Welcome to Tromsø – one of the northernmost cities in the world. Although it lies 350 km above the Arctic Circle, the Gulf Stream keeps the temperatures surprisingly mild. This makes Tromsø one of the best places on Earth to experience the Northern Lights, whale watching, and the magical midnight sun.
I fell in love with Tromsø so much that I decided to live here for a while and work as a tour guide. Thanks to that, I can share with you a few behind-the-scenes insights and local tips you won’t find in other guides.
Would you like to know the best time to visit, where to watch the Northern Lights, how to prepare for Arctic conditions, and what to watch out for when renting a car?
I’ve also prepared a tried-and-tested itinerary to help you experience the very best of Tromsø. If you’re planning a trip north, this guide will save you plenty of time, money, and stress — let’s dive in!
Short on time? Here’s the quick summary:
- Cheapest car rentals: Discover Cars or rent from locals via Getaround (get $20 off)
- Top activities: Dog sledding, visiting a reindeer farm, whale watching (November–January)
- Great places to stay: Outside the city: Cabin Aurora Borealis. In Tromsø with breakfast: Scandic Ishavshotel
Tromsø – Map of the Most Beautiful Places
We’ve prepared a detailed map of Tromsø and its surroundings, where you’ll find all the most beautiful spots, recommended accommodations, restaurants, viewpoints, and parking areas:
Why Visit Tromsø – What Makes It So Special?
You might be wondering — why on earth would anyone travel to darkness and cold? Here’s why:
- Northern Lights – Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to witness the magical aurora borealis.
- Whales – From November to January, you can spot orcas and humpback whales in the nearby fjords.
- Dog sledding – An authentic Arctic adventure pulled by enthusiastic huskies.
- Reindeer and Sámi culture – Feed these gentle, velvet-nosed creatures and learn about the life of the Indigenous Sámi people.
- Arctic nature – Majestic fjords, mountains, snow-covered plains, and the endless silence of the wilderness.
- Midnight sun – In summer, the sun never sets — expect endless days full of light and energy.
When to Visit Tromsø
Each season in Tromsø offers a completely different experience — winter brings the Northern Lights and whales, summer offers endless days under the midnight sun, and autumn rewards you with a calmer atmosphere and lower prices. So when is the best time to visit? Let’s break it down month by month:
- September – October: A perfect time for both Northern Lights and light hiking. There’s usually no snow yet, and temperatures stay mild (often above freezing). You’ll have enough daylight for trips and dark nights for aurora watching — the ideal balance.
- November: The best month to combine whale watching and aurora hunting. There’s less daylight, the first snow arrives, and prices (especially for accommodation and car rentals) are at their lowest.
- December – January: The period of polar night — days are short and cold. You can still join whale safaris and enjoy short excursions during the twilight hours. Dog sledding and reindeer farm visits are popular. However, I personally find this the least recommended period: it’s crowded around Christmas and prices go up.
- February – March: The busiest months of the year. Book activities well in advance, especially dog sledding. Winter is in full swing, and March is statistically one of the two best months to see the Northern Lights (around the equinox, solar activity peaks).
- April: A transitional month — still cold, snow starts melting, and the nights are getting shorter. You’ll have fewer chances to see the aurora, but the scenery remains beautiful.
- May – August: From late May, you can experience the midnight sun — perfect for hikes and road trips. Tromsø makes a great starting point for a summer road trip to the Lofoten Islands!
Where to Stay in Tromsø
If you’re coming mainly to see the Northern Lights, it’s best to avoid staying right in the city center — the light pollution makes aurora viewing much harder (unless the display is extremely strong).
If you have a car, the best option is to stay outside the city, in areas like:
Sommarøy – A small island with beautiful white-sand beaches and dark skies, far away from the city lights.
- Ecolodge Båthuset 69Nord
- Sommarøy Arctic Hotel Tromsø
- Cabin Aurora Borealis
- Beautiful cabin with a view – ideal for groups
Kvaløya – One of Northern Norway’s most scenic islands, offering breathtaking fjords, rugged mountain trails, and traditional fishing villages like Ersfjordbotn and Kaldfjord.
The Surroundings of Tromsø
In these areas, you’ll have dark skies and a much better chance of seeing the Northern Lights right from your doorstep.
If you’re only staying for a few days and prefer to be based in the city center, here are my tips below.
- Scandic Ishavshotel – Right by the harbor in the city center, with an excellent breakfast included.
- Radisson Blu Hotel – Right by the harbor in the city center, with an excellent breakfast included.
- Tromso Activities Hostel – The most budget-friendly option in the center, with shared rooms and a cozy backpacker vibe.
- Skaret by Vander – Modern apartments in the city center, ideal if you prefer a bit more privacy and independence.
If you’re planning to spend a few days on the beautiful island of Senja, go for it — the hiking there is absolutely fantastic! Just keep in mind that the activities in Tromsø will be quite far away, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
Senja – A heavenly island for hikers and view lovers
Tromsø and Transportation
Although Tromsø lies far above the Arctic Circle, getting here — and getting around once you arrive — is surprisingly easy. While you can move around the city by bus, the best option by far is to rent a car, especially if you want to explore the surrounding nature and chase the Northern Lights.
Flights to Tromsø – When and Where to Find the Best Deals
Let’s start with a quick overview:
- Tromsø Airport (TOS) – an international airport located just 5 km from the city center
- Main airlines: Norwegian, Widerøe, SAS, EasyJet, Wizz Air, Lufthansa
- Direct flights from Oslo take about 1 hour and 50 minutes
For searching flights, I recommend using Kayak. It helps you compare prices quickly and find the best options. Once you find a good deal, it’s usually cheapest to book directly through the airline’s website.
Car Rental in Tromsø
If you have an adventurous spirit, renting a car is a must — it’s often cheaper than joining multiple guided tours from the city. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, visiting fjords, or heading to Sommarøy, a car gives you freedom to explore places that would otherwise be hard to reach. (And taxis here are extremely expensive.)
Where to find the best prices:
- Discover Cars – the best comparison site for car rentals. You’ll find the lowest prices, and it’s worth booking early as rates tend to increase closer to the date.
- Getaround – rent a car directly from locals, often cheaper than traditional rental companies. You simply arrange the pickup point, take a few photos of the car, and drive away. Return it with a full tank. A common pickup spot is the Circle K gas station at the airport.
Be aware that some listings include a mileage limit.
With this invite link, you’ll get a $20 discount on your first rental.
Petrol Cars vs. Electric Cars and Road Tolls
- Electric cars: Norway has an impressive number of electric vehicles, but for winter travel and this kind of road trip, I strongly recommend renting a regular petrol or diesel car. You won’t have to worry about charging, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can reach remote places even in bad weather.
- Petrol cars: Fuel prices are around 20–23 NOK per liter, and gas stations are readily available even outside the city.
- Note that petrol cars must pay city tolls. Tromsø has automatic toll gates, so each time you enter the city you’ll be charged around 15 NOK. The system reads your car automatically (you’ll notice a small toll sensor near the windshield), and the fee will later appear on your rental or Getaround invoice. Similar automatic tolls apply to tunnels and ferries, and these apply to all types of vehicles.
Parking in Tromsø – What to Watch Out For
Parking in Tromsø is not easy — and definitely not cheap. The city uses a zoned parking system, and almost all parking areas are paid. You’ll even find paid parking lots at the start of many popular hiking trails around Tromsø.
Most parking is paid via the EasyPark app, which you can download in advance. Just enter your license plate number, add your card, and you can start or stop parking with one tap.
Important! Start your parking payment immediately after you arrive. If you forget and activate it even a few minutes late, you risk a fine of 660 NOK — which happened to me personally when I turned it on 10 minutes late.
Public Transport in Tromsø
Tromsø has an excellent bus network, with routes covering almost every part of the city. Buses run every 10–15 minutes, even in the evenings, making them a convenient option if you’re staying in the city center.
- I recommend downloading the Svipper (iOS / Android) to buy tickets online.
- Regular fare: 25 NOK (rush hour: 44 NOK)
- Discount passes: Daily, weekly, or monthly tickets are available if you plan to travel more frequently.
- Tickets are not checked on entry, but inspectors do spot checks from time to time.
Getting from the Airport to the City Center
There’s a bus stop right next to the airport, and the ride to the city center is quick and easy. Google Maps works perfectly here — it shows the correct lines and departure times, so there’s no need to overthink it.
Prices and Payments in Tromsø
Norway is expensive — and Tromsø, being a popular tourist destination, is no exception. In general, prices are roughly double what you’d pay in the Czech Republic, though it depends on the category.
- Fuel is about 40% more expensive than in Central Europe.
- Restaurant meals cost at least 2.5× more than in the Czech Republic.
- For a detailed comparison of specific prices, check out Numbeo — it gives a good overview of everyday expenses.
Cash and Card Payments
You won’t need cash in Norway. Everything can be paid by card — from restaurants and supermarkets to toilets and parking machines. The local currency is the Norwegian krone (NOK).
How to Save on Card Payments
The biggest hidden costs usually come from your bank’s exchange rate when paying by card abroad. To avoid that, we recommend using Revolut, which always gives you the real mid-market rate.
We’ve been using it exclusively for several years now — and it’s saved us quite a bit on every trip.
What to See and Do in Tromsø – Top Sights and Experiences
1) Fjellheisen – Cable Car to Mount Storsteinen
The best panoramic view of Tromsø is from the top of Mount Storsteinen, which you can reach in just five minutes by the Fjellheisen cable car. From the upper station, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city, surrounding fjords, and Arctic mountains — stunning both by day and at night.
There’s also a restaurant at the top where you can grab a coffee or snack while enjoying the scenery. Don’t miss the viewing platform, and if you have the energy, take a short hike a bit higher above the cable car station for an even better perspective.
- Tickets can be purchased on-site or online (the price has recently increased to over 595 NOK)
- If you’d rather skip the cable car fee, you can hike up on foot — it takes about 40–60 minutes. In snowy conditions, microspikes are highly recommended.
- Parking is available in a paid lot just below the cable car station.
2) Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen)
A modern symbol of Tromsø, the Arctic Cathedral’s striking shape resembles either an iceberg or a traditional Sámi tent. It’s one of those landmarks you simply can’t miss — visible from almost anywhere in the city.
Built in 1965, the cathedral dominates Tromsø’s skyline with its iconic triangular design and gleaming white façade. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s definitely worth a short stop and a few photos.
- Entrance fee: 80 NOK
- Parking: Free
3) Floating Sauna – Sauna Pust
If you’re looking for a unique Arctic experience, the floating sauna Pust combines classic Nordic sauna culture with the chance to dip straight into the fjord afterward. And don’t worry — thanks to the Gulf Stream, the water is warmer than you’d expect (around 5°C / 41°F).
The sauna is located right in Tromsø’s harbor, offering spectacular views of the fjords, city skyline, Arctic Cathedral, and surrounding mountains while you relax in the heat.
- Book in advance: 360 NOK/hour (reservation link)
- Bring your swimsuit and your own towel — they sometimes run out of rentals!
4) The Polar Museum (Polarmuseet)
This fascinating museum immerses you in the harsh and adventurous life of Arctic explorers, seal hunters, and polar expeditions. It’s located in a historic 1837 warehouse right by Tromsø’s harbor and features engaging exhibits about polar exploration, hunting, and survival in the Arctic.
Most descriptions are in Norwegian, but you’ll receive an English booklet at the entrance that corresponds to numbered exhibits — it’s well worth reading. If the weather isn’t great, this museum makes for a perfect indoor stop to warm up and learn more about Tromsø’s polar history.
- Entrance fee: 120 NOK
- Opening hours: Daily, 11:00 do 17:00
- Website: Polarmuseet
5) Polaria – Arctic Aquarium and Education Center
Polaria isn’t your typical aquarium — it’s an interactive center dedicated to Arctic nature and marine life. The building’s modern design, shaped like a pile of drifting ice floes, is a landmark in itself.
The main highlight is the harbor seal feeding show, but you’ll also find hands-on exhibits and panoramic films about Svalbard and Northern Norway. It’s a great stop for families or anyone curious about life in the far north.
- Entrance fee: from 295 NOK (varies by program) – book online here
- Opening hours: Daily, 10:00–16:00
- Web: Polaria
6) Tromsø Harbor and Historic City Center
Tromsø’s historic center is small but lively, filled with colorful wooden houses, cozy cafés, restaurants, and bars overlooking the fjord. Don’t miss the old church and the modern public library, both architectural highlights in the cityscape.
The main street, Storgata, is where you’ll find most of the boutiques, souvenir shops, and cafés — perfect for an afternoon stroll after exploring the harbor.
7) Magic Ice Bar – An Icy Experience Where Everything’s Made of Ice
If you want to enjoy a unique Arctic night out in Tromsø, the Magic Ice Bar is the perfect spot. Everything here — from the walls and sculptures to the glasses themselves — is made entirely of ice.
Your entry ticket includes one drink, and they also offer non-alcoholic options, so everyone can join in the fun. The combination of colorful lighting and frozen art creates a truly magical atmosphere.
- Entrance fee: 300 NOK
- Website: Magic Ice
Activities
Whatever you plan to do in Tromsø, you’ll find it all on GetYourGuide
. Many local operators don’t even have their own websites — they list their tours exclusively there, making it the main activity hub for Tromsø.
From Northern Lights chases and dog sledding to whale safaris and snowshoeing, no other place in the world has a higher concentration of Arctic experiences in one spot than right here.
8) Chasing the Northern Lights
This is the reason most people come to Tromsø! Without exaggeration, Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The city lies directly under the auroral oval, which means you can witness the aurora in some form almost every clear night.
There are just two conditions: it has to be dark and clear.
Weather, however, can be your biggest enemy — that’s why it helps to have a car and stay at least a week. With a bit of luck, you might even watch the aurora right from your doorstep. But if clouds roll in while the aurora forecast looks good, simply check the cloud radar and drive toward clearer skies.
Guided Aurora Tours
If you’re staying in the city center without a car, a guided aurora tour can be totally worth it. These guides are pros — they’ll pick you up in a minibus and drive all the way to the Finnish border if needed just to find a clear patch of sky.
Here are a few recommended and trusted operators:
9) Whale Safari – A Truly Unique Winter Experience
From November to January, huge schools of herring gather in the fjords north of Tromsø — and where there’s herring, there are orcas and humpback whales. Watching these giants in their natural Arctic environment is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Norway.
Whale safaris depart directly from Tromsø harbor and usually last a full day. The trip includes a scenic cruise through the fjords, light refreshments and a short lecture onboard, followed by whale watching in the areas of Skjervøy and Kaldfjord.
From personal experience, I can highly recommend:
Other highly rated operators include:
10) Reindeer Feeding, Sleigh Rides & Sámi Culture
For an authentic Arctic experience, visiting a Sámi reindeer farm near Tromsø is an absolute must. The Sámi people, the Indigenous inhabitants of northern Scandinavia, have lived alongside reindeer for centuries — and reindeer herding remains a central part of their culture and daily life.
At the farm, local Sámi guides will introduce you to their traditions and explain what life is like in the harsh Arctic climate. The highlight for most visitors is feeding the reindeer — you’ll get a bucket of lichen and can feed them right from your hand.
You can also try a reindeer sleigh ride, the traditional Sámi way of winter travel. The visit usually ends inside a warm lavvu (a traditional Sámi tent), where you can enjoy a bowl of bidos, a hearty reindeer stew, while listening to the enchanting joik, the traditional Sámi style of singing.
Recommended reindeer farms:
11) Dog Sledding in Tromso – The Ultimate Husky Adventure
A dog-sledding ride is one of the most unforgettable winter experiences you can have in Tromsø. Huskies are incredibly energetic and absolutely love running through the snow — it’s what they were born to do.
After arriving at the husky farm, your guides will explain how the sleds work, introduce you to the dogs, and get you ready for the ride. If you choose the active version, you’ll even have the chance to drive your own sled!
When you return, you can warm up with a hot drink in a cozy cabin and spend time cuddling the friendly huskies — they’re always happy to meet new people.
12) Snowmobile Safari – Arctic Adrenaline in the Wild
Riding a snowmobile through the Arctic wilderness is pure adrenaline. After a short safety briefing, you’ll set off across snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and mountain plateaus, enjoying both stunning views and a good dose of excitement.
You can drive the snowmobile yourself or take turns with a passenger — just remember that you’ll need a valid car driver’s license to operate one.
13) Rybářské výpravy v Arktidě
Pokud máte rádi rybaření, Tromsø je jedno z nejlepších míst na světě pro mořský rybolov. Některé lodě nabízejí možnost uvařit si úlovek přímo na palubě.
14) And What About Floating?
If you’re looking for something a little different, try a floating experience — a peaceful boat cruise through the surrounding fjords that lets you take in the beauty of Arctic landscapes from the water. These relaxing trips are perfect if you want to see the region from another perspective, often combined with local stories, wildlife spotting, and a warm drink on board.
Trips Around Tromsø
15) Sommarøy
Distance from Tromsø: 60 km (about 1 hour by car)
Sommarøy looks like a slice of the Caribbean in Norway — except instead of palm trees, you’ll find white sand beaches and turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic mountains.
In summer, it’s a great place for coastal walks, kayaking, and watching the midnight sun. In winter, you’ll find peace, quiet, and stunning snow-covered scenery.
If you want to escape the city’s light pollution, Sommarøy is also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights.
Tip: Hike up to Hillesøytoppen for a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire archipelago.
16) Ersfjordbotn
📍 Distance from Tromsø: 20 km (about 25 minutes by car)
Ersfjordbotn is one of the most beautiful fjords near Tromsø and a favorite among photographers. Surrounded by steep mountains rising straight from the water, it’s spectacular in any weather.
Don’t miss the cozy Bryggejentene Café, where you can warm up with a coffee or enjoy lunch with a view.
In winter, it’s a perfect spot for watching the Northern Lights, thanks to the absence of light pollution. If you’re looking for calm, natural beauty close to the city, Ersfjordbotn is hard to beat.
17) The Lyngen Alps
Distance from Tromsø: 80–120 km (depending on route), about 2 hours by car
If you’re looking for rugged Arctic scenery with towering peaks, glaciers, and deep fjords, the Lyngen Alps are the perfect destination. This mountain range offers amazing hiking opportunities, from easy walks to demanding alpine climbs. The area is also a favorite among ski mountaineers, who come here for some of the best freeride terrain in Norway.
What’s worth seeing:
- Steindalsbreen – an easily accessible glacier
- Blåisvatnet – a lake famous for its unbelievably bright blue color (best visited in summer)
- Lyngstuva Lighthouse – located at the northern tip of Lyngen, offering breathtaking sea views
If you’re planning a winter trip, don’t forget to bring crampons — most trails can be icy.
Where to Eat and What to Try in Tromsø
Tromsø offers a vibrant selection of restaurants and cafés, where you can enjoy both traditional Norwegian cuisine and international dishes. Below are some of the best places in town — plus a few local specialties you shouldn’t miss.
Best Restaurants and Cafés in Tromsø
- Bardus Bistro – A cozy spot focusing on European and Scandinavian cuisine, known for fresh ingredients and a warm atmosphere.
- Art Café Bistro – Perfect for lovers of international and European dishes, especially soups and desserts.
- Fiskekompaniet – A top choice for seafood lovers, offering fresh fish and local ocean specialties.
- Blårock Café – Famous for its classic burgers and rock-inspired vibe; a favorite hangout among younger travelers.
- Risø Food & Coffee Shop – Ideal for breakfast or brunch, with excellent coffee and a relaxed, modern setting.
Traditional Norwegian Dishes You Must Try
- Røkt laks (Smoked salmon) – Norway’s world-famous delicacy, often served with scrambled eggs and dill, or on toast with mustard sauce.
- Fårikål – Norway’s national dish: slow-cooked lamb with cabbage and whole black pepper, served with boiled potatoes.
- Gravlaks – Cured salmon marinated in salt, sugar, and dill, typically served with mustard or cream sauce on bread.
- Kjøttkaker – Norwegian meatballs, similar to patties, served with mashed potatoes, brown gravy, and lingonberries.
- Lutefisk – A traditional dish made from dried fish soaked in lye, giving it a jelly-like texture; served with potatoes, peas, and bacon.
- Brunost – The famous brown cheese with a caramel-like flavor, often eaten for breakfast or as a snack on bread or waffles — and a popular souvenir to take home.
Jak se zabalit na cestu za polární kruh?
Although Tromsø lies well above the Arctic Circle, its weather is surprisingly mild thanks to the Gulf Stream. Still, it’s highly unpredictable — in winter you can expect frost, snow, and wind, while in summer and autumn it might be warm one moment and rainy or chilly the next.
Having the right clothing and gear will save you a lot of trouble.
Winter Clothing
Winter in Tromsø isn’t extreme (usually around –5 to –10 °C / 23–14 °F), but the humidity and wind — especially at sea — can make it feel colder.
The key is layering:
- Base layer: Thermal underwear (merino wool is best)
- Insulating layer: Fleece or down jacket
- Outer layer: Windproof and waterproof jacket
- Pants: Warm waterproof or softshell with lining
- Footwear: Insulated, waterproof winter boots
- Accessories: Hat, gloves (mittens are best), warm socks, scarf or neck warmer
If you’re coming for Northern Lights hunting, bring extra-warm clothing (ski gear works perfectly) — you’ll be standing outside for long periods.
You’ll also find these essentials handy:
- Headlamp – The winter nights are long; it’s a must for evening walks.
- Power bank – Batteries drain quickly in the cold.
- Microspikes – Great for icy trails and city walks.
- Camera or smartphone with tripod – A tripod is essential for Northern Lights photography.
- Thermos – Hot tea or coffee can be a lifesaver in the cold.
Summer Clothing
Summer in Tromsø is beautiful — but don’t expect tropical weather. Conditions can change within minutes: sunshine, then rain and wind.
Bring:
- Lightweight softshell or waterproof jacket
- Technical long-sleeve shirt
- Comfortable quick-dry hiking pants
- Waterproof hiking shoes – rain is common
- Light hat and gloves – useful for hikes in the mountains
- Sunglasses and sunscreen – the midnight sun can be deceivingly strong
Even in summer, layering is key. Temperatures can range from 20 °C (68 °F) to as low as 5 °C (41 °F).
Practical Travel Tips for Norway
- Power outlets: No adapter needed — Norway uses the same Type C and F sockets as Central Europe.
- Payments: Norway is almost cashless. You can pay by card or phone everywhere, including small shops, parking meters, and even public toilets.
- ID: No passport needed if you’re from the EU/Schengen — a national ID card is enough (unless you fly via the UK).
- SIM cards & data: EU roaming applies, so you can use your mobile data as at home. Coverage is great in towns, but expect weak or no signal in remote mountains.
7-Day Tromsø Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival, pick up rental car, grocery shopping, check-in
Day 2: Explore Tromsø – cable car to Fjellheisen, hike, Magic Ice Bar, Polar Museum
Day 3: Day trip to Sommarøy – coffee stop and short hikes to viewpoints
Day 4: Excursion to Ersfjordbotn, Kvaløya Island, and the fishing village of Tromvik
Day 5: Visit a reindeer farm; stop by the Arctic Cathedral and city center on the way back
Day 6: Dog-sledding adventure, afternoon sauna, souvenir shopping downtown
Day 7: Departure (most flights leave early in the morning)
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