Tromsø at a glance
Lively Tromsø is an island of colourful houses, nestled between snowy mountains and picturesque fjords above the Arctic Circle. From September to March it is a hub for those in search of the Northern Lights, while from May to July the midnight sun shines on golfers playing a round on the world’s most northerly course. A great vantage point for both phenomena can be had from Fjellheisen, the city’s cable car.
Winter activities include whale watching expeditions to spot the humpback, sperm and killer whales which tend to inhabit nearby waters from November to February.
Whatever the time of year, the city provides art, culture, good food and thriving nightlife. It attracts those with an interest in all thing polar to the Polar Museum and Polaria, an ‘arctic experience’ centre including aquarium, housed in a contemporary building designed to represent ice floes. Another stunning building is the modern Arctic Cathedral, which can be found over the bridge on the mainland.
Perfect if you’re looking for:
- Outdoor activities
- Art and culture
- Picturesque setting
Getting around
Tromsø is very compact and easy to navigate on foot, however there are plenty of buses within the city from early morning to late at night, seven days a week. Tickets can be purchased on board the buses, payment by cash only. The Flybussen transports passengers from the airport to the centre in 15 minutes.
Shopping in Tromsø
Storgata is the main shopping street in Tromsø, there is a variety of shops selling both local and international products. During December the city comes alive with a warming festive sprit filled with markets and stalls perfect for picking up stocking fillers.
Dining in Tromsø
Tromsø has excellent seafood, often received straight off the boat that day. It also has more unusual local delicacies such as reindeer, whale and, until recently, seal. Perhaps unexpectedly, local strawberries are particularly juicy, having ripened in the midnight sun. The city has numerous fine dining restaurants which showcase local ingredients and traditional recipes. There are also more relaxed cafes, which serve great food on a lower budget.
Must-try local dishes:
- Mack Ol og Masegg – local beer and hardboiled seagull eggs, a popular snack
- Blanding – a mix of pilsner and dark beer in the same glass, as served in Olhallen beer hall
- Lutefisk – a traditional dish of fish preserved in lye, often eaten during the festive period
Get your tailor-made city break itinerary
Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break to Tromsø designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:
- All travel and transfers on days of your choice
- Accommodation from our handpicked range of Tromsø hotels, to suit your budget and requirements
Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.
- Important information
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Population 72,066 Languages Norwegian Currency Norwegian Krone Visa Information No visa required for UK citizens - Average temperatures
(monthly highs °C)
- Distance from airports
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Tromsø Airport 6 km