I’ve led tours around Norway for 10+ years, and I can tell you that there is one indisputable item on every tourist’s bucket list, no matter where they come from: to see the Northern Lights – and I can’t say I blame them.

So you can’t pronounce Aurora Borealis; that doesn’t matter because you’ve feasted your eyes on the mesmerizing lights brought to you by the internet, and now you’re intent on getting there. Well, I’m here to tell you where to find them: Tromsø, the largest city in Northern Norway and our very own Arctic winter wonderland.

With a cosy, inviting winter charm, Tromsø offers endless winter activities, from skiing to viewing Arctic wildlife, making it the best choice for a winter travel destination in the world – and that’s a local’s promise.

Getting to Tromsø

Your best shot at exploring the magic of Tromsø is through air travel, flying into the Tromso Airport, Lagnes (T0S). The airport offers convenient connections to Oslo and most major European cities. However, if you’re planning your trip during Norway’s peak winter months, i.e.November to March, book your flights at least 3-4 months in advance. Scan for tickets here.

It’s no secret that the winter time is the best time to catch the Tromsø Northern lights, so you will see an increase in prices and more limited tickets available if you don’t book early.

You’ve got several transportation options to get you to the city’s centre, which will take you only about 15 minutes:

• The Airport Express Bus or the ‘Flybussen’, the most cost-effective option
• Local bus routes from the airport (take route 42!)
• A Taxi from right outside your terminal

Where to Stay in Tromsø

The same story of booking early applies to accommodation in Tromso, especially during the winter season. Here are my top three options based on your budget:

• Budget: The Smarthotel Tromsø is affordable with a very convenient location.
• Mid-range/high-end: Scandic Ishavshotel, Clarion Hotel the Edge, and Radisson Blu are more costly but well worth it if within your budget, some rooms come with spectacular harbour views.

If you’re looking for unique accommodation that offers you the extraordinary experience of viewing the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed, check out the Aera Panoramic Glass Lodge or the less expensive Aurora Crystal Lavvo.

Tips Before Your Visit

Be aware of ‘Polar Night’, which is a November-January phenomenon in Norway. Days go by with no sunrise, but rather around 3-4 hours of blue twilight. Given the lack of sun, expect incredibly cold weather and slippery roads, so pack many thermal layers, thick winter boots, and ice grips for your shoes. If you need other packing tips, check out the Complete Norway Packing List.

As for the Northern Lights, you should know that catching them will depend on your luck and the weather’s mood. So, to cross this item off your bucket list, stay at least 3 nights to increase your chances of catching clear skies.

The Best Spots Around Tromsø

In between snowshoeing and getting into thrilling activities around the city, there are a few spots around Tromsø that will make the trip incredibly memorable.

• The Tromsø Harbor. Watch as all your troubles disappear with the movement of the fishing boats to the backdrop of the snow-covered mountains.
• The Polar Museum and the Arctic University Museum. Leave Norway having gained invaluable knowledge of the history of this ancient Arctic land, its various polar expeditions, and a rich understanding of the Sami culture.
• The Arctic Cathedral. Whether visiting this site is actually worth your time remains debatable amongst tourists, but hey, the opinion you form on its modern architecture will be a conversation starter.
• Storgata Street. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing and Instagram-worthy, but it also features tons of cafes and shops for all of your nutrition and gift-buying needs.

👉 For more things to do in Tromsø see my Tromsø City Guide

Tromsø’s Top Winter Activities

Tromsø’s known for its top-tier winter activities, so here’s an extensive list of the stuff you should definitely take advantage of.

• Northern Lights Viewing. Book a guided tour to view the mesmerizing sky, or head to spots like Prestvannet Lake and Telegrafbukta Beach to check them out on your own.
• Tromsø Husky Sledding. Book a daytime or evening passenger tour and meet Tromsø’s local huskies on a 3-4 hour ride of your life. You can also self-drive your sled!
• Whale Watching. If you’re in Tromsø between late October to January, you have the chance to catch some orcas or humpbacks from Lapland in the Arctic!
• Fjellheisen Gondola. Another activity that offers sensational views of Tromsø from the Storsteinen Mountain (pro tip: go during Twilight hours!)
• Reindeer and Sami Experiences. Learn about the Sami culture in traditional camps while feeding the exotic reindeer of the Arctic.
• Sauna and Polar Plunge. I mean, this is a quintessential Nordic experience you can’t miss: visit the Sauna Pust Tromsø in the harbour for a cleansing Polar Plunge.

As for day-specific trips, here’s a different set of views you can encounter:

• Kvaløya and Sommarøy Islands: Experience Arctic road trips featuring fjords, fishing villages, and snowy beaches.
• Tromsø Ice Domes: Mesmerizing ice sculptures, snow hotels, and Arctic dining experiences.
• Senja Island: One of Norway’s most scenic and picture-worthy islands. Read more at Visit Senja.

Finally, here’s a list of things to do when the weather outside simply does not allow for outdoor winter adventures (and trust me, that does happen):

• Tromsøbadet Spa and Vulkana Arctic Spa Boat – treat yourself to an indoor spa day while not missing out on the views from the harbour.
• Mack Brewery for tours and tastings. Get a taste of a delicious blend of Tromsø’s best beers.
• Tromsø Library. Not only is the building beautiful, but it is also warm and full of cultural knowledge.

The Food and Beverage Style of Tromsø

The best part of touring any country is discovering their national cuisine. Here’s a list of my favourite spots:

Cafes:

• Kaffeebonna: Cinnamon buns and great coffee.

• Risø: Sourdough bread and breakfast sandwiches.

Restaurants:

• Skarven Kro: Unique dishes like whale steak and goat.

• Fiskekompaniet: A seafood experience by the harbour.

• Full Steam Restaurant: Fish, reindeer, whale, salmon and other traditional dishes

Bars:

• Misfit Tiki Bar: A great cocktail spot

• Bryggeri 13 Micro Brewery: A huge selection of beers

Book Your Guide to Tromsø Now

If Santa’s winter wonderland were to exist in real-time, Tromsø would be it. It offers stunning views from wherever you are, exhilarating activities, and nature’s incredible phenomenon, the Northern Lights. However, keep in mind that Tromsø can get quite busy during the winter months. Booking early is highly recommended to secure your spot and make the most of your visit.

If planning a trip to Norway seems daunting to you, you can always seek my professional help! My name’s Pål and I can show you around Tromsø through a local’s eye and experience. I can even extend that tour to other parts of Norway. Book with me now!