Tromsø in winter
Nature or cultural experiences: which do you prefer?
In Tromsø, you don't need to choose!
Hop on a sled and explore the Arctic capital in this vibrant season.
Tromsø lies far north, which means that winter normally starts early and lasts for a long time. Many unique experiences are only available this season, including the northern lights, whale watching, skiing, and dog and reindeer sledding. Not to mention, there is plenty of culture to soak up in the capital of the Arctic!
Although Tromsø offers incredible nature all year, winter is peak season with its northern lights, whale watching, and Arctic snow!
Attractions and hotels fill up quickly in the peak season of December, January and February.
With such a long winter, a great tip is to come early in September or October, when nature is dressed in beautiful autumn colours and you may get to experience the northern lights before the coldest winter temperatures arrive. You can see the unique light and explore cool attractions in March and early April, with fewer crowds and easier access to everything you want to do.
Keep in mind that the weather in the Arctic can change quickly, especially in winter. Pack warm clothes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
The northern lights
Tromsø is located directly beneath the Aurora Oval, making it one of the world's best places to see the northern lights. Statistically, the most active northern lights seasons are autumn and spring, when the earth’s orientation towards the sun maximises the probability of solar flares interacting with the planet’s magnetic field. No matter when you visit Tromsø, the Arctic light is unforgettable!
Aurora can be a shy diva, but you can increase your chances by going northern lights hunting with a guide.
The end of November marks the start of the polar night, when the sun stays below the horizon around the clock. Although the sun never fully rises until late January, the skies may light up in myriad shades of pink, purple, and orange during the day.
The Sami people
The native Sami people have a long history with rich traditions, unique music, dress, and language. Today, the Sami are fully integrated into modern Norwegian society and are a crucial part of Tromsø's identity. Among other things, you can find both modern and traditional Sami designs in several shops in Tromsø.
Many Sami families keep the tradition of reindeer herding alive. You can join a fun ride with reindeer sledding, which is often combined with a traditional meal and a chance to learn more about Sami culture in a lavvo, a traditional Sami tent.
The Sami national day is February 6th and the week is celebrated as Sami week. Among the events is a reindeer race on Tromsø's main street, Storgata!
A lively Arctic city
Despite the darkness, Tromsø is a very warm and vibrant city with many students, thanks to being the home of the Arctic University of Norway, UiT. If you want to meet some other cheerful locals, visit the seals at the Arctic Experience Centre Polaria and explore the town’s history as a starting point for countless Arctic expeditions at the Polar Museum.
It's also worth a visit to the iconic Arctic Cathedral, which hosts a New Year’s Eve Concert every year.
Many cultural events take place in winter, including the Tromsø International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Northern Lights Festival. If you're up for a challenge, you can sign up for the Polar Night Half Marathon (imagine running under the northern lights!).
Wild adventures
Stroll the streets and see the white mountains surrounding the city or ride the cable car, Fjellheisen, 421 metres up to Storsteinen to get the best views of Tromsø – and the northern lights! You can also book a guided snowshoeing tour at the top.
From November to January, the whales swim to the fjords on the hunt for herring. Go whale watching to see orcas, humpback whales, and minke whales and feel your heart beat a little faster as they gracefully breach in the frosty air. Brim Explorer offers daily quiet whale tours on an electric vessel in the winter. November to the end of January is usually the peak season for whale watching. Be aware that the climate, hunting grounds, and weather can influence when whales appear (they are wild animals after all!).
Back on dry land, the huskies are more than happy to lead you through the winter landscape! Take in the views and be amazed by thesetough and dedicated sled dogs that thrive in Arctic conditions.
Arctic cuisine
Tromsø is very tasty! Pure and fresh ingredients such as wild game and fresh seafood are something you can expect from its rich Arctic cuisine. Make sure you taste some Atlantic cod, called skrei, stockfish, and other quality seafood served in tasty restaurants like Fiskekompaniet and Arctandria.
You can also sample tender meat from reindeer and lamb that roam freely across endless pastures and mountain plateaus. Traditional Sami food is based on local fish, game, reindeer, berries, and herbs. Immerse yourself in exotic flavours at Smak, a restaurant that focuses on locally sourced ingredients.
Tromsø is a very social city where there's always a café nearby. It is known for its record-high rate of cafés per resident. Don't go to bed early, because Tromsø is famous for its thrilling nightlife where you can dance the night away or find a chill bar, many of which are located on its main street, Storgata.
Skiing and swimming
Challenge yourself to a dip in the sea and regain your heat in the floating sauna, or jump off the high dive in the Tromsøbadet waterpark. Tromsøya island is also home to cross-country trails. Many locals ski directly to the waterpark, where you can park your skis right outside: ski and swim!
Ski touring in Tromsø
The areas surrounding Tromsø are regarded as some of the top ski touring destinations in Europe. Note that there is an avalanche risk once there is snow and steep terrain, so always go on an organised tour with local guides who know the area well.
Lyngen and Senja are the most popular places for an off-piste adventure, but the lesser-known islands of Kvaløya and Ringvassøy also offer skiing with views of Arctic fjord landscapes!
Beyond Tromsø
If you feel like avoiding the crowds, you don't need to go far outside the city. The idyllic island of Sommarøy is just an hour's drive away. This fishing village offers guided activities such as sea safaris and kayaking.
Bear in mind that driving in winter in Northern Norway can be challenging, and is only for experienced drivers.
Extend your Northern Norwegian adventure by heading further north to Alta. Visit the Northern Light Cathedral and see 7,000-year-old UNESCO-listed rock art paintings. Treat yourself to a memorable stay at the combined igloo hotel/wilderness lodge Sorrisniva or the boutique hotel Trasti & Trine.
A cruise with Hurtigruten is also a great way to explore more of the north in comfort.
Sustainable Destination
The wildlife and nature in the Arctic are majestic yet vulnerable. Tromsø has been certified as a Sustainable Destination, which means that the industry is doing its best to reduce the negative impact of tourism on the environment and to provide experiences more sustainably.
Caring for the environment is everyone's responsibility and all guests are encouraged to be considerate during their stay in Tromsø.
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