Tromsø travel guide
Tromsø Tourism | Tromsø Guide
You're Going to Love Tromsø
Journey to the Arctic circle and experience one of the world's northernmost cities of Tromsø. From here, you'll be able to explore the natural beauty of Norway, including fjord trails, wildlife expeditions and the famous northern lights
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Tromsø
1. The Northern Lights
Tromsø is one of the best and most reliably consistent places to see the aurora borealis phenomenon light up the night sky.
2. Fjord excursions
There are many tour companies that can take you to the best hikes for truly spectacular views from the fjord.
3. Arctic Cathedral
For 50dk you can visit the unique concrete, steel and glass church that echoes the dynamic arctic architecture of Tromsø.
4. Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden
Wander through the diverse plant selection of the world's northernmost botanical garden.
5. Polaria
This arctic aquarium puts an emphasis on education, displaying species and landscapes from the nearby Svalbard islands.
What to do in Tromsø
1. Tromsø University Museum: Study and Marvel
Where else can you view the Northern Lights, and then study them too? Learn all about the physics behind the Aurora Borealis phenomenon, discover the history of sealing, or view the mysterious creatures that live in the most extreme frozen climates of Norway, sealed in ice. The Tromsø University Museum is the oldest institution in Norway that is dedicated to the science, preservation, and study of the Norwegian landscape and culture. Learn about the region's rapid changes through charting the evolution of its rocks and documented displays of traditional Sami life, as well as a collection on Vikings.
2. Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden: A Different Kind of Landscape
It's a whole new world when you're "north of north" - yet the vegetation in the extreme Arctic climate is beautiful and awe-inspiring. Open from late May to early October, the Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden is free to all visitors and is run by the Tromsø University Museum. If you visit from May to July, you'll be visiting the gardens at a time of continuous daylight, known as "midnight sun". Besides the gorgeous alpine gardens, the backdrop of Tromsdalstind mountain makes for a truly stunning view.
3. Arctic Cathedral: The "Opera House" of Norway
Leave it to the design-friendly people of Norway to have crafted two stellar cathedrals, one known for being made entirely out of wood and this, the Arctic Cathedral, exquisitely designed in the form of an A. It's called the Opera House of Norway because of its close architectural resemblance to the Opera House in Sydney, Australia. Besides the modern and imposing design that cuts a stark figure against the setting sun, the Arctic Cathedral, which gives off a distantly cold yet beautiful vibe, features one side completely covered in cut mosaic glass.
4. Polaria: Where Adults and Children Can Converge
Cleverly designed and dedicated to the presentation and preservation of Arctic wildlife, Polaria purports to be both a place and an experience. The building - which is constructed to look like a stack of ice floes falling domino-style against one another - features an Arctic aquarium, a panoramic cinema hall that screens wildlife films by Norwegian directors, and the educational Arctic Walkway. Here, visitors can meander and learn about the research being done in Arctic zones, changes affecting the region, and the habitats of wildlife along the way.
5. Tromsø domkirke: Known For More Than Just Worship
The Tromsø Cathedral is the biggest wooden cathedral in Norway and the only one to be able to seat 900 individuals at once. It was built in 1861 by architect Christian Heinrich Grosch, and its interiors are as epic as its impressive exterior. Stained glass installations, a bell tower, dazzling chandelier lights, upper-wing seating and a figure of Madonna dating back to the 15th century complete this beautiful house of worship, as notable for its sermons as it is for its structure. Visitors to the Tromsø Cathedral will enjoy its implicit ode to writing and art.
1. Tromsø University Museum: Study and Marvel
Where else can you view the Northern Lights, and then study them too? Learn all about the physics behind the Aurora Borealis phenomenon, discover the history of sealing, or view the mysterious creatures that live in the most extreme frozen climates of Norway, sealed in ice. The Tromsø University Museum is the oldest institution in Norway that is dedicated to the science, preservation, and study of the Norwegian landscape and culture. Learn about the region's rapid changes through charting the evolution of its rocks and documented displays of traditional Sami life, as well as a collection on Vikings.
2. Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden: A Different Kind of Landscape
It's a whole new world when you're "north of north" - yet the vegetation in the extreme Arctic climate is beautiful and awe-inspiring. Open from late May to early October, the Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden is free to all visitors and is run by the Tromsø University Museum. If you visit from May to July, you'll be visiting the gardens at a time of continuous daylight, known as "midnight sun". Besides the gorgeous alpine gardens, the backdrop of Tromsdalstind mountain makes for a truly stunning view.
3. Arctic Cathedral: The "Opera House" of Norway
Leave it to the design-friendly people of Norway to have crafted two stellar cathedrals, one known for being made entirely out of wood and this, the Arctic Cathedral, exquisitely designed in the form of an A. It's called the Opera House of Norway because of its close architectural resemblance to the Opera House in Sydney, Australia. Besides the modern and imposing design that cuts a stark figure against the setting sun, the Arctic Cathedral, which gives off a distantly cold yet beautiful vibe, features one side completely covered in cut mosaic glass.
4. Polaria: Where Adults and Children Can Converge
Cleverly designed and dedicated to the presentation and preservation of Arctic wildlife, Polaria purports to be both a place and an experience. The building - which is constructed to look like a stack of ice floes falling domino-style against one another - features an Arctic aquarium, a panoramic cinema hall that screens wildlife films by Norwegian directors, and the educational Arctic Walkway. Here, visitors can meander and learn about the research being done in Arctic zones, changes affecting the region, and the habitats of wildlife along the way.
5. Tromsø domkirke: Known For More Than Just Worship
The Tromsø Cathedral is the biggest wooden cathedral in Norway and the only one to be able to seat 900 individuals at once. It was built in 1861 by architect Christian Heinrich Grosch, and its interiors are as epic as its impressive exterior. Stained glass installations, a bell tower, dazzling chandelier lights, upper-wing seating and a figure of Madonna dating back to the 15th century complete this beautiful house of worship, as notable for its sermons as it is for its structure. Visitors to the Tromsø Cathedral will enjoy its implicit ode to writing and art.
Where to Eat in Tromsø
Egon Tromsø is a local favorite, serving traditional Norweigan cuisine. Dinner prices are between 200-250kr.
When to visit Tromsø
The Northern Lights can be best seen from September to April, making the fall/winter the most optimal time to visit.
How to Get to Tromsø
Plane
Tromsø Airport Langnes is 5km outside of the city, with most international flights connecting in through Oslo. Tickets from Oslo to Tromso cost around 550kr each way.
Train
There is currently no train operating to Tromsø, though the train will take you as far as Bodø, from where you can transfer by bus.
Car
The E8 highway is a 1700-kilometer-long motorway that's open year round from Oslo and takes about 25 hours to travel along. Winter road conditions should be taken into account when visiting.
Bus
Long distance buses are available from the cities of Alta, Narvik and Fauske. Tickets cost around 120kr one way and the journey takes roughly 20 hours.
Airlines serving Tromsø
Where to stay in Tromsø
Hamna - The harbor neighborhood in the south east part of the island contains most of the cities attractions, restaurants, hotels and nightlife.
Popular Neighborhoods in Tromsø
Prestvannet - This area is quite rural, with a beautiful lake in the center. The surrounding countryside provides some of the best landscape for outdoor sports and activities.
Where to stay in popular areas of Tromsø
Most booked hotels in Tromsø
How to Get Around Tromsø
Public Transportation
There are many buses running through Tromsø and nearby northern cities. Tickets can be bought onboard for 50kr per ride.
Taxi
You can either hail a cab or pre-order a taxi for convenience. Tariffs start at 60kr and can cost between 200-300kr within the city.
Car
Rental vehicles can be picked up from Tromsø airport with an average daily rate of around 1,100kr.
Best car hire deals in Tromsø
Intermediate SUV
5 Adults, 3 Bags
€104/day
Standard SUV
5 Adults, 3 Bags
€135/day
The Cost of Living in Tromsø
Shopping Streets
Storgata pedestrian street hosts many tourist souvenir shops and cafes. Nerstranda Shopping is the biggest and only indoor mall selling food, alcohol, clothes and accessories from internationally recognized chains.
Groceries and Other
The main shopping markets in Tromsø are Jekta Storsenter and Nerstranda Senter. A dozen eggs costs around 35kr.