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Having trouble planning your Tromsø trip? We’ve got you covered!
Tucked above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is a small but vibrant city packed with natural beauty, culture, and some of Norway’s most unforgettable experiences. We’ve experienced Tromsø through snowstorms, Midnight Sun, and everything in between, and whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this itinerary covers the best of the city without the rush.
From e-bike rides and fjord cruises to reindeer stew and cozy cafés, this guide blends adventure, culture, and downtime in all the right ways. So bundle up, grab your camera, and let us show you how to make the most of every moment in one of Norway’s most unforgettable destinations.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this arctic road trip to Kvaløya! Our guide took us past fjords, arctic beaches, and stunning mountains, all while pointing out wildlife and fun facts along the way.
Itinerary Overview
Three days in Tromsø is just the right amount of time to experience this Arctic gem. Despite its far-north location, getting around is easy. The city is compact and walkable, and guided tours or local buses make it simple to explore the surrounding wilderness—no rental car needed.
Whether you’re chasing the midnight sun, cruising the fjords, or diving into Sami culture and Arctic history, this itinerary mixes outdoor adventure with cozy cafés, cultural highlights, and sweeping views. Expect wild landscapes, warm hospitality, and more than one reindeer sighting along the way.
- Day 1: Kick off your trip with a scenic e-bike tour around Tromsø’s top sights, followed by a cozy local lunch. Spend the afternoon learning about Arctic wildlife at Polaria and the Polar Museum, then unwind with a pint at Ølhallen before riding the Fjellheisen cable car to catch the Midnight Sun from above the city.
- Day 2: After breakfast, head out on a fjord cruise to fish, spot wildlife, and enjoy a fresh Norwegian lunch. Later, stroll the coast at Telegrafbukta or stop by the Arctic University Museum. End your day with dinner at COUS and a relaxed night in town.
- Day 3: Enjoy brunch before a full-day trip to Kvaløya, where beaches, mountains, and Arctic scenery steal the show. Back in Tromsø, visit the quirky Troll Museum and the iconic Arctic Cathedral, then wrap up your trip with dinner and drinks inside the Magic Ice Bar.
Day 1
Breakfast – Risø Kaffebar
Risø Kaffebar is a bright and laid-back café tucked into one of Tromsø’s oldest wooden buildings. Inside, you’ll find industrial lighting, big windows, and some of the best coffee in town—seriously, their hand-brewed filter coffee is next level! On our first visit, we grabbed cinnamon buns and a couple of flat whites and immediately knew we’d be back.
It’s also just a two-minute walk from this morning’s tour meeting point, so you can take your time without worrying about being late. The menu leans Nordic with options like pytt-i-panne (a hearty hash with egg) and lighter bites for those who want to keep it simple. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up before hopping on an e-bike and heading out to explore Tromsø on two wheels.
Morning – Explore Tromso by e-bike
Tromsø may be compact, but this small-group e-bike tour is hands-down the best way to see the city’s top sights without breaking a sweat. We booked the 10 am to 1 pm slot, which was ideal. I gave us time for a relaxed breakfast and left the rest of the day free to explore the fjords and arctic scenery.
Even if you’re not a confident cyclist, don’t stress. The electric assist makes riding a total breeze, even up hills. After a quick safety briefing and gear check, we set off to Telegrafbukta (Telegraph Bay), a sunny little beach that locals cheekily call “Tromsø Gran Canaria.” It’s got that rare Arctic-summer charm, and the coastal views were stunning.
From there, we cruised uphill to Prestvannet Lake, where the peaceful surroundings and birdwatching opportunities gave us a glimpse of Tromsø’s natural side. The smooth ride made it easy to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.
Our final stop was the Arctic-Alpine Botanical Garden, which truly blew me away—vibrant blooms framed by rugged mountains and snow-dusted peaks. It felt surreal in the best way!
We loved this tour for its mix of local insight, natural beauty, and zero stress. And we’re definitely not alone—just check out the stellar five-star reviews here to see why this is one of the top-rated experiences in Tromsø!
Grab your spot on this fun and efficient e-bike tour here!
Lunch – Knoll og Tott AS
After cruising around Tromsø on two wheels, we were more than ready to refuel, and Knoll og Tott was the perfect lunch spot. Just around the corner from where the e-bike tour starts and ends, this casual local café dishes up hearty, homemade fare in a cozy space that feels like a hidden gem.
Their daily lunch specials change often, but everything we saw coming out of the kitchen looked delicious. We went for the homemade fishcakes and a warm bowl of soup, which hit the spot after a breezy ride. It’s a popular place with locals, so expect a laid-back vibe and generous portions. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or want to linger over coffee and dessert, Knoll og Tott is a great place to relax and recharge before your next adventure.
Afternoon – Visit the Polaria Aquarium and Polar Museum
After lunch, slow things down with two of Tromsø’s top indoor attractions. Both Polaria and the Polar Museum are easy to reach on foot and offer a fascinating look at Arctic wildlife and the bold explorers who helped shape the region. They’re ideal for a relaxed afternoon, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Polaris Aquarium
Polaria may be compact, but it’s unlike any other aquarium we’ve visited. This Arctic-themed center showcases the region’s unique marine life, including bearded seals that can be observed during feeding times. There’s also an immersive panoramic film experience that showcases the northern lights and Svalbard’s frozen landscapes, which really helps you understand what life in the far north is like.
Admission is around $29 USD, and you’ll want to give yourself 1.5–2 hours to enjoy the exhibits at a relaxed pace. It’s a fun and educational stop for all ages.
The Polar Museum
Just a 10-minute walk away, the Polar Museum dives into Tromsø’s past as a launching point for Arctic exploration. Housed in an old customs warehouse from 1830, the museum is packed with detailed exhibits about legendary trappers, whalers, and polar expeditions.
We found the stories of early explorers like Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen especially compelling—tales of survival, hardship, and scientific discovery in some of the harshest conditions on Earth. This is the place to go if you want to understand how Tromsø earned its nickname: Gateway to the Arctic.
Drinks – Ølhallen Brewpub
For a post-museum drink, head to Ølhallen, Tromsø’s oldest pub and the taproom for Mack Brewery—the northernmost brewery in the world! This cozy spot has a classic Arctic feel with its dark wood interior, friendly vibe, and long beer hall tables that make it easy to strike up a conversation with fellow travelers or locals.
With over 70 beers on tap, including many brewed just down the street, it’s the best place to sample Tromsø’s local beer scene. We tried a tasting flight to get a feel for Mack’s range, from crisp lagers to darker seasonal brews, and every pour was top-notch. Ølhallen is rich in local history, and it’s a great place to wind down after a full day of exploring.
Dinner – Skarven Kro
Just a few minutes from Ølhallen, Skarven Kro is a cozy spot to enjoy classic Norwegian comfort food. The atmosphere is rustic and relaxed, with wood-paneled walls and a menu full of local staples like fish soup, reindeer stew, and Arctic char. It’s casual but still feels like a special experience—perfect after a full day of exploring Tromsø.
If you’ve got time to kill before heading out to catch the Midnight Sun, take a wander down Storgata, the city’s main street. It’s lined with lively bars and buzzing with energy in the long summer evenings, making it a fun place to grab a drink, people-watch, or just soak up the vibe of a town that’s still wide awake at midnight.
Night – Ride the Fjellheisen cable car to see the Midnight Sun
End your first day in Tromsø with one of the most unforgettable sights in the Arctic—watching the Midnight Sun from the top of Fjellheisen. This scenic cable car whisks you up Mount Storsteinen in just four minutes, where panoramic views of the city, surrounding fjords, and distant peaks await. It runs every 30 minutes and stays open until midnight, so you can time your visit for the golden hour or wait to see the sun dip just below the horizon without ever fully setting.
The viewing platform and walking trails at the top make it easy to explore or just soak in the view, and on clear nights, it’s absolutely magical. You can hike around, relax with a camera in hand, or even spot adventurous paragliders launching into the Arctic sky. Fjellheisen is about a 10-minute drive or a 40-minute walk from the city center. There’s also a shuttle bus available, which you can book in advance here.
Day 2
Breakfast – Smørtorget
Kick off day two with breakfast at Smørtorget, a cozy café tucked inside a charming vintage shop in Tromsø’s city center. Just a short walk from this morning’s tour meeting point, it’s the kind of place that feels like a local secret—casual, welcoming, and full of personality.
They serve up excellent coffee and simple, fresh bites like homemade bread with cheese and jam, avocado toast, and daily pastries that are hard to resist. It’s the perfect spot to ease into the day, especially with the quirky decor and antique shop corner giving you something fun to browse while you wait. Grab a sunny seat by the window, fuel up, and get ready for another day of Arctic adventures.
Midday – Go fishing and spot wildlife in a fjord
We’d been on fishing tours before, but nothing quite like this Arctic fishing and fjord cruise, and it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of our Tromsø trip. The tour runs from 10 am to 3 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stunning scenery, spot wildlife, and try your hand at fishing, with ample time between stops.
From the moment we stepped on board, the crew made us feel right at home. You could tell they genuinely loved what they do, which made the whole experience even better. As we cruised through the fjord, we spotted puffins, sea eagles, dolphins, and even a whale gliding alongside the boat.
The captain made several stops so we could fish, and I was lucky enough to catch a cod, which later became the star of our homemade Norwegian fish soup for lunch. It doesn’t get fresher than that!
What really set this cruise apart was how hands-on and personal it felt. It wasn’t just a sightseeing trip but a full-on Arctic experience, with time to chat with the guides, learn about the surrounding landscape, and feel immersed in the region’s coastal culture.
We can’t recommend this tour enough—just scroll through the glowing reviews here and you’ll see why so many travelers call it a highlight of their time in Tromsø!
Secure your spot on this Arctic fishing and wildlife cruise here!
Afternoon – Check out Telegrafukta Park
After your cruise, take some time to unwind and enjoy one of Tromsø’s most scenic coastal areas: Telegrafbukta Park. Just a 15-minute bus ride from the city center, this peaceful spot offers a refreshing change of pace and a chance to experience the region’s natural beauty like a local.
You can stroll along the Folkeparken Loop, an easy, flat 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete. The views along the way are stunning—coastal cliffs, rocky shores, and wide-open skies that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. It’s especially quiet in the late afternoon, making it a great time for a relaxed walk and a deep breath of Arctic air.
If you’re in the mood for a bit more discovery, pop into the Arctic University Museum of Norway, located just nearby. It’s a thoughtful museum that covers everything from Sami culture to natural history and the Northern Lights. Just be sure to go before it closes at 6 pm.
Dinner – COUS RESTAURANT AS
Wrap up your second day in Tromsø with dinner at COUS Restaurant, a cozy and modern spot in the heart of the city. This place is known for its warm service and elevated take on local cuisine, blending Arctic ingredients with international flavors in a creative and approachable way.
The menu features dishes like reindeer tenderloin, cod with creamy risotto, and house-made desserts that are worth saving room for. We especially loved how the atmosphere felt relaxed but still special, perfect for reflecting on the day’s adventures. It’s a great way to wind down the evening with a memorable meal in one of Tromsø’s most beloved local restaurants.
Related Read: Continuing your travels? Check out our guide on the top things to do in Olso and enjoy more of Norway!
Day 3
Breakfast – Koseverden&KoseligCafe
Start your final day in Tromsø with breakfast at Koseverden&KoseligCafé, one of the city’s most popular brunch spots—and for good reason. Just a 5-minute walk from today’s tour meeting point, this cozy café serves up generous portions, strong coffee, and a menu full of brunch favorites with a Norwegian twist.
From stacked pancakes and hearty omelets to smoked salmon on toast, everything here is fresh, flavorful, and served in a warm, welcoming space that lives up to its name—“Koselig” means cozy, after all. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger a little longer, but luckily, it’s close enough to your next stop that you don’t have to rush.
Full-day – Take an arctic road trip to Kvaloya Island
One of the main reasons we came to Tromsø was to experience the wild, remote beauty of Arctic Norway, and this road trip to Kvaløya delivered in every way. It was the perfect way to get out of the city and explore mountains, fjords, beaches, and maybe even spot a reindeer or two. We recommend booking the 10:30 am to 4:30 pm time slot so you’ll have the evening free for more exploring.
We met our guide, Michael, right in central Tromsø and were on the road in no time. As we drove across bridges and wound through dramatic landscapes, he made plenty of scenic stops for photos, sharing interesting stories and local insight along the way.
And the best part? Michael’s also a photographer, so you’ll end up with stunning pictures of both the scenery and yourself without having to ask.
What really made this tour stand out was how relaxed and personal it felt. With a small group, we had time to take it slow and truly enjoy the scenery. Our picnic lunch on the beach was a highlight, especially since the sun made a surprise appearance, lighting up the landscape in the most magical way.
If you’re looking for a no-stress way to experience Norway’s untouched wilderness, this is it! It felt like the kind of day you’d dream up when imagining the perfect Arctic escape—peaceful, scenic, and completely unforgettable.
Book your Kvaløya road trip tour here before spots fill up!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Afternoon – Troll Museum and Arctic Cathedral
After your scenic road trip, it’s time to pivot from dramatic Arctic landscapes to something a little more… whimsical. It’s possibly one of the weirdest things I’ve ever written, but trust me, it works. Enter the Troll Museum—yes, it’s a real place, and yes, it’s actually awesome.
Trolls are a huge part of Norwegian folklore, and this museum leans into it in the best way possible. With quirky exhibits, fun augmented reality features, and just the right level of kitsch, it’s surprisingly engaging and a great change of pace. Bonus: it’s open until 7:30 pm, so you’ve got plenty of time to swing by post-tour.
Once you’ve had your fill of mythical mischief, cross the bridge to the other side of Tromsø and visit the stunning Arctic Cathedral. With its glacier-inspired architecture and towering stained glass window, it’s one of the most photographed spots in the city—and for good reason. Whether you admire it from the outside or step in for a peaceful moment, it’s a striking way to round out your afternoon.
Dinner – Fiskekompaniet
For your final dinner in Tromsø, treat yourself to something special at Fiskekompaniet, one of the city’s most beloved seafood restaurants. Set right on the harbor, the location alone makes it worth a visit, but the food takes it to another level. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the menu showcases Arctic seafood at its finest.
We recommend going all in with a three-course meal. The fish soup is a standout starter, and mains like pan-seared cod or king crab are cooked to perfection. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between upscale and welcoming, making it an ideal spot to reflect on your time in Tromsø over a truly memorable meal.
Evening – Grab drinks at Magic Ice Bar Tromsø
Cap off your Arctic adventure with a drink in one of the coolest bars in town—literally. Magic Ice Bar Tromsø is a fully sculpted ice bar where everything from the walls to the glasses is made of ice. It’s chilly, yes, but they’ll bundle you up in a warm poncho and gloves before you head inside.
Admission is NOK 300 (€26) and includes a signature welcome drink served in an ice glass. You can book your visit in advance here, which is a good idea since it’s a popular stop for visitors looking to end the night with something totally unique. It’s kitschy, quirky, and surprisingly fun—kind of like stepping into a frozen art gallery with a bar tucked inside.
Related Read: Planning to stay longer or want to add a few extra stops? Don’t miss our full guide to the 10 best things to do in Tromsø here for even more Arctic adventures.
Where to Stay in Tromsø, 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!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Tromsø was such a unique trip, as it blended small-city charm with stunning outdoors. We loved eating all the fresh fish, checking out the unique museums, and chilling out at the ice bar. If you follow this itinerary, I know you’ll have a fantastic trip!
Need help planning your other travels? Check out all of our Europe blogs for our top recommendations and resources. After traveling for over a decade, we’ve put together guides on where to stay, top things to do, and more city itineraries. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Stockholm, Sweden: 3-Day Itinerary
Where to Stay in Reykjavik, Iceland: 4 Best Areas & Hotels
How to Spend TWO DAYS in Bruges, Belgium: 2-Day Itinerary
How to Spend ONE or TWO DAYS in Helsinki, Finland: 1 or 2-Day Itinerary