How many days do you need in Tromsø? Let me help you answer! Nestled high above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is a city that serves as the gateway to Norway’s stunning northern wilderness. Often dubbed the ‘Paris of the North’, this charming city blends rich history, stunning natural beauty, and modern amenities to create an unforgettable destination for travellers.
Tromsø might surprise you with its buzzing atmosphere and cultural offerings. Despite its remote location, the city boasts a thriving arts scene, world-class museums, and a university that lends a youthful energy to the nightlife scene. But what truly sets Tromsø apart is its unique position as a base for arctic adventures. Let’s explore how many days you need in Tromsø.
Table of Contents
What you need to know about Tromsø
- Northern Lights Capital: Tromsø sits in the middle of the auroral zone, making it one of the best places in the world to witness the mesmerising Northern Lights. More on this later!
- Midnight Sun: From late May to late July, the sun never sets in Tromsø, offering visitors the surreal experience of 24-hour daylight. Conversely the sun doesn’t actually rise in the winter months of late November to mid January.
- World’s Northernmost University: The University of Tromsø is the northernmost university in the world, attracting students and researchers from across the globe.
- Unique Architecture: The Arctic Cathedral, with its striking triangular structure, is an iconic landmark that dominates the Tromsø skyline.
- Rich Sami Culture: Tromsø has a significant Sami population, offering visitors a chance to learn about the indigenous people of the Arctic.
- Surprising Warmth: Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Tromsø enjoys a milder climate than other places at similar latitudes, making it more hospitable than you might expect. Definitely pack those thermals though.
Take a look at my guide to the best bars and pubs in Tromsø
Best Time of Year to Visit
The best time to visit Tromsø largely depends on what you want to experience. Each season offers something unique:
Winter (December to March): This is the prime time for Northern Lights hunting and winter activities like dog sledding and whale watching. The city is at its most magical, blanketed in snow and illuminated by the soft glow of the polar night. However, be prepared for cold temperatures and limited daylight.
Spring (April to May): As daylight hours increase, you can enjoy a mix of winter and summer activities. The snow starts to melt, revealing the city’s colourful buildings.
Summer (June to August): Experience the midnight sun and endless days. It’s perfect for hiking, fjord cruises, and outdoor festivals. The weather is mild, and the city is alive with activity.
Autumn (September to November): The Northern Lights return, and the landscape transforms into a stunning palette of autumn colours. It’s less crowded than winter, but some tourist facilities may start to close for the season.
For the ultimate arctic experience, including Northern Lights, whale watching, and winter sports, plan your visit between late November and early March.
How to Get There
Getting to Tromsø is easier than you might think, the best way for us was to fly via Oslo (check out the best things to do in Oslo here), but you have a few options and some airlines even fly direct in peak season.
By Air: Tromsø Airport, Langnes, is well-connected with direct flights from Oslo and other major Norwegian cities. There are also some international flights, particularly during the peak winter season. From the airport, it’s a quick 10-minute drive to the city centre and taxi’s are readily available as well as Uber.
By Sea: If you’re up for a scenic journey, consider taking the Hurtigruten coastal ferry. It stops in Tromsø as part of its route along the Norwegian coast.
By Road: For the adventurous, a road trip through Norway to reach Tromsø can be an unforgettable experience. Just be prepared for long distances and potentially challenging winter driving conditions.
Once in Tromsø, the city centre is compact and walkable, with good public transport options for reaching attractions further afield.
What area should I stay in?
Take a look at my detailed guide covering the best hotels for all budgets in Tromsø
Tromsø offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:
City Centre: For convenience, stay in the heart of Tromsø. You’ll be within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and major attractions. Options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. This is also where the majority of tour operators pick up from.
Across the Bridge: For stunning views of the city and easier access to the Arctic Cathedral and cable car, consider staying on the mainland side of Tromsø.
Outside the City/Unique options: For a more secluded experience and better Northern Lights viewing, look for cabins or hotels on the outskirts of Tromsø. Also Consider staying in a glass igloo, an ice hotel, or a traditional Sami lavvu for a truly memorable experience.
TOP TIP! Read this if you are looking to get around Tromsø by bus
For the purpose of this article I am focusing on how many days for the perfect winter trip Tromsø itinerary, as that was my experience, but as I outlined above, Tromsø is also very much an option for a summer trip too.
To make the most of your evening, have a look at my full guide to the best restaurants in Tromsø
Disclaimer: This article features affiliate links. If you click these links, and choose to book with that hotel or company, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I appreciate the support that allows me to continue providing this information
Day 1: Exploring Tromsø and Chasing the Northern Lights
Your arctic adventure begins with a some time exploring downtown Tromsø. Start by taking a leisurely stroll through the city centre, absorbing the unique blend of traditional wooden houses and modern architecture.
You can stroll at your own pace, as we did, or opt to make your way to the Tromsø Museum or the Polar Museum to dive deeper into Tromsø’s role as the ‘Gateway to the Arctic’.
Here, you’ll discover tales of daring polar expeditions and the city’s whaling history. to learn about the region’s fascinating history and the indigenous Sami people.
For lunch, pop into one of the local cafes and try some traditional Norwegian fare. We opted to try Raketten Bar & Polse, Tromsø’s famous hot dog hole in the wall, an institution over 100 years old.
The sign stating “Norway’s smallest bar since 2014” only adds to the charm, with Reindeer hot dogs on the menu, you might be in for a surprise too! Find out more about it here
As evening, or more appropriately darkness (2pm is when the sunset fades in January) approaches, prepare for the highlight of your first day – a Northern Lights tour.
This isn’t about ‘chasing’ the lights as some tours might suggest. Instead, you’ll be taken to carefully selected locations away from city lights where the chances of seeing the aurora are highest.
Top tip: Wrap up incredibly warm. You’ll be standing outside in the Arctic night, so layer up more than you think necessary. Most tours provide thermal suits, but it’s best to check in advance.
Your guide will likely take you to a spot in the middle of nowhere, far from any light pollution. Many tours include dinner, a cosy camp setup with open fires, hot drinks, and even some marshmallows to roast – a perfect way to stay warm while waiting for the lights.
Photography tips
When the lights appear, be ready with your camera. If you’re not a photography expert, don’t worry. Your guide will help you set up your camera for the best shots. A few key things to remember:
- Use a tripod – it’s essential for the long exposure times needed.
- Learn how to use your camera’s night mode or manual settings. I was astounded by how good the iPhone night mode is. This guide will help newbies
- Bring extra batteries – the cold can drain them quickly.
We got lucky but even if the lights don’t make an appearance (they are a natural phenomenon, after all), the experience of standing around a fire under the star-filled Arctic sky is an unforgettable way to end your first night and full day.
We booked our tour through Getyourguide who we found very reliable throughout the trip. Our included coach transfer both ways (pick up and drop off at the Radisson Blu), a meal, guide and marshmallows – non negotiable for my other half!
Prices start at £70 and you can find the options to BOOK HERE
Some people prefer Viator as a platform, tour options can be FOUND HERE for you to compare and contrast
Day 2: Whale Watching in the Fjords
After breakfast, it’s time to head out to sea for a whale watching adventure. Tromsø’s location in Northern Norway makes it one of the best places in Europe to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
You’ll board one of the modern hybrid-electric catamarans that operate in the area. These vessels are not only comfortable but also environmentally friendly, minimising disturbance to the marine life.
As you cruise through the stunning fjords, keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales and orcas. The backdrop of snow-capped mountains and rugged coastline makes for a truly spectacular setting.
Your onboard guide will provide fascinating insights into the behaviour and biology of these magnificent creatures. Did you know that humpback whales can grow up to 16 metres long and weigh up to 30 tonnes? Or that orcas, despite being called ‘killer whales’, are actually the largest member of the dolphin family?
The best time for whale watching in Tromsø is from November to January when the whales follow the herring into the fjords. However, nature operates on its own schedule, so sightings can never be guaranteed.
Even if the whales prove elusive, the fjord cruise itself is a breath-taking experience. The arctic light during the polar night creates a magical atmosphere, with the sky painted in hues of pink, purple, and blue.
Getyourguide Prices start at £100 and you can find the options to BOOK HERE
Viator tour options can be FOUND HERE for you to compare and contrast
Day 3: Husky Sledding Adventure
Today, you’ll experience one of the most traditional and exhilarating Arctic activities – dog sledding. You’ll be picked up and taken to a husky farm outside the city, if you love dogs, you are about to have a truly great time.
As you approach the farm, you’ll hear the excited barking of the dogs – they’re as eager for the adventure as you are! These huskies are working dogs, bred for the snow, and they love nothing more than a good run, you will realise this immediately when you get going, the dogs don’t want to stop! What a great place for a run.
Top tip: Check in advance what gear is provided. Most tours offer thermal suits and boots, but it’s best to dress warmly underneath just in case. We both ended up wearing all our warm gear as well as the suit provided, we didn’t get too hot.
Before setting off, you’ll have time to meet the dogs and learn about their care. These animals are not just working dogs, but beloved members of the sledding team. Every single dog loved to have a fuss made of them, keen to be stroked and loving the attention.
Now for the exciting part – you’ll be able to drive your own sled! After a thorough safety briefing and driving lesson, you’ll set off into the snowy wilderness. Steering a dog sled is a unique skill, and there’s nothing quite like the rush of gliding over the snow, powered by a team of enthusiastic huskies.
Top tip: Some tours are not self drive, this might be good for you if you are nervous about controlling the sled. For us, self drive was non negotiable, so check before you book carefully. The process of driving the sled was very simple to learn.
The route will take you through stunning Arctic scenery – across frozen lakes, through snow-covered forests, and up and down thrilling hills. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like reindeer or Arctic foxes, we didn’t see any but we were pre briefed.
Halfway through the trip, you’ll stop for lunch. Many tours include a visit to a lavvu (traditional Sami tent) or even an igloo, where you can warm up with some hot drinks and a hearty meal, usually a soup.
After lunch, it’s back on the sleds for the return journey. By the end of the day, you’ll have formed a special bond with your dog team and gained a new appreciation for this traditional Arctic mode of transport. One word of warning, the dogs don’t stop when they’ve got going, even if one needs to toilet, so keep your eyes peeled in case you need to dodge quickly!
Getyourguide Prices start at £110 and you can find the options to BOOK HERE
Viator tour options can be FOUND HERE for you to compare and contrast
Day 4: Arctic Cabin Experience and Snowmobile Adventure
This was one of the best things we did on the trip, we chose to leave the city behind for a night in the Arctic wilderness. Opting for a remote igloo-style accommodation, with some excellent creature comforts and the ultimate definition of a room with a view!
Our trip included transfers to and from, with the meet point once again being the Radisson Blu. Upon arrival at your cabin, you’ll have time to settle in and explore your surroundings. Many of these remote accommodations offer stunning views of the Arctic landscape, curated perfectly for Northern Lights spotting later in the evening.
Our accommodation offered a choice of activity with our stay, as well as lunch, dinner and breakfast. Our choice was either snow shoeing or a snowmobile ride. With a penchant for adrenaline we opted for the latter.
This was my first time driving a snowmobile and I loved it, you feel like a true Arctic explorer. Your guide will show you and a small group how to handle the snowmobile safely, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to admire the breath-taking scenery and snap some pictures along the way.
Upon returning you can experience a proper Arctic style sauna to relax before dinner. The combination of intense heat and the brisk Arctic air outside is invigorating. For the brave, there is even the opportunity for a quick jump/roll in the snow.
As night falls, keep your eyes on the sky for another chance to see the Northern Lights. Away from any light pollution, the displays here can be truly spectacular. We got lucky and saw the lights multiple times in the night, sleeping with the curtains open with prime views form bed was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
It worth noting that a few places offer this, some igloos, some log cabins, some made of ice, with options for different budgets. Check very carefully what is included when you book to avoid disappointment. This was the most expensive activity we did during our trip, but it was so much more than a day trip and very much worth it.
We stayed at North Experience Basecamp which can be found and booked directly HERE
Getyourguide offer similar tours with hotel transfers and activities included starting at £250 BOOK HERE
And Viator have an overnight stay in a cabin, combined with dog sledding FOUND HERE
Day 5: Fjellheisen Cable Car and Arctic Cathedral
On your final day, it’s time to get a bird’s eye view of Tromsø. After returning to the city, check into your hotel and then make your way to the Fjellheisen Cable Car. This will whisk you up to the top of Mount Storsteinen, 421 metres above sea level.
Top tip: Time your visit to catch the sunset from the top. In December, this can be as early as 1 pm, plan accordingly and remember sunset here lasts a long time, so why not wrap up warm and take some snacks for a beautiful picnic.
At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breath-taking panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords and mountains. There are several hiking trails at the summit. We walked for two hours at the top and could have done longer had time allowed. This is something easy to do on your own, but if you are not confident, or fancy trying snow shoeing you can find some options here, including the price of the cable car ride.
As the sun begins to set, watch as the city below gradually lights up. The long winter sunsets in the Arctic create a magical atmosphere, with the sky painted in stunning shades of pink, purple, and orange.
After descending, make your way to the iconic Arctic Cathedral. This architectural marvel, with its distinctive peaked roof and large glass facade, is one of Tromsø’s most recognizable landmarks. The cathedral’s design is said to evoke Arctic imagery like ice floes and the aurora borealis.
If you have some energy left, consider a walk across the Tromsø Bridge, cameras at the ready. This 1,036-metre long bridge offers beautiful views of the city and the fjord, especially beautiful as the city lights twinkle.
Spending more time in Tromsø? Here are some extra options
If you are lucky enough to have some more time, or weren’t too keen on some of my suggestions above, here are some other activities that you can try
Travelling further than Tromso? Take a look at some of the best tours in other parts of Norway
Skiing at the Alpinpark
Tromsø Alpinpark, a short drive from the city centre, offers ski experiences for all levels. With 4 lifts and 8 slopes, including a 1,200-meter run, it’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned skiers. The park provides lessons, equipment rentals, and a cosy café for post-ski relaxation. Don’t miss the night skiing during polar night – floodlit runs leading down to the water, this was a totally surreal experience for me. I would note, for good skiers, this is more a few hours of ski fix, than an all day event. The snow is fantastic and resort immaculate, but 8 runs can only keep you entertained so long!
Read my full guide to skiing in Tromsø
Kayaking and Ice Fishing
Combine two Arctic adventures in one with kayaking and ice fishing. Paddle through stunning fjords, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine wilderness. Your guide will then help you try your hand at ice fishing. Some tours offer the chance to cook your catch on the spot.
Snowshoe Hiking
I mentioned a couple of options for this above, This accessible activity allows you to venture into pristine snow-covered landscapes. Your guide will point out local flora and fauna as you trek through the silent, snowy forest. Many hikes include a campfire lunch stop. For a special experience, consider a night-time snowshoe trek with the chance to spot the Northern Lights.
Reindeer Sledding/Feeding
No Arctic trip is complete without meeting reindeer. Visit a Sami camp to feed these iconic animals and learn about their importance in Sami culture. Then, enjoy a peaceful reindeer-drawn sled ride through the snowy landscape. Afterwards, warm up in a lavvu (traditional Sami tent), sample Sami cuisine, and learn about their rich cultural heritage. This is a fantastic alternative to dog sledding if you are not a dog person!
Tromsø Ice Domes
Just an hour from Tromsø, the Ice Domes offer a magical Arctic experience. This winter wonderland, rebuilt annually, features intricate ice sculptures and carvings depicting Arctic life and culture. Explore the ice bar, cinema, and restaurant, marvelling at the skill behind these frozen creations. Learn about the construction process and the science of snow and ice. It is even possible to book an overnight stay in an ice suite.
The Ice Domes maintain a constant -5°C, but warm clothing is provided. It’s also another excellent spot for Northern Lights viewing, away from city lights. Don’t forget your camera!
Getyourguide offer a full tour and hotel transfer starting at £95 BOOK HERE
Tips for Travelling to Tromsø
- Book in Advance: Popular activities like Northern Lights tours and whale watching trips can fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
- Be Flexible: Weather can be unpredictable in the Arctic. Have backup plans and be prepared to adjust your itinerary. I cannot stress this enough, we had to tweak our plans twice because of weather conditions.
- Bring a Good Camera: The scenery in and around Tromsø is stunning. A good camera (and tripod for Northern Lights photography) is worth the extra luggage space. Get to know the night mode on your camera and iPhone, especially for an epic shot of the northern lights.
- Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on fresh seafood and traditional Norwegian dishes.
- Learn Basic Norwegian Phrases: While most locals speak excellent English, knowing a few Norwegian words is always a nice touch and very much appreciated by the locals
- Respect Nature: When participating in outdoor activities, follow the ‘Leave No Trace’ principles to protect the pristine Arctic environment.
- Stay Safe: If venturing into the wilderness, always go with a guide or inform someone of your plans.
- Be Prepared for Expenses: Norway can be pricey. Budget accordingly in advance.
What to Pack
Packing for Tromsø requires careful consideration, especially if you’re visiting in winter. Here’s a list of essentials:
- Thermal Base Layers: Merino wool or synthetic materials work best.
- Warm Mid-Layers: Fleece or wool jumpers for insulation.
- Waterproof and Windproof Outer Layer: A good quality jacket and trousers are crucial.
- Warm, Waterproof Boots: Essential for snowy conditions and outdoor activities.
- Warm Socks: Wool socks are best for keeping feet warm and dry.
- Hat, Scarf, and Gloves: Protect extremities from the cold.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, especially when reflected off snow.
- Swimwear: For those brave enough to try an Arctic dip or for the sauna.
- Camera and Tripod: For capturing the Northern Lights and stunning landscapes.
- Portable Charger: Cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly.
- Hand and Foot Warmers: These can be a lifesaver on particularly cold days or long trips outside (searching for those northern lights!).
- Lip Balm and Moisturiser: The cold, dry air can be harsh on skin.
Remember, many tour operators provide thermal suits for activities like Northern Lights hunting or whale watching, but it’s always best to check in advance. Our experience was that we wanted to wear multiple layers underneath these still, as temperatures dropped dramatically and a lot of activities involve being still outside
Conclusion
That concludes my guide to how many days in Tromsø. A destination that promises adventure, natural wonders, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, immersing yourself in Arctic culture, or simply soaking in the stunning landscapes, this Norwegian gem has something for everyone.
Not sorted your hotel yet, take a look at my guide to the best hotels for all budgets in Tromsø or to make the most of your evening, have a look at my full guide to the best restaurants in Tromsø and best pubs and bars
While five days provides a good introduction to Tromsø and its surroundings, you could easily spend more time exploring this fascinating region. Each season brings its own charm
So pack your warmest clothes, charge your camera, and get ready for the arctic adventure of a lifetime in Tromsø, the gateway to the Arctic.
Pingback: Where to stay in Tromsø: Best hotels for all budgets - Travel tips and guides - Global Trip Diaries
Pingback: The best restaurants in Tromsø Norway for all budgets - Travel tips and guides - Global Trip Diaries
Pingback: Skiing in Tromsø: Your guide to a wonderful snow day - Travel tips and guides - Global Trip Diaries
Pingback: The best pubs and bars: Recommendations in Tromsø - Travel tips and guides - Global Trip Diaries
Pingback: How to travel around by bus in Tromsø Norway - Travel tips and guides - Global Trip Diaries