Said to be the world's most northerly botanic gardens, it's divided into 25 collections, each showcasing a different cold-weather species or region, including plants of the Himalayas, the Arctic, and other extreme climates, as well as traditional Norwegian plants. Among its most prized specimens are the giant Tibetan blue poppy and a wide variety of cold-hardy rhododendrons.

Another favorite garden features traditional medicinal plants from the region. Flowering continues until the snow returns in October.

Address: Universitet i Tromsø Post Box 6050 Langnes, 903, Tromsø

Official site: https://en.uit.no/tmu/botanisk

Tromsø's position on an island near the coast of the Norwegian Sea makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding fjords. One of the best fjords near Tromsø is Lyngenfjord, an 82-kilometer passage by the Lyngen Alps, which is a popular destination for northern lights chasers.

Boat tours of the fjords allow visitors to appreciate the beauty of the cliffs and mountain ranges that meet the water's edge. Tourists who aren't fond of boats can also find bus and car tours that explore the upper rim of the fjords. From this perspective, visitors can enjoy expansive vistas and bird's-eye views of the waterways, which provide excellent photo opportunities .

A wildlife sightseeing cruise on the traditional wooden Fjord Queen gives you the opportunity to view and learn about the Arctic wildlife in the area. An expert guide will help you spot the region's many wildlife inhabitants, including reindeer along the shore, a wide variety of birds such as puffins and sea eagles, and marine wildlife including pilot whales and even dolphins.

Dogsledding first came to Norway when colonists brought it back to Europe after learning about it from the Inuit in present-day Canada. It quickly caught on due to the domesticated dogs' ability to adapt and survive in the cold temperatures while being relatively easy to breed and train. Today it is practically synonymous with arctic life, and dogsledding has become a popular activity for tourists.

In and around Tromsø there are several opportunities to meet the dogs, see how they are trained, and go for guided dogsledding tours. Tourists can also find reindeer farms operated by local Sami , traditional reindeer herders, some of which offer reindeer-pulled sled rides.

The Tromsø: Husky Sledding Self-Drive Adventure gives tourists the opportunity to learn how to drive a team of huskies and mush their way across the Arctic wilderness. Ages seven and up can participate, and the package includes mushing lessons, familiarization with your dog team, 90 minutes on the trails, Arctic-rated gear to stay warm, and hot cocoa with chocolate cake when you get back to camp. Tourists who prefer not to drive their own team can remain a passenger.

It's hard to miss Polaria, Tromsø's unique museum, dedicated to everything to do with the Arctic, and the world's most northerly aquarium. Located just a few minutes' walk from central Tromsø, the building is designed to look like Arctic ice floes that have been forced up onto land, with its exterior resembling a toppling set of dominoes.

Here, visitors will find a variety of exhibits about the Arctic, including an extensive installation showing how climate change is having an irreversible effect on the glaciers and Arctic wildlife. There's also a film about the aurora borealis (northern lights). The stars of the attraction, though, are the seals, which can be observed in a close approximation of their natural habitat.

The museum also houses the Polstjerna , a historic Norwegian seal hunting vessel that can be explored.

Address: Hjalmar Johansensgate 12, 9296 Tromsø

Official site: www.polaria.no

Snowmobiling is an excellent way to explore Norway, giving visitors a chance to reach spots no car or truck could get to. Experienced snowmobilers can find several places to rent equipment with or without guides, and there are also several outfitters who provide lessons for beginners as well.

Winter sports enthusiasts will be thrilled to embark on the Lapland Lyngen Alps Snowmobile Safari from Tromsø . After a ferry ride and a quick safety lesson, tourists are provided with all the necessary gear and a two-person snowmobile. The tour explores trails through valleys and along mountainsides, including plenty of stops for photo-ops, and ends with a warm meal before heading back to Tromsø.

Tomsø's location more than 321 kilometers inside the Arctic Circle makes it an ideal home base for polar expeditions. Because of this, it was named the "Gateway to the Arctic" in the late 19th century.

The Polar Museum (Polarmuseet) is one of the best places to visit to learn about the area's long history, from its discovery and first settlements to its role in the once lucrative whaling industry, which once flourished here, and its eventual transformation into a central Arctic research base.

Exhibits include historical information about some of the earliest expeditions and explorers like Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen, as well as exhibits that present the findings of the continuing extensive research.

The museum's newest exhibit, Polar Night, looks at the fascinating world of Arctic wildlife during the endless nights of winter.

Address: Søndre Tollbodgate 11, 9008, Tromsø

Official site: https://en.uit.no/tmu/polarmuseet

Just before the Tromsø Bridge on the mainland sits Tromsdalen Church . Better known as the Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen), this striking example of the bold modern architecture now common throughout Norway was designed by Jan Inge Hovig in 1965.

Hovig's design ties in elements of divine worship with the Nordic surroundings, echoing the shape of ships' sails and the stark white of the ice. A major landmark and tourist attraction, this striking structure is visible from incoming flights and from Tromsø Sound . The cathedral's most famous feature is its 1,500-square-foot glass mosaic designed by artist Victor Sparre.

For a special treat, try to time your visit with one of the cathedral's excellent "Midnight Sun Concerts" held in July and August (check their website below for details).

Address: Hans Nilsens vei 41, 9020 Tromsdalen

Official site: www.ishavskatedralen.no/en/

One of the top things to do for free in Tromsø, the Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum is a first-rate art museum located close to both the harbor and the city's main tourist information office. Established in 1985, the permanent collections include more than two thousand works in various media from the 1800s through the present, and featured artists include Edvard Munch, Harriet Backer, and Anna-Eva Bergman.

The museum's first floor is dedicated to changing art exhibitions, all of which have a theme directly related to life in the far north. Topics covered include the effects of climate change to the struggles inherent in a region where darkness and cold envelop everything for several months each year.

Address: Sjøgata 1, 9008 Tromsø

Official site: www.nnkm.no/en

The unique Perspective Museum (Perspektivet Museum) consists of a mammoth photography collection of more than a half-million images that explore present-day and historical Tromsø. Arranged in a documentary-style presentation, the photographs not only illustrate life in Tromsø but also explore a variety of thought-provoking cultural and societal topics, which encourage discussion and enduring curiosity.

Collections include the work of both local and international photographers, as well as assorted artifacts and archives from the Tromsø Folk Museum and the Tromsø Town Museum , which contribute to its value as a cultural research center.

Address: Storgata 95, 9008 Tromsø

Official site: www.perspektivet.no/en

The Arctic University Museum of Norway's (Norges arktiske universitetsmuseum) most popular area is dedicated to the Northern Lights . As much an educational center as it is tourist attraction, this unique exhibit allows visitors to get "hands-on" with the science behind the phenomenon.

Related displays include a look at the history of aurora borealis research, a thorough explanation of what makes these lights appear, and even an area where you can create your own show in the plasma chamber. There is also a film, free guided tours, and admission includes a complimentary book about the topic.

The museum is also home to an extensive natural history department . Here, you'll learn about Arctic life, including migratory birds and sea life, as well as human history in the region. Exhibits focus on the ways humans affect the natural world, both in the short-term and long-term.

The museum also houses two ecclesiastical galleries, which feature examples of artwork from medieval German churches, as well as Norwegian art from the Lutheran Era.

Address: Lars Thørings veg 10, Tromsø

Official site: https://en.uit.no/tmu

Constructed in 1861, Tromsø Cathedral (Tromsø domkirke) is located southwest of the main quay in the city center. This Gothic Revival cathedral is the world's northernmost Protestant cathedral and the only cathedral in Norway made entirely of wood.

The cathedral's altarpiece is a spectacular copy of Adolph Tidemand's Resurrection . Other important features include the large stained-glass windows in the front of the church, designed by celebrated artist Gustav Vigeland and installed in 1960.

To the west of Tromsø's town center stands the Elverhøy Church (or kirke). Built in 1803, this beautiful red wooden structure was originally located at the site of the city's cathedral, but was dismantled and moved in 1861, then again 100 years later to its current location overlooking Tromsø. Notable interior features include an ornately carved altar and pulpit, an organ loft, and a medieval Madonna carved in wood. It has an active congregation as part of the Church of Norway.

Address: Storgata, 9008 Tromsø

The Science Center of Northern Norway, home to Norway's largest planetarium, offers visitors a thrilling up close look at Tromsø's spectacular northern lights on its huge digital screen. In addition, the center offers visitors a chance to explore regional phenomena and universal questions on more than 80 interactive installations covering arctic related themes such as energy, climate, and weather, as well as resources and the environment.

One of the museum's largest exhibits focuses on the unique nature of life deep within the Arctic Circle and how this affects every aspect of life, from the economy to everyday life.

Address: Hansine Hansensveg 17, 9019 Tromsø

Official site: https://nordnorsk.vitensenter.no/?language=en

About 32 kilometers south of Tromsø on the east side of the island of Kvaløy lies the village of Hella. Here, you'll find a number of interesting attractions, including an open-air museum containing a number of houses from old Tromsø.

Also worth a visit are the Kvinnafossen Falls. Located between Leikanger and Hella, they're particularly stunning during the spring thaw, when visitors park on the road to feel the spray from the waterfall. Hella is also home to prehistoric rock carvings dating as far back as 7000 BC, one of which is open to the public for viewing; additional prehistoric carvings can be found in Tennes at the edge of Balsfjord.

Starting life as a customs station in 1789, Skansen is the oldest house in Tromsø. Even older than this picturesque house and the many smaller buildings that surround it are its foundations, the remnants of medieval fortifications dating from the 13th century.

Today, the building houses a small café, which is open during the summer months and serves traditional food in a cozy atmosphere, and the grounds are a lovely area for picnics.

Address: Søndre Tollbugate 8, 9008 Tromsø

We recommend these centrally located hotels in Tromsø with easy access to top attractions like Polaria and the Arctic Cathedral:

• Clarion Hotel The Edge : This modern 4-star hotel features city and water views, contemporary decor, and a delicious complimentary breakfast.
• Scandic Ishavshotel : A great option for those seeking mid-range pricing, this hotel features beautiful harbor views, stylish decor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a free breakfast buffet.
• Clarion Collection Hotel With : Affordable rates are the norm here, along with water views, modern decor, and a sauna and steam room.
• Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromso : This budget hotel features sleek decor, multilingual staff, and bathrooms with heated floors.
• Tromsø by Foot: Tourists can get the most out of a short visit to Tromsø by taking the 2.5-hour Historical City Walk tour . Led by a local guide, this sightseeing walking tour explores the city's medieval settlement, the marketplace, and several of its most significant buildings, including Ølhallen, once the social hub for Tromsø's fishermen. The tour also includes admission and a guided tour of the Polar Museum.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Arctic Beauty: On the northern fringe of Norway, Tromsø is close to the junction of Sweden and Finland , where you can explore the Swedish Lapland, home to Abisko National Park , as well as the Finnish Lapland . Not quite as far north but still within the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands have an amazingly mild climate and are another good vantage point for getting a glimpse of the northern lights.

Norway's Most Epic Fjords: If you are also planning on visiting southern Norway, a tour of the country's most impressive fjords is highly recommended. Sognefjord is the largest, splitting the shore into a chasm for 204 kilometers east from the coastal town of Sygnefest to Skjolden. A few hours south, the Hardangerfjord area surrounds the second largest fjord in Norway, not far from the attractions of Bergen .

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The 15 Best Things to do in Tromsø, Norway

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Start your Arctic adventure of a lifetime in Tromsø! A hidden gem tucked away in the north of Norway , Tromsø is a magical place full of natural wonders. Visit in winter for the chance to see the enchanting Northern Lights, or plan your trip for summer when you can witness the phenomenal midnight sun. 

Tromsø was fondly nicknamed the “Paris of the North” by travelers in the 19th century for its dazzling fashion, decadent food, and glamorous culture. Today the city continues to live up to its reputation with more restaurants per person than anywhere else in Norway and a seemingly never-ending series of festivals held throughout the year.

From skiing, hiking, dogsledding, and whale watching to museums, theaters, art galleries, and saunas, Tromsø always has something to offer, whatever you’re into. No matter which time of year you go, you’ll never get bored in Tromsø!

With such a fantastic selection of things to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to start. To give you a helping hand, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Tromsø. Add these activities and attractions to your Tromsø bucket list, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time discovering the Paris of the North.

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Tromsø, Norway

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Tromsø

1. find out if you like reindeer meat.

Tromsø is known for its fantastic cuisine, which includes a number of dishes you may find unusual. If you’ve never had it before, one of the must-do things in Tromsø is to try reindeer meat!

This traditional protein is hugely popular throughout the city, and you’ll see it on almost every restaurant menu you find. Although it looks similar to beef (and it’s usually served as steak), reindeer meat is much leaner than beef, giving it a milder flavor and lighter texture.

Reindeer meat is similar to venison but much more tender. To help bring out the subtle flavors, it’s usually served with a sweet cream- or red wine-based sauce. 

Mathallen is a fantastic place to try reindeer meat. This restaurant is run by a multi-award-winning chef, and the presentation is reliably spectacular. It’s served as a reindeer steak along with fresh local vegetables (something you’ll rarely find in the Arctic!) and a rich, creamy sauce.

2. Go shopping on Storgata Street

Storgata Street is Tromsø’s main pedestrian street that’s lined with every kind of store you can imagine. It’s a wonderful place to pick up gifts for friends and family back home. If you’ve got no space in your suitcase, it’s still worth a visit for the opportunity to window shop and soak up the atmosphere.

Here you’ll find stores selling everything from typical souvenirs and local handmade gifts to Norwegian designer fashion and beautiful flowers. If you need a break from shopping, pop into one of the many cafes and restaurants along the street and treat yourself to a traditional Norwegian dish. 

Storgata Street is pretty small. You can easily walk along it in 10 minutes if you’re in a rush. But if you’ve got plenty of time to spare, we suggest you take it easy and admire the beautiful architecture.

This part of the city is home to the largest number of historical wooden houses north of Trondheim. They were created in the Empire style and feature colorful façades with white doorways, half-columns, and window frames with dog tooth patterns.

3. Witness the Northern Lights

Seeing the Northern Lights is one of the coolest things to do in Tromsø. Because of its unique location (Tromsø is 217 miles north of the Arctic Circle), it’s one of the top places in Norway to catch a view of the Aurora Borealis. 

The best time of year to see the incredible natural light show is in winter – specifically between September and April. Because it’s such a small place, Tromsø has really low light pollution levels. The complete darkness that blankets the sky at night provides the ideal conditions to see the Northern Lights at their best!

If you prefer doing things on your own, you can download a Northern Lights app to be alerted when and where they’re visible. If you’d rather someone else do the hard work for you, consider signing up for an Aurora Borealis safari and let your guide take you to the spots you’re most likely to see it. 

Book a Northern Lights and Husky Experience

4. Check out Spis Uka on an empty stomach 

If you’re planning on visiting in March, one of the best Tromsø activities is to try all the different foods available at Spis Uka . A popular foodie event that’s been held every year in the city since 2016, Spis Uka isn’t like any old food festival.

Instead of a big hall filled with various food stalls, Spis Uka takes place in a number of restaurants in the city. Each participating restaurant offers a special dish for cheaper-than-normal prices for lunch and dinner.

As it’s a larger portion, the dinner price is always more expensive. So if you’re trying to save some money, consider going out for lunch instead. The festival takes place for a full week, so you can try plenty of dishes during your visit. 

There are absolutely loads of dishes to choose between, from spicy salami pizzas, butter chicken curry, and sushi boxes to mussel soup, grilled catfish, and whale steak. Whatever you’re in the mood for, your craving is guaranteed to be satisfied!

5. Enjoy a reindeer or dogsled ride

For a unique way to explore Tromsø and the surrounding areas, hop on a sled and let some strong reindeer or high-energy huskies race you to your destination. Definitely one of the most unique things to do in Tromsø, a reindeer or dogsled ride is one of those things you’ll remember forever. 

On this reindeer-focused tour, you’ll start with a reindeer sledding experience with a local Sami guide. You’ll then visit the Sami camp, where you’ll get to feed the reindeer and enjoy a delicious hot meal inside a typical Sami tent. It’s an incredible day out you can’t do anywhere else.

If you’d rather be pulled along by energetic huskies, this dogsledding tour may be more your style. You’ll get to drive your own team of huskies across the Arctic and learn all the tricks the trainers use.

When you’re done, you’ll be invited to try some delicious chocolate cake and a hot drink while warming up around a fireplace. Your day ends with the chance to play with more than 130 Alaskan huskies!

Book a Reindeer Sledding & Feeding Experience

6. Explore the Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden

You may think not much grows in Tromsø, but the Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden will show you the truth. This sprawling garden covers almost five acres and is home to thousands of different plant species which have been rounded up from all over the world. 

Because the temperatures are so low in Tromsø, the flowers and plants in the garden need to be really resilient to thrive. This is why most species are hardy Arctic varieties that can withstand the ice-cold temperatures that prevail for most of the year. 

There are 25 different collections within the garden, including the recently-added peonarium, which is stunning. The Arctic collection is particularly impressive, as are the Himalayan, South American, and African collections. It’s quite surprising how many different species can stand up to Tromsø’s harsh weather conditions!

The garden is completely free to enter and the best time to visit is during late spring and summer when it’s full of brightly colored flowers that look and smell wonderful. 

7. Relax on a Tromsø fjord cruise

For some of the best sights in Tromsø, hop onboard a fjord cruise. The city is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes, and one of the best ways to admire them is from the river on a boat.

There are loads of different types of cruises to choose from. If you’re interested in local wildlife, sign up for this Wildlife Bird Fjord Cruise which includes some epic birdwatching.

Depending on the time of year you visit, you’ll have the chance to see everything from guillemots, sea eagles, and eider ducks to cormorants and puffins, as well as otters and seals. You may even get to see some whales and dolphins, too!

If you’re visiting Tromsø in summer, consider a Midnight Cruise. You’ll get to sail along the city’s beautiful fjords in the middle of the night when your surroundings are lit up by the dazzling midnight sun. In the right conditions, it can make it look like the sky is on fire!

Book a Wildlife Bird Fjord Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

8. Spend the night at the Tromsø Ice Domes

One of the best things to do in Tromsø in the winter is to visit the Tromsø Ice Domes . This incredible place is open from late December until late March and is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. 

Hidden away in Tamok Valley, the Tromsø Ice Domes are rebuilt every year as the Polar Night nears. Much more interesting than its name suggests, this landmark is about as close to an ice village as you’ll get in the real world.

Here you can discover everything from ice bars and an ice restaurant to an ice cinema and an ice hotel. Everything really is made out of ice, which is why it’s only open for such a short time. 

If you’re looking for a unique place to stay, we definitely recommend you spend the night at the Tromsø Ice Domes. You’ll get to snuggle up in expedition sleeping bags on a comfortable mattress covered in reindeer skins. The rooms are absolutely stunning and feature different themes, such as traditional Sami and the Northern Lights. 

Book an Ice Domes Guided Tour and Reindeer Visit

9. Learn about ancient hunting methods at the Polar Museum

If you’re interested in Tromsø’s history and how local people used to live, spend a few hours at the Polar Museum . This interesting museum features various exhibitions on Arctic expeditions, sea mammal hunting, the dangers of Arctic trapping, and what local life was like in the 1900s.

The Polar Museum is tucked inside a former warehouse that dates back to 1837. It features a number of permanent displays, many of which include taxidermy animals, fur coats, animal skins, and skeletons. Hunting has always been an important part of life in the Arctic, so you should only visit if you’re comfortable with the topic. 

On the ground floor, you’ll find around 10 different rooms, each of which contains a life-sized diorama that shows what life was like for locals in terms of hunting, trapping, and living in basic cabins. 

Head upstairs and you’ll discover a different section dedicated to polar expeditions. There are replicas of aircraft used to explore the North Pole, as well as the famous Fram ship used by Roald Amundsen to travel to the South Pole. 

Despite its small size, it’s a pretty interesting museum with a lot going on!

10. See cute bearded seals at Polaria

Visiting Polaria is one of the most fun things to do in Tromsø. This aquarium is one of only two places in Europe where you can see bearded seals up close.

There are currently four seals living in Polaria – two bearded seals and two harbor seals. One of the highlights of the aquarium is the training sessions during which you can watch the seals being mentally and physically stimulated with fun games. Having an active life is really important for seals, and the training sessions keep them in great shape.

Polaria is also home to several aquarium tanks filled exclusively with fish, shellfish, and plants from the seas around Norway. From halibut and wolffish to starfish and sea cucumbers, there’s loads to see here.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the panoramic cinema. This huge 69-foot canvas provides you with an immersive and modern way to get to know the Arctic through three movies. There are multiple screenings each day, and they’re all included in the price of your ticket.

11. Relax in a floating sauna

One of the coolest Tromsø activities you’ve definitely got to try is to pamper yourself with a relaxing sauna. There are loads of different types of saunas throughout the city, from traditional saunas you’ve seen many times before to more unusual saunas you may not be familiar with. 

Pust is one of the coolest saunas in Tromsø. Located on the waters of the city’s harbor, this floating sauna has a clear view of the Arctic Cathedral and the Arctic Bridge. Thanks to its unique location, you can split your time between cozying up in the sauna and enjoying invigorating swims in the harbor. 

There’s something special about Pust. Even though it’s just a short walk away from the bustling city streets, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away from civilization when you’re there. The sauna can hold up to 20 people, so if you want a peaceful experience, check online to see how many other people have made reservations when you want to visit.

12. Gaze at the ultra-modern Arctic Cathedral

The Arctic Cathedral is one of the top things to see in Tromsø. Unlike typical cathedrals, which were built centuries ago, the Arctic Cathedral was constructed in 1965. Because it’s so young, it has a unique modern design that’s incredibly eye-catching.

The structure was designed to look like a collection of huge blocks of ice, each stacked one behind the other. And the front is covered in giant glass panels with a huge white crucifix overlay. When it’s dark, the sides of the cathedral and the crucifix are brightly lit for all to see. 

The lights are so dazzling that you can see the cathedral from all over Tromsø! It’s incredibly mesmerizing and enchanting to see. If you didn’t know it was a religious building, it’s easy to mistake it for a contemporary art gallery or even a fancy restaurant.

The inside of the Arctic Cathedral also differs from most other cathedrals. While there is a large stained glass window, it’s made from many tiny mosaic-like pieces. The result is beautiful and unique. 

13. Enjoy a beer and some seagull eggs

When you need a break from all your Tromsø sightseeing, find the nearest bar and order a beer along with some seagull eggs. It may sound like a weird combination, but it’s the snack of choice for many people in the city!

Ølhallen is one of the best places in Tromsø for both craft beer and seagull eggs. It’s the oldest pub in the city and has 72 different beers on tap. A number of the beers are as local as you can get and are made by Mack – the owner of the pub.

Here you’ll find seagull eggs hardboiled and available to order as a snack. They’re really similar to chicken eggs. They taste almost the same, except they’re slightly salty and much bigger. They also tend to have a darker, almost orange yolk.

Sometimes seagull eggs are served up smørbrød -style when they’re sliced, spread out over a single piece of bread, and sprinkled generously with black pepper. It’s a simple yet delicious open-faced sandwich that makes for a great lunch.

14. Go ice-skating on a natural ice rink

Going ice-skating is one of the top things to do in Tromsø in winter. When the temperatures are at their coldest, almost all the lakes freeze over. The thick and sturdy layers of ice provide the ideal conditions for ice-skating.

Prestvannet Lake is one of our favorite spots for ice-skating. The lake is absolutely huge, so no matter how many other people are there, you’ll always have enough space. The surrounding area is a beautiful nature reserve and a wonderful place to enjoy a winter stroll, too.

The Vingnesvika ice skating track is another great place to go ice-skating in Tromsø. The outdoor speed-skating track is suitable for people of all ages and abilities. You can currently skate in an oval of around 1,000 feet. But there are plans in progress to extend the track so that it covers 6.2 miles!

15. Party for hours at the Nordlysfestivalen

At the end of January each year, Tromsø throws a party to rival all parties. Known as Nordlysfestivalen (Northern Lights Festival), this festival celebrates practically every kind of music that exists. So no matter what you’re into, you’re sure to have an incredible time here.

From chamber music to symphonic orchestras, opera to jazz, and modern to classic, almost every genre of music features at this festival which has been going on for more than 30 years. Amazing artists from all over Norway and the rest of the world travel to the small Arctic city to share their talents with music lovers.

Although the live concerts are the highlight of the festival, there’s plenty of other stuff going on, too. Lectures, exhibitions, music masterclasses, and pub parties all feature in the program.

If you’re feeling lucky, it’s worth signing up for one of the Northern Lights cruises, too. As the festival takes place in Tromsø in the middle of winter, you’ve got a great chance of seeing the spectacular light show.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Tromsø. What’s your favorite thing to do in the Paris of the North? 

Planning a trip to Norway? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

Frequently Asked Questions

One of the best things to do in Tromsø in the winter is to visit the Tromsø Ice Domes. This incredible place is open from late December until late March and is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. If you’re looking for a unique place to stay, we definitely recommend you spend the night at the Tromsø Ice Domes. You’ll get to snuggle up in expedition sleeping bags on a comfortable mattress covered in reindeer skins. The rooms are absolutely stunning and feature different themes, such as traditional Sami and the Northern Lights.

One of the coolest Tromsø activities you’ve definitely got to try is to pamper yourself with a relaxing sauna. Pust is one of the coolest saunas in Tromsø. Located on the waters of the city’s harbor, this floating sauna has a clear view of the Arctic Cathedral and the Arctic Bridge. Thanks to its unique location, you can split your time between cozying up in the sauna and enjoying invigorating swims in the harbor.

Seeing the Northern Lights is one of the coolest things to do in Tromsø. The best time of year to see the incredible natural light show is in winter – specifically between September and April. Because it’s such a small place, Tromsø has really low light pollution levels. The complete darkness that blankets the sky at night provides the ideal conditions to see the Northern Lights at their best!

Tromsø is known for its fantastic cuisine, which includes a number of dishes you may find unusual. If you’ve never had it before, one of the must-do things in Tromsø is to try reindeer meat! Reindeer meat is similar to venison but much more tender. To help bring out the subtle flavors, it’s usually served with a sweet cream- or red wine-based sauce.

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About the Author:

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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Attractions and Places To See around Tromsø - Top 20

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Hiking Highlight

From the Arctic Cathedral you have a great view of Tromsø and the harbor. The walk over the bridge is worth it just for the view, rather than because of the cathedral ☹️

Tromsdalen kirke

The most striking modern church in Norway is the Tromsø Arctic Cathedral. It was designed by Oslo architect Jan Inge Hovig in 1965 and built at the end of the … read more

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Tromsø Domkirken

The forecourt and the pedestrian zone have underfloor heating. Therefore mostly free of snow.

Sherpatreppa

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1,203 steps lead up to the mountain from below. You can't imagine what an immense effort it was to build these stairs by hand. There is a lot going on here, especially on weekends.

Fjellheisen – Utsikten til Tromsø

From up here you have a wonderful view of the city and the surrounding mountains. There is a café in the mountain station of the cable car, which is particularly popular at weekends.

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• Aurora Hunt Tour with Citizen Science from Tromso - Professional Photos Included
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Tromsø: Things To Do, Tours & Secret Locals’ Tips

Tromsø , the lively and wonderful “Capital of the Arctic” : a town perched on an island scenically set in the middle of a strait surrounded by steep mountains, islands with dramatic landscapes and the Arctic Ocean . In this guide – written by a local – you will find all the best tips on the best things to do in Tromsø , the best places to visit, the attractions you can’t miss!

If you are planning your trip to Tromsø and Northern Norway , then here you will find everything you need, explained in depth and in an easy way. Tromsø is a beautiful city, with nice museums and excellent restaurants and hotels, but those who visit Tromsø do it for the many activities you can do in the surrounding area!

Visiting Tromsø in winter will allow you to enjoy all those outdoor tours and activities that make it a one-of-a-kind destination: Northern Lights , Whale Watching , Fjord Cruises , Dog Sledding , Reindeer Sledding and much more! In summer , Tromsø and its surroundings are the perfect place for boat trips, road trips, nature walks and to admire the impressive Midnight Sun . Whatever the season, you will find all the advice you need on the best activities and how to choose the best tours from Tromsø.

What you will find in this guide to visiting Tromsø:

Best Things to Do in Tromsø

Tromsø museums, attractions & places to visit, best things to do in tromsø in winter (roughly october to march), best things to do in tromsø in summer (roughly april to september), day trips from tromsø, how to get to tromsø, tromsø sunrise and sunset calendar (month by month), faqs about visiting tromsø, chasing the northern lights in tromsø.

The Northern Lights are one of the most beautiful things you could see in your life. Magic lights dancing in the sky, in soft shades of greenish-yellow, purple and blue. When I lived in Tromsø , I loved to go to the woods, to the edge of the fjords or to the huts in the mountains, and spend time contemplating the beauty, the magnificence, the peace of the Northern Lights.

Tromsø is one of the most famous places in the world to see the Northern Lights . From September to April you can chase them every night, especially between 9pm and 2am, which are usually the best hours.

Actually, the area around Tromsø is good for seeing the Northern Lights , but it’s not the best. This is essentially due to two reasons: it is a fairly large town, so the street lights make it more difficult to get a decent view (and photograph) of the Northern Lights, and it is located on the ocean, which often makes its sky cloudy, preventing you from seeing the Northern Lights.

This is why, if you want to see the best Northern Lights , you will need to go to the most remote areas around Tromsø , along the fjords or in the forests, to the inland mountains or to the most remote islands, away from the city lights. The further inland you go, the higher your chances of getting clear skies . Along the coast it is quite common to have cloudy skies, which obstruct the view of the Northern Lights.

In Tromsø there are some specialized operators who offer excellent Northern Lights Tours : these are local guides with a long experience, they are often expert photographers and have a deep knowledge of the territory, the Northern Lights, the Arctic environment and the local culture.

They will allow you to see the best Northern Lights, as they have the most up-to-date and sophisticated information from observatories and meteorologists, as well as a communication network that allows guides to receive information on the areas with the most favorable weather to see the Northern Lights . Not infrequently, tours go beyond the Finnish border to allow you to see them. You may have to travel 300 km before you can spot them, but when you see them, every effort will be well rewarded.

Below you will find a curated selection of the BEST Northern Lights tours in Tromsø , offered by top specialist operators, boasting expert local guides and decades of honorable service. But be warned, this is by far the most popular thing to do in Tromsø, so it is highly advisable to book well in advance !

Northern Lights Tour from Tromsø with an Expert Local Guide

The most popular thing to do in Tromsø is join one of the Northern Lights Tours which every night – roughly from mid-September to early April – allow travelers, photographers and enthusiasts to chase the best and most beautiful Northern Lights.

This is the most classic option: it is a guided tour held in small groups and led by 1-2 experienced licensed guides and an experienced local driver. A minibus will pick you up in Tromsø city center (usually near the harbor) and take you to some scenic spots around Tromsø where the chance to spot the Northern Lights is highest. These change from night to night depending on the weather conditions: guides have experience, skills and tools to identify the best areas.

Sometimes, if the area around Tromsø isn’t good enough to see the Northern Lights, guides will take you to the heart of Finnish Lapland or some remote inland areas. Guides will do their best to allow you to see the best Northern Lights, which you might not otherwise be able to see without their help.

Northern Lights Tours usually last 7-8 hours , depending on the weather conditions and the time needed to reach the most suitable areas for sighting the Northern Lights. The guides will be able to help you take pictures and set up your camera correctly. Usually they too will take some pictures of you with the Northern Lights, which will be sent to you after a few hours!

You will also be able to benefit from special suits and thermal equipment , designed to keep you warm during the activity, and you can borrow one of their professional photo tripods for free to take your photos. You will usually spend a few hours outdoors, around a bonfire, waiting for the Northern Lights. In the meantime, your guides will tell you stories, legends and will be happy to answer all your questions about the Northern Lights and local culture. At the end of the tour they will take you back to Tromsø. This is arguably the safest , most affordable and carefree way to spot the Northern Lights in Tromsø , but it’s also the most popular, so book early!

An excellent alternative, especially if you want to hone your Northern Lights photography skills , is the Northern Lights Tour with Photographer . Other good and cheaper alternatives could be this , this and this .

Tromsø Northern Lights Photo Cruise

If you want a more relaxed experience, then you could opt for a Tromsø Northern Lights Photo Cruise : a night boat ride through the scenic fjords around Tromsø. Depending on the weather report the captain will choose the best route to get clear skies and the highest chance of seeing the Northern Lights .

You will be able to enjoy a relaxed chase of the Northern Lights, enjoying a peaceful cruise (hot drinks, biscuits and thermal winter suits are provided for free) and relaxing under the stars, in the amazing outdoor jacuzzi or in the sauna located on the deck of the ship. And when the captain spots the Northern Lights , he will slow down the boat, slowly drifting along with the current. So that you can fully enjoy the Northern Lights dance, and snap photos.

Dog Sledding Experiences in Tromsø

Dog sledding is one of the most popular activities in Northern Norway – locals love it, and in the area around Tromsø there are several husky farms that offer the chance to meet these adorable dogs and experience the exciting dog sledding experience .

By participating in a Husky Dog Sledding Adventure , expert local guides will pick you up in Tromsø and take you to a nearby husky farm located on the island of Kvaløya . Here you can meet over 130 adorable Alaskan huskies . You will learn a lot about dog sledding and the discipline of dog mushing , which in Norway is a kind of national sport.

The best time for dog sledding in Tromsø is between November and early April , when there is still enough snow. Dog sledding is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Tromsø, so make sure you don’t miss it! No skills are required , so you can participate even if it’s your first time! Furthermore, it is a family-friendly activity , although recommended for kids over 7 years old.

Each sled requires two people: one is the musher , the one who commands the sled and the team of dogs, the other is the passenger . Halfway through the route, we usually switch roles, so that both can experience the thrill of driving a dog sled! However, if you are traveling with the kids, you can choose to ride the dog sled all the way, while the kids can enjoy the experience as a passenger, which is just as beautiful and exciting!

You will be able to pamper dogs and find out about their personality. For dogs, dog sledding is a fun activity, and each dog has its own personality and natural role within the team. After meeting your team, usually made up of 6-8 specially trained dogs , you can set off on your dog sledding adventure through breathtaking snowy valleys.

In approximately 1.5 hours you will reach a Sami camp , where you will be welcomed into a lavvu , the traditional tent of the Sami people, the natives of Lapland . Here you can enjoy a hot drink and a delicious piece of homemade cake. You will spend time with the locals, sitting around the cozy fireplace, and it will be a good opportunity to learn more about the Sami and the peoples of Northern Norway . The tour includes round-trip transport, an English-speaking guide, and all necessary equipment, including warm arctic suits and boots.

For a truly unforgettable experience , you could opt for a Dogsledding Evening at Camp Tamok . Locals love the evening dog sledding. Sure, you won’t be able to enjoy the fabulous daytime landscapes, but you may well spot the Northern Lights if you’re lucky enough. In fact, daytime and evening dogsledding are two very different experiences, and both are very beautiful. If you have the chance, I recommend you try them both!

Tromsø Fjord Cruises

Another must-do in Tromsø is a nice fjord cruise , which will allow you to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the fjords and islands around Tromsø . You will sail in the dramatic scenery of the Arctic Ocean, between landscapes covered with snow and ice and scenic sounds, narrow and islets dotted with tiny fishing villages.

Tromsø Fjord Cruises are held all year round , in winter you can enjoy the magical snowy landscape, while in summer you can enjoy the stunning views of the green islands dominated by steep and peaky mountains, as well as spot a large number of seabirds, such as eagles , puffins and seals !

Tromsø Wildlife Fjord Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

One of the most popular things to do in Tromsø is the Wildlife Fjord Cruise with Lunch and Drinks . You will enjoy a 5-hour cruise on the Arctic Ocean , explore the most beautiful fjords around Tromsø and see some of the main attractions along the coast, such as fishing villages and even a submarine bunker from the Cold War.

This is a relaxed and family-friendly activity . The guides will allow you to discover many interesting things about the geography of Northern Norway and the local wildlife and culture. You can try your hand at fishing (gear provided free) and spotting sea eagles and many other sea birds, as well as killer whales , beluga whales , porpoises , seals and more. You can also relax with a good lunch , based on local seafood.

Tromsø Arctic Fjord Cruise by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

Another great fjord cruise around Tromsø is the Arctic Fjord Cruise by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran . It is similar to the previous one, but does not include lunch on board and is more suitable for those who want a more ethical and green experience , as the boat tour is mainly designed for the sighting of arctic fauna , sea birds and local culture .

The tour is held with a hybrid-electric catamaran , which allows you to switch to the silent engine in the vicinity of whales or other animals, so as not to scare them. No fishing activities are planned, while you will visit some authentic small fishing villages , some active fisheries and modern fish farms and some ancient island communities on the outside of Kvaløya , the island also known as “Whale Island” . Here you can get in touch with the local culture, and learn more about life in Northern Norway.

Tromsø Arctic Sailing Safari

This will be an experience you will love! The Tromsø Arctic Sailing Safari is the most immersive fjord cruise around Tromsø , lasting around 5 hours and only held in small groups. You will set sail on a sailing catamaran and your licensed professional skipper will take you through some of the most scenic fjords around Tromsø .

Along the way you will be able to see seals , orcas , eagles and other sea birds . You will cross excellent fishing areas , and you will be able to try your hand at Arctic fishing . They will provide you with everything you need, including thermal gear that will keep you warm. You will be able to try to catch some fish, which will be used to make a delicious fish soup . On the way back you will enjoy a good lunch based mainly on the catch of the day, served in the warmth of the catamaran cabin.

Whale watching in Tromsø and Skjervøy

The more remote fjords around Tromsø are one of the best places in the world for whale watching . Between early November and early February , hundreds of cetaceans arrive in the calm waters north and northeast of Tromsø, attracted by the abundance of herring and plankton they feed on.

Until about ten years ago, whales were easily spotted in the vicinity of Tromsø , so much so that the large island just north of the city is called Kvaløya , which means Whale Island . Now, due to climate change and increased maritime traffic around Tromsø, whales have moved to some more remote areas, especially near the small fishing village of Skjervøy , located about 200km northeast of Tromsø.

Excellent whale watching tours by hybrid-electric catamaran depart from Tromsø , lasting around 8-9 hours . These tours are carried out with a specially designed boat : when the boat is close enough to the whales, the captain switches to a super-silent electric engine , so as to allow you to spot whales in an ethical and sustainable way .

The whales will not be disturbed or frightened by the boat, so they will continue to swim and feed, allowing you to see them at their best. The crews are highly experienced and specially trained , have tools to locate whales and know the best areas to go. So the chances of spotting whales on a tour are very high. Make sure you bring your camera!

For an even better experience , you might want to check out the exciting RIB Boat Whale Watching Tour on Skjervøy . Expert guides will take you to the beautiful island of Skjervøy , set in a breathtaking landscape, on one of the most remote fjords in Northern Norway , surrounded by uninhabited islands covered with high mountains and glaciers.

The RIB Boat allows a small group to explore the more remote areas of the fjord, a perfect place for whale watching . The small boat, unlike the large ones used for classic tours, will allow you to get closer to the cetacean colonies, which are not stressed by small boats.

Arctic Experience: Overnight Lavvu Stay with Fjords, Whales & Aurora

If you are visiting Tromsø in the winter, you may want to opt for an Arctic Experience (Overnight Lavvu Stay with Fjords, Whales & Aurora) that combines some of the best things to do around Tromsø in one tour. You will enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the fjords around Tromsø , enjoy the unforgettable RIB Boat tour to Skjervøy to spot whales, porpoises, orcas and humpback whales.

You will explore the magical landscapes of the remote Kvaenangen Fjord , then continue on to the Lyngen Alps , overlooking the fabulous Lyngenfjord . Here you can stay overnight in a private crystal lavvu , a modern reinterpretation of the traditional lavvu , the typical tent of the peoples of Lapland. Your lavvu will be warm, cozy and comfortable, with a transparent glass roof , perfect for seeing the Northern Lights .

Enjoy a delicious dinner of homemade local food , then spend the evening watching the Northern Lights . You will also be able to participate in a short photo workshop on how to take great shots of the Northern Lights . In the morning, a generous breakfast will be waiting for you, and then you will be driven back to Tromsø. This experience is quite in demand and availability is very limited, so book early!

Experience Lapp Culture: Reindeer and Sami Culture

When in Tromsø you shouldn’t miss the chance to learn more about the local culture . You could join an exciting reindeer farm tour , where you can experience the magic of reindeer sledding and meet some Sami people dressed in their traditional clothes.

The Sami are the native people of Lapland . The lands of the far north of Scandinavia are the native territory of these nomadic peoples , who are mostly reindeer herders . Lapland extends over much of Northern Norway , Northern Sweden and Finland . Even though their traditional way of life is threatened by progress and modernity today, the Sami seek to protect their cultural roots and traditions.

I personally lived and worked with some Sami people , nowadays most of them are perfectly integrated into modern society. They live, work and dress like every other Norwegian, so don’t expect to find Sami in traditional costume around Norway, except at tourist attractions. In fact, some nomadic herders still exist , but it won’t be easy to meet them, as they live in the most remote areas of Lapland .

The Sami are very proud of their origins, they boast an exciting history and culture (it is not easy to live in such extreme lands!) and their traditional costumes are truly wonderful: finely decorated in blue, red and white colors. The Sami people use to dress traditionally on special occasions and on traditional holidays. Hence, a traveler should not miss the chance to meet them , to see their wonderful traditional clothing and to learn more about their history and culture.

Visiting a traditional reindeer farm you can meet hundreds of wild reindeer : these animals are much loved and respected, you will be able to see for yourself how cute and affectionate they are. You can even feed them from your hands , an unmissable experience if you are traveling with kids.

Also you can experience a magical reindeer sled ride , but don’t expect a long ride, as it is usually just about ten minutes or half an hour ride. You will meet the Sami and warm up around the fire inside a candle lit gamme (traditional Sami hut). You can also enjoy a traditional Sami stew cooked over the open fire , then join your host in a lavvu (Sami tent) and gather round the fire to listen to stories about Sami culture.

You can opt for a daytime experience , or for an evening one . Personally I prefer the evening one , as the atmosphere of the Sami camp in the evening is truly unforgettable and will be one of the highlights of your trip . And maybe, you will also be able to see the Northern Lights , as the Sami camp is a good place to spot them!

Experience the thrill of a Snowmobile Safari

Locals love snowmobiling! In winter it is very popular and wandering the countryside around Tromsø it will be quite common to see people in snowmobiles. Do as the locals do, experience the thrill of a snowmobile safari among the breathtaking snowy landscapes of Northern Norway !

You could join a snowmobile safari in the beautiful Lyngen Alps , a mountainous area that boasts scenic valleys , steep mountains and stunning fjord views . This is one of the best spots for a snowmobile safari, as there are many miles of trails and opportunities for driving through forests, snow-covered valleys and along fjords and rivers.

Each snowmobile carries 2 people, one as a driver and one as a passenger , and along the route – which takes 2 hours – there is plenty of opportunities to switch places. The experience is also suitable for beginners , is led by licensed expert guides, includes round-trip transport from Tromsø, and you will be provided with everything you need, including warm suits and boots . Plus, you can also enjoy a good lunch or dinner at a camp that will be the end point of your safari.

You can opt for a morning snowmobile safari , or an evening snowmobile safari . They are quite similar, and even if the evening one is a bit more impressive, I prefer the one in the morning , as it allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Lyngen Alps to the fullest.

Stay overnight at Tromsø Ice Domes: Tromsø’s wonderful ice hotel

For an unforgettable holiday and to fully experience the magical atmosphere of the Far North , you could opt for a stay at the wonderful Tromsø Ice Domes . Highly recommended especially for couples , this all-inclusive experience combines a stay in a magical ice hotel with some of the best activities to do in Tromsø.

An English-speaking guide will pick you up in Tromsø and take you near Camp Tamok , after 1.5 hours of driving through the beautiful mountainous landscapes south of Tromsø. The enchanting Tamok Valley is located in the heart of Norwegian Lapland , nestled between scenic mountains and crisscrossed by rushing streams, just a few kilometers from the Swedish and Finnish borders. This is a perfect place to spot the Northern Lights !

The Tromsø Ice Domes is located right next to Camp Tamok, and is an ice hotel that is rebuilt every year , as it melts in the spring. It has a heated area, with all the necessary facilities: bathrooms, showers, restaurant and so on, and a part of ice, with ice domes – double rooms made of ice, where guests will sleep on a real mattress, but at a temperature around -5 °C. They will give you a polar expedition sleeping bag and everything you need to sleep warm and comfortably.

Once there you will join a guided tour of the ice hotel , which boasts hundreds of ice sculptures . You will learn more about how it is built and you can also enjoy a drink in the ice bar . Your experience staying at Tromsø Ice Domes also includes a snowshoe hike (special winter clothing and all necessary gear for the activities are provided), which will allow you to reach some remote areas in the surroundings, where you can admire the Northern Lights sitting around a bonfire.

Also included will be a delicious 3-course dinner , featuring regional cuisine, served in an atmospheric and warm restaurant. In the morning, after a hearty breakfast , you can enjoy a 1.5-hour dog sledding tour through the beautiful snow-covered valleys. It will be a truly unforgettable experience! Finally, enjoy a delicious traditional meal around an open fire in a traditional Sami tent , and relax a little longer before returning to Tromsø.

Staying in one of the few rooms of this ice masterpiece will be the highlight of your once-in-a-lifetime winter adventure . You will only be able to live this experience in winter, as it is only open from the beginning of December to the end of March . But you’ll have to be lucky enough to find availability! In fact, the ice hotel has only a few rooms, meaning you will share this 600 m² ice hotel with only a limited amount of other guests. This makes it the ideal place to celebrate a special occasion with your loved one in a setting of your dreams. But it will be essential to book early!

Otherwise, if you just want to take a look at the famous Tromsø Ice Domes and enjoy the views of the beautiful surrounding natural landscape, you may just want to opt for a day tour to the Tromsø Ice Domes which will allow you to see the iconic ice hotel , enjoy a drink at the ice bar and visit a reindeer farm in the fabulous Tamok Valley . Here you can meet reindeer up close, and relax with hot drinks and a delicious traditional stew before returning to Tromsø.

THE ARCTIC CATHEDRAL

Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral is an impressive modern-style church built in 1965 . You can’t miss it, as it is clearly visible from Tromsø harbor, from the promenade that runs alongside Tromsøysundet – the strait on which the island of Tromsøya stands, where Tromsø is situated – and by the hillocks that drape the old town.

With its iconic shape, Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral is one of the first things that catches the eye of those arriving, no matter if from the sea or the land, as it overlooks the strait, but also the main road to the city center. This makes it one of its best known landmarks, it is featured on all postcards and brochures, and is easily recognizable by its Christmas tree shape or, as architecture books say, shaped like an iceberg or lavvu , the traditional tent of the Sami people.

The church is located on the Tromsdalen side, so to get there from the city center you will have to cross the iconic Bruvegen Bridge , the bridge that crosses the strait and connects Tromsø to the mainland. You can walk around it, as there is a comfortable sidewalk separate from the roadway. It is just over a kilometer long and offers a nice view over the strait and the port of Tromsø. In winter it could be windy and uncomfortable, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral – whose name Ishavskatedralen literally means “The Cathedral of the Arctic Sea” – was designed by Jan Inge Hovig , who was one of Norway’s foremost architects, and maintains the classic architectural elements of Norwegian long churches, innovated through the massive use of concrete, glass, steel and aluminum. On the eastern side – that is, the one behind the church – features a huge glass mosaic . The interiors are minimal, and the only notable elements are the organ and the chandeliers.

The church belongs to the Church of Norway and can be visited for a fee (55 NOK). However, you can take a peek through the windows, which is more than enough. Occasionally, the church also hosts temporary exhibitions, while a nice thing to do is attend one of the organ and choir concerts . Notable are the Midnight Concerts and also the Christmas and New Year’s Eve concerts (tickets from 350-400 NOK).

Tromsø Old Town (Free Self-Guided Walking Tour Itinerary)

Spread over a handful of gentle terraced hillocks interspersed with a maze of steep streets, Tromsø’s city center is one of Norway’s prettiest. Its beautiful houses with their façades in light pastel shades, climb the hills, gaining an enviable view of the strait and the high peaks of Tromsdalstinden , the mountain that rises in front of the town.

Its compact city center is easily explored on foot, and you can get from one end to the other in less than half an hour. The real heart of Tromsø is its old town , nestled around the harbor. Here modern architecture coexists with fabulous wooden houses that were once the home of merchants, hunters and fishermen.

These lands, once populated mostly by the Sami – the people of Lapland – were a major Arctic trade center until the early 1900s. Tromsø merchants traded from Russia’s Arctic ports to France, and the surrounding region bordered directly on Russia and Karelia . In the early 1900s, Tromsø was a quiet town with a bustling trading port . From here originated some of the most important Arctic expeditions , and it was common for explorers – such as Umberto Nobile , Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen – to recruit their crews in the city.

Even today, Tromsø is a gateway to the Far North, towards the Svalbard Islands . Traces of its past are evident walking through the old town, which boasts one of the biggest concentration of historic wooden houses in Norway, mostly dating back to the period between the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 20th century. You can see them walking along Storgata and Skippergata .

These two parallel boulevards are mitigated by the breeze blowing from the sea, and seem to pulsate with life radiating from the nearby harbor, which spews out waves of tourists twice a day. Just turn onto Kirkegata , the perpendicular boulevard that runs alongside the Tromsø Domkirke , to arrive at the Hurtigruten pier. Even today it is the small port that animates the city: the Hurtigruten coastal express ships calls the port of Tromsø twice a day, one along the northbound route and the other along the southbound one.

Don’t miss its arrival in port! Even today as in the past – when it mainly transported mail and goods – the Hurtigruten ships as they approach the port of Tromsø sound the siren several times to greet the city and warn travelers. Until the mid-1900s, when the regions of Northern Norway were still quite remote and difficult to reach, Hurtigruten ships were the fastest, if not the only, way to travel from port to port and connect the cities of the south with the far north.

This has been reflected in recent history and local culture , making Tromsø closer and more integrated to the rest of Norway, and marking the rhythms of local life. Especially in summer, the city comes alive when ships dock in port: cruises, vessels and fishing boats loaded with travelers and goods.

But Tromsø is not only a bustling crossroads of people traveling to the far north, but also the largest town in the vast surrounding region , which is mostly made up of villages, small towns and remote rural areas. Therefore, especially on weekends, Tromsø is teeming with locals from all over the surrounding region. It is not uncommon for locals to drive over 2-300km to get here from their villages.

In fact, Tromsø is the largest administrative center in Northern Norway , it has the most important airport, but it is also full of good and well-stocked shops of all kinds, trendy restaurants and bars, shopping centers and large supermarkets. So, people come here to shop and have fun!

Storgata is the main street of Tromsø: a straight avenue that from the Tromsø Bridge leads to the modern town south of the old town, near the Polaria aquarium. It is lined with shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. It is really nice to walk here, whatever the season. Along Storgata – or a short walk from it – you will find most of Tromsø’s attractions and most of its historic buildings.

Check out the Verdensteatret , the fabulous cinema recognizable by the “Kinematograf” sign, which was built in 1915 and is Northern Europe’s oldest cinema still in use. Its interiors boast some large wall paintings, made by the local artist Sverre Mack in 1921, which picture scenes from Norwegian folklore and fairy tales. Most foreign films are screened in their original language, mostly in English with Norwegian subtitles.

Tromsø is also famous for its Tromsø International Film Festival , held every year in mid-January: open air events, screenings and movie nights are held scattered in the squares around Storgata , and especially around the Kulturhuset Tromsø – which usually hosts exhibitions, plays and concerts – and at the large and modern Aurora Fokus Cinema , located in the large glass building which also houses the Tromsø Town Hall (Tromsø Rådhus) . If you visit Tromsø on festival days, book your hotel well in advance, as they tend to be fully booked and rates soar.

Right in front of the Tromsø Town Hall you will be able to see a small square with the King Haakon statue and a concert pavilion . The old wooden building behind the pavilion is the former town hall , dating from 1864, which now houses a small theater and exhibition space. The main attraction of the square, however, is the Pro-Cathedral of Our Lady (Vår Frue Domkirke i Tromsø) , dating from 1861. This beautifully preserved small neo-Gothic style church belongs to the Roman Catholic Church and is the northernmost Catholic cathedral in the world . The adjacent Episcopal House , dating from 1832, also hosted Pope John Paul II during his visit to Tromsø in 1989.

Especially in winter, make a stop at the small kiosk Raketten Bar & Pølse , on the corner of the square and Storgata , which serves reindeer hot dogs, mulled wine, hot chocolate and other good specialties (even some vegetarian options), and it’s a quite atmospheric place, with the best view on the square. The adjacent square is called Stortorget , and is Tromsø’s main meeting point. In the square you can easily recognize the statue of the Arctic Hunter (Fangstmonument) .

Tromsø City Library, Grønnegata and Sjøgata

Just behind the Tromsø Town Hall you can see another iconic building of the town: the Tromsø City Library and Archive , a masterpiece of contemporary Norwegian architecture. Its shape is reminiscent of sails inflated by the wind, while the glass walls make it transparent, luminous, creating a sense of continuity between the outside – the city – and the inside, which represents culture and knowledge.

You will not miss it, as with its large and bright windows it dominates the Grønnegata boulevard and the picturesque Cora Sandels Gate street, which leads to the harbor and the lively Sjøgata area. Here is one of the best waterfront promenades, which is the main starting point for tours and activities, as well as some of the best hotels in the town , such as the Scandic Ishavshotel , the Clarion Collection Hotel With , the Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø and the Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora , all with fabulous views.

Troll Museum and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum

Adjacent to the hotels is the cruise port and the Hurtigruten terminal , as well as some of the best restaurants and bars in the city , some set in beautifully restored historic buildings with a contemporary twist. Just across the harbor are some small museums and galleries, such as the Troll Museum (adult tickets NOK 180, children NOK 100), where you can learn more about the famous Norwegian mythological creatures and traditional Norwegian fairytales. It could be an interesting stop if you are traveling with kids, otherwise just skip it.

Worthy of note is the nearby Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum (tickets from 80 NOK, admission may be free on some occasions), which houses an interesting – albeit small – collection of local modern and contemporary art, as well as some interesting temporary exhibitions. Opposite the Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum you can see the statue of the famous polar explorer Roald Amundsen , and right across the street is the famous Magic Ice Bar Tromsø , serving frozen cocktails in ice glasses, in a venue full of ice sculptures.

Tromsø Cathedral (Tromsø Domkirke)

Returning to Storgata you will see the main attraction of the old town, the beautiful Tromsø Cathedral (Tromsø Domkirke) , completed in 1861 and not to be confused with the modern Arctic Cathedral. This beautiful yellow, wooden Lutheran cathedral of the Church of Norway was built in a long church format and in the Gothic Revival style by the architect Christian Heinrich Grosch , one of the most prominent Norwegian architects of the 19th century. It is considered the northernmost Protestant cathedral in the world , as well as one of Norway’s biggest wooden churches. If you find it open (go there in the late morning – early afternoon) take a look at its beautiful wooden interiors. Occasionally, atmospheric organ concerts are also held.

Ølhallen – the oldest pub in Tromsø – and the Old Mack Brewery

From the Domkirke continue south on Storgata until you reach the Polaria aquarium. Along the way you will see the Ølhallen , the oldest pub in Tromsø , set in a beautiful historic building from the late 19th century, set in a restored former industrial complex. This is a must for beer enthusiasts, as this was the northernmost brewery in the world until 2012 .

Mack Bryggeri (Mack Brewery) was founded in Tromsø in 1877 by Ludwig Markus Mack , and although the factory is now outside Tromsø, a stop at his pub and the nearby Kjeller 5 beer store is one of the nicest and most original things to do in Tromsø if you like beer. Starting from Kjeller 5, where you can find all the products that are available from Mack Brewery, as well as everything you need to try your hand at home brewing, from equipment to ingredients, and various souvenirs, such as personalized beer bottles, you can then go to Ølhallen , which is the real attraction.

Once simply called “The Hall” by locals, Mack’s brewpub Ølhallen opened in 1928 and, in addition to original and atmospheric interiors, boasts one of the largest tap selection in Europe serving Norwegian quality beer from 72 taps ! The beers (and alcohol in general in Norway) aren’t cheap, but it’s worth going there just to see it, as well as for some great pints! If you visit Tromsø over Christmas go for their Christmas Beer , which is hugely popular with the locals! Macks Ølbryggeri also organizes guided tours of the old brewery and some of the perfectly preserved rooms that were the offices and home of Ludwig Mack and his family, as well as interesting beer tastings.

Opposite Ølhallen you can also take a look at Blåst Glasshytta i Tromsø (Blown Glass Factory in Tromsø) an artisan shop that produces and sells blown glass art. Just beyond the brewery you will see a large historic building from the early 1900s surrounded by a lush garden, this is the Tromsø Center for Contemporary Art (Tromsø Kunstforening) , home of the Tromsø Art Association . It hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, admission is free. Right across the street you will find one of Tromsø’s most famous attractions: the Polaria Aquarium .

POLARIA: THE ARCTIC AQUARIUM

One of the best things to do in Tromsø, especially for families, is a visit to Polaria , the world’s most northerly aquarium . This aquarium is quite different than any you would find anywhere else in the world, as it is primarily focused on Arctic wildlife , and is primarily designed to be an interactive, kid-friendly educational experience.

Polaria is a small aquarium located in a striking building of modern architecture, which represents represents ice floes that have been pressed up on land by the rough seas of the Arctic, and in a sense echoes the Arctic Cathedral, located on the opposite shore. Many of Polaria’s exhibits are focused on the Svalbard Islands and the far north of the Arctic. These remote, unspoiled and wild islands are in fact some of the northernmost and furthest lands in the Arctic, and Tromsø is somehow the base camp to get there.

The Svalbard Islands are a paradise for Arctic wildlife lovers, as they are home to polar bears, seals, several species of seabirds and several strange aquatic organisms, many of which you can see in Polaria . You will be able to see dozens of species of fish, molluscs, crustaceans and so on, and you can even touch them: there are special tactile tanks , where you can touch some fish and other marine organisms.

But the real draw is the seals : Polaria has a huge tank that is home to a family of seals. Through transparent underwater tunnels that pass inside the tank, bridges and windows you will be able to see the seals swimming one step away from you. Don’t miss the feeding of seals , which usually takes place at 10.30, 12.30 and 15.30. These animals are adorable, and I would have spent hours admiring them!

The visit to Polaria also includes watching a couple of documentary films on the mind-blowing Svalbard Islands (the documentary is titled Svalbard – Arctic Wilderness ) and on the queen of all Tromsø attractions: the Northern Lights .

Polaria in Tromsø is open daily from 10.00 to 16.00, tickets from 210 NOK (adults) or 105 NOK (children).

MS Polstjerna

Next to Polaria you will be able to see – protected by a glass building – the MS Polstjerna , Norway’s best-preserved sealing ship . Seal hunting has long been a major business in the Arctic, and a major source of livelihood for locals.

Between 1949 and 1981 this ship had 33 fishing seasons and harvested close to 100,000 seals from the West Ice and East Ice , the inhospitable areas of the Greenland Sea (to the west) and the White Sea and Barents Sea (to the east) covered by pack ice during winter time. The wonderfully preserved ship is a piece of local history, and is now a museum, owned by The Arctic University Museum of Norway .

The ship is currently only visible from the outside, as the museum is closed for maintenance. In front of MS Polstjerna you will be able to see a statue of Helmer Hanssen , who was Roald Amundsen’s assistant on three polar explorations and was one of the first five explorers to reach the South Pole.

Polarmuseet: The Polar Museum in Tromsø

The Polarmuseet , or Polar Museum of Tromsø , is one of the most interesting museums in the town, even if it is quite small. Located in an 1830s warehouse on the seafront, this museum tells the story of arctic hunters and explorers.

This is a historical museum , so be prepared to see lots of stuffed animals and gory hunting scenes . The Polarmuseet is in fact part of The Arctic University Museum of Norway , and its purpose is to faithfully depict how local life was in the past. Tromsø was the “Gateway to the Arctic” and this meant that it was the base not only for polar expeditions, but also for hunting trips.

The Polar Museum in Tromsø preserves and conveys stories related to this aspect of the history of Tromsø and the Arctic, through dioramas and permanent exhibitions deal with sealing and overwintering trapping. At one time these, along with whaling and reindeer hunting, were the main jobs for the locals. Experienced sailors and hunters had a hard life on Svalbard, facing the pitfalls of the Arctic winter and polar nights.

But in addition to this dark and gory side of local history, you can also learn more about the exciting polar explorations , the expeditions of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen and the airship expeditions of the Italian explorer Umberto Nobile .

The Polarmuseet is open every day from 11.00 to 17.00. Tickets cost NOK 100, free admission for children and students.

Other Interesting Museums in Tromsø

Just in front of the Polar Museum you will be able to see a mound with a large yellow wooden house surrounded by a garden, called Skansen . This is the only remnant of the bastion that defended the town in the Middle Ages, against raids from Russia and Karelia. The wooden house is the oldest in Tromsø , built in 1789. It used to be a customs office, but it was also an epidemic hospital. You can just have a look at it from the outside, and wander among the surrounding picturesque houses, then return to Storgata and take a look at the Perspektivet Museum .

Perspektivet Museum

This museum boasts a large collection of contemporary and modern art, as well as an extensive photographic collection, featuring over 500,000 images that trace the history of the city from the early 1900s to the present day. It also hosts interesting events and temporary art and photography exhibitions. The Perspektivet Museum is housed in what was once the home of local writer Cora Sandel (1880–1974), and on the first floor is a small section of her on her life and her literary works.

Tromsø Museum

To see another interesting museum in Tromsø you will have to take a long walk, or take a bus. The Tromsø Museum , also known as The Arctic University Museum of Norway , is located about 3km south of the city center. You can get there with Bus n. 40 from the city center, the bus stop is right in front of the museum.

The Tromsø Museum is the most comprehensive museum of local history and culture and boasts very interesting permanent exhibits on the Sámi and Kvan peoples and natural history. You will see lots of artifacts, fossils, traditional costumes, as well as interesting permanent exhibits on ecclesiastical art and the links between Norwegian merchants and the Hanseatic League. Other interesting exhibits are those on the Northern Lights and those on the impact of man on nature and Arctic wildlife. It also often hosts interesting temporary exhibitions. You can check the updated opening hours on the museum website.

Tickets start at NOK 100, free admission for students and children. Combo ticket Tromsø Museum and Polar Museum from 150 NOK.

Tromsø Arctic – Alpine Botanical Garden

Another interesting venue of the Arctic University Museum of Norway is the Tromsø Arctic – Alpine Botanical Garden , located 6 km north of the city center, reachable by Bus n. 20, 21 or 22 leading to the modern campus of the Arctic University of Norway.

The University of Tromsø is the world’s northernmost university, as well as the city’s largest workplace, and its botanical garden focused on Arctic and alpine plants from all over the northern hemisphere, has the reputation of being the world’s northernmost botanic garden . It’s not something tourists usually come to see, but if you’re going to be in Tromsø for a long time, well then you might want to check it out. Also nearby is a science museum for kids, the Northern Norwegian Science Center , which also features a planetarium (including Northern Lights, of course).

Fjellheisen – Tromsø Cable Car

One of the most popular things to do in Tromsø is to climb the Storsteinen , the mountain ledge (420m) overlooking Tromsdalen , the suburb of Tromsø located on the mainland, on the opposite side from the city center. The Fjellheisen , also called Tromsø Cable Car , starts from sea level to reach the top of the mountain, where the upper station called Fjellstua is located.

Just behind the upper station there is an observation deck that will allow you to enjoy a sensational view over the city. With a short walk you can also reach another nearby viewpoint, the Tromsø Utkikkspunkt (Tromsø Viewpoint) . The view sweeps across the city: you will be able to see the entire island of Tromsøya , its iconic bridge, the harbor, the city center, the small lake behind the city center – called Prestvannet – and the large island of Kvaløya in the background, one of the largest in Norway, with its rugged snow-capped peaks.

This is indisputably the best view in Tromsø and one of the most stunning in Norway. From here you can also continue on one of the various hiking trails . Some, like the one for Mt. Tromsdalstinden (1,238m) are quite strenuous and long (approx. 5 hours), others are quite easy and allow you to go just a little further than the viewpoint, which can get crowded. So you can enjoy the view in peace, and contemplate the wonderful surrounding landscape in silence. In summer (approx. 20 May to 20 July) it is the perfect place to see the Midnight Sun !

An easy path will allow you to walk back down, saving on the ticket or allowing you to make the most of the midnight sun, as in summer the Tromsø Cable Car closes at midnight. Just walk south (to the right from the upper station) and follow the path that goes down. The trail will bring you back near the lower station, it is an easy walk, doable in half an hour.

Alternatively, there is a shorter but much steeper path which starts near the upper station, following the path on the left. This involves a stairway of 1,203 steps built by experienced workers from Nepal, and for this reason nicknamed Sherpatrappa or Sherpa Steps . The climb takes about 1-1.5 hours and does not require any special skills. The Sherpatrappa trailhead (GPS: 69.64161, 18.99335 ) is a 10-minute walk from the Tromsø Cable Car lower station car park, or a 15-minute walk from the Arctic Cathedral.

The Tromsø Cable Car opened in 1961 and is still one of the main attractions of the city. It can get quite crowded in the summer, as it is very popular with cruise-ship passengers. The cable car ride takes about 4 minutes and the tickets are a bit expensive : return tickets from 320 NOK (adults, approx. 32 €), one way 210 NOK (adults, approx. 21 €). Discounted tickets available for families, children and students. Prices are subject to change, as well as timetables , you can check them on the official website . Tickets can be purchased online or on site. It is not advisable to go with strollers, even if allowed. Parking at the lower station is subject to charges (from NOK 25 per hour).

Winter is the liveliest season in Tromsø! The typically subarctic climate is mitigated by its advantageous position, on an island nestled in the middle of a strait and surrounded by fjords and mountains. This is why in winter Tromsø is usually covered by a blanket of snow and temperatures are a few degrees below zero, but winter is less severe than inland , where temperatures frequently drop below -20 °C.

In winter, the days get shorter and shorter, so be prepared for little or no daylight hours. In Tromsø, the polar night season starts on November 27th and lasts until January 15th . During this period the sun never rises above the horizon.

However, contrary to what one might think, the polar night is not that dark. You will have enough light to visit the city and its surroundings , and have enough light to fully enjoy the main activities and tours, such as whale watching or fjord cruises . This is due to subtle twilight , which usually occurs from about 9 AM to 2 PM. This brightness, similar to what you can see just before sunrise, is enough to see and take amazing pictures!

In fact, the best months to visit Tromsø are in the heart of winter : between November and February you can experience all the best activities. Whales will flock to the fjords north of Tromsø and around Skjervøy and it’s the best season for a whale watching boat tour .

The Northern Lights will dance in the sky almost every night, which means it is a great time to chase the Northern Lights around Tromsø , while a thick blanket of snow will make the landscape enchanting and the atmosphere magical.

This is the ideal time for dog sledding and reindeer farm visits and you can also enjoy a nice reindeer sleigh ride , which is a must if you are traveling with the kids. It will also be the only time of year when you can experience the thrill of the snowmobile , go for a nice snowshoe hike through the arctic wilderness and enjoy the unparalleled views from the top of the Kvaløya mountains.

You will be able to try your hand at cross-country skiing around Breivikeidet and in the beautiful valleys south of Tromsø , you will be able to visit a camp of reindeer herders , meet these amazing animals up close and learn much more about the local culture and the history and traditions of the Sami people , the natives of Lapland. Finally, you can enjoy the peace and awe of a relaxed cruise through the beautiful fjords around Tromsø and enjoy an unforgettable stay at the famous Tromsø Ice Domes , Tromsø’s ice hotel .

In summer Tromsø wakes up from the torpor of the long winter and from April the days quickly get longer and longer. The snow melts, giving way to flowery meadows , green grasslands, waterfalls and streams in flood (and full of fish, especially salmon and trout ). The air smells of spring and optimism, the locals are happy for the end of the polar night and the arrival of milder temperatures .

This is undoubtedly the best time of year for a boat tour to the small and remote islands north of Tromsø . You will be able to skirt the large island of Kvaløya to reach the tiny islands of Gåsvær , Musvær and Risøya , a paradise for arctic lovers and bird watchers , as here you can spot eagles , cormorants , puffins , seals and porpoises . Sometimes even orcas and whales !

Locals love to go fishing, take long nature walks, swim in lakes and enjoy the best of outdoor activities : cycling, hiking, canoeing, kayaking and much more. The mountains around Tromsø, and especially those on the island of Kvaløya , are a popular destination for easy hikes . In short, summer is a great season to visit Tromsø! The big downside is that you won’t be able to experience the many amazing winter activities that make Tromsø a one-of-a-kind destination, but there is still a lot to do!

If you like to fish, this is a great season for a fishing boat trip in the fjords around Tromsø , also suitable for beginners, while families should not miss a day trip to a husky farm , to get the chance to take part in training and take a nice walk with the puppies .

From mid-May to the end of July you can see the Midnight Sun in Tromsø . The sun will never set from the 18th of May to the 25th of July, which means you will have plenty of time to enjoy the outdoor activities and stunning scenery of the fjords around Tromsø.

If you will be traveling to Tromsø in the summer, then you should definitely consider hiring a car and exploring the surroundings on your own : the Lyngen Alps , Senja and the beautiful wilderness on the border of Norway , Sweden and Finland . You could explore Reisa National Park , 270km southeast of Tromsø, or embark on an epic journey to the North Cape (Nordkapp) .

Just south you could visit the Vesterålen Islands (377km) or the stunning Lofoten Islands (420km). A road trip through the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Norway is the best thing you could do in Tromsø in the summer.

If you are short on time, or if you don’t want to rent a car and drive, you could opt for a comfortable 4×4 Arctic Roadtrip Guided Tour , which will allow you to see the most beautiful fjords and fishing villages around Tromsø , as well as have the chance to spot wildlife, such as moose , reindeer and eagles .

Tromsø itself can be easily visited in a couple of days, but most of the best things to do and activities are outside the town . No visit to Tromsø is complete without wandering around chasing the Northern Lights , experiencing the thrill of dogsledding or visiting a reindeer farm .

But above all, you can’t miss the breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding fjords , mountains and idyllic fishing villages scattered over the surrounding islands. Let’s go and discover some easy day trips from Tromsø , which will allow you to make the most of your trip to Northern Norway !

Kvaløya and Sommarøy

Kvaløya is the large island located just north of Tromsøya – the island on which Tromsø city center stands – and is a good place for an easy day trip. From the city center head to the airport and from there follow the Fv862 : a road bridge will take you to the suburb of Kvaløysletta . Continue to the small village of Kaldfjord , overlooking a peaceful fjord. Here you can take a look at the cute little Kvaløy Church , which is usually surrounded by a thick blanket of snow in winter.

Continue south on Fv858 to Hella , a small beach that is a popular fishing spot for catching cod and coalfish, boasting beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, just before Hella, on the right you will see a rock with large petroglyphs dating back to the Stone Age. From here you can continue along the road, the landscape is a bit monotonous but still pleasant. After about 40 km you will have to turn left to take the road towards Sommarøy .

Connected by a scenic road bridge, the island of Sommarøy is the most beautiful around Tromsø. It is a small island surrounded by white sandy beaches and an emerald ocean. Its pleasant relaxed atmosphere, typical of the fishing villages of Northern Norway, and its convenient location, away from the street lights of Tromsø, make it a good destination for a pleasant stay , and maybe you can try to spot the Northern Lights . There is a great hotel on Sommarøy , the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel Tromsø , which is actually hugely popular, so book early.

Returning back, take the Fv862 back to Nordfjordbotn and from there continue towards Ersfjordbotn . The road crosses a green valley interspersed with a few small lakes, and then arrives at the small fishing village of Ersfjordbotn, which has a nice fjord view, a small but pretty waterfall and a nice café, the Bryggejentene , which is enormously popular among both locals and tourists. From Ersfjordbotn you can drive back to Tromsø in half an hour. On the way out you could also skip Hella and drive straight to Sommarøy, which would save you around 20 km (30 minutes of driving).

To do this day trip you will need a car , or you can take Bus n. 420 from downtown Tromsø to Sommarøy, the bus stop is located near the Tromsø tourist office. You can find the bus timetable here .

Lyngen Alps and the Lyngenfjord

One of the best day trips you could take from Tromsø is to the Lyngen Alps , steep and rugged mountains located about 80 km east of Tromsø. It will take you about 2 hours of driving to get there and this involves a ferry crossing from Breidvik to Svensby . This trip is even more beautiful than the previous one: the Fv91 runs through a scenic valley until it comes out on a fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

From Svensby you will skirt a narrow sound until arriving at Lyngseidet , which is the main starting point for exploring the Lyngen Alps . In the surroundings there are some hiking trails that allow you to climb the surrounding mountains and enjoy sublime views. In winter this is also a popular ski resort.

From Lyngseidet you could take a detour to the remote and picturesque fishing village of Koppangen , or take another ferry to Olderdalen , located on the opposite bank of Lyngenfjord , one of the most beautiful and famous fjords in Northern Norway. You will also be able to visit Aurora Spirit , the northernmost whiskey distillery in the world, which offers interesting guided tours and tastings.

It is highly recommended to stay overnight in the surrounding area to enjoy the fabulous views and peaceful atmosphere. Some good options are Solheim Fritidsgård , Aurora Fjord Cabins , Koppangen Brygger , Olderdalen Ski Camp , and Viking Cabins Solvik .

☞ You can find here a comprehensive guide to visiting the Lyngen Alps and Lyngenfjord .

From Tromsø to the North Cape and detours to Skjervoy and Reisa National Park

Things get serious in Olderdalen : you can choose whether to go north or south.

The road north takes you to the small town of Storslett (45 minutes drive from Olderdalen), from where you can explore the beautiful Reisa National Park . With a detour from the main road E6 you can reach the remote fishing village of Skjervoy (1.5 hours drive from Olderdalen), the road to Skjervoy is very scenic! Otherwise you could try to conquer the far north, heading towards Alta and from there to the North Cape (Nordkapp) ! From Tromsø to Alta it is 380 km (6 hours), while from Tromsø to the North Cape it is 620 km (9 hours).

From Olderdalen to Tromsø and detours to Skibotn, Finland and Sweden

If in Olderdalen you choose to go south along the E6 , you can return to Tromsø by a different and slightly longer route (180 km, 2.5 hours), which skirts the Lyngenfjord until you reach the Balsfjorden , the same fjord on which the island of Tromsø.

In Skibotn , a small village famous for being one of the best places to see the Northern Lights , you can continue along the E8 , a breathtaking scenic road that leads to Finland . From Skibotn to Kilpisjärvi , the first village after the Finnish border, it is 50 km (45 minutes drive).

Here you are in the heart of Lapland : Kilpisjärvi and the villages along the E8 to the town of Karesuvanto are among the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights . Just think that, if necessary, the tours from Tromsø even drive here to allow you to see the best Northern Lights! From Karesuvanto a bridge will allow you to visit the pretty village of Karesuando , in Sweden .

Staying here could be the highlight of your trip to the Far North – some great options are Arctic Land Adventure Glass Igloos , Tundrea Holiday Resort , Cahkal Hotel , and Saivaara Cottages . Booking well in advance is essential!

The remote, distant and small island of Skjervøy is constantly lashed by winds and storms, and until the early 1990s it was only accessible by boat. Now an undersea tunnel that reaches a depth of −92.5 meters and a scenic yet slender bridge connect it to the mainland, so you can get there by car.

Famous for being in one of the best whale watching areas in the world , overlooking the Kvænangenfjord and nestled in an idyllic landscape of mostly uninhabited islands and high glacier-covered mountains, Skjervøy is one of the ideal day trip destinations day trip from Tromsø. Actually, if you don’t go there with your car or a guided tour, it will be quite difficult to get there and back in the day.

There is an express boat from Tromsø to Skjervøy , only a few days a week. There are usually departures on:

• Tuesday (Tromsø – Skjervøy – Tromsø: 16:00 – 20:05)
• Thursday (Tromsø – Skjervøy – Tromsø: 16:00 – 20:05)
• Friday (Tromsø – Skjervøy – Tromsø: 16:05 – 21:15)
• Sunday (Tromsø – Skjervøy – Tromsø: 14:30 – 19:50)

Timetables may be subject to frequent changes, but you can check the updated ones here . Yours is “Linje 3 Tromsø – Skjervøy” . The timetables are in Norwegian, so… let’s learn Norwegian: Mandag: Monday / Tirsdag: Tuesday / Onsdag: Wednesday / Torsdag: Thursday / Fredag: Friday / Lørdag: Saturday / Søndag: Sunday.

There are two main drawbacks to going to Skjervøy by express boat, and that’s why I wouldn’t recommend it. The first is that you will not be able to leave the boat , otherwise you will be stuck there. Once in Skjervøy, the boat leaves again for Tromsø in a few minutes. In the summer you might at least enjoy the ride, but in the winter it will be too dark. And this is not cheap , as the ticket costs 980 NOK (784 NOK if purchased in advance at the ticket machine). For just a few extra bucks you would go on an amazing whale watching tour!

An alternative could be to go by bus (several changes) or the express boat to Skjervøy and take the southbound Hurtigruten back from Skjervøy to Tromsø, which leaves from Skjervøy around 7.45pm. However, this alternative may be more expensive. For tickets and prices you should inquire at the ticket offices of Troms Fylkestrafikk , at the Tromsø Port Terminal in Samuel Arnesens gate, 5 .

Senja Island

The fabulous Senja Island can be easily reached from Tromsø and is the ideal destination for a few days road trip. In the summer it might be feasible to visit it in the day, but it would be a bit of a rush. Senja is in fact the second largest island in Norway , boasting an extraordinary variety of landscapes ranging from peaky mountains to enchanting valleys, as well as forests, scenic fjords, beautiful sandy beaches and quiet, tiny fishing villages.

Senja is a paradise for hikers and cyclists and is the ideal destination for a nice road trip , as its main attractions are mostly found along the Fv86 and Fv862 , which essentially allow you to take a complete tour of the island.

☞ Here you will find a comprehensive guide to visiting Senja Island .

I would not go with the express boats that goes from Tromsø to the village of Lysnes on the north east coast of Senja, because it is not meant for tourists, I mean, from there it would be difficult to get around and visit. The village itself consists of a couple of houses and a pier, local buses are infrequent and are not ideal for exploring the island. Instead, rent a car in Tromsø and drive there! You will enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and it will be well worth the effort!

Allow some time to visit it and to enjoy its beautiful views, at least 2 or 3 days . To get there you could drive from Tromsø to the village of Brensholmen , just south of Sommarøy on the island of Kvaløya. From here there is a comfortable car ferry that will take you to the village of Botnhamn – on Senja – in just 45 minutes. There are 2-4 ferries per day and extra runs in the summer. It is 70 km, about 2-2.5 hours. You can find the updated ferry timetables here , yours is line No. 181 Botnhamn – Brensholmen . Ferry ticket prices from NOK 264 per car. Pedestrians and bikes travel for free. Alternatively you could drive along the E8 to Nordkjosbotn and from there on the E6 to Olsborg , then the Fv855 will take you straight to Silsand on the island of Senja . It is 180 km, about 3 hours of driving on a nice road.

Getting to Tromsø by Plane

The most common way to get to Tromsø is by plane. Tromsø Airport is located on the island of Tromsøya (the same as the city center), approximately 5km north of the city center. Tromsø Airport is a modern, albeit small, international airport, with direct flight connections to major cities in Norway and some destinations in Europe.

Tromsø Airport has frequent flights to and from Oslo , as well as Bodø and Bergen . It also serves as the main base for flights to Northern Norway such as Alta , Hammerfest and Kirkenes . It is also one of the main bases for flying to Longyearbyen , in the Svalbard Islands .

Tromsø Airport is well connected to the city center by city buses no. 40 and 42 , which stop in front of the terminal. From the city center to the airport it takes 15-30 minutes. Tickets from 39 NOK (one way) when bought at the machine or via the Troms Billett app. If bought on board they are approx. 50% more expensive! A faster way is the direct shuttle bus called Airport Express Coach (Flybussen) , which take about 15 minutes from the city center to the airport or viceversa. Tickets from 125 NOK (one way). More info on the official website .

If you need a taxi or a private transfer , comfortable and convenient especially for those traveling with heavy luggage or for families, you could book it in advance here , at an affordable price!

Alternatively you could rent a car at Tromsø Airport . There are few car rental desks, it is advisable to book in advance online on reputable sites , such as Rentalcars.com (owned by Booking.com ) or Discovercars.com (one of the best-rated in the world). These offer the best rates in real-time, top-notch insurance, guaranteed booking and free cancellation.

Getting to Tromsø by Bus

The main bus routes to Tromsø are from Narvik , Alta or Rovaniemi , depending on whether you are from Central Norway or Finland . From Narvik the Bus n. 100 goes to Tromsø in approx. 4 hours. Tickets from 390 NOK (one way). If purchased on board, the ticket price starts from 488 NOK.

If you are coming from Bodø you should take a bus to Narvik (6.5 hours, from 494 NOK, bus line 100), via Fauske and with a change in Innhavet . You can check prices and timetables on Reisnordland .

Bodø is the terminus of the scenic Nordland Railway which runs from Trondheim for 729km through dramatic landscapes, passing through Fauske and arriving in Bodø . From Trondheim there are trains to and from Oslo .

Those coming from Sweden could arrive in Narvik with the Arctic Circle Train , a night train that leaves Stockholm in the evening and arrives in Narvik the following day, crossing the breathtaking landscapes of Swedish Lapland and passing through the towns of Kiruna and Abisko .

There are direct express buses from Tromsø to Rovaniemi and viceversa, which depart from Tromsø Bus Station and arrive in Rovaniemi in 10 hours (tickets from 112 €), via Skibotn , Kilpisjärvi and Karesuvanto . Info and tickets on Eskelisen Lapin Linjat .

There are direct buses between Tromsø and Alta , which depart from Tromsø Bus Station and arrive in Alta in 6.5 hours (tickets from 468 NOK, bus line 150), via Lyngen and Storslett . Info about Troms Fylkestrafikk .

In winter (December to March) there are also daily winter bus routes operated by The Arctic Route , which connect Narvik , Tromsø , Alta , Rovaniemi and many other tourist destinations. These buses are primarily intended for tourists, as they connect major hotels and tourist attractions in Northern Norway, Northern Finland and Northern Sweden. Journey times are similar (sometimes longer) than public buses. The Arctic Route has an info and reservations desk at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Tromsø .

Getting to Tromsø by ship

Ships of the Hurtigruten Coastal Express travel from Bergen to Kirkenes connecting major ports along the Norwegian coast, including Tromsø . Hurtigruten ships call the port of Tromsø daily, at 2.15pm on the northbound route and at 11.45pm on the southbound route . You can travel port-to-port by booking a ticket in advance on the Hurtigruten website.

Exactly the same route, with the same departure and arrival times, is operated by Havila Kystruten , a competitor of Hurtigruten who operates large and modern eco-friendly ships. Havila’s ships also allow port-to-port travel by booking a ticket on their website .

Tromsø is also a popular stop for cruise ships , both those operated by Hurtigruten and those of other companies. There are two cruise terminals , one in the city center (mainly operated by Hurtigruten) and the other – the Breivika Cruise Port – located north of the city center, near the University and the Botanical Garden, connected to the city center by the city bus n. 42.

Getting to Tromsø by Car

If you are planning an incredible road trip, you could easily reach Tromsø by the E8 road which connects the Finnish city of Turku to Tromsø , passing through Karesuvanto , Kilpisjärvi and Nordkjosbotn .

In Nordkjosbotn there is an intersection with the E6 road which connects Tromsø to Southern Norway , passing through Narvik , Fauske , Mo i Rana , Trondheim , Lillehammer and Oslo , and continuing to Sweden , Gothenburg and Malmö . The E6 road has connections with Denmark, Germany and allows you to get even to Rome!

From Nordkjosbotn the E6 continues north towards Skibotn , Alta , Lakselv , Karasjok and Kirkenes , where there is the border between Norway and Russia . What a wonderful trip!

Tromsø is located over 350km above the Arctic Circle , so you can experience polar nights and the midnight sun , depending on the season. If you want to see the midnight sun, or chase the Northern Lights, this calendar is sure to come in handy, as you can easily get an idea of ​​the sunrise and sunset times in Tromsø , month by month.

TROMSØ IN JANUARY

01/01: The sun is always down 14/01: Polar Nights Season Ends 15/01: 11:19 – 12:28

TROMSØ IN FEBRUARY

01/02: 09:20 – 14:34 15/02: 08:12 – 15:44

TROMSØ IN MARCH

01/03: 07:07 – 16:45 15/03: 06:03 – 17:42

TROMSØ IN APRIL

01/04: 05:45 – 19:50 15/04: 04:39 – 20:49

TROMSØ IN MAY

01/05: 03:16 – 22:06 15/05: 01:32 – 23:48

18/05: Midnight Sun Season Begins

TROMSØ IN JUNE

01/06: The sun is up all day 15/06: The sun is up all day

TROMSØ IN JULY

01/07: The sun is up all day 15/07: The sun is up all day

25/07: Midnight Sun Season Ends

TROMSØ IN AUGUST

01/08: 02:26 – 23:14 15/08: 03:48 – 21:48

TROMSØ IN SEPTEMBER

01/09: 05:03 – 20:24 15/09: 05:59 – 19:19

TROMSØ IN OCTOBER

01/10: 07:01 – 18:06 15/10: 07:57 – 17:02

TROMSØ IN NOVEMBER

01/11: 08:13 – 14:42 15/11: 09:28 – 13:29

27/11: Polar Nights Season Begins

TROMSØ IN DECEMBER

01/12: The sun is always down 15/12: The sun is always down

Can you see the Northern Lights in Tromsø on your own?

You may not want to book a specialized tour to see the Northern Lights and try your luck on your own. Well, then you will need a car , so that you can move to certain areas where you will have a better chance of seeing a fabulous Aurora Borealis.

You could rent a car and drive to the remote island of Sommarøy , approx. 60km west of Tromsø, where there is a quaint fishing village and a fabulous place to stay overnight, the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel Tromsø . In December it could be hugely popular, so book early!

Car rental prices in Tromsø in the peak season could be around NOK 900 per day if you book well in advance, so if you are a couple or a family it could be convenient. You can check prices and availability in real time on Rentalcars or Discovercars , in order to get the best rates.

Another fabulous place to stay overnight and spot the Northern Lights on the nearby island of Kvaløya is the Yggdrasil Farmhotel Retreat & Spa , which offers great rooms on a farm with fjord views , a sauna and a nice outdoor hot tub . Or the Buvik Sea Lodge , another good guesthouse located a short distance from the previous one.

The best areas – the ones where guided tours often go – are, however, a few hours’ drive from Tromsø, hidden among the mountains and fjords of the hinterland. You will have to drive towards the Lyngen Alps or towards Skibotn (120 km from Tromsø). In the area you could stay at the wonderful North Experience Basecamp . For an unparalleled adventure you could cross the Finnish border , reach the fabulous Lapland village of Kilpisjärvi (160 km from Tromsø) and stay at Arctic Land Adventure Glass Igloos or Tundrea Holiday Resort .

If you don’t want to rent a car, and just want to try to spot the Northern Lights in Tromsø , then some decent places could be the banks of Prestvannet , the small lake located behind the city center, reachable by car or by bus no. 40 and a short walk from the bus stop (about 10 minutes walk). Otherwise, you could go to the Tromsø Cable Car viewpoint, but keep in mind that it closes at 10pm, and you wish you could attempt to chase the Northern Lights until past midnight. Another place could be Telegrafbukta Beach , the public park located on the southern coast of the island, accessible for free and reachable in about 1 hour walk from the city center.

However, unless you are traveling on an extremely tight budget, I would not recommend going on your own, especially if you are staying in Tromsø for just a few days, as you risk not seeing them . You should trust the expert local guides, who have the tools, experience and know-how to enable you to comfortably see the BEST Northern Lights . This is a once in a lifetime trip – so you should try to enjoy it to the fullest! If you still don’t know which tour to choose, this is one of the best and the price is quite affordable .

What are the Best Festivals and Events in Tromsø?

Tromsø is a lively town , much more than you might imagine. In Norway people love music, it is no coincidence that this is one of the homelands of European rock, metal and electronic music. Norwegians also love art, cinema and books, this is particularly evident in the eclectic Tromsø , which is famous for being “The City of Festivals” due to its many musical and cultural events.

Below you will find a list of the best (and most popular) Tromsø festivals and events. It might be nice to visit Tromsø during a festival to discover the more modern, sophisticated and vibrant side of the city. But be warned, Tromsø hotels are usually fully booked during festivals, and rates tend to soar. Suffice it to say, each event attracts over 60-70,000 visitors from all over the world! Quite a lot for a town that has a population of just over 60,000.

Tromsø International Film Festival

One of the most interesting film festivals in Europe, the Tromsø International Film Festival , is held annually on the third week of January in Tromsø, especially around the Erling Bangsunds Plass (outdoor cinema) and in some of the city’s cinemas and theaters. Unlike the more famous festivals, the Tromsø International Film Festival focuses mainly on little-known high-quality films, independent and non-mainstream works.

When: around the third week of January. Info on the official website .

SMAK Nordnorsk Matfestival (Northern Norwegian Food Festival)

SMAK Food Festival is one of my favorite events in Tromsø. It is usually held in mid-September and is a good opportunity to learn more about local food, cooking traditions and the freshest local ingredients: fish, meat, herbs and vegetables. You’ll find over 80 stands, as well as local restaurants and producers offering tastings at affordable prices.

When: around mid-September. Info on the official website . Bukta Festival

One of Norway’s most popular rock festivals is held annually on Telegrafbukta Beach , south of the city center. Dozens of local and international artists play for three days under the midnight sun. Don’t expect mainstream artists, the line-up here is pretty indie-rock.

When: around the end of July. Info on the official website .

One of the most important electronic music festivals is Insomnia , which is held around the city at the end of October. It usually lasts 3 days and boasts an interesting selection of the best Scandinavian electronic music artists and producers.

When: around the end of October. Info on the official website .

Nordlysfestivalen – Tromsø Northern Lights Festival

Classical music lovers will enjoy the Northern Lights Festival , 10 days dedicated to the best of Northern European and Scandinavian classical music, including vocal concerts, choirs and classical-electronic music. The line-up is usually sophisticated and never predictable.

When: from the last week of January to the first of February. Info on the official website .

This festival is held in the heart of Tromsø, right in Stortorget square, usually lasts a couple of days and hosts the best of Norwegian and Scandinavian pop and rock music. For example, here I had the opportunity to attend several times the performances of Röyksopp, probably the most famous electronic music duo from Tromsø.

When: around the end of August. Info on the official website .

Tromsø JazzFestival

This festival usually lasts 4 days and is held throughout the city, hosting some of the best jazz artists mainly from Scandinavia, but also from the rest of the world.

When: around early or mid-August. Info on the official website .

Midnight Sun Marathon

The most important marathon competition in Norway is held annually in Tromsø in mid-June. If you are a runner, then you might take the opportunity to run the marathon or half marathon under the midnight sun, in the idyllic landscape around Tromsø. Think about it!

When: around mid-June. Info on the official website .

Tromso Itinerary for 3 Perfect Days (Winter Trip)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: August 28, 2023

Thinking of visiting Tromsø in winter but not sure how much time you need or how to plan your time? Or maybe you are wondering if a Tromso weekend is a good idea in winter? This Tromso itinerary should help you decide and plan your own perfect winter trip. Find out!

Tromso is a real winter wonderland that has so much to offer! From snowcapped mountains and incredible winter landscapes to bucket-list-worthy winter activities like reindeer or dog sledding… Tromso is also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world… 

So if you are wondering if Tromso is a good winter destination, yes, it absolutely is!

In our previous article, you can read about all the amazing things that you can do in Tromso in winter . But since so many of our readers asked how to plan their time and itinerary suggestions, I decided that it was time to also share my Tromso winter itinerary with you.

This activity-packed Tromso itinerary allows you to experience the very best of Norway’s winter wonderland in just three days. It is also perfect for those looking for ideas for a long weekend break in Norway in winter. At the bottom of this article, you can also find practical tips for planning your winter trip to Tromso . I tried to cover all the FAQs that we get from our readers.

But first – our itinerary for 3 days or a long winter weekend in Tromso. Take a look!

Here’s what your Tromso itinerary in winter could look like:

Day 1: Polar Fjord Cruise – Town & Polar Museum – Reindeer Sledding

Polar fjord cruise.

I started my 3-day Tromso trip with a fjord cruise on the first day. This cruise is one of the best things to do in Tromso at any time of the year, and so also in winter. It starts at 10 AM and takes about 5 hours.

This is one of the best ways to experience the stunning fjords around Tromso. The scenery is simply stunning and you might get to see dolphins, seals, various seabirds and also eagles. In season (+- November to February), Tromso is also a great place to see whales.

We had really dreadful weather this day, but the tour was still very enjoyable. I would definitely do it when in Tromso, no matter the weather.

Good to know: This cruise includes fishing and – subsequentially – fresh fish soup for lunch. Small snacks and light drinks are also included, as are warm thermal overalls. It’s a family-friendly activity and suitable for all ages.

TIP: These cruises take place on a relatively small boat. Since they are extremely popular, they often sell out at least a few days in advance. So make sure to book in time! You can check availability, read customer reviews, and book this fjord cruise here .

Tromso Town

Upon return to town, I had a bit less than 3 hours before my evening tour.

During that time, I walked around the old town, visited the Tromso Library , saw Tromsø Cathedral , as well as the Cathedral of Our Lady .

If you want to, you can also go shopping or find a cozy restaurant or cafe.

Tromso Harbor & Polar Museum

Then I walked back to Tromso Harbor to visit one of the most interesting museums in town, The Polar Museum ( Polarmuseet i Tromsø ).

The Polar Museum is quite small, but it’s extremely interesting and eye-opening. It gives a good insight into polar expeditions and the life in the Arctic regions, but also on the sad and devastating impact that humans have had on Arctic wildlife…

If you visit just one museum in Tromso, make it this one!

Practical Information: The museum is open daily, in winter it’s open from 11 AM to 5 PM.

Night Reindeer Sledding

The last excursion of my first day in Tromso was a night reindeer sledding tour outside of town. Pick-up time was 6 PM, which gave me just enough time to get back to the hotel and add a couple of layers of clothing for the night tour.

Reindeer sledding with traditional Sámi sleds is a real bucket-list experience that you can only do in this part of the world. Furthermore, if you are lucky, you might also see the Northern Lights. Our local guide said that they see the auroras on most nights. However, it was cloudy and snowing on the night I was there, so I didn’t see any auroras that night.

But that really didn’t matter at all. Meeting the Sami people, getting to know their culture, cuddling the reindeer, and riding the sleds was an unforgettable experience in itself. This tour also included a warm meal and warm drinks.

Good to know: This is a family-friendly experience that kids will enjoy as well. Thermal overalls for all sizes are provided. The tour lasts about 5 hours, so you’ll be back in Tromso at around 11 PM.

TIP: Just like all the winter tours in Tromso, this is a very popular excursion. You can check availability and book it here .

Day 2: Tromso Ice Domes – Polaria or Beer Tour – Northern Lights Tour

Tromso ice domes.

Tromso Ice Domes is an ice hotel, ice bar, and so much more. Located in stunning surroundings about 95 km outside of Tromso, it’s a place that you also best visit with a tour that includes a transfer from Tromso town .

The 1.5 hrs drive is worth it in itself and the scenery is really beautiful during the entire ride. Furthermore, the ice hotel is a real masterpiece created at the beginning of every winter and always somewhat different than the previous year.

Good to know: The tour starts at 10.30 AM, and takes about 5 hours in total. Lunch is not included, but you can have lunch at the ice restaurant. There is enough time foreseen for that.

TIP: If you are feeling really adventurous, you can opt to spend a night at the ice hotel at Tromso Ice Domes. You can check availability and book your stay here . It includes transfers from/to Tromso. This is not a cheap experience, however, in addition to a stay at an ice hotel, it also includes a dog sledding experience, guided snowshoeing and a northern lights trip with dinner cooked over an open fire while (hopefully) watching auroras. Other meals during your stay are also included.

Alternative: Instead of just visiting the Tromso Ice Domes, you can opt for a tour that also includes husky sledding . It’s a great way to experience the stunning landscapes of the beautiful mountain valley where the ice hotel is located. The only difference is that this tour starts earlier in the morning (usually around 8.30-9 AM), so you’ll be back in town at the same time as with the regular tour.

LEARN MORE: Complete Guide to Visiting Tromso Ice Domes

I visited Tromso Ice Domes as a day trip and so I was back in town in the afternoon. My next stop was Polaria .

Polaria is the world’s northernmost aquarium. It’s a rather small aquarium and while it’s nice to see, I wouldn’t consider it an absolute must. However, it’s a good place to spend an hour or so when it’s cold and dark outside, and it’s especially fun for families with kids.

There are several aquariums inside with lots of educational emphasis and activities for the children. The main attraction is the feeding of the bearded seals. They also show short educational films; one about Svalbard and also one about the Northern Lights.

Practical Information: Polaria is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM in winter. You can find more info on their website .

or… Beer Tour

If you are not interested in visiting an aquarium, you may want to visit the nearby Mack Brewery . It’s the world’s northernmost brewery and they run frequent tours.

You can also just visit the oldest pub in Tromso – Mack’s Brewpub Ølhallen . So even if you aren’t interested in a tour, the pub is a nice place to spend an hour or two when it’s dark and cold outside.

Alternatively, you can also join the Tromso Beer Safari , but it’s a 3-hour tour that starts probably just too early to be able to make it if you do it on the same day as Tromso Ice Domes.

Northern Lights Tour

In the evening, I took a small-group aurora tour that started at 7 PM.

Alternatively, you can also opt for a Northern Lights and Husky experience . Both of these experiences include some warm meals.

TIP: Make sure you get something to eat in town before going on a Northern Lights excursion. Even the tours that have dinner included, usually just serve warm soup, some cookies, and warm drinks. It’s delicious, but if all you eat each day is warm soup on every tour you take, you’ll probably want something else and a bit more filling for a change.

LEARN MORE: Northern Lights in Tromso

Day 3: Dog Sledding – Arctic Cathedral – Fjellheisen Cable Car & Hiking – Northern Lights Tour

Husky sledding.

I saved the best for the last day and went dog sledding. What an unbelievable experience. If you take just one tour in Tromso, make it dog sledding. It’s so much fun!

Various departure times are possible for daytime dog sledding. Most tours start somewhere in between 8 AM and 1 PM. I recommend that you go early in the morning so that you still have enough daylight time left for the best view of Tromso (see further).

TIP: Dog sledding tours are extremely popular and they sell out fast. You can either book a dog sled ride or a dog sled drive . In both cases, the tour is exactly the same and includes lunch, but if you book the ‘drive’ option, you’ll be actually mushing the sled yourself (vs. just sitting in a sled). If the above tour isn’t available, try this self-drive tour instead (no lunch is included, just cake).

LEARN MORE: Dog Sledding in Tromso

Arctic Cathedral

I returned to town early in the afternoon and set to explore the eastern part of Tromso (on the other side of the bridge). My first stop was the Arctic Cathedral. It’s an impressive modernistic triangle structure that you’ll see from town. It’s as impressive on the inside as it is on the inside and well worth a stop.

TIP: Sometimes, there are also nice concerts inside this beautiful church. So you may want to check the calendar to see if there is anything planned for your travel dates.

Practical information: The Arctic Cathedral is open daily. In winter, it’s open from 1 PM to 6 PM. You can check the opening times here .

Getting there: You can either take bus #26 from town, take a taxi, or walk over the bridge. Since buses were running very infrequently when I visited, I walked there and also to the Fjellheisen cable car (see further). The 1.5km walk from Polar Museum to the Arctic Cathedral takes about 20-25 minutes. From there, it’s an additional 1km (15 min) to the cable car.

Nowadays, you can also take a shuttle bus to Fjellheisen Cable Car and hop off at the Arctic Catherdal along the way. The buses run frequently and it makes it really easy to visit this side of town.

Fjellheisen Cable Car

Going on top of the mountain by Fjellheisen Cable Car is a must when in Tromso. The views from the top are UNBELIEVABLE! There are also lots of hiking paths on top and even in winter, you can make some beautiful walks there.

If you have some extra time, I highly recommend a short hike in the direction of Steinbohytta. Here is another viewpoint with even more spectacular views. It’s not an easy walk and I spent about an hour going there and back, but it’s really worth it! There is a lot of snow in winter and you need good winter boots ( hiking poles  and  crampons  would help a lot).

Practical information: Cable car runs every half an hour and, in general, is open daily between 10 AM and 11 PM (more info here ). You get a small discount if you book the tickets online in advance, but you can also just get them there. Student and family discounts are available. You can reach the cable car by public bus or this direct shuttle from the city center .

TIP: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and do this excursion on the day when the weather is best. While you can visit Tromso museums in any weather, the views are obviously better when there are not too many clouds.

Good to know: This is also a very good place to go hunting for auroras in Tromso, especially when aurora activity is high and city lights in the distance don’t disturb too much. You can just go on the mountain by yourself – no need to take a tour.

On my last night in Tromso, I went on one more aurora tour outside the city . For more information on the Northern Lights tours, please check the day 2 itinerary above.

If you are visiting Tromso in winter with the goal of seeing the Northern Lights, you will increase your chances by going aurora hunting every evening, just as I did.

Planning Tromso Winter Trip: FAQs

Below, you can find some practical advice for planning your winter trip to Tromso.

How Much Time Do You Need in Tromso in Winter?

As you can see from the above itinerary, 3 full days (4 nights) are really the minimum time you should plan when visiting Tromso in the winter season. And those three days will be packed!

If you want to take it easy and explore Tromso at a somewhat slower pace, or if you are visiting Tromso in December or January when the daylight hours are really limited, you may want to spend a week in Tromso.

Good to know: This itinerary is completely based on my personal experience visiting Tromso at the beginning of March. The days were getting longer already and it was possible to do quite a lot every day.

You may want to check Tromso daylight hours to see how much light you can expect in the period when you’re visiting. Just keep in mind that not all ‘daylight’ hours are equal. When it’s a cloudy day, it might stay quite grim and darkish for a long time, even on sunny days, the first and last ‘light’ hours are more like twilight.

TIP: Plan your outdoor activities during the daylight hours and spend the long dark evenings exploring Tromso town. At night, go hunting for auroras outside of town.

Where to Stay for this Tromso Itinerary

I recommend staying in the city center. That way you are close to shops, restaurants, and also to all the tour transfers. I once stayed at a nice mid-range hotel Thon Hotel Polar – the location is excellent for sightseeing.

On our more recent visit to Tromso, we stayed at Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora and it was great too. The rooms are bigger here, the hotel is located right by the water, AND it includes breakfast, afternoon tea/cake, and dinner. It’s a great value for Tromso!

Here you can find our complete guide to Tromso hotels and accommodations .

TIP: If you are looking for a very special experience, you may want to spend a night at the Tromso Ice Domes (for more information, please see the day 2 itinerary above). It’s a unique place to stay near Tromso in winter.

Do You Need a Car in Tromso in Winter?

No, you don’t need to rent a car in Tromso in winter. Since most winter activities in Tromso are organized tours that you cannot do on your own anyway, you’ll have transfers included. If you stay in Tromso center, you can easily walk everywhere. All tour transfers depart from the hotels by the harbor.

Renting a car wouldn’t make any of the tours any cheaper and I’d only do it if you prefer to go looking for auroras on your own. However, car rental is so expensive in Norway (you can check prices and find some of the best deals for car rental here ), that it’s not really worth renting a car just for that unless you’re traveling with a big group/family.

If you decide to rent a car, please only do that if you’re used to driving on ice. The roads in Northern Norway in winter resemble an ice skating rink…

How to Get to Tromso from the Airport

Tromso Airport is serviced by several public buses and it’s an extremely easy and convenient way to get from the airport to the city center. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, just note that taxis in Norway are really expensive.

If you don’t want to worry about public buses or how expensive your taxi will turn out to be, you can also pre-book a private airport transfer . It’s really convenient and quite reasonably priced, especially if you are traveling with more people.

How to Get Around in Tromso

If you are staying in Tromso city center, you can easily walk everywhere. The town center is very compact and everything is within a short walking distance. For longer distances, e.g. to get to Fjellheisen cable car, you can take a public bus or a shuttle bus .

TIP: Pack traction cleats or stablicers when visiting Tromso in winter. The pavements and streets can be very icy.

What to Wear in Tromso in Winter

You’ll need warm winter clothing when visiting Tromso in the winter months.

While in town you might be fine with light winter shoes and jeans, you’ll want to wear warm windproof winter clothing for outdoor activities.

Most tour companies provide warm thermal overalls and some also provide winter boots and gloves, but it’s not really enough. You have to wear warm thermal underwear and your own warm winter pants and jackets if you want to enjoy the outdoors.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Norway in Winter

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So, this is my Tromso itinerary for activity-packed 3 days in Tromso. You can use this itinerary to plan a long weekend in Tromso in winter, but you can also adjust it and make it a longer and more relaxing trip.

In addition to all the attractions and activities mentioned above, Tromso has a lot more to offer. If you have more time, you can go winter hiking/ snowshoeing , skiing, or join one of the popular snowmobile tours , etc.

TIP: If you have a few more days to spare and are looking for an even more unforgettable winter trip, you can take a short flight from Tromso to Svalbard . Just 1,050 km from the North Pole, Svalbard is a bucket-list destination where you can experience a real Arctic winter wonderland.

LEARN MORE: Svalbard in Winter

Planning a winter trip to Tromso and have any questions? Feel free to leave a reply below!

More tips for your trip to Tromsø & Northern Norway:

• Destination guide: Tromso in Winter
• Accommodation:   Where to Stay in Tromso
• Auroras:  How to See the Northern Lights in Tromso
• Packing:  What to Wear in Norway in Winter
• Huskies:   Dog Sledding in Tromso
• Ice hotel:  Tromso Ice Domes
• Tours:   Best Tromso Tours
• Budget:   How Expensive is Norway
• Road trip: Northern Norway Itinerary
• Lofoten Travel Tips
• Best Things to Do in Lofoten Islands
• Where to Stay in Lofoten
• Best Rorbu Cabins in Lofoten
• More:  For more destinations and travel tips, please check our  Norway travel guide .

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Swati Yadav

Friday 1st of March 2024

Hi Jurga, I am living in Trondheim and planning to visit Tromsø in the easter holidays. I found your article interesting and very helpful. However, I am a bit worried if going to Tromsø at March-end would be worth spending time and money on. Since the chances of watching Auroro lights would be low, plus I read in your article that the season for watching whales is also from November to February. Plus things might be affected due to the easter holidays. Could you guide me related to these doubts? Thank you.

Monday 4th of March 2024

Hi Swati, I think that Tromso is always a good idea and March is the peak winter season. The end of March should still be more than ok for auroras, but you never have a guarantee. Fjord tours are very enjoyable even if you don't see whales. And there should still be enough snow for winter activities. Although, you may want to check availability because I see that many experiences like husky sledding are already sold out pretty much for the entire month. In short, yes, it's worth a trip. But expect it to be very busy and if you decide to go, book all activities asap.

John Connaughton

Sunday 9th of July 2023

Hi, so one small problem I am finding reading thru this page and your "7 Things to do in Tromso in Winter". In many places, embedded in your writing, you have a link that says something like "3-day Tromso trip with a fjord cruise" or "book this tour", etc. But the links just seem to go to the "Get Your Guide" page and I cannot see the specific one you mention, let's say "Polar Fjord Cruise" or "Ice Hotel with Dog Sledding". Can you help with this?

Wednesday 12th of July 2023

@Jurga, Thanks for those links. We are considering getting a rental car, so we can journey every night to see Aurora, if need be. If so, some of the things we'd like to do, can they be done by driving to the location and just paying there. Reindeer Sledding, Ice Hotel, Dog Sledding, especially. I used the link on car rental you gave and it looks like for $400 USD with full coverage for the time we will be there. That would be a lot less expensive than if we need to do Aurora Tours almost every night. If we did get a car, how are most hotels as regards parking in Tromso? We're considering Comfort Express Gronnegata.

Monday 10th of July 2023

Hi John, we have no influence how GetYourGuide (or other websites) decide to show the urls when we link to them (and we talked to them about this time and again). Because some tours are seasonal or get replaced, they think that it's better to show the tour we linked to together with many other options in that area. Still, as a general rule, if the tour that we linked to is available, it always shows up as the very first one on the page that opens when you click on it. Polar Cruise is this one. Ice Hotel with Dog Sledding is not available now from what I see. This is probably because it's way too early for the season (ice hotel is built again every winter, so they'll probably show it as available when it's up and running again), so try again a few weeks before your trip. The Northern Lights tour is this one. Husky sledding - this one for a guided ride and this one for a self-drive. I hope these links now open correctly for you with just one tour per page. Once again, otherwise, it's the first one you see on the top left of the screen (if available). Hope this helps.

Sunday 9th of October 2022

Can you tell me about the includied meals at Clarion .. I'm a fussy eater, and the room price may be a tad high if I dont eat anything!!

Monday 10th of October 2022

@Jurga, cheers!!

Hi Pete, we recently stayed at Clarion Aurora in Tromso and found the meals great and excellent value taking into account the prices you pay at local restaurants. Breakfast is pretty much like anywhere else in Norway, afternoon tea - two kinds of cake and tea/coffee, and dinner - one or two main courses, a salad bar, and soup. It really depends on the day and what the cook decides. So nobody can tell you in advance what kind of food you'll get. If you want to be able to choose, then no, it's probably not the best option for you since dinner options are limited. That being said, one of our kids is also a fussy eater and he found plenty of things that he liked. Also, at least when we traveled, this hotel with food included was cheaper for the 5 of us than most others in the same location without any food options at all. So we found it more than worth it. But this might be different depending on your travel dates. Hope this helps.

Michael Cicchi

Sunday 2nd of February 2020

Interesting, I never heard of this town.

Monday 3rd of February 2020

How is that possible, Michael?! As one of our most loyal readers, it's hard to imagine you missed all the pictures and blog posts I keep sharing about Tromso. :) It's a wonderful place and one of my all-time-favorite winter trips.

20 Unique Things to do in Tromsø in Winter: The Definitive City Guide, Itinerary & Travel Tips

This is the only Tromsø city guide you need! I’ll show you all the best things to do Tromsø in winter, plus top travel tips, money-saving hacks, best hotels, and the best places to eat.

Tromsø, an arctic oasis sitting some 350 km above the Arctic Circle in Norway. Craggy snow-capped peaks surround this small but important polar city dubbed the ‘Paris of the North’ and ‘Gateway to the Arctic’. There are so many ways to experience what Tromsø has to offer, from seeing the Northern Lights to whale watching, feeding reindeer and experiencing Sami culture to relaxing in quaint cafes after wandering around unique museums.

What’s included in this Tromsø City Guide & Itinerary

Here’s everything that’s included in this  Tromsø city guide . Use the links to jump around to find the information you need.

• A Quick History of Tromsø

What does Tromsø mean?

Map of tromsø, 20 unique things to do in tromsø in winter.

• Top Things to do in Tromsø in Winter – Watch the vlog
• Tromso Winter Events and Festivals

Tromsø Itinerary

Accommodation – where to stay in tromsø, where to eat and drink in tromsø, tromsø transportation, weather in tromsø, essential tromsø packing list, top tromsø travel tips, a brief history of tromsø.

Even though only 80 people lived in the area at the time, Tromsø was officially given city status by King Christian VII in 1794. Having said that, both Norwegians and the indigenous Sami people had been living in the region for much longer.

By the end of the 19th century, Tromsø became a major Arctic trade centre and the starting point for many Arctic expeditions. Famous polar explorers like Roald Amundsen recruited their crew members in Tromsø because of their unique local knowledge for Arctic conditions. It was during this time that Tromsø became known as the “Gateway to the Arctic”.

Similarly, Tromsø was nicknamed the “Paris of the North”. Why? Well, apparently outsiders who came to Tromsø expected to find Barbarians, but when they got here, they realised the locals were nothing of the sort. What they found where cultivated and well-educated people who dressed just as well as those in Paris. This was because they traded their fish for fabric in Southern Europe.

Today, Tromsø is well-known for having the northernmost university in the world and for being one of the top places in the world to see the Northern Lights.

I love Tromsø. I’ve visited in winter twice and I still managed to find new ways to enjoy it. Here are 20 unique things to do in Tromsø in winter.

Want to know where each place is? Take a look at this detailed map of Tromsø below.

Click on this interactive map and see where this itinerary will take you. I’ve created this map using Google Maps which you can save and use as you travel around.  You’re welcome 😉

Blue Pins – Things to do in Tromsø Orange Pins – Where to eat and drink in Tromsø Pink Pins – Recommended Tromsø Accommodation

1. See the Northern lights

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Tromsø is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world. That’s right, the WORLD! Even really weak aurora activity can be seen in the skies near Tromsø. In fact, if you’re lucky, and the aurora is strong enough, you can even see the Northern Lights from the city centre! Impressive, right? While this is technically possible, the chances of seeing those bright green hues dancing in the sky greatly increase once you move away from any light pollution.

How to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø

To see the Northern Lights, you need these three things:

• Little or no light pollution . Aurora activity is more visible when other lights sources are removed entirely and greatly reduced. So, you’ll need to swap brightly lit urban areas for dark locations.
• A clear sky or similar. If there are too many clouds, (low clouds are the worst), then your chances of seeing aurora activity is greatly reduced.  You need to know what the weather is doing and where to go to get the best visibility.
• Aurora activity. No activity = no Northern Lights. There is no way to predict when aurora activity will occur this is entirely up to  mother nature. You just have to go out and try your luck.

To increase your chances with the first two things, I highly recommend going on a Northern Lights tour.

Best Northern Lights Tour in Tromsø

Chasing Lights is a top-rated tour operator whose guides are experts in their field; they have turned Northern Lights chasing into a science. I’ve been on a total of 6 chases with them and I can’t recommend them highly enough.

From the moment they wake up, each guide tracks the weather from at least three independent sources throughout the day. Based on this, the guide prepares a unique route for the tour to take that evening and makes any necessary changes on the road.

While the goal is to see the Northern Lights, an added bonus of these tours is being able to see the incredible Norwegian landscape. You’ll see anything from huge snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, dramatic fjords, to deep valleys during your spots throughout the tour.

Soaking up some moon rays during the tour

Chasing Lights run about 4 separate Northern Lights tours each night, so there are plenty of eyes and ears on the ground. Each guide continuously communicates back to the team with the conditions they’re experiencing and which areas to avoid or head towards. Guides may even take you as far as Sweden or Finland if conditions there are better. They really do operate like a well-oiled machine.

Chasing Lights offer both small-group tours on a minibus (up to 14 guests) and big bus tours (up to 50 guests) , catering to all budgets and needs. Both tours, aka chases, last between 6 to 10 hours depending on the weather conditions and aurora activity. My personal favourite is their small Minibus Chase because they provide you with super warm thermal suits and winter boots, a warm meal and hot drinks, camera tripod, and hotel drop off.

On both tours, the guide takes photos of you with the aurora and landscape using their professional camera. All photos are sent to you after the tour along with a summary of your itinerary and the places you visited.

Pro tip: There is even a discount for subsequent chases!

Click here for the latest prices and available Northern Lights Tour dates.

Tips for seeing the Northern Lights

• The best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø is from early September until early April.
• Book at least 3 chases at the start of your trip to allow for any rebookings you might like to make if conditions are bad.
• Dress warm (at least two layers)
• Get lots of sleep the night before. These tours run well into the night and can really mess up your body clock.
• Bring snacks and something to drink.
• When nature calls, you’ll most likely have to do your business outdoor. Bring these biodegradable sanitary wipes just in case.

2. Reindeer and Sámi Culture Experience (Day Tour)

Things you should know about the Sámi Culture

Learning about Sami culture around the fire

When I met with the Sámi, I learned that there are three kinds of Sámi, Sea Sami (who live on the coast and live off fish and marine life like seals), those who live further inland and herd reindeer, and then there are those who have regular day jobs but still maintain a strong Sámi culture. On this tour, you meet the most well-known group of Sámi, the reindeer herders.

Before you judge, it’s important to keep an open mind when meeting and learning about people from different cultures to your own, especially when they live in such tough conditions. First of all, Sámi people (the ones who live off the land) don’t drive cars, have ducted heating at home, or follow a vegan diet, like many of us. Instead, they rely on animals, in this case, reindeer, to provide them with everything they need. Everything from clothing, to transport, and food. No part of the reindeer is wasted.

A great deal of respect is had for the reindeer on which their livelihood depends. In fact, it is believed the Sámi and the reindeer entered into a kind of social contract whereby the reindeer offer themselves to the Sámi, providing them with food and transport in exchange for the Sámi’s protection during seasonal migrations when they encounter predators.

The Sámi have been living and working with reindeers for centuries and it’s for this reason, along with other political, environmental, and cultural reasons, that reindeer herding is strictly reserved for Sámi people only. Even then, only about 10% of Sámi herd reindeer.

Best Sámi Culture Tour in Tromsø

I highly recommend taking the same Sami Reindeer Experience I did which was organised through Chasing Lights . The Sámi camp is located just 25 minutes outside of Tromsø, includes transfers, a warm traditional Sámi lunch, hot drinks, reindeer feeding, optional sledding, and a fireside presentation about Sámi culture. Read all about my Sámi Reindeer Experience here.

3. Arctic Fjord Road Trip (Day Tour)

View from Kvaløya (‘Whale Island’)

Admiring the cute red cabins on Hakøya

Dark clouds above Ersfjord

Discover Tromsø’s beautiful mountains, fjords, and coastlines dotted with cute red cabins on this Arctic Fjord Road Trip. With Tromsøya behind you, you’ll be whisked away to neighbouring islands to see some truly epic landscapes. Each guide doubles as a professional photographer who will take shots of you in each idyllic location. To end the tour, you’ll enjoy a warm lunch around a toasty campfire.

Click here for full details about my experience on the tour , or book your own tour here .

4. Arctic Cathedral

Despite its name, the Arctic Cathedral is actually a parish church, not a cathedral. Its Norwegian name, Ishavskatedralen, literally means “The Cathedral of the Arctic Sea” or simply the “Arctic Cathedral”.

In 1972, artist Victor Sparre, added a beautiful glass mosaic at the opposite side of the entrance which creates a fantastic display of colours when the sun catches it.

Walking over the bridge to the Arctic Cathedral

Don’t miss the beautiful stain glass window

Tips for visiting the Arctic Cathedral in Winter (2020)

Entrance fee.

• Entrance is Adult 50 NOK ($5.80 USD)
• Northern Lights Concerts: Adult 195 NOK ($22 USD); Child 50 NOK ($10 USD)

Opening Hours

• August 16 – Dec 23: 14.00 – 18.00 h.
• December 24:  Closed (Services only)
• December 25: Closed (Service at 18:00 and New Year Concert at 21:00h. )
• December 26: Closed
• December 27 – 30: 14.00 – 18.00 h.
• January 1: Closed
• Jan 2 – March 31: 13.00-18.00 h.

How to get to the Arctic Cathedral

• Walk over the bridge (approx. 25-30 minutes)
• Catch either Bus 26 (Tromsdalen) or 28 (Solligården) and get off at Tromsdalen Bruvegen.

Check the official Arctic Cathedral website for more details

5.  Fjellheisen – Tromsø’s Best Viewpoint

After a 4 minute ride, you’ll arrive at the large viewing platform. This area can get busy pretty fast so if you’re feeling a little adventurous and want to get away from the crowds, continue on foot to the top of Mt. Fløya. The snow and steep ascent can be challenging, so take your time and wear proper footwear and clothing. It takes around an hour to reach the top.

Fjellheisen during Polar Night

Fjellheisen Viewing Platform

View of Arctic Cathedral from Fjellheisen

Fjellstua Café

Warm up inside Fjellstua Café

Feeling peckish or just cold? Head inside the Fjellstua Café where they serve cold beer, gløgg, (a popular hot Scandinavian beverage served at Christmas), snacks and meals including reindeer stew and burgers. The only vegetarian option is a vegetarian burger, which is was very good I might add.

Tips for visiting Fjellheisen (2020)

• Tickets are sold 5 minutes before the cable car dispatches the lower station.  You can buy them on the spot upon arrival or purchase them via Visit Tromsø website .
• If you plan on walking up Mt Fløya, wear warm winter boots and bring crampons ( I wore these ) for the hike up to Mt Fløya.
• Aim to visit Fjellheisen when there is good weather otherwise you may not see much.
• For the best visibility, get to the top before 11 am while it’s still light out. During Polar Night, everything will drop back into darkness from 13.00 h.

Cable car return ticket is:

• Adult 210 NOK ($24 USD)
• Children (3-15 yrs) NOK 100 ($12 USD)
• Families (2+2) NOK 450 ($52 USD)
• Students: NOK 190 ($22 USD)

Opening Hours (Winter)

• Aug 1 – May 31: 10.00 – 23.00 h.  (last cable car up departs at 22:30)
• Restaurant 10:00 – 22:30
• Kitchen 10:00 – 21:30
• Departures on the half hour

Opening Hours (Christmas)

• December 23 – 30: 10:00 – 17:00
• Restaurant 10:00 – 16:30 / Kitchen 10:00 – 15:30
• December 25, Jan 1: Closed
• December 31: 10:00 – 01:00

How to get to the Fjellheisen Cable Car

• 15-minute walk from Arctic Cathedral, or
• Catch Bus 26 (Tromsdalen) and get off at Fjellheisen.

Check the official Fjellheisen website for more details

6. Polarmuseet (Polar Museum)

The Polar Museum houses various permanent exhibitions including trapping on Svalbard, sealing, whaling, and tales of famous trappers including Wanny Wolstad and Henry Rudi. There is also extensive information about the expeditions carried out by Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen. Amundsen is perhaps the most well-known for this famous expedition and race to reach the South Pole in 1911. His right-hand man was Helmer Hanssen from Tromsø, who was a navigator and highly experienced musher (a dogsled driver).

The Polar Museum is one of the four exhibition venues run by the Tromsø University Museum. The other venue including the sealing vessel MS Polstjerna (No. 12 in this list), Tromsø Museum (No. 16), and Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden (only open in Summer 11.30-15.30 every day).

Tips for visiting Polarmuseet (2020)

• Adult 70 NOK ($8 USD)
• Children (7-18 years old) 35 NOK ($4 USD)
• Students and seniors NOK 35 ($4 USD)
• Children 0-6 years old: Free
• August 1 – June 14: 11.00 – 17.00 h.
• June 15 – August 15: 09.00 – 18.00 h.
• May 1 and May 17: Closed

How to get to Polarmuseet

• Polarmuseet is located in the city centre on Søndre Tollbodgate and can be easily reached from the waterfront.

Check the official Polarmuseet website for more details

7. Wander along Tromsø Harbour

How to get to the Tromsø Harbour

• Tromsø Harbour is located in the city centre just off Stortoget.

8. Visit Skansen – The Only Visible Medieval Trail in the City

Even though all that remains today is a rampart, when it was operational, the sea would’ve reached right up to the ramparts. Skansen is considered to be the most valuable cultural-historical site in the region.

Sadly, much of Tromsø was destroyed by a huge fire in 1969, but thankfully the area around Skansen was spared. The buildings here date from the end of the 18th century and are considered the oldest buildings in Tromsø.

Sitting atop of the remnants of the medieval foundations, is Tromsø’s oldest building. In 1787, the Customs Services established themselves in Tromsø and chose Skansen to base themselves. From here, Customs Officers had an excellent view of the strait and decided to build a customs house. The building was completed in 1793 and is now referred to as, Skansen.

The cutest house I ever did see

How to get to the Skansen

• Skansen is located in the city centre just off Søndre Tollbodgate on Skansegata. It’s directly opposite the Polar Museum and can be easily reached from the waterfront.

9. Tromsø Cathedral – The Northernmost Cathedral in the World

Tromsø Cathedral is the northernmost Protestant cathedral in the world

Tips for visiting the Tromsø Cathedral (2020)

• Services every Sunday at 11.00 (English language)
• Adult NOK 20 ($2.30 USD)
• Children: Free
• Monday to Friday 11.30 to 16:00 h.
• Christmas service on December 26 at 17:00 h.

How to get to Tromsø Cathedral

• Tromsø Cathedral is located in the city centre on Storgata.

Check the official Tromsø Cathedral website for more details  or their Facebook page.

10. Go on a Snowmobile Adventure

See the Finnish tundra on a Snowmobile Adventure (Photo: Chasing Lights)

What could be more special than visiting the 3-country-border between Norway, Finland, and Sweden? It just so happens that these borders meet in the middle of a frozen lake! Enter the Snowmobile Adventure.

On this tour, you hop on a snowmobile and glide across the frozen lake, dubbed “the most peaceful border in the world”. Afterwards, you ride through forests and finish up with an amazing elevated view over the magnificent Finnish tundra.

In true Chasing Lights form, this tour includes a fireside lunch, photos of you during the tour, all led by their expert guides.

• Adult (16+) NOK 2 400 ($278 USD) – Shared snowmobile
• Adult (16+) NOK 2 900 ($336 USD) – Single snowmobile

Time and Duration

• Pick up at 07:00, drop-off around 16:30 (9.5 hours)
• Includes 2.5 hours bus ride to the destination in Finland
• Pick up and drop off at Chasing Lights’ shop on Storgata

Tour Inclusions

• Transport from Tromsø
• Warm suits, boots, and extra socks
• Helmet and face mask

Click here for the latest prices and available Snowmobile Adventure dates.

11. Polaria

When it comes to aquariums, I can’t wholeheartedly promote or support them, especially when they have trained seals inside that do tricks for a food reward like this one

The only reason I put Polaria on the list is because the building itself is very cool and has a nice story behind it. One day when the architect was trying to come up with a design for the building and produce something that residents of Tromsø would appreciate, his pen suddenly stopped working. After squiggly on the paper to get it to work again, he looked at this ‘drawing’ and noticed it resembled packed ice, a well-known phenomenon in the Arctic. This became his inspiration for the building.

Street art near Polaria

Tips for visiting Polaria (2020)

• Adult 130 NOK ($15 USD)
• Child (3-16 years old) 65 NOK ($7.5 USD)
• Family 280 NOK  ($32 USD)
• Senior 90 NOK  ($10 USD)
• Student 70 NOK  ($8 USD)
• Open everyday
• January 1 – May 16: 10.00 – 18.00
• May 17 – 10.00 – 17.00
• May 18 – August 31: 10.00 – 19.00
• September 11 – December 23: 10.00 – 18.00
• December 24: 10.00 – 16.00
• December 25  – 31: 10.00 – 18.00

How to get to Polaria

• Polaria is a 10-minute walk from the city centre located on Hjalmar Johansens gate near the harbour.

Check the official Polaria website for more details

12. See MS Polstjerna – Norway’s Best Preserved Seal Hunting Vessel

Memorial to Helmer Hanssen

Housed in a glass building is the historic Arctic vessel Polstjerna built in 1949. Literally meaning, The Polar Star, this sealing vessel was used for 33 seasons in the West Ice and East Ice in the Arctic. It was also used for Arctic exploration.

Seeing historical sights associated with killing animals isn’t easy for me, especially since more than 100,000 seals were caught from this vessel but, as I mentioned earlier, you have to keep an open mind. Instead, I try to focus on purely on its historical significance and how well-preserved it is. Both the entire interior fittings above and below deck are all original.

In front of Polstjerna is a memorial to Helmer Hanssen, who worked alongside Roald Amundsen on many polar expeditions including when they were the first people to reach the South Pole in 1911. In fact, on their approach, Hanssen pretended his dogs were tired and needed to rest just so Amundsen would become the first man to reach it. I mean, what an absolute legend!

Tips for visiting the MS Polstjerna (2020)

• Adults 40 NOK ($4.6 USD )
• Children (7-18) / Students / Seniors: 20 NOK ($2.30 USD)
• Children (< 7 years) Free
• Family ticket (2 adults + children)  80 NOK ($9 USD )
• June 15 – August 15: 11:00 – 17:00
• Polstjerna is closed during winter but to visit outside of these times, you can contact them on 77 62 33 60 or email [email protected]

How to get to MS Polstjerna

• Polstjerna is a 10-minute walk from the city centre next to Polaria on the harbour on Hjalmar Johansens gate.

Check the official Polstjerna website for more details

13. Ølhallen – Tromsø’s Oldest Pub

Choose from over 70 beers on taps at Ølhallen pub

Having a pint in Tromsø’s oldest watering-hole is a must. Relaxing in this cozy pub with a choice of up to 72 beers on tap is one of the best things to do in Tromsø .  Ølhallen (‘The Hall’) is owned and run by Mack Brewery , who, you guessed, is the most northern commercial brewery in the world!

Many of Mack’s beers have Arctic-inspired names including Isbjørn (Polar Bear), Nordlys (Northern Lights), and Midnattsol (Midnight Sun). Not only that but if you scan the QR code on the beer can/bottle, it will tell you what song was playing while the beer was brewed! Pretty cool, eh?

Ølhallen serves only Mack beverages available either on tap or in a bottle. Choose from their range of beer, cider, and non-alcoholic beers.

If you want to learn more about the history of Mack, you can take a Ludwig Mack Brewery Guided Tour .

Tips for visiting Ølhallen (2020)

• Monday-Wednesday: 11.00 – 20.30 h.
• Thursday: 11:00 – 00.30
• Friday: 11.00 – 01.30
• Saturday: 10.00 – 01.30
• December 22: 10.00 – 01.30
• December 23 – 26: Closed
• December 27: 11.00 – 00.30
• December 28: 11.00 – 01.30
• December 29: 10.00 – 01.30
• December 30: Closed
• December 31: 11.00 – 17.30

How to get to Ølhallen

• Ølhallen is located at Storgata 4, a 5-minute walk from Tromsø’s Cathedral

Check the official Ølhallen website for more details  

14. Go on a Whale Safari & Fjord Cruise

One of the reasons Norway keeps drawing me back is for the opportunity to learn about and see the world’s biggest mammals in a stunning Arctic landscape, whales! And lots of them too. This is your chance to see Humpback whales, Killer whales (Orca), Harbour porpoises, white-beaked dolphin, Minkie whales, and Fin whales.

Whales have a long history of chasing herring into the fjords of Norway providing some awesome whale watching opportunities. Winter is feeding season, so wherever their prey goes, the whales follow and in large numbers.

On a previous trip to Tromsø, I went whale watching off the coast of neighbouring Kvaløya island . This year, the whales didn’t come back to Tromsø, but new whale watching tours to Skjervoy Island (2.5-hour boat ride north) were available.

Seeing humpbacks perform their perfectly coordinated bubble-netting technique to catch the herring is utterly awe-inspiring. Not to mention the orcas who work like a pack of wolves, swimming at impressive speeds to hone in on their prey. Going on a whale watching tour provides a great opportunity to spot other wildlife like eagles and seals.

A great way to see the whales as well as whale conservation projects is by joining this Whale Research Safari . After driving through the magnificent Lyngen Alps you board a warm research vessel in Skjervøy where you’ll be taken out to sea in search of orcas and humpback whales.

On the safari, you’ll learn about whale communication, behaviour, and even hear the whales on the hydrophone. If you’re keen, you’re invited to help the researchers collect data too. From whale behaviour, photo-identification, underwater footage, and vocal recordings it’s all valuable information to the researchers.

Tips for going whale watching (2020)

• The best time to go whale watching is between November and February, but this all depends on the whales.
• Bring a camera and binoculars
• As always, dress warm (see my packing list below). As the Norwegian saying goes, there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing
• 1 295 NOK ($150 USD)
• Approx. 11.5 hours
• Meeting time: 05:45 h.
• Departure: 06:00 h.
• Meeting Point: Scandic Ishavshotel
• Whale Research Safari
• Whale presentation
• Scenic fjord cruise by bus
• Soup & sandwich
• Hot beverages & snacks

Check available times, prices and book here

15. Tromsø University Museum (Universitetsmuseet)

This small but interesting museum covers both nature and culture of the Arctic including Sami culture, the Aurora Borealis, wildlife, Vikings, and medieval art.

Want to learn more about the physics behind the Aurora or try out the Northern Lights plasma chamber? Join the guided tour and see an award-winning film and get a free Northern Lights book. The tour starts at 14:00 h. and costs 250 NOK. Booking must be made 24 hours in advance by calling +47 – 77 64 50 01 or emailing [email protected].

Tips for visiting the Tromsø University Museum (2020)

• Adult: 60 NOK ($ 7 USD)
• Child (7-18) / Student / Senior: 30, Child under 7: free
• Family (2 adults + 2 children): 120 NOK ($ 14 USD)
• June 1 – August 31: 09:00 – 18:00 h.
• September 1 – May 31: Mon – Fri 10.00 – 16.30 / Saturday 12.00 – 15.00 / Sunday 11.00 – 16.00

How to get to Tromsø University Museum

• Catch Bus 37 from the city centre.

Check the official Tromsø University Museum website for more details

16. Tromsø Ice Domes – Tromsø’s Ice Hotel

Elsa, are you home? Step inside the world famous Tromsø Ice Domes, a real hotel made of snow and ice! Learn about the construction process of the hotel and enjoy a non-alcoholic ice shot in the ice bar. Every year the hotel has a new theme conveyed through beautiful coloured lighting and ice sculptures.

The best way to experience the Tromsø Ice Domes is by taking their half-day guided tour including transfers. As part of the guided tour, you watch a short video about how the Tromsø Ice Domes were built from their very own ice cinema. For lunch, you can order a tasty meal to eat in their ice restaurant.

Tips for visiting the Tromsø Ice Domes (2020)

• As you can imagine, it gets cold inside. The temperature is kept to a cool minus 5 ˚C so make sure you wrap up.
• Tours run from December 20 – April 5
• Adult: NOK 879 ($102 USD)
• Children (4-10 years): 440 NOK ($51 USD)
• Departure:  10.30 or 13.00 – From Tromso city center (Clarion Hotel the Edge)
• Duration: 5 hours (including 75 min transfer each way)
• Lunch NOK 195 ($22 USD)

Check the official Tromsø Ice Domes website for more details   and Book your tour here

17.  Visit the Perspektivet Museum

Read stories about Tromsø´s past and present and see stunning documentary photography inside this magnificent 1838 neoclassical building. Afterwards, stop by the museum shop or grab a coffee in the café.

Tips for visiting Perspektivet Museum (2020)

• June 16 – August 30: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 – 17:00
• September 1 – December 31: Tuesday to Friday 10:00 – 16:00. Saturday & Sunday 11:00 – 17:00

How to get to Perspektivet

• Perspektivet is located in the city centre at Storgata 95.

Check the official Perspektivet website for more details

18. Visit Tromsø Center for Contemporary Art (Tromsø Kunstforening)

Tips for visiting Tromsø Kunstforening (2020)

• Wednesday – Sunday: 12:00 – 17:00

How to get to Tromsø Kunstforening

• Tromsø Kunstforening is located on Muségata 2, a 2-minute walk from Polaria.

Check the official Tromsø Kunstforening website for more details

19. City Library and Archive

The library is spread across four floors with a top gallery for where readers can nestle into a comfy chair.

Tips for visiting Tromsø Library and City Archive (2020)

• Monday – Thursday: 09:00 – 19:00
• Friday: 09:00 – 16:00
• Saturday: 11:00 – 15:00
• Sunday: 12:00 – 16:00
• December 24 – 26: Closed
• December 27 – 28: 10.00 – 15.00
• Self-service opening hours are daily from 07:00 – 22:00

How to get to Tromsø Library and City Archive

Tromsø Library and City Archive is located in the city center on Grønnegata 94, a 4-minute walk from Tromsø Cathedral.

Check the official Tromsø Library and City Archive website for more details

20. Go Shopping along Storgata

Buy yourself some warm Norwegian boots at Tromsø Skoringen (Storgata 68), a Norwegian-style sweater at Husfliden (Sjøgata 4), and a pick something special from the ‘best gift and souvenir shop in town’ (Strandgata 36).

For more mainstream shops, head to Nerstranda shopping centre (Strandgata 9) for H&M, The Body Shop, and other popular Norwegian brands.

Top Things to do in Tromsø in Winter – Watch the vlog!

Heading to Norway? Get my free Norwegian travel phrase guide.

Tromsø Winter Events and Festivals

• Polar Night Half Marathon – Join Norway’s biggest winter race. Choose between a Half-Marathon, 10 km, or 5 km without timing. Everyone who finishes gets a medal. Wohoo! When: Early January
• Arctic Snowshoe Race – This popular summer race now have a new winter edition you can join. When: Late March
• Northern Lights Concert at the Arctic Cathedral – Absorb beautiful sounds of Norwegian folk songs by candlelight inside the iconic Arctic Cathedral. When: February – March
• Sami Week – Enjoy a week of festivities, markets, and events celebrating Sami culture including the Norwegian Championship in Lasso Throwing and Norwegian championship of reindeer racing. When: February

I recommend staying at least 5 full days in Tromsø. This will give the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights (if you need to book multiple trips), and will allow you’ll be able to see, visit, and experience all the best things to do in Tromsø . For both trips to Tromsø, I stayed a full 7 days. If you can’t do that, then aim to follow my recommended itinerary.

Check-in to your hotel. Don’t book any tours in case you have any delays with your flights light I did! . Use your first day to wander around the city, get your bearings, grab a meal, and get some groceries for snacks and any meals you want to prepare at your hotel

I recommend booking all your tours at the start of the trip. Start your morning with either an Arctic Fjords Road Trip, Sami Reindeer Experience, Whale Watching Safari, or the Snowmobile Adventure. In the evening, go on your first Northern Lights chase.

On my second day, I did the Arctic Fjords Road Trip and Northern Lights Minibus Tour.

In the morning, choose a different tour you didn’t do the day before. In the evening, go on another Northern Lights chase if you didn’t have any luck the night before or just want to see them again.

On my third day, I did the Sami Reindeer Experience and another Northern Lights Minibus Tour.

By now, you’ll be exhausted from the late nights and early starts. Have a sleep in and use this as a ‘rest’ day in the centre. Yes, you CAN see it all in one day. Just make sure you leave the hotel by 09.00. Head up Fjellheisen (opens at 10.00 h.), visit the Arctic Cathedral, the Polar Museum, Skansen, Tromsø Harbour, MS Polstjerna, and Polaria. In the evening have a pint in Ølhallen or go on a Northern Lights chase.

On my fourth day, I slept like a log then did another Northern Lights Minibus Tour.

Choose from the Whale Watching Safari, Snowmobile Adventure, or visiting the Tromso Ice Domes.

Leave Tromsø 🙁

Spacious room at Enter City Hotel

Having a kitchen is a great money-saver

I stayed the entire week at Enter City Tromsø Hotel . I chose it for its convenient and central location, its lower-than-average price, and because it had a kitchenette. Since Norway can get quite expensive, having the ability to cook and prepare meals and snacks is a huge money-saver.

Rooms aren’t serviced daily, but you can take new towels, toiletries, fresh linen, and toilet paper as you need them. The rooms are large, modern, spacious and the bathroom tiles are heated. Each room has a TV, free Wi-FI, fridge, cutlery, crockery, kettle, and a toaster (available on request).

Other excellent options are Radisson Blu Hotel (where I stay on my previous trip) and Scandic Ishavshotel.

Alternatively, Tromsø has a few good options here on Airbnb , but at the time I was ready to book I could only find options located further out of the centre. If it’s your first time get US$65 OFF here or get £50 OFF your first stay here , when you sign up using my unique reader referral link.

At Christmas, you have drink gløgg

For a drink with a view, head to Sky Bar located on the top floor of Clarion The Edge Opening hours: Fri – Sat 18.00 – 00.00 Address: Kaigata 6

Casa Inferno

This is the best Italian restaurant in Tromsø and boasts a funky steampunk theme.  They even have a choice of vegetarian and gluten-free pizzas. Opening hours:  Mon – Tues 16.00 – 22.00, Wed-Sat 16.00 – 23.00, Sun 16 – 22.00 Address: Vestregata 2

This super cool retro arcade game themed burger joint has amazing burgers. Opening hours:   Tues – Sat: 12:00 – 22:30, Sun-Mon: 12:00 – 19:30 Address: Skippergata 6A

This popular and cozy restaurant offers over 70 dishes including Tex-Mex, Italian, burgers, salads, pizza and more. Opening hours: Mon – Thurs: 10:00 – 24:00, Fri – Sat: 10:00 – 01:00, Sun: 11:00 – 23:00 Address: Storgata 50

Make sure you try a Norwegian Waffle, too!

How to get to Tromsø

I flew direct with Norwegian from London Gatwick. If you’re unable to get a direct flight, you’ll most likely be stopping over in Oslo. If you do, I’d encourage you to spend some time in Oslo like I did before continuing your journey north.

Airport transfers

Once you get to Tromsø, save yourself the expensive airport shuttle bus with Bussring and take a local bus instead. It takes the same amount of time and will drop you off right in the centre.

Take either bus 40 or 42 located in front of the airport. To reach the bus stop, take the lift down and walk straight through the car park. Alternatively, exit the airport via the main doors and walk down the small hill to the right. When you reach the main road, you’ll see the bus stop on your left on the opposite side of the road. Use your card to pre-purchase your ticket (Adult 31 NOK, Child 19) at the machine.

Otherwise a single ticket purchased on board the bus costs NOK 50 for adults and NOK 25 for children/seniors.

Getting Around Tromsø

Tromsø is small enough that you can reach most places on foot.

If you don’t want to stay outside too long or are in a hurry, the bus network is fairly decent and can take you to most places you need to go.

Here are some helpful resources.

Route map for City buses Bus stops in Tromsø city centre Plan your route and get up to date timetables

Tips for taking the bus

• Tickets can be purchased on board buses but only with cash
• Make sure you pre-purchase your bus tickets for a cheaper price. Do this at the ticket machines at bus stop Fredrik Langes Gate F2 (by Kiwi) and bus stop Sjøgata S1 –  (in front of Peppes Pizza) or using the Troms Reise App (see below)
• Google Maps doesn’t work here for plotting bus routes, instead, download and use the local Troms Reise App (available on iPhone and Android ) to check bus timetables and the  Troms Mobillett app (available on iPhone and Android ) to buy your tickets
• From Monday to Friday, city buses operate from 06.00 to midnight with four departures every hour. More services run during morning and evening peak hours
• On weekends, city buses operate from 06.30 and run a night service.

There are several taxi ranks in Tromsø city centre. Prebooking is also possible by calling either Tromsø Taxi on +47 03011 or Din Taxi +47 02045.

For more flexibility, you can rent a car. I recommend comparing prices and booking your rental car here

You might think that since Tromsø is way up north above the Arctic that it gets super cold, well it does, but it enjoys milder weather compared with mainland Norway because of the warm Gulf Stream coming from the Atlantic Ocean.

The average temperature in Tromsø during winter is around -4 °C. However, when you’re out on a Northern Lights tour, you can expect temperatures from -25 °C to +5 °C.

• Heat packs – these are activated when exposed to air and last for hours. I put these in my shoes and gloves mostly.
• Beanie – preferably with a fleece lining
• Winter boots – I wore these cosy Timberland winter boots but these Sorel winter boots are even better
• Gloves – If you want to use your phone get touch-screen friendly liners or gloves so you don’t have to expose your fingers to the cold when you want to use your phone.
• Thermal underwear – top and bottom should preferably be made of merino wool
• Woollen sweater or fleece – I wore this one
• Wind and waterproof jacket with a hoodie – I wore my Jack Wolfkin jacket and this lovely Wantdo jacket
• Wind and waterproof trousers – I wore these by Jack Wolfskin
• Long thermal socks
• Thick wool scarf or microfleece neck gaiter
• Crampons – It can get incredibly slippery on the streets, it’s not worth risking throwing your back out. These were a lifesaver
• Day backpack – It snowed and rained a lot but I kept all my camera gear safe in this waterproof Thule camera-bag.

Check out my complete guide on what to wear and pack for a winter trip.

• Alcohol – The Norwegian government has a policy that aims to limit access to alcohol. Here are a few things you should know when buying alcohol. In Norway, the minimum age for purchasing wine or beer is 18 years, for spirits, it’s 20 years. Beer can be found in most shops but is only sold before 20.00 h. on weekdays or before 18.00 h on Saturdays.  The three places you can buy alcohol all are located in shopping centres – Jekta (near the airport), Nerstranda (city centre), and Pyramiden (on the mainland side of the bridge).
• Accommodation – To save money on food, book accommodation with a kitchenette or kitchen facilities where you can prepare your own meals.
• Supermarket – There are a few supermarkets but the cheapest is Rema 1000. I don’t recommend shopping anywhere else unless absolutely necessary.
• Water – No need to buy bottled water, Norwegian tap water is drinkable and sometimes better than bottled variations.
• Public Holidays  – Norwegians celebrate Christmas on the 24th, this is a public holiday along with New Year’s Day (1 Jan), Labour Day (1 May), Constitution Day (17 May), and Boxing Day (25-26 Dec).
• Currency – Norway’s currency is “kroner”, abbreviated NOK. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, so you can get away without having to withdraw cash.
• Polar Night – Polar night officially starts November 27 and ends January 27. During this time the sun doesn’t come above the horizon. The lightest hours occur between 10.00- 13.00
• Sleep – Get lots of rest before your trip, the mix of not having any sun, late nights, and early mornings will throw off your body clock. Make sure you keep up your Vitamin D  too.
• Festive Food and Drink – During the festive season, Norwegian will drink gløgg, mulled spiced beverage similar to mulled wine. Gløgg comes in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic variations. Your hotel may even serve non-alcoholic gløgg in their reception area like mine did along with ‘pepperkaker’ (ginger biscuits). Make sure you try this awesome combination.
• Opening Hours – In Norway, all shops excluding service stations and convenience stores are closed on Sundays. general opening hours for shops in Tromsø are  Mon– Fri: 10:00-16:30, Sat: 10:00-16.00. There is a late-night shopping in the centre on Thursdays until 19:00 h. At Christmas, most shops and many restaurants will close early on Christmas Eve and remain closed until December 27th. However, a wide range of activities and accommodation is available. Christmas is a very busy time for tours in Tromsø.

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Visiting Norway? Check out my other Norway posts

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• 23 Travel Tips You Should Know Before Visiting the Lofoten Islands, Norway
• How to get to Lofoten: 6 Easy Ways to Get to the Lofoten Islands, Norway
• 28 Unique Things to Do in Lofoten Before You Die [A Comprehensive Guide]
• 49 Underrated Things to Do in Oslo, Norway That Are Totally Worth Doing
• 22 Absolutely Free things to do in Oslo You Shouldn’t Miss
• Emanuel Vigeland Museum: Oslo’s Best-Kept Secret
• How to Hike Trolltunga like a Pro: The Ultimate Guide
• 11 Awesome Things to do in Stavanger you won’t forget
• 7 Reasons Why You Should Take an Arctic Fjords Road Trip in Tromsø
• How to Choose the Best Whale Watching Tour in Norway and Iceland

Sources Wikipedia   /   BBC   /  Every Culture   /   Visit Tromso   /  Visit Norway

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Really good guide. Comprehensive and clear. Just what was needed. Thank you!

Thanks Sarah, I’m so happy to hear that 🙂

Great article Michele. Currently planning a trip to Tromsø, our third to Norway, and will definitely be using many suggestions made here. Nice job.

Thank you so much 🙂 I’m excited for your trip. You’ll have the best time. Let me know how it goes! 🙂

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Best places to see the Northern Lights around the world – and when to visit

O ne of the world’s most famous natural sights, the Northern Lights attract people to areas around the Arctic in hopes of seeing the rare display.

Caused by the redirection of particles from the sun that hit the Earth’s atmosphere, the stunning atmospheric phenomenon is seen as the Holy Grail of skywatching and mostly occurs in areas around Norway , Finland , Sweden and Greenland.

The lights can be seen in other parts of the world; the UK has even had sightings in Scotland, Merseyside and Wales this winter during a period of heightened geomagnetic activity.

Unfortunately, such sightings are rare and most people wanting to see the aurora borealis (the scientific name for the phenomenon, coined by Galileo Galilei) will have to travel further north.

To help you in your quest to see the spectacular light show, we’ve put together a list of the best places for seeing the Northern Lights and when to go to maximise your chances.

Read more on travel inspiration :

• Ghostbusters is turning 40 – so I explored the streets of New York like one
• Where’s hot in June? Best destinations for summer sun to escape the crowds
• Barcelona for Valencia and other holiday swaps to make to avoid the crowds

Tromso, Norway

Tromso sits at the centre of the Northern Lights’ oval, meaning that the lights can be visible even when activity is low. According to the tourism website, Tromso is “one of the places in the world with the highest probability of seeing the lights”, and there is “always a good chance of seeing” them between September and April.

Temperatures are moderated by the Norwegian Sea and westerly winds, meaning that they are much milder than usual for the latitude, with averages of between 2C and -1C during peak viewing times (compared to Svalbard, where the average January high is -13C).

When to visit Tromso

Your best chance of seeing the lights in Tromso is between September and April, when the skies are dark enough for them to be visible.

Svalbard, Norway

This Norwegian archipelago is home to more polar bears than people and experiences harsh winters, with the sun not properly rising over the horizon between mid-November and mid-January.

While the islands do not experience total darkness (and therefore you aren’t guaranteed to see the lights), the main island, Spitsbergen, hosts several different types of expedition to give you the best chance of catching the phenomenon. If you’re lucky, you may even see some polar wildlife such as reindeer, Arctic foxes and walruses too.

When to visit Svalbard

The lights season here is slightly shorter than in Tromso, running from September until the middle of March. The best time of day to try and see the lights is between 6pm and midnight.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Located in Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi markets itself as the ‘Official Home of Santa Claus’ and contains a Santa Claus Village and Santa Park. The Northern Lights are visible here on “around 150 nights a year” from August, and the tourism websites provides ideas for nearby locations to view them.

Among its suggestions are the Arctic Garden (a 10-minute walk away) and the top of Ounasvaara fell (a longer, 45-minute walk from the town). Among other snow-based activities – such as sledding – you can join snowmobile trips and ice floating tours as special ways to enjoy the lights.

When to visit Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is one destination where the lights season is exceptionally long, running from late August to early April. However, the best time to visit is during the Polar Night period, from mid-November to mid-January.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland is located roughly 65 degrees north, making the country an excellent option for those trying to see the Northern Lights. They can be viewed in several locations, such as Thingvellir National Park or Kirkjufell Mountain, but the best place to stay when visiting has to be Reykjavik . The Icelandic capital is a typical Nordic city in style and acts as an excellent base for seeing the natural sights of the country in the day before going on a guided trip to see the lights by night.

When to visit Reykjavik

Iceland has a fairly typical length to its lights season, running from September to April.

Abisko, Sweden

Situated in Swedish Lapland, right at the heart of the aurora oval, Abisko National Park receives no light pollution and has one of the lowest rainfall climates in the Nordic area. With many surrounding mountains to keep the skies clear, Abisko also offers the chance to try out several activities such as snowmobiling, fishing and hiking.

The Aurora Sky Station markets itself as “the best place on Earth to experience Northern Lights”, but it seems that this confidence isn’t unfounded: if you were to stay for three nights in Abisko, you’d have an 88 per cent chance of seeing the lights, while the government website also claims that the area sometimes receives “more than two weeks of consecutive northern lights nights”.

When to visit Abisko

Maximise your chances of catching the lights by visiting between mid-September and early March.

Yukon, Canada

With a land area of 483,450sqkm, the Yukon is a vast region which is almost as large as the entirety of Spain. Roughly 80 per cent of the territory is wilderness; it’s home to the longest river in Canada , the second tallest peak in North America (Mount Logan, at 5,959m high), the smallest desert in the world (Carcross, at 1.6sqkm) and dozens of animal species, from moose to brown bears.

With this in mind, while exploring on your own may be tempting, when it comes to viewing the lights you’re best off booking a tour. It’s a good idea to base yourself in Whitehorse (the capital, with a population of just over 28,000), where guided tours will take you to nearby spots to give you the best chance of seeing the light show.

When to visit Yukon

Another place with a lights season lasting nearly eight months, Yukon’s most active time for light displays is between October and mid-November.

Ilulissat, Greenland

The most sparsely populated country in the world, Greenland offers the chance to see the lights with uninterrupted calm and tranquility. With a population of just under 5,000 people, Ilulissat is “rich in Inuit history” and is home to “millions of icebergs”. Low levels of light pollution and many clear nights will offer a good chance of seeing the lights during your stay.

With a population of just over 500, locations such as Kangerlussuaq also offer good opportunities to see the lights but may be too remote for some.

With three new airports coming to the island , access will soon be easier than ever.

When to visit Ilulissat

Along with the rest of Greenland, Ilulissat has a fairly typical season, lasting from September to March.

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Home to “some of the darkest skies in the UK”, some of the islands in the Outer Hebrides sit on the same latitude as parts of Norway and Alaska . The aurora has been seen as far south as Edinburgh , but the islands of Lewis, Harris, Uist and Barra are your best chance for seeing the lights in the UK .

More accessible than most of the other locations on this list, the islands are also generally an excellent spot for seeing different astronomical sights, such as the Orion Nebula, the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy.

When to visit the Outer Hebrides

Lights season in these islands runs from September to April, although the best time to see the lights is during the Equinox and Solstice, so between March and April and September and October respectively.

Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

The second largest city (by population) in Alaska, Fairbanks is situated near the centre of the state and is home to just over 32,000 people. Located on a similar latitude to Iceland, conditions here are perfect for viewing the lights: dark skies, dry conditions and a lack of light pollution.

One of the main benefits of Fairbanks (versus some other locations on the list) is the fact that you don’t even have to leave the city to see the lights, and as a major settlement, all the necessary amenities are available alongside the many tours on offer.

When to visit Fairbanks

The season here lasts slightly longer than usual, stretching from late August to April.

Finnish Lapland

While Rovaniemi has already been mentioned on this list, there are so many worthy destinations in Finnish Lapland that the entire area has to be recommended. Levi is the largest ski resort in Finland but is less crowded than other European resorts, and offers the chance to see the lights on snowmobiles or on reindeer-drawn sleighs. Harriniva is another resort that offers similar activities, with the Muonio River adding another scenic touch. Saariselka offers a different, village setting with excellent spots for viewing the lights only half a kilometre away.

When to visit Finnish Lapland

The official Finnish tourism website states that the best times to see the lights are in autumn and spring, at the beginning and the end of the season, with the season itself running from mid-August until early April.

Seeking a digital detox? Here’s how to go phone-free in Finland

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The best cruises to book for 2024

Whether you're looking to sail near or far, these are the best cruises to consider for 2024

So many places, so little time - and the best cruises for 2024 are ideal for seeing as much of the world as you can.

They also open up spectacular views you wouldn’t get on land, such as fairytale castles dotted along the Danube or the rolling vineyards flanking the Douro Valley .

Choosing a cruise means seeking new adventures, perhaps travelling to a continent you’ve never set foot in before or trying new activities like hiking, wildlife spotting or cooking . There are other ways to expand your horizons on a cruise too, such as seeing some local entertainment or making new friends on board.

As it’s become ever-more important to us to take a stress-free holiday, we've rounded up the very best cruise packages that won’t disappoint, with everything from the best river cruises to amazing cruises for couples and excellent cruises around the UK .

It doesn't matter when you're looking to sail either, as these cruises take in all the seasons. Fancy a wintery adventure? We've got an epic Norwegian expedition cruise for that. Feel like a spring cruise to escape the summer crowds? We've got the perfect cruise around Japan at the height of cherry blossom season . Japan cruises are always popular and tend to sell out early, but we've got you covered with an excellent 2025 sailing already available — make sure to take a look before it sells out.

However or whenever you want to travel, there's a trip for you, and the best cruises in 2024 take you to the most incredible destinations. You can travel with celebrities on star-studded holidays , visit lesser-known towns and villages to get a real taste of a location and sail to amazing wildlife destinations.

These are the best cruises for 2024.

Venetian Lagoon - Best cruises

Venice is a city that's famous for its water, and a cruise around the Venetian Lagoon reveals more of this romantic and fascinating destination than a hotel city break ever could.

On a Venetian cruise, you can visit the islands of Venice's northern lagoon, including Mazzorbo, Torcello and Burano during a sailing on the luxurious SS La Venezia. Burano is known for its traditional lacemaking and its vividly colourful fisherman cottages lining the lagoon.

The opportunity to visit Burano isn’t the only reason to pick a cruise in the Venetian Lagoon. On Good Housekeeping's special cruise , you’ll sail in the company of top chef James Martin, who will give a talk and Q&A about his career, and design and cook a grand gala dinner on board the luxurious ship SS La Venezia.

FIND OUT MORE

If you fancy an autumnal sailing with more of a musical theme than a foodie one, you might choose to join an eight-day cruise of the Venetian Lagoon in the company of world-famous tenor Russell Watson, who will give a special talk and Q&A, sign your complimentary CD, and give an exclusive intimate concert. You’ll have a chance to explore the highlights of the Lagoon as well, with trips to its islands of Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello and private visits to Venice's iconic Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica.

Croatia - Best cruises

If you're looking for a sunny Mediterranean cruise you'd do well to consider Croatia and its stylish seaside towns and dozens of sun-kissed islands and islets off the glittering Dalmatian Coast.

With their astounding natural scenery, stylish coastal towns and off-the-beaten-path beaches, Croatia’s islands are wonderful to explore by small ship where you can dock in hard-to-reach corners only accessible by boat.

There mainland has no shortage of attractions either, with bustling cities to be explored too, like Dubrovnik, with its labyrinth of limestone streets and alleyways, palaces, churches, monasteries and picturesque piazzas, and Split, which has a long and varied history and excellent museums.

On Good Housekeeping's cruise you'll dock in Hvar, Dubrovnik and Split as well as one of Croatia's most beautiful beaches at Zlatni Rat - the Golden Horn - whose distinctive shape has made it an icon of Croatian tourism. You'll also visit the island of Mljet and discover the Mljet National Park with its serene saltwater lakes and verdant pine forests.

Vietnam and Cambodia - Best cruises

A cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia is a fantastic way to discover the rich cultures, fascinating histories, and delicious cuisines of these two Southeast Asian gems. The countries are connected by the mighty Mekong River, which is a destination in itself, providing a home for diverse ecosystems and fishing communities on the delta and with ancient archaeological wonders along its banks.

Good Housekeeping is offering a 17-day tour of Vietnam and Cambodia, which includes seven nights cruising the Mekong on board the Mekong Jewel - an ornately decorated luxury ship.

You'll visit Ho Chi Minh City, where skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, Phnom Penh, Cambodia's thriving capital, and Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, where you can visit excellent museums and historic sites before indulging in some delicious Vietnamese street food.

There are excursions to the sprawling temple complex of Angkor Wat, the remnants of the last capital of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Thom, and to local villages and markets on sampans - traditional wooden boats.

Northern France - Best cruises

If you want to enjoy pretty coastal towns with a touch of history, a cruise to Northern France can offer you all of this without having to spend a huge amount of time at sea.

Sail to the Normandy region and you'll discover charming harbourfront towns like Honfleur, where you can sample local delicacies like camembert and Calvados, a rich local brandy made from apples and pears. Originally occupied in the 9th century by the Vikings, Honfleur has attracted artists for many years, including a young Claude Monet.

Join Good Housekeeping on a cruise to Normandy on board the luxurious ship Borealis. On the way to Northern France, you'll make several stops in the Isles of Scilly and the Channel Islands, including Guernsey, with its elegant Georgian and Regency architecture, and St Mary's, a marine conservation zone with lovely coastal walks. FIND OUT MORE

Japan - Best cruises

As each new spring begins, millions of Japanese residents and tourists wait with anticipation for the first buds of the pink cherry blossom, known as sakura , to appear.

These blossoms are a symbol of renewal, vitality and beauty, and they make Japan's already spectacular cities and landscapes even more breathtaking than usual.

You'll have the chance to experience this phenomenon for yourself with Good Housekeeping's once-in-a-lifetime two-week cruise around Japan. The journey begins and ends in Tokyo, where you'll find soaring skyscrapers contrasting with blooming gardens and traditional noodle houses.

Along the way, you'll stop in Hiroshima, where you can learn about its devastating Second World War history, Osaka, where you can see some of the country's most ornate shrines and temples, and you'll even make a stop in Busan in South Korea to enjoy the city's subtropical landscapes. FIND OUT MORE

Norway - Best cruises

Another wonderful European cruise destination for seeing the Northern Lights is Norway. It's one of Europe's best destinations for aurora spotting, especially if you head north above the Arctic Circle, where sightings of the lights are an almost daily occurrence at certain times of year.

From the Arctic capital of Tromsø, you can sail on to the remote and mysterious Lofoten Islands and visit North Cape, Europe's most northerly point, passing ancient Viking villages and herds of reindeer on the way.

On Good Housekeeping's Northern Lights cruise of Norway , you'll enjoy all the highlights of Norway's spectacular coastline: from exploring the Unesco-listed port of Bergen, the city of Tromsø and the ancient Viking trading post of Trondheim. You'll sail through some of Norway's most jaw-dropping landscapes, cruising past more than 1,000 mountains and 100 fjords. There'll be opportunities for wildlife spotting and stargazing and you'll be sailing with an expert expedition team who'll give you the best chance of catching a unique light display.

If you'd prefer a summer sailing, Good Housekeeping has a wonderful cruise over the August bank holiday weekend. You'll sail through several of Norway's most heavenly fjords, learning about ancient Viking history and the fascinating myths and legends that surround these icy waters.

Scottish Highlands - Best cruises

Loch Ness, Loch Nevis, the Sound of Mull, Iona, Eigg, Skye, Fort Augustus, Fort William… these names conjure up images of glistening waters, wild landscapes and towering castles, majestic flora and fauna, and ancient myths and legends.

A cruise in this part of Scotland would surely be a contender for the most scenic of British getaways. You can travel through the Highlands and islands of Scotland to explore the endlessly beautiful Caledonian Canal, the magical islands of Scotland's western shore and hidden sea lochs that are only accessible on the water.

The deluxe Lord of the Glens hosts a maximum of 54 passengers and is one of the best ways to sail the Highlands. Guests stay in outward-facing en-suite cabins and enjoy superb cuisine throughout.

You can experience this ship on a exclusive sailing with weather presenter Carol Kirkwood, who'll join you on a journey through the tranquil Caledonian Canal and onwards towards the Sound of Mull, sharing stories of her Scottish family's history.

Egypt - Best cruises

If you're looking for a culture and history-filled cruise a little further afield, a river cruise through Egypt is a great option. Sailing along the Nile allows you to visit magnificent temples including Kom Ombo, Philae, Edfu and the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty.

Good Housekeeping has a fabulous 12-day trip to Egypt packed full of historical and archaeological excursions. The trip begins in Cairo, where you'll take a trip to Giza to see the ancient pyramids and the Great Sphinx before heading to Luxor and boarding an opulent river ship for your seven-night cruise.

Making this cruise extra special is the company of historian Lucy Worsley. Lucy is an expert in Agatha Christie and will share her knowledge of the author's work during Q&As and talks, pointing out her connections to Egypt and the locations which inspired one of her most famous works, Death on the Nile.

Antarctica - Best cruises

Choosing the best Antarctic cruise can seem like a daunting task. It’s an investment of your time and money and likely something you may only do once and remember in exquisite detail. It’s a remote and thrilling part of the world to explore, where 12 million penguins live in the coldest, highest, and driest place on earth.

To get the best out of this bucketlist experience, you need to go with experts who will take care of everything. Hurtigruten expedition cruises have explored Antarctic waters for over 20 years, and their premium ships have been designed so guests can explore the region comfortably.

Good Housekeeping’s Antarctic cruise on MS Fridtjof Nansen has one of the lowest possible CO2 footprints of all expedition ships in Antarctica, thanks to a special hybrid engine on this future-ready vessel.

You’ll depart from Ushuaia, a city nicknamed ‘End of the World’ and head through the icy waters of the Drake Passage, home to the incredible marine life you may have only seen on screen, where the white wonderland envelopes you on an adventure like no other.

The Hebrides - Best cruises

For a slightly different kind of island holiday - one that's more about getting out and about in wild, untamed nature and spotting incredible wildlife - try a cruise around the dramatic Hebrides .

These Scottish islands offer rugged coastlines, varied flora and fauna and delicious local whisky to taste at several historic distilleries.

Each island has its own special charms. There's the outstanding wildlife haven of Arran, the Isle of Mull with its brightly painted harbourfront houses, the 'whisky island' of Islay, world-renowned for its peaty single-malts, and the uninhabited Hirta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you're interested in exploring the Hebrides, we have an eight-day sailing that will take you to Iona, Eigg, and Skye, as well as many other picture perfect locations on the mainland.

Greece - Best cruises

The idyllic Cyclades, a collection of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, are known and loved for their pretty white-walled houses draped in pink bougainvillea, sandy beaches and bright blue waters.

But there is more to the Cyclades than just sun, sea and sea. These isles have a rich history, shaped by their many past conquerors, including the Minoans, Persians, Byzantines and Romans. You'll see remnants of these cultures in the architecture, from the Monastery of the Apocalypse Patmos to the cliff-clinging monastery of Hozoviotissas on Amorgos.

Discover a range of these intriguing buildings and monuments with Good Housekeeping on a cruise of the Cyclades . As well as the Cyclades you'll also spend time in Athens and Kusadasi, a beach resort in Turkey.

Douro River - Best cruises

Anyone wanting to explore the Douro wine region should choose a cruise along the Douro River. This scenic waterway is central to the Portuguese wine trade and is flanked by rolling hills and vineyards, with storybook villages rising from the banks.

The Alto Douro, the name of this wine-producing valley region, holds UNESCO status and is one of the oldest and most renowned wine-making regions in the world.

Good Housekeeping offers an exclusive cruise along the Douro, where you can truly soak in the beauty of this golden valley as you travel.

Whereas some cruises like their passengers to dress in their finest gowns for dinner, A-ROSA ALVA has no such rules. Instead, an eight-day cruise invites its guests to relax on a wine-themed voyage where you'll visit multiple wine estates. Depending on the time of year, you might even get the chance to take part in a traditional grape harvest, including crushing the grapes underfoot in traditional granite troughs.

Germany - Best cruises

The Rhine Valley is a captivating part of Germany, characterised by storybook castles and hilltop vineyards. A cruise on the Rhine is particularly inviting during the weeks leading up to Christmas, when the towns, villages, and cities along its banks go all out for their famous Christmas markets.

Good Housekeeping has a Christmassy cruise which will take you to the best of these markets. Starting in elegant Cologne, you'll see the incredible Gothic cathedral before boarding your beautifully appointed ship and setting sail along the Rhine.

You'll make several stops along the way, including in Mainz, Frankfurt, Koblenz, and Rüdesheim. At each stop you'll have time to browse the fairytale markets, picking up unique gifts and trying local delicacies as the heavenly scent of roast almonds, mulled wine and spiced cider fills the air.

India - Best cruises

The Ganges is India's most sacred river, meandering 2,500km through the country from its starting point high in the Himalayas. Flowing through sprawling cities, tiny villages, and spectacular nature, a cruise down the Ganges is a fantastic way to see some of India's best attractions.

On a Ganges cruise, you can visit highlights like the Rajbari temple complex in Kalna, the artisan village of Matiari, and the neoclassical Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad.

Good Housekeeping has a once-in-a-lifetime tour of India , which includes a seven-night cruise down the Ganges. After exploring India's Golden Triangle – including an unforgettable trip to witness both sunrise and sunset over the Taj Mahal – you'll board the luxurious Ganges Voyager II, a spectacular ship adorned with hand-painted murals.

Another highlight of any trip to India is the food, and you'll be joined on board by the Michelin-starred British-Indian chef Atul Kochhar, who'll share his passion for Indian cuisine in a live cooking demonstration.

Alaska - Best cruises

With its staggering mountain ranges, lush forests, rolling tundra, dramatic glaciers and a jaw-dropping range of wildlife, ranging from bears and moose to whales, Alaska is wilderness at its best. And no location in Alaska is more inviting for nature lovers than its Inside Passage, a network of waterways that wind through the fjords and mighty forests of the USA's largest state. Cruising through this incredible body of water gives you a rare chance to glimpse humpback whales, orca, bald eagles and bears in their natural habitat, and to discover the diverse and fascinating culture and history on its banks. From intriguing Gold Rush history to the traditions of Native Alaskan communities, there's so much to learn about on an Alaska cruise. Good Housekeeping has a once-in-a-lifetime cruise of the Inside Passage as part of a Canadian and Alaskan adventure. You'll ride on a scenic train route through the Rocky Mountains to Vancouver, where you'll set sail for a week-long Alaskan cruise on board a well-equipped ship.

Danube River - Best cruises

The enchanting Danube is a wonderful river for a culture-packed European cruise. It winds through seven European countries and boasts opulent cities on its banks, as well as picturesque towns and villages and dramatic unspoilt rural scenery, including the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley.

Good Housekeeping is offering a week-long Danube cruise , where you'll discover the highlights of three of the great capitals on its banks. You'll enjoy the culture and culinary treats of Vienna, marvel at the its magnificent buildings in Budapest, and take in the Gothic architecture and imposing castles of Bratislava.

In Vienna, you'll also have a very special event to look forward to; a trip to the famous Royal Lipizzaner Stables and Spanish Riding School with one of UK's best-loved historians, Lucy Worsley. Here, you'll get an insight into the training work of the riders with their Lipizzaner stallions as you watch them train to the sounds of classical Viennese music.

FIND OUT MORE Looking for inspiration for your next holiday? Grab a cuppa and browse our brochure packed with unique escapes.

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