“It always looks different. The light changes, the sea changes ...”
Although she travels the globe and works with famous musicians in places like L.A. and New York, Ida Tolou still thinks Tromsø is an incredibly exciting city.
“There is in fact lots happening in this small place. There are many events and people are really involved. It really feels a bit like a big city.”
Ida Tolou
Musician
Tromsø's best cultural spots
with artist Ida Tolou
“Lots of things there have helped me develop as a solo performer, and as an artist.”
“I need to have a key for my 'work' in the church, right?”
Every year, more than 500 concerts are held here. Enjoy midnight sun concerts during summer or northern lights concerts during winter.
“When I was working here and the church was empty, I used to stand here and practice singing a little on my own.”
Experience Ida's beautiful singing further down the article!
We cross the bridge that connects the two centres of Tromsø and proceed to Ida's second cultural highlight.
Scandic Ishavshotel has an excellent location on the harbour in the city centre. From here, you can appreciate the Arctic Cathedral from a different angle.
If you're lucky, you might also get to see the northern lights.
“It's very cool that the hotel looks like a ship.”
We join Ida in the elevator up to the hotel suites, where she recorded her first music video.
Although almost all the rooms have stunning views of the Arctic landscape, a suite must of course have a little extra luxury.
“Here, you have a perfect view of the mountains. You almost get the sensation that you are completely alone here, too, as if you are standing on a mountain in a way.”
Make sure to rise and shine early! The breakfast at Scandic Ishavshotel has been named the best hotel breakfast in the county for many years!
Tromsø is often called "the Paris of the North" and "the Gateway to the Arctic Ocean", due to the city's history as a hub for international trade.
“The fishermen used to sail to Tromsø on their boats, bringing with them clothes for their ladies, and exclusive fabrics from abroad.”
At Skirri, we are welcomed with a big smile.
As usual, Ida sets her sights on one of the window tables.
“This is actually one of my favourite dishes, one that Grandma always used to cook.”
Ida is served steamed halibut, with a butter sauce, accompanied by crispy bacon, trout roe, glazed vegetables, and grilled fennel.
“They put heart and soul, and all their knowledge and thought into the food here.”
After a thoroughly Northern Norwegian meal, we say goodbye to Ida – but your journey does not have to end here!
Scroll below to see all of Ida's recommendations on what to see, what to eat, and where to stay in Tromsø.