15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tromsø

The port of Tromsø, northern Norway's largest city, lies between Narvik and Hammerfest on a small island 349 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. Established in the 13th century, Tromsø remains an important fishing port, as well as a popular location from which to view and study Norway's famous aurora borealis, or northern lights.

Each year in late January/early February, Tromsø hosts the Northern Lights Festival (Nordlysfestivalen), a musical extravaganza that attracts artists and symphonic orchestras from across Scandinavia. One of the most popular things to do is experience the midnight sun, visible here from mid-May through mid-July.

Tromsø's northern location and natural harbor ensure the city remains important as a base for Arctic expeditions, as well as for the numerous Norwegian fishing vessels based here. It's also a much-used jumping-off point for ferries and cruise ships to and from major ports such as Bergen, and in summer for coastal cruises to destinations such as Spitsbergen.

Plan your sightseeing adventures in the city with our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Tromsø.

See also: Where to Stay in Tromsø

1. See the Northern Lights

No trip this far into the Arctic Circle is complete without seeing the aurora borealis, one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. Those visiting Tromsø between late September and early March have the best chance of seeing it in full swing.

Tourists who are looking for a good spot to catch them should hop on the Fjellheisen Cable Car. Open daily through 11pm, visitors will have plenty of after-dark time to ride up Storsteinen in the enclosed gondola and admire the lights and the town below from the viewing platform. There is also a restaurant at the upper station.

The Small-Group Aurora Hunt Northern Lights Tour from Tromsø takes the guesswork out of finding the ideal spot. Once your expert guide has evaluated weather and other conditions, the group will settle down around a bonfire and enjoy supper while waiting for the lights to appear and learning about the phenomenon. Once the show is in its full glory, your guide will even give pointers on how to get the best shots and will also take photos, which are sent to you after your tour.

2. Explore the Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden

Tromsø's Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden (Arktisk alpin Botanisk hage) and its unique collections are a must-see for those interested in Northern Norway's unique flora. Despite the snow, the flowering season starts early in May, rewarding visitors with displays of purple saxifrage and yellow cushion plants, pasque flowers, and a variety of flowering bulbs.

Said to be the world's most northerly botanic gardens, it's divided into 25 collections, each showcasing a different cold-weather species or region, including plants of the Himalayas, the Arctic, and other extreme climates, as well as traditional Norwegian plants. Among its most prized specimens are the giant Tibetan blue poppy and a wide variety of cold-hardy rhododendrons.

Another favorite garden features traditional medicinal plants from the region. Flowering continues until the snow returns in October.

Address: Universitet i Tromsø Post Box 6050 Langnes, 903, Tromsø

Official site: https://en.uit.no/tmu/botanisk

3. Cruise the Fjords

Tromsø's position on an island near the coast of the Norwegian Sea makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding fjords. One of the best fjords near Tromsø is Lyngenfjord, an 82-kilometer passage by the Lyngen Alps, which is a popular destination for northern lights chasers.

Boat tours of the fjords allow visitors to appreciate the beauty of the cliffs and mountain ranges that meet the water's edge. Tourists who aren't fond of boats can also find bus and car tours that explore the upper rim of the fjords. From this perspective, visitors can enjoy expansive vistas and bird's-eye views of the waterways, which provide excellent photo opportunities.

A wildlife sightseeing cruise on the traditional wooden Fjord Queen gives you the opportunity to view and learn about the Arctic wildlife in the area. An expert guide will help you spot the region's many wildlife inhabitants, including reindeer along the shore, a wide variety of birds such as puffins and sea eagles, and marine wildlife including pilot whales and even dolphins.

4. Go Dogsledding

Dogsledding first came to Norway when colonists brought it back to Europe after learning about it from the Inuit in present-day Canada. It quickly caught on due to the domesticated dogs' ability to adapt and survive in the cold temperatures while being relatively easy to breed and train. Today it is practically synonymous with arctic life, and dogsledding has become a popular activity for tourists.

In and around Tromsø there are several opportunities to meet the dogs, see how they are trained, and go for guided dogsledding tours. Tourists can also find reindeer farms operated by local Sami, traditional reindeer herders, some of which offer reindeer-pulled sled rides.

The Tromsø: Husky Sledding Self-Drive Adventure gives tourists the opportunity to learn how to drive a team of huskies and mush their way across the Arctic wilderness. Ages seven and up can participate, and the package includes mushing lessons, familiarization with your dog team, 90 minutes on the trails, Arctic-rated gear to stay warm, and hot cocoa with chocolate cake when you get back to camp. Tourists who prefer not to drive their own team can remain a passenger.

5. Learn about the Arctic Environment at Polaria

It's hard to miss Polaria, Tromsø's unique museum, dedicated to everything to do with the Arctic, and the world's most northerly aquarium. Located just a few minutes' walk from central Tromsø, the building is designed to look like Arctic ice floes that have been forced up onto land, with its exterior resembling a toppling set of dominoes.

Here, visitors will find a variety of exhibits about the Arctic, including an extensive installation showing how climate change is having an irreversible effect on the glaciers and Arctic wildlife. There's also a film about the aurora borealis (northern lights). The stars of the attraction, though, are the seals, which can be observed in a close approximation of their natural habitat.

The museum also houses the Polstjerna, a historic Norwegian seal hunting vessel that can be explored.

Address: Hjalmar Johansensgate 12, 9296 Tromsø

Official site: www.polaria.no

6. Take a Snowmobile Safari

Snowmobiling is an excellent way to explore Norway, giving visitors a chance to reach spots no car or truck could get to. Experienced snowmobilers can find several places to rent equipment with or without guides, and there are also several outfitters who provide lessons for beginners as well.

Winter sports enthusiasts will be thrilled to embark on the Lapland Lyngen Alps Snowmobile Safari from Tromsø. After a ferry ride and a quick safety lesson, tourists are provided with all the necessary gear and a two-person snowmobile. The tour explores trails through valleys and along mountainsides, including plenty of stops for photo-ops, and ends with a warm meal before heading back to Tromsø.

7. The Polar Museum (Polarmuseet)

Tomsø's location more than 321 kilometers inside the Arctic Circle makes it an ideal home base for polar expeditions. Because of this, it was named the "Gateway to the Arctic" in the late 19th century.

The Polar Museum (Polarmuseet) is one of the best places to visit to learn about the area's long history, from its discovery and first settlements to its role in the once lucrative whaling industry, which once flourished here, and its eventual transformation into a central Arctic research base.

Exhibits include historical information about some of the earliest expeditions and explorers like Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen, as well as exhibits that present the findings of the continuing extensive research.

The museum's newest exhibit, Polar Night, looks at the fascinating world of Arctic wildlife during the endless nights of winter.

Address: Søndre Tollbodgate 11, 9008, Tromsø

Official site: https://en.uit.no/tmu/polarmuseet

8. Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen)

Just before the Tromsø Bridge on the mainland sits Tromsdalen Church. Better known as the Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen), this striking example of the bold modern architecture now common throughout Norway was designed by Jan Inge Hovig in 1965.

Hovig's design ties in elements of divine worship with the Nordic surroundings, echoing the shape of ships' sails and the stark white of the ice. A major landmark and tourist attraction, this striking structure is visible from incoming flights and from Tromsø Sound. The cathedral's most famous feature is its 1,500-square-foot glass mosaic designed by artist Victor Sparre.

For a special treat, try to time your visit with one of the cathedral's excellent "Midnight Sun Concerts" held in July and August (check their website below for details).

Address: Hans Nilsens vei 41, 9020 Tromsdalen

Official site: www.ishavskatedralen.no/en/

9. Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum

One of the top things to do for free in Tromsø, the Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum is a first-rate art museum located close to both the harbor and the city's main tourist information office. Established in 1985, the permanent collections include more than two thousand works in various media from the 1800s through the present, and featured artists include Edvard Munch, Harriet Backer, and Anna-Eva Bergman.

The museum's first floor is dedicated to changing art exhibitions, all of which have a theme directly related to life in the far north. Topics covered include the effects of climate change to the struggles inherent in a region where darkness and cold envelop everything for several months each year.

Address: Sjøgata 1, 9008 Tromsø

Official site: www.nnkm.no/en

10. Look at Things Differently at the Perspective Museum

The unique Perspective Museum (Perspektivet Museum) consists of a mammoth photography collection of more than a half-million images that explore present-day and historical Tromsø. Arranged in a documentary-style presentation, the photographs not only illustrate life in Tromsø but also explore a variety of thought-provoking cultural and societal topics, which encourage discussion and enduring curiosity.

Collections include the work of both local and international photographers, as well as assorted artifacts and archives from the Tromsø Folk Museum and the Tromsø Town Museum, which contribute to its value as a cultural research center.

Address: Storgata 95, 9008 Tromsø

Official site: www.perspektivet.no/en

11. The Arctic University Museum of Norway

The Arctic University Museum of Norway's (Norges arktiske universitetsmuseum) most popular area is dedicated to the Northern Lights. As much an educational center as it is tourist attraction, this unique exhibit allows visitors to get "hands-on" with the science behind the phenomenon.

Related displays include a look at the history of aurora borealis research, a thorough explanation of what makes these lights appear, and even an area where you can create your own show in the plasma chamber. There is also a film, free guided tours, and admission includes a complimentary book about the topic.

The museum is also home to an extensive natural history department. Here, you'll learn about Arctic life, including migratory birds and sea life, as well as human history in the region. Exhibits focus on the ways humans affect the natural world, both in the short-term and long-term.

The museum also houses two ecclesiastical galleries, which feature examples of artwork from medieval German churches, as well as Norwegian art from the Lutheran Era.

Address: Lars Thørings veg 10, Tromsø

Official site: https://en.uit.no/tmu

12. Tromsø Cathedral

Constructed in 1861, Tromsø Cathedral (Tromsø domkirke) is located southwest of the main quay in the city center. This Gothic Revival cathedral is the world's northernmost Protestant cathedral and the only cathedral in Norway made entirely of wood.

The cathedral's altarpiece is a spectacular copy of Adolph Tidemand's Resurrection. Other important features include the large stained-glass windows in the front of the church, designed by celebrated artist Gustav Vigeland and installed in 1960.

To the west of Tromsø's town center stands the Elverhøy Church (or kirke). Built in 1803, this beautiful red wooden structure was originally located at the site of the city's cathedral, but was dismantled and moved in 1861, then again 100 years later to its current location overlooking Tromsø. Notable interior features include an ornately carved altar and pulpit, an organ loft, and a medieval Madonna carved in wood. It has an active congregation as part of the Church of Norway.

Address: Storgata, 9008 Tromsø

13. Science Center of Northern Norway

The Science Center of Northern Norway, home to Norway's largest planetarium, offers visitors a thrilling up close look at Tromsø's spectacular northern lights on its huge digital screen. In addition, the center offers visitors a chance to explore regional phenomena and universal questions on more than 80 interactive installations covering arctic related themes such as energy, climate, and weather, as well as resources and the environment.

One of the museum's largest exhibits focuses on the unique nature of life deep within the Arctic Circle and how this affects every aspect of life, from the economy to everyday life.

Address: Hansine Hansensveg 17, 9019 Tromsø

Official site: https://nordnorsk.vitensenter.no/?language=en

14. Take a Trip to Hella, Kvaløy

About 32 kilometers south of Tromsø on the east side of the island of Kvaløy lies the village of Hella. Here, you'll find a number of interesting attractions, including an open-air museum containing a number of houses from old Tromsø.

Also worth a visit are the Kvinnafossen Falls. Located between Leikanger and Hella, they're particularly stunning during the spring thaw, when visitors park on the road to feel the spray from the waterfall. Hella is also home to prehistoric rock carvings dating as far back as 7000 BC, one of which is open to the public for viewing; additional prehistoric carvings can be found in Tennes at the edge of Balsfjord.

15. Visit the Historic Skansen House

Starting life as a customs station in 1789, Skansen is the oldest house in Tromsø. Even older than this picturesque house and the many smaller buildings that surround it are its foundations, the remnants of medieval fortifications dating from the 13th century.

Today, the building houses a small café, which is open during the summer months and serves traditional food in a cozy atmosphere, and the grounds are a lovely area for picnics.

Address: Søndre Tollbugate 8, 9008 Tromsø

Where to Stay in Tromsø for Sightseeing

We recommend these centrally located hotels in Tromsø with easy access to top attractions like Polaria and the Arctic Cathedral:

• Clarion Hotel The Edge: This modern 4-star hotel features city and water views, contemporary decor, and a delicious complimentary breakfast.
• Scandic Ishavshotel: A great option for those seeking mid-range pricing, this hotel features beautiful harbor views, stylish decor, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a free breakfast buffet.
• Clarion Collection Hotel With: Affordable rates are the norm here, along with water views, modern decor, and a sauna and steam room.
• Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromso: This budget hotel features sleek decor, multilingual staff, and bathrooms with heated floors.

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Tromsø

• Tromsø by Foot: Tourists can get the most out of a short visit to Tromsø by taking the 2.5-hour Historical City Walk tour. Led by a local guide, this sightseeing walking tour explores the city's medieval settlement, the marketplace, and several of its most significant buildings, including Ølhallen, once the social hub for Tromsø's fishermen. The tour also includes admission and a guided tour of the Polar Museum.

Map of Attractions & Things to Do in Tromsø

Tromso - Climate Chart

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Arctic Beauty: On the northern fringe of Norway, Tromsø is close to the junction of Sweden and Finland, where you can explore the Swedish Lapland, home to Abisko National Park, as well as the Finnish Lapland. Not quite as far north but still within the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands have an amazingly mild climate and are another good vantage point for getting a glimpse of the northern lights.

Norway's Most Epic Fjords: If you are also planning on visiting southern Norway, a tour of the country's most impressive fjords is highly recommended. Sognefjord is the largest, splitting the shore into a chasm for 204 kilometers east from the coastal town of Sygnefest to Skjolden. A few hours south, the Hardangerfjord area surrounds the second largest fjord in Norway, not far from the attractions of Bergen.