I could start by painting a picture-perfect scene of snowy landscapes, cozy Christmas markets, the smell of freshly roasted almonds, and gluhwein, with Christmas carols playing in the background while the Northern Lights dance above your head. That’s what most people imagine when they think of Christmas in Tromsø.
I’ve checked out a few articles that pop up when you search for “Christmas in Tromsø,” and they all promise exactly that. But let’s be honest from the start.
Tromsø is a coastal town on an island, so while it can be a beautiful, white, snowy Christmas, it can just as easily be stormy and wet. The weather here is coastal, so if you’re dreaming of guaranteed subzero temperatures and snowy landscapes, Finnish Lapland might be a safer bet.
What makes Christmas in Tromsø special is the range of activities you can do—whale watching, Northern Lights tours, dog sledding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and even visiting a reindeer farm. It’s the mix of all these adventures that makes Christmas in Tromsø unique.
This article has you covered with practical info and insights that go beyond the usual hype. We’ll dive into:
👉 How Norwegians celebrate Christmas (and will there be Santa?).
👉 When and where you can actually shop for groceries and alcohol during the holidays.
👉 Why Tromsø doesn’t really have a traditional Christmas market anymore.
👉 Affordable or free activities to enjoy in the city during Christmas.
👉 Our top recommendations for paid activities—everything from dog sledding to whale watching.
👉 Which restaurants stay open during the holidays (yes, it’s limited!).
👉 Where to catch the best views of the New Year’s Eve fireworks.
So, if you’re heading to Tromsø for Christmas and NYE or just curious, keep reading to get a full overview of how to make the most of your time there!
In Norway, Christmas is all about celebrating on the evening of December 24th.
That’s when families gather for dinner and then exchange presents—thanks to Nissen, the Norwegian version of Santa Claus. It’s a cozy, family-focused evening, and the celebrations continue on Christmas Day, but the big event is definitely on Christmas Eve.
When it comes to dinner, Norwegians have a few traditional dishes to choose from, depending on where they’re from.
Some families serve ribbe (pork ribs) with all the trimmings, while others go for pinnekjøtt, which is salted and dried lamb ribs. There’s also lutefisk, which is dried fish soaked in lye—a bit of an acquired taste, but a big part of the traditional Norwegian Christmas for some!
That’s Christmas in Norway—lots of food, family time, and a visit from Nissen to make the evening special.
In Norway, Nissen—a small, gnome-like figure from Norwegian folklore—takes on the role of Santa Claus. Still, he’s a bit different from the version you might be familiar with in the U.S.
Traditionally, Nissen was thought to live on farms, taking care of animals, but only if treated well (i.e., fed porridge with butter). In modern times, he’s the one who delivers presents to children on Christmas Eve.
Regarding public appearances, don’t expect the same kind of Santa Claus setups you might find in shopping malls across the U.S. In Norway, Christmas is less commercialized in that way. You won’t see the classic Santa sitting in malls for photos with kids.
As for “Santa’s Village,” the closest thing would be in Finnish Lapland, particularly in Rovaniemi, where Santa Claus Village is a popular tourist attraction. In Tromsø, though, you won’t find anything quite like that, as the focus here is more on outdoor activities, the Northern Lights, and traditional holiday experiences.
👉 You can travel between Tromsø and Rovaniemi with the Arctic Route bus from Best Arctic. Check out more details here.
During the Christmas and New Year’s holidays in Norway, grocery store hours can vary quite a bit, but here’s a general guide:
🟠 Christmas Eve (Julaften, December 24):
Most grocery stores close early, typically around 12:00 PM or 3:00 PM. It’s a good idea to do your shopping in the morning.
(See the opening times of different stores in Tromsø on the map further down in the article).
🔴 Christmas Day (Første Juledag, December 25):
Almost all grocery stores are closed.
🔴Boxing Day (Andre Juledag, December 26):
Almost all grocery stores are closed
🟢 December 27–30:
Stores usually return to regular hours, though smaller shops might have reduced hours.
🟠 New Year’s Eve (Nyttårsaften, December 31):
Like Christmas Eve, grocery stores typically close early, around 3:00 PM.
🔴 New Year’s Day (Nyttårsdag, January 1):
Almost all stores are closed.
In Norway, alcohol sales are quite strictly regulated, so if you’re planning to cook dinner at your Airbnb and want to pair it with some wine for Christmas or champagne for New Year’s Eve, here’s what you need to know:
🍷 Wine, Champagne, and Spirits: You won’t find these in regular grocery stores. Anything over 4.7% alcohol (like wine, spirits, or stronger beer) must be bought from Vinmonopolet, the state-run alcohol store.
🍻 Grocery Stores: They only sell beer and cider with up to 4.7% alcohol. But even this is restricted: grocery stores stop selling alcohol after 8:00 PM on weekdays and 6:00 PM on Saturdays. There are no alcohol sales on Sundays or public holidays, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
⏰ Vinmonopolet Opening Hours: Vinmonopolet has even stricter hours. It’s closed on Sundays and public holidays and has reduced hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, usually closing around 3:00 PM. Make sure to get your wine and champagne ahead of time!
When you Google “Tromso Christmas Market,” you’ll find plenty of promises about cozy Christmas vibes, outdoor stalls with local crafts, a Ferris wheel, a Christmas tree, and all the festive magic you typically expect from a Christmas market.
It used to be like that, but unfortunately, that’s no longer true.
The “Julebyen Tromsø” was launched in 2021 with big ambitions to boost the city’s holiday spirit and attract both locals and tourists. The idea was to make Tromsø the Christmas city for the world. But after two years, the project was put on hold.
In 2023, the Julebyen was canceled, supposedly because of ongoing construction work on Storgata.
Instead of the traditional outdoor market, a smaller, much less festive setup with a few market stalls was organized inside the Prostneset Terminal.
It didn’t quite capture the Christmas spirit and festive atmosphere, and it seems like we can expect that again this year (2025), even though the construction work is done.
So, while Tromsø is magical in many ways during Christmas, the traditional Christmas market is on hold for now.
Let’s be honest: if you’re coming to Tromsø for the Christmas market, you’re going to be disappointed.
The market isn’t what it used to be, and if that’s your main reason for the trip, you’d be better off in the big European cities like Prague, Vienna, or Dresden, where the Christmas market scene is a huge draw.
Also, most museums, galleries, and indoor attractions will either be closed or have very limited opening hours. Open places, like the Polaria Aquarium, might be quite crowded.
But you didn’t travel all the way to Tromsø for a Christmas market or museum visits, right?
Tromsø has so much more to offer during the holiday season!
The city will still be beautifully decorated with lights, and there’s always the chance of catching the Northern Lights dancing above you. 🌌
But the best part is that most of the top activities—like Northern Lights tours, dog sledding, and even whale watching—are still available over Christmas.
So why not spend your holidays outside, making unforgettable memories? If I were to pick my perfect Christmas Eve in Tromsø, I’d head out for a reindeer farm visit and keep my fingers crossed for a clear sky and some aurora magic.
Imagine a few years from now, saying: “Remember what we did on Christmas Eve 2025? Oh yeah, that was the year we saw the Northern Lights!”
While Tromsø might be limited in terms of open attractions over Christmas, there are still a few free or budget-friendly things to do that let you enjoy the Arctic setting without breaking the bank:
Tromsø is a fantastic place for cross-country skiing, offering about 400 km of groomed trails, from forest tracks to well-lit loops and scenic mountain routes.
❄️ Tromsøya (Tromsø Island)
One of the most accessible spots, with well-maintained trails that are regularly groomed, Tromsøya offers a range of options for beginners. The flat terrain and lit trails (lysløyper) make it a great place for first-time skiers or those looking for an easy start.
Start with the Tromsø Ski Stadium area, which has several loops of varying lengths and difficulty, all close to the city center.
❄️ Tromsdalen
Located just outside the city center, Tromsdalen offers scenic, gentle trails that run along the base of the mountains. The Tromsdalen lysløype is an ideal spot for beginners, with gradual climbs and peaceful surroundings.
❄️ Kvaløysletta
For those staying closer to Kvaløya, this area provides an excellent network of easier trails. The flat, open landscapes are perfect for practicing your skiing technique without any steep inclines.
👉 For an up-to-date overview of the trails and to check when they were last groomed, you can visit Skisporet.no.
👉 If you don’t have your own gear, no worries! You can easily rent skis, poles, and boots from Tromsø Outdoor.
Ice skating is a fun way to spend a winter’s day in Tromsø, and one of the best spots for it is Prestvannet Lake. Surrounded by beautiful snowy landscapes, this frozen lake is a popular place for both locals and tourists to enjoy outdoor skating.
But is the Ice on Prestvannet Safe? Every year, the local authorities measure the ice at five different points on the lake. Once the ice reaches a minimum thickness of 15 cm, they remove the warning signs about unsafe ice.
If you prefer something more controlled or if the natural ice doesn’t seem reliable, the Charlottenlund rink is a great alternative. This artificially maintained rink is perfect for those who want a more predictable skating experience. It’s especially popular with families.
👉 You can rent skates at Tromsø Outdoor.
If you’re looking for a peaceful winter walk in Tromsø on Christmas, a few great options allow you to enjoy the snowy landscapes and fresh Arctic air without straying too far from the city.
Here are some ideas:
❄️ Prestvannet Lake
This is an easy, flat trail around a beautiful frozen lake. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll and offers a serene atmosphere in the middle of nature. You might even see the Northern Lights in the evening if you’re lucky. The path is well-maintained and popular with locals.
❄️ Telegrafbukta (Telegraph Bay)
This walk offers stunning views of the fjord and surrounding mountains, with opportunities to explore the shoreline. It’s an easy walk, and the quiet atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to reflect or enjoy a snowy Christmas day.
❄️ Tromsø Bridge to the Arctic Cathedral
The walk across Tromsø Bridge gives you beautiful views over the city and fjord. You can end your walk at the Arctic Cathedral, a landmark in Tromsø, which looks especially beautiful during winter.
While not entirely free, the Fjellheisen cable car is one of the more affordable activities to do in Tromsø during Christmas. It offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding fjords and is open on Christmas day, though it’s best to double-check the exact times.
👉 To check the opening times for the Fjellheisen Cable Car in Tromsø, you can visit their official website
👉For the most up-to-date information on opening times for the Fjellheisen Cable Car, it’s best to check their official Facebook page, as it often has more timely updates than their website, especially when there are changes due to weather.
Though it’s not free, Pust Sauna is a fairly affordable way to enjoy a relaxing experience during your stay. It’s a popular spot to warm up and unwind, especially with views of the harbor and possibly even the Northern Lights.
Pust Sauna is a Finnish-style sauna heated by an electric oven, reaching between 80 and 100°C. The water temperature in the fjord varies by season but is always cold enough to give you that perfect sauna-plunge combo.
There are two sauna options:
🔥 Communal sauna for up to 12 people.
🔥 Quiet sauna for 8 people.
You can either book a private session or drop in for a 1-hour session to share with others.
👉For opening times and booking, check their website.
If you’re looking for an indoor activity, Polaria is one of the few places open during Christmas (10 AM to 2 PM on Christmas Day). It’s ideal for families or anyone interested in Arctic marine life. Just keep in mind it’s likely to be quite busy during the holidays.
👉For opening times and booking, check the Polaria website.
If you’ve got kids or want a break from the cold, Tromsøbadet is a good option. This indoor swimming pool is perfect for families, but like Polaria, it tends to get crowded. Note: The pool is closed on December 24th and 25th, so plan accordingly!
👉For opening times and booking, check the Tromsøbadet website.
If you’re spending Christmas or New Year’s in Tromsø and want to dive into some unforgettable Arctic experiences, there are a few paid tours and activities that are worth every krone.
Sure, Tromsø city center can get a bit quiet over the holidays, but these activities will get you out into the snow and make your trip truly memorable.
This perfect holiday activity brings you up close to Santa’s reindeer! You’ll learn about the Sámi culture, feed the reindeer, and maybe even take a traditional reindeer sledding ride. It’s a unique chance to experience something truly Arctic while supporting the Sámi herders who care for the animals.
👉 There are only two companies that offer reindeer farm visits around Tromsø: Tromsø Arctic Reindeer and Tromsø Lapland.
Dog sledding is one of the most exciting ways to explore Tromsø’s snow-covered landscapes. Whether you sit back and enjoy the ride or try mushing (driving the sled), the connection with the dogs and the stunning Arctic scenery make this a fantastic winter adventure.
🐕 Tromsø: Husky Sled Self-Drive with Traditional Lunch at Tromsø Vilmmarksenter
🐕 Tromsø: Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure with Arctic Adventure Tours
If seeing the Northern Lights is at the top of your bucket list, Tromsø is one of the best places to do it.
Joining a Northern Lights tour gets you out of the city and into the best viewing locations. Many tours include professional photography, so you can focus on enjoying the moment while they capture the perfect shot of the auroras lighting up the Arctic sky.
👉Read more: 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in Tromsø (small van, minibus, big bus, basecamp)
If you’re just looking for a quick list of trusted companies, I’ll save you the trouble and name them here. (We know most of these companies personally and can confidently vouch for their excellent service.)
👉 Wandering Owl (Minibus tours up to 15px)
👉 The Green Adventure (Minibus tours up to 15px)
👉 Arctic Circle Tours Tromsø (Minibus tours up to 15px)
👉 Northbound (Small groups up to 8px)
👉 Steam Tours (Small groups up to 8px)
👉 Green Gold of Norway (Small groups up to 8px)
👉 Greenlander (Small groups up to 8px)
👉 Arctic Photo Guide (Small groups up to 6px)
👉Arctic Wild Tours (Big buses up to 45px)
👉 Best Arctic (Basecamp concept, up to 44px)
👉 Northern Shots (Big coaches up to 45px)
Snowmobiling is an adrenaline-pumping way to explore the Arctic landscape. These tours take you deep into the snowy wilderness, offering a cool mix of speed and scenery. You’ll ride through valleys, along fjords, and even up mountains, all while surrounded by breathtaking winter views.
👉 Chasing Lights will take you to Finnish Lapland for snowmobiling, and the cool part is they don’t require a driving license.
👉 Aurora Wonderland Basecamp: They offer snowmobile tours in the Lyngen Alps, but you’ll need a driving license.
This is one of the newer, more unique activities in Tromsø. You’ll float in the freezing Arctic waters in a thermal suit, keeping you warm while you drift beneath the sky. It’s a peaceful, almost surreal experience, especially if you go for a night tour where you might float under the Northern Lights.
👉Urban floating in the city is around 1000 NOK.
👉Daytime floating is priced at around 1700 NOK.
👉Night floating, which includes the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, is generally around 2300 NOK per person
During the winter months, the fjords around Tromsø are home to orcas and humpback whales. Whale watching is an amazing way to connect with nature as you cruise through the stunning fjords and watch these giants of the sea in their natural habitat.
👉 If you want to learn more about ethical whale watching and snorkeling with orcas in Tromsø and Skjervøy, check out our article: Ethical Whale Watching in Tromsø.
If you’re thinking about spending Christmas in Tromsø, one thing you need to know—book early!
Tours like Northern Lights chases, dog sledding, and reindeer farm visits are incredibly popular over the holidays and sell out fast. Hotels, too!
So, if you want to make sure you don’t miss out on the best experiences, lock in your plans as soon as possible.
Trust me, the last thing you want is to find everything fully booked when you get here. So, get ahead of the game and make those reservations now!
👉 For an easy overview of which tours in Tromsø are available, check our availability calendar.
Finding a place to eat on Christmas Day, and especially on Christmas Eve in Tromsø can be tricky since most restaurants and cafés close for the holiday.
Update December 21:
According to the local newspaper Nordlys, these are the places that are going to be open in Tromsø during Christmas.
🏬 Jekta Shopping Center (10:00 AM–1:00 PM)
Tromsø’s largest shopping mall, perfect for last-minute Christmas shopping.
🏬 Nerstranda Shopping Center (10:00 AM–1:00 PM)
A central mall with various shops and dining options, conveniently located downtown.
🏬 Pyramiden Shopping Center (10:00 AM–1:00 PM)
A smaller shopping mall catering to locals and visitors alike.
🏬 K1 Shopping Center (10:00 AM–1:00 PM)
Another mall option with shops for essentials and gifts.
☕ Backstube (8:00 AM–2:00 PM)
A cozy café offering fresh baked goods and coffee—perfect for an early Christmas treat.
🍔 BurgerMan Sentrum (1:00 PM–7:00 PM)
Fast-food burgers and fries, ideal for a quick and casual meal.
🍷 Bread and Wine (3:00 PM–10:00 PM)
A sophisticated spot for wine lovers, paired with a selection of small plates.
🍕 Casa Inferno (4:00 PM–10:00 PM)
A relaxed Italian-style pizzeria, perfect for a laid-back dinner.
🍔 Charly’s (5:00 PM–11:00 PM)
A modern restaurant serving hearty meals with a contemporary touch.
🍝 Epic (1:00 PM–8:00 PM)
A versatile spot for comfort food, including burgers, pastas, and more.
☕ Fjellheisen Café (10:00 AM–4:30 PM)
A café at the top of the cable car, offering spectacular views and light snacks.
🐟 Full Steam (11:00 AM–10:00 PM)
Seafood restaurant showcasing the best of Arctic cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
☕ Hjemmebane (12:00 PM–7:00 PM)
A local café without food service but great for a quick coffee stop.
🍺 Huken Brygg (3:00 PM–11:00 PM)
A craft beer haven with a cozy vibe, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
🛒 Joker Dramsvegen (9:00 AM–3:00 PM)
A local supermarket for picking up essentials.
🛒 Joker Storgatbakken (8:00 AM–3:00 PM)
Another supermarket option with convenient hours.
🍷 Kæsh (5:00 PM–9:00 PM)
A small, intimate restaurant serving fine wine and carefully crafted dishes.
🛍️ Koseverden (9:00 AM–5:00 PM)
A unique shop offering local and artisanal goods.
🍝 La Famiglia (3:00 PM–11:00 PM)
A welcoming Italian eatery with homemade pasta and traditional recipes.
🍺 Mikrobryggeri & Balthazar Vinbar (4:00 PM–1:00 AM)
A brewpub with a variety of craft beers and an adjoining wine bar for night owls.
🍴 Nyt (10:00 AM–4:00 PM, Food until 3:00 PM)
A modern café offering fresh, light meals and a stylish ambiance.
🍝 Pastafabrikken (11:00 AM–6:00 PM)
A casual spot specializing in delicious, fresh pasta dishes.
🍣 Rå Sushi (K1) (9:00 AM–1:30 PM)
🍣 Rå Sushi (Nerstranda) (10:00 AM–1:00 PM)
High-quality sushi for an early Christmas Eve treat.
🎁 Sabrura (Nerstranda)
Gift card sales only.
🍷 Skirri (5:00 PM–9:00 PM)
A restaurant offering local cuisine with a modern twist in a cozy setting.
🍜 Shanghai Wok (3:00 PM–8:00 PM)
A casual spot for Chinese-inspired stir-fries and noodles.
🍴 Spiseriet (10:00 AM–1:00 PM)
A small café located in the Veita shopping center.
☕ Svermeri Kafé og Redesign (8:00 AM–5:00 PM)
A quirky café with homemade treats and unique, upcycled goods.
🍕 Yonas (11:00 AM–4:00 PM)
A popular spot for pizza, perfect for a family-friendly Christmas Eve meal.
🍔 Burger King Storgata (11:00–21:00)
Fast-food burgers, fries, and shakes, great for a quick meal.
🍔 Burgerman sentrum (13:00–19:00)
Casual burgers and fries, perfect for a quick bite.
🍔 Burgerman Kvaløysletta (13:00–19:00)
A burger joint for a fast and satisfying meal.
🍷 Bread and Wine (15:00–22:00)
A sophisticated spot for wine lovers, paired with a selection of small plates.
🍴 Cous (15:00–23:00)
Serving flavorful Middle Eastern-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
🍕 Casa Inferno (16:00–22:00)
A relaxed Italian-style pizzeria, perfect for a laid-back dinner.
🍴 Charly’s (17:00–23:00)
A modern restaurant serving hearty meals with a contemporary touch.
🍔 Epic (13:00–20:00)
A versatile spot for comfort food, including burgers, pastas, and more.
☕ Fjellheisen kafé (10:00–23:30)
A café at the top of the cable car, offering spectacular views and light snacks.
🍴 Full Steam (11:00–22:00)
Seafood restaurant showcasing the best of Arctic cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
☕ Hjemmebane (14:00–19:00 (no food))
A local café without food service but great for a quick coffee stop.
🍺 Huken Brygg (15:00–02:00)
A craft beer haven with a cozy vibe, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
☕ Kaffebønna Strandtorget (10:00–17:00)
A cozy café offering fresh coffee and light bites.
☕ Kaffebønna Stortorget (10:00–17:00)
A popular café in the heart of Tromsø for coffee lovers.
☕ Kaffebønna bakeriutsalg (Stortorget) (11:00–16:00)
Freshly baked goods and coffee in a charming setting.
🍴 La Famiglia (15:00–23:00)
A welcoming Italian eatery with homemade pasta and traditional recipes.
🍺 Mikrobryggeri & Balthazar Vinbar (16:00–01:00)
A brewpub with a variety of craft beers and an adjoining wine bar for night owls.
🍔 Mcdonalds Storgata (11:00–23:00)
Fast-food burgers, fries, and shakes for a quick meal.
☕ Nyt (10:00–01:30)
A modern café offering fresh, light meals and a stylish ambiance.
🍕Pizza Express (12:00–00:00)
Straightforward pizza joint, ideal for a quick and easy meal without much fuss.
🍴 Pastafabrikken (14:00–21:00)
A casual spot specializing in delicious, fresh pasta dishes.
🍜 Shanghai Wok (15:00–19:00)
A casual spot for Chinese-inspired stir-fries and noodles.
🍴 Størhus (15:00–22:00)
A cozy spot with a focus on local cuisine and drinks.
☕ Svermeri kafe og redesign (08:00–17:00)
A quirky café with homemade treats and unique, upcycled goods.
🍕 Yonas (11:00–22:00)
A popular spot for pizza, perfect for a family-friendly meal.
🍺 Ølhallen (14:00–00:30)
Tromsø’s oldest pub offering a wide selection of beers.
🍴 Arctandria (16:00–22:00)
A seafood-focused restaurant specializing in local Arctic flavors.
☕ Backstube (09:00–16:00)
A cozy bakery offering freshly baked goods and coffee.
🍺 Bastard (18:00–02:00)
A lively bar with a great selection of craft beers and cocktails.
🍔 Burger King Langnes (11:00–22:00)
Classic fast-food burgers, fries, and shakes near Langnes.
🍔 Burger King Storgata (10:00–23:00)
Fast-food burgers, ideal for a quick bite in the city center.
🍔 Burgerman sentrum (12:00–23:00)
Casual burger spot serving hearty meals downtown.
🍔 Burgerman Kvaløysletta (12:00–23:00)
Another Burgerman location, perfect for a quick meal.
🍷 Bread and Wine (15:00–22:00)
A sophisticated spot for wine lovers with a selection of small plates.
🍴 Cous (15:00–23:00)
Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine with rich flavors and cozy vibes.
🍕 Casa Inferno (16:00–22:00)
A relaxed Italian-style pizzeria with a casual atmosphere.
🍴 Charly’s (17:00–23:00)
A modern restaurant offering hearty meals with a contemporary touch.
🍴 Dragøy Kystens Mathus (12:00–17:00)
Fresh seafood dishes served in a casual, market-style setting.
🍴 Epic (11:00–22:00)
Comfort food including burgers, pasta, and more in a laid-back setting.
🍴 Egon Sentrum (11:00–24:00)
A Norwegian chain restaurant offering a wide-ranging menu for all tastes.
🍴 Egon Jekta (12:00–22:00)
Another Egon location inside the Jekta shopping center.
☕ Fjellheisen Café (10:00–23:30)
A café at the top of the cable car with stunning views and light snacks.
🍴 Full Steam (11:00–22:00)
Seafood restaurant showcasing Arctic ingredients and local history.
☕ Helmersen (10:00–23:30)
Café and delicatessen serving coffee, wine, and small dishes until 21:00.
🍺 Huken Brygg (15:00–03:30)
A cozy craft beer pub, perfect for a relaxing night out.
🛒 Joker Dramsvegen (10:00–23:00)
A local supermarket for essentials and groceries.
☕ Kaffebønna Strandtorget (10:00–17:00)
A favorite spot for coffee enthusiasts with cozy seating.
🍷 Mikrobryggeri & Balthazar Vinbar (16:00–01:30)
Craft brewery and wine bar offering unique drinks for a relaxing evening.
🍔 McDonalds Storgata (11:00–23:00)
Fast-food chain serving burgers, fries, and shakes.
🍕 Pizza Express (12:00–00:00)
Straightforward pizza joint for a quick and easy meal.
🍴 Skarven Grill (15:30–22:00)
Serving grilled dishes with local ingredients in a cozy setting.
🍺 Skarven Pub (11:00–01:00)
A popular pub with a wide selection of beers and a lively atmosphere.
☕ Svermeri kafe og redesign (08:00–17:00)
A quirky café offering homemade treats and upcycled products.
🍕 Yonas (11:00–22:00)
Family-friendly pizza place with a variety of toppings to choose from.
🍺 Ølhallen (14:00–00:30)
Tromsø’s oldest pub offering a wide selection of local and international beers.
🏬 Jekta (10:00–15:00)
Tromsø’s largest shopping mall, great for last-minute shopping.
🏬 Nerstranda (10:00–15:00)
A central mall with various shops and dining options.
🏬 Pyramiden (10:00–15:00)
A smaller shopping center offering essentials and gifts.
🏬 K1 (10:00–15:00)
A shopping hub with a variety of stores and services.
☕ Backstube (09:00–16:00)
A bakery serving freshly baked goods and quality coffee.
🍔 Burger King Langnes (11:00–18:00)
Classic fast-food burgers, fries, and shakes near Langnes.
🍔 Burger King Storgata (11:00–18:00)
A quick and easy option for fast food in the city center.
🍔 Burgerman sentrum (10:30–23:00)
A casual burger spot for hearty meals downtown.
🍷 Bread and Wine (15:00–22:00)
A wine bar with small plates and a cozy atmosphere.
🍴 Cous (15:00–21:00)
Middle Eastern-inspired dishes in a warm, inviting setting.
🍕 Casa Inferno (16:00–22:00)
A laid-back pizzeria serving Italian-style pizza and pasta.
🍴 Charly’s (17:00–23:00)
Modern dining with hearty meals and a contemporary vibe.
🍴 Dragøy Kystens Mathus (11:00–17:00)
A seafood market offering fresh Arctic flavors.
🍴 Egon Sentrum (11:00–24:00)
A family-friendly restaurant with a broad menu of options.
🍴 Egon Jekta (10:00–22:00)
Another Egon location inside the Jekta shopping mall.
🐟 Fiskekompaniet (11:30–14:00)
Fresh seafood with limited seating, fully booked for dinner.
☕ Fjellheisen Café (10:00–16:00)
Light snacks and drinks with stunning views from the top of the cable car.
🍴 Full Steam (11:00–22:00)
Showcasing Arctic cuisine with a seafood focus.
🍺 Gründer (21:00–03:00)
A lively pub offering drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
🍣 Hav Sushi og Ramen (15:00–21:00)
Sushi and ramen served fresh in a cozy space.
🍴 Hildr (18:00)
A restaurant with one dinner setting offering innovative cuisine.
☕ Svermeri kafe og redesign (08:00–17:00)
Quirky café offering homemade treats and upcycled designs.
🍕 Yonas (11:00–18:00)
A family-friendly pizza place with generous portions and great taste.
🍺 Ølhallen (12:00–19:30)
Tromsø’s oldest pub, famous for its wide beer selection.
Disclosure: The information is from Tromsø´s local newspaper, Nordlys, published only on December 21, 2024. I took the information from there regarding December 24, 25, 26, and 31, but you will also find info there on December 27, 28, 29, 30, and January 1.
However, I believe local restaurants and businesses (and in extension, local newspapers and tourist information) really need to get better at updating their opening times on Google and their websites because, as it stands, it’s a nightmare to find the information—even for me, let alone for tourists.
Publishing this information just three days before Christmas when most of the places are already fully booked is a joke.
If you start Googling Christmas dinner in Tromsø, you’ll likely come across offers for a “Christmas table” or, as Norwegians call it, Julebord. This can be a bit confusing for foreigners, so here’s a quick breakdown.
Julebord is a long-standing Norwegian tradition, typically held in the weeks leading up to Christmas. It’s not just a regular Christmas dinner; it’s more like a big festive party. Companies, groups of friends, and families all gather for Julebord, which usually involves a large buffet or multi-course meal with traditional Christmas dishes like ribbe (pork ribs), pinnekjøtt (lamb ribs), and lutefisk (dried fish). The meal is often accompanied by plenty of drinks, including the famous Norwegian aquavit, beer, and wine.
The vibe is festive, with lots of eating, drinking, and celebrating together, and it’s more of a party than a quiet family dinner. So, if you’re looking for a cozy Christmas Eve dinner with a few traditional dishes, Julebord isn’t exactly that—it’s more of a pre-Christmas party that takes place throughout December.
When you see Julebord offers online, remember it’s typically something organized by restaurants or hotels in the lead-up to Christmas, but definitely not on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day itself.
For Christmas services in Tromsø in 2024, you do have a couple of options in English:
⛪ Tromsø Cathedral (Domkirken): They offer a Christmas service on December 26th at 5:00 PM, and the good news is—it’s in English. Perfect if you want something easy to follow, especially since most other services will be in Norwegian.
⛪ The Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen): Known for its stunning architecture, this cathedral typically hosts multiple Christmas services on December 24th, though these are usually in Norwegian. They’re advertising a 4:00 PM service on December 24th in English.
Now, here’s the thing—as with many things in Tromsø (or Norway in general), finding detailed information can be a bit tricky. So, if you’re planning to attend, I highly recommend contacting them ahead of time for confirmation. It’s better to double-check and make sure everything’s as expected!
New Year’s Eve in Tromsø is pretty spectacular! One of the highlights is the fireworks display, which is launched from the top of the Fjellheisen cable car. If you’re up for a bit of a hike or want a panoramic view, heading up there is a great option. Watching the fireworks from the harbour area at the waterfront is also a fantastic experience, with the reflections off the water adding to the beauty.
If you booked a hotel with a great view, like the Scandic Ishavshotel, you might have a front-row seat to the fireworks right from your room!
When it comes to ringing in the New Year, the restaurants and hotels in Tromsø usually organize special events or parties. For example, last year, Clarion Hotel The Edge threw a party in the style of The Great Gatsby. These events are popular, so it’s super important to book early—you won’t have much luck with walk-ins on New Year’s Eve.
On a personal note (October 2024): I know it’s easy to say, “Book early,” but what should you actually be booking? Honestly, I find getting information in Tromsø pretty frustrating.
Want details about the New Year’s Eve party at Clarion? Google shows me info from 2019! And nothing on their website. Even something simple, like finding out if hotels like Clarion the Edge, Radisson Blu Hotel, or Scandic Ishavshotel are serving a Christmas buffet on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day—I’ve come up empty.
A list of open restaurants or cafés on Visit Tromsø? You guessed it, nothing.
So here’s one for the tourist industry in Tromsø—guys, do something about your information services!!!
I’ll update this article as soon as I stumble upon more information—or feel free to drop a comment if you know something I’ve missed!
If you’re heading to Tromsø for Christmas, be prepared for a mix of Arctic charm and unpredictable weather. Here’s the real deal:
While Tromsø experiences polar night in December, it doesn’t mean 24 hours of pitch-black darkness. Instead, you’ll get about 4 hours of little daylight (roughly between 10 AM and 2 PM), where the sky takes on beautiful pastel colors—soft pinks, blues, and purples—if the weather is clear. It’s a unique kind of twilight light that photographers love, but don’t expect sunshine.
If it’s cloudy (which is often the case), the day will feel much grayer, almost like permanent dusk. Still, the Christmas lights around the city give Tromsø a cozy, festive atmosphere that makes up for the lack of daylight.
As for snow, it’s hit or miss. While Tromsø typically has snow on the ground by Christmas, there’s no guarantee it’ll be snowing when you’re there. The snow depth can vary, and though activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling usually run, it all depends on the snow conditions, which can change quickly.
It could be a winter wonderland or you might get rain, wind, and storms—it’s just hard to predict. In some years, Tromsø even sees a mix of snow and rain, which can create icy conditions, so be prepared for that too.
The coastal location of Tromsø means it’s not uncommon to have windy or stormy weather during the Christmas period. Storms can roll in fast, bringing strong winds, snow, or even rain.
Christmas in Tromsø can definitely be snowy and magical, but you’ve got to be ready for the Arctic’s unpredictable weather. You might get snow, you might get clear skies, or you could end up with some rain or stormy weather. Either way, the festive atmosphere and all the unique winter activities make it special. Just pack for all possibilities and roll with whatever Mother Nature throws your way!
So, what’s the bottom line?
The Pros: If you’re looking for Arctic adventures, Tromsø has you covered. Whale watching, Northern Lights tours, dog sledding, reindeer farm visits—these activities will make your Christmas unforgettable. The city itself has a cozy vibe with beautiful decorations, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the auroras lighting up the sky. It’s also quieter compared to larger, bustling European cities, which can be a nice change of pace.
The Cons: Tromsø’s Christmas season is busy. Prices for tours and activities go up, and they book out quickly, so you need to plan and reserve well in advance. The dining scene is pretty limited, too—most restaurants close during the holidays as Norwegians celebrate at home with their families. And then there’s the weather: you might get snow, you might get rain, or even a storm. The question of whether you’ll have a white Christmas is always up in the air.
So, are you wondering if you should visit Tromsø during Christmas or not? Sure, why not? But to be honest, you’ll have just as great a time any other time during the winter season, and planning will be a lot easier.
I’ll try to keep this article updated as businesses start releasing their opening hours for Christmas. I honestly don’t understand why most of them haven’t shared this info yet, given we’re now in mid-October with only two months to go! What also baffles me is why Visit Tromsø hasn’t gathered and made this info easily available.
Have you spent Christmas in Tromsø before? Did you manage to find places to eat out, or did you end up cooking for yourself? Let us know in the comments!
Hi! We are Ivar & Radka, an international couple who runs the Guide to Lofoten. We met in Trondheim and lived together in western Norway, Narvik and Tromsø. At the moment we call western Lofoten our home. We hope our page will make it easier for you to explore the beautiful places that made us chose Norway for our home.
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Hi! We are Ivar & Radka, an international couple who runs the Guide to Lofoten.
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