Things To Do
in Tromsø
Tromsø is a vibrant Arctic city set above the Arctic Circle, famed as a gateway to northern adventures and the Northern Lights. It blends university-town energy with rugged natural beauty, snow-clad mountains, and historic wooden houses along a lively harbor. In winter you can chase the aurora, while summer brings the midnight sun and fjord excursions.
With top-notch infrastructure, a strong focus on sustainability, and a welcoming local culture, Tromsø makes Arctic exploration accessible to all travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Arctic Cathedral, a stunning architectural marvel with its striking triangular shape and beautiful stained glass. After soaking in the views, stroll along the waterfront to the Polar Museum, where you can learn about Tromsø's rich history of Arctic hunting. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee at a nearby café as you watch the world go by.
In the afternoon, venture to the Tromsø Museum to explore its fascinating exhibits on Sámi culture and the region's natural history. Take a leisurely walk through the picturesque streets, stopping by local shops and galleries showcasing the work of local artisans. Don’t miss the chance to try some traditional Norwegian fare at a cozy restaurant, like reindeer stew or fresh seafood.
As evening approaches, take a scenic cable car ride up to Mount Storsteinen for breathtaking panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords. Once the sun sets, find a spot to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, either on your own or by joining a guided tour for the best experience. End your day with a warming drink at one of the city's charming bars, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before boarding a boat for a thrilling wildlife safari in the stunning Tromsø fjords. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic orcas and humpback whales as you cruise through the crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic landscapes. The fresh sea air and the breathtaking scenery will invigorate you for the exciting day ahead.
After an exhilarating morning, enjoy a packed lunch on the boat while soaking in the stunning views of towering mountains and serene islands. Continue your wildlife adventure by stopping at some of the remote islands to explore their unique ecosystems and spot seabirds. Don’t forget your camera, as the opportunities for incredible photographs are endless.
Return to Tromsø in the evening, where you can unwind at a local restaurant with a view of the harbor. Treat yourself to a delicious meal featuring local delicacies, perhaps including freshly caught fish or cloudberries. As the day comes to a close, take a peaceful walk along the waterfront, enjoying the reflective glow of the city lights on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧴Milk (1 liter) | $1-2 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket (one-way) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Arctic scenery and wildlife
- Strong safety nets, excellent infrastructure, and high service standards
- Accessible Arctic experiences (aurora, fjords, Sami culture)
- Compact city center makes it easy to explore on foot
- High prices relative to many destinations
- Limited daylight in mid-winter and sometimes chilly, fast-changing weather
- Some activities are highly seasonal (e.g., whale watching, certain tours)
- Distance from southern Norway requires longer travel times
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Snakker du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hvor mye koster det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kan jeg få regningen, takk?" - Can I have the bill, please?
- "Hvor er toalettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hyggelig å møte deg" - Nice to meet you
Places to Visit in Tromsø
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic triangular glass-and-steel church perched above the water, framed by fjord and mountains.
Panoramic city and fjord vistas from the mountaintop, accessible by cable car.
Colorful wooden houses, fishing boats, and sea spray—classic Tromsø harbor scenes.
Long arch across the water with mountains and urban lights, especially striking at sunset.
A tranquil urban lake ideal for reflections, birds, and quiet winter moods.
Nordic flora and alpine species set against seasonal snow or bloom—great for plant-focused shots.
Food in Tromsø
Tromsø Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sun-dried cod classic to the region; often served with potatoes and vegetables in hearty Nordic preparations.
Must-Try!
Tender meat prepared as steaks or stews; a staple of Northern Norwegian menus with a mild game flavor.
Local freshwater fish, commonly grilled or smoked, showcasing clean, delicate flavors.
Winter specialty featuring lobster-like legs; often served warm with dipping sauces in seafood restaurants.
Traditional Norwegian flatbread paired with brown cheese for a simple, iconic taste of the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harborfront market offering fresh catches, prepared bites, and local snacks with a sea breeze and mountain backdrop.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple handshake is common; Norwegians value personal space and modest, direct communication.
Being on time is important for appointments and tours; plan travel with a buffer for weather.
Follow no-trace principles in nature; respect private property and wildlife habitats.
Safety
Tipping in Tromsø
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in Norway but appreciated for exceptional service; rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in dining establishments if you’re pleased with the service.
Credit and debit cards (contactless) are widely accepted; cash is less common but still possible in small markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with the midnight sun in late spring to midsummer; ideal for hiking, boat trips, and outdoor photography; light lasts late into the evening.
Short days but dramatic skies and frequent opportunities for Northern Lights; prepare for cold, snowy conditions and winter activities.
Rising daylight and melting snow open new hiking routes; wildlife becomes more active and streets feel lively again.
Cooling temperatures and autumn colors; a shoulder season great for city strolls, cultural events, and aurora chances when skies clear.
Tromsø at Night
Hiking in Tromsø
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular easy-to-moderate hike with rewarding views over Tromsø; accessible from the Storsteinen area via the surrounding trails.
Gentle loop around an urban lake; great for a relaxed stroll and birdwatching year-round.
Scenic island route along white-sand beaches and rugged coastlines; a short ferry/drive + hike for dramatic coastal photos.
Airports
How to reach Tromsø by plane.
Main regional and international gateway to Northern Norway; about 5-6 miles (8-10 km) from the city center, with regular connections to Oslo and seasonal flights to European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main population group; diverse, with strong local culture and language use.
Indigenous people with a rich cultural presence in the region; Sami experiences are part of the tourism offerings.
University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway contributes a youthful, international presence.
Seasonal influx for aurora viewing, winter sports, and summer adventures.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely practiced in winter; trails around the city and surrounding hills are well maintained.
Active community and university teams; local matches and facilities are accessible to visitors.
Popular winter sport with local clubs and arenas offering games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tromsø.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Tromsø, vegetarians can find vegetable-forward dishes and dairy-based options; many places can accommodate substitutions, and Mathallen offers prepared veggie choices from several vendors.