Visiting Tromsø in Lapland and Norway: TromsoTravelGuide.com is the travel guide with the best tourist information for your city trip, best places to see northern lights in Norway.
The city of Tromsø, located above the Arctic Circle in Norway, is famous for its pristine nature, breathtaking views, and the magical Northern Lights. Whether you are an adventurous explorer or just want to enjoy the Arctic beauty, Tromsø offers something for every visitor with its Tromsø attractions. In our travel guide, you will discover why this city, with just 78,745 inhabitants, is so special and what you can do when you visit Tromsø in Lapland. Welcome to my Tromsø travel guide.
Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. This magical natural phenomenon, also known as the aurora borealis, attracts thousands of visitors to the city every year. The dark winter months (from September to March) offer the best chance to witness this breathtaking light show. Tromsø is located right in the so-called "Aurora Zone," where the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are very high, especially during January and February. There are various Northern Lights tours available that help you reach the best spots to see this phenomenon. From jeep safaris and minibus trips to remote areas, to boat tours on the fjords where you can quietly enjoy the lights stretching across the mountains. Professional guides not only take you to the best locations but also share fascinating insights about this magical natural spectacle.
Tromsø Lapland is famous for its winter adventures. During the winter months, you can join spectacular husky tours, where you glide through the snowy landscape in a dog sled. It’s my favorite activity in Tromsø and offers an unforgettable experience. The huskies are enthusiastic and patient, making it a great way to explore the Arctic wilderness. Additionally, Tromsø offers other snow activities such as snowmobiling, ice fishing, and snowshoe hiking. These Tromsø activities provide an excellent way to experience Tromsø’s winter landscape, covered in a thick layer of snow and ice during the season.
In summer, Tromsø Norway offers another impressive phenomenon: the midnight sun. From late May to late July, the sun remains above the horizon 24 hours a day. This provides unique opportunities for outdoor activities, even in the middle of the night. You can explore the city and its surroundings without it ever getting dark. I enjoy walking through nature, taking a boat trip, or climbing the surrounding mountains for a panoramic view. Summer is also my favorite time to explore the fjords of Tromsø Lapland. The waters and impressive mountains around Tromsø are perfect for kayaking, hiking, and boat tours. Nature comes alive with flowers, lush forests, and an abundance of wildlife.
Tromsø is not only a city of nature but also a city rich in culture and history. The city has several interesting museums that highlight the history of the Arctic region and the Sami culture in Lapland. The Polar Museum, for example, offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the North Pole expeditions and the role of Tromsø in the exploration of the Arctic region. Another interesting museum is the North Pole Museum, which teaches you more about the nature, wildlife, and history of the north. A visit to a Sami and reindeer farm provides a unique opportunity to learn more about Sami culture. You can feed the reindeer, take a ride in a reindeer sled, or simply enjoy the hospitality of the Sami people, who play an essential role in the history of the polar region.
Tromsø is a city full of fascinating sights. Discover the Arctic Cathedral, stroll along the historic harbor, or explore the museums during a snowfall. Read all about the 20 main attractions and things to do in Tromsø Lapland.
During these tours, you learn about the Sami culture, their traditions, and lifestyle. You get the chance to get close to reindeer, which are essential to the Sami in Lapland. Often, you can participate in activities such as feeding the reindeer or even taking a ride in a reindeer sleigh.
Tromsø lies at the heart of the Northern Lights zone, making it one of the best places in the world to see this natural phenomenon. There are various tours available, from jeep or minibus trips to remote areas to boat tours on the fjords. Guided tours help you find the best locations.
Husky tours in Tromsø Norway are a fun and adventurous way to explore the enchanting Arctic surroundings. You can join sledding tours, sliding through snow-covered landscapes powered by an enthusiastic pack of huskies.
In Tromsø, various airport transfers are available to take you to and from Tromsø Airport (TOS). The Flybussen is a popular option, offering regular connections to the city center. Additionally, you can take a taxi for a quick and comfortable ride.
Tromsø offers a wide range of hotels for every preference and budget. From luxury five-star hotels in the heart of the city to cozy boutique hotels and rustic lodges. In this article, you can read more about the 8 best hotels to stay at in the center of Tromsø Norway.
Tromsø and Lapland are fascinating destinations all year round, but each season offers something unique:
| Weather | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| min. temp (°C) | - 5 | - 6 | - 4 | -2 | 3 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 5 | 1 | - 2 | - 4 |
| max. temp (°C) | 0 | - 1 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 12 | 16 | 15 | 11 | 6 | 3 | 1 |
| hours sun / day | 0 | 1 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| mm precipitation | 105 | 95 | 90 | 60 | 55 | 55 | 60 | 75 | 100 | 125 | 95 | 110 |
Planning a magical winter trip to Lapland but not sure whether to visit Tromsø or Rovaniemi? The table below gives a clear comparison between these two most popular destinations in Lapland:
| Aspect | Tromsø (Norway) | Rovaniemi (Finland) |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere & Location | Located on the coast, surrounded by fjords and mountains. A vibrant university city with cafés, culture, and a strong Northern Lights vibe. | Inland on the Arctic Circle. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, offering a warm and family-friendly atmosphere. |
| Northern Lights | Excellent chance from September to March. Mild coastal climate, though occasionally cloudy due to ocean influence. Many guided aurora tours available. | Also a very high chance from August to April. Drier climate and often clear nights, perfect for Northern Lights photography. |
| Activities | Whale watching, fjord cruises, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and mountain panoramas. More focused on adventure and nature. More info about What to do in Tromsø. | Visit Santa Claus Village, husky and reindeer safaris, snowmobile rides, ice hotels, and the Arktikum museum. Very family-friendly. More info about What to do in Rovaniemi. |
| Costs | Higher price level – Norway is generally more expensive for food, transport, and accommodation. | Somewhat more affordable, especially outside the Christmas period. Good value for money for activities. |
| Best time to visit | September to March for the Northern Lights; November to February for winter activities. | December to March for the full winter wonderland experience; also great around Christmas for Santa visits. |
| Best suited for | Adventurers, nature lovers, photographers, and travelers who want to combine culture and wilderness. | Families, couples, and anyone dreaming of a magical Lapland experience with a Christmas touch. |
| Unique highlights | Fjord landscapes, whales, and a lively city in the far north. | Santa Claus Village. |
Tromsø is located in the northern part of Norway, above the Arctic Circle, on the island of Tromsøya. It is the largest city in Northern Norway and serves as a gateway to the Arctic region. Tromsø is about 350 kilometers from the North Pole, is part of Lapland, and is no less than 1150 kilometers north of the Norwegian capital Oslo.
The iconic bridge that connects Tromsø with the island of Kvaløya
Visit the city of Tromsø in Norway
Visiting Tromsø Lapland in winter
The city center of Tromsø Norway
