15 Best Things to Do in Tromsø, Norway in Winter
If you’ve ever dreamed of chasing the Northern Lights, standing above the Arctic Circle, or sipping hot chocolate while surrounded by snow-covered mountains and fjords, Tromsø might just steal your heart. Nicknamed “The Gateway to the Arctic,” this small but mighty city in northern Norway punches well above its weight when it comes to winter magic.
I visited Tromsø in December, right in the heart of polar night, and let me tell you, while the sun barely shows up, the experiences absolutely shine. From reindeer encounters to whale watching and the northernmost McDonald’s in the world (yes, really), Tromsø is one of those places that feels surreal in the best way.
Why Visit Tromsø?
Tromsø sits 350 kilometres above the Arctic Circle, making it one of the best places in the world to experience true Arctic winter. It’s famous for Northern Lights sightings, Arctic wildlife, and deep-rooted Sámi culture but what surprised me most is how lively and welcoming the city feels, even in the darkest months.
Despite its remote location, Tromsø has a buzzing café scene, modern infrastructure, and a strong sense of history tied to Arctic exploration, fishing, and indigenous traditions. You can go whale watching in the morning, learn about Sámi culture in the afternoon, and chase auroras at night.
If you want an Arctic experience without feeling completely off-grid, Tromsø is perfect.
A Quick Insight Into Tromsø’s History
Tromsø has long been a hub for Arctic expeditions. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became the launching point for explorers heading toward the North Pole, earning it the nickname “Paris of the North.” The city also has strong ties to the Sámi people, the indigenous population of northern Scandinavia, whose culture, reindeer herding traditions, and storytelling still shape the region today.
This mix of exploration history and living indigenous culture makes Tromsø feel meaningful, not just beautiful.
Getting to Tromsø
You can fly directly into Tromsø Airport (TOS). I flew with Norwegian Airlines, and despite a few weather-related delays (snowstorms are very real), the experience was smooth, they even compensated us with 80 NOK for food, which I honestly didn’t expect but appreciated since I did not have travel insurance.
Getting into the City
- Taxi: Convenient, especially late at night. Normally around 250 NOK (£18.44), but since we landed at 2am with no buses running, we paid 360 NOK (£26.55). Ride was about 10-15mins.
- Bus: The cheapest option I’ve ever seen in any country, about 26 NOK (£1.92) and takes 20–30 minutes. I recommend downloading the Svipper app to check for routes and to purchase the tickets. Buses 40, 42, or 24 go into the city centre.
Here’s my full winter guide, broken down into 15 things to do, plus travel tips, and everything I wish I knew before visiting.
15 Things to Do in Tromsø During Winter
1. Reindeer Feeding & Sámi Culture Experience
If you’re looking for an experience that goes beyond sightseeing and actually connects you to Arctic life, this is it. Reindeer feeding combined with learning about Sámi culture was easily one of my favourite things we did in Tromsø and something I’d recommend to absolutely everyone visiting in winter.
We booked this experience through GetYourGuide, which made everything super easy and stress-free. Transport from Tromsø city centre is included, which is helpful since these experiences take place just outside the city.
Since we had already done a reindeer sleigh ride the year before in Finland, we decided to switch things up and go for reindeer feeding instead and honestly, I’m so glad we did. The moment we arrived, I was genuinely shocked by how many reindeer were there. Seeing them roaming freely across a snowy field felt surreal, like stepping into a real-life Arctic postcard. Feeding them was interactive, fun, and surprisingly calming, and you really get time to enjoy the moment rather than rushing through it.
After about an hour of reindeer feeding, we moved into a traditional Sámi lavvu (tent) for lunch. Lunch was included in the tour and consisted of reindeer stew, which is a traditional dish in Sámi culture. If you’re vegetarian (or just prefer not to try reindeer), you can easily request a vegetarian option in advance. They also served tea, coffee, and cookies, which was especially appreciated after being out in the cold.
The final part of the experience was learning about Sámi culture, and this was where it really stood out from being just another tourist activity. For about an hour, we listened to stories about Sámi traditions, reindeer herding, daily life in the Arctic, and how Sámi culture has evolved over time. It was informative, personal, and genuinely interesting, not scripted or rushed.
I visited Tromsø in December, right in the middle of polar night, when daylight is extremely limited. The brightest light was around 11am, so if you’re travelling at this time of year and want cute photos with even a hint of daylight, I highly recommend booking a morning tour. Not only will you get better lighting for photos, but it also feels nice to start the day with such a special experience.
Overall, this was a three-hour experience (1 hour reindeer feeding, 1 hour lunch, 1 hour cultural storytelling), and it felt perfectly paced. If you only have time for a few tours in Tromsø, make this one of them.
Highlights:
- Feed dozens of reindeer in a snowy landscape
- Traditional lunch included (reindeer stew or vegetarian option)
- Tea, coffee, and cookies provided
- Sámi storytelling and cultural insights
- Best booked in the morning in December for daylight photos
- Includes return bus ride from Tromso city centre
Costs:
- We paid £142.19 per person for the experience
- Bookable via GetYourGuide: Tromsø: Reindeer Ranch and Sami Cultural Tour with Lunch
2. Whale Watching
A once-in-a-lifetime Arctic experience that feels straight out of a nature documentary.
Whale watching in Tromsø was one of those experiences that completely exceeded expectations. There’s something incredibly humbling about being out on Arctic waters, surrounded by snow-covered mountains, knowing that some of the world’s largest animals are swimming just beneath the surface.
Because we had back-to-back activities scheduled, we decided to book a catamaran whale cruise rather than a RIB boat. While RIB boats do get you closer to the whales, they’re completely open and much colder and often more expensive. The catamaran felt like the perfect balance for us, warm, comfortable, and still offering amazing views and sightings. If you’re visiting in winter and want to enjoy the experience without freezing, I’d absolutely recommend this option.
We booked our tour through GetYourGuide, with Helgøya, a family-run whale watching company and they were took great care of us from start to finish. As soon as we boarded, the crew introduced themselves, explained safety procedures, and walked us through what to expect during the day. During the journey, they shared fascinating information about the different whale species we might encounter, including orcas and humpback whales, which made the long journey feel engaging rather than slow.
And yes, you can absolutely still see whales from a larger boat. We were lucky enough to spot multiple orcas and humpback whales, and seeing them surface, dive, and swim alongside the boat was unforgettable. At no point did it feel like we were missing out by not being on a smaller vessel.
We were incredibly fortunate with timing. The days before our tour had been hit by a snowstorm, and this cruise ended up being their first day back out on the water. Conditions were still a bit rough, which made the experience feel even more adventurous.
The journey itself is quite long, about two hours out to the whale watching area, and two hours back. Because of this, I strongly recommend taking sea sickness tablets, even if you don’t usually get motion sickness. The waves can be unpredictable, and it’s much easier to enjoy the experience when you’re not feeling unwell.
One thing I really appreciated was how comfortable the boat was. There was free tea and coffee available throughout the trip, which was perfect for warming up, and you could also purchase snacks and food on board. There were indoor seating areas where you could rest, as well as outdoor decks for whale spotting and photos.
Overall, whale watching in Tromsø felt like a true Arctic adventure, educational, exciting, and genuinely awe-inspiring. Seeing orcas and humpback whales in their natural habitat, framed by icy fjords and snowy peaks, is something I’ll never forget. If you’re visiting Tromsø in winter and wondering whether this tour is worth it, the answer is a very easy yes.
Highlights:
- Witness different species of whales in their natural habitat (we saw orcas and humpback whales)
- Catamaran option for warmth and comfort
- Tea and coffee provided on board
- Knowledgeable, family-run operators
Costs:
- We paid £143.02 per person for the experience
- Bookable via GetYourGuide: Tromsø: Whale Watching – fast and comfortable catamaran
3. Spot the Northern Lights
The ultimate winter experience in Tromsø, unpredictable, magical, and completely unforgettable.
Let’s be honest, spotting the Northern Lights is the main reason many people travel all the way to Tromsø in winter. And while there’s no such thing as a guaranteed sighting, Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see them, especially during the long, dark winter months.
Based on our experience, one of the biggest factors is clear skies. When the clouds clear and you can see stars, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights increase significantly. Patience is key, the lights don’t appear on demand, and sometimes you’re standing in the cold for a while before anything happens.
A quick photography tip that really made a difference for us, use night mode on your phone and increase the exposure to 10 seconds (or the maximum setting available). Even when the Northern Lights look faint to the naked eye, your camera will often pick up much more colour and movement. Don’t be discouraged if they seem subtle at first, what you capture on camera might surprise you.
To increase our chances, we booked a Northern Lights tour through GetYourGuide, which was honestly the right decision for us. The tour removes a lot of stress, especially if you’re unfamiliar with driving in snowy, icy conditions or don’t want to spend the night guessing where to go. The guides monitor weather forecasts and cloud coverage and drive you to multiple locations to find the clearest skies.
We arrived a little early at the meeting point, where they were taking names and organising groups. Before heading out, we were given reflective vests, it made sure drivers could see us clearly when we were standing near roads in dark, remote areas.
That night, we were driven to several different spots. We ended up spotting the Northern Lights at our second stop, where they appeared suddenly and lasted for less than five minutes. It was quick, subtle, and honestly easy to miss if you weren’t paying attention, which really shows how unpredictable the aurora can be. As soon as we saw stars in the sky, our guide told us to stay alert and watch closely, as that’s often when the lights start to appear.
Later in the evening, we stopped at a bonfire area by the beach, where the guides had set up a cosy camp with marshmallows, cookies, tea, and coffee. Even though the lights were faint there, the atmosphere made the experience feel special, standing by the fire, listening to the waves, and scanning the sky together felt very Arctic adventure.
One of the most unexpected highlights of my trip came when I visited Fjellheisen at night. Because you’re higher up, away from some light pollution, the Northern Lights were slightly clearer to the naked eye. I genuinely didn’t think it would be possible to film the Northern Lights, but I managed to capture both photos and videos on my phone. Seeing the lights dance across the sky from above the city was an unreal experience and one I’ll never forget.
Overall, spotting the Northern Lights requires patience, flexibility, and a bit of luck but Tromsø gives you some of the best odds possible. Whether you see a faint glow for a few minutes or a full sky of dancing lights, the experience of standing under the Arctic night sky is something truly special.
Highlights:
- Higher chances during clear skies
- Visible to the eye, stunning on camera
Costs:
- Free if seen independently
- Tours usually cost between £80 – £180
- Tours booked via GetYourGuide: Tromsø: Northern Lights Pioneer Tour with Photos Included
4. Visit the Northernmost McDonald’s
A surprisingly fun and quirky stop that gives you bragging rights above the Arctic Circle.
This might not be the most traditional thing to do in Tromsø, but it’s honestly one of those little experiences that adds fun character to your trip. In 2024, Tromsø officially claimed the title of the northernmost McDonald’s in the world, taking it over from Rovaniemi in Finland, and you better believe people are excited about it.
I’ve always loved seeing how McDonald’s changes slightly from country to country, and Norway did not disappoint. One of the standout menu items here is sweet potato fries, which you don’t find everywhere and were surprisingly good.
Another fun bonus? You can grab a postcard that proudly says “Northernmost McDonald’s”. It’s a simple souvenir, but it makes for a great keepsake or something fun to send home to friends who probably won’t believe you’re eating McDonald’s this far north.
I visited around 3pm, and it was absolutely packed. There was a constant flow of people coming in, most of them heading straight for the sign that declares it the world’s northernmost McDonald’s. If you’re planning to get a photo with the sign (which, let’s be honest, you probably are), be prepared to wait your turn or try visiting earlier in the day or later in the evening when it might be slightly quieter.
Is this a must-do? Maybe not in the traditional sense but it’s fun, light-hearted, and one of those uniquely Tromsø moments that adds personality to your trip. Plus, when it’s freezing outside and you just want something warm and familiar, this spot hits the mark perfectly.
Highlights:
- World’s northernmost McDonald’s
- Sweet potato fries
- “Northernmost McDonald’s” postcard
- Warm, familiar stop during cold winter days
Costs:
- Approx. 120–180 NOK (£9–£13) for a meal
5. Try reindeer hot dog at Raketten Bar & Pølse
A tiny, historic hotdog stand serving one of Tromsø’s most iconic and comforting winter bites.
Raketten Bar & Pølse is one of those places that looks small and unassuming but ends up being one of the most memorable food stops in Tromsø. This historic kiosk, which has been serving hotdogs for over a century (opened in 1911), is famous for its reindeer and beef hotdogs and once you try one, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
Thanks to social media, Raketten has become something of a must-visit, which also means one thing, long lines. Every time I walked past in the afternoon or early evening, the queue was always wrapped around the kiosk, no matter the weather. After a couple of failed attempts, I decided to change strategy and visit right when it opened at 11am. Even then, there was already a short line forming but it was noticeably more manageable than later in the day.
Standing there with snow underfoot and cold air all around, finally getting my order felt like a small victory. I went for the reindeer hotdog, paired with a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, and it was exactly what I needed. There’s something incredibly cosy and comforting about eating something warm and hearty while surrounded by Arctic winter scenery. The reindeer hotdog itself was flavourful and filling, a simple dish, but one that feels uniquely local.
Raketten does have a small seating area at the back, which is handy if you want to sit down for a moment, but it’s worth noting that it isn’t heated. In winter, most people tend to eat standing up or grab their hotdog to go, especially when temperatures drop.
This is one of those Tromsø experiences that doesn’t take long, doesn’t cost much, and still leaves a lasting impression. If you want to try reindeer in a relaxed, approachable way and don’t mind a bit of waiting Raketten Bar & Pølse is absolutely worth it.
Highlights:
- Famous reindeer hotdogs
- Historic kiosk that has been around since 1911
- Affordable street food by Norwegian standards
- Extremely popular, visit right at 11am opening to avoid long lines
Costs:
- Reindeer hot dog (70NOK / £5.16)
- Cocoa / Hot Chocolate with marshmallows or whipped cream (40NOK / £2.95)
6. Porten til Ishavet (Gateway to the Arctic)
One of Tromsø’s most iconic photo spots and a symbolic entrance to the Arctic.
If you’re looking for a quick stop that combines history, art, and some of the best winter photography in Tromsø, Porten til Ishavet is it. This striking sculpture, whose name translates to “Gateway to the Arctic,” symbolises Tromsø’s historical and geographical role as the northern gateway to Arctic exploration. Standing in front of it, you really feel the connection between the city and the vast, icy world beyond.
The design itself is simple but clever, the arc frames the Arctic Cathedral perfectly, making it one of the most photographed spots in the city. If you step into the middle of the arc and snap a shot, you get the cathedral as the backdrop, framed almost like a natural picture frame. On the left side, you can also capture a nice view of Tromsø Bridge, adding depth and context to your photos.
Timing is key if you want the perfect shot. I recommend visiting around 10am – 11am, especially in winter when daylight is scarce. The light is soft, beautiful, and just enough to illuminate the snow-covered streets and sculptures without harsh shadows. Plus, visiting earlier helps you avoid crowds, when I left, a line had already formed of people waiting to take photos at the arc, so getting there early is worth it.
Porten til Ishavet is free to visit, just a few minutes from the main city centre, and yet feels like a must-see landmark. The winter snow gives it an added charm, turning it into a serene and almost magical backdrop for photos. Even if you’re not a huge photography fan, standing in the middle of the sculpture and taking in the views of the Arctic Cathedral and Tromsø Bridge is an experience that really captures the spirit of the city.
Whether you’re posting to Instagram, capturing memories, or just soaking in Tromsø’s Arctic charm, Porten til Ishavet is a stop that deserves a place on your winter itinerary.
Highlights:
- Frame the Arctic Cathedral perfectly
- One of Tromsø’s most photographed landmarks
- Best visited around 10am – 11am for light and fewer crowds while the sky lights up
Costs:
- Free
7. Visit Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen)
If you’re walking through Tromsø, the Arctic Cathedral is hard to miss, its sharp, triangular silhouette rises dramatically against the city skyline, especially stunning when dusted with winter snow. Officially named Tromsdalen Church, it earned the nickname Arctic Cathedral because of its bold, iceberg-inspired design that evokes the surrounding fjords, mountains, and Arctic light.
Designed by Jan Inge Hovig and completed in 1965, the cathedral is a prime example of modern Norwegian architecture. The way the angular concrete panels catch the low winter sun or reflect the Northern Lights is truly spectacular. It feels like standing inside a piece of art, clean lines, soaring ceilings, and a sense of stillness that contrasts beautifully with the icy, windswept city outside.
In winter, when daylight is scarce, sunlight streaming through the glass creates an almost ethereal glow that’s perfect for quiet reflection or for photography if you catch the right light.
During the winter months, it hosts concerts featuring everything from organ recitals to traditional Norwegian folk music. Although I haven’t been, I read that attending a concert here is a magical experience, the acoustics are phenomenal, and the combination of music, the cathedral’s design, and the Arctic night outside is unforgettable.
Highlights:
- Dramatic modern architecture
- Peaceful interior and stained-glass window
- Hosts winter concerts and events
Costs:
- 80 NOK (£5 – £6) entry
- Concerts cost extra
8. Ride the Fjellheisen Cable Car
The ultimate viewpoint in Tromsø, breathtaking cityscapes, fjords, and even the Northern Lights in one trip (if you visit at night).
If there’s one activity that truly captures the beauty of Tromsø from above, it’s a ride up Fjellheisen. The cable car takes you up 421 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the city, surrounding fjords, and snow-capped mountains. Whether you visit in the middle of the day or at night, it’s an experience that will make you stop and just stare, it’s hard to overstate how stunning the vistas are.
The cable car ride itself only lasts 4–5 minutes, so it’s quick and convenient, but the reward at the top is absolutely worth it. I visited at night and was lucky enough to catch the Northern Lights while overlooking the city, it felt like a two-in-one adventure, combining spectacular city views with a natural light show above. For photographers or Aurora hunters, this spot is hard to beat because you get a clear, unobstructed view from high above the city lights.
Tickets can be booked easily online through the Fjellheisen website. When I visited, a return ticket cost 595 NOK (£43.88) per person, which includes both the ride up and back down. There are also bus packages available for 695 NOK (£51.25) per person, which include transport to and from the cable car base but if you prefer, it’s a pleasant walk across the bridge to enjoy the coastline views before boarding (which is what I did).
For those who like to move at their own pace, there’s a free hiking option up the mountain. I didn’t try this myself, but I saw several people making the climb. Just keep in mind that it’s a steady incline, and in winter, paths can be slippery or icy, so good footwear and water are essential. The hike can be a rewarding workout with the added bonus of watching Tromsø slowly reveal itself as you ascend.
Once you’re at the top, there’s a café with seating, perfect for a warm drink, morning coffee, or afternoon tea while taking in the views and defrosting. It’s a great spot to pause, warm up, and soak in the scenery, whether it’s daylight, twilight, or the Northern Lights above. There’s even a list of countries on a pole in the directions from Tromso, Norway.
Whether you take the cable car or hike up, Fjellheisen is the quintessential Tromsø experience, it gives you perspective, awe-inspiring scenery, and, in winter, possibly one of the most magical views you’ll ever see of the Northern Lights dancing over the city and fjords.
Highlights:
- 4–5 minute cable car ride
- Views over the city, fjords, and mountains
- Chance to see the Northern Lights at night
- Café at the summit
- Free hiking option for hikers
Costs:
- 595 NOK (£43.88) return
- 695 NOK (£51.25) with bus package
- Hiking: Free
9. Enjoy the views of the city at Tromsø Utsiktspunkt
An unexpected gem for panoramic city views without taking the cable car.
Not everyone has time, energy, or the budget to take the Fjellheisen cable car, and that’s where Tromsø Utsiktspunkt comes in, a hidden gem I stumbled upon while exploring Google Maps. It’s a quieter alternative to the more popular viewpoints, yet the views are just as breathtaking. From here, you get a sweeping panorama of Tromsø city, the surrounding fjords, and the snow-capped mountains that cradle the town.
What makes this spot special is that it’s completely free, and you don’t have to deal with crowds or wait in lines. I found it completely by chance, but I’m so glad I did, it instantly became one of my favourite moments in Tromsø. There’s even a bench at the top, so you can sit down, relax, and really take in the Arctic scenery. I spent a good 20 minutes just watching the water shimmer in the winter light and the small town below, feeling like I’d discovered my own private viewpoint.
Because it’s less known, it’s also a great place for photography, especially if you want unobstructed shots of Tromsø’s rooftops, the fjords, and the surrounding mountains. Visiting during winter gives an added layer of magic, the snow-covered landscape reflects the soft polar light beautifully, making for striking photos.
For anyone looking for a free, quiet, and breathtaking vantage point, Tromsø Utsiktspunkt is a perfect option. It’s a little discovery that rewards curiosity and gives you a peaceful moment to appreciate Tromsø from above without the need for a cable car ticket.
Highlights:
- Scenic city and fjord views
- Quieter and less crowded
Costs:
- Free
10. Arctic Cold Plunge & Sauna
One of Tromsø’s most daring and uniquely Nordic experiences, a true test of courage and a rejuvenating Arctic ritual.
If you’re looking for an experience that’s equal parts adrenaline and relaxation, cold plunging in the Arctic paired with a traditional sauna is an absolute must. This is one of those things that sounds intimidating at first and yes, I’ll admit, I chickened out myself but watching others take the plunge and then relax in a hot sauna looked simultaneously terrifying and exhilarating.
The concept is simple, after warming up in a traditional Nordic sauna, you step into icy Arctic waters either a cold plunge pool or, for the brave, straight into a fjord or frozen bay. The shock of the cold is intense, but it’s said to have amazing health benefits, from boosting circulation to improving your mood and energy. Plus, there’s something undeniably memorable about standing in freezing water with snow around you and mountains in the distance.
For those who want to try it in Tromsø, there are a couple of great options:
- Sauna Pust Tromsø: A popular sauna located by the waterfront with modern facilities and cosy lounges. They offer a mix of traditional sauna and cold-water plunges, and it’s easy to combine a visit with a winter walk along the waterfront.
- The HotSpot Sauna: Another option with beautiful views, especially at sunset, giving you the Arctic landscape as a dramatic backdrop while you go through the sauna-cold plunge cycle.
Even if you’re hesitant to jump in, the sauna alone is a wonderful experience. You can warm up, relax, and enjoy the Nordic ritual of alternating between heat and cold in a safe, controlled environment. Watching other visitors take the plunge can also be strangely inspiring, and it’s a great conversation starter if you’re with friends or fellow travellers.
Highlights:
- Swim in Arctic waters
- Floating sauna experience
- Popular options: Pust Sauna & HotSpot Sauna
Costs:
- 400–600 NOK (£30–£45) Prices may vary depending on the sauna and time of day.
11. Get a Polar Certificate
A fun and unique souvenir that officially proves you’ve crossed the Arctic Circle.
If you’re looking for a quirky, memorable memento from your Arctic adventure, getting a Polar Certificate in Tromsø is a must-do. It’s essentially a souvenir that certifies you’ve crossed the Arctic Circle, and while it may seem simple, it’s surprisingly fun and gives you a story to tell when you get home.
The certificate costs 200 NOK (£14.59) per person, and you can even have two names on a single certificate, which is perfect for couples or friends traveling together. It’s a small investment for a keepsake that captures a major milestone being officially north of the Arctic Circle!
To get your certificate, head to Visit Tromsø-Region AS at Storgata 83, right in the city centre. When you enter, you’ll notice that the counter can get busy, especially during the holiday season, I visited on 31 December 2025, and it was definitely packed. To manage the lines, they’ve implemented a ticket system, so be sure to grab a ticket as soon as you arrive before you line up at the counter.
Once it’s your turn, the process is simple but fun. The staff will ask you to write your name on a sticky note, ensuring your name is spelled correctly on the certificate. Then, they’ll prepare it for you, a neat, official-looking document that marks your Arctic adventure. There’s a little bit of ceremony to it, and it feels surprisingly special, even though it’s a souvenir.
Getting a Polar Certificate is more than just a piece of paper, it’s a small but meaningful way to mark your journey into the Arctic, a reminder of the unique experiences you’ve had in Tromsø, from snowy landscapes to Northern Lights adventures. For anyone visiting Tromsø, it’s a simple, fun, and completely Arctic thing to do.
Highlights:
- Personalised certificate
- Can include two names
- Process at the tourist office
Costs:
- 200 NOK (£14.59) per certificate
12. Tromsø Cathedral (Domkirke)
A charming historic landmark at the heart of Tromsø, perfect for culture, architecture, and winter photography.
Located right in the middle of Tromsø’s town centre, the Tromsø Cathedral, or Tromsø domkirke, is a standout landmark that combines history, architecture, and local charm. While Tromsø is known for its modern Arctic Cathedral across the bridge, this yellow wooden church has a completely different perspective, one that feels cosy, historic, and authentically Norwegian.
Built in 1861, Tromsø Cathedral is one of the largest wooden churches in Norway, which is remarkable considering its age and location in the Arctic. It has survived over a century of harsh winters and Arctic conditions, making it not only a place of worship but also a testament to Norwegian craftsmanship and resilience. The bright yellow exterior stands out beautifully against the often-grey winter skies and snowy streets, making it a perfect photo spot for travellers exploring the town.
Inside, the church is surprisingly spacious and peaceful. The wooden interior gives off a warm, inviting atmosphere, which contrasts with the cold, snowy streets outside. While it may not be as grand as some of Europe’s cathedrals, its charm lies in its simplicity and historic significance. It’s still an active church, hosting services, concerts, and community events, which adds to its vibrant connection with the city.
For anyone exploring Tromsø, the cathedral is more than just a photo opportunity, it’s a window into the city’s history, culture, and the Nordic way of life in the Arctic. Even a quick stop gives you a sense of Tromsø’s past and its enduring charm amidst the modern cityscape.
Highlights:
- Central location
- Great photo opportunity
- Distinct yellow exterior
Costs:
- Free or small donation
13. Stroll Along Storgata
The heartbeat of Tromsø’s city life, perfect for shopping, dining, and soaking in local culture.
No trip to Tromsø is complete without a stroll down Storgata, the city’s main pedestrian-friendly street. Stretching through the heart of town, this vibrant strip is where locals and visitors alike converge to shop, eat, and explore the charm of Arctic Norway. Walking along Storgata is like a snapshot of Tromsø itself, colourful buildings, cosy cafés, souvenir shops, and small boutiques all lined up, with the snow-covered street adding a magical winter vibe.
You get the perfect mix of city life, local culture, and winter charm, all framed by snow-dusted buildings and twinkling lights. Even a short stroll here makes you feel connected to the city and its people, while giving you plenty of opportunities for photos and small adventures along the way.
Highlights:
- Shops, cafés, and restaurants
- Cosy winter atmosphere
- Combine your stroll with stops at Tromsø Cathedral or small side streets for hidden photo opportunities.
Costs:
- Free (unless shopping or dining)
14. King Crab Experience
A King Crab Cruise in Tromsø is one of those experiences that combines adventure, education, and a true taste of Arctic life. While I wanted to do this on my trip, I didn’t have enough time to fit it in but from everything I’ve read and seen, it seems like so much fun!
On these experiences, you get to venture out into the Arctic fjords and see, and even help catch, giant king crabs, a hands-on experience that’s very different from just sightseeing. King crabs are huge, fascinating creatures, and they’re considered a delicacy in Norway (and around the world), so it’s also a chance to taste one of the Arctic’s most famous seafood offerings right after harvesting.
Many tours include a fresh king crab meal or tasting onboard, accompanied by hot drinks to stay warm while enjoying the dramatic scenery of snow-covered fjords, mountains, and Arctic wildlife. Even just being out on the water, watching the traps being pulled up, and seeing these massive crabs is an experience in itself.
Even though I didn’t get the chance to go myself, a King Crab Cruise in Tromsø looks like a truly immersive Arctic adventure, a mix of excitement, learning, and delicious food and definitely something I’d put at the top of my list for next time.
Highlights:
- Catch king crabs at sea
- Learn about Arctic fishing
- Fresh crab meal included
Costs:
- £150 – £250 per person for the king crab experience
- Book via GetYourGuide: The official Tromsø king crab fish tour
15. Husky Safari Dog Sledding Experience
An iconic Arctic adventure that combines adrenaline, stunning landscapes, and a connection with some of the happiest huskies you’ll ever meet.
Dog sledding is one of the ultimate winter experiences in Tromsø, and while I personally haven’t done it in Tromso, Norway (I’ve gone husky sledding in Saariselkä, Finland), it’s high on my Arctic bucket list and I can absolutely recommend it if you haven’t experienced it before. This is a quintessential Tromsø activity, giving you the chance to glide across snowy trails while being pulled by a team of energetic huskies through pristine Arctic wilderness.
Most sledding trips are designed for two people per sled, one person steers, and the other rides in the sleigh while taking in the breathtaking scenery. The huskies are incredibly strong, enthusiastic, and trained to respond to commands, which makes the experience thrilling but safe. Even as a passenger, you feel a rush as the sled slides over snowy landscapes, with mountains, forests, and frozen rivers stretching out in all directions.
Highlights:
- Ride through snow-covered scenery
- Interact with huskies
- Best from December–March
Costs:
- £150 – £250 per person for the husky safari experience
- Book via GetYourGuide: From Tromsø: Husky Experience with Self-Drive Dog Sled Ride
Tips for Visiting Tromsø in Winter
- Dress in layers, thermal base layers are essential
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Waterproof boots with good grip
- Plan outdoor activities around daylight hours (between 10am – 1pm)
- Book tours early, winter is peak season
- The best way to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights is to check that the sky is clear and cloud-free, look for visible stars, and set your phone’s camera to night mode with the highest exposure to help capture them.
- Winter daylight is limited, especially during the polar night (late November to mid-January), so plan activities that rely on natural light in the middle of the day.
- Embrace spontaneity. Some of the most magical moments, like spotting the Northern Lights from Fjellheisen or discovering Tromsø Utsiktspunkt, happen when you’re wandering off the beaten path.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I loved my time in Tromso! Every street, fjord, and snow-covered peak tells a story, from centuries-old wooden churches to modern Arctic architecture. And while the winter cold is intense, the warmth of the people, the reindeers, and even the little quirks like sweet potato fries at the northernmost McDonald’s, make it a trip you’ll never forget.
If you’re even thinking about visiting Tromsø in winter, take this as your sign. You won’t regret it!
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