Tromsø travel guide

Summer view of Tromso, Norway.
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Introduction to Tromsø

Tromsø, known for its incredible Arctic Cathedral, The Polar Museum, and Tromso Wilderness Center - Dog sledding, is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This municipality in Troms og Finnmark, Norway, has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 77.5 thousand people, Tromsø is truly one of the main highlights of Norway.

Easily accessible from the Tromsø , Langnes airport, Tromsø is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Norway. Travelers looking to experience the best of Norway often choose to stay in Tromsø.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the town of Tromsø below!

History of Tromsø

Known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic', Tromsø is a city rich in history. Its origins date back to the end of the Ice Age, although it was only officially recognized as a city in 1794.

In the early 1800s, Tromsø emerged as a major Arctic fishing port, with the export of dried fish and seal oil contributing significantly to its growth. The city also played a critical role in numerous Arctic expeditions during the 19th and early 20th centuries, serving as a starting point for various explorers.

The iconic Tromsø Cathedral was constructed in 1861, becoming a symbol of the city's prosperity.

During World War II, Tromsø served as the administrative center for Norway's free forces, remaining unscathed from the conflict.

Today, Tromsø is a thriving, modern city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, magnificent natural beauty and as a prime location for viewing the Northern Lights.

Top services in Tromsø

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Tromsø, Norway. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 319 airlines that fly to Norway. Browse the 116 top-rated tours available to you in Tromsø. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Tromsø.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Tromsø, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Tromsø on your vacation in Norway.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Tromsø from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of Tromsø!

Best time to visit Tromsø

The best time to explore Tromsø, Norway largely depends on the experiences you seek. For witnessing the Northern Lights, the dark winter months from late September to late March offer the highest chances. However, prepare for cold temperatures ranging from -4°C to -6°C. Conversely, if you prefer milder weather and endless daylight, the Midnight Sun season from late May to late July is ideal, where temperatures can reach up to 15°C. During this period, outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing are popular. The city's main cultural event, the Midnight Sun Marathon, also takes place in June, attracting numerous visitors. For lower crowd levels and slightly warmer weather, consider visiting in shoulder seasons like late spring (April to May) or early autumn (August to September). Whatever your choice, each season in Tromsø offers a unique blend of experiences, ensuring a memorable trip.

Weather in Tromsø

Tromsø, located in the far north of Norway, experiences a Subarctic climate, with long, cold winters and brief, mild summers. The city's winter, extending from late November to late March, is marked by heavy snowfall and temperatures typically ranging from -4°C to 1°C. However, thanks to the Gulf Stream, Tromsø's average temperature is milder than other locations at the same latitude.

From late May to late July, Tromsø experiences the 'Midnight Sun,' a period of 24-hour daylight. During this time, temperatures typically range between 8°C and 15°C. On the contrary, from late November to mid-January, the city undergoes the 'Polar Night,' a period of darkness where the sun does not rise above the horizon. It's important for travelers to prepare accordingly with appropriate clothing and gear for these extreme light variations.

Local tip for visiting Tromsø

Embarking on a trip to Tromsø, Norway, promises an unforgettable journey full of breathtaking Arctic landscapes and rich Nordic culture. However, an insider tip from locals might add an extra sparkle to your visit. Instead of booking the popular and often crowded 'Northern Lights tour,' locals recommend self-driving to the nearby island of Kvaløya. This island, just a short drive from the city, is renowned for its wide-open spaces and minimal light pollution, making it an ideal spot for witnessing the magical Aurora Borealis. You can rent equipment from local shops to keep warm and comfortable while awaiting the light show. This way, you'll get to experience the Northern Lights in a more serene and intimate setting, just as the locals do. Remember, the best time to witness this natural spectacle is during the winter months, from late September to early April. Embracing this local tip will surely enhance your Tromsø experience and give you a taste of authentic Norwegian life.

Learn more about Norway

There are many reasons to visit the town of Tromsø, but a trip to Norway needs no explanation.

Exploring Norway, which spans 385,207 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Norway offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Arctic Cathedral, The Polar Museum, and the Tromso Wilderness Center - Dog sledding, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Norway.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Norway.

What to see in Tromsø

Tromso harbour at sunset, Norway.

Tromsø has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the town.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the town of Tromsø.

Top attractions in Tromsø

Home to plenty of top attractions, Tromsø is more than just a wonderful town in Norway. Tromsø is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Norway.

One fascinating sight in Tromsø is the unforgettable Arctic Cathedral. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the town, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Tromsø.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Norway, check out our list of top attractions in Tromsø below. Discover the best places to visit in Tromsø, including the fascinating Arctic Cathedral, The Polar Museum, Tromso Wilderness Center - Dog sledding, The Arctic University Museum of Norway, and Prestvannet.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Tromsø.

Things to do in Tromsø

Bridge of city Tromso, Norway.

Enrich your travel experience in Tromsø by joining tours and activities. Tromsø offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the town.

Discover the most popular experiences in Tromsø below.

Most popular experiences in Tromsø

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the town of Tromsø.

Tromsø offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Bus Tours, Half-day Tours, and Adventure Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Norway.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Tromsø by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Tromsø

Travelers in Tromsø can choose from 17 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Activities is the answer.

The most popular tour in Tromsø is the fantastic Northern Lights Private tour with your special ones - Greenlander. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Tromsø one of the best travel destinations in Norway.

Tromsø also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable The Paris of the North: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Tromsø is the cheapest tour in the town, and is a popular Archaeology Tour. This experience costs around 7 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Tromsø. This Archaeology Tour is available in 1 language: English. Around 5 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 4 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Tromsø and book a top-rated tour in the town. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Tromsø below.

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Search for things to do in Tromsø

Discover the best things to do in Tromsø. Choose from 116 fantastic tours and activities available in the town.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Tromsø. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Tromsø

Tromsø, Norway's Arctic capital, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that showcases the rich bounty of the Northern seas and lands. Gastronomes can explore the city's traditional dishes in a variety of settings, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants. Seafood lovers must try 'Tromsø Rakfisk', a local specialty made of fermented fish, often served with flatbread and sour cream. The city's dining districts are scattered throughout, but Storgata street is particularly renowned for its diverse food offerings. Here, you'll find the best places to eat in Tromsø, serving everything from reindeer steak to Arctic char, reflecting the city's deep-rooted Sami heritage. For an elevated dining experience, visit 'Emmas Drømmekjøkken,' one of Tromsø's most prestigious restaurants, known for its exquisite seafood-based menu. Don't forget to pair your meal with some locally brewed Mack beer, the world's northernmost brewery. Lastly, a trip to Tromsø's bustling fish market, 'Fiskeriet', is a must for seafood enthusiasts. It's not only a great place to buy fresh catch but also a chance to taste the day's special prepared right on the spot.

Best shopping in Tromsø

When you're in Tromsø, shopping is a delightful experience that offers a blend of local craftsmanship, distinct fashion, and unique souvenirs. One of the best places to go shopping in Tromsø is Storgata, the city's main street lined with various shops, boutiques and galleries. Here you'll find everything from locally designed clothing to handcrafted Sami jewellery. Don't miss the Tromsø City Centre, a bustling shopping mall with a wide selection of stores and eateries.

If you're seeking a more traditional experience, visit the Tromsø Market. This vibrant open-air market is a haven for local produce and handcrafted goods, perfect for picking up authentic Norwegian keepsakes. For the adventurous shopper, the Jekta Storsenter, the biggest shopping centre in Northern Norway, is a must-visit. With over 130 shops, it offers a variety of fashion, technology, and homewares.

Remember, shops typically open at 10 am and close around 6 pm from Monday to Saturday, with reduced hours on Sunday. Credit cards are widely accepted. Happy shopping in Tromsø!

Best Free Things to do in Tromsø

Tromsø, Norway, a city set against a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains and shimmering northern lights, offers a host of costless experiences. Among the best free things to do in Tromsø is a visit to the Tromsø Cathedral. As the only Norwegian cathedral made of wood, it's a distinctive piece of architecture with a significant historical backdrop. If nature is more your calling, head to the Prestvannet Lake. This enchanting natural reservoir transforms into a spectacular bird-watching site during summer and a serene snowy haven in winter. Tromsø's public parks, like Charlottenlund Recreational Park, are also enticing with their lush greenery and tranquil surroundings. For art enthusiasts, the Tromsø Center for Contemporary Art offers free entry to its captivating exhibits. Lastly, don't miss the chance to see the Northern Lights. Although sightings are never guaranteed, the mesmerizing light show is a free and priceless spectacle if you're lucky enough to catch it. With such a variety of activities, Tromsø proves that you don't need to spend to enjoy its rich cultural and natural offerings.

Vacation packages in Tromsø

City of Tromso in the winter

The best and easiest way to visit Tromsø is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Norway.

Booking a vacation package to Tromsø means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Tromsø to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Tromsø is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 6 unique vacation packages to Tromsø, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the town of Tromsø.

Popular types of vacations in Tromsø

The most popular way to experience Tromsø is by visiting the town as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Norway. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Tromsø on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Norway, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Norway, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Tromsø, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Tromsø below.

Top vacation packages in Tromsø

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Norway. In fact, you can choose from as many as 6 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Tromsø, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Norway.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Tromsø, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Norway Road Trip Vacation in Tromsø and spend as little as 644 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Tromsø, including the fantastic Tromso southern beach, The Polar Museum, Tromso Wilderness Center - Dog sledding, Prestvannet, and Arctic Cathedral.

Get more Tromsø vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Norway that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Tromsø

Discover and compare 6 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful town of Tromsø.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Tromsø get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Norway. Your customized holiday package to Tromsø is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Tromsø

To get to the town of Tromsø the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Norway can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Tromsø by booking flights with any of the 18 airlines that offer direct flights to Tromsø , Langnes airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Tromsø , Langnes airport are United Airlines, Air China, Turkish Airlines, Azul, and Delta Air Lines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Tromsø.

To reach the town of Tromsø, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Tromsø , Langnes airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Tromsø, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Tromsø , Langnes airport and Tromsø below.

Find cheap flights to Tromsø

Photo of Northern lights in the sky and triangle cloth tent with hot air balloon - Tromso, Norway

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Tromsø, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Norway. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Tromsø, Norway, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Tromsø costs around 31 EUR and is offered by the airline Wizz Air. The flight leaves on May 11 at 3 and departs from Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa airport in Gdańsk, Poland.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Tromsø cost approximately 67 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on February 17 and the return flight is scheduled on February 27. The flight time is around 1 hour per way.

The return flight is operated by Bergen Airport, Flesland.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Norway and the town of Tromsø from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Tromsø

Travelers visiting Tromsø in Norway can fly to Tromsø , Langnes airport directly from 1418 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Tromsø , Langnes airport and the town of Tromsø in Norway depart from Tromsø , Langnes airport in Tromsø, Norway, Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica, and Cochin International airport in Kochi, India.

Travelers can fly to Norway by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Tromsø; from 5 weekly flight(s) from Kingston; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kochi.

The airline that operates most flights to Norway is Lanmei Airlines. Lanmei Airlines offers 13 scheduled flight routes to Norway.

Discover the most popular flights to Tromsø below. Click to view flights to Tromsø, Norway from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Tromsø

Photo of sledding with husky dogs in Tromso, Norway.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as Tromsø is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Tromsø usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Tromsø offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Tromsø and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Tromsø planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Norway can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Tromsø. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Tromsø.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Tromsø in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Tromsø

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Tromsø provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Tromsø. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Tromsø

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Tromsø for the unique experience they provide.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Tromsø provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Tromsø are created equal, finding the best in the town often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Tromsø.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Tromsø. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the town of Tromsø on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the town of Tromsø that match the information provided.

Car rental in Tromsø

Photo of cable car above Tromso city with the bridge and Arctic Cathedral on background, Norway

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Tromsø. Tromsø has 5 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Tromsø start from 23.88 EUR per day or 167.13 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Toyota Corolla Aut.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Tromsø, starting from 22.74 EUR per day or 159.2 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Toyota Aygo.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Tromsø, Norway, below.

Search for car rental in Tromsø

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful town of Tromsø. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Tromsø, Norway, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Tromsø

Tromsø, located in the northern part of Norway, offers a variety of transport options for both locals and tourists.

The city's public transportation system includes buses and ferries, operated by Troms Fylkestrafikk. Buses are frequent and cover most areas of the city, making them an efficient and cost-effective mode of transport. Ferries, on the other hand, provide scenic routes to the surrounding islands.

For those who prefer a more personal mode of transportation, taxis are readily available. Tromsø Taxi and Din Taxi are two reliable companies operating in the city. Rental cars are also an option, with several companies offering a range of vehicles. This could be an ideal choice for those wanting to explore the wider region at their own pace.

Lastly, Tromsø offers a unique transportation experience with its cable car, Fjellheisen. It offers an unmatched view of the city, mountains, and fjords. However, it's not just a tourist attraction, it's also used by locals as a means of transportation.

Popular destinations to visit after Tromsø

Beautiful winter landscape with cracks on the surface of the blue ice in frozen lake - Tromso, Norway.

The town of Tromsø is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Norway. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Norway has it all.

Norway is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Norway that are as magical as the town of Tromsø. The most popular travel destinations in Norway are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Norway

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Norway. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Tromsø

Cathedral of Our Lady in Tromso, Polar Norway.

A taste of Norway through a visit to Tromsø can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Tromsø to another remarkable destination in Norway.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the town of Tromsø to other spectacular locations in Norway, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Tromsø

Travelers in Norway can catch flights to domestic airports in Kirkenes, Narvik, Bodø, Bergen, and Alta. Domestic flights in Norway are operated by 4 airlines: Widerøe, SAS, Norwegian, and DAT Danish Air Transport. There are around 18 scheduled flight routes operating to Tromsø on a weekly basis.

From Tromsø, travelers can book scheduled flights to 14 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Tromsø depart to many top-rated destinations in Norway and are offered by Widerøe, SAS, and Norwegian.

Search domestic flights from Tromsø

Traveling to another city or region in Norway? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Tromsø to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Norway on the selected dates.

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