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Dreaming of snow-covered mountains, cozy Arctic cafés, and shimmering green skies? Then Tromsø, Norway, might just steal your heart.
Located 217 miles north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights—and it’s packed with unforgettable winter activities like dog sledding, reindeer feeding, fjord cruising, and soaking in floating saunas.
During our February trip to Norway, my boyfriend Tim and I explored Tromsø with two of our best friends, Allison and Ryan, as part of our 12-day Norway winter itinerary. After an incredible night at Lyngen North Glass Igloos, we flew south to Tromsø for three action-packed days of Arctic adventure.
This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Tromsø in winter—how to get there, where to stay, and what to do over three unforgettable days.
Whether you’re planning a long weekend in Tromsø or adding it to a longer Norway route, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time in Norway’s Arctic capital!
Why Visit Tromsø in Winter
Tromsø is the largest city in Northern Norway and the third largest community north of the Arctic Circle, after Murmansk and Norilsk in Russia.
Nicknamed the “Paris of the North” in the 19th century for its lively restaurants and vibrant culture, Tromsø has long been a hub for Arctic explorers and adventurers.
Because of its location within the aurora oval, Tromsø offers some of the best chances in the world to see the Northern Lights, especially between September and early April.
In winter, the city experiences polar nights, when the sun doesn’t rise for weeks—creating magical blue-hour light, twinkling city streets, and endless opportunities for aurora hunting.
Average winter temperatures hover around 25°F (–4°C), though the coastal climate often feels milder than you might expect.
👉 Still, you’ll want to pack warm layers—check out my Norway winter packing list to make sure you’re prepared for Arctic conditions.
If you’re planning a Norway winter itinerary, Tromsø is the perfect Arctic base—pair it with Kirkenes, Bergen, or Flåm for a full Northern Norway experience.
How to Get to Tromsø in Winter
Since Tromsø was one of our stops on a 12-day winter trip through Norway, we arrived by air—flying with Widerøe from Sørkjosen Airport (SOJ) to Tromsø Airport (TOS) (after a magical night in a glass igloo at Lyngen North).
From the airport, we hopped on the Flybussen airport bus, which departs every 5–10 minutes and takes about 15 minutes to reach the city center. From there, it was an easy two-block walk to our hotel.
If you’re coming from Oslo, Bergen, or Trondheim, there are direct flights to Tromsø several times per day, making it a convenient winter destination to add to any Norway itinerary.
Once in the city, it’s easy to get around by foot—most of Tromsø’s main attractions, restaurants, and museums are within walking distance.
Buses and taxis are available for longer trips, like to the Fjellheisen Cable Car or Tromsø Wilderness Centre.
Where to Stay in Tromsø: Best Harbor Views
We checked into the Scandic Ishavshotel, a modern, waterfront hotel right in the heart of Tromsø.
It’s conveniently located within walking distance of nearly all major attractions, including the harbor, Polaria, and Ølhallen Brewery.
We arrived early in the morning, and the friendly staff happily stored our luggage while we started exploring the city.
Our room offered panoramic views of the harbor and snow-dusted mountains, and the award-winning breakfast buffet was the perfect way to start our Arctic mornings.
There’s also an on-site restaurant serving fresh seafood and locally sourced meat with a contemporary Norwegian twist.
Other great winter stays in Tromsø:
- Clarion Hotel The Edge: modern and stylish with fjord views
- Radisson Blu Tromsø: excellent location for Northern Lights tours
- Enter Amalie Hotel: cozy and budget-friendly option near the harbor
3-Day Tromsø Winter Itinerary
Tromsø is a lively Arctic city full of culture, adventure, and incredible cuisine.
Its location—surrounded by dramatic mountains, icy fjords, and scattered islands—creates endless opportunities for winter fun. You won’t be bored here, that’s for sure!
Here’s our Tromsø winter itinerary at a glance:
Day 1 | Arrive & Chase the Northern Lights
- Fly Sørkjosen → Tromsø (~25 minutes)
- Check into your hotel and/or drop off your luggage
- Visit the oldest house in Tromsø
- Walk across Tromsø Bridge for panoramic views
- Admire Tromsø’s historic churches
- Ride the Fjellheisen Cable Car for an incredible view of the city and fjord
- In the evening, join Best Arctic’s Northern Lights Safari
Day 2 | Arctic Culture & Local Life
- Visit Polaria to see the playful harbor seals
- Stop for a drink at Ølhallen Brewpub, Tromsø’s oldest pub
- Explore Norway’s first Troll Museum
- Learn about Sami culture and feed reindeer with Best Arctic
- End the day with drinks at Agenturet Øl og Vinbar, one of the city’s coziest cocktail bars
Day 3 | A Morning in Tromsø & Travel to Bergen
- Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring downtown Tromsø—grab a coffee, shop for souvenirs, or stroll along the waterfront
- Fly Tromsø → Bergen in the afternoon (~2.5 hours)
Keep reading for our full 3-day Tromsø itinerary, complete with our favorite experiences, restaurants, and local tips for visiting in winter.
Day 1 in Tromsø: Explore the City + See the Northern Lights
Visit the Oldest House in Tromsø
Unlike its namesake in Stockholm, Sweden, which is the world’s oldest open-air museum, Skansen Tromsø is a single historic building—and the oldest house in the city.
Originally built as a customs station in 1789, Skansen’s foundations are believed to date back to medieval fortifications from the 13th century. Pretty incredible, right?
While the small café here is only open in summer, it’s still worth a stop to admire the building’s history and charm.
We visited in February, so we couldn’t go inside, but it was fascinating to see how this little piece of history has been preserved in the heart of Tromsø.
Walk Across Tromsø Bridge
Connecting Tromsøya Island to the mainland, the Tromsø Bridge (Tromsøbrua) is one of the city’s most important and recognizable landmarks.
When it opened in 1960, it became Norway’s first cantilever bridge and the longest bridge in Northern Europe at the time (it’s 3,399-feet-long)—replacing the ferry system that once carried residents across the Tromsøysundet strait.
We walked across using the pedestrian path on the south side (there’s also a bike path on the north). The views from the bridge are absolutely breathtaking—with snow-covered peaks, the Arctic Cathedral in the distance, and the colorful city center behind you.
Take your time and enjoy it; it’s a beautiful way to see Tromsø from above!
Admire the Churches of Tromsø
Across the bridge sits the Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen), one of Tromsø’s most striking landmarks.
Built in 1965, it’s actually a parish church—not a cathedral—but its angular, modern design has made it one of the most photographed buildings in Northern Norway.
Inside, there’s a stunning glass mosaic depicting Christ’s return. Even if you just admire it from the outside, it’s worth the short walk across the bridge.
Back in the city center, you’ll also find two more noteworthy churches:
- Tromsø Cathedral: Norway’s only wooden cathedral
- Cathedral of Our Lady: the northernmost Catholic cathedral in the world
Ride the Fjellheisen Cable Car
For panoramic views of Tromsø and its surrounding fjords, ride the Fjellheisen Cable Car up Storsteinen Mountain.
The four-minute ride from Solliveien in Tromsdalen (about 10–15 minutes by taxi from the city center) whisks you to an elevation of 1,381 feet (421 meters).
From the top, you can see the Tromsø Bridge, Tromsdalstinden Mountain, and the glowing city lights below.
We visited on a cloudy day, and the colors with the sun peeking out over the Arctic landscape were just stunning.
There’s a cozy café at the top, Fjellstua Restaurant, which serves warm drinks and light meals.
Fjellheisen is also a gateway to various arctic activities like hiking, snowshoeing, and paragliding, and it’s one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø!
Chase the Northern Lights
For our first night, we joined a Northern Lights Small-Group Tour from Tromso with Tromso Safari (now Best Arctic)—and it was one of the highlights of our entire trip!
Tour details:
- 🕕 Meeting point: Radisson Blu Hotel, 6 pm
- ⏰ Duration: 5–7 hours, returning to Tromsø between 11:30 pm -1:30 am
- 💰 Price (at time of our visit): 1,590 NOK (~$160 USD per adult)
- 🎒 Includes: Transportation to and from private Aurora camp, English-speaking guide, warm overalls, dinner & non-alcoholic drinks, tripod use, & high-resolution photos
- ❌ Not included: Gratuities/tips
Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket list experience, and because of its location north of the Arctic Circle and inside the aurora oval, Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to do so!
Our guides checked weather forecasts before departure and drove us to whichever of their private Aurora camps had the clearest skies.
Inside a small cabin, we sipped soup and coffee while waiting for the Aurora to appear—and when it did, it was spectacular.
They even took professional photos for us (which was great, since it’s tricky to capture the lights perfectly yourself!).
A Broad Recommendation: Wear your warmest layers, a thermal base layer, snow pants, insulated coat, warm gloves, ear warmer headband or hat, scarf, wool socks, and boots—temperatures can drop fast while waiting outdoors.
We had so much fun on this excursion and were so excited to see the Northern Lights (again)!
Plus, I love that Best Arctic is dedicated to creating a more sustainable economic model for the region and tourism.
They divide the income from this tour between the bus drivers, guides, and the owners of the camps, who use local businesses to supply food for the tours.
A Broad Recommendation: The best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø, Norway is from September to early April, so plan accordingly. We visited in February and were lucky to get a 5-out-of-5 aurora show, according to our guides. It was pure magic!
Day 2 in Tromsø: Arctic Wildlife & Sami Culture
See the Seals at Polaria
Start your day at Polaria, one of the most unique attractions in Tromsø and a fun stop for all ages.
Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, this Arctic aquarium and experience center is home to four playful seals—two bearded seals from Svalbard and two harbor seals from Lofoten.
It’s actually one of only two places in Europe where you can see bearded seals up close!
We arrived just in time for their training and feeding session, one of Polaria’s most popular exhibits. Watching the seals interact with their trainers was both entertaining and educational, and we loved learning about Polaria’s mission to promote climate and environmental awareness in the Arctic region.
Besides the seals, Polaria features a small aquarium with Arctic fish species like catfish, dogfish, and Norway’s famous king crab, plus a panoramic film about Svalbard and the Northern Lights.
It’s a great indoor option if you need a break from Tromsø’s winter chill.
A Broad Recommendation: Check the schedule ahead of time, and arrive early to grab a front-row spot for the seal feeding show!
Grab a Drink at Tromsø’s Oldest Pub
No visit to Tromsø is complete without a stop at Ølhallen, the oldest pub in Tromsø and part of the legendary Mack Brewery—the northernmost brewery in the world.
This spot has been serving locals since 1928, when it was referred to simply as “The Hall.” Once a hangout for fishermen and townspeople, it’s now a must-visit for travelers.
With 72 beers on tap, Ølhallen offers one of Europe’s largest draft selections, and we loved sampling a few local brews while soaking in the warm, wood-paneled atmosphere.
As they say in Tromsø, “You haven’t been to Tromsø if you haven’t visited Ølhallen,” and we couldn’t agree more.
Visit Norway’s First Troll Museum
Continuing our cultural streak, we popped into the Tromsø Troll Museum—Norway’s first and, at the time, only museum dedicated entirely to trolls!
The interactive exhibits use augmented reality to bring Norwegian folklore and fairy tales to life. You can even see what you’d look like as a troll (we, of course, had to try it).
The museum features two main halls—“The Road of Trolls” and “The Home of the Sea Troll”—plus a small library and game area.
It’s quirky, family-friendly, and an easy addition to any Tromsø winter itinerary.
Learn Sami Culture & Feed Reindeer
In the evening, we joined Best Arctic’s Sami Reindeer Experience, one of our favorite moments of the entire trip.
Tour details:
- 🕕 Meeting point: Radisson Blu Hotel, 5:30 pm
- ⏰ Duration: 4–5 hours
- 💰 Price (at time of visit): 1,295 NOK (~$132 USD per adult)
- 🎒 Includes: Transportation to and from the camp, English-speaking guide, dinner & non-alcoholic drinks, & Sami cultural presentation
- ❌ Not included: Gratuities/tips
After a 30–45-minute drive east toward the Lyngen Alps, we arrived at a traditional Sami camp, home to a herd of around 200 reindeer.
We gathered inside a lavvu (a Sami tent) around a crackling fire, where our Sami host shared stories about their culture, heritage, and reindeer herding traditions. We were even treated to a joik, a hauntingly beautiful traditional song.
The Sami are the Indigenous people of Northern Europe and Scandinavia, with roots stretching back more than 9,000 years—wow!
Traditionally nomadic, they’ve long been known for their deep connection to the land and for reindeer herding, a practice that still plays a vital role in their culture today.
Reindeer are central to Sami life, providing food, clothing, and inspiration for stories, legends, and handicrafts.
Though many Sami now live modern lives, ancient traditions like joik, duodji (handicrafts), and reindeer husbandry remain alive and well—about 10% of Sami still work as reindeer herders.
Then came the best part: feeding more than 200 reindeer by hand! Each reindeer had its own personality—some shy and cautious, others bold and playful. We were given buckets of food, and before long, we were surrounded by curious reindeer eager for a snack (or ten).
It was such a fun and memorable experience, watching their gentle eyes and velvety noses up close!
A Broad Recommendation: Reindeer are friendly and social animals, but watch out for those antlers—they can be a bit clumsy and might accidentally bump or snag your jacket!
After the feeding, we headed back inside for a cozy three-course meal featuring bidos, a hearty reindeer stew often served at Sami weddings.
Sitting by the fire, surrounded by new friends and stories, felt like such an authentic and meaningful way to end the night.
And if you’re lucky, you might even spot the Northern Lights dancing overhead before heading back to Tromsø.
Have Drinks at Agenturet
Back in the city, we wrapped up the evening at Agenturet, a cozy, timber-walled bar and bistro housed in a historic 1837 building.
Spread over three floors, it features a beer and wine bar downstairs and a gin bar upstairs and is a great spot to unwind after a day of Arctic adventures.
Their motto says it all: “If you’re doing well, we are doing well.”
We loved the warm, local vibe—and it was the perfect way to toast another incredible day in Tromsø.
Day 3 in Tromsø: Museums, Cafés & Fjordside Charm
Explore Downtown Tromsø
Our last day in Tromsø was all about exploring the downtown area before catching our afternoon flight to Bergen.
We wandered through the snow-covered streets, stopping by the Tromsø Harbor, the Tromsø City Library, and the Perspektivet Museum, which showcases local art and photography.
Even just walking around the harbor, with mountains rising behind the city, felt special—Tromsø really shines in winter light.
If you have more time, the Polar Museum tells the fascinating story of Arctic expeditions.
💭 Next time, we’d love to visit the Tromsø Ice Domes or try a winter sea kayaking tour!
Fly from Tromsø to Bergen
After some exploring and one last breakfast at our hotel (and plenty of smoked salmon), we headed to the airport—just a quick 15-minute bus ride away—for our flight to Bergen and the next chapter of our Norway winter adventure!
Tromsø to Bergen travel tip: Sit on the left side of the plane for incredible mountain and fjord views on the way south!
More Things to Do in Tromsø in Winter
Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to do everything Tromsø has to offer—but there’s no shortage of incredible Arctic adventures to choose from!
If you’re planning a longer stay or building your own Tromsø winter itinerary, here are a few more ideas to consider:
- 🍺 Taste your way through Tromsø’s best brews with a 3-hour Tromsø Beer Safari
- ❄️ Visit the famous Tromsø Ice Domes, a hotel and art exhibition made entirely of snow and ice
- 🐋 Spot humpback and killer whales on a silent whale watching tour (December–January)
- 🐕 Mush your own team of huskies on a self-drive dog sledding adventure
- 🥾 Explore Arctic nature on a guided snowshoeing tour
- 🛶 Go winter sea kayaking through Tromsø’s fjords
- 🌿 Stroll through the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden, the world’s northernmost botanical garden
- 🎨 Admire Northern Norwegian art at the Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum
- 🌌 Learn about the aurora at Norway’s first planetarium, the Northern Lights Planetarium
- 🔬 Visit the Northern Norwegian Science Center for interactive Arctic exhibits
- 🧖♀️ Relax at one of Tromsø’s floating saunas—Pust Tromsø came highly recommended!
A Broad Recommendation: Always double-check availability and opening hours. Some activities are seasonal and may close in winter, while others (like whale watching and kayaking) only run at certain times of year.
Tromsø Winter Travel Tips
Planning your own Arctic escape? Here are a few practical travel tips to make the most of your time in Tromsø.
What to Expect in Tromsø in Winter
Tromsø sits 217 miles north of the Arctic Circle, so expect chilly temperatures and magical winter light.
- Average temperature in February: around 25°F (–4°C)
- Polar night: mid-November to mid-January (the sun doesn’t rise fully, but the “blue hour” glow is stunning)
- Aurora season: late September through early April
We visited in February and loved the balance of daylight hours, snow-covered scenery, and high chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
What to Pack for Norway in Winter
Layers are key for enjoying Tromsø’s outdoor adventures comfortably.
Our must-pack list includes:
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- A warm mid-layer (fleece or down)
- Waterproof, insulated jacket
- Waterproof snow pants
- Wool socks and insulated snow boots with traction
- Hat, ear warmer headband, warm gloves, scarf, and neck gaiter
- Hand warmers for Northern Lights nights
- Optional: Swimsuit (yes!)—for saunas and hot tubs
- A camera with manual settings or tripod for aurora photography
If you’re joining excursions like dog sledding or reindeer feeding, most operators provide thermal suits and boots, so you can stay warm even in sub-zero temps.
👉 Check out my full Norway winter packing list to make sure you’re prepared for Arctic conditions.
Budget Tips for Tromsø in Winter
Tromsø is known to be pricey, but a few small tricks can help keep your costs down:
- Book excursions and accommodations well in advance for lower rates
- Take advantage of free activities, like walking across the Tromsø Bridge or visiting the Arctic Cathedral
- Buy alcohol at the duty-free shop before arriving—it’s significantly cheaper than in town
- Opt for hotels with breakfast included (like the Scandic Ishavshotel—their buffet was incredible!)
FAQ About Visiting Tromsø in Winter
What is the best month to visit Tromsø for the Northern Lights?
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø is from late September to early April, when the nights are longest and skies are darkest.
We visited in February and had incredible luck—clear nights, fresh snow, and an unforgettable aurora show.
If you want a good balance of daylight for sightseeing and high chances of seeing the Northern Lights, January through March is ideal.
How many days do you need in Tromsø?
I recommend spending at least three full days in Tromsø. That gives you time to explore the city, join a Northern Lights tour, and experience Arctic culture—like reindeer feeding or dog sledding.
If you have more time, add an extra day or two for a fjord cruise, the Tromsø Ice Domes, or whale watching (in December–January).
Is Tromsø worth visiting in the winter?
Absolutely! Tromsø is one of Norway’s best winter destinations, blending Arctic adventure with cozy cafés and culture.
You can chase the Northern Lights, visit museums, meet reindeer, and warm up in floating saunas—all within a compact, walkable city surrounded by fjords and snow-covered mountains.
Can you see the Northern Lights from Tromsø city center?
Yes, it’s possible—but light pollution can make them harder to see clearly from the city.
Your best chance is to join a guided Northern Lights tour, where local experts drive you to darker areas with clearer skies.
We joined Best Arctic’s Northern Lights Safari and had an unforgettable experience!
How cold does Tromsø get in winter?
Winter temperatures in Tromsø average around 25°F (–4°C), though it can feel colder with the wind.
The good news? The coastal climate keeps temperatures milder than many expect this far north.
Just dress in warm layers—thermal base layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated boots are key!
How do you get around Tromsø in the winter?
Tromsø is very walkable, and most main attractions—like Polaria, Ølhallen, and the Arctic Cathedral—are within 10–15 minutes on foot.
For longer trips—like to the Fjellheisen Cable Car or Tromsø Wilderness Centre—you can take a local bus or taxi.
What’s the easiest way to get to Tromsø?
Tromsø Airport (TOS) is just 15 minutes from the city center and has daily direct flights from Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim.
From the airport, the Flybussen Airport Express bus is the easiest and most affordable option—it runs every 5–10 minutes.
If you’re exploring more of Northern Norway, you can also arrive by cruise or ferry.
Can you visit Tromsø without booking guided tours?
Yes—you can explore much of Tromsø on your own!
Attractions like Polaria, Ølhallen, the Arctic Cathedral, and the Troll Museum are all within walking distance.
However, for the Northern Lights, dog sledding, or reindeer experiences, guided tours are well worth it—they handle logistics, gear, and often photography, making the most of your limited Arctic daylight hours.
Is Tromsø safe in winter?
Very safe! Tromsø is a friendly, low-crime city. The biggest winter hazard is ice, so use traction cleats or sturdy boots when walking.
Guided tours run even in challenging weather—Arctic Norwegians know how to handle winter!
What are the must-try foods in Tromsø?
You’ll find plenty of cozy restaurants serving Arctic specialties like:
- Bidos (traditional Sami reindeer stew)
- Fresh cod or king crab
- Cloudberries (local fruit often served with cream or waffles)
What should I combine Tromsø with on a winter trip to Norway?
Tromsø fits perfectly into a Northern Norway winter itinerary. You can:
- Stay in a glass igloo at Lyngen North—one of our favorite experiences of all time!
- Spend a night at the Snowhotel Kirkenes—another unforgettable winter experience!
- Continue south to colorful city of Bergen and charming village of Flåm for scenic fjords
It’s easy to link Tromsø with other Arctic destinations for a once-in-a-lifetime Norway winter route.
👉 If you’re planning a longer Norway adventure, you may also be interested in an afternoon in Oslo and an awesome Arctic adventure in Kirkenes.
Final Thoughts: Tromsø Stole Our Hearts
Our three days in Tromsø were truly unforgettable—a blend of Arctic adventure, culture, and cozy winter charm.
From feeding reindeer under snow-dusted skies to watching the Northern Lights dance across the horizon, Tromsø captured everything we imagined a winter trip to Norway would be.
If you’re dreaming of chasing the aurora, meeting reindeer, and sipping cocoa by the fjord, Tromsø is the ultimate Arctic getaway.
We visited in February with two of our best friends, Allison and Ryan, and it was one of the most magical travel experiences we’ve ever had.
👉 If you’re interested in continuing your Norway trip, check out my 12-day winter Norway itinerary next! Or, expand your Nordic adventures to Denmark, Iceland, or Sweden.
XOXO Sara at Travel A-Broads
Sara is the founder of and voice behind Travel A-Broads, a travel blog designed to empower women to explore the world boldly and safely.
A Sr. Manager of a Data Engineering team (aka math nerd) by day and travel enthusiast by night, Sara shares practical tips, curated itineraries, and inspiring stories from her adventures across 5 continents and 28+ countries and helps curious, independent women plan smarter, travel farther, and feel more connected along the way.
Read more about Sara’s journey here, and start planning your next adventure today!
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