Why: In some places, such as Tromsø, local buses can become overcrowded when large numbers of tourists use them to travel to and from the airport. These services are also an important part of everyday life for locals commuting to work and school. Airport express buses are designed with travellers in mind, with extra space for luggage, so you can keep your suitcase out of the way and leave the local buses for those who rely on them for their daily commute.
Arctic winter tourist in Northern Norway?
Here are the dos and don'ts
Airport transportation:
❌ Don't: Bring large suitcases on the local bus from the airport.
✅ Do: Use the dedicated airport express bus or a taxi when it's available.
Respect the locals:
❌ Don't: Wander onto private property, into people's gardens or around their homes. And don't take pictures of anyone without their consent.
✅ Do: Be respectful of the people who live in the places you visit.
Why: That charming little village by the fjord may look like a film set, but it isn't. Remember that people live and work there. Be considerate, respect their privacy and treat their homes and properties as you would want visitors to treat yours.
Walking on ice and snow
❌ Don't: Slip and fall on icy paths.
✅ Do: Use ice grips or traction spikes on your shoes when walking on snowy or icy surfaces.
Why: They're a simple and practical way to stay on your feet during the winter months, and they're widely avaiable in shops, especially in Northern Norway.
Just…
…remember to take them off before entering a building! The spikes can ruin floors.
Why: Tourists are often suprised by rapid weather changes in Norway. Too often, people have to be rescued while out in nature because of a lack of experience and proper equipment. Dress in layers when necessary, and remember: Soft wool is the perfect innermost layer, not just in winter, but also in autumn and spring – sometimes even in summer! And make sure you always have rain- and windproof gear available.
Walk on the path
❌ Don't: Walk in the middle of busy roads.
✅ Do: Use designated pavements, footpaths and walking trails whenever possible. Look for the blue sign!
Why: Norway is made for walking, and most towns and cities have pavements or paths alongside the roads. They're not only a safer option, they also help keep traffic flowing. Walking in the roads can be dangerous and may cause unnecessary traffic congestion.
No paths where you're heading?
Make sure you always walk on the left side of the road!
Crossing the road
❌ Don't: Cross the road wherever you happen to be.
✅ Do: Use a designated pedestrian crossing. Look for the pedestrian crossing sign and the white stripes on the road.
Why: Crossing at designated points makes you more predictable to drivers and, most importantly, keeps you safer. And: In Norway, drivers actually stop for you when you cross at the right place!
Winter driving
❌ Don't: Drive in winter without experience in driving in winter conditions.
✅ Do: Use public transport, a taxi or consider hiring a car with a driver.
Why: Slippery, icy roads, narrow lanes, darkness and heavy snow make driving in winter very difficult and dangerous. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in accidents caused by unexperienced winter drivers. If you lack experience, you can cause dangerous situations for both you and others.
Safe sightseeing
❌ Don't: Book an activity, a remote hotel or set out to see an attraction without checking out proper transportation opportunities.
✅ Do: Join a guided tour or check Entur for timetables for public transportation. PS! The most comfortable way to get from Tromsø city centre to the Fjellheisen Cable Car is to use the green shuttle bus!
Why: Again, it's not recommended to drive on snowy roads if you lack experience. Besides, the attraction or activity you're heading to may not have designated parking spots. Always check if there's a shuttle bus for your activity, or if transportation is included. With some planning, public transport can also be a good option.
Light up in the dark
❌ Don't: Make yourself invisible.
✅ Do: Use reflective wear!
Why: When winter approaches in the north, the days become shorter and nights longer – it's time for polar nights! With less light it's important to be visible for cars. Always use reflective wear when outside in the dark.
Guided tours
❌ Don't: Ignore your guide.
✅ Do: Put your phone away, pay attention and listen to instructions!
Why: Guides don't just share interesting stories and local knowledge – they often provide important information about safety, local conditions and guidelines you need to follow. Listening could make your experience both safer and more enjoyable.
Drone flying
❌ Don't: Fly your drone everywhere.
✅ Do: Read up on drone rules and regulations. Even where drone flying is legal, it might not be ok to fly it. Respect people's privacy, and don't fly drones close to birds and wildlife.
Why: If you break the rules, your drone can end up in the drone prison displayed in the Tromsø airport (pictured above). Additionally, extremely pricy fines, and even prison, can await you. Please note: All drone flying in Tromsø and Bodø is prohibited, as is the case in many locations in Lofoten.
Enjoy your stay!
And most importantly: Enjoy Norway! Be curious, make new friends, and remember that you are visiting somebody's home.
Get ready
Read up on more important information before your trip!
