Tromso in Winter | Norway’s Arctic Adventure Playground
Watch the extraordinary Northern Lights dance in the sky and ski across magical landscapes during winter in Tromsø, Norway. As a gateway to the Arctic, dramatic fjords and snowcapped summits surround cosy restaurants and fascinating museums for warming up during the Polar Night season.
Though you’ll certainly need to rug up in the absence of the sun, the twilight hours create a unique and enchanting atmosphere between late November and January.
Along with catching exciting glimpses of the Aurora Borealis, tours help you see whales and orcas migrating south via Tromso’s shores.
After fun days of snowshoeing and ice skating, book pampering treatments at luxury spas or join the locals at floating saunas. And there’s always the chance for retail therapy whether you love designer brands or handicrafts at twinkling Christmas markets.
Tromso Winter Weather
Pack your thermals, waterproof jackets and footwear, and layering accessories such as scarves, gloves and beanies to stay toastie and enjoy winter activities in Tromso (see our product suggestions here).
Tromso in December
Polar Nights are well underway in December, when the sun remains below the horizon, but blue-tinged twilight and Christmas lights deliver the cheer. Expect average highs of 0°C and lows of -4°C.
Tromso in January
The sun starts to reappear by the end of January and it’s peak season for snow sports with an average temperature of -2°C. Keep in mind though, that temperatures can drop much lower, especially when chasing Northern Lights in remote areas.
Tromso in February
Enjoy brighter days for outdoor activities in February along with plenty of cultural events when you’re not skiing or ice skating. Temperatures hover around -1°C and -5°C.
Packing Essentials
Kari Traa Merino Base Layers
Designed by an Olympic skier from Norway, these base layers are amazing for keeping the cold at bay while not restricting you on outdoor adventures. I lived in mine in Tromso.
Gore-Tex Gloves
Gore-tex gloves allow you to stay warm and dry, even after a snowball fight. These ones also allow you to use your finger for your phone.
Ice Cleats for Boots
An absolute lifesaver when walking around the icy streets of Tromso! I saw many people slip-sliding around, but having these on my boots really made me feel secure.
Best Things to do in Tromso in Winter
Do you feel like snowboarding, whale watching or sipping mulled wine at the markets? You can do all that and so much more! Here’s what to do in Tromso in winter.
Watch the Northern Lights
All you have to do in Tromso is look up on dark, cloudless nights and there’s a fairly good chance you’ll see the spectacular swirling colours of the Aurora Borealis. Smack bang in the middle of the Northern Lights Oval, the city is one of the best areas in the world to see them, even when you’re in the centre of town (we could see them from our hotel room window!).
As visiting Tromso is often a ‘once in a lifetime’ trip, most people book northern lights tours to more remote areas to make the most of it. Local guides take you to a range of viewpoint locations, away from the city light pollution, in private cars or minibuses for small groups.
Generally, the guides are experts in photographing the lights, so you’ll get lots of tips on how to take the best photos. Alternatively, hop on the Fjellheisen cable car to soar high with panoramic views of the natural show.
Ride the Fjellheisen Cable Car
Speaking of the cable car, it’s a must-do activity in Tromso too – even more so in winter when a snowy scene awaits you. Perhaps the best time to go is once the polar night has ended, as the daytime views are expansive and rewarding. But visiting at night, or during the dark days of January will also thrill you as city lights illuminate the landscape.
The short but steep ride up Storsteinen Mountain is thrilling, and the walk to the viewpoint can be even more so when the wind is blowing! The onsite cafe serves hot coffee & tea, plus hearty cinnamon buns to warm you up before the descent.
It pays to book your ticket in advance, as it does sell out at peak times. This ticket includes transport from the centre of Tromso to the cable car station and back to save you from having to worry about finding a taxi or taking public transport.
Take Part in Snow Sports
Powder snow on mountain peaks is on the doorstep of Tromso, with a ski season that lasts from December to May. If you’re an experienced skier, the off-piste action is at Lyngen and Senja on day trips (more on those below), along with Finnlandsfjellet in Kvaloya.
On Ringvassoya island, you’ll ski through forests with views of the Lyngen Alps. It’s easy to book ski touring adventures with local guides, and it’s recommended to find the best conditions safely.
Otherwise, Tromso Alpinpark is just a 15-minute drive from the city centre with equipment rentals and handy lessons. Five trails ensure there’s a slope to suit everyone, including children and beginners. Zip down the toboggan slope and warm up with hot chocolate and waffles at the restaurant.
Watch Wildlife
Whether you’re hiking or on a road trip, it’s possible to spot reindeer and sea eagles in the Arctic wilderness. And from November to January, giant marine mammals follow herring shoals around Skjervoy’s fjords.
While you might spot them from land, it’s best to book a boat tour to get up close to orcas, minke and humpback whales.
For a different animal adventure, delve into the history and traditions of the Sami Indigenous people of the North. Those involved with reindeer husbandry still move with herds to grazing areas in summer.
In winter, local herders host reindeer sleddding rides and feeding sessions, followed by traditional cuisine and folk songs by the fire.
Go Ice Skating and Snowmobiling
Follow the locals to magical frozen lakes for ice skating, which is one of the most popular things to do in Norway in winter.
Framed by a nature reserve, Prestvannet Lake is a top choice (conditions permitting). Take a spin around the most northern outdoor speed skating track in the world at Tromsdalen. You won’t have to worry about the weather at the indoor Tromso Ishall rink.
Up the excitement by speeding across fairytale winter landscapes on a snowmobile. Along with weaving through forests and soaking up mountain views, you might spot moose and reindeer along the way.
You don’t need previous experience for snowmobile tours, where two people typically share a snowmobile, but the driver needs a valid car licence.
Enjoy Arctic Architecture
It’s impossible to miss Tromso’s Arctic Cathedral, especially when the glass mosaic window called ‘Return of Christ’ is brilliantly lit at night. Built in 1965, the design of concrete panels and glass was inspired by ice and snow.
Inside, you’ll see dazzling prism chandeliers, oak pews and a magnificent organ that’s designed to represent floating ice and sails.
Take a trip to the Tamok Valley and the enchanting Tromsø Ice Domes. They’re rebuilt every year to coincide with Polar Nights and feature stunning themed ice sculptures with special effects lighting.
Enjoy shots at the Camp Tamok ice bar and join in with winter activities before staying overnight under an ice roof – in a cosy polar expedition sleeping bag.
Relax in Saunas and Spas
What’s thought to be a secret to a long and healthy life, sauna culture thrives in Tromso, so pack your swimwear and a towel!
Pust is one of the most popular, offering a classic Finnish experience. Meaning, you jump into the icy water first if you dare. It’s located in the harbour with fantastic views of the skyline.
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to luxury spas for pampering. The Vulkana Spa Boat is a floating sauna complete with a Turkish hammam, cold water pool, saltwater tub and a licensed bar.
Or sink into zen after dark with a spa session at Tromsøbadet. The complex features a heated pool, steam room and sauna, as well as a cold plunge pool for anyone wanting the full experience!
Attend Winter Festivals
Tromso does anything but hibernate during winter. Time your winter trip with the Tromso International Film Festival in January to watch screenings at the outdoor cinema in the city square. Held across numerous days in January and February, the Tromso Northern Lights Festival is a live music extravaganza with a strong focus on classical music from local and international performers.
Runners from around the world join the PolarNight Marathon. Choose your distance according to your fitness level and watch out for Northern Lights as you jog. Pack something glittery for New Year’s Eve celebrations at restaurants and clubs before and after the fireworks. Each year, the Arctic Cathedral hosts a concert featuring organ music.
Shop Christmas Markets and Souvenirs
A magical blend of the Northern Lights and streets decked in Christmas fairy lights greets you in December. Stroll around market stalls in the town centre to buy handmade gifts and knitted hats.
At any time in winter, fill your bags with treasures at shops along the main street, Storgata. You’ll find everything from designer fashion brands to souvenirs and foodie gifts at quaint cafes.
Pop into Galleri Nord for sculptures and handicrafts by local artists. For traditional Sami products, such as wooden cups and shawls, visit the Tromso Gift and Souvenir Shop. Also in the city centre, Nerstranda shopping centre is a great stop for indoor retail therapy. If you’re near the airport, Jekta shopping centre is one of Norway’s biggest.
Visit Art Galleries and Museums
Rug up, put your comfy boots on and walk to most museums and galleries in and around the town centre and beyond. The Northern Norwegian Science Center is the ideal place to take kids, and I guarantee the adults will have fun learning about science here too!
At the Northern Norway Art Museum (Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum), admire Northern and Sami art across 200 years including landscape paintings and photography. The home of contemporary art is Tromso Kunstforening, and Perspektivet Museum showcases the life of author and artist, Cora Sandel.
The Polar Museum is another one for the whole family, with exciting exhibits about Arctic adventurers on polar expeditions. Delve into the Viking Age at the Arctic University Museum of Norway with fossils and a whale skeleton. Perhaps the most endearing though, is the Troll Museum full of Norwegian folklore and fairy tales.
Enjoy Drinking and Dancing
Foodie culture in Tromso revolves around traditional Arctic fishing, hunting and gathering fresh produce from farms straight to your plate. However, the city is also nicknamed the ‘Paris of the North’ for its thriving international scene of gourmet flavours and chic restaurants. Stockfish (torrfisk), is a traditional must-try and the Christmas version you’ll see on menus is soaked in lye (lutefisk).
After dinner in winter, the nightlife doesn’t slow down with the cold. Tromso’s oldest pub, Olhallen opened in 1928 and it’s a cosy place to settle in with Norwegian brews. Check the schedule at Prelaten for music concerts and comedy shows. If you spend the evening at the Skybar of Clarion Hotel The Edge, you might see the Northern Lights as you sip creative cocktails. Or dip into the Magic Ice Bar to sip cocktails on an ice throne.
Related Reading: Visiting Oslo in Winter
Best Day Trips from Tromso in Winter
With tour operators or bus rides, it’s easy to set off on day trips from Tromso to wintry landscapes for spectacular photo opportunities and thrilling activities.
Kvaloya and Sommarøy
Located across the bridge from Tromso airport, Kvaloya is one of Norway’s largest islands. It’s a haven for nature lovers along with its neighbour, Sommarøy, where white sand beaches rest under blankets of snow. On a backdrop of soaring fjords and mirror-like lakes, seals, eagles and reindeer wander free.
Magnificent viewpoints set the stage for chasing Northern Lights and spotting humpback whales even when you’re not on a polar fjord cruise. Stop at pretty little fishing villages framed by towering peaks, such as lakefront Tromvik and Ersfjordbotn. Hire guides to explore an abundance of stunning ski and snowshoe trails.
Senja
Norway’s second-largest island features dramatic postcard scenes at every turn, especially of majestic snowy mountains such as Husfjellet and Hesten. You’ll need a local guide to go skiing off-piste in Senja, but it’s one of the top spots for heart-pumping trails with panoramic sea and fjord views.
Set out on prepared cross-country skiing trails around Mefjord Brygge or take the challenge of ice climbing with expert guides. Among many extraordinary viewpoints to spot whales or Northern Lights, Tungeneset is part of the Norwegian Scenic Route and features a pathway between Seinsfjord and Ersfjord. Typically, day trip tours include a bus ride to Kvaloya where you’ll catch the ferry to Senja.
Lyngen Alps
About 90 minutes from Tromso, the extraordinary Lyngen Alps create outdoor adventure playgrounds across the Lyngen Peninsula. It’s all about snowshoe summit hiking and ski touring here, with trails to suit families and hardcore thrill seekers looking for a challenge. There’s a clear, signposted trail for snowshoeing to Truiskufossen waterfall with views of the Reisafjord and Sorkjosen village. Alternatively, jump aboard a snowmobile tour.
Warm up and relax with a handcrafted tipple at Aurora Spirit, the world’s northernmost distillery. It’s not far from Lyngseidet, the town centre on the shores of the Lyngenfjord with a smattering of shops and restaurants. As a remote region full of panoramic views, it’s worth considering an overnight stay for a Northern Lights guided tour.
Where to Stay in Tromso in Winter
There’s no getting around the fact that Tromso isn’t a budget destination – staying here for any length of time is going to cost you a pretty penny. Book well in advance if you want to be able to take your pick of Tromso hotels, as they do get booked up in advance – especially during winter! I’d also suggest staying as central as possible during the winter months to avoid having to walk too far or waiting around in the cold for buses.
Here are some of the best places to stay in Tromso in winter:
We stayed at the Scandic Grand Tromsø twice during our trip to Norway, and it was perfect for our needs. Our family of three comfortably fit in a family room. And on both occasions, we were upgraded to a superior room which has amazing views over the town and the fjord. The free breakfast was simple, but filling and there was more than enough choice for vegan diets too.
The Scandic Ishavshotel is a popular choice too, due to its waterfront location. It also offers a range of rooms, including family rooms and suites, to suit all groups.
Enter City Apartment Hotel is ideal for anyone who wants to keep costs down by self-catering while in Tromso. Each apartment has a kitchen and washing machine making for a convenient stay.
Final Tips for Visiting Tromsø in Winter
- The best time to visit Tromso varies depending on your must-do’s while there. For example, the whale-watching season runs from late October to late January. Whereas, if you want some daylight hours, it’s best to visit in February or March. Luckily, the northern lights can be seen throughout winter.
- I wouldn’t recommend hiring a car when visiting Tromso in winter. I considered it for our trip, but I’m so glad that we went without. Taxis are reasonable (download the Taxifix app), and most tours will pick you up from the city centre, so there’s no need. Plus, the roads are treacherous for those not used to driving on snow and ice!
- If seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, I’d recommend booking two Northern Lights chases to maximise your chances of the weather conditions being optimal. If you book them with a day in between, you can always cancel the second tour (GetYourGuide has a 24-hour cancellation policy for most tours), if you strike gold on your first try!
With the bucket list wish of spotting the Aurora Borealis and the chance to experience remote, snowy landscapes for skiing and snowshoeing, winter in Tromso is unforgettable.
Surrounded by beautiful fjords and icy lakes, you’ll feel like you’re moving between scenes in a blockbuster nature documentary. And it’s always an extra special treat to sink into bliss at saunas or relax by roaring restaurant fires after epic outdoor adventures in winter.
