TROMSØ
in Christmas
“As we were landing, we saw this winter wonderland from the plane.”
Kristianne from Germany and Vincent from London
Tromsø is the main gateway to northern lights experiences in Northern Norway, and if you come in December, an extra treat awaits.
The lights from the Fjellheisen cable car are truly an amazing sight. Head down to the city centre of this Arctic metropolis for the real Christmas adventure to begin!
Strolling around in the streets makes you feel like you're inside your favourite Christmas film.
Stock up on original handmade gifts like knitted hats and warm wool sweaters!
Remember to keep warm! Stop by for a delicious hot chocolate at one of the many cosy cafés in this lively student city, such as Helmersen Delikatesser & Vinbar (pictured), Smørtorget and Koseverden.
And don't forget to try one of Norway's oldest exports: tørrfisk (stockfish) at one of the city's many excellent seafood restaurants, like Vertshuset Skarven.
Tørrfisk is a speciality in the Arctic cuisine. In December, you can try the Christmas version, lutefisk which has been soaked in lye!
Snow, starry polar nights and northern lights make Tromsø unique from other Christmas towns.
But this doesn't mean you will have 24 hours of complete darkness. So make sure to enjoy a few hours of daylight outside ...
… including the magic hour, when everything is blue!
Could there ever be a more beautiful place for a New Year's concert on the 31st of December than the Arctic Cathedral? Secure that ticket, cause it might get sold out!
You can also enjoy midnight concerts at Tromsø Cathedral from December to March, organised by Best Arctic.
Join Tromsø locals for fun-filled, child-friendly events, including a boat trip in Arctic waters on board the old wooden vessel Hermes II.
Christmas in Northern Norway is not complete without a trip outside the city.
Meet Santa's reindeer, ride a sleigh under the starry night sky, and experience Sami herding culture.
You are not the only visitor around.
Between November and January, large pods of whales and orcas frequently visit the area.
Fly across snowy terrain, pulled by eager huskies! Find an expedition that is perfect for you.
Or enjoy nature's own show. Catching a glimpse of the northern lights can be enough to make you believe in Christmas miracles.
Take the Fjellheisen cable car to amazing views of the lights, or join a tour with one of the northern light guides to more untamed nature.
“We came for the northern lights and the atmosphere.”
William and Laura from Italy
Tromsø has a unique atmosphere – all year round.
In winter, there are direct flights from several European cities, making Tromsø the perfect gateway to the beautiful wild regions of the north.
Plan your Arctic adventure in Tromsø today!
Northern lights forecast in Tromsø
Our 3-day northern lights forecast helps you find the best time to see the northern lights in Tromsø.
Get inspired
Joyful Christmas city breaks
Give yourself a treat before Christmas! Experience the holiday atmosphere.
Christmas the Norwegian way
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Discover more Norwegian holiday traditions and treats.
Take advantage of top offers
See our selection of trusted companies that work hard to make you happy all through your trip.
Brim ExplorerQuiet fjord tours on award-winning electric catamarans in Oslo, Tromsø, Lofoten, and Svalbard.
CityboxModern and affordable hotels in central locations in Oslo, Bergen, and Kristiansand.
NorgesbookingBook your perfect cabin stay in the fjords, mountains, and valleys of Norway.
Scandic HotelsExperience Nordic hotel hospitality at its finest at more than 90 hotels across Norway. Special offers are available.
StrawberryA different hotel company! Look out for great weekend deals at more than 100 hotels in Norway.
Thon Hotels ASFantastic breakfast included! Experience true comfort and reasonable rates at our 80 hotels in Norway.
CampcationBook a camping stay in stunning and unique locations all across Norway with Campcation.
Classic Norway HotelsWhen the hotel is the destination. Book a night to remember in one of Norway's most unique and distinctive hotels.
50 Degrees North NordicChoose between unforgettable tailormade individual trips and small, exclusive group tours of Norway.
Radisson HotelsGreat value offers and comfortable quality stays in Norway´s major cities, airports, and ski resorts.
Authentic ScandinaviaTravel curated by locals. Our tailormade tours suit every type of traveller and budget.
Booknordics.comUnique holiday packages, adventure hotels, tours, and activities.
Fjord ToursHome of Norway in a Nutshell, Norway's most popular tour. Fjords, mountains, and stunning destinations — all in one trip!
Go FjordsBook fantastic tours and experiences! We offer tours in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, Lofoten, the North Cape, and more.
HurtigrutenExperience the world's most beautiful sea voyage on an unforgettable cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast.
Norrøna AdventureGet ready for expeditions and adventure holidays with Norrøna Adventure. Hiking, skiing, and biking trips.
Discover NorwayOffers a range of exciting self-guided hiking, biking, and skiing holidays in Norway. Luggage transfer included.
Norwegian HolidaysLow-price package holidays with Norwegian. Book your flight, hotel, and rental car all in one place.
StrömmaSightseeing by bus and boat in several major tourist spots and cities in Norway.
Up NorwayBespoke luxury hand-picked by local experts. We combine your preferences and our knowledge to make an unforgettable journey.
Arctic Campers ASDo you want to try van life? Explore Norway in comfort and style with our smart and cosy campervans.
Auto EuropeAlways a smooth car rental experience. Search and compare rental rates. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to pick-up.
NOR-WAY BussekspressEnjoy scenic views on comfortable bus trips to the fjords and from city to city with our express buses.
Rent-A-Wreck of Scandinavia ASThe smart and affordable car rental alternative.
SJ NordSJ NORD - the adventure starts on the train
Vy expressDiscover Norway on comfortable express buses that take you between major cities, mountains, and fjords.
Vy TrainGlide through scenery on a train between Oslo and Bergen on the Bergen Railway and explore the greater Oslo region.
My Nordic TravelChoose between DIY itineraries and pre-packaged holidays to the very best destinations in Norway.
CampanyonUnique camping in nature. Book a stay in a treehouse or glamping tent or rent a motorhome pitch.
NorwegianNorwegian offers cheap flights in Norway and direct flights from more than 70 European destinations. Book flights through our low fare calendar to your destinations.
De HistoriskeHave an unforgettable stay at one of Norway's unique, authentic historic hotels. Enjoy first-class dining experiences and a broad range of activities.
CampioNorway's biggest camping booking site. Find the best camping and motorhome pitches throughout Norway.