Tromsø, often called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is a vibrant city nestled within Norway’s frosty north, surrounded by stunning fjords and snow-capped peaks. With its mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and Arctic adventures, Tromsø is a dream destination for travellers seeking to experience the magic of the far north.
I started my 47-day trip through Norway here at the beginning of February. Still, generally, the best time to visit Tromsø is between late September and early April, when you can witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis and enjoy the dark polar nights. Whether hunting for the northern lights, exploring the wilderness, or immersing yourself in local culture, Tromsø has something for everyone.
One of my favourite things has been wandering around downtown. It has lovely shopping streets (get a Norwegian wool sweater, socks and gloves right away, and you won’t regret it!), colourful wooden buildings, and many lovely cafes and restaurants.
A glimpse into Tromsø’s history
Tromsø has a rich and storied past that stretches back centuries. Originally founded in 1794, the city was initially a tiny trading post but quickly grew due to its strategic location. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tromsø became known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” serving as a launch point for numerous polar expeditions. Famous explorers such as Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen used Tromsø as a base for their historic journeys into the Arctic and Antarctic regions. During World War II, Tromsø played a significant role as a refuge for the Norwegian government after the Nazi invasion. Today, while it has embraced modernity, Tromsø retains a solid connection to its Arctic heritage, blending its adventurous past with a thriving cultural scene and deep appreciation for nature.
Here’s what you shouldn’t miss when visiting Tromsø.
Chase the northern lights
Tromsø is one of the best places on Earth to witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis. The city lies within the auroral oval, an area known for frequent and intense northern lights activity. The dark polar nights provide perfect conditions for aurora hunting between late September and early April. While you can sometimes catch a glimpse of the lights from the city itself, your best bet is to join a guided northern lights chase.
Local guides have the expertise to drive you to the best viewing spots based on the weather and aurora forecast. For my aurora night, I booked a tour with the Ami Hotel, the cheap and cosy hotel I selected for my stay in town.
Explore the Arctic Cathedral
A true architectural gem, the Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen) is a modern masterpiece, standing tall against the dramatic backdrop of Tromsø’s mountains. Built in 1965, its unique triangular design and stunning stained-glass windows make it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
Attending a Midnight Sun or Northern Lights concert here is a spiritual experience, and the music resonates with the beauty of the Arctic. So don’t forget to ask for the concert program upon your arrival!
Visit the Polar Museum
For history buffs and Arctic explorers at heart, the Polar Museum offers a fascinating look into Tromsø’s role in Arctic exploration. The museum chronicles the city’s past as a launching point for polar expeditions and showcases exhibits about famous explorers like Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen. You’ll also learn about Norway’s history of sealing and whaling in the Arctic regions.
Take a fjord cruise
Surrounded by jaw-dropping fjords, a cruise through Tromsø’s waters is a must. Cruises range from daytime excursions with opportunities for wildlife spotting (think reindeer, whales, and sea eagles) to evening tours under the northern lights. I opted for the first option and had an incredible—and freezing—time onboard.
The crisp Arctic air, pristine waters, and towering mountains make these cruises an unforgettable experience.
Ride the Fjellheisen cable car
For panoramic views of Tromsø, head to the Fjellheisen cable car, which takes you 421 meters above sea level to Mount Storsteinen. From the viewing platform, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the city, surrounding fjords, and distant mountains. This is a fantastic spot for breathtaking snowy vistas.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up instead of taking the cable car or try snowshoeing, but it was the beginning of my trip, and I stayed on the lazy side of my mood.
Experience the Sami culture
If it’s your first time in the far North and you want to truly connect with the Arctic’s Indigenous heritage, join a Sami reindeer sledging experience. The Sami are the Indigenous people of northern Scandinavia, and their rich culture is closely tied to the Arctic environment. Many tours offer reindeer sledging and opportunities to learn about Sami traditions, listen to traditional junk singing, and even enjoy a meal in a lavvu (a traditional Sami tent).
I did it from Finland to Sweden several times but enjoyed the experience.
Dog sledge adventures
Embark on one of the most exhilarating adventures Tromsø has to offer: sledging. Feel the rush as you race across snow-covered fields, pulled by a team of eager huskies. Whether you ride as a passenger or try your hand at mushing, this experience will leave you breathless. And to top it off, these tours typically include hot drinks and snacks to warm up after your Arctic adventure.
After my thrilling Finnish husky safari, I obviously mushed and had a great time!!!
Whale watching
From November to January, Tromsø is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Orcas and humpback whales migrate to the fjords around the city to feast on herring, providing travellers with extraordinary opportunities to see these magnificent creatures up close. Whale-watching tours are available during this period, offering both educational insights and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters.
Skiing
Cross-country skiing is indeed Norway’s national pastime. It’s trendy in Tromsø, and there are some easy trails for you, even as a beginner. You can rent cross-country skis at Tromsø Outdoor right downtown, but if you’ve never been on cross-country skis before, you might prefer to go with a guide instead. I had planned it but went for alpine skiing instead…
Tromsø Alpinpark is a short bus ride from the city centre and offers equipment rentals. I loved it and started skiing every day during my trip through Norway!
Tromsø sauna and swimming pool centre
After several hours in the cold, you might dream of a sauna or a hot bath. These are the two options I tested:
The sauna is in a wooden structure floating on the harbour with a beautiful view of the Arctic Cathedral. You can book a time slot at Pust here.
Tromsøbadet is a big indoor swimming pool complex in Tromsø. It has several swimming pools, jacuzzis, a sauna and steam room, and a heated outdoor pool area with beautiful views.
Taste the Local Cuisine
Indulge in the unique Arctic flavours that Tromsø has to offer. From delicious seafood like Arctic char, king crab, and cod to traditional Sami dishes featuring reindeer, the local cuisine is a treat for the taste buds.
For a truly local experience, don’t miss a meal at Emma’s Dream Kitchen, one of Tromsø’s most beloved restaurants. The restaurant focuses on using local and seasonal ingredients.
I also loved my crab sandwich in the tiniest bar ever!
Packing for Tromsø
My Arctic weather packing guide is here. I would generally focus on practical outdoor clothing, as people dress very casually in Norway, even at night.
Tromsø is a destination that perfectly combines outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Whether you’re marvelling at the northern lights, learning about Arctic history, or exploring the stunning fjords, Tromsø will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. Its unspoiled nature, rich traditions, and welcoming people make this Arctic city a truly magical place to visit year-round.
As you explore Tromsø, remember to respect the local culture and nature and leave only footprints behind, ensuring this unique destination remains pristine for future generations.
