Arctic Adventure: Top 6 Things to Do in Tromsø, Norway

Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” the Norwegian city of Tromsø is a haven for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike. From the stunning northern lights to vibrant cultural experiences, Tromsø offers plenty of activities for any visitor to enjoy. This post lists some of the top things to do in Tromsø, Norway.

Top things to do in Tromsø, Norway

Here are some of my favorite things to do in Tromsø!

Chase the northern lights

Seeing the northern lights is a major bucket list activity you can do in Norway, and Tromsø is a top destination for this. There are plenty of outfitters that offer Northern Lights tours during the peak viewing season, which lasts from October to March.

For more professional-looking photos, check out my guide to photographing the northern lights!

Learn about Sami culture and hang out with reindeer

The Sami people are indigenous to Northern Norway. Raising reindeer is a major part of Sami culture. Some herders offer visitors a unique chance to visit their reindeer herds and learn a bit about the Sami people at the same time.

Embark on a fjord cruise

A fjord cruise is a great way to take in the Arctic scenery around Tromsø. Visitors can sail past rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque fishing villages while keeping an eye out for wildlife such as seals, eagles, and even whales. In my opinion, the coastal views in Norway have to be seen to be believed, so this is definitely one of my top Tromsø activities.

Go dog sledding

Another unique outdoor activity you can experience in Tromsø is dog sledding. Visitors can experience the thrill of gliding through pristine Arctic landscapes while pulled by a team of adorable huskies. Dog sledding offers a unique and exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tromsø!

Visit the Arctic Cathedral

The Arctic Cathedral is a striking landmark in Tromsø. In addition to seeing it from the outside, visitors can also explore the interior of this iconic church, which is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to catch a concert here and experience the building’s remarkable acoustics.

Experience the midnight sun

In contrast to the dark winter months, Tromsø experiences the midnight sun during the summer. Between late May and mid-July, the sun remains visible above the horizon for 24 hours a day. You can take advantage of the endless daylight by doing outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, or simply taking a leisurely walk along the city’s waterfront.

Where to stay in Tromsø

There aren’t too many inexpensive hostels in Tromsø, but budget travelers might find the Tromsø Activities Hostel to their liking.

Travelers looking for a more upscale experience might want to check out Clarion Hotel The Edge, which has a unique design and is home to a popular skybar.

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Whether you are looking for cultural experiences or adrenaline-inducing adventure, there is so much to see and do in Tromsø! I hope this post gives you some good ideas to get started. Enjoy your time visiting this exciting part of Norway!

For more to do in Norway, check out this post on my favorite bucket list experiences you can have in this beautiful country.

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