What to see, what to do
à Tromsø

Travel guide Tromsø

Tromsø, located beyond the Arctic Circle in Norway, is a vibrant city known for its spectacular scenery, Sami culture and opportunities to see the Northern Lights. This "Gateway to the Arctic" offers a fascinating combination of urban life and wilderness.

Tromsø has a long history as a centre for whale hunting and as a departure point for Arctic expeditions. Today, it is an important centre for polar research and Sami culture.

Tromsø airport is well connected to a number of Norwegian and international cities. The city is also accessible by road and via the famous Hurtigruten, Norway's coastal ferries.

Accommodation

Tromsø offers a range of accommodation options, from comfortable city-centre hotels to traditional huts and mountain lodges.

Gastronomy

Traditional Norwegian cuisine, fresh seafood, reindeer dishes, local cakes and coffee.

What is there to see? What to do?

The Arctic Cathedral, the Polar Museum, the Fjellheisen cable car, the Sami Culture Centre and whale-watching cruises.

City centre, Tromsøya island, Storgata district, seafront and harbour.

Hiking in the surrounding mountains, kayaking in the fjords, skiing, hunting for the Northern Lights and sea fishing.

Educational visits to museums, child-friendly outdoor activities, parks and playgrounds, boat trips.

Tromsø International Film Festival, Nordlysfestivalen music festival, Sami Week, Midnight Sun Marathon.

Activities

Shopping

Sami crafts, winter clothing, local fish products, Norwegian art and design galleries.

Nightlife

Local bars and pubs, concerts and festivals, cultural evenings in art galleries and museums.

Did you know?

Tromsø is nicknamed the 'Paris of the North' because of its cultural activity.
The town has the highest concentration of wooden houses in Norway.
Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights.
It is home to the world's most northerly university.
In summer, Tromsø experiences the midnight sun, when the sun does not set for several weeks.

Tips and tricks
Dress in layers for the Arctic climate, even in summer.
Use local public transport or hire a car to explore the surrounding area.
Stay prepared for rapid weather changes.

Visit in summer for the midnight sun or in winter for the northern lights, explore the surrounding islands and take part in Sami cultural activities.

Hi! I'm a passionate nature explorer, a lover of Nordic culture and a poet at heart, always on the lookout for the next great adventure. I made my first visit to Norway 20 years ago and was immediately fascinated by its rugged beauty and rich culture. Since then, I've made many visits, each one leaving me with new stories to tell and unforgettable memories. Whether it's the thrill of seeing the Northern Lights for the first time, or the soothing calm of hiking through the fjords, every experience in Norway has left an indelible mark on my heart.

Lars J.

DiamsTrotter Tromsø