Norway | Visit Tromsø in winter!

Tromsø in Norway is the gateway to the North Pole. To visit an enchanting winter wonderland, you should visit Tromsø in the winter months. It is the largest city in northern Norway and you can fully enjoy the outdoor life here in winter. The winters here are characterized by magical snowy landscapes and of course the northern Lights. Take a husky ride through the snow-covered forests, view the Northern Lights from a mountain, spot whales on the water or stroll through the illuminated streets. Read about everything Tromsø has to offer here!

Dark and (far) light at the same time

In Tromsø you can celebrate a fairytale holiday in the dark December months that you will never forget. In Tromsø, the sun never rises during the winter months. When you wake up it is dusk and around 14.00 pm it starts to get pitch dark. The days may be short and dark, but the city feels warm and cosy. The streets are lit up like a true Christmas fairytale.

You'll find ornate lighting all over the city. Houses along the water illuminate the entire city when it gets dark. Believe me, in Tromsø the dark feels atmospheric. In The Netherlands can't stay light long enough for me, but here in the far north I loved it. All the lights of boats, shops, houses... the whole city is alive!

The Tromso Bridge

Nice to walk over is the well-known bridge of Tromsø. The Tromsø bridge (location here) offers a phenomenal view of the beauty of the city. From here you can admire the surrounding majestic mountains and fjords. A walk across the Tromsø Bridge is a unique experience in itself! You feel the powerful wind of the Arctic Ocean blowing through your hair and enjoy a panoramic view. It is one of the Norwegian city's most iconic landmarks.

The Arctic Cathedral

If you walk from the center of the city over the Tromsø bridge, you end up at the Arctic Cathedral (Location here). This is also one of the must sees in Tromso. It is a striking triangular church with stained glass windows. This unique architecture was designed by Jan Inge Hovig and attracts thousands of visitors every year. It resembles an iceberg and is located in the middle of the enchanting Tromsø landscapes. It has since become an iconic symbol of northern Norway. We haven't been inside, but you can. This costs about 7 euros.

Tromso harbour

Oh, how we enjoyed the harbour! The lights of the boats illuminate the city and the snow lays a white blanket over the boats, making it seem as if the world is frozen. In the background you look at a picturesque backdrop of snowy mountains and fjords. The icy air feels healthy to breathe and you'll be greeted by friendly captains and fishermen. We have taken a winter walk along the harbor almost every evening. Yet every time we stopped at the water to enjoy the unique view. You can also book various winter activities at the harbor!

Whale watching tours

Speaking of the harbor… this is where the boats leave for the whales! The first time I was in Tromsø it was September, and this was just too early to see whales. So: I had to go back. The following year in December we left for the far north again to be able to participate in the whale tour this time. Tromsø is known for offering many opportunities to spot orcas and multiple whale species and seabirds in the winter months! The watching tours usually offer a 90% guarantee that you will see the whales, and if you are disappointed you will get your money back or you can go on another day for free.

I can tell you, this was one of the most amazing experiences of my entire life. We have seen about 30 orcas, they swam under the boat and dived above the water. I'm dreaming all over again when I think back on it! The boat trip in itself was a unique experience because of the icy journey between the beautiful fjords. While sailing, the experts on the boat gave an informative presentation about the whales and other animals we might see and knew exactly how to find the right spots at sea. 100% recommended!

Also read: Orca & Whale Watching Telegraph Cove, Vancouver Island

Tip:: The following organizations are very well regarded in Tromsø.

You can of course try to book at the location itself, sometimes you can come along last minute. However, if you want to be sure of a place, it is better to book (well!) in time. They are very popular tours that fill up quickly.

1. Polar Adventures - click here.
2. Brim Explorer - click here.
3. Green Gold of Norway - click here.
3. Arctic adventures - click here.

Go up the mountain with the Fjellheisen!

One of the best activities to do in Tromsø has to be the Fjellheisen Cable Car (Location here). If you are looking for an unforgettable view of Tromsø and the surrounding breathtaking nature, a ride on the Fjellheisen cable car should not be missed during your visit to this Norwegian city.

You will go to the top of the Storsteinen mountain in just a few minutes, where you will be rewarded with a panoramic view that will leave you speechless looking over the city. Once on top of the mountain you can walk for hours if you want. But it is very cold and there is a lot of snow. After a short walk we sat down in the restaurant on the mountain. Yes, that's right… there's even a restaurant on the mountain!

Tip: The fjellheisen cable car is the best place in Tromsø to see the Northern Lights. So go up the mountain while it is still twilight and wait there until it gets dark. With a bit of luck you will see Aurora Borealis shining in the sky!

6. The shopping center of Tromsø

Tromsø's shopping center in winter is a charming mix of coziness and Arctic flair. As you walk through the streets of the mall, enjoy the snow-covered buildings and decorated shop windows. You feel the cosiness that is so characteristic of Tromsø. It's the perfect place to spend your Christmas because of all the charming lights and details scattered throughout the city! There are also countless options for fine dining or plop down to warm up. In fact, Tromsø is known for good food! Finally, there is a really nice shopping center with even an indoor part. It is also bustling with tourist shops, so you can safely fill your basket with mini trolls as keepsakes!

Tip:: These are good restaurants in Tromsø.

Emma's Dommekjokken – click here. (Overlooking the harbour)
Fiskekompaniet – click here. (Award-winning seafood restaurant for seafood lovers)
Bartus Bistro – click here. (Located in the heart of Tromsø)
Casa Inferno – click here. (For lovers of pizza and Italian dishes)
Huken Pub – click here. (For a relaxed and casual dining experience)

7. Magic Ice Bar

Step into a world of enchantment at the Magic Ice Bar in Tromsø, where ice cream and creativity merge into a unique experience. It's a fun activity for art lovers and drink lovers alike. Or if you just want to enjoy a special atmosphere.

In cold Tromsø it doesn't matter anymore whether you're in an ice bar or outside. So you might as well enjoy the ice sculptures while enjoying a cocktail. And of course you get this cocktail in a glass of ice, because: EVERYTHING is made of ice in this bar. Don't expect a large museum as it is a relatively small space. A very nice addition to your winter holiday!

Northern lights, husky ride and reindeer

Prior to my visit to Tromsø I was already spoiled. I had seen the aurora dancing before and I have fed reindeer in Zweeds-Lapland. But in Tromsø you can also book these tours! In fact, Tromsø is the perfect holiday destination for the full Norway experience. So take a good look at the list of activities below that you can still book to spot the northern lights, feed reindeer or do a husky tour.

1. Husky ride – Let huskies take you on a sleigh ride through the beautiful snowy landscapes. Your guide leads you through mountains, forests and frozen lakes. The top three rated providers for husky tours in Tromsø are Arctic adventures, Norwegian Travel en Tromso Villmarkssenter.
2. Northern lights spotting – Aurora certainly doesn't show up every day and you don't want to miss the chance to see her dance. Play it safe and book a tour led by a guide. On the way to the aurora!
3. Spot reindeer – As I said, I did this myself, but in Swedish Lapland. It is very special to get to know these beautiful pearls of the Norwegian wilderness. You have the chance to feed them, admire them and at the same time get to know the Sami culture. In Tromsø you can spot reindeer with a day tour incl. northern lights spotting or on a ranch incl. culture tour with the Sami's.

Conclusion

If you are looking for the perfect winter/Christmas holiday, I would absolutely recommend Tromsø. Tromsø in winter is a magical experience! The city is vibrant with a nice center and a beautiful harbour, where you can enjoy delicious food and the people are friendly. There is so much to do, from fully organized tours to a simple refreshing stroll through the graceful streets of Tromsø. Bring lots of (layers of) clothing, because it is icy cold. But the city keeps you warm with the joy that flows through your veins the moment you step inside. Have fun!