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Tromso City Breaks: Best of Tromso

A funky university town for aurora-chasing, music blasting, and all-night sunshine
Tucked above the Arctic Circle, Tromso puts on a wintertime display of northern lights swirling across the sky. Come summer, darkness disappears as the city glows with the midnight sun. But whatever the season, you'll be spellbound by the city's cute fishing villages, gushing waterfalls, and narrow fjords. Music is a major part of the Tromso culture, so join the locals at a concert in the Arctic Cathedral or dance to techno and electronica at the annual Insomnia Festival.

Travel Advice

Essential Tromso

Tromso Is Great For

Unbeatable northern lights

Getting a lesson in Nordic history

Spending time in the arctic wild

Tromso Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Tromso

klimaflyktning
Conditions vary a lot. To cover all aspects of the unpredictable weather you should think of dressing in layers with a windproof and waterproof outer layer and waterproof hiking boots with room for warm socks.
GuideGunnar
Please don't plan so many driving routes before you arrive, because if the Northern Lights it's your main reason for your visit, then you should wait to find out where the best conditions are
visitnorway
There are several attractions within easy walking distance from the city centre, while others are only a short bus ride away. Please visit this page to learn about attractions offering history, daring architecture, wildlife, science, culture and impressive vistas: http://www.visitnorway.com/en/where-to-go/north/tromso/what-to-do/attractions.html
Supratik
We all know food and alcohol is expensive in Norway. We packed our bags with readymade meals like Bachelor's pasta, 2-minute noodles, different soups, some Indian readymade meals from Ashoka and Shana and also from the range "Look what I have found", loads of crisps etc. And of course a couple of bottles of wine. We had to do some grocery shopping once from the Aida Handel shop during our stay and didn't find the prices too expensive there.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

fisherman5091
This would have to be one of the most beautiful cities I have visited. From old buildings to vast mountainous countryside. I had the pleasure to be here when it was snowing: cold, yes, but invigorating at the same time. If in norway take time out to visit this city you will enjoy your time here.
cool nurse
Really friendly locals. Loads to do, eat, see. Everything reasonably priced. Beautiful area. Amazing scenery.
Jeanne B
Lots to do: reindeer sledding, snowmobiling, dogsledding, northern light chasing, and lots of snowballs.
bee19aw
We found the people friendly, the area a delight to visit, great restaurants, museums, bars, excursions
Supratik
Undoubtedly one of the best trips we have ever taken. Nowadays whenever we discuss the hypothetical question " Out of all the places visited which one would you like to visit again?" all four of us unanimously shout "Tromso"

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

All international and domestic flights land at Tromsø Airport, Langnes, a 10-minute drive from the city center.

Boat:

The Hurtigruten passenger and cruise ship stop in Tromsø every day. https://www.hurtigruten.com/practical-information/sailing-plan/

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Tromsø from overseas, check the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration for information. https://www.udi.no/en/word-definitions/persons-who-do-not-need-a-visa-to-visit-norway-/

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Tromsø is either summer or late winter/early spring. The long days of the far-northern summer provide ideal conditions for hiking while February and March promise Northern Lights, dog-sledding and other snow-based activities. In February, daily highs are between 29°F to 31°F (-1.6 C to -0.5 C)); in July highs are between 57°F to 59°F (14 C to 16 C).

Walking

The city’s compact center is ideal for walking. Many attractions are within walking distance.

Bus

The public bus service is comprehensive and runs day as well as Friday and Saturday night. It is usually cheaper to pre-purchase single or multi-day tickets. Tickets may be purchased on board the buses, but please note cash payments only in NOK.

For more information about the network and fares: https://www.tromskortet.no/travel-info/tourist-information-city-buses-in-tromso-article4665-1551.html

Taxis

Taxis are metered, safe and plentiful. Go to a taxi stand to find one, such as those at Stortorget, Aurora Fokus Cinema, Bankgata, and Kirkegata. Or download the Tromsø Taxi app and order one with your smartphone: https://tromso-taxi.no/en/home/

Ridesharing

There are no ridesharing services; Uber is banned in Norway.

On the ground
What is the timezone?
Central European Standard Time
What are the voltage/plug types?
In Norway the power plugs and sockets are of type F, which has two round prongs. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
What is the currency?
The Norwegian Kroner
Are ATMs readily accessible?
Yes.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes.
How much do I tip?
In Norway, tipping is not compulsory. It is, however, usual for Norwegians to leave a 10-20% tip if they are happy with the service.

Are there local customs I should know?

Drinking
The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.
Public transport
Allow others to disembark before boarding, don’t take up more than one seat, and stand to offer seating to the elderly, pregnant women, or someone with a disability.
Greetings
Greetings in Norway are typically casual, with a firm handshake, eye contact and a smile, rarely a kiss.
Be on time
Whether it's a business or social situation, Norwegians are punctual.
Remove shoes inside
Norwegians typically remove footwear when entering a home.
Show humility
Norway has an egalitarian culture and it is considered tasteless to brag about success or achievements.
Don’t criticize
Complaining is frowned upon in Norway and thought rude.