Tromsø is a beautiful city in Norway, surrounded by snowy mountains and calm fjords. It lies about 200 miles inside the Arctic Circle, which makes it one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. But Tromsø offers a lot more than just watching the sky.
From tasting reindeer stew with the indigenous Sámi people to admiring the stunning Arctic Cathedral, the “Paris of the North” has plenty to explore even before nightfall. Here’s a simple guide to what you can do in Tromsø.
Best Things to Do
1. Watch the Northern Lights
The northern lights can be seen from late August to early April. Tromsø is located at a perfect spot to catch this natural light show. You can watch the aurora from places like the top of Storsteinen or quiet parks away from city lights. One magical experience is joining a silent boat trip on an electric boat by Brim Explorer, where you can see the green lights dancing across the dark sky.
2. Learn About Sámi Reindeer Culture
The Sámi are the indigenous people of northern Scandinavia, known for reindeer herding. At Tromsø Arctic Reindeer, about 30 minutes from the city, you can meet the Sámi people, sit inside warm tents, listen to their stories, feed reindeer, take a sleigh ride, and try traditional dishes like reindeer stew. If you visit in winter, you might also see the northern lights here.
3. Try Arctic Fishing
Even in freezing temperatures, fishing in Tromsø’s fjords is popular. Many tour companies offer Arctic fishing trips where you might catch cod, salmon, halibut, or herring. Even if you don’t catch anything, the experience and scenic views are worth it. Just make sure to wear warm gloves!
4. Visit the Arctic Cathedral
The Arctic Cathedral, completed in 1965, is one of the most famous buildings in Tromsø. Its sharp, triangular design looks inspired by Arctic landscapes. Walking across the windy Tromsø Bridge toward the cathedral feels dramatic, especially at night when the stained-glass windows glow beautifully.
Where to Eat and Drink
Ølhallen
Ølhallen is Tromsø’s oldest pub, opened in 1928. It’s a cozy place to warm up and enjoy local beers. Many drinks are made by Mack Brewery, known as the world’s northernmost brewery. Try their classic pilsner and don’t miss taking a photo with the giant taxidermy polar bear inside.
Fiskekompaniet
This fine-dining restaurant near the waterfront serves the best Arctic seafood. Even though Tromsø has extreme weather—including 24 hours of sunlight in summer—the city still gets fresh produce. Fiskekompaniet offers a tasting menu that highlights local fish and flavors.
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