Things to Do in Tromso Norway: A Seasonal Guide for Summer & Winter

Tromso, Norway, is a beautiful city in the far north, above the Arctic Circle. It is a special place with different experiences in winter and summer. In winter, Tromso is covered in snow and ice, turning into a magical white world. Visitors can see the Northern Lights, go dog sledding, and watch whales in the sea. The days are short, but the sky is filled with beautiful colors. In summer, the sun never sets because of the Midnight Sun. People can hike in the mountains, kayak in the fjords, and enjoy nature all day and night. Tromso is perfect for people who love adventure, nature, and new experiences. This guide will show you the best things to do in Tromso, Norway, so you can enjoy your visit in any season.

Witness the Northern Lights (Winter: September to April)

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of the most mesmerizing natural phenomena in the world. Tromso is one of the best places on Earth to witness this stunning display, thanks to its location in the Aurora Zone.

Best Ways to See the Northern Lights:

Join a Guided Aurora Tour: Local guides take visitors to dark, remote areas where the lights shine the brightest. Many tours provide thermal clothing, tripods, and expert photography tips.
Take a Northern Lights Cruise: Viewing the auroras from the water enhances the experience, as the lights reflect beautifully on the sea.
Stay in a Glass Igloo or Aurora Cabin: Enjoy a cozy night under the Arctic sky with unobstructed views of the auroras from the warmth of your accommodation.
Self-Drive to Remote Viewing Spots: Renting a car and driving to Ersfjord, Kvaloya, or Sommaroy offers excellent chances of witnessing the auroras far from city lights.

Useful Tips:

The best time to see the Northern Lights is between 9 PM and 2 AM.
Check the aurora forecast and weather conditions before heading out.
Dress in multiple warm layers to withstand freezing temperatures.
Book tours early, as winter is peak season for aurora hunting.
Use a camera with manual settings to capture the best aurora photos.

Experience the Midnight Sun (Summer: Late May to Late July)

During summer, Tromso enjoys 24 hours of daylight due to the Midnight Sun, making it a paradise for outdoor lovers.

Fun Things to Do Under the Midnight Sun:

Midnight Hike to Mount Storsteinen: Take the Fjellheisen Cable Car or hike up for panoramic views of the glowing Arctic landscape.
Kayaking in the Fjords: Paddle through calm Arctic waters while watching the sun hover on the horizon.
Wildlife Watching: Spot reindeer, Arctic foxes, puffins, and sea eagles in their natural habitat.
Road Trip to Sommaroy: Explore this remote island with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Fishing Tours: Catch Arctic cod, halibut, and king crab under the Midnight Sun.

Visit the Arctic Cathedral – A Stunning Landmark

The Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen) is one of Tromso’s most iconic architectural masterpieces. Its striking triangular design represents Arctic icebergs and mountains, and its massive stained-glass window is breathtaking.

Why Visit?

Attend a Midnight Sun Concert in summer, where classical and Nordic music fills the cathedral.
Experience the incredible acoustics, making concerts truly magical.
Enjoy stunning views of the city from the nearby Tromso Bridge.
Visit in winter for candlelit concerts, adding a serene and mystical atmosphere to the experience.

Try Dog Sledding (Winter: December to March)

Dog sledding in Tromso is an unforgettable Arctic adventure, offering the chance to explore vast snow-covered landscapes while being pulled by a team of energetic huskies.

What to Expect:

Choose between driving your own sled or riding as a passenger with a professional musher.
Meet and interact with friendly, well-trained Alaskan huskies.
Glide through frozen lakes, snowy forests, and breathtaking Arctic terrain.
Enjoy hot drinks and storytelling by the fire after the ride.
Some tours offer overnight stays in traditional Arctic lodges for a more immersive experience.

Did You Know? The Finnmarksløpet, Europe’s longest dog sled race, takes place in Northern Norway every March!

Go Whale Watching (Winter: November to January)

From November to January, Tromso’s fjords become a prime feeding ground for humpback whales and orcas, providing a thrilling wildlife experience.

Whale Watching Highlights:

Join a Boat Tour: Watch these gentle giants swim, breach, and hunt for herring in the fjords.
Silent Electric Boat Tours: These eco-friendly boats allow for a peaceful, non-intrusive experience.
Spot Other Arctic Wildlife: Look out for seals, white-tailed eagles, and porpoises during the trip.
Wear windproof and insulated clothing, as the open sea can be freezing.
Book early, as whale-watching tours fill up quickly in peak season.

Tip: Bring binoculars and a high-quality camera for the best wildlife shots!

Visit a Sami Reindeer Camp & Learn About Indigenous Culture

The Sami people are the indigenous inhabitants of Northern Norway. Visiting a Sami camp provides a deep cultural experience, giving insight into their centuries-old traditions.

What You Can Do:

Feed and interact with reindeer, learning about their role in Sami culture.
Experience reindeer sledding, a peaceful ride through snowy landscapes.
Gather inside a traditional lavvu (Sami tent) for storytelling and joik singing.
Enjoy a Sami meal, including Bidos (a reindeer stew) and other traditional dishes.
Shop for authentic Sami crafts, such as handcrafted knives and reindeer-hide boots.

Taste Arctic Food – What to Eat in Tromso

Tromso’s culinary scene is deeply connected to its Arctic surroundings, offering a delicious mix of fresh seafood, wild game, and traditional Norwegian flavors.

Must-Try Foods:

King Crab – A delicacy, served steamed or grilled with butter.
Arctic Char – A flavorful cold-water fish, similar to salmon.
Reindeer Meat – Served in hearty stews, sausages, or as a steak.
Brunost (Brown Cheese) – A caramel-like cheese, often paired with waffles.
Cloudberries and Arctic Ice Cream – A sweet treat unique to the region.

Best Places to Eat: Visit Smørtorget or Risø Kaffebar for Arctic-inspired coffee and pastries.

Plan Your Trip – How to Get to Tromso

By Air: Tromsø Airport (TOS) offers direct flights from Oslo, London, and other European cities.
By Boat: The Hurtigruten coastal ferry stops in Tromso, offering scenic voyages along Norway’s coast.
By Road: Renting a car allows travelers to explore the Lyngen Alps, fjords, and surrounding islands.

Best Time to Visit:

Winter (November to March): Best for Northern Lights, dog sledding, and whale watching.
Summer (May to July): Ideal for Midnight Sun hikes, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

Conclusion

Tromso is a beautiful Arctic city with exciting things to do in every season. In winter, you can see the Northern Lights shining in the sky, ride a dog sled across the snow, or watch whales swimming in the cold sea. In summer, the sun never sets, and you can hike, go fishing, or explore the fjords by boat. The city is also home to the Sami people, who have a long history and unique culture. You can meet reindeer, listen to Sami stories, and try their traditional food. Whether you love adventure, nature, or learning new things, Tromso has something special for you. Every visit brings new surprises, from colorful skies in winter to beautiful flowers in summer. Start your trip now and discover the magic of Tromso!

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Tromso?
Winter (November to March) is best for Northern Lights, dog sledding, and whale watching, while summer (May to July) is perfect for Midnight Sun hikes, kayaking, and nature walks.

2. Can I see the Northern Lights in Tromso year-round?
No, the Northern Lights are visible only from September to April when the skies are dark.

3. How cold does it get in Tromso?
Winter temperatures range from -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F), while summer temperatures are around 10-15°C (50-59°F).

4. Is Tromso expensive for tourists?
Yes, Norway is generally expensive. Expect to pay around $15 for a meal, $100 for tours, and $150+ per night for hotels.

5. How can I get to Tromso?
Tromso has an international airport (Tromsø Airport, TOS) with direct flights from Oslo, London, and other European cities.