the harbor of Tromsø with the arctic cathedral in the background

6 reasons to visit Tromsø in Northern Norway

As an urban city situated in the land of the midnight sun and northern lights, Tromsø is a place where you can enjoy modern art exhibitions one day, view wild reindeer as you chase summer or winter lights the next and explore the arctic wilderness with sled dogs the third day!

Witness northern lights, polar nights and the midnight sun

Tromsø is the place to go if you want the chance to see these incredible, natural phenomena. Visit between May and July to enjoy the eerie glow of the midnight sun, between November and January to experience the 24-hour polar nights and between September and April to revel in the spectacular sight of the dancing northern lights.

Northern lights above the Brim Explorer in the Tromsø fjord
Photo: Brim Explorer

Take in panoramic views of a city surrounded by natural wonder

The Fjellheisen cable car from Solliveien in Tromsdalen is Tromsø’s most popular attraction for a reason. It travels more than 400 meters (1312 ft) above sea level in just four minutes and offers incredible views of the city and its surrounding islands, fjords and mountains. This mountaintop vista is also an ideal location to take in the midnight sun or northern lights, depending on the time of year you visit.

The summit of Fjellheisen in Tromsø with snow and blue sky

Want to go dog sledding? How about reindeer sledding? You can do both in Tromsø

What better way to experience the beautiful northern wilderness than with an authentic reindeer or husky sledding experience! Combine the outing with a view of the northern lights and watch Northern Norway come to life before your very eyes.

Experience dog sledding in Tromsø

two ladies out dog sledding on their own in Tromsø

Self-drive dog sledding in Tromsø

Lead a team of racing dogs and head into the arctic wilderness on your own dog sled
From NOK 2540
three dog teams out dog sledding in arctic wilderness on a sunny day

Dog sledding in Tromsø

Enjoy the stunning landscape of Kvaløya on a 45-60min sled ride with huskies
From NOK 2540

Learn more about the Sami culture

The majority of Norway’s indigenous people, the Sami, live in this area of the country. Spread throughout the north of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia, their vibrant culture has a large presence in Tromsø and there are many opportunities to get to know this unique and special people group better while you’re visiting the area.

a sami family in Tromsø together with their herd of reindeer
Photo: Tromsø Arctic Reindeer

Tromsø is a perfect combination of tradition and contemporary

Tromsø offers its visitors a unique blend of old and new Norway, featuring everything from up-close encounters with local Sami reindeer herders and traditional fishing to a thriving nightlife and social scene.

A small bar in the main shopping street in Tromsø with campfire pan

Get the northern experience in comfort and style

Located 350 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is equipped for tourists with modern conveniences and a wide range of hotels, restaurants and activities. With a large airport, multiple ferry calls and good roads, the city has something for everyone—from the backpacker to the five-star traveller.

Whether you know Tromsø as the “Gateway to the Arctic” or “Paris of the North,” expect to tick off many boxes on your northern bucket list when you visit this cultural hub.

Experience Tromsø and the arctic fjords

Boat from Brim Explorer in a frozen fjord in Tromsø

Tromsø Fjord and Wildlife Cruise

Silent cruise from Tromsø in the Arctic fjords on the lookout for wildlife and epic coastal scenery
From NOK 1390
Northern lights above the Brim Explorer in the Tromsø fjord

Tromsø Electric Northern Lights Cruise

Experience the magic of the Northern Lights in the dark fjords of Tromsø
From NOK 1090