Explore Tromsø

Best Time to Visit:

• Winter (December - February): This is the prime time to visit Tromsø for viewing the Northern Lights, as the long polar nights and clear skies provide optimal conditions. The city also offers winter activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and reindeer sledding.

• Spring (March - May): The days get longer, and the weather starts to warm up. It’s also an excellent time to visit for whale watching.

• Summer (June - August): Tromsø experiences midnight sun during the summer months, where the sun doesn’t set for several weeks. It’s perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding fjords, mountains, and islands.

• Autumn (September - November): A quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists. The weather is cool, and it’s an excellent time for hiking and photography.

How to Get There:

• By Air:

  • Tromsø Airport (TOS) is the primary gateway to the city. Direct flights are available from major Norwegian cities such as Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim. International flights are more limited but are available through connecting routes.
  • You can check flight options via Skyscanner or Google Flights.

• By Train and Bus:

  • While there is no direct train to Tromsø, you can take a train to Bodø or Narvik and then continue by bus to Tromsø. It's a scenic journey through the beautiful Arctic landscape.

• By Cruise:

  • Tromsø is also a popular stop on Arctic cruise routes. Many cruises from Norway or the UK stop in Tromsø, offering a unique way to travel through the Arctic region.

Top Attractions:

1. Northern Lights:

   • Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. You can take guided tours that will take you to the best spots away from city lights to see the aurora borealis in all its glory.

2. Arctic Wildlife:

   • Tromsø is great for wildlife enthusiasts. In winter, take a whale-watching tour to see orcas, humpback whales, and other species. You can also go on dog-sledding adventures or take part in reindeer sledding with indigenous Sámi guides.

3. Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden:

   • The world’s northernmost botanic garden, featuring a range of Arctic plants, making it a unique attraction in the summer months.

4. Polaria:

   • A fascinating Arctic experience center and aquarium where you can learn about polar research, wildlife, and the Northern Lights. The center also houses an Arctic aquarium featuring seals and fish native to the region.

5. Tromsø Bridge and Arctic Cathedral:

   • The Tromsø Bridge offers incredible views of the city and surrounding fjords. The Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen) is a stunning piece of modern architecture with an impressive stained-glass window.

6. Fjellheisen Cable Car:

   • Take the Fjellheisen cable car up to Mount Storsteinen for breathtaking panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding landscape. The view from the top is magnificent, especially at sunset.

7. Tromsø Museum:

   • Learn about the cultural and natural history of the Arctic region, including exhibits on the indigenous Sámi people, the Northern Lights, and Arctic wildlife.

8. Mack Brewery:

   • Visit the world’s northernmost brewery, Mack Brewery, for a tour and to sample some local beers.

Activities to Do:

1. Northern Lights Chase:

   • Join a guided Northern Lights tour to chase the aurora across the Arctic skies. Many companies offer packages that take you far from city lights to give you the best chance of witnessing the lights.

2. Whale Watching:

   • Tromsø is an excellent place for whale watching during the winter months, where you can see orcas, humpback whales, and other Arctic species. Boat tours are available for an unforgettable experience.

3. Dog Sledding:

   • Experience the thrill of dog sledding through the snowy Arctic wilderness. There are several providers that offer this exciting adventure.

4. Hiking and Skiing:

   • Tromsø is surrounded by mountains, fjords, and islands perfect for hiking in summer and skiing in winter. The area offers trails for all levels, from easy walks to challenging climbs.

5. Midnight Sun:

   • If you visit during the summer months, experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun, where the sun doesn’t set for weeks. It’s a unique opportunity for sightseeing and outdoor activities around the clock.

Accommodation:

• Luxury:

  • Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø: Offers stunning views of the harbor and is conveniently located for exploring the city. Book through Radisson.

• Mid-Range:

  • Scandic Ishavshotel: A popular hotel right on the harbor with modern amenities and fantastic views of Tromsø and the surrounding mountains. Check out rates on Scandic Hotels.

• Budget:

  • Tromsø Camping: A budget-friendly option with cabins and a campground. Perfect if you prefer a more rustic experience. Book via Camping website.

Food and Restaurants:

1. Traditional Norwegian Cuisine:

   • Try local dishes like rakfisk (fermented fish), klippfisk (dried cod), and svele (Norwegian pancakes).

2. Arctic Seafood:

   • Tromsø is known for its fresh Arctic seafood. Try cod, halibut, or king crab at one of the city’s excellent seafood restaurants.

3. Mathallen Tromsø:

   • This food market is a great place to taste local specialties, including fresh seafood and locally made cheeses and breads.

4. Emmas Drømmekjøkken:

   • A fine dining restaurant known for its innovative approach to Norwegian cuisine, focusing on local and seasonal ingredients.

Local Culture:

• Sami Heritage: The indigenous Sámi people are an integral part of Tromsø’s culture, and you can learn more about their traditions and way of life at the Sámi Museum or by joining a reindeer sledding tour.

• Arctic Traditions: Tromsø’s history as a hub for Arctic exploration is rich, and the city is home to several museums that highlight the history of polar expeditions.

• Midnight Sun & Polar Night: Due to its location above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø experiences both the midnight sun in summer (24 hours of daylight) and the polar night in winter (24 hours of darkness). These natural phenomena are a significant part of the local lifestyle.

Booking information