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20 dos and don’ts of visiting Tromso, Norway

You don’t go to Tromso 350km north of the Arctic Circle for culture and cuisine. You go in the hopes of seeing the legendary northern lights . And who can blame you? The aurora borealis is on every traveller’s bucket list and if you’re lucky enough to view them in their glory, the memory will remain forever.

Tromso is Norway’s main hub north of the Arctic Circle and serves as an excellent base for seeing the majestic natural phenomenon . However, there are other things to do in Tromso besides chasing the lights.

We spent four days in the city and can offer the following tips for visiting Tromso.

Tips for visiting Tromso

1. If you’re visiting Tromso, or Norway for that matter, do be prepared to pay premium prices. Norway is an expensive destination at the best of times, but life in the Arctic seems to come with extra costs attached.

2. Do plan your trip with at least two nights dedicated to chasing the northern lights. The lights may not cooperate with your timetable and with so many tour operators in town it’s easy enough to book last-minute tours. We recommend Guide Gunnar and Enjoy the Arctic .

3. Don’t be tempted by a DIY chase. Finding the lights is an art and a science, and requires a network of local connections who can share information with you about the behaviour of the lights. Unless you’re experienced, you’ll likely miss them if you venture out alone.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask tour operators for a discounted price for the second night. As mentioned, there are a lot of operators in Tromso and they would rather a half-price client on their tour bus than none at all.

5. Don’t do as some of the hardened locals do. Always wear numerous layers, gloves, a hat and good winter boots. (We saw one local girl heading out for the evening in heels and sheer tights!)

6. Do visit the Arctic Cathedral ( Ishavskatedralen ), the landmark that can be seen from almost anywhere in Tromso. You can walk across Tromso Bridge or take buses 20, 24, 26 or 28 from the town centre.

7. Don’t skip breakfast at your hotel. Norway is an expensive destination so fill up in the morning and save yourself a few kroner on lunch! Additionally, many evening tours and activities include a meal or at the very least a warm drink and snack.

8. Visit the Tromso University Museum to see the excellent exhibitions on Sami culture, the northern lights and the history of life in the Norwegian Arctic Circle. Bus 37 goes to Tromso Museum from the town centre. See the museum website for opening hours and admission prices.

9. Don’t miss feeding Arctic reindeer and learning about Sami culture with the charismatic reindeer herder, Johan-Issak.

10. If you plan to use local buses when visiting Tromso then purchase cheaper pre-paid tickets instead of buying them on board (a single journey is 36 NOK pre-purchased compared with 50 NOK on board). Pre-purchased one-day tickets and seven-day tickets are sold at the Tourist Information Office , at various shops around town and at the newsagent at the airport.

11. From the airport, the slightly cheaper option to get into town is the ‘state bus’ (coloured white). The correct bus stop is a bit tricky to find and can be reached by crossing the car park underground or going around it overground. Just ask a member of airport staff if you’re unsure.

12. Do take a fjord and whale watching cruise. Unfortunately, we were unlucky and didn’t see any orcas or humpbacks but the views were incredible all the same. Opt for the fast catamaran service with MS Havcruise .

13. Make sure you visit the excellent Polar Museum (Polarmuseet) with its fascinating exhibitions on Arctic exploration. See the museum website for opening hours and admission prices.

14. Consider buying combination museum tickets which include the aforementioned Tromso Museum, Polar Museum and the  MS Polstjerna Museum . Combination tickets are available at 80 or 160 NOK for entrance to two or three of the museums respectively, as opposed to 40-60 NOK per museum.

15. Do read up on polar exploration  and the history of the Arctic. Norwegians have played a huge part in polar explorations and were pioneers of many modern exploration techniques. Start with the below books on Norway’s finest polar explorers.

16. For the best views across Tromso, take a cable car from Solliveien up to the mountain ledge at Storsteinen (421m/1,400ft). It was closed when we visited but there is a hiking trail that leads up. Take bus 26 from the town centre.

17. Take a walk along Tromso’s waterfront just before sunset. Somewhat reminiscent of Bergen’s Hanseatic Wharf, the view is dotted with colourful buildings and reflections of the surrounding mountains in the calm fjord waters.

18. Stop by Peppe’s Pizza on Stortorget in the town centre for a filling meal that doesn’t break the bank. If you’re really looking to pinch the pennies, then affordable hot snacks and toasted sandwiches are available in the 7-Eleven stores jotted around town.

19. Do take an aurora husky hike . If you’re lucky, the northern lights will make an appearance and you can kill two birds with one stone and save some money! Regardless, the huskies alone are well worth the fee!

20. Finally, make sure you give yourself enough time to fit everything in. We had four days and wouldn’t have wanted any less. The northern lights might not make an appearance or the weather could turn meaning your best laid plans may easily go awry.

Atlas & BOots

Visiting tromso: the essentials.

What: Visiting Tromso in Norway.

Where: We stayed at Scandic Ishavshotel , an excellent alternative to the hulking Radisson next door. Located right on the waterfront, Ishavshotel offers panoramic views of Tromso Harbour, Tromso Bridge and the Arctic Cathedral, as well as easy access to local sights – the Polar Museum is mere minutes away.

Our room had floor to ceiling windows and came with all-important heating and carpeting, which made for a cosy refuge after a day (or night!) out in the cold.

When: There is so much information about the best time to see the northern lights when visiting Tromso, but much of it is conflicting. We visited in October and therefore trust Norway Lights which indicates that March, April, September and October are best.

Snow arrives in early November but to make sure all winter activities are available, visit between 1st December and 31st March. Be aware though that the Polar Night begins around mid-November and lasts until mid-January. During this time, the sun does not rise above the horizon meaning it’s almost totally dark all day and night.

How:  The best way to get to Tromso is to fly from Oslo. Book via Skyscanner for the best prices. From Tromso airport, you can catch the Flybussekspressen into town. These cost 60 NOK ($7.3) and leave from directly outside the airport. Alternatively, you can take the state bus, as mentioned in tip 11 above.

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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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The Ultimate Tromso Travel Guide

Tromso trip planner.

If you’re visiting the Capital of the Arctic for the first time or you want to plan the ultimate Northern Lights getaway, you need this Tromso trip planner . Below, you’ll find everything you need to plan a trip to Tromso , from the best activities and hotels, to what to pack and how to get around.

Planning a Tromso trip step-by-step

This Tromso trip planner will guide you step by step, so you cover all the bases :

1. Things to do in Tromso

2. best time to visit tromso, 3. how to get to tromso, norway, 4. where to stay in tromso, 5. how to get around tromso, 6. best restaurants in tromso.

• 7. How much is a holiday to Tromso
• 8. Tromso packing list

9. Download a tourist map of Tromso

10. other tips for visiting tromso.

There are countless things to do in Tromso , from chasing the Northern Lights to reindeer sledding and scenic hikes. There are also lots of museums and attractions to discover, so check out the top activities in Tromso below!

Tromsø Northern Lights tours may be the most popular, but there are lots of other incredible excursions in Tromso . Whether you want a sporty adventure, a whale-watching cruise, or a chance to explore the natural landscapes, we’ve got you covered.

Northern Lights in Tromso - Fact Sheet

You’ll have the highest chances of seeing the aurora if you book one of the best Northern Lights tours from Tromso .

Check out our tips on how to see the Northern Lights in Norway , including when to go and where to see the most beautiful displays.

Plan your trip for the best time to see the Northern Lights , when the sky conditions and solar activity are optimal.

Find out what makes Tromso one of the top places to see the Northern Lights .

If you want to photograph the Northern Lights , read our tips to help you capture stunning images of the aurora borealis.

Check out our lineup of the best cameras for Northern Lights photography with the perfect settings and lenses to shoot the Green Lady.

Stay at one of the best Northern Lights hotels in Norway for an unforgettable adventure and a comfortable place to watch the show!

Don’t forget to check the Northern Lights forecast so you get the best light conditions possible !

The best time to visit Tromso depends on what you want to do. There are lots of  things to do in Tromso in summer , thanks to the midnight sun and the nice weather. However,  if you go during winter, you can see the Northern Lights and wild orcas, and of course, spend Christmas in Tromso !

Tromso in winter

Tromso in summer, tromso weather by month.

To help you plan your trip, below is a chart of  Tromso temperature and weather by month :

How many days to spend in Tromso

It’s a long way to Northern Norway, so to make your visit to Tromo worth it, plan to spend about a week there. I recommend spending at least 4 days traveling in Tromso so you can take the most popular tours and see the top attractions .

Once you decide on the dates for your Tromso trip , it’s time to book your flight. 

The flights to Northern Norway are usually expensive and require a layover. Some of the most popular layover stops are Oslo, Copenhagen, and Frankfurt. I recommend checking Kiwi or Skyscanner for the best deals on flights.

As for ground transportation, there aren’t any direct trains to Tromso, so you’ll have to fly into Tromso Airport .

5% OFF your travel insurance

Depending on the Tromso attractions and activities you’re interested in, you may want to stay in the heart of the city or closer to the great outdoors. We’ve got you covered with our guide on  where to stay in Tromso .

Best hotels in Tromso

Cabins near Tromso

Tromso campsites

As for Tromso’s public transportation , the city has a very reliable bus system. You can even download the Troms Billet app to purchase tickets on your phone.

Renting a car in Tromso

Even with a great bus system, there are lots of remote locations around the city that are worth visiting, so renting a car in Tromso is a good idea.

Tromso airport to city

After landing in the Arctic Capital, you can take bus lines 40 or 42, or a taxi, into the city center. The Airport Express Coach,  Tromso’s airport bus , is another way to get to your hotel .

As a coastal city, Tromso serves up plenty of fresh fish and seafood, although you can find options for all dietary preferences.

Despite its small size, the city has lots of places to eat, and I recommend dining at one or two of the  best restaurants in Tromso .

These Scandinavian and Norwegian restaurants focus on regional food with lots of fresh, local ingredients. So, check out our article and dig in !

Tromso's must-eat foods

The most popular foods in Tromso, Norway center around fish and seafood, but you can find vegetarian options and meat-based dishes, too. Of course, the national dish, Fårikål (mutton stew), is a must-eat in Tromso ! Here are some other foods to try during your visit:

• Tørrfisk (dried cod)
• Salt cod stew
• Smoked salmon
• Seagull eggs
• Reindeer meat
• Brunost (brown goat cheese)
• Rømmegrøt (sour cream porridge)
• Raspeball (potato dumplings)

7. How much is a holiday to Tromso?

Everyone has different preferences, time constraints, and budgets, so calculating the cost of a trip to Tromso isn’t always easy. Here is a price breakdown to help you out, as well as some Tromso travel tips to help you make the most of your visit!

There are plenty of Tromso lodging options for all budgets. If you’re not sure where to stay in Tromso , I recommend one of the best hotels in Tromso ‘s city center:

• Room rates : $153-$341/night
• Room rates : $141-$294/night
• Room rates : $172-$321/night

Most of Tromso’s restaurants are in the city center, so you won’t have to go far for a delicious meal. To save money, you can book a hotel that serves complimentary breakfast, like the Radisson Blu, or pick up some groceries from a Tromso supermarket . Below are the prices you can expect to pay per day for meals:

• Breakfast : $0-$10/person
• Lunch : $13-$18/person
• Dinner (casual restaurant) : $18-$40/person
• Dinner (fine restaurant) : $52-$106/person
• Total : $31-$174/person per day

Most of the top Tromso attractions are in the city center, so you can visit several places in a day. Below are the best ones to check out, as well as admission prices:

• Arctic Cathedral ($5.50)
• Polaria Aquarium ($21)
• Fjellheisen cable car ($21)
• Tromso Cathedral ($0)
• Polar Museum ($10)
• Tromso Museum ($10)
• Northern Norwegian Science Center ($13)

If you visit Tromso in the winter, you can take a whale-watching cruise or a Tromso Northern Lights tour , two of the most popular activities. However, even if you plan your Tromso trip during another time of year, there are plenty of great Tromso tours you can do.

• Northern Lights tour  ($95)
• Whale-watching safari ($140)
• Husky dog sledding tour ($195)
• Reindeer sledding tour ($134)
• Ice domes tour ($98)
• Fjord cruise ($135)
• Sami culture tour ($119)
• Snowshoeing tour ($110)

Tromso’s public transport is very dependable, so it’s a convenient way to get around:

• Airport Express Coach ($7-$10 one-way)
• Local Bus ($3.50-$6 from airport)
• Taxis ($15 from airport)

Another way to get from Tromso airport to the city is by rental car. Renting a car in Tromso is the easiest way to get to the more secluded areas and attractions, and we always find great deals with DiscoverCars . The price depends on the vehicle you choose, how many days you rent it for, and the insurance you purchase.

Below is the total cost for one person spending four days and three nights in Tromso. However, the total cost of a trip to Tromso  depends on where you stay, what you eat, how you get around, and what you do in the city, so use this only as a guide:

• 3-night accommodation : $459
• Meals : $240
• Northern Lights tour : $95
• Whale-watching safari : $140
• Rental car : $390
• Total : $1,234 per person for a 4-day/3-night trip

How to travel to Tromso on a budget

• The best time to visit Tromso depends on what you want to do during your trip, although if budget is a concern, January to March is the cheapest time to go.
• Many of the best things to do in Tromso (visiting the Arctic Cathedral, seeing museums, taking tours, etc.) are in the city center. Staying in a centrally-located Tromso hotel will help you cut down on transportation costs.

8. Tromso packing list - What to wear in Tromso

Warm clothing is a must if you’re visiting Tromso, Norway in the winter . You’ll want to pack woolly layers to keep you cozy in the cold Tromso climate . Even the summer temperatures in Tromso are on the cooler side, so layers are still a good choice. Think light, windproof jackets, a heavier jacket for when the temps dip, and a hat to shield you from the midnight sun.

Tromso winter packing list

• Hat, gloves, and scarf
• Long underwear & wool socks for layering
• Wool sweaters
• Hiking boots
• Crampons for snowy or icy hiking trails
• Skiing/snowboarding gear

Tromso summer packing list

• Light, windproof jacket
• Hiking boots/sneakers
• Hiking backpack
• Gloves for chilly days
• Long johns for layering

Tromso may be small, but it has lots to offer, so keep track of all the details with this map of Tromso :

Here are some final tips to keep in mind while you’re doing your trip planning for Tromso :

• The supply voltage in Norway is 230V (50Hz), and they use Type C and Type F plugs with round prongs, so you’ll want to bring an adapter for your electronics if you’re visiting from a country that doesn’t use the Europlug.
• In Tromso, as in the rest of Norway, the local currency is the Norwegian krone (NOK). The current exchange rate is 0.10 USD for 1 NOK; 0.13 CAD for 1 NOK; and 0.081 GBP for 1 NOK. Bank cards are accepted just about everywhere; just be sure to notify your bank!
• The official language in Tromso is Norwegian , although you can get by with English, as most locals speak some level of it.
• The price of eating out in Tromso can really add up, so if you want to buy groceries during your trip, it might be a good idea. There are different supermarkets in Tromso ‘s city center, including Rema 1000 and Kiwi . The price of groceries in Tromso is about the same as food prices in the U.S. Most grocery stores are closed on Sundays.
• There is free roaming in Norway if you use a SIMCard from Europe . However, if traveling from somewhere else, we recommend the Holafly eSIM card . You can keep your phone and get unlimited Internet access for as low as $19 for a 5-day trip.

5% OFF your international eSIM card

• Don’t forget to get travel insurance with COVID coverage for your trip! We highly recommend Heymondo , which is the company we’ve been using for years.
• Tipping in Tromso isn’t common, but if you want to leave a tip for good service, 10% is sufficient.

Tromso travel guide FAQ

To finish up this Tromso trip planner , here are the answers to some common questions about the Capital of the Arctic:

Is Tromso worth visiting?

Absolutely! This beautiful city offers incredible scenery and unique experiences like the Northern Lights, whale tours, and majestic fjords.

How expensive is Tromso?

Tromso isn’t a cheap city but it’s a much cheaper alternative to Oslo.

How many days to spend in Tromso?

Plan your Tromso trip for at least four days, but ideally one week.

What is the best month to visit Tromso?

It’s worth visiting Tromso any time of year, so the best time to visit Tromso depends on what you want to do.

For the Northern Lights, visit Tromso between September and April. If you want to go whale-watching, visit between November and January. To see the midnights sun, plan your Tromso trip for late June or early July.

What is Tromso known for?

The Northern Lights in Tromso are a huge tourist attraction, although the city is also known for its whale tours, the midnight sun, and the polar night.

Where can I see Northern Lights in Tromso?

Tromso is one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis, although you must plan accordingly to make sure you have the highest chances. The best way to ensure you see the most spectacular aurora display is by booking a Northern Lights tour in Tromso .

How far is Tromso from Oslo?

Tromso is about a two-hour flight from Oslo.

Is Tromso safe?

Yes. Tromso is a small city with friendly locals, so you shouldn’t have any problems during your trip.

Are Tromso summers cold?

The temperatures in Tromso in the summer aren’t cold, but they may be chillier than you’re used to. July is the hottest month of the year, with an average temperature of 54°F.

Is Tromso in the Arctic Circle?

Tromso is 220 miles north of the Arctic Circle.

What should I wear in Tromso?

Regardless of when you visit Tromso , pack plenty of layers. You’ll want wool sweaters, socks, and long johns for the winter, and lighter jackets for the summer months. A hat, gloves, and a scarf are also essential.

Do people speak English in Tromso?

Most of the locals speak English in addition to their native Norwegian.

If you have any other questions about our Tromso travel guide , feel free to leave a comment below. I hope you found this trip planner useful and that you create unforgettable memories during your visit to Tromso !

All our Tromso posts

8 Best Hotels in Tromso, Norway + Map

Top 7 Cabins near Tromso | Most Beautiful Tromso Lodges

8 Best Museums in Tromso, Norway + Map

8 Best Tromso Hikes + Tromso Hiking Map

8 best things to do in tromso in summer.

Guide to Camping in Tromso – Campsites and Wild Camping

Best Time to Visit Tromso – Tromsø Weather by Month

Tromso Ice Domes, The Best Igloo Hotel in Norway

10 Best Restaurants in Tromso + Map

Top 5 Things to do for Christmas in Tromso, Norway

10 best things to do in tromso in winter, 5 best whale watching tours from tromso.

Where to Stay in Tromso – Best Hotels in Tromsø, Norway

Tromso Maps – Tourist Map of Tromso, Norway

10 Best Tours in Tromso, Norway in 2024

10 Best Tromso Northern Lights Tours & Packages in 2024

Rental Cars in Tromso – Pricing, Booking, and Other Tips

8 replies on “ Tromso Travel Guide – Plan your Visit to Tromso, Norway ”

Hi. I am spending 3 days in Tromso in August. Can you help me figure out what are the most interesting nature places to visit outside of the city? For example: Senja or Knivskjelodden or the Lyngen alps? I can rent a car. How long should I spend in the city? Thanks.

Hi Michele, I recommend spending at least 4 days in Tromso so you can check out the city and explore the surroundings. If you like to hike, we have a great guide to hiking trails in Tromso . Some of my favorite outdoor things to do in the area are whale-watching tours and visiting the ice domes.

Thanks for this great article Ascen. Looking forward to my visit here and the information was well laid out and so helpful! Appreciate your time.

Thanks for reading, Cheri!

what companies to hunt the aurora borealis do you recommend?

Hi Caroline, We like the options mentioned in our guide to the best Northern Lights tours from Tromso !

I am so sure that this will be useful article and will be amazing for us.

Hope it helps planning your trip to Tromso!

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Home » Europe » Norway » Visiting Tromso: A Guide to Norway’s Northern Capital

Visiting Tromso: A Guide to Norway’s Northern Capital

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: October 9, 2022

The town of Tromsø, Norway is the largest town in the north. And it is way north. Tromso is nearly 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle. And visiting Tromso is a remarkable experience. Here’s the things to do in Tromso and what you want to know before visiting.

The northern-most everything in the world can be found in Tromso.  The northern-most brewery, cathedral, university, glass blowing studio, aquarium, etc. can all be found here. Tromso is as far north as the very northern-most points in Alaska and Russia. Tromso is way, way north.

With a population of over 79,000, a great international airport, a deep harbor, and a beautiful location, Tromso is essentially the capital of the north and the hub for all tourism and trade in the region.

Why would anyone visit Tromso? In two words: the northern lights! Tromso is arguably the best place in the world to see the Aurora Borealis. Tourists flock here en masse in the winter to catch a glimpse of the dancing lights. But there are so many other things to do in Tromso

Things to Do

Despite its remoteness and small-town feel, there’s a surprising number of things to do in Tromso. From active adventures to relaxing in the natural beauty, there’s no shortage of attractions and activities.

Northern Lights Tours

Seeing the northern lights is a bucket list item for millions. And there’s no better place in the world to see them than Tromso. Most nights, the dancing lights can be seen above the town or in the countryside outside it. In fact, the main northern lights observatory for Norway is located close by.

Whether you go on an organized northern lights tour or head out on your own, you’ll love seeing the Green Lady – those dancing Aurora lights. These is no way to explain how beautiful and mysterious they are. Visitors should allow at least several days in the Tromso area to go out in search of the lights. For more information on what lights are really like, check out our article on chasing the Northern Lights in Tromso or you can learn more about Aurora Borealis .

Dog Sledding

While filling your nights looking for the northern lights, you can spend your days seeing the Norwegian countryside. And there’s no better way to experience Norway than from a dog sled!

One of the popular activites in the region is dog sledding in Tromso ! The dogs are born to run and love being out in the snow. We didn’t know what to expect, but it is more exciting than we ever expected. And much colder! ( Dress warmly )

Fjord Cruise

A couple of different companies offer fjord tours by boat. Re-purposed fishing boats take visitors out to see wildlife like eagles, dolphins, seals, and even whales. These fjord cruises are chance to see the area around Tromso at water level.

The companies also offer northern lights or midnight sun tours (called the polar nights) or even a chance to try your luck fishing. Whether you just want to sightsee or try your hand catching fish, this is a great way to spend a day in Tromso.

Tromso is also a popular port for cruise ships, which offer fjord cruises as part of their sailings!

The Arctic Cathedral

Built in 1965, the steel and concrete Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen) sits on the mainland just across from downtown Tromso. The massive structure is designed to resemble a block of ice sticking up into the air. The cathedral is a popular attraction with visitors.

The cathedral is also a popular venue for concerts in the evening. If you are lucky, there may be a performance while you are in town. Check the cathedral website for performance schedule.

The northern-most brewery in the world can be found in Tromso. Mack’s Beer Hall is one of those places that transcends a mere brewery and becomes an iconic attraction in the city. There’s nothing better than pulling up a table and enjoying a pint on a cold winter day. Mack’s is a Tromso institution.

Or just do nothing at all. Tromso is a great city to slow down and be in the moment. Pull up a chair in a coffee shop, enjoy a cup and stare out the windows at the mountains. Or you can wander the small lanes in town and drop into shops and just experience small-town life.

Where to Stay

Radisson Blu Tromso . This is arguably the best hotel in Tromso. The Radisson Blu Tromso has a commanding location on the water, offers views of the bay and the mountains, and is extremely close to the tourist information office. When it comes to location, the Radisdon Blu has it. Unfortunately, during our trip, the hotel was fully booked. ( Book a room here )

Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromso . The Comfort Hotel Xpress is the budget hotel in the Clarion group. The rooms were warm, clean and comfortable but without frills or amenities. The room was also extremely small. However, for a rather last-minute trip, it fit the bill for us and offered good value for the money. As a bonus, the location was very central (halfway between the TI and Mack’s Brewery). ( Book a room here )

Scandic Grand Tromso . The Scandic Grand is another top choice. It is located be very close to the TI and in close proximity to a number of great local restaurants. ( Book a room here )

Apartment rentals . There are a bunch of apartments and vacation homes for rent in Tromso. Many of them include lots of excellent perks like a rental car, heavy thermal suits, winter boots, etc. If you are looking for more room or something a bit more independent, check out vacation rentals in Tromso. ( Check current prices here .)

Where to Eat

In addition to being an outdoor paradise, Tromso is a college town. That means there are lots of reasonable, cheap eats to be had throughout the town. Here are a few of our favorites.

Mack’s Beer Hall . This is the tasting room at the world’s northern most brewery: Mack’s Brewery. Mack’s features a broad selection of their own craft beers. It closes early, so makes a good happy hour option. Food options are (sadly) lacking.

Suvi . One thing you’ll learn in Norway is that they love flavorful and spicy food. In Tromso, that means a visit to Suvi (which is diagonally across the street from the Comfort Xpress hotel). Suvi serves amazing pan-Asian cuisine featuring heavily on Vietnamese dishes, but also sushi and Thai-inspired dishes.

Kaia Bar & Restaurant . Located right on the water at Tromso’s marina (and featuring views of the bridge and the cathedral), Kaia is the place for a heavy meal to fuel up before going out into the cold. We ducked in here for burgers and fish and chips before our first night out with the aurora.

Good Food Tromso . This food cart is open late (like 4:00am late on the weekends), which makes it the perfect spot for a post-aurora trip refueling (or after a night of hard drinking). Standard kebab fare with friendly employees.

Raketten . The Scandinavians love their hotdogs. And Raketten kiosk is the place in Tromso. Standard dogs plus exotic fare like Reindeer are available. They aren’t open very late so it makes a good lunch spot.

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

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The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

Tromso itinerary for 4 days: The perfect Tromso winter trip

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

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

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

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

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

How to get around

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

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

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

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

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

Good to know: From about November 21 to January 21, Tromsø experiences the Polar Night – a period when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon. However, this doesn’t mean there’s no daylight or that it’s dark all the time. From about 10am to 2pm, you can see beautiful colors of twilight in the sky so plan to be outside during these hours if you’re visiting during the Polar Night.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tromso town

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

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

Northern Lights tour

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Kvaløya, Sommarøy and DIY Northern Lights hunt

Arctic road trip.

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

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

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

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

Search for Northern Lights on your own

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

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

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

Day 3: Whale watching & Northern Lights

Whale watching tour.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Look for Aurora Borealis

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

Day 4: Dog sledding, reindeer & Sami camp

Dog sledding tour.

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

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

Reindeer feeding and Sami culture tour

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Tromso

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

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

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

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

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

What to do in Tromso when the weather is bad

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

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

Other places to include in your Tromso itinerary

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

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

4-day Tromso itinerary map

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

Tromso itinerary: Final thoughts

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

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

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

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

Pin this Tromso winter itinerary!

Visiting Senja Island in Norway: A complete travel guide

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

The perfect Lofoten itinerary: 5 days on the Lofoten Islands

Reinebringen hike: The most famous view in Lofoten, Norway

10 best beaches in Lofoten, Norway’s Arctic paradise

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

Thanks Alex! It sure was an amazing sight! 🙂

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

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

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

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How To Get To Tromso: All The Options

Situated far above the Arctic Circle, Tromso is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The remote location is ideal for high aurora activity in the winter months, but it also makes this charming town very tricky to reach. This is exactly why we made this guide on how to get to Tromso!

Plane, boat, train, bus, and car can all get you to Tromso, but which is the best option? Does it make sense to rent a car in Norway, are there any direct trains to Tromso, and why do international airports offer direct flights only in the winter?

I’ll answer all of those and a lot of other questions below, in this detailed guide on all the ways to get to Tromso!

The easiest way to reach Tromso is to fly there. Over the years, the charming town has become a tourist hotspot because it’s one of the best places in the country to see the Northern Lights. That means plenty of direct flights from other Norwegian cities, but also from some major European capitals.

Before I say anything else, here’s a quick overview of European airports that offer direct flights to Tromso:

London Luton (LTN) – December-March

London Gatwick (LGW) – November – March

Frankfurt (FRA)

Dusseldorf (DUS) – December – March

Munich (MUN) – December – March

Zurich (ZRH) – From June

Krakow (KRK) – September – March

Gdansk (GDN) – October – March

Copenhagen (CPH) – November – March  

Helsinki (HEL) – From November

Stockholm (Arlanda) (ARN) – From August

As you can see, direct flights to Tromso are seasonal. That’s directly related to the Northern Lights – the best time for viewing the aurora is between September and April, so most companies will offer flights only during that period. In Northern Norway, there’s no sunset from April-August, so there’s no chance of the Northern Lights showing up. You can see the midnight sun though, which is an equally fascinating phenomenon.

However, getting to Tromso during this period is a bit tricky. There aren’t any direct international flights between April and August, but there are quite a few domestic flights. Most travelers will fly into one of Norway’s four largest airports – Oslo, Trondheim, Bergen, and Stavanger – and then catch a flight to Tromso from one of them. It’s worth noting that Stavanger airport is the only one out of these four that does not offer direct flights to Tromso.

Other Norwegian airports that offer direct flights to Tromso are Hammerfest (HFT), Alta (ALF), Lakselv (LKL), Bodo (BOO), Kirkenes (KKN), Andenes (ANX), Harstad-Narvik (EVE), Sorkjosen (SOJ), Stokmarknes (SKN), Hasvik (HAA), Vadso (VDS), and Longyearbyen (LYR).

Domestic flights to Tromso are generally very cheap – in any case, they’re cheaper than ferries and bus tickets. Not to mention that it only takes you about 2 hours to fly from Oslo to Tromso, while that same journey in a car would take you at least 21 hours.  

Because of Norway’s length and rugged coast, flying remains the quickest and cheapest way of traveling to destinations above the Arctic Circle. If you’re looking for the most convenient and simple way of traveling to Tromso, you’ve found it! It’s possible to reach the town by other means, but none of those are nowhere near as convenient as simply getting on a plane.

If you can’t fly to Tromso, getting there by boat is your second best option. There are quite a few different cruise lines and ferries that stop at Tromso, and a lot of them operate year-round. The most popular cruise line that travels to Tromso is Hurtigruten , which provides daily transport between Bergen and Kirkenes. Hurtigruten calls at Tromso twice a day but depending on where you board the ship, it can take up to five days to reach Tromso. It’s a cruise line so if you’re not at all interested in cruises, it’s in your best interest to look for a direct ferry link.

There are direct ferries from most Norwegian cities on the coast, but the travel times are very long. Also, most ferries that go to Tromso are only for passengers and not for cars. In case you’re driving, it will be much harder – and a lot more expensive – to reach Tromso.

Another thing worth noting is that some ferries are seasonal and a lot of them only operate during the summer.

The most frequent express boat line is between Tromsø – Finnsnes – Harstad with 2-4 daily departures. Tromsø – Skjervøy line operates once a day except on Saturdays, while the Tromsø – Lysnes (Senja) line has 1-2 daily departures on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

There are also quite a few ferries from the small towns close to Tromso. They operate only in the summer, and the rides usually last between 20 minutes and two hours. These are small towns that are not that easy to reach so it’s unlikely you’ll pass through one of them if you’re arriving in Norway from a different country.

Traveling by sea is only a good option if you enjoy cruises, otherwise, it’s just a hassle. Ferry tickets are expensive (especially for car transport) and most lines depart from places that are already pretty close to Tromso.

By Bus And Train

There aren’t any direct trains to Tromso. The closest train station to Tromso is Narvik, and from there you have several bus connections to Tromso. The train station in Narvik is connected to Sweden, with direct trains from Stockholm and Kiruna. Another train station that is close to Tromso is Fauske, which has direct trains from Oslo and Trondheim.

Fauske train station is not connected to Tromso with bus lines – buses to Tromso depart only from Narvik, so if you end up taking the train you’ll need to travel from Fauske to Narvik. There are also direct buses to Tromso from a few cities in Finland, namely Helsinki, Rovaniemi, and Kilpisjärvi, but they only operate in the summer.

In practice, that means that if you’re trying to get to Tromso from Oslo by train, it will take about two days. You can go from Oslo to Trondheim (7 hours) and then switch lines to get to Fauske (9 hours), from where you must travel to Narvik (5 hours) to ride the bus to Tromso (4 hours). It’s a rather long journey and it’s even more expensive than a plane ticket from Oslo to Tromso.

It’s 25 hours of public transport, and that’s without taking into account that you might arrive in one place at 1 PM and have to wait for a few hours for your next train/bus. In terms of convenience and practicality, it makes absolutely no sense to travel by train and bus instead of a plane.

On the other hand, the journey from Trondheim to Fauske is regarded as one of the most scenic routes in all of Norway. Although you’ll be on the train for ages, you’ll be staring at stunning landscapes, and who knows – you might even catch a glimpse of the dancing lights in the sky.

Tromso is connected to Norway and Sweden with major roads, and it’s entirely possible to reach it by car. But it’s not practical at all unless you’re looking to do a road trip and stop in several other cities.

It’s about 21 hours from Oslo to Tromso, and most of the time you’re driving through Sweden. The costs associated with such a long drive are higher than the price of plane tickets – you need to rent a car, pay for gas, tolls, and pay extortionate fees if you want to leave the rental car at Tromso instead of driving it back to Oslo. Unless you specifically want to explore Sweden and Norway and spend a few nights in different cities, it’s just not worth it to even consider driving to Tromso.

There’s also the whole issue of road conditions in Norway (and Sweden). There are a lot of mountain passes that can be closed due to snowy conditions even in May or June, so there’s no guarantee you’ll actually be able to reach your destination. Also, mountain roads can be narrow, steep, and slippery, and they’re definitely not suitable for inexperienced drivers. If you’ve never driven in snowy conditions before, don’t even consider driving around Norway.  

If you’re an experienced driver and you want to go on a road trip around Norway, then this is definitely an option worth considering. Norway doesn’t have a lot of traffic, the roads are well maintained, and the scenery along the way is absolutely spectacular. There are quite a few scenic roads in Norway that pass near mountains and fjords, with views that will take your breath away. However, it’s worth noting that you should avoid driving through Norwegian cities. Recent environmental legislation has made it quite expensive to drive through major cities and more often than not you need to pay multiple tolls even for short routes.  

Hitchhiking

You could try hitchhiking if you want to get to Tromso for free. However, I would advise against this for multiple reasons. The main thing to know is that Norway doesn’t really have a hitchhiking culture. Norwegians rarely pick up strangers off the side of the road, mostly because there are very few people standing on the side of the road, waiting for someone who will pick them up.

Hitchhikers in Norway are mostly foreigners, and they usually get picked up by other foreigners, most often from Central Europe. Also, there’s the issue of distance – it’s some 1,8000 kilometers from Oslo to Tromso, and it could take you several days to travel that. Plus, that means that you’d need to be picked up by several different people, which would likely include several hours of waiting by the side of the road.

If you really want to try hitchhiking, at least do it in the summer. There are more Europeans on Norwegian roads, so the chances of someone picking you up are higher. Also, it’s warmer outside and if you must wait by the side of the road for hours, at least you won’t freeze to death.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Tromso?

That depends on what you want to do. Most people come to Tromso to chase Aurora Borealis, and if that’s what you want to do, the best time to travel to Tromso is between September and March. An even better time would be between December and February because that’s when the chances of the aurora showing up are the highest.

This is the period when the European airports offer direct flights to Tromso, so it’s also the most convenient period to travel to Northern Norway.

If you want to see the Midnight Sun and just explore Tromso during the period when the sun doesn’t set, the best time to visit is between April and August. Bear in mind that it’s trickier to reach this charming town at this time because there are fewer transportation options. You can still get a domestic flight from most bigger cities in Norway, but it’s unlikely you’ll be able to find an international direct flight to Tromso in the summer. A lot of ferry and bus lines operate in the summer though, so that’s always an option if you’re fine with the really long journey.

Also, it’s worth noting that winter generally sees a higher influx of tourists in Tromso and the area around it so expect crowds. The popularity of the town in the winter months also means an increase in prices of accommodation, tourist packages, and even plane/ferry tickets.

Another thing to keep in mind is that, even if you visit in the summer, you should pack some cold-weather clothes. Norway in summer is still chilly and it’s not unusual for mountain peaks to be covered with snow even in July. If you plan on doing a lot of hiking, you’ll need proper winter equipment, especially for the more challenging mountain ascents.

The average high in July is 17 degrees Celsius, which tells you all you need to know about summers in Northern Norway. The average July low of 10 degrees Celsius fills in the rest. Winters are extremely cold with a lot of snow and an impending sense of doom because it’s polar night . The sun does not rise at all here between November 21 st and January 21 st , so be prepared for that. It’s weird at first, but if you’re staying in Tromso for a while, you’ll eventually get used to the dark.

What To Do In Tromso?

Chase the Northern Lights! Tromso is one of the most popular places on the planet for Aurora Borealis viewing, and it’s the main reason why so many people visit this charming town in Northern Norway. Luckily for you, we already have a rather detailed guide on the best places to see Northern Lights, as well as everything else you need to know to prepare for the chase.

On the off chance, you’re not interested in the spectacular dancing lights, there are still a few things you can do to have fun in Tromso, depending on when you’re visiting. Summer visits can be very strange for European tourists since you get 24 hours of sunlight. The sun doesn’t set above the Arctic Circle, which results in the phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. It’s almost as peculiar as the Aurora Borealis, and it’s certainly a good reason to visit Tromso in the summer.

Apart from unique natural phenomena, there are other ways to enjoy your time in Tromso. The town is close to the Lyngen Alps, which can provide hours upon hours of fun and excitement. Whether you’re into backcountry skiing, sleigh riding, or snowmobile safaris, the mountains won’t disappoint. You can even go on sleigh rides with reindeer, for the ultimate Santa experience!

When it comes to exploring the town of Tromso, the Arctic Cathedral should be one of the top sights on your list. The church was constructed in the 20 th century from metal and concrete, and it’s an incredibly beautiful building with a design that’s just slightly out of place for a church.

There’s also the arctic aquarium Polaria, the Polarmuseet history museum, and the beautiful Charlottenlund Recreational Park. It’s a great idea to ride the Tromso cable car to Storsteinen for some incredible panoramic views of the town. The cable car ride is also popular for Northern Lights viewing with travelers who don’t want to go on long-haul rides chasing them.

On top of that, let’s not forget about all the magnificent fjords in the greater Tromso area. You can visit them on your own or go on organized expeditions to see the best fjords near Tromso. It’s usually better to go with experienced guides since you don’t need to worry about transportation to and from Tromso.

Another popular sea-based activity is whale watching, but only if you’re in Tromso between November and February. This is the ideal period for whale watching and it’s easily one of the best things you can do in the area.

Header Image courtesy of wikimedia

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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3 Days in Tromso: How to Have the Best Trip Ever (+ 10 Top Tips)

Let me show you how to spend your 3 days in Tromso. It’s a lovely city, but relatively small, making it a great place for a short city break. However, there’s lots to see just outside the city too…

With three days in Tromso you can see and do a lot. It’s a relatively place, but there’s lots going on, and so many tours and experiences to enjoy too. Three days is enough, but you don’t want to waste any time either, so I’d recommend having a thorough read of this post and taking what we learnt and adding it to your own Tromso itinerary.

How to Have the Best 3 Days in Tromso

Right, let’s get down to it with this Tromso travel blog. You’ve got three days in Tromso to make the most of, here’s how me and my brother did it, one dark and dreary December. All the best things to do in Tromso are right here.

If you’re not travelling from England to Tromso, then you can skip this next section…

Arriving in Tromso from England, via Oslo

Get the 2:30pm flight from Gatwick to start your 3 days in Tromso. You’ll need to transfer in Oslo. I’d strongly recommend the fish smorebrod from the Seafood Bar in the airport. That, with a beer was 250 NOK, so £20. But absolutely delicious, and you know, you’re in Norway. That salmon .

If you haven’t got your booze supplies yet, buy a few bottles at Oslo Airport to pass the transfer time. You’ll see the queues of people filling their suitcases. It sure is expensive on the other side. I’d already picked up a bottle of Monkey Shoulder whisky at Gatwick Airport, so we were sorted.

9pm in Tromso: arriving in Oslo

Time for your flight from Oslo – you’ll land at 11pm in Tromso. It’s a tiny airport so your luggage will be out very soon. Make your way out to the Flybuss parked just outside. Just tell the bus driver you want to go to Tromso, a ten-minute ride away and 120 NOK return. The buses leave every 20 minutes so don’t worry if you miss it. Or if you’re a moneybags, get a taxi (totally unnecessary).

Tell the bus driver your hotel and he’ll tell you when to get off. If you’re staying at Viking Apartments like I did, and I’d definitely recommend, it was about the third stop. Nothing is too far from each other if you make a mistake.

And if you’re going in December, watch out for that ice. If you’re going to Tromso in the summer , check out the advice on that link from Where Angie Wanders.

Wondering what to do in Tromso when you arrive?

Dump your stuff, check out your new palace, have a walk down to the port two minutes away and hit the bars . I’d recommend the Huken Pub , which serves the locally produced Mack beer, made in the most northern brewery in the world. The burgers here are also pretty epic, if you’re hungry.

Again, watch out for the ice, me and my brother had one of those “woah, woah” wind your arms around / try to stand up straight moments where we both nearly fell over.

If you want a flash and fancy bar go to Bardus , just off the main street in Tromso, near the Bibliotek and the Burger King. Or if you’re more of a rocker, check out the Bla Rock Bar , don’t ask for the local Norwegian spirit it was minging and expensive. The bar is cool though!

If you’re super wiped and just want to sleep, you’ll have time to go back on this 3 days in Tromso itinerary.

Day 1 Friday: explore Tromso

Get out and pick up a few breakfast things from the supermarket over the road. Cheaper and easier, especially seeing as even the coffee shops in Tromso don’t open until 10am. Eat. It’s cold out there and you’ll need the energy for the day ahead.

If you haven’t booked your trips yet head to the Tourist Information point at the port to see what’s running. Snow and rain can change things daily. They’re ever so friendly in there. Had a lovely chat. I’d recommend trying to book a Northern Lights tour for tonight, and then at least you have another night if they say the visibility isn’t good.

We booked our Tromso Northern Lights trip with Arctic Explorers, and our snowmobiling and Sami trip with Arctic Guide Service.

If you want to combine your Northern Lights trip with a husky experience, check out this tour . There’s also a Northern Lights with reindeer sledding one here . Both look amazing!

I’d recommend sorting your trips before you head out on your 3 days in Tromso. That way you don’t have to spend time while you’re there on deciding what to do.

Once that’s sorted head to Riso for coffee . It’s the number one rated food and drink thing to do in Tromso on Trip Advisor, thanks to the cakes, imported coffee and general delightful ambience. And the bearded bar men I’m sure.

We ended up sitting to a friendly Norwegian couple who were being interviewed by the BBC the next day. They were telling us all about life in Tromso, with the 24-hour darkness and all, and it was fascinating to have a real local’s point of view on it.

Noon in Tromso

We decided to just hang out in Tromso today, seeing as our snowmobiling was postponed till Sunday. We walked the bridge to the Arctic Cathedral – definitely recommended (opens at 3pm) – and explored the city more. We booked some skis out for tomorrow from Tromso Outdoor and got absolutely drenched walking back.

For lunch we tried the burgers we’d seen last night from Huken, every bit as good as they looked. If you have 3 days in Tromso, you need to dedicate at least one meal to this place. Quick game of chess while we finished up our pints and went back to our apartment to chill out.

We ended up chilling out a bit too much and polishing off a bottle of wine and missing the museums. But your weekend Tromso itinerary should definitely include a trip to Polaris and the Polar Museum . Both close at 5pm, so make sure you get in there. Stuffed polar bears and feeding time with the seals awaits!

If you’re not going on a Northern Lights trip tonight, for dinner go to Arctandria at the port. Unfortunately we had a hiccup with planning and didn’t get to go here. Our university lecturer friend recommended it to us though, thanks to the traditional Norwegian fare there. Whales, reindeer, this is the place to try it.

You can catch some live music at Rorbua and Skarven, but don’t go to G Bar. Full of pushy, rude old Norwegian men in our experience.

Day 2: Saturday, cross country skiing and Northern Lights hunt

Rustle yourself something up from your kitchen supplies for breakfast, then it’s straight to the place next to Tromso Outdoor for coffee (can’t seem to find the name of it anywhere). Ready for Tromso Outdoor to open at 9am to pick up your skis.

The stop for the number 40 bus is only a five minute walk away so make your way there for the next bus – make sure you take some water and a snack as we didn’t see anywhere to buy anything from on the cross country skiing trail.

Get your boots in the skis and explore! Even if you only have the slightest understanding of skiing you can save money by just renting them out, rather than joining a class. It really wasn’t that hard. My brother got YouTube tutorials up on his phone and we worked it out.

Three hours later darkness fell (at 1pm) and we walked back rather than getting the bus. All downhill and saved the money. I’d recommend you take a flask like my brother did, kept us warm!

Go home to shower and warm up.  

We ended up going on an hour-long hunt for reindeer to eat, just because everyone kept telling us how good it was. Failed due to it being 2pm and nowhere opening till later, and a few places saying on their websites they have it when they don’t.

What we learnt: either go to Bardus , if you want fancy, or Olbus if you want cheap and tasty, and order a smorbrod and Middle Eastern platter to share. That’ll give you the energy for tonight.

5pm: Northern Lights Tour

If you book your Northern Lights tour with Arctic Explorers you’ll be picked up at around 5:15pm for your tour. Your driver will take you out on the hunt, possibly via Finland with a campfire on a frozen lake, like we did.

It turned into an 11 hour trip, but it really didn’t feel like it at the time. The 11 hours basically consisted of eating the arctic explorer food cooked on the camping fire, chatting, willing the Northern Lights to show up and hearing stories of life out here.

I wasn’t cold in the special suits they gave us, but I did have a few moments of just wanting to be home to be honest, it was a long time to be out on the ice!

But that’s the thing with trying to find Northern Lights in Tromso, you just can’t plan it!

Although I did manage to sleep on the bus. Make sure to pack a hip flask to stay warm.

We got back, yikes. And then had to pack.

More great tours in Tromso

There are a lot of great tours you can do with 3 days in Tromso, it’s up to you to decide between them. I’ve listed the ones we did above, but here are a few more to consider in your Tromso itinerary.

• Dog Sledding in Camp Tamok
• Ice Domes Guided Tour and Reindeer Visit – one of the most popular things to do in Tromso
• A One Day Husky Adventure

Click each one to find the latest prices!

Sunday – snowmobiles and Sami  

Get some breakfast to help you deal with the cold. You’ll need to drop your stuff with reception to look after for the day.

If you follow what we did you’ll be up and ready for an 8:50am pick up to go snowmobiling, see the reindeer and learn about Sami culture . I was absolutely wiped from the night before, couldn’t even stay awake to hear what our guide Anita was telling us on the way. My head kept lolling in and out of sleep but when my eyes were open I saw the incredible snow covered mountain ranges all around us.

After 90 minutes we made it. As soon as I stepped out into the cold I was awake. The snowmobiling was awesome, the reindeers pretty cool and Nils from the Sami tribe taught us so much about a culture I’d never even heard of. He also told us an interesting story about Bear Grylls, and what a fraud he is. Apparently getting the samis to kill the reindeers and drain the blood, then going on TV saying he’d done it.

Nils also let me use his toilet in his Sami house, which was very exciting.

Time to leave. This time you’ll get to go across the Arctic Cathedral Bridge in a car, rather than on breezy foot.

Back at home and we had a coffee from the free machine at Viking Apartments and collected our stuff. We got the bus from two minutes away in town by the church. Ten minutes to the airport and we were there for 5pm. My brother was flying back to Barcelona so I went with him to the airport. But if you’re getting the later Gatwick flight to England, it’s time to explore the restaurants of Tromso.

I’d try the sushi in the port, Roast, or Arcanria if you haven’t been yet. Choice is yours!

3 Days in Tromso

I hope that gives you an idea of what you can fit into a long weekend in Tromso. Pretty epic hey?

We had a great time. It is pretty expensive though so make sure you take a look at my guide to how much 3 days in Tromso will cost you before you go.

Considering how dark it got so early, I think we managed to get a good amount of activities in. Shame we missed the museums, but given that my brother lives in Spain, and me in England, we just enjoyed hanging out for a few days.

10 top tips for a weekend in Tromso / 3 days in Tromso

1. Don’t go in December. People asked us why we’d chosen to go then, it rains a lot. January to March sounds like the best time to visit Tromso.

2. Stay somewhere cool, like Viking Apartments – great to have a big, warm space to go back to, and your own kitchen. Or at least somewhere special like these unique places to stay in Tromso I found.

3. Buy stuff for breakfast and snacks from the supermarket to save money.

4. Dress warm. And then warmer than that.

5. Pack some good, grippy shoes. Check out my winter packing list for inspiration.

6. I’d recommend all the activities we did , with the companies we did them with. But there are always more to see and do. Check out the Tromso activities on GetYourGuide and compare prices, experiences and reviews for the best experiences. Book in advance so you don’t spend time wondering what to do in Tromso while you’re there.

7. Get enough sleep and pace yourself. The polar nights totally wiped us out, was it lack of Vitamin D? We’re both pretty active people but the dark knocked us for six. I could barely keep awake on the last day.

8. We didn’t have time in our schedule to say no but I’d recommend that if the guide says you only have a very slim chance of seeing the Northern Lights to save your money and wait for another night. Even if you do see them, they won’t be particularly bright.

9. Take a flask with whisky. Warmed us up no end. We got through a litre of Monkey Shoulder.

10. Eat reindeer at Arcantria on your first night – my biggest regret is that we didn’t go – everyone kept telling us how nice it is and we planned to go on the final night but then got my brother’s flight time wrong so couldn’t go.

Any more recommendations for what to do in Tromso?

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

Also curious on the budget also, the jackets they given to you buy the snowmobile trip or your own?

Great review I’m sure a lot of hepful info provided. I’d love to know what your budget was for this 3 day trip?

I’m off to Tromso next week! I’m slightly worried how cold it will be but really hope to see The Northern Lights! Looks like you had so much fun!!

How did it go Annie? I thought it was a really cool place, but yeah, bit gutted that we didn’t see the Lights. I really hope I get to one day!

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Photos is very beautiful 🙂

Looks like you had a great time in Tromso, I went in Feb and also went to Hukken Pub for one of those epic burgers!

Trams looks amazing – can’t wait to visit!

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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 .

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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

Are you interested in a FREE Printable Packing List for 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.

The ultimate guide to Tromsø (4-5 days)

When it comes to travelling in winter wonderland, few places can match upto the astounding beauty of Tromso. After being locked up for a considerably long time due to the pandemic, me and my girlfriend decided to pack our bags and head to Tromso for a small break from the hustle-bustle of Copenhagen and be close to nature. Fortunately, we ended being right in the middle of it !

This itinerary will help you in planning a hassle-free trip to Tromso and explore all the possible unique activities that one can try here.

Important tip: It is NOT needed to rent a car in Tromso ! All tour companies provide pick-up and drop-off from hotel which is included in the price of the activities. So, its absolutely fine to use the public transport to go to Tromso city from the airport and then transportation related to every tour is taken care of by the tour agencies.

Day 1: Arrival in Tromso

We arrived at Tromso in the afternoon around 2 pm on a very grey day with intermittent snowfall. We took a cab from the airport to our hotel Scandic Grand Tromso , put our bags in the cloak room and headed out to grab a bite. We wandered around the picturesque streets for sometime before heading to Mathallen for a late lunch. We tried the fish soup and it was delicious ! Their wine collection is super impressive. For dinner, we had already reserved a table at Bardus which is an impressive restaurant in terms of its decor, menu and service. I tried the reindeer meat which i can highly recommend while my girlfriend tried the fish which was very tender and delicious as well. We coupled it with some red wine.

Assorted fishes

Local cod with fish eggs

Day 2: Sami experience and reindeer feeding

It was a very bright and sunny day which started with an excellent breakfast at the hotel after which we headed out for our adventure of the day which was to feed reindeers and experience Sami culture up close with the native people. We chose Sami adventure for this trip. It is a 5-6 hour long activity where we drove out to Sommarøy to see some beautiful snow covered landscapes and then had lunch at a very fancy restaurant. After that we headed to a reindeer farm owned by a Sami where he carries out herding activities. It was amazing experience to feed the reindeers by hand. They are very calm animals and don't shy away when food is offered to them. Post that, we went into a traditional tent and had an informative session about the Sami culture and the importance of ' joik ' which is their traditional way of singing and a very important part of their culture whilst sipping some hot tea. On our way back, we witnessed a magnificent sunset over the city.

Feeding reindeers

A word of caution: I t is recommended to wear safety glasses or sunglasses when feeding the reindeers to prevent any chance of injury to the eye from the sharp antlers of the reindeers. Injuries have happened in the past and to the herders themselves !

Day 3: Husky sledging

What's a trip to the northernmost part of the Nordics without some husky sledging ! A lot of people have the idea that husky sledging is unethical because animals are subjected to an activity for pleasure of humans. I too had my skepticism in place which was put to rest once i reached the husky farm and we were given an introduction on how huskies are natural hunters and why its important for them to run and be physically active. The treatment to the huskies was top notch and they are incredibly friendly, viciously energetic and very well taken care of. We chose a self-drive husky sledge with Arctic Adventures . Overalls, boots, gloves and caps were provided by the team and was included in the price of the trip. The sledging tour took around 2 hours where we rode the wooden sledge through the snow and taking turns to switch between rider and passenger. There are around 3-4 members from the travel team who oversee proceedings for the whole time. It is a relatively safe activity to do.

Energetic ride

Friendly huskies and me

Day 4: Snowmobiling in Lyngen Alps

A trip to Norway in winters is incomplete without a day of snowmobiling in the Lyngen Alps. We chose to go with Green Gold of Norway for this activity. Due to the restrictions on where snowmobiling can be done, we had to drive out of Tromso for this. The journey consisted of a 50 minute bus ride, then changing on to a ferry for crossing a fjord and then riding in cars for 20 minutes to the location of the snowmobiling. The guides were super fun and briefed us about the safety procedures. The gear that they rented out to us was in extremely clean and in very sturdy shape. After a 10 minute practice session we proceeded to ride up the mountains and manoeuvring among the trees was a super adrenaline rush ! At the very top we had some coffee and then had a 'free-go' of 15 minutes where we could ride at whatever speed we wanted in a relatively flat and clear area. We were also offered a free snow-shoeing activity which was also very nice on part of the agency. A warm and cosy lunch was also served with a very beautiful view from the dining room.

Snowmobiling

Atop the mountain

Day 5: Northern Lights

The whole point of traveling to Tromso was for seeing the Northern Lights in the first place ! It is one of those places on earth from where the chances of seeing the Auroras are the highest and we were blessed with that when we went out on our adventure with Marianne for that. We chose Aurora Chasing Tour at Mariannes Heaven On Earth Aurora Chaser Tours since the tour is organized in small groups with special focus on photography. Overalls, winter socks and boots, winter gloves and handwarmers were provided to all. Marianne also has 10 tripods in her car along with other practical accessories like small torch lights etc. so that photography enthusiasts can have the full experience. We drove out of Tromso around 6 pm and went all the way to the border of Finland where we witnessed the magical auroras for the whole night at a freezing temperature of -12C. We had some warm soup and hot cocoa too and made our way back to Tromso at 2 am in the morning.

Magical Auroras

Day 6: Exploring city

We had our return on this day and spend the morning exploring the city on foot. There was heavy snowfall and it felt nothing short of a winter fairyland with the streets white from snow and the colorful buildings providing a stunning backdrop. We checked out of the hotel at 12 pm and went to the airport to catch pur flight back to Copenhagen with a memory card full of pictures and a bucket full of memories.

Where to stay in Tromso:

Standard accommodations are available like:

1. Scandic Grand Hotel (Budget)

2. Scandic Ishavhotel (Budget)

3. Radisson Blu (Luxury)

4. Thon hotel (Mid-range)

How much does it cost ?

The activities are usually priced around the same range for all agencies. Here is something to help you get an idea of how much should you plan for different experiences (price per person0:

1. Reindeer feeding: 165-180 USD

2. Husky sledge: 220-240 USD

3. Snowmobiling: 200-220 USD

4. Northern lights (small group): 170 USD

5. Food and drinks: 50-80 USD/day

Budget friendly tips:

1. Book a hotel with breakfast.

2. Lunch is usually arranged on the group tours at really good places.

3. Avoid renting a car.

4. Bring in booze from duty free because alcohol is very expensive in Norway.

5. Most tours provide winter clothing so you can travel light.

The Daily Packers

A genuine tromsø travel guide – 6 days.

• March 9, 2023

A Genuine Tromsø Travel Guide

Hey everyone! in February 2022, we spent 1-week in Northern Norway, in the Troms og Finnmark county.

We arrived by plane in Tromsø, the main city in this region and after renting a car, we went 2h30 away in the Lyngen Alps. There we spent 4 days in a small cabin located in Kåfjord Municipality where we enjoyed the landscape of the Norwegian Fjord and snowshoed the amazing mountains surrounding them.

Next, we drove back to Tromsø, but we didn’t stay in town. We opted for a small house located on Håkøya, a small island 25-min from Tromsø. While we were in Tromsø, we had the chance to see a reindeer race in the main street. Such event only happens once a year. What a luck!

While near Tromsø, we also did a self-drive husky sledding tour which was a unique experience. We then discovered a super cozy coffee shop and store with a breath-taking view of the Ersfjord. Finally, on our last day, as it was raining, we did a road trip around Kvaløya island which is also next to Tromsø. There we went all the way to the open ocean.

Unfortunately, due to the bad weather, we couldn’t see the northern lights as the sky was fully covered the whole week. Yet we had an amazing time!

In this article, you will get our complete story as well as all the best things to do in Tromsø. If you are ready, let’s dive in this Tromsø Travel Guide.

Here is our complete video from this trip :

Table of Contents

Mapping the tromsø travel guide.

Getting to Tromsø

The best and easiest way to get to Tromsø is to fly directly to its international airport. There are lots of direct flights from the main European cities as well as lots of national flights through Oslo.

For example, we flew from Frankfurt we had the option to do:

• Frankfurt – Oslo – Tromsø
• Frankfurt – Tromsø

From the airport, you can either rent a car which we did our use public transportation such as airport express, city buses and taxi.

The airport express runs between the airport and Tromsø city centre. It takes approximately 15 min.

City bus routes 24, 40 and 42 run between the airport and Tromsø city centre. Tickets can be purchased on the bus in cash.

Read more here

Moving Around Tromsø

Depending on what you plan to do there is 2 answers to that. If you want to enjoy Tromsø city center and do mostly tours, then you won’t need to move from the city center, and everything can be done on foot. Most of the tours depart from the Radisson blue hotel.

If like us, you want to explore more around and get a more unique experience, you will have to rent a car. We used rentalcars for that. The car we got was lounge type with winter kit (nails on the tires). It was quite OK to drive around even under the snow. If you feel not too comfortable that a 4×4 is the best choice as this would go everywhere.

It is true that at first, we had some hard time as we weren’t used of ice on the road, especially to park on slopes were going slow is going slip and make you go on the side. Whereas you need to get faster and park in one shot. It happened to us. While parking the first night in Lyngen Alps, we were too slow and lost control ending on the side with the car stuck. Our host came to help us and told us how to do. It was also cool to meet him and surprisingly he was a Samy.

When to Visit Tromsø

You can visit this region of Norway all year round. Still the best time would be January/February for northern light and winter sports as the day start to get longer.

And June to September for hiking in summer.

Where to Stay

• (€):  Smarthotel Tromsø
• (€€):  Radisson Blu Hotel, Tromsø
• (€€€): Enter St. Elisabeth Suites
• Airbnb near Tromsø: Bente’s house
• Airbnb in Lyngen Alps: Cabine Jorbaorrit

What to Eat

Some of the most traditional dishes are:

• Reindeer meat
• Whale steak.
• Brown cheese
• Potatoes pancake

We discover a great coffee shop called “Svermeri Kafé og Redesign” where you can get a lunch menu for 26€ per person (that’s a regular price there). For that you can have a fish soups or vegetarian soups, a slide of cake and a drink.

If you want to save money on food, avoid restaurant and cook at home 😊

Best things to do in Tromsø Travel Guide

Fjellheisen cable car & tromsø viewpoint.

To get one of the best views of Tromsø, you can take the Fjellheisen Cable Car or hike all the way up there. When we were there, the weather was dreadful, so we gave it up. But we heard the view if worth the hike.

The cable car is a nice alternative, but it is quite pricy.

Arctic Cathedral

Famous for its unusual shape, Tromsdalen Church or the Arctic Cathedral used modern architecture. Built in 1965 inspired by Artic nature.

Tromsø Bridge

While you are at the artic cathedral, you can see one of the main bridges reaching Tromsø. As Tromso, is on an island, 2 bridges connect it to the land and islands around.

Tromsø City Library and Archive

If like us, you have a rental car and parking on the tunnels. You will exit the parking lot at the Tromsø City Library and Archive. It is a nice place to see the local community, as well as using the free public toilet in it 😊

Tromsø City Center

The city center of Tromsø consist of a couple of streets regrouped around one main one. The city center is super cute with the old wooden houses and is the perfect place to shop for souvenir.

While we were there, we were lucky and got to see a bit of the reindeer race, a one in a year event.

The Polar Museum

As the weather wasn’t the best, we escaped to one museum. We opted for the Polar Museum where we learn about the local expeditions and life in the past in the region. It was quite interesting.

If you like museum, you can also consider perspective Museum, Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum

Tromsø Cathedral

In the middle of town there is a super cute Cathedral with local architecture.

• Bryggejentene AS

Located on the island of Kvaløya, some 20-30min away from Tromsø, Bryggejentene AS is the best coffee shop around. Perfect to enjoy a teacup while admiring the Ersfjord. And if you cannot get a window table, inside is still super cozy. There is also an amazing store filled with beautiful cups and appliance. It was hard not to want to buy everything in it.

Sommarøy & Kvaløya

Kvaløya or Sállir is an island in Tromsø Municipality. At 737 square kilometers, it is the fifth largest island in mainland Norway, and it is the perfect place for a road trip. Follow the island coastal road to Sommarøy, an old fishing village where the open ocean really starts. There make a lunch break by one of the sand beach or have lunch at the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel Tromsø AS. Then head back to Tromso, using the road on the other side of the island.

Kattfjordeidet

Along the way, stop at a huge lake located on the side of the road. We are told that this is one of the best places to see the northern lights.

Tromso Wilderness Center - Dog sledding

The only experience we really wanted to have in Tromsø was the Dog Sledding. We opted for a self-driving tour from Tromsø Wilderness Center. We arrived on our own at 10h at the place which was not even 15min from where we stayed. There we check-in, received a pair of boots and polar clothes.

We then waited the bus from Tromsø. Once everyone there we got a small 5min course about sledding, how to break, safety measure and so on. We then went on our sledge. I started driving and Tina was inside. Beginning was a bit slow as we stopped a lot. Once we changed and Tina was driving it was better. But generally, it is a bit slow.

We then went back to the center where we learn some quick facts about the dogs. Those are Alaskan huskies and were bread by man a century ago to be able to do long distance sledge. There are a mix of Siberian huskies and other breads. There are super friendly and love men. They are super thin even though they eat a lot. The smarter one is in front, the stronger one in the rear. There isn’t an alpha dog. And so on…

We then went on cuddling them for 20min and saw the younger one as well. Lunch was reindeer stew or veggies couscous tabouleh, breads and chocolate cake with coffee, tea. It was yummy and you could take more than one portion.

After lunch we part ways. We talked a bit with our guide Noa which is actually a German season worker there.

You can book here

STORHAUGEN (Hike)

One of the reasons we went to Tromsø was for nature and snow. That’s why we stayed some 2h30 from Tromsø, in the Lyngen Alps. There we went to a hike to Dalberget/STORHAUGEN.

The weather was open when we left, but soon after we started hiking, it covered and it started snowing. The beginning of the hike wasn’t easy as there were lots of water under the snow. We ultimately made it out the wet area and started going up. But the hiked are not well marked.

We then kept going up but off tracks making our own way up. Made a tea break as it was super steep. Every step our feet was going 30cm in the snow even with the snowshoes. At some point, we reached the tracks of 2 women with snowboard. We then followed them but then it again closed, and snow started heavily falling. So, we decided to head back down.

When we started, we noticed a small cabin, so we went to check it out. It was called the BBQ hut. There we met a Finnish woman that was waiting her friends that went snowboarding. We chatted a bit with here and eat something.

Those cabins can be used by everyone for free. You can set up a fire in them but need to bring your own wood. There is everything inside, a saw, things to clean or make a BBQ…

If you want to get the complete hiking guide of the Lyngen Alps, you can find it there .

Hike in Olderdalen or Kafjord

There are tons of hike to do around. Most of them are beautiful and going through Forrest up the mountains. When high enough, the view of the Fjord is breath-taking.

Northern light Road

This 620 km scenic road sweeps through Lapland beautiful nature. This is the road to take from Tromsø toward Finland to make your own northern light tour. (That’s the road tours are using). Follow it on a bright night or even a cloudy one. We heard that even with bad weather there is a chance to see the northern light by passing the border and enter Finland where the weather is generally less cloudy.

To check your change of northern lights, you can use the following apps:

• Aurora Alerts
• My Aurora Forecast

While we were there, it was too cloudy, and we didn’t know about going to Finland so we missed them but in February they can be seen from 7pm to 5am.

While having lunch during our Dog Sledding experience, we sat with a French couple from Bordeaux. Super friendly, it was nice to chat with them. We learn that they saw northern light at the border with Finland. From that we understood what was the road taken by the tour. And it was near where we stayed. They also said that Northern lights are not green nor yellow but grey or white. The trick to see them is with your phone because it is easy to miss them.

If we knew that before!!! Seems like to see Northern lights you must go to Finland. The finish women we met hiking also told us that they saw them in Finland on their way to Norway.

More things to do in Tromsø Travel Guide

• Reindeer and Samy experience
• Northern light tours
• Northern Lights Catamaran Cruise
• Norwegian Fjords Tour
• Arctic Fjord Speedboat Trip
• Whale Watching Fjord Cruise

An amazing 6-day Tromsø Itinerary

Our itinerary was:

• Arrive in Tromsø
• Transfer to accommodation.
• Hike in the Lyngen Alps behind our cabin
• Enjoy the location.
• Hike in the Lyngen Alps, Dalberget
• Road to Tromsø
• Explore Tromsø.
• Huskies Sledding
• Road trip Sommarøy & Kvaløya

Bedre en dårlig hest enn ingen hest i det hele tatt – Better a poor horse than no horse at all

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2 days in Tromsø itinerary: visit Norway’s Arctic city!

Your two days in Tromsø itinerary could involve husky sledding, learning about Sami culture, visiting quirky museums or taking in views of the Arctic harbour from the top of a nearby mountain. Are you ready to learn all about this enchanting northern city?

“It’s not too bad”, Rebecca, our local guide, encouraged. She’d just jumped into the icy waters of Tromsø harbour after exiting from PUST, a floating sauna.

Telling myself not to think too much, I hastily climbed down the ladder.

My body lurched at the near-freezing temperatures, but after I’d taken a few deep breaths, I found myself surprisingly enjoying the refreshing chill.

For a few seconds, at least – then I hastily climbed back up the ladder and retreated back into PUST.

Although flinging myself into 2°C water was a daunting prospect, as I watched the sun rise over the city of Tromso on the walk back, I felt awake, refreshed and content. 

I was just finishing two days in Tromsø, a city nestled well within the Arctic circle. I’d fed reindeer, cheers’d at the world’s northernmost brewery, hunted for northern lights and learned about Polar expeditions. 

Here, I’ve put together my full Tromsø itinerary for any future jet setters to this unique city!

T his blog post contains affiliate links. On this trip, I was a guest of Widerøe airlines and Visit Tromsø. All opinions are my own.

Two days in Tromsø itinerary : day one

Your first day in Tromsø includes exploring the museums and landmarks of the city by day and northern lights chasing by night!

Take a dip in PUST Sauna

Pust means breathe in Norwegian, and it’s a valuable thing to remember when you’re bracing the chilly Arctic waters. 

However, the fact that you have a sauna next-door to warm up in means that taking a dip in Tromsø harbour isn’t too intimidating. We all survived at least!

Of course, if you don’t fancy taking the Arctic plunge, you can just relax in the floating sauna, taking in stunning vistas of Tromsø harbour around you. 

I’d recommend heading to PUST first thing in the morning, perhaps for sunrise if it’s at a sensible time (it can be all hours of the day, depending on the time of year!). 

We visited on our last morning in Tromsø, but it’s a novel way to be introduced to the city, so if possible I’d recommend heading here on your first day.

You can book a session at PUST on their website – tickets must be arranged in advance. 

Explore the city

Once you’ve taken a dip in the polar waters and warmed up sufficiently in the sauna, head back to your hotel to refuel (the breakfast buffet at Thon Hotel Tromsø is exceptional – more on that below!) and then go back out to see Tromsø’s myriad of museums and attractions.

There’s plenty of appeal in just strolling around, taking in Northern Norway’s magical culture, but to learn a little more about the city’s history, mythology and people, I recommend popping into the following: 

The Troll Museum

Yes, a museum all about trolls!

This kid-friendly establishment uses AR to bring images of trolls to life and has plenty of information about these local beasts.

They’re popular figures in Norwegian mythology and their origins, plus a few legendary troll stories, are displayed in the exhibit. 

The Polar Museum 

Learn about Arctic exploration in this conclusive museum , which stretches over three floors.

Its main focus is expeditions that left Tromsø for the North Pole and elsewhere in the Arctic, with information about how the explorers survived – and some gruesome details of times they didn’t.

You’ll also learn about Arctic animals and culture in and around Tromsø. 

Part-museum part-aquarium, Polaria focuses on the diverse marine life around Arctic Tromsø and what can be done to protect it.

You’ll learn about the impacts of ice caps melting on Northern Norway (as my guidebook told me “today in Tromsø is tomorrow everywhere else”) and the tragic effects of plastic pollution on sea life in the Arctic. 

Spend some time educating yourself at the exhibit, then head to the underwater tunnel to see the friendly seals.

They’ll glide over you, making for some fantastic photos. There’s also seal feeding at certain times of the day. 

Head to the Arctic Cathedral 

Probably Tromsø’s most famous landmark, the Arctic Cathedral is a triangular-shaped building made partially of glass.

It was designed to let maximum light in the winter months, but the priest soon discovered that it let far too much light in the bright summer months.

Subsequently, he ordered its stained glass window, which is one of the largest in Europe. 

You’ll need to head over the Tromsø bridge to reach the Arctic Cathedral; we walked on the way there (to enjoy the gorgeous harbour vistas!) and took a bus back for convenience; regular buses leave from just outside of the cathedral.

Bottoms up at Mack’s brewery

Cheers! Tromsø is home to the northernmost Burger King and the northernmost Hard Rock Cafe, and potentially the northernmost brewery in the world (several sources claim so, although it depends if the brewery in Svalbard is counted as one…). 

However, if it’s not the northernmost it’s at least one of the northernmost, and inside you’ll find cosy tables, a buzzing atmosphere and 67 beer taps (it’s Europe’s strongest draught bridge – another superlative for you!).

Despite visiting a brewery, I’m not actually a fan of standard beer, so I opted for a delicious alcoholic ginger beer with chilli.

My beer-drinking companions highly rated the actual stuff though! 

Dinner at Bardus Bistro

Tromsø’s dining scene is casual; there are some excellent restaurants, but unlike Bergen (where we spent two days in previously), there isn’t a huge emphasis on visiting as a gastronomical destination.

If you’re visiting in winter, it’s perfectly fine (and expected) to dress in multiple layers, Michelin-man style, and then disrobe your many coats when you walk into a restaurant.

Thanks to the diverse population in Tromsø, there’s a range of international options, with everything from sushi and ramen to hand-made pizza.

Visit Bardus Bistro , a chilled-out eatery, for a range of dishes, with something to suit all palates. I opted for the vegan mushroom ramen and others had more traditional seafood or reindeer dishes.

Northern lights chase (in the winter)

Tromsø is widely regarded as one of the world’s best places to see the northern lights , and throughout the winter season (from late October to April) tour buses depart the harbour, driving into the countryside to see the spectacle of lights dance across the sky. 

Our northern lights tour in February held a lot of promise;  but unfortunately, we weren’t that lucky with spotting the northern lights, just making out a glimmer of green on the horizon.

Our expert guide took some decent photos, but they were nothing like the phenomenal display of northern lights that I experienced in Reykjavik one month prior. 

However, many tour groups have had much more exhilarating displays of the northern lights in Tromsø (and many have left Reykjavik feeling disappointed with what they saw!).

It’s nature, and it’s luck of the draw, but it’s definitely worth at least trying to see them if you’re in Tromsø in the right season!

Click here for rates and availability of a northern lights tour.

Weekend in Tromsø itinerary: day two

Explore Tromsø’s surroundings on day two: experience the fjords, go husky sledding and visit Sami camps!

Bergen, which is much further south in Norway, is generally thought of as the destination to sail through the country’s majestic fjords. 

However, there are fjords around Tromsø, and tour boats depart the city every day to see them! 

These tours operate in both summer and winter; in the summer you might sail to a nearby island and enjoy some time on the beach, whereas in the winter you could have the chance to see whales!

And whatever season you visit Tromsø in, you’ll enjoy jagged fjord views with blue water snaking through. 

We enjoyed a cruise on board the Arctic Eagle with Northern Yachting , where we learned about local history and took in some immense views of the city’s surroundings.

You can book a fjord experience via Get Your Guide – click here for rates and availability.

Husky sledding experience

In the summer months, island tours tend to last for a full day. But if you’re visiting Tromsø in the winter, you might have the chance to squeeze in an extra tour – husky sledding!

One of the best things to do in Tromsø in the snow, this tour involves meeting a pack of excitable huskies, clambering into a sled, and whizzing around the landscape. 

It’s two people per sled, with one person driving and one as a passenger (you can swap halfway through). 

This tour, bookable on Get Your Guide , includes a full briefing and a warm drink around the campfire after the excursion! 

Take the Fjellheisen cable car

Enjoy some of the north’s best views by taking the scenic Fjellheisen cable car to Mount Storsteinen.

As you ascend, you’ll witness far-reaching vistas both of the city’s landmarks and its surrounding fjords and mountains; but of course, the best view is from the very top.

At the top, there is a restaurant and hiking trails; some may be closed or access may be limited in the winter.

Sami camp experience

One of the most valuable things that you can do in Tromsø is to learn about Sami culture.

Sami people are indigenous to the northern part of Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden and Finland) and part of Russia. 

They have a rich culture, much of which involves reindeer; they have historically used the creature for livelihood, food, clothes and transport. 

The Sami people have suffered grossly unfair discrimination throughout history.

The situation has improved – nowadays there’s a Sami National Parliament and many of their traditions are protected – but it’s important to learn about the injustices they have faced, along with the tales of their culture and folklore. 

On a tour of a Sami ranch, you’ll be greeted by a Sami guide who will take you to a reindeer pen filled with around 300 hungry creatures.

You can take a bucket and edge into the pen, feeding reindeer as you go; or stand on the sidelines and watch the spectacle!

If the weather conditions permit, you’ll also have the chance to go on a reindeer sledding ride around the camp. Keep an eye on the sky while you do this; the northern lights can often be spotted here! 

After reindeer feeding or sledding, you’ll venture into a Sami tent where you’ll enjoy a reindeer or veggie stew and hear about everything from family traditions to facts about reindeer to customary clothes. 

Reindeer-herding Sami (which there are fewer of these days) typically migrate away from Tromsø in the summer months, so this experience is usually only available in winter. 

Click here to see rates and availability for the Sami tour that we took part in.

How to get to Tromsø

I was a guest of Widerøe , a Norwegian airline that connects eight European cities, including London and Aberdeen, to Bergen and then on to other Norwegian destinations, including Tromsø and Sogndal. 

Fairly small planes with a 2×2 seat configuration make the two-hour journey into the Arctic; free tea and coffee is served and you can enjoy entertainment by connecting your smartphone to the free WiFi. 

Generally, I enjoyed flying with Widerøe; and my flight anxiety was assured by the fact that the airline has some of the best pilots in the world.

On the way back, our plane was substantially delayed; this happens quite frequently due to the Arctic weather, so I’d recommend spending a night in Bergen on the way back to ensure that you make your connection. 

How to get around Tromsø 

Tromsø is a walkable city; we generally used our own two feet to get around!

However, bus routes ply the centre, connecting it to destinations like the Arctic cathedral and Tromsø Museum, and taxis are also available. 

Where to stay in Tromsø

We stayed at Thon Hotel Tromsø.  

It’s a contemporary, unpretentious hotel right in the city centre.

Rooms have comfortable beds, coffee machines, space for storage and a work area, and the modern en-suite bathrooms boast power showers with hot water. 

The breakfast buffet is the best I had in Norway, with fresh smoothies, enough cheese for a whole board, cooked options and plenty of fruit. 

Best time to visit Tromsø

I absolutely loved the charm of visiting Tromsø in winter. Sure, the weather’s cold, but it’s warmer than you’d perceive, thanks to the jet stream surrounding the city with mild water. 

From husky sledding to reindeer races to northern lights chasing to enjoying the magical glow over the whole city, there’s so much on offer in Tromsø in winter. 

However, you could also visit in midsummer (around June 21st) for midnight sun and warmer weather – which will give you the chance to explore Tromso’s surroundings a little more. 

Rebecca from Visit Tromsø told us her favourite time was autumn, she told us: “the colours are surreal, there’s a gorgeous glow about the city. Plus, there’s a chance of seeing the northern lights, and you don’t have to freeze when you do!’. 

Whatever the season, there’s always something to love about Tromsø!

What to pack for Tromsø

Your Tromsø packing list will vary wildly depending on when you are visiting.

If you’re exploring the Arctic city in the winter, as we did, I recommend packing the following: 

• waterproof ski jacket 
• waterproof salopettes 
• thermal leggings and a long-sleeve t-shirt
• thick tracksuit bottoms
• wooly warm jumper 
• thick socks
• waterproof boots

If you’re visiting in any other season, your packing list will vary depending on the temperature. It can reach highs of 30°C in the summer season (although this is very rare – 15°C is more common), so check the forecast before you head out. 

Are you ready to visit Tromsø?

Tromso’s been called “north of normal”, the “capital of the Arctic” and “the coolest city in the north (with the exception of perhaps Reykjavik)”.

When you step off the plane and drive into this remote city, which will be either carpeted with a blanket of snow or bathed in midnight sunshine, you’ll understand why it deserves all its nicknames.

Enchanting and alluring, Tromsø sucks you in – and, while it’s relatively easy to tick off the highlights in two days, I have no doubt that when you’re leaving, you’ll already be plotting your next trip north of the Arctic circle. 

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Airlines will now be required to give automatic cash refunds for canceled and delayed flights

FILE - Passenger drop off their baggage at United Airlines in C Terminal at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023, in Houston. The Biden administration issued final rules Wednesday, April 24, 2024, to require airlines to automatically issue cash refunds for things like delayed flights and to better disclose fees for baggage or canceling a reservation. (Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle via AP, File)

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The Biden administration issued final rules Wednesday to require airlines to automatically issue cash refunds for things like delayed flights and to better disclose fees for baggage or canceling a reservation.

The Transportation Department said airlines will be required to provide automatic cash refunds within a few days for canceled flights and “significant” delays.

Under current regulations, airlines decide how long a delay must last before triggering refunds. The administration is removing that wiggle room by defining a significant delay as lasting at least three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international ones.

Airlines still will be allowed to offer another flight or a travel credit instead, but consumers can reject the offer.

The rule will also apply to refunds of checked-bag fees if the bag isn’t delivered within 12 hours for domestic flights or 15 to 30 hours for international flights. And it will apply to fees for things such as seat selection or an internet connection if the airline fails to provide the service.

Complaints about refunds skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic, as airlines canceled flights and, even when they didn’t, many people didn’t feel safe sharing a plane cabin with other passengers.

Airlines for America, a trade group for large U.S. carriers, noted that refund complaints to the Transportation Department have fallen sharply since mid-2020. A spokesperson for the group said airlines “offer a range of options — including fully refundable fares — to increase accessibility to air travel and to help customers make ticket selections that best fit their needs.”

The group said the 11 largest U.S. airlines issued $43 billion in customer refunds from 2020 through 2023.

The Transportation Department issued a separate rule requiring airlines and ticket agents to disclose upfront what they charge for checked and carry-on bags and canceling or changing a reservation. On airline websites, the fees must be shown the first time customers see a price and schedule.

The rule will also oblige airlines to tell passengers they have a guaranteed seat they are not required to pay extra for, although it does not bar airlines from charging people to choose specific seats. Many airlines now charge extra for certain spots, including exit-row seats and those near the front of the cabin.

The agency said the rule will save consumers more than $500 million a year.

Airlines for America said its members “offer transparency and vast choice to consumers” from their first search.

The new rules will take effect over the next two years. They are part of a broad administration attack on what President Joe Biden calls “junk fees.” Last week, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced that his department will let state officials in 15 states help enforce federal airline consumer protection laws .

Watch CBS News

California Governor Newsom launches abortion travel ban ad campaign in Alabama

By Dave Pehling

Updated on: April 22, 2024 / 1:41 PM PDT / CBS San Francisco

California Governor Gavin Newsom is taking aim at states considering abortion travel bans with the launch of a new ad campaign.

Newsom's Campaign for Democracy ad is set to air in Alabama starting Monday. The governor tweeted out the ad in a social media post Sunday morning.

Alabama’s abortion ban has no exceptions for rape or incest. Now, Republicans are trying to criminalize young women’s travel to receive abortion care. We cannot let them get away with this. pic.twitter.com/gHbYJYlEXk — Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) April 21, 2024

The text with the video post reads, "Alabama's abortion ban has no exceptions for rape or incest. Now, Republicans are trying to criminalize young women's travel to receive abortion care. We cannot let them get away with this."

The 30-second commercial shows two nervous young women driving in a car passing a sign that reads "State Line 1 Mile." 

"We're almost there. You're gonna make it," the passenger tells the woman behind the wheel just before they hear a siren and are pulled over by a state trooper.

"Trump Republicans want to criminalize young Alabama women who travel for reproductive care," a voiceover says as the state trooper walks up to the car.

"Miss, I'm going to need you to step out of the vehicle and take a pregnancy test," the trooper says, waving a test stick in one hand. The next shot shows the driver leaning on the hood of her car as the trooper puts her in handcuffs.

"Stop them by taking action at RightToTravel.org ," the voiceover intones as the ad ends.

Alabama is currently weighing a bill that would make it a crime to help women travel outside the state in order to receive an abortion. The ad is part of a larger effort to combat travel bans across the United States. Newsom was behind a similar ad that ran in Tennessee.

The RightToTravel.org website says that those two states and Oklahoma are considering bills that ban minors from traveling out of state to get an abortion without parental consent, even if it's a case of incest or if there is abuse in the family.

It isn't the first action the governor has taken in the political battle over abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June of 2022. Two days after the ruling, Newsom partnered with the governors of Oregon and Washington to issue a multi-state commitment promising to defend access to reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives.

In September of that year, he launched a billboard campaign in seven of the most restrictive anti-abortion states urging women seeking the procedure to come to California for treatment. He also signed more than a dozen new abortion laws  protecting women's reproductive rights and ordered the state to end its contract with Walgreens after the pharmacy giant  indicated it would not sell an abortion pill by mail in some conservative-led states . 

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Dave Pehling started his journalism career doing freelance writing about music in the late 1990s, eventually working as a web writer, editor and producer for KTVU.com in 2003. He moved to CBS to work as the station website's managing editor in 2015.

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April 25, 2024 | For the campus and community

Travel restrictions near Memorial Mall area to continue through summer

As part of the University Hall project , some travel restrictions near the Memorial Mall area will remain in place through the summer.

Some parking spaces along Oval Drive near University Hall have been removed. While Oval Drive is still open, motorists should be aware of construction fencing in front of University Hall. Fencing is also up along the northside of University Hall, closing off the walkway between Schleman Hall. The walkway between University and Stone Halls will remain open throughout the project.

Additionally, fencing is expected to be installed around Heavilon Hall in late June with the goal of demolition for the building starting in early September after preparatory work. As a result of the fencing going up, the walkways near the Brown Laboratory of Chemistry and Grissom Hall will be closed. Pedestrians will be able to walk between Heavilon Hall and the Wetherill Laboratory of Chemistry.

Motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists should use caution in the area and obey all posted signs.

Questions about the project may be directed to Cy Rangel, project executive, at [email protected] . Parking questions may be directed to Parking Facilities at 765-494-9497 or  [email protected]  between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The lobby closes at 4 p.m.

Trans care restrictions force some families to travel hours, spend hundreds for treatment

More than 20 states have gender-affirming care restrictions.

Misty Stamm was working tirelessly to figure out the details: waking up early, the hourslong drives, booking hotels and finding doctors who could legally administer gender-affirming hormone therapy to her 16-year-old transgender daughter.

Stamm is living in one of the 24 states where legislation is restricting gender-affirming health care for transgender youth, so she and parents like her must make long, expensive trips out of their home states to find the care their children need, according to a new report from the Campaign for Southern Equality Research and Policy Center.

“If we didn't have the care, I don't think she'd be alive,” said Stamm.

Stamm, who lives in Tennessee, drove five hours to get her daughter to a gender clinic in Ohio when her family first started considering care options. She wanted her daughter to be seen by a physician in person.

With new gender-affirming care restrictions set to go into effect soon in Ohio, Stamm and her daughter have since turned to a telehealth provider in Virginia.

However, they still have to drive two hours to Virginia for the online appointment, as to not break Tennessee law, which also bans telehealth providers from providing care and treatments like puberty blockers and hormone therapies to a minor located in the state.

Stamm told ABC News that the time, effort and money they’re spending to access care is worth it.

When she came out as transgender at 13, “the mental health issues stopped completely,” said Stamm. “That affirmed to us that this was the right thing.”

Stamm's daughter had been in counseling and therapy since she was in fifth grade, struggling with her mental health and experiencing depression, anxiety and suicidal ideations.

At age 14, Stamm's daughter received puberty blockers to temporarily pause the development of physical sex characteristics. As her daughter grew older, the family and physicians together decided to move forward with hormone therapy. Throughout this process, they said, psychologists and therapists were consulted and were required for approvals.

“There's no talk of surgery or anything like that,” said Stamm. “That's a decision that she can make when she is an adult.”

Meanwhile, her mental health has progressed exponentially – Stamm said her daughter has since been released by her therapist and is only seen occasionally, as needed.

"She's just doing so well, and if we didn't have access -- we have to have it. She has to have it."

MORE: Report: LGBTQ content drove book banning efforts in 2023

Gas, airfare, lodging and other expenses to cross state lines and access gender-affirming care could cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, the Southern Equality report states.

Stamm says she and her husband have spent likely thousands of dollars in travel costs to get care and are anxiously awaiting the day their daughter turns 18 so she can access care more freely.

The report from Southern Equality Research and Policy Center found that it could take almost 20 hours of driving roundtrip for some families across the South and Midwest to reach a state where trans youth care is legally accessible.

Families with transgender children across southern Florida, Louisiana, Missouri and Texas are the hardest hit, according to the report -- they would need to take a more than eight-hour car ride one way to get to a clinic that serves trans youth.

For Jennifer, an Austin, Texas, resident who asked to go by a pseudonym for safety concerns, said the health care bans in her state threw her family into logistical and financial chaos.

Her 15-year-old daughter’s appointments to begin hormone therapy were canceled before the law in Texas even went into effect. When they sought out care in Louisiana, providers also were canceling appointments.

She sought out the help of local advocacy groups to help her family find a provider in Texas' neighbor to the west, New Mexico.

However, the costs continue to mount: “We are in a position that we could afford to buy plane tickets and stay in a hotel for a couple of nights and pay all of the out-of-pocket expenses for the medical care,” said Jennifer. “For a lot of people, that's probably not an option.”

Though telehealth has expanded opportunities for access to care, policies like those in Tennessee restrict these appointments for prescriptions from happening in the state and force some families like the Stamms to cross borders for online appointments.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, who signed the gender-affirming care ban , has defended the bill against legal challenges.

"Tennessee is committed to protecting children from permanent, life-altering decisions," said Lee in a post on social platform X after the Justice Department argued the law violates the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause.

Supporters of gender-affirming medical care bans argue that children should wait until they’re older to make these medical decisions, and that there needs to be more research on the impact of these procedures on patients.

In the state’s court filings in opposition to a lawsuit against the ban, the state invokes Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization – the decision which overturned Roe v. Wade and ended federal protections for abortion rights.

The state argues that Dobbs allows states “to regulate medical treatments” and that it does not discriminate against transgender people because “not all transgender individuals use puberty blockers, hormones, or surgery.”

“This Court should acknowledge divergent views and hold that the responsibility to choose between them rests with the people acting through their elected representatives,” read the state’s filing.

The Tennessee Legislature is now considering a bill that could make it a felony to help a minor access gender-affirming care out-of-state without parental consent.

MORE: Kansas governor vetoes gender-affirming trans youth care ban

Transgender care for people under 18 has been a source of contention for state politicians in recent years, impacting a group estimated to make up less than 1.5% of the population ages 13-17, according to an estimate from researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles .

Often due to discrimination, stigma, and gender-related stress, trans youth are at increased risk for poor mental health and suicide, substance use, experiencing violence, and other health risks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Major national medical associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and more than 20 others have argued that gender-affirming care is safe, effective and medically necessary.

“Allowing them to live in their identity is what saves their mental health,” Jennifer said in response to criticism over transgender medical care.

As families continue to seek out avenues for care, Jennifer and Stamm want lawmakers to know that they're just a "normal, regular family."

“I want them to see us as people,” Jennifer said. “We are their neighbors, we are people who teach their kids in school. We are people they work with.”

Stamm adds, "She's just a regular kid, just trying to be a regular kid. … This has just presented so many challenges for her and we feel isolated. Our circle is tight and small ... Hopefully, people will be a little bit more empathetic to what we're going through. And how ridiculous all of this is."

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