Planning a trip to Tromsø in winter and not sure how long time to spend there and what to do in Tromso in winter? From November to April, Tromsø transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a perfect mix of Arctic adventures and a bit of city life – by Norwegian standards, of course. With so many things to do in Tromso, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide to what to do in Tromsø in winter!
Surrounded by stunning fjords and mountains, Tromsø is the biggest city in northern Norway. But don’t expect total wilderness when you land – the airport is just a 20-minute bus ride from the city center, and you’ll find plenty of great restaurants, coffee shops, bars, museums, and galleries.
Tromsø has seen a huge tourist boom recently, with more and more tour providers popping up. You’ll find everything from classic Tromso winter activities like Northern Lights chasing, dog sledding, and fishing to more unusual activities like a Northern Lights safari on an electric scooter or even Arctic floating. There’s something for everyone!
So, are you ready to learn about the best things to do in Tromso in winter?
Just a quick note about us:
We are Ivar and Radka and now live in Lofoten, Norway. However, we used to live in Tromsø, where Radka worked for a company that organized northern lights tours, sailing, and sightseeing trips, and resold other activities like whale watching and reindeer farm visits.
We didn’t just visit Tromsø on a short trip sponsored by the local tourist board, as is common in the travel blogging world. We’ve personally tried most of the activities we mention in this article, and the companies we recommend are either ones we know or have heard great things about through our network of friends in the tourist industry in Tromsø.
Before we dive into the best things to do in Tromso in winter, let’s just remind you that we’ve written a few other helpful articles about the area:
👉 What to expect from Tromsø in winter – where we cover how to get there, get around, what the weather’s like, and more.
👉 The Best Northern Lights tours in Tromsø —not all tours are the same, so we recommend providers we’ve had great experiences with, from small active tours to big buses or stationary Aurora camps.
👉 Best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø – we break down why there’s no “perfect” time and why joining a tour might be your best bet.
👉 The ultimate guide to whale watching in Tromsø – where we discuss ethical whale watching (or the issues around it) and give tips for tour providers we trust.
👉 Our guide to the best hotels in Tromsø – we don’t just throw names around; we’ve actually stayed at 8 different hotels in Tromsø and share our honest reviews.
👉 Visiting a reindeer farm in Tromsø – hands down, our favorite activity in Tromsø and a must-do if you’re traveling with kids.
👉 Best Apps for Aurora Tracking – for those who want to dive into the science behind the Northern Lights or try chasing them on your own.
👉 Winter Packing List – originally written with Lofoten in mind, but honestly, you can use it for all of northern Norway.
Check them out if you want to learn more about visiting Tromso in winter!
Hunting for the Northern Lights in Tromsø is one of those bucket-list dreams for many people, and it’s often the main reason they choose to travel to Norway in winter.
With more than 100 companies offering Northern Lights tours, you’ve got plenty of options. Some tours are all about chasing the auroras (or rather clear skies), while others offer nighttime activities like dog sledding or reindeer sledding with a chance of seeing the northern lights.
The question “What’s the best time/month to see the Northern Lights?” pops up so often in our FB travel groups that we wrote an entire article about it.
The bottom line is that if you’re joining a Northern Lights tour, it doesn’t matter which month you pick as long as it’s within the Northern Lights season.
That season in Tromsø typically runs from late August to mid-April, but most tour operators run tours between September 15 and March 31.
Tromsø is located right under the aurora oval, meaning that even when solar activity is low, clear skies can still give you a good chance to see the lights.
Another big plus is Tromsø’s location, which allows tour operators to head in different directions depending on the weather.
So, don’t stress about the weather forecast in Tromsø if it says rain or clouds – that’s what you’ve hired your Northern Lights guide for. They’ll read the forecasts, find the best spot with clear skies, and get you there.
There’s no need to cancel a tour based on a bad Tromsø forecast – unless the weather’s terrible everywhere, in which case the good operators will cancel it themselves.
Just keep in mind, the aurora is a natural phenomenon, and no one can guarantee you’ll see it. Your guide will do their absolute best, but come with the mindset of enjoying a night out in nature.
Absolutely, and here’s why.
While you can technically see the Northern Lights on your own, booking a tour takes the stress out of the whole experience.
You’re paying for local experts who know exactly where to go and what conditions are best, which means better chances of actually seeing the lights.
They’ve got tons of experience chasing clear skies, and if that means driving into the middle of nowhere or even across the border into Finland, they’ll do it.
Plus, they’ll handle all the little details – from reading complicated weather forecasts to knowing the best spots to avoid light pollution.
More than 100 tour operators in Tromsø offer Northern Lights tours, so it can be tough to choose the right one.
Here are a few tips to help you make a decision:
✅ Look for a tour operator with a good reputation.
Read reviews from past customers to get an idea of the quality of the tours offered by different companies.
✅ Consider the group size.
Some people prefer small, intimate tours, while others prefer larger ones because of the price or convenience of having a WC on board a big bus.
We wrote a detailed article on how to choose the best Northern Lights tour for your needs, and we also recommend some top-notch tour providers.
However, if you’re just looking for a quick list of trusted companies, I’ll save you the trouble and name them here.
Most of these companies we know personally, and we 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)
👉 Arctic Wild Tours (Minibus tours up to 15px)
👉 Greenlander (Small groups up to 8px)
👉 Northbound (Small groups up to 8px)
👉 Arctic Photo Guide (Small groups up to 6px)
👉 Green Gold of Norway (Small groups up to 8px)
👉 Arctic Wild Tours (Small groups up to 8px)
👉 Arctic Wild Tours (Big coaches up to 44px)
👉 Northern Shots (Big coaches up to 45px)
👉 Best Arctic (Basecamp concept, up to 44px)
You can sometimes spot the Northern Lights from downtown Tromsø on clear nights with good aurora activity.
But honestly, you’ll have a way better experience if you head to a spot with less light pollution.
One of the best places to catch the lights is from the top of the cable car that takes you to Mt. Fløyen. The views up there are incredible.
If you’re looking for more options, Lake Prestvannet and Telegrafbukta Beach are also solid choices for a Northern Lights show!
👉 See more tips for northern lights viewing locations in our map of Tromsø!
Even though the Northern Lights are in the sky year-round, you can only see them when it’s dark enough.
In Tromsø, the Northern Lights season typically runs from late August to mid-April, but most tour operators run tours between September 15 and March 31.
As we’ve mentioned before, there isn’t a “best” month within that season for seeing the auroras if you’re booking a tour or prepared to chase clear skies (check out our article, where we explain why that’s the case).
The best advice? Plan your trip around other activities you want to do in Tromsø!
The price of a Northern Lights tour in Tromsø depends on the type and size of the tour you choose. Generally, you’re looking at anywhere between NOK 1800 (Wandering Owl Express 4-hour tour) and NOK 2700 per person.
Just a quick tip: it’s usually a red flag if you come across a significantly cheaper tour than others. Most likely, the operator doesn’t have all the proper paperwork and is cutting corners. It’s always best to go with someone reputable to make sure you’re in safe hands and get the experience you’re paying for!
👉 Book Early!
We can’t stress this enough—book as soon as possible! Most companies open their booking calendars right after the previous season ends. Right now, at the end of September, the companies we work with are almost fully booked until the end of January.
👉 Check What’s Included
Some tours provide thermal suits and boots, while others don’t. Always double-check what gear is provided and what you might need to bring, like a tripod for those perfect aurora photos.
Also, some companies offer photos for an extra fee, which can balance out the price of a ‘cheap’ tour compared to a more expensive tour that includes pictures in the price.
👉 Manage Your Expectations
Seeing the Northern Lights depends on clear skies and solar activity, which is tough to predict. Your guides will do everything they can to find the best spot, but they can’t guarantee a showstopping aurora every night.
The most accurate aurora forecast only covers the next 30 minutes!
Dog sledding is one of the best things to do in Tromso if you want a fun and unique Arctic experience!
Before the adventure even begins, a visit to the dog kennel is always a hit, especially for kids—they can cuddle with the friendly huskies and sometimes even meet husky puppies! 🐾
The dog sledding is great fun, though it’s surprisingly more physical than expected. Sometimes, you’ll need to help the dogs out by pushing the sled or even hopping off and pushing it like a skateboard when going uphill.
There are typically two dog sledding tours to choose from: guided dog sledding or self-guided tours.
On guided husky sledding, a professional guide drives the sled, and you sit in the sled, take pictures, and enjoy the ride.
This type of dog sledding is perfect for families with young children, people with medical conditions or physical restrictions, and those who want to chill and take it all in.
🐕 Tromsø: Guided Husky Sledding with Traditional Lunch at Tromsø Vilmarkssenteret
On a self-drive dog sled safari, you get to be a musher (the sled driver) for the day.
Don’t worry if this is your first time trying it. Driving a sled is straightforward, and the dogs know what to do. You steer, break, and now and then, you might need to jump out of the runners and help the dogs.
It can be a physically demanding activity, but it is also a great way to get some exercise and experience the thrill of being a musher.
The sleds require one person to sit in and one person to drive them. You will change positions halfway. If you are a solo traveler, you will be paired up with somebody.
The self-drive tours have an age limit of 16 years.
🐕 Tromsø: Husky Sled Self-Drive with Traditional Lunch at Tromsø Vilmmarksenter
🐕 Tromsø: Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding Adventure with Arctic Adventure Tours
The dog sledding season in Tromsø runs from early November to early April, depending on snow conditions.
Most people think of dog sledding as a classic winter activity, but you don’t have to wait for the snow if you’re eager to meet the huskies!
Many kennels offer fun alternatives like wheeled cart tours, puppy training, husky walks, and kennel visits where you can learn about the sport’s history, how the dogs are trained, and—of course—cuddle with the huskies and puppies. 🐾
The price for dog sledding tours typically starts around 1790 NOK and can go up to 3000 NOK per person for a half-day trip.
Yeah, I know it’s a bit of money, but here’s why: taking care of sled dogs isn’t cheap. The winter dog sledding season is pretty short, but the dogs need to be fed, trained, and cared for all 365 days of the year. It’s a lot of work to keep them in top shape, reflected in the tours’ cost.
If you’re looking to go dog sledding close to Tromsø, on the island of Kvaløya (where we used to live), there are three excellent companies we can vouch for:
For a slightly different adventure, you can also check out dog sledding at:
Both options offer departures from Tromsø, but remember they’re a bit longer drive.
Book early!
Seriously, this is even more important than booking Northern Lights tours. There aren’t as many dog sledding providers, and the dogs need their rest.
During the winter, especially around Christmas, February, and March, dog sledding companies tend to get fully booked. So, be smart—secure your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment!
Are you looking for things to do in Tromsø, Lofoten or Alta?
Visiting a reindeer farm in Tromsø is one of our favorite activities, hands down!
With whales and the Northern Lights, it’s always a bit of a gamble whether you’ll actually get to see them or not, but with reindeer, you know exactly what you’re in for. Rain or shine, the reindeer are always at the farm, ready to meet you.
What we love most about visiting the reindeer farm is that it’s not just a touristy thing to do—it’s actually quite meaningful.
Reindeer are heavily impacted by climate change.
In recent years, warmer temperatures in the Arctic have led to rain falling in winter, followed by sudden freezing. This creates a thick layer of ice covering the ground and traps the lichen, the reindeer’s main winter food source. When the ice is too thick to dig through, reindeer struggle to get to their food; in some cases, they even starve.
To help prevent this, some herders, like those at the Tromsø Arctic Reindeer Farm, gather their animals behind fences during winter and provide them with extra feed.
So when you visit a reindeer farm in Tromsø, you’re actually supporting the herders in feeding and caring for the reindeer during the toughest months.
Sure, you might spot reindeer in the wild during winter, too.
When we lived on Kvaløya Island, we’d have reindeer outside our house, scratching themselves against the walls.
But it wasn’t just the reindeer that showed up—tourists would often stop their cars in our driveway, walk onto our property, and try to get as close as possible to the reindeer, sometimes even scaring them away.
If you hope to get up close to reindeer, feed them, or pet them, please visit a reindeer farm.
This way, you’re respecting the animals, supporting the local herders, and helping the reindeer get through the winter.
But if you’ve got a long lens and aren’t planning to chase down reindeer for a selfie, you might catch a glimpse of them around Kvaløya and Sommarøy.
The Sámi are the indigenous people of northern Scandinavia, living across northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia’s Kola Peninsula.
They’ve been in the region for thousands of years, long before national borders were drawn. Traditionally, the Sámi have been known for reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting, and reindeer herding is still a big part of their culture today.
The Sámi have their own languages, which are totally different from the Norwegian language and part of the Uralic language family. There are several Sámi languages, and some of them are endangered.
For centuries, the Sámi faced discrimination and attempts to assimilate them into mainstream Scandinavian society. Their languages and cultural practices were suppressed, but there’s been a stronger push to recognize Sámi rights and culture in recent years.
Scandinavia’s tourism industry has faced criticism for using Sámi culture as a marketing gimmick. Gift shops have been selling cheap knock-offs of traditional Sámi crafts, and you’d sometimes find non-Sámi staff dressed up in Sámi clothing for the sake of tourist “authenticity.” But thankfully, things are shifting.
In recent years, there’s been a positive movement towards sustainable and culturally sensitive tourism. Norwegians, Swedes, Finns, and Sámi people have started working together to create small-scale, authentic experiences that actually respect Sámi culture.
One great example is Tromsø Arctic Reindeer, a family-run business founded by Sámi reindeer herder Johan Isak Turi Oskal in 2016. It offers a genuinely authentic Sámi experience that reflects the real traditions and lifestyle of the Sámi people.
So, in short—yes, this is the real deal.
Tromsø Arctic Reindeer offers tours from the beginning of November until about mid-April. The reindeer sledding activity depends on snow conditions.
If you visit Tromsø as early as October, you can see the reindeer at Tromsø Lapland.
The price for a reindeer farm visit in Tromsø starts at around NOK 1500 per person, which includes daytime reindeer feeding and a Sámi culture experience.
If you want to try reindeer sledding, expect to pay around NOK 1990 per person for the full experience.
There are only two companies that offer reindeer farm visits around Tromsø: Tromsø Arctic Reindeer and Tromsø Lapland.
We’ve visited Tromsø Arctic Reindeer several times, and we absolutely love it. They offer an authentic Sámi experience that’s been a favorite for us.
However, Tromsø Lapland is a great option, too, especially since it opens earlier in the season, starting in October, and has solid reviews as well. Either way, both offer great ways to experience reindeer and Sámi culture.
For over a decade, whale watching has become one of the most incredible things to do in Tromsø in winter.
From late October to early February, the fjords around Tromsø are a prime location to spot large pods of orcas and humpback whales as they follow the herring migration.
In many countries, such as New Zealand, Canada, and Iceland, direct interaction with orcas in the wild—like swimming or snorkeling—is either illegal or strongly discouraged due to concerns about human safety and animal welfare.
However, Norway doesn’t have specific laws prohibiting swimming with whales, making it one of the most accessible destinations for tourists wanting to snorkel or swim with orcas.
This lack of regulation has drawn many people to Norway for this unique experience.
But the big question is—should snorkeling with orcas be allowed? Is it safe for both the animals and the people involved?
The answers aren’t simple. While it might seem like an incredible opportunity, disturbing whales in their natural habitat and risking harm to both animals and humans raise ethical concerns.
We explore this topic in-depth, discussing the safety, ethics, and potential impact on the whales in our article about ethical whale watching from Tromsø.
Most whale safari tours in Tromsø and Skjervøy schedule their season from late October to the end of January since that’s usually when the herring are around.
Even though the timing can vary by a few days, this is generally your best chance to see whales in Tromsø.
The price of a whale-watching safari depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re going for a big boat from Tromsø, like the hybrid electric catamaran from Brim Explorer, you’re looking at around 1790 NOK per person. It’s a comfortable, eco-friendly option that gives you a stable ride and a relaxing way to enjoy the fjords.
If you’re up for a more adventurous, close-up experience, the RIB boats out of Skjervøy are more intense but come with a higher price tag—around 2900 NOK per person. These smaller, faster boats get you closer to the action, but it’s definitely a more rugged experience.
Both options are great for whale watching, but they offer very different vibes depending on what you’re looking for!
Plenty of companies in Tromsø and around Skjervøy offer whale-watching safaris, but not all of them are, how to put it nicely, professional. Some offer safe and eco-friendly tours, while others… well, let’s say they shouldn’t be out on the water.
Here’s a list of companies we recommend for ethical whale watching in and around Tromsø.
That being said, this doesn’t mean that the companies not on this list are bad—we can’t know every single operator out there—but with these, you definitely won’t go wrong:
👉 Brim Explorer
Modern hybrid electric catamaran for eco-friendly and comfortable whale watching from Tromsø.
👉 Norwegian Travel
Offers whale safaris with a whale guarantee and panoramic views from Tromsø.
👉 Green Gold of Norway
Small adventure company known for responsible and ethical whale watching. They offer RIN boat tours from Skjervøy with a transfer from Tromsø.
👉 Explore 70 Degrees
Based in Skjervøy, they offer small-group RIB boat tours.
👉 Dervola Adventure
Provides comfortable whale watching from a cozy Askeladden P92 SUV (motorboat with a closed cabin)
With snow-capped mountains and diverse marine life, the fjords around Tromsø are absolutely stunning in the winter. However, the fjords around Tromsø are different from fjords in western Norway. Here, they are wider, more open, and the surrounding mountains are not as steep.
One of the best ways to take it all in is by hopping on a fjord cruise. The skipper will fill you in on the local marine life, and if you’re lucky, you might spot sea eagles, seabirds, seals, and maybe even a whale! Plus, you can try your hand at fishing while you’re at it.
Not into boat trips? No worries. You can easily explore the fjords by renting a car.
Take a scenic drive over to Kvaløya island and check out Ersfjordbotn village, or head to Sommarøy, where you’ll find turquoise waters and sandy beaches.
If driving in winter conditions isn’t your thing, you can join a minibus tour that will take you to all these must-see spots without the stress of navigating icy roads.
Fjord cruises and sightseeing trips in Tromsø are awesome because they’re a year-round activity!
This means you can hop on a cruise even during September and October when the Northern Lights season has already kicked off, but it’s still a bit too early for the classic winter activities like whale watching, dog sledding, or snowmobiling.
What makes this time of year special is the mix of fall colors and the first snow covering the mountain tops—perfect for photography. The fjords look absolutely stunning with the autumn landscape, and that early snow dusting on the peaks gives it a super photogenic contrast.
Our top pick for a pure fjord cruise is Brim Explorer and their hybrid electric catamaran. We love the boat and the eco-friendly concept of their tours.
We’ve joined them a few times in Tromsø for whale watching and fjord sightseeing, and even in Lofoten for the Trollfjord cruise. The quiet, environmentally friendly experience on their hybrid catamaran really adds something special to the trip.
We also love the tours with Hermes II.
If you’re looking for a fjord cruise with some fishing on the side, we highly recommend Hermes II or Polar Adventures.
Both companies offer a great combination of fjord sightseeing and fishing, letting you experience the best of both worlds.
⛵ Fjord Sightseeing
Regarding sightseeing, many companies that offer Northern Lights tours also provide daytime sightseeing options. If you want a great experience, we recommend Wandering Owl or Northern Soul Adventures.
You can also look into day trips to Senja or Lyngen Alps.
Tromsø experiences long, cold winters with a lot of snow and snowshoe hiking is a great way to experience the beauty of the Arctic landscape in the winter.
It’s a relatively easy activity suitable for people of all fitness levels and an excellent way to get some exercise outdoors.
Snowshoeing can also be fun for families with kids!
While the amount of snow can vary from year to year, it is generally expected to have snow in the mountains around Tromsø from November to May.
The prices for guided snowshoe hikes in Tromsø depend on the length of the tour and the company running it, but you’re generally looking at 1500 to 2000 NOK per person.
Several companies in Tromsø offer guided snowshoeing trips to the nearby mountains. We can recommend the snowshoe hikes with Wandering Owl!
The following two tours are also great options if you’re looking for something active.
Guided Husky Snowshoe Hike and Husky Camp Visit lets you hike with huskies, which is always a fun and unique way to explore the area.
Daytime Fjellheisen Snowshoe Hike takes you snowshoeing from the top of the Tromsø cable car. You’ll get to enjoy some incredible views without having to climb a mountain, which is perfect if you want to soak in the scenery without too much effort.
👉 You can also rent snowshoes at Tromsø Outdoor and try snowshoeing alone. When you pick up the snowshoes there, they can recommend beginner-friendly routes based on the weather and snow conditions.
We can recommend taking the cable car (Fjellheisen) up to Storsteinen and taking a short snowshoe trip up to Fløya. You can also rent a car and head to Sommarøy, where you can hike Ørnfløya.
Note that when the wind is too strong, the cable car will be out of service.
The city sits on an island surrounded by the icy waters of the Norwegian Sea, and the strong currents around Tromsø attract all kinds of fish like Arctic cod, halibut, and pollock.
The fishing industry here was once all about processing and exporting dried cod. Today, fishing is still a crucial part of Tromsø’s culture and economy, and the city is known for its top-quality seafood.
You’ve got a couple of options for fishing in Tromsø. If you’re really into fishing, you can join a deep-sea fishing tour, where the main focus is catching fish and spending a solid amount of time on the water.
Or, if you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, you can go for a fjord cruise, where fishing is part of the trip but not necessarily the main highlight.
On the fjord cruises, you get the best of both worlds—enjoying the stunning fjord scenery and trying your hand at catching something without it being all about fishing.
You can join the deep sea fishing tour from Tromsø from October 21 until March 19.
The fjord cruises that offer fishing usually operate year-round so that you can enjoy both the beautiful scenery and a bit of fishing no matter the season.
I recently heard from a former colleague in Tromsø that there’s a new king crab fishing activity available in the area! This tour runs from mid-October to mid-February, giving you the chance to catch and learn about these impressive crabs during the colder months without having to travel to Kirkenes.
The prices for guided fishing tours in Tromsø can vary depending on the length of the tour and the provider, but a standard fishing trip generally costs around NOK 1500 per person.
However, if you’re interested in the new king crab fishing experience, it’s a bit more expensive, with prices around NOK 2500 per person.
🎣 For deep-sea fishing, we highly recommend Sørøya Havfiskecruise. They offer some of the best experiences in the Tromsø area.
🎣 If you’re looking for something a bit more laid-back, where you can combine fishing with sightseeing, then check out Hermes II or Polar Adventures. Both provide a more relaxed vibe while allowing you to cast a line in the fjords.
🎣 As for king crab fishing, we haven’t had the chance to try it ourselves yet since it’s a newer activity and we now live in Lofoten.
I’ve always wanted to go king crab fishing, but it was only offered up in Finnmark (Kirkenes) before, and we never made the trip. So, having it now available in Tromsø is pretty exciting—even though we don’t have any personal experience with it yet.
Tromsø is a prime destination for skiing, especially if you’re into randonee skiing (also known as ski touring), where you hike up the mountain and ski down—no lifts involved.
The mountains around Tromsø are perfect for this, and you’ll often see locals heading out with their skins and skis to enjoy the untouched snow and incredible views.
Spots like Kvaløya, Lyngen, and Senja—just a couple hours by car—are world-famous for their ski-touring terrain.
However, the mountains here can be unpredictable, and safety is always the top priority. Always check the weather and local avalanche warnings before you head out, and avoid skiing in dangerous conditions.
Book a guided tour with a local expert if you want to play it safe and make the most of your trip. We can highly recommend the Tromsø Ski Guides!
There is a small alpine ski “resort” in the city, Tromsø Alpinpark, but don’t expect anything like the massive resorts in the Alps.
It’s a cozy spot with two ski lifts, more for locals or a quick afternoon run than a full-on ski vacation.
Tromsø has some fantastic trails for cross-country skiing, many of which are lit up on dark Arctic days.
One of our favorites is on Kvaløya, where you’ll get amazing views of Tromsø city and the iconic Tromsdalstinden mountain while gliding along the tracks. The cross-country scene here is big, and it’s a great way to explore the natural beauty around Tromsø in winter.
If you’ve never tried cross-country skiing before, don’t worry! You can join a guided tour where you’ll get to learn the basics of this beloved Norwegian national sport.
The season for alpine skiing and ski touring in Tromsø typically runs from late November to early April (alpine skiing) or to early June (ski touring).
If you’re not bringing your own ski gear to Tromsø, don’t worry—Tromsø Outdoor has you covered for rentals.
They’ve got everything you need, from split boards and touring skis to avalanche equipment. They also rent out cross-country skis, snowshoes, and even winter clothing, so you can hit the trails fully prepared without having to pack a ton of gear.
The Ice Bar in Tromsø is a popular tourist attraction and a fun place to have a drink. It is decorated with ice sculptures and has a range of ice furniture, including ice chairs, ice tables, and an ice bar. The bar serves various drinks, including cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages.
However, if you want to see an even “cooler” place with a cinema or restaurant made of ice or spend a night in an ice hotel, add Tromsø Ice Domes to your bucket list.
The Tromsø Ice Domes are built from scratch each winter using snow and ice blocks, and they offer a variety of cool activities for visitors. You can try things like ice sculpting, ice fishing, and snowshoeing while you’re there.
If you’re up for a bigger adventure, they also offer classic winter activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Plus, if you’re looking for something truly unique, you can even stay overnight in one of their ice rooms!
But don’t worry if an overnight stay isn’t in your budget. You can still check out the Ice Domes on a day trip from Tromsø and experience the magic without breaking the bank.
The Tromsø Ice Domes are a popular attraction in Tromsø, Norway. Depending on the weather, they are open seasonally from December to April.
⬇️⬇️⬇️ But there might be a catch this season (2024/2025).
Unfortunately, the Ice Hotel in Tamokdalen is off the table for this season and might not return in the future.
The hotel, which was a popular part of Camp Tamok, had its permit revoked due to conflicts with local reindeer herding communities and environmental concerns.
The case has been ongoing for years, and while the Ice Hotel used to draw thousands of visitors, it’s now uncertain whether it will ever be back. So, if you had your heart set on an Ice Hotel experience in Tromsø, it’s best to look into an ice hotel in Alta, Kiruna, or Kirkenes.
Other Activities in Tamok Valley Are Still Running!
Even though the Ice Hotel is off the table this season, there are still plenty of things to do in Tamok Valley. You can go dog sledding (with both easier and more advanced options), visit a reindeer herd—though a bit smaller than those at Tromsø Lapland or Tromsø Arctic Reindeer—or take a snowmobile tour through the Arctic wilderness. You can also join a guided tour of the Tromsø Ice Domes to check out the impressive ice sculptures and snow carvings.
Tromsø is surrounded by amazing snow-covered landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a snowmobile tour.
That said, Norway has pretty strict laws when it comes to snowmobile use.
Snowmobiles can only be used in specific areas or if you’ve got a permit to transport materials to remote cabins, at ski resorts, or in reindeer husbandry.
Recreational snowmobiling is heavily regulated or even prohibited, but commercial snowmobile tours (often called snow scooter safaris) are allowed.
On these tours, each snowmobile usually has two people—one driving and one riding as a passenger. Driving a snowmobile isn’t too hard, but it’s kind of like riding an ATV or a motorbike—it takes a bit of coordination and balance.
To drive a snowmobile, you’ll usually need a valid car driver’s license (you do not need it for this tour).
The minimum age for passengers varies depending on the provider, but it’s usually between 7 and 12 years old.
Most snowmobile tours leave from Tromsø, but they’ll take you further inland to places like the Lyngen Alps, Finland, or the beautiful Tamok valley.
Snowmobile tours can be a fun family activity for older kids and teenagers. However, it is essential to note that snowmobiling can be a potentially dangerous activity.
At Camp Troll and Camp Tamok, kids over seven can join the trip as passengers. However, for this Snowmobile tour, which takes you to the border between Norway, Finland, and Sweden, the kids must be at least 12 years old.
The snowmobile season in northern Norway lasts from the end of November/beginning of December to the beginning of April, depending on the snow conditions.
The prices for snowmobile tours in Tromsø depend on the length of the tour and the provider. You can generally expect to pay around NOK 2500 to NOK 3300 per person.
Honestly, there aren’t many companies offering snowmobile tours in Tromsø, probably because of the strict regulations around snowmobile use.
I don’t have personal experience with any of them (I spent a lot of time driving snowmobiles when I studied in Svalbard, so paying for a guided tour isn’t really my thing).
That said, here are a few companies you can check out:
👉 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 for these tours.
If you’re after something a bit different, there’s even an option to try an electric snowmobile that looks a bit like a kick bike. It’s a unique twist on the usual snowmobile adventure!
So, if you’re keen on a snowmobile tour, these are good places to start!
Kayaking is such an awesome activity, and honestly, I’m surprised there aren’t more providers offering kayaking tours in Tromsø.
I mean, paddling through the calm waters, surrounded by mountains, and maybe even catching a glimpse of some wildlife? Sounds perfect to me.
It’s surprising that Tromsø isn’t as packed with kayaking options as places like Lofoten or Svalbard, especially given how popular kayaking is there. There are a few operators, but I definitely think there’s room for more!
If you’re into kayaking, you should check out Sommarøy. It’s a small village on Kvaløya island, and its crystal-clear waters, small islands, and beautiful sandy beaches make it perfect for kayaking.
The whole area is absolutely stunning, and it’s not just great for kayaking—you can also make it a day trip or even head there in the evening to catch the Northern Lights. Sommarøy is definitely worth a visit, whether you’re on the water or exploring the land!
Sommarøy Adventure Tromsø offers winter kayaking trips from January to April, giving you the chance to experience the Arctic beauty from the water, even in winter.
They provide transfers to Sommarøy from Tromsø, making it super convenient if you’re based in the city. These trips aren’t available daily, so if you’re keen, it’s worth checking their schedule and booking in advance.
The price for kayaking with Sommarøy Adventure Tromsø is 1690 NOK per person. We went on a tour with them along with Ivar, and we can highly recommend it—it was a great time and tons of fun!
Arctic ocean floating—you might be thinking, “What the hell is that?” Well, it’s actually a super cool new activity that hit the Tromsø scene in 2023.
Picture this: you’re floating in the Arctic Ocean in a survival dry suit, just chilling beneath the Northern Lights. It’s an incredibly peaceful, almost meditative experience and a perfect way to connect with nature in a totally unique way.
Add Arctic Floating to your bucket list if you’re looking for something different among the classical Tromso winter activities!
The Arctic Floating Tours run from October until the end of April, giving you the chance to experience floating in the Arctic waters throughout the colder months, including the peak of the Northern Lights season.
The price for Arctic Floating in Tromsø depends on the type of experience:
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.
The Tromsø cable car (Fjellheisen) is an absolute must if you want killer views of the city and the surrounding landscape. It’s especially popular in the winter, as it’s one of the best spots to watch the Northern Lights dance over Tromsø.
The cable car takes you up to Storsteinen, which sits at 420 meters (1,378 feet) above sea level. From the top, you get stunning panoramic views of the city, the fjords, and those snow-covered mountains surrounding Tromsø.
Once you’re up there, you can chill at the restaurant and enjoy the views from the viewing platform. If you stop by the restaurant, you must try the Northern Lights chocolate cake (Nordlyskake) —seriously, I’m addicted to it!
The opening hours of the Fjellheisen gondola vary depending on the season, so it’s always a good idea to double-check the current schedule before you go.
Head over to fjellheisen.no for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any potential closures due to weather.
This way, you’ll avoid surprises, especially during the winter when the gondola might close due to strong winds.
The price for a return ticket on the Fjellheisen gondola is 495 NOK per adult and 240 NOK per child (ages 6 to 17).
Tickets can be easily booked online at fjellheisen.no or bought at the gondola’s lower station.
Just a heads-up—there are times when the gondola might be closed due to strong winds, especially during winter. It’s not unusual for it to be shut down for a couple of days when the weather is rough.
If you’re not into cable cars, find the price steep, or just love hiking, you can take the Sherpa Trail up the mountain instead.
It’s a 2 km trail (one way) that starts and ends at the Fjellheisen cable car station, taking you through the forest and along the mountain plateau with awesome views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
The hike is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and rocky terrain.
It can get tricky in winter or early spring (definitely bring ice cleats and hiking poles), but there aren’t any dangerous sections.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, so you won’t get lost. It’s a great alternative for anyone who prefers an active adventure over a cable car ride!
I’ve written a super detailed article covering everything you need to know when planning a winter trip to Tromso —from what kind of weather to expect, how to get to Tromsø, getting from the airport to the city center, and even how to navigate the local bus system. Make sure to check it out for all the info you need.
And if you’re wondering where to stay, we’ve also put together another article on the best places to stay in Tromsø.
And yes, we actually stayed in 8 different hotels ourselves to give you personal recommendations, so you’ll get the real scoop.
Here are a few additional tips to make your planning even easier:
If you’ve read through the article carefully, you already know that different winter activities in Tromso have their own seasons.
For example, if you arrive in October, don’t expect to join a whale safari or a snowmobile tour—they won’t be available yet.
So, planning your trip based on the specific activities you want to experience while you’re here is essential! Make sure to match your travel dates to the season for the things on your bucket list.
If you’re planning a winter trip to Tromsø, booking well in advance is crucial, especially during the busy months from November to March when everyone is flocking to see the Northern Lights.
❗I can’t emphasize this enough! November to March is really busy, but if you’re planning to travel to Tromsø for Christmas and New Year’s, you really need to book early! And that includes the restaurants❗
Northern Lights tours: These are the main reason people visit Tromsø, so try to book at least 3 to 6 months ahead (depending on the time you want to go), especially with the more popular operators.
Accommodation: Hotels and Airbnbs fill up fast, so aim to book your stay about six months in advance during peak season to make sure you have a spot.
Activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, or reindeer experiences are super popular and tend to sell out quickly, so it’s best to reserve them 3 to 6 months in advance. Dog sledding especially gets sold out really quickly!
Restaurants: Some of Tromsø’s popular spots can get busy, especially around the holidays, so it’s a good idea to reserve tables for dinner once you know your travel dates.
Transportation: Book your flights and car rentals as early as possible—especially cars, since they tend to be limited during winter.
The bottom line is that if you want to get the best spots, book as early as possible—the sooner, the better!
Here’s a serious heads-up about winter driving conditions in northern Norway: If you’ve got no experience driving on snow or ice, do not rent a car. Period!
The road conditions can be brutal in the winter, with snow, ice, and slippery surfaces making things dangerous even for seasoned drivers. Add in narrow, winding roads, and it’s not the place to try and “figure it out” on the fly.
Save yourself the stress (and risk) and leave the driving to the pros.
If you’re staying in Tromsø’s city center and mostly joining guided tours, there’s really no need for a car anyway.
Tromsø is walkable, and public transportation or taxis will quickly get you around. Plus, parking in the city is expensive and hard to find, so you’re better off skipping the rental altogether if you’re sticking to town and organized tours.
If your main goal is to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø, give yourself enough time.
The longer you stay, the better your chances, but I get it—you probably don’t have endless vacation days or an unlimited budget. Ideally, I’d recommend spending a week in Tromsø, but if that’s not possible, aim for at least four days.
Why?
Because you don’t want to book a quick two-night trip and then land right in the middle of a 3-day winter storm.
It’s not uncommon for snowstorms to keep you from even stepping outside, let alone going on a Northern Lights chase. Bad weather can lead to canceled tours due to dangerous road conditions, avalanche risks, or zero visibility for days.
So, the more days you plan, the better your odds of having at least one or two clear nights to catch the auroras.
If your main goal is to see the Northern Lights, staying in northern Norway for a few days is a good idea—ideally, I’d recommend a week.
But that doesn’t mean you must stay in Tromsø the whole time. You can easily extend your trip and explore other areas that offer totally different landscapes.
How about adding a few days in Lofoten, with its rugged mountains and dramatic coastline? Or head to Senja, Norway’s hidden gem, for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
You could also check out the stunning Lyngen Alps, known for their epic mountain scenery, or even venture up to Svalbard for something truly wild and unique.
If you have questions about what to do in winter in Tromso or want to share your own experience with Tromsø winter activities, please feel free to do so in the comments below 💙
Cheers,
Radka and Ivar
It’s mostly a nickname from back in the day. Tromsø was a lively, cosmopolitan city for its size, and people found it charming and sophisticated in its own way—kind of like Paris. It stuck, and now it’s just a fun little piece of history.
Absolutely! If you love winter activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and chasing the northern lights, it’s perfect. Winter in Tromsø is the prime travel season, with the peak during Christmas, New Year’s, and again in February and March.
A week would be great if you want to explore the nearby regions, too. Four days in the city give you enough time to explore, go on a northern lights tour, and try some winter activities without feeling rushed.
Stay in the city center. You’ll be close to everything—restaurants, tours, and shops. Plus, the views of the surrounding mountains and fjords are great. There are lots of hotels to choose from.
Note: We do not support or recommend Airbnb, as it’s an unregulated business that’s pushing local people (including us) out of the housing market.
You don’t need to rent a car if you’re staying in the city and joining organized tours. Public buses during the day are great, and there are taxis available at night. Most tours also include pickups.
However, if you’re not experienced with driving on ice and snow, I strongly recommend not renting a car. The roads can be treacherous in winter, and it’s not just your safety at risk—it’s everyone else’s too. But if you’re confident driving in these conditions and want to explore on your own, renting a car could be an option. Just be prepared for the icy roads!
It’s really a supply and demand situation. Tromsø has become incredibly popular, almost a symbol of northern lights tourism in Norway. Hotels and tours get fully booked in the winter, so naturally, prices go up because people are willing to pay for it.
Yes, Norway is expensive in general, but Tromsø in winter (and Lofoten in summer) takes it to the next level.
It gets really dark. From late November to mid-January, Tromsø has polar night, meaning the sun doesn’t rise at all. But it’s not pitch black all the time; you get a few hours of soft twilight during midday.
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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