10 Best Things to do in Tromso, Norway

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Looking for the best things to do in Tromso? You’re in the right place!

Situated in Northern Norway, Tromso is truly unlike any place we’ve traveled to. The vast landscape, Arctic environment, and wildlife had us itching to explore. But I must admit, we were a bit intimidated when we visited as there was a lot we didn’t know about this part of the world!

If you’re feeling the same way, don’t fret! We’ve done the research for you and put together this list of the top 10 things to do in Tromso so you don’t miss a thing. These are the bucket list experiences, and all are easy to dive in and enjoy!

Things to do in Tromso, Norway

1. Chase the Northern Lights on a small-group adventure

• Duration: 5 to 8 hours
• Time: 6 pm
• Highlights: Chase the Northern Lights in a small group with expert guides, enjoy homemade soup around a campfire, stay warm with thermal suits and boots, get photos taken of you under the aurora with tips from a pro photographer.
• Inclusions: Your professional guide, souvenir photos, drop-off transport, thermal suits and boots, dinner
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,900+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Seeing the Northern Lights in person is one of those bucket-list moments, and this small-group tour from Tromso gives you the best shot at experiencing it in comfort, warmth, and good company.

The night begins with pickup in central Tromso before you head out into the Arctic wilderness in search of clear skies and the elusive aurora. Our guide, Tomas, was a true aurora chaser, using live weather updates, satellite data, and local knowledge to find the best spot. You might even cross the border into Finland if the skies are better there, so be sure to bring your passport, just in case!

Once you find the ideal viewing spot, your guide will set up camp with a cozy bonfire and homemade soup. Thermal suits and boots are provided, so even if temperatures drop, you’ll stay warm and comfortable. This was easily one of the highlights of the night for us, as we enjoyed the calm and quiet of sitting by the fire, sipping hot soup, waiting for the sky to come alive.

If you’re looking to take photos but don’t know how to capture the lights, your guide will be more than happy to help you out! They’ll also take photos which you can get for free, or pay a little extra for high-resolution versions.

With a small group size, expert guidance, and thoughtful extras, this is a full Arctic experience you won’t forget. If you’re hoping to catch the Northern Lights in all its glory, this is the kind of experience you want to be on!

If seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, reserve your spot here in advance!

2. Take an arctic road trip to Kvaloya Island 

• Duration: 5-6 hours
• Time: 9:30 am
• Highlights: Easily explore Norway’s arctic landscape with an expert guide and transportation, exploring the remote island of Kavloya, and amazing photo opportunities
• Inclusions: Transportation and guide, professional photos, healthy lunch, snacks, and coffee/tea
• Rating: 5 stars (check 700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

One of the reasons we were so excited to visit Tromso was to explore the vast Norwegian wilderness. How often do you get to wander through the Arctic landscape? We didn’t rent a car, so this arctic road trip tour made it easy to get outside and see mountains, fjords, wildlife, and so much more!

We met our guide, Michael, in central Tromso and quickly were on the road toward Kvaloya. The island isn’t a far drive from Tromso, but the landscape quickly changes. Michael made lots of stops along the way, pointing out the most stunning scenic overlooks and taking professional pictures for us, and of us!

One thing I really loved about this tour was how relaxed it was. We had a small group, so we never felt rushed and could explore at our own pace. The picnic lunch on the beach was a serious highlight of the day, we even got lucky for the sun to come out so it made the scenery look even more stunning – if at all possible!

We saw some hidden gems and Michael told us so many facts about the landscape, history, and what life is like living in an Arctic climate. If you want to get outside and see untouched wilderness – this is the best way to do it!

Dates are limited – book your tour in advance here to secure your spot!

3. Go fishing and spot wildlife in a fjord 

• Duration: 5 hours
• Time: 10 am
• Highlights: Cruising on a traditional wooden boat, spotting wildlife, catching fish, and eating freshly caught fish
• Inclusions: Local guide, all gear necessary, lunch, snacks, hot beverages
• Rating: 5 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We’ve been on fishing excursions in tropical places, but never in the Arctic! So this fishing and fjord sightseeing cruise was an easy addition to our Tromso itinerary. It turned into a lovely morning of cruising along the scenic fjord, spotting tons of animals, and casting a line to see what we could catch!

Our crew was incredibly friendly and welcoming, you could tell that they truly enjoyed their job. We quickly set sail, and it didn’t take long for us to spot puffins, eagles, dolphins, and eventually a whale! 

I especially liked that this was a hands-on wildlife cruise, so we weren’t just passively sitting and trying to spot animals. Our captain stopped the boat in a few different locations and we got to fish. I was lucky enough to catch a cod, which was later used in our traditional Norwegian soup for lunch – talk about fresh. 

In addition to the wildlife, we had the chance to chat with our guides about the landscape and the history of this area, which really made the experience more immersive. We finished this cruise feeling like we had a unique experience in Tromso, it was one of the most memorable parts of our trip!

Book this tour with over 300 5-star reviews here to secure your spot!

4. See fjords up close on an arctic cruise

• Duration: 4 hours 
• Time: 8 am or 1 pm 
• Highlights: Hybrid-electric boat ride, admiring arctic fjord scenery, learning about Norwegian history and culture, passing cultural villages, onboard commentary, Kvalova old fishing facility
• Inclusions: Boat ride, on board guide, WiFi on board 
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation:
• Price: Check price here!

This half-day Arctic fjord cruise from Tromso was a breathtaking experience that I’ll never forget! As soon as we set off on the hybrid-electric boat, we were treated to stunning views of rugged mountain landscapes and sparkling waters. We were able to enjoy the views on the outdoor deck and keep ourselves going with drinks and snacks from the onboard café. 

One of the most amazing parts of this experience was exploring the ocean ecosystems through the underwater drone. I had never come across one before, and it allowed us to see the fjord from a completely different perspective! Later on, we docked at Kvaloya to explore an old fishing facility and learn about the importance of fishing in Northern Norway. 

The boat itself was comfortable, with plenty of indoor seating and spacious outdoor areas where we could enjoy the breeze and take in the panoramic views. Our guide’s commentary was engaging and provided a lot of insight into the region’s history. It was so interesting to learn about how fishing has shaped the local way of life!

This cruise was truly the perfect way to experience Tromso’s stunning Arctic landscape. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting this incredible part of the world, and I’m certainly not surprised that it has hundreds of 5-star reviews.

Check availability and book your cruise here!

5. Learn how to cross-country ski

• Duration: 2.5-3 hours
• Time: 10 am or 2 pm
• Highlights: Skiing past fjords, mountains, and forests, learning from expert ski instructors, small group so you get personalized attention, exploring Tromso’s outdoors in a new way
• Inclusions: Transport from central Tromso, ski instructor, ski rentals and gear, drinks, and snacks
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Growing up in Canada, I started cross-country skiing at a young age, and it’s one of my favorite winter activities. I know it sounds difficult, but it’s quite doable, and this beginner-friendly cross-country ski course will teach you everything you need to know!

A lot of Tromso’s beauty is outside of the city, and while you can experience it with a van or on a boat, you can’t get into those hard-to-reach places like you can on cross-country skis. It’s even popular in the summer, thanks to Norway’s year-round snow-covered landscape.

During your ski lesson, your instructor will cover all the basics, like how to put on your skis and fall without hurting yourself (that’s an important skill – let me tell you!).

From my past experience, beginners often get the hang of it within minutes, so you can hit the trail and explore further into the snow-clad forest. They start out on flat terrain, but if you’re feeling confident, you can practice on hills too. I always work up a sweat while skiing, but I still love the warm drinks and snacks at the end as a little reward!

This is a great place to learn a new skill, and if you fall in love with skiing, you can rent skis and hit the trails on your other days in Tromso. Cross-country skiing is Norway’s official sport, after all!

Check out all the glowing reviews and book this tour here!

6. Hike under the Midnight Sun

• Duration: 4 – 5 hours
• Time: Between 8 pm and 9:30 pm, according to sunset time 
• Highlights: Hiking along the rugged coastline, panoramic views as far as the eye can see, spotting flora and fauna, picking wild herbs and berries, experiencing Norway’s famous Midnight Sun, small group tour
• Inclusions: Expert guide, sitting pad, hiking poles, hiking backpack, souvenir photos, dinner
• Rating: 5 stars (check reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

One of the main reasons to travel to Norway during the summer is to witness the midnight sun! Since Tromsø is so far north, the sun never fully sets during the peak of summer. Instead, you just get a sunset that bathes the landscape in a warm, golden light before the sun comes back up again!

And of course, the best way to enjoy the midnight sun is while surrounded by beautiful scenery, so I booked this hiking tour. I was keen to partake in this epic experience, but I wanted a guide for safety and navigation, and that decision proved to be totally worth it.

I knew I was in for something special right from the off with this tour. As soon as we left the city behind, we were treated to a diverse range of breathtaking landscapes. I’m talking about rolling hills, fjords, and mountains stretching as far as the eye could see! The beauty of this place really is hard to put into words, and it’s even more epic under the glow of the midnight sun.

Our tour group was limited to just eight people, so the hike also felt really intimate and personal. The guide, Anthony, was fantastic and shared so many insights about local history and wildlife. The hike itself was exhilarating, and when we reached the summit, seeing the never-ending sunset was a truly surreal experience.

This hike is an absolute must-do for anyone visiting Tromsø. I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

Book this bucket list hike here, with FREE cancellation!

7. Enjoy a small-group daytime hiking trip 

• Duration: 5 hours 
• Time: 11 am or 1 pm (depending on daylight hours)
• Highlights: Exploring rugged hiking routes, admiring fjords and mountains, spotting native wildlife, learning about the area’s geology and ecology, learning how to pick wild berries 
• Inclusions: Transport from central Tromsø, expert guide, packed lunch (vegan and veggie options available), sitting pad, hiking poles, hiking backpack, souvenir photos 
• Rating: 5 stars (check reviews here!)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

I love hiking and I always try to do at least one hike wherever I travel, but it’s a real must-do in Tromsø, where you’ve got Arctic landscapes right on your doorstep. However, hiking around here can be tricky, and it requires some equipment, so the safest and easiest thing to do is to book this small group guided hike. 

And believe me, this hike is worth every penny. Our guide, Armand, was absolutely incredible. As well as guiding us through lush valleys, past towering mountains, and up to viewpoints over Tromsø’s jaw-dropping fjords, he also taught us so much about local ecology! We even learned how to spot and forage for wild blueberries along the trail, which were so sweet and delicious.

We had a simple sandwich for lunch, but we enjoyed it while sitting on a rock with a million-dollar view. We really bonded as a group, and the whole experience felt really personal. I’ve done so many hikes all over the world, but this one really stood out to me!

In terms of difficulty, the hike wasn’t overly strenuous, so it’s accessible for most fitness levels. You definitely don’t need to be a pro hiker, and Arnaud is always on hand to help! Plus, having all of the equipment provided makes things extra easy. 

Check availability and book this epic hiking tour here!

8. Explore Tromso by e-bike

• Duration: 3 hours 
• Time: 10 am or 2:30 pm 
• Highlights: Exploring Tromsø on two wheels, cycling through the town and countryside, Telegraph Bay, Prestvannet Lake, Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden
• Inclusions: Use of e-bike, local guide, helmet, hot drinks, snack
• Rating: 5 stars (check reviews here!)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Tromsø is a small city, so exploring on this e-bike tour allows you to tick off all of the best sights in just a few hours! Then, you can spend the rest of your time here exploring the fjords and arctic scenery. 

The e-bikes are so easy to ride, even if you’re not usually much of a cyclist. Even the uphill climbs were an absolute breeze! 

Our first stop was Telegrafbukta – aka Telegraph Bay – a charming beach area that locals jokingly call “Tromsø Gran Canaria” because it looks like it belongs in the Canary Islands, not Norway! And despite the chilly temperatures, the park was a lively spot with gorgeous views of the water. 

Next, we cycled up to Prestvannet Lake. The ride was smooth and effortless thanks to the electric assist, and the scenery was totally worth it. We even spotted some ducks and gulls while learning about the area’s birdlife.

My favorite stop was definitely the Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden. The vibrant colors of the flowers contrasted beautifully with the rugged Arctic backdrop, making it one of the most beautiful botanical gardens I’ve ever visited. 

I’m so glad that I did this tour because it showed me a side of Tromsø that I don’t think I would have seen on my own. And the great thing about it is that it’s suitable for every type of traveler, whether you’re flying solo, on a couples’ vacation, or on a big family trip! 

Grab your spot on this fun and efficient e-bike tour here!

9. Play with husky puppies at a sled dog training center 

• Duration: 4.5 hours 
• Time: 9:30 am 
• Highlights: Meeting husky puppies and their handlers, learning about the training process, watching the pups on runs and teamwork exercises, countryside hike, lunch at the husky farm
• Inclusions: Return transport from Tromsø, professional guide, farm admission, rain clothes and rubber boots (if necessary), lunch
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 60+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Dog sledding is a popular sport in Norway, and this husky farm tour was nothing short of a dream come true for a dog lover like me! My heart just melted as we were greeted by the excited barks and wagging tails of adorable husky puppies, and I briefly contemplated how I could steal them and bring them home with me! 

Just kidding – but honestly, I challenge you not to fall in love with the pups here. Some of them were just 4 weeks old! I also loved spending time with the older and more adventurous trainers. We went on a guided hike into the country with them, where we got to watch the dogs practise their training exercises. It was so impressive to see how eager the pups were to learn and show off their skills. 

I even got to walk one of the older pups, who was full of energy and loved every second of the outing. It was a fantastic way to bond with them and get a glimpse into the early stages of their training journey.

After the hike, we returned to the farm for a delicious lunch of hearty Norwegian fare. It was just what I needed to refuel after an active morning. But the best part is that we had time to cuddle and play with the pups afterwards. If you’re visiting Tromsø and missing your pets back home, this tour is a must. 

Read all of the glowing reviews and book this tour here!

10. Go ice fishing

• Duration: 5 hours 
• Time: 8:30 am or 9:30 pm 
• Highlights: Scenic drive along fjords and mountains, ice fishing in a hidden valley, enjoying hot drinks and snacks, small group tour 
• Inclusions: Transportation, tea and coffee, snacks, licensed guide, fishing equipment, reindeer hides to sit on
• Rating: 5 stars (check reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This ice fishing tour is an absolute must while you’re in the Arctic because it allows you to immerse yourself in a way of life that has sustained the people of Norway for generations. Even if fishing isn’t something that you would normally be into, it’s an amazing way to experience Tromsø’s untouched Arctic scenery.

Even the drive out to our fishing spot was incredible! The views along the way were breathtaking, but things got even better when we arrived and stepped into a real-life winter wonderland in the middle of the Norwegian summer. 

Our guide, Gudmann, was incredibly welcoming and full of fascinating stories about the region. He showed us how to set up our fishing rods and got us settled onto cozy reindeer hides right on the ice before we cast our rods. We learned how to wiggle them around to attract big fish slowly, and enjoyed hot drinks and local treats while waiting for the fish to bite. 

Perhaps it was just because the scenery was so dramatic and pristine, but the fishing itself was pretty hypnotic! The ever-changing Arctic light cast a magical glow across the landscape, and I almost felt like I was dreaming. Even if you don’t catch anything, the experience itself is worth every second. Seriously, do not miss this tour while you’re in Tromsø!

Check out all the details and book this amazing ice fishing tour here!

Where to Stay in Tromso, Norway

Now that you’ve planned the perfect Tromso itinerary, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! I recommend booking your accommodation as far in advance as possible. There are plenty of options, but they can fill up quickly! Here are my three recommendations for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay. 

Luxury – $$$

Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø is a modern hotel, located right on Tromso Harbor. There are a range of room options, from a superior room with a sea view, suites, or standard rooms. During the winter, you can often see the Northern Lights from the hotel! Onsite, you’ll find multiple restaurants and a fitness center, and it’s situated in downtown Tromso. 

Prices range quite a bit, with standard rooms starting at €350 and superior rooms with views reaching €600+. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

If you’re looking for a cozy stay with a moderate price tag, the Scandic Grand Tromsø is a great choice! Located in the central part of Tromso this hotel makes it easy to explore the city. Rooms are basic but comfortable, and the heated bathroom floors make those cold winter days bearable!

Prices for a night are €250 to €350 on average. Check prices and book this hotel on Booking.com.

Budget – $ 

There aren’t heaps of cheap options in Tromso, but the Enter Backpack Hotel is a comfortable, budget-friendly stay. They offer single, double, or triple rooms with shared bathrooms, or you can opt for a private bathroom. It’s located in the city center, has a communal kitchen, and lounge areas so it’s a great way to meet other travelers. 

Rooms start around €230 per night and can be booked on Booking.com.

Check out all the hotels in Tromso here for even more options!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure and a trip of a lifetime, a visit to Tromso will give you that, and more! We had so much fun exploring the Arctic landscape, seeing wildlife, and experiencing the far north. Even if you only check off a few items on this list, I know you’ll have a fantastic time too!

If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other travel guides. We’ve been all over the world and love sharing our favorite places and travel tips. Here are a few other guides that you might find helpful as you plan your next adventure – cheers!

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