What to do in Tromsø?
Tromsø, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Arctic"
Tromsø truly embodies its title as the Gateway to the Arctic in every aspect. It has a rich heritage of being the starting point for numerous Arctic expeditions led by renowned explorers like Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen. As a result, Tromsø has solidified itself as a vital hub for trading, hunting, and fishing in the northern regions. Today, it proudly holds the distinction of being the world's northernmost city, thanks to its exceptional accessibility.
With a population exceeding 50,000, Tromsø boasts its own well-connected airport offering multiple connections across Europe. This, combined with a significant English-speaking population, contributes to its widespread popularity as the ultimate choice for embarking on Arctic adventures. Tromsø serves as a convenient and comfortable base for exploring the Arctic, catering to the needs of adventurous individuals seeking unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes.
Whether you're drawn to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, delve into the region's history and culture, or engage in thrilling Arctic activities, Tromsø has it all. The city offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring its fascinating museums and architectural wonders to indulging in local cuisine and immersing yourself in the Arctic wilderness through wildlife safaris, dog sledding, and more.
Tromsø's appeal as a popular destination for Arctic exploration is undeniable. Its strategic location, combined with modern amenities and a welcoming community, makes it an ideal starting point for unforgettable Arctic adventures.
What to do in Tromsø?
Tromsø offers a variety of exciting activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some popular things to do:
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Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Tromsø is renowned for its prime location to witness the spectacular Northern Lights. Join a guided tour or venture out on your own to catch a glimpse of this mesmerizing natural phenomenon.
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Arctic Cathedral (Tromsdalen Church): Visit the iconic Arctic Cathedral, known for its striking modern architecture and stunning views of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords.
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Tromsø Bridge: Take a stroll across the Tromsø Bridge, which connects the city centre to the mainland. Enjoy panoramic views of the city, mountains, and fjords as you walk.
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Polaria: Explore Polaria, an Arctic-themed museum and aquarium. Discover fascinating exhibits, including interactive displays on Arctic wildlife and climate change. Don't miss the daily seal feeding sessions.
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Tromsø Museum: Learn about the history, culture, and natural environment of Northern Norway at the Tromsø Museum. It features exhibitions on Sami culture, archaeology, and the region's unique flora and fauna.
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Fjellheisen Cable Car: Take a cable car ride up Mount Storsteinen to enjoy breathtaking views of Tromsø and its surrounding islands. Enjoy a meal at the mountain-top restaurant and soak in the panoramic scenery.
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Arctic Wildlife and Fjord sightseeing: Embark on a wildlife tour to observe the native wildlife, such as reindeer, eagles, seals, and sometimes even whales. Experienced guides will lead you through the Arctic wilderness for an unforgettable adventure.
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Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of dog sledding through the snow-covered landscapes. Guided tours offer a chance to drive your own team of huskies or sit back and enjoy the ride.
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Sami Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich Sami culture by visiting a Sami reindeer camp. Learn about their traditional way of life, enjoy Sami cuisine, and participate in reindeer sledding or traditional Sami crafts.
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Coastal and Fjord Cruises: Take a boat excursion to explore the stunning fjords and coastal landscapes surrounding Tromsø. Enjoy scenic cruises, spot wildlife, and marvel at the majestic Arctic scenery.
These are just a few highlights of what Tromsø has to offer. The city is also home to vibrant restaurants, cosy cafes, and a lively nightlife scene, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.
See the Northern Lights
A bucket-list experience
Tromsø, often hailed as the capital of the Arctic, holds a prominent position among the world's best destinations for experiencing the enchanting Northern Lights. This ethereal phenomenon, reminiscent of scenes from a fantastical movie, ranks high on the bucket lists of countless travellers who flock to the city during the winter season.
Following the departure of the midnight sun and the arrival of longer nights, the Northern Lights make their grand appearance. As the chilling winds sweep through the region, bidding farewell to the seagulls, these mysterious and magnificent lights unfold across the nocturnal canvas in a mesmerizing dance, evoking a sense of life and mirroring the brilliance of the sun.
Embarking on an extraordinary journey, guided by local experts and leveraging the latest forecasting technology, is the key to chasing the elusive Aurora Borealis. Venturing into the untouched Arctic wilderness, far away from the city lights, unveils the perfect vantage point to witness this natural marvel. As you gaze upward, the aurora performs its ethereal ballet, casting its shimmering glow upon you. Allow the captivating magic of the Northern Lights to embrace your spirit and etch memories that will endure a lifetime.
Tromsø, with its strategic location and expertise in Northern Lights tourism, provides an ideal setting for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Arctic skies and let the dance of the Northern Lights leave an indelible mark on your soul!
Our Northern Lights tours
Explore the Arctic Wildlife and Fjords
Immersing in Nature, Wildlife, and Local History
An Arctic Fjord and Wildlife safari on Kvaløya and Sommarøy is a fantastic way to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of the region and observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. Kvaløya is an island located near Tromsø and Sommarøy is a picturesque fishing village situated on the western coast of Kvaløya. Here's what you can expect from such a safari:
Scenic Drives
The journey itself is a treat as you drive along the coastal roads, passing by majestic fjords, snow-capped mountains, and pristine beaches. The landscapes are simply stunning, and you'll have numerous opportunities to stop and admire the panoramic views.
Arctic Wildlife
Kvaløya and its surrounding areas are home to a variety of wildlife species. Keep an eye out for reindeer, moose, and arctic foxes roaming in their natural habitat. Additionally, you might be fortunate enough to spot whales, including orcas (killer whales) and humpback whales, as they migrate through the fjords.
Birdwatching
The region is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Look out for sea eagles soaring above the fjords, as well as puffins, guillemots, and cormorants nesting along the coast. The cliffs of Sommarøy are particularly known for their vibrant bird colonies.
Cultural Exploration
In addition to the natural wonders, you can also explore the local culture and heritage of the region. Visit small fishing villages, interact with friendly locals, and learn about their way of life. You may even get a chance to sample delicious seafood delicacies.
Overall, an Arctic Fjord and Wildlife safari on Kvaløya and Sommarøy promise a remarkable adventure filled with breathtaking scenery, fascinating wildlife encounters, and a deep connection with nature.
Our sightseeing tours
Snowshoe hiking
The Arctic region offers vast, untouched landscapes
Snowshoeing in the Arctic can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. The Arctic region offers vast, untouched landscapes covered in pristine snow, providing a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of this remote and icy environment.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Tromsø region with an exhilarating snowshoeing adventure. Nestled within the Arctic Circle, Tromsø boasts magnificent winter landscapes that are just waiting to be explored. Immerse yourself in a world of pristine snow-covered mountains, enchanting fjords, and awe-inspiring forests as you embark on an unforgettable snowshoeing journey.
As you venture through the Tromsø region on your snowshoes, keep your eyes peeled for Arctic wildlife encounters. Majestic reindeer, elusive foxes, and a variety of seabirds may cross your path, offering glimpses into the vibrant ecosystem of the Arctic.
The Arctic weather can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful, so it's essential to come prepared. Dress in warm, layered clothing to protect against the cold, and wear sturdy, waterproof boots for comfortable and dry snowshoeing. Our tours provide essential safety gear, including headlamps for night excursions, ensuring your comfort and peace of mind.
One of the highlights of snowshoeing in Tromsø is the opportunity to witness the captivating Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Imagine snowshoeing under the starry night sky, with the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights dancing above you. It's a surreal experience that will leave you in awe of nature's wonders.
To make the most of your adventure, we recommend joining one of our expertly guided tours. Our experienced guides are well-versed in the region's natural wonders and will take you on tailored snowshoeing excursions suited to your skill level. They will lead you to hidden gems and ensure your safety throughout the tour.
Join us for an extraordinary snowshoeing adventure in Tromsø, where you'll be captivated by the Arctic's untouched landscapes.
Our Snowshoeing tours
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Experience Tromsø with an E-bike
Experience Tromsø like never before with our E-bike tours
Tromsø is a vibrant and captivating city with a wealth of history and culture to explore. And what better way to discover its hidden treasures than on an e-bike? With the assistance of our comfortable e-bikes, effortlessly navigate the city's hilly terrain and cover more ground than you would on foot.
Embark on a journey through Tromsø and uncover why it's often dubbed the "Paris of the North" and known as the Gateway to the Arctic Ocean. Ride along the city's charming streets and witness its iconic sights while learning about its international significance as a trading hub for fishing, hunting, research, and Arctic expeditions.
