Best 20 things to do in Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø, the land of breathtaking landscapes and questionable weather! If you find yourself here, fear not, for we have compiled the ultimate guide to keep you entertained. Seek out the elusive Northern Lights and dance along to their shimmering disco in the night sky. Take a husky sledding adventure, and let those adorable furry friends lead you through the snow-covered wonderland while you ponder if your driving skills are more "Mush!" or "Help, I'm going too fast!" Finally, if you're feeling daring, brave the chilly waters and take a dip in the Arctic Ocean. It's like a polar plunge, but with colder water and extra ice cubes. Good luck and may the weather be ever in your favor!

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1. Tromsø Lapland

4.7 (228)

Sjursnesvegen 144, 9027 Ramfjordbotn, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø Lapland, where reindeer roam freely and the Northern Lights put on a show better than any circus troupe! This enchanting corner of Tromsø is a winter wonderland that will have you donning your warmest knitwear and channeling your inner polar explorer. So pack your sense of adventure, your thermos of hot cocoa, and get ready for a chilly escapade you won't soon forget! At Tromsø Lapland, be prepared to meet more reindeer than people, as these fluffy, antlered creatures practically run the show. From the moment you set foot in this snowy paradise, a bevy of reindeer will greet you with curious stares, as if to say, "Welcome to our hood, human!" So leave your city slicker attitude behind and embrace the whimsy of dancing alongside these majestic creatures under the dazzling Arctic sky. But reindeer are not the only stars of the show here. Oh no! Brace yourself for nature's greatest spectacle: a mesmerizing dance of lights across the velvet sky. The Northern Lights will leave you awe-struck, as if a celestial artist decided to paint your surroundings with ethereal brushstrokes. Be prepared to fall under their enchanting spell and be reminded that magic does exist - who knows, maybe you'll even spot Santa zipping by on his sleigh! So hop on a dogsled, don your cozy earmuffs, and get ready to explore Tromsø Lapland, a place where reindeer outnumber cars and Mother Nature is the ultimate tour guide. From the stunning auroras to the welcoming reindeer, this whimsical destination ensures a truly unforgettable adventure. Just beware, you may never want to leave this frozen paradise – but hey, maybe you can convince Santa to grant you Finnish citizenship!

www.tromsolapland.no

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2. Tromsø Ice Domes

4.3 (27)

Sjøgata 16, 9008 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to the whimsical wonderland of Tromsø Ice Domes, the ultimate icy paradise nestled in the heart of Tromsø! Prepare to have your expectations shattered like glacial ice as you step into this frosty haven. From the moment you enter, you'll be greeted by towering ice sculptures that seem to have escaped from Frozen, leaving you wondering if you've stumbled upon Elsa's secret hideout. Embrace your inner polar bear and snuggle up in the cozy Snow Hotel, where everything from the walls to the furniture is lovingly crafted from ice. Don't worry, you won't be left shivering like a penguin - each room comes with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags to keep you toasty throughout the night. Just don't forget to bring a good pair of woolen socks, unless you enjoy feeling your toes turn into icicles! If you're feeling adventurous, grab your ice axe and embark on an adrenaline-fueled ice climbing expedition on the surrounding frozen cliffs. You'll feel like a true mountaineer, conquering icy peaks as you marvel at the breathtaking views of the glistening Arctic landscapes. And fear not, clumsy travelers - the ice is sturdy enough to withstand more tumbles than an Olympic figure skater. So, whether you're an ice enthusiast or just in need of a cool escape from the mundane, Tromsø Ice Domes is the coolest place to be. Just remember to bring your sense of humor, because you'll be cracking more ice-related puns than you can shake a polar bear at!

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3. Tromsø Science Center

4.5 (331)

Hansine Hansens veg 17, 9019 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø Science Center, where learning and laughter go hand in hand! Brace yourself for a wacky and wonderful adventure through the world of science. Here, you can astonish your friends with mind-boggling experiments, get up close and personal with intimidating sea creatures at the interactive aquarium, and play scientist by mixing potions that may or may not turn you into a unicorn (results may vary). Just remember, in Tromsø Science Center, we take science seriously but not ourselves, so bring your curiosity and your sense of humor, and let the fun begin!

nordnorsk.vitensenter.no

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4. Fjellheisen

4.6 (2120)

Sollivegen 12, 9020 Tromsdalen, Norway

Welcome to the Fjellheisen in Tromsø, a delightful aerial tramway that will whisk you away to new heights and leave your jaw hanging lower than a penguin's flightless wingspan. Prepare to be stunned by the jaw-dropping panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, making you feel as if you're spying on the local reindeer's secret hideaway. Don't forget to bring your camera, because one snap from this mountainous marvel and your friends will be scrambling for their own one-way ticket to Tromsø!

www.fjellheisen.no

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5. Tromsø Bridge

4.5 (211)

Bruvegen, 9020 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø, where the majestic Tromsø Bridge awaits to amuse both locals and visitors alike. This wacky piece of engineering stretches across the stunning Tromsø Sound, making sure you won't skip leg day. Hold your breath, because this daring construction embraces its Nordic roots by resembling a gigantic pair of cross-country skis, which adds an extra sprinkle of adventure to your journey.

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6. Tromsø Geofarm

Aldor Ingebrigtsens veg 48, 9010 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø Geofarm, where you'll get a slightly quirky taste of farm life amidst the stunning landscapes of Tromsø! This farm is like no other, where you can frolic with cuddly reindeer, experiencing the closest thing to Santa's embrace without the added belly laughs. And don't forget to capture the perfect holiday card shot with the Northern Lights as your backdrop, making your friends back home flash a green tinge of envy! Prepare to be enthralled as Tromsø Geofarm takes farming to a new level of coolness. Here, you can get up close and personal with adorable Arctic sheep that have mastered the art of on-fleek fur, making you question your fashion choices. The talented farmers will share their secrets of herding through dance moves, proving that sheepdog trials are so passé, darling! Oh, and we can't let you leave without mentioning the unforgettable feeding frenzy that awaits you at Tromsø Geofarm. Forget continental breakfasts, because here, you can enjoy a delightful brunch with your new deer friends. Sit back and sip hot chocolate while the reindeer nibble on your waffles, creating a truly magical experience that will surely reinvent your breakfast routine. So pack your sense of adventure and a slight obsession with furry creatures, and embark on a journey to Tromsø Geofarm. Who needs a regular farm when you can have one surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Tromsø? Get ready to milk life for all its quirky goodness, and remember, embrace the unexpected—after all, Tromsø Geofarm is where reindeer dreams come true!

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7. Aurora Fjord Cruises

4.3 (6)

nerstranda, 4008 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Aurora Fjord Cruises in Tromsø, where the cuddly charm of Norwegian fjords meets the electrifying allure of the Northern Lights! Brace yourself for an adventure that takes you gliding through stunning icy waters, surrounded by majestic mountains that will make you feel like a tiny hamster on a rollercoaster. And don't fret, because our cozy boats are equipped with heating systems that could make even a penguin shed a tear of joy! Let your eyes feast on the breathtaking beauty of Arctic landscapes, where Mother Nature decides to throw paintbrushes of the most incredible colors into the sky like a toddler experimenting with a new coloring book. From the calm serenity of the fjords to the electrifying disco dance of the swirling Aurora Borealis, Tromsø will make sure your delicate human brain explodes with sheer wonder! So, brace yourself for a sensory overload that will make you question whether you're living in a postcard or trapped in a whimsical Norwegian dreamland. Not only will your eyeballs be treated like VIPs on this ridiculously picturesque journey, but your taste buds will also embark on a journey of their own! Our onboard chefs will delight you with an assortment of mouth-watering seafood dishes that will have you licking your plate like a lost tourist trying to identify fish species. Expect to savor the freshest Arctic prawns and succulent king crab legs that will make you exclaim, "Holy codfish, this is the catch of a lifetime!" So, hop aboard and get ready for an adventure that will leave you feeling like a Viking who just discovered the world's best-kept secret.

rodne.no

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8. Tromsø University Museum

4.4 (1215)

Lars Thørings veg 10, 9006 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø University Museum, a quirky and captivating destination that will sweep you off your feet, metaphorically or due to the intense Arctic winds. With a collection that ranges from ancient artifacts to mind-boggling taxidermy displays, this museum will make a historian's heart skip a beat and leave animal lovers grinning like Cheshire cats. Prepare to be transported into a time machine as you wander through the halls of Tromsø University Museum, where each exhibit is like a crazed jigsaw puzzle waiting to be solved. From Norse sagas to mystical Sami spirituality, this place showcases the history of northern Norway with an enthusiasm that would rival Santa's elves on Christmas Eve. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive stuffed seal, it's a real showstopper! As you venture deeper, you might feel a sudden desire to jump into a time-traveling DeLorean. Brace yourself as a taxidermy family reunion awaits you, featuring the Arctic's finest ambassadors, foxes and owls striking dramatic poses like they're auditioning for a Shakespearean play. If that doesn't tickle your funny bone, the museum's epic collection of creepy crawlies will surely have you swearing off any plans for camping in the wild. So grab your magnifying glass and sense of adventure, because Tromsø University Museum is waiting to unleash its history-hoarding treasures upon you!

uit.no

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9. Tromsø Cable Car

4.6 (2120)

Sollivegen 12, 9020 Tromsdalen, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø, the land of breathtaking landscapes and captivating cable car rides! The Tromsø Cable Car is not just your average mode of transportation; it's an exhilarating journey that will make you feel like you're ascending to new heights—quite literally! Prepare to be whisked away on a whimsical adventure through the skies, as you marvel at the awe-inspiring panoramas of snow-capped mountains, pristine fjords, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a polar bear doing the "cable car wave" below (just kidding, there are no polar bears... we hope)! So, hop aboard, hold on tight, and get ready for a cable car ride that will leave you dangling between sheer excitement and jaw-dropping awe.

www.fjellheisen.no

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10. Perspektivet Museum

4.4 (297)

Storgata 95, 9008 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to the Perspektivet Museum in Tromsø, where stunning exhibitions and mildly confusing layouts join forces to give you a truly unique museum experience. Be prepared to embark on a journey filled with historical treasures, thought-provoking art installations, and more twists and turns than a plotline of a Norwegian crime drama. So hold on to your hats (or snow caps) and get ready to enjoy a museum adventure like no other in the charming city of Tromsø!

www.perspektivet.no

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11. Tromsø Cathedral

4.4 (804)

Kirkegata 7, 9008 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø Cathedral, the proud inhabitant of Norway’s Arctic wonderland! Nestled amidst snow-clad mountain peaks and cheeky reindeer, this charming cathedral is a testament to the locals’ unwavering faith, even while battling frostbite. With its graceful Gothic architecture, it’s practically flirting with the Northern Lights, making it the perfect spot for divine selfies that will leave angels jealous. So, pack your sense of humor and a pair of mittens, and get ready to embark on a spiritual journey with a side of frosty hilarity!

www.kirken.tromso.no

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12. Polar Museum

4.4 (3016)

Søndre Tollbodgate 11B, 9008 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to the Polar Museum in Tromsø, where you'll embark on an icy adventure without the frostbite! This charming museum is like a freezer filled with frozen tales, showcasing the captivating history of brave explorers who looked danger in the eye and said, "Hold my hot chocolate!" Brace yourself for a chilling journey through time, as you uncover the mysteries of the Arctic and realize that penguins never made it this far north – their tuxedos were just too fancy for Norway's rugged fjords!

uit.no

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13. Tromsø City Center

4.5 (895)

Samuel Arnesens gate 5, 9008 Tromsø, Norway

Nestled in the heart of the Arctic, Tromsø City Center welcomes you with open arms, or rather, with cute, fuzzy mittens. This enchanting hub embodies the perfect blend of modern marvels and quirky charm, guaranteed to captivate your senses like a penguin on a surfboard. Discover the lively streets lined with colorful wooden houses, where you can sip hot cocoa and weave your own woolly socks, because let's be honest, it's practically mandatory here.

www.visittromso.no

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14. Tromsø Villmarkssenter

4.6 (40)

Storgata 61, 9008 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø Villmarkssenter, where you'll discover a winter wonderland that will make you forget all your worries and turn you into a snow-drenched enthusiast. Picture yourself gliding through the snowy landscapes with huskies, their wagging tails providing the soundtrack of pure joy. And fear not, you don't need to be an Olympic athlete to join, just remember to hold on tight and avoid unintentionally participating in canine sled racing!

www.villmarkssenter.no

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15. Prestvannet Lake

4.3 (50)

Prestvannet, Tromsø, Norway

Nestled in the charming city of Tromsø, Prestvannet Lake is a haven for the visually inclined who suffer from an insatiable love for breathtaking landscapes. Picture this: a pristine body of water surrounded by lush greenery and friendly ducks just asking you to join their exclusive floating club. You can stroll along the scenic walking trails, like a fancy peacock flaunting its feathers, and pretend you're auditioning for "The Great Hiking Race."

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16. Ølhallen

4.5 (2464)

Storgata 4, 9008 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Ølhallen in Tromsø – a beer-lover's paradise disguised as a time capsule! Step into a place where fairy lights illuminate ancient beer signs, and the floor is sticky with history (and maybe a few spilled pints). As you navigate through this labyrinth of wooden tables and local characters, be ready to embrace the true spirit of Norwegian drinking culture, where Vikings would raise their horns in approval. Cheers and skål!

www.mack.no

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17. Tromsø Museum

4.4 (1215)

Lars Thørings veg 10, 9006 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø Museum, where the past gets a hilarious makeover! Explore the oddities of Arctic life, from bizarre taxidermy specimens that resemble the aftermath of a wild costume party to exhibits showcasing the evolution of the notorious Norwegian sweater fashion. Don't miss the "Awkward Polar Bear Encounter" exhibit, where you can role-play as a nervous tourist trying to take the perfect selfie without being mauled by a stuffed bear.

uit.no

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18. Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden

4.6 (783)

Universitet i Tromsø Post Box 6050 Langnes, 9037 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to the Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden, where even the polar bears swap their fur coats for something with a little more color! Nestled in the icy realms of Tromsø, this garden is like a quirky botanical oasis in the midst of the frozen wonderland. From whispering flowers to sneaky squirrels with a sassy attitude, this place is sure to make even the most stoic explorer burst into giggles. So grab your thermals and prepare for a botanical adventure that’s as cool as a penguin skiing downhill!

uit.no

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19. Tromsø Wilderness Centre

4 (5)

Straumsvegen 603, 9109 Tromsø, Norway

Welcome to Tromsø Wilderness Centre, where the Arctic's quirkiest adventures await! Nestled in the heart of Tromsø, this one-stop-shop promises to bring out the wild adventurer in you. With activities like husky sledding, reindeer spotting, and polar bear tickling (just kidding!), you'll have enough Instagram-worthy moments to last a lifetime.

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20. Arctic Cathedral

4.3 (5308)

Hans Nilsens veg 41, 9020 Tromsdalen, Norway

Nestled on the frosty shores of Tromsø, the Arctic Cathedral stands tall like a frozen symphony in architectural wonder. With its iconic scalloped façade resembling an igloo made by a fashionable giant, this quirky cathedral is a sight to behold. Bursting with charm, it promises to take you on a whimsical journey to the North Pole, minus the polar bears and yeti sightings (we hope).

www.ishavskatedralen.no

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tromsø by plane is to fly into Tromsø Airport (TOS) which has direct flights from major cities in Norway such as Oslo and Bergen, as well as international cities such as London and Helsinki.

Car

Driving to Tromsø is possible but can be challenging due to the long distance and weather conditions in northern Norway. The E6 highway connects to Tromsø, but it is recommended to have a 4-wheel drive vehicle and be prepared for snow and icy conditions.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Tromsø due to its location in the far north of Norway. The closest train station is in Fauske, but a bus or car would then be necessary to get to Tromsø.

Boat

Tromsø can be reached by boat from some coastal towns in northern Norway such as Harstad and Svolvær. The Hurtigruten coastal ferry service also stops in Tromsø on its route along the coast of Norway.

Bus

The best way to get to Tromsø by bus is to take a coach from Oslo or Narvik, both of which have direct bus connections to Tromsø. The journey from Oslo takes around 24 hours and from Narvik around 5 hours.

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