Things To Do
in Tromsø
Tromsø is a vibrant city located in northern Norway, known for its stunning natural beauty and unique Arctic experiences. It is a popular destination for those seeking to witness the Northern Lights due to its location within the aurora oval. The city is also home to the Arctic Cathedral, a striking landmark with its modern architecture and iconic design.
With a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and a lively culinary scene, Tromsø offers an unforgettable experience for visitors year-round.
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Hvordan har du det?" - How are you?
- "Ha en fin dag" - Have a nice day
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $60
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $4 - $6
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Polar Museum to learn about the region's exploration history. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading into the arctic wilderness.
Join a guided snowshoeing tour through the stunning landscapes surrounding Tromsø. Stop for lunch outdoors and soak in the breathtaking panoramas.
Conclude your day with a traditional Norwegian dinner at a cozy restaurant. If the skies are clear, keep an eye out for the Northern Lights!
Take the Fjellheisen cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen for spectacular views of Tromsø and its surroundings. Enjoy a warm drink at the café while taking in the scenery.
Explore the Arctic Cathedral, a striking piece of architecture, before heading to the Tromsø City Centre. Visit local shops and galleries to discover regional arts and crafts.
Dine at a restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood. Try some traditional dishes as you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Tromsø's nightlife.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including fjords, mountains, and the Northern Lights.
- Unique cultural experiences, such as the indigenous Sámi culture.
- Offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and whale watching.
- Midnight sun in summer provides extended daylight for activities.
- Rich wildlife and biodiversity, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
- High cost of living, including accommodation and food.
- Long, cold winters with limited daylight can be challenging for some.
- Limited job opportunities, especially outside of tourism and education.
- Isolated location can lead to feelings of loneliness or disconnect from larger cities.
- Transportation can be complicated, with fewer direct flights and long travel times.
Best Activities in Tromsø
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning Norwegian nature by hiking through the mountains and trails around Tromsø. There are numerous hiking routes suitable for all levels of experience.
Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Take a guided tour or venture out on your own to catch this natural wonder.
Embark on a fjord cruise from Tromsø to admire the breathtaking coastal landscapes, spot wildlife, and experience the beauty of the Arctic region.
Enjoy an exhilarating dog sledding adventure across the snowy terrain, led by a team of huskies, and immerse yourself in the Arctic wilderness.
Experience the thrill of skiing or snowshoeing in the picturesque surroundings of Tromsø, with various options for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tromsø with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tromsø
Visit one of these nice places.
Take the cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords.
Visit this iconic landmark for its striking architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Capture beautiful views of the city and the Arctic Cathedral from this vantage point.
Food in Tromsø
Tromsø Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
One of Tromsø's iconic dishes, boknafisk is unsalted, dried cod that is traditionally hung and wind-dried. It has a unique flavor and is often served with potatoes and mustard sauce.
Must-Try!
A must-try delicacy, reindeer meat is widely embraced in local cuisine. It's often prepared as a tender roast or in hearty stews, showcasing the rich and distinctive flavors of the Arctic.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tromsø better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Mack's Brewery for a taste of local beer and explore its accompanying beer garden, providing an array of culinary delights and a vibrant atmosphere.
Experience a variety of locally sourced produce, handcrafted goods, and traditional Norwegian snacks at Tromsø's Farmers Market. It's a great spot to sample authentic street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tromsø, it is important to give people their personal space, so avoid standing too close or invading someone's personal bubble.
Greet people with a handshake and use 'please' and 'thank you' in conversation to show respect for others.
Norwegians value punctuality, so be sure to arrive on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tromsø with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tromsø
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tromsø, tipping is not compulsory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small amount of tip if the service has been exceptional.
In Tromsø, Norway, electronic payment methods such as credit/debit cards and mobile payment apps are widely accepted. Cash may also be used, but it is becoming less common. Contactless payment is increasingly popular, and most establishments have the infrastructure to support it.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tromsø.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tromsø to see the Northern Lights and participate in winter activities such as dog sledding and snowmobiling. Expect cold temperatures and limited daylight hours.
Ideal for experiencing the Midnight Sun, hiking, and wildlife watching. Expect pleasant weather and almost 24 hours of daylight.
Great for witnessing the transition from winter to spring, snow melting, and longer daylight hours. Ideal for outdoor activities and nature photography.
Perfect for viewing the fall foliage, Northern Lights, and enjoying milder temperatures. It's a great time for cultural events and local festivals.
Tromsø at Night
Hiking in Tromsø
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in the Tromsø area, offering stunning views and a challenging hike.
A popular hiking area that can be accessed via a cable car, providing panoramic views of Tromsø.
A large island with numerous trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous hikes, showcasing beautiful nature.
A unique coastal area featuring a mix of hiking trails along cliffs and beaches.
A scenic area with hiking opportunities that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords and mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tromsø through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tromsø by plane.
The main airport serving Tromsø, Norway, it operates both domestic and international flights, primarily to destinations within Norway and Europe.
Located in Bodø, approximately 1 hour flight from Tromsø, it serves as a significant hub for domestic flights and some international connections.
Situated about 1.5 hours from Tromsø, this airport serves the Harstad and Narvik regions and offers a mix of domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 2 hours by air from Tromsø, it primarily serves the Alta region with domestic flights and limited international connections.
Located in Finland, around 2 hours from Tromsø by flight, this airport offers connections primarily to other Finnish cities and some international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group comprising the native population of Tromsø.
Indigenous people of the Arctic region, including parts of Tromsø, with a distinct cultural heritage.
Includes individuals from countries such as Poland and Lithuania, contributing to the labor market.
Includes refugees and immigrants from countries such as Syria and Iraq.
A diverse group studying at the University of Tromsø, representing various countries.
The Soul of Tromsø
Discover the essence of Tromsø through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Tromsø, with a strong local league and community involvement.
Widely practiced in Tromsø, benefiting from the region's extensive winter trails and favorable conditions.
A well-followed sport in Tromsø, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
A favorite among locals, combining the thrill of skiing with beautiful Arctic landscapes.
Popular during the summer months, with various trails and scenic paths around the city and surrounding areas.
Engages many residents, with several running events and a strong community of runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tromsø.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tromsø's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many eateries offering plant-based alternatives and creative meat-free dishes. Restaurants like Emma's Drømmekjøkken specialize in delectable vegan and vegetarian fare.
Those with gluten sensitivities will find various gluten-free options in Tromsø's restaurants, particularly in establishments emphasizing locally sourced, fresh ingredients and Nordic cuisine.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tromsø with these cultural adventures.
