Best things to do in Tromsø
Find out more about those top places in Tromsø
If you’ve ever wondered what Paris would look like if it wore snow boots and chased the Northern Lights, then welcome to Tromsø — fondly (and perhaps optimistically) nicknamed "the Paris of the North." Sure, it’s missing the Eiffel Tower and croissants, but it more than makes up for it with its own unique blend of Arctic charm, jaw-dropping scenery, and polar bear-level cool.
Tromsø Travel Guide: A Seriously Cool Northern Getaway
Located way above the Arctic Circle — so far north your phone might think you’re in Narnia — Tromsø is a top attraction in Norway’s frosty crown. This small seaside city is the social, cultural, and economic epicenter of Arctic Norway, and trust us, there's no shortage of things to do even when it's dark for half the year.
Places to Visit in Tromsø
Tromsø punches well above its (thermal-insulated) weight when it comes to places to visit. Here are the top attractions you won’t want to miss:
The Arctic Cathedral: A Frozen Masterpiece
Let’s start with Tromsø’s architectural showstopper — the Arctic Cathedral. It’s got more angles than a math textbook and is designed to echo the shimmering folds of the aurora borealis and the sharp edges of Arctic glaciers. Whether you're sightseeing by daylight or under the stars, it’s impossible to miss — and honestly, why would you want to?
The Polar Museum: Tales of the Frostbitten Brave
No Tromsø travel guide is complete without a deep dive into the daring expeditions that launched from this icy frontier. Head to the Polar Museum to hear tales of Arctic exploration, seal-hunting voyages, and Roald Amundsen’s frosty feats — because nothing says vacation like contemplating hypothermia.
The Fjellheisen Cable Car: Views with (Chilly) Altitude
Hop aboard the Fjellheisen cable car to catch panoramic views of Tromsø, the surrounding islands, and fjords that sparkle like they were sprinkled with powdered sugar. Perfect for photos, hikes — and humble brags on Instagram.
The Science Center of Northern Norway: Lights, Science, Action!
Home to Norway’s largest planetarium, the Science Center lets you get up close and personal with the Northern Lights, no frostbite required. It’s one of the best things to do in Tromsø if you need a break from the cold but still want a full dose of wonder.
Things to Do in Tromsø: Beyond the Usual
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Chase the Aurora Borealis – Tromsø is one of the world’s best places to see the Northern Lights. Just head out of town, look up, and hope the sky decides to put on a light show.
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Dog Sledding and Snowmobiling – If sightseeing by foot sounds too tame, let a team of huskies do the heavy lifting or zip across snowy landscapes like a very cold action hero.
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Visit Sami Reindeer Camps – For a cultural twist, spend time with the indigenous Sami people, feed some reindeer, and maybe even try your hand at lassoing (no promises on your success rate).
Arctic Vibes with a Side of Culture
Tromsø may be small, but it’s packed with galleries, music festivals, and cozy cafes serving piping-hot cinnamon buns (necessary when it’s -20°C). There’s even a thriving craft beer scene because, well, why not?
Final Thoughts
Tromsø isn’t just one of the coolest places to visit in Norway — it’s literally one of the coldest. But don’t let the sub-zero temps fool you. With its vibrant cultural scene, epic natural wonders, and a lineup of top attractions, Tromsø is the kind of city that makes you fall in love with winter — even if your eyelashes freeze.
So pack your warmest layers, your sense of adventure, and a few jokes about penguins (just kidding — wrong pole). Your Arctic escape awaits!
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Fjellheisen
A tour to Fjellheisen is not complete without taking a ride on the popular Tromso Fjellheisen cable car. From up there, you'll get to feast your eyes on the beautiful city of Tromso. You'll also get to see the beauty of nature unfold all around you. To complement your visit to the place, tour guides will fill you with interesting history and tales from Tromso like why the place is called "the Paris of the north". Make sure you take a camera when going there, there are sights you won't be able to trust your memory enough to keep fresh for a lifetime.
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Husky Hike
Of course, it wouldn't be called a husky hike if there aren't any huskies involved. Take your time to admire the strength and intelligence of the Alaskan Huskies that will lead you on unforgettable hikes to see the beauty of nature. You'll also get to meet the Sami people and learn about their unique way of life. You can even get to spend the night in one of the Sami tents.
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Tromso Wilderness Center - Dog sledding
If you've never taken a ride on dog- pulled sleds, you don't know what you are missing. However, a tour of Tromso Wilderness Center will place this opportunity on your table. While your sled is being pulled by nice looking Alaskan Huskies, you can feast your eyes on the beautiful mountains that surround Tromso. There's more. Over there, you'll get to listen to tales of how these Huskies are raised while you treat yourself to a nice meal of bidos which is reindeer meat.
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Ice Domes
Up on the mountains in Tamok Valley are the fascinating ice domes. Built annually just before the arrival of Polar Night, the ice domes make are a shred of evidence that nature still allows man to play with it. The people here are so prolific in the art of building these ice domes that they even build ice restaurants, ice bedrooms, and ice cinemas and the most mind-blowing, an ice hotel.
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Northern Lights
There are a few things that beat the northern lights when it comes to beauty. Treat yourself to a satisfying tour of the Northern Lights and watch like an audience as nature itself handles the show. Tromso is another place in Norway where you can get to best enjoy the sights of the northern lights.
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Fjords
While sailing on the Arctic Sea you can feast your eyes on the beautiful fjords and straits of the region. The region is also blessed with nice wildlife creatures like the majestic sea eagle, the eider ducks, guillemots, otters, reindeer, and many others. A tour around this part of Tromso will definitely be worth it.
