Best of Tromsø

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Tromsø

Popular Tromsø is also known as the Paris of the North, which should give you an idea of this city’s vibrance in addition to its natural attractions. While you can walk through the city center in a few minutes, it still has plenty going on, including the annual Bukta open-air music festival and the Mack Brewery, one of the northernmost breweries in the world. Visit the seals and exhibitions of the Polaria Arctic Experience, then get out and create your own Arctic exploration with whale safaris and searches for the Northern Lights.

Past kimkim travelers have been able to get close to the gentle aquatic giants on silent whale safaris that don’t disturb them and searched for the Aurora on a dinner cruise. During daylight hours, follow a guide on a local walk customized to your interests, with stops in some of the oldest spots in Tromsø and insight into local life, then escape the city to spend the night in a Sami lavvu (traditional tent).

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Tromsø Winter Adventure - 6 Days

This exciting and less-traveled itinerary takes you into Norway's boreal territory for spectacular snowcapped scenery in the Arctic region. Base yourself in the quietly sophisticated city of Tromsø (Northern Norway's largest), where you can sled with huskies and reindeer during the day and chase the Northern Lights after dark. At the end of the adventure, you'll take a guided overnight excursion in the Arctic wilderness before returning to 'Paris of the North' for one more night on the town.

Northern Norway Lyngenfjord Trek - 8 Days

Lace up your boots and let a private guide show you this lesser-visited region of Northern Norway. With the stunning Lyngen Alps at your doorstep and extended daylight (summer) hours, you'll take part in six days of trekking with the village of Lyngseidet as your base. Highlights include the Steindalsbreen Glacier, the Gorsabrua Gorge, a trail created by WWII prisoners, a free day for biking or boating, and finally a night in Tromsø — dubbed the 'Paris of the North'.

Winter Adventure in Tromsø - 5 Days

There's no need to hibernate for the winter, as Tromsø offers so many exciting outdoor activities. Learn all about the Norwegian Arctic on this five-day trip. Get to know the small town, with its cute traditional architecture, as you'll have plenty of free time to explore on your own. Take a trip out of town to see the colorful, dancing Northern Lights. Take a whale-watching trip in the fiords, where you'll spot a variety of sea birds as well as different types of whale. Top off your trip with a thrilling dog sledding ride through the snowy winter landscape.

Sunset colors in the peaceful woods near Tromsø

Multi-Day Dog Sledding Adventure in the Arctic - 8 Days

Norway's snowy landscapes above the Arctic Circle offer perfect conditions for dog sledding. With this 8-day itinerary, you'll spend half of the trip at a sustainable farm taking part in day-trips (traveling by dog sled, of course) involving trapping and fishing, while learning about local culture with an expert guide. Spend the other half of the trip in the 'Paris of the North'—a lively city called Tromsø—to round out this fun adventure.

Catch glimpses of the Northern Lights when the skies are clear

Tromsø & Senja Winter Adventure - 9 Days

This active winter trip gets to the heart of Northern Norway's spectacular snow-covered scenery. Starting in Tromsø, you'll explore the 'Paris of the North' before transferring to Trapper's Farm where you'll participate in a unique, yet cozy experience involving fishing and dogsledding in the wilderness. Then bus to Norway's 2nd largest island—Senja—for whale watching and snowshoeing along the stunning Arctic coast.

This is prime territory for spotting the Northern Lights

Tromsø & Alta Winter Tour - 8 Days

This exciting and less-traveled winter adventure (November to April) takes you deep into Norway's boreal territory for spectacular snowcapped scenery. The tour begins in the quietly sophisticated city of Tromsø where you can sled with huskies during the day and chase the Northern Lights after dark. Continue to Alta for snowsports in the Arctic and a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised of rock carvings.

Prime territory for spotting the Northern Lights

Tromsø & Alta Winter Adventure - 7 Days

This exciting and less-traveled winter adventure takes you deep into Norway's boreal territory. Your week-long tour between November and April begins in the quietly sophisticated city of Tromsø, where you can sled with huskies during the day and chase the Northern Lights after dark. Continue to Alta by car or bus for snowsports in the Arctic wilderness and a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised of rock carvings. To up the Alta adventure factor, spend your last two nights in a nearby hotel made of snow and ice.

Arctic Norway Summer Road Trip: Tromsø & Senja - 7 Days

Explore northern Norway at your own speed with this self-drive itinerary. Seven days allows you sufficient time to explore the city of Tromsø and its historic streets, hike around isolated islands like Senja and Sommarøy, and sea safari alongside the fjord wildlife on your journey.

Summertime adventures stay golden above the Arctic Circle

Midnight Sun Road Trip in Arctic Norway - 8 Days

This adventurous weeklong road trip from late May to late August begins and ends in Tromsø, the country's gateway to the Arctic, where—during summer months—the sun never sets on these gorgeous views. From here, you'll journey through rugged landscapes of Norway's second largest island (Senja), and partake in active outings like cycling, kayaking, and swimming before ferrying to another less-populated island (Andøya) where spotting whales is practically a guarantee. Hike the coastal trail on the Queen’s Route before heading back to Tromsø for a few more nights of Scandinavian fun.

Tromsø, gateway to the Arctic and one of the northernmost cities on earth.

Norwegian Winter: Oslo, Bergen & Tromsø - 8 Days

Discover Norway's most beautiful season with this 8-day winter adventure by land, sea, and air. Starting in the country's buzzing capital, you'll head west while enjoying spectacular scenery along the famous Flåm Railway. From here, venture through fjords by boat, explore the majestic mountains of Voss, and stroll through the historic wharf city of Bergen. Finish off by flying north to Tromsø—gateway to the Arctic—where you'll venture into the wintry landscape to go dog sledding and (weather permitting) catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

Bergen's UNESCO-listed waterfront after a snowfall.

Oslo, Bergen & Tromsø Winter Adventure - 8 Days

Experience the magic of a Norwegian winter with this diverse 8-day itinerary. After a night in the thriving capital of Oslo, you'll take one of the steepest trains in the world to Flåm's snow-covered fjords. Journey west to Bergen, where you’ll explore its UNESCO-listed waterfront and vibrant restaurants before flying north to picturesque Tromsø. Finish the trip with two nights in the Arctic wilderness, dogsledding through snowy forests and searching for the northern lights.

Look for the Northern Lights while driving through the Lofoten Islands

Lofoten Islands & Tromsø Winter Excursion - 6 Days

Dramatic, snow-covered mountains and the Northern Lights are highlights of this 6-day adventure above the Arctic Circle. Starting in Bodø, you'll ferry to the stunning Lofoten Islands and drive at your own pace through some of Norway's oldest and most colorful fishing towns. Then, exchange your rental car for an overnight coastal steamer where you'll travel to Tromsø for some urban culture and dog sledding.

An aerial view of the Arctic city of Tromsø in summer.

Explore Bergen & Tromsø - 6 Days

Take a whirlwind tour through Norway’s most enchanting destinations on this diverse 6-day itinerary. Start on the southwest coast, where you’ll settle into historic UNESCO-listed Bergen for three nights. Discover the charming port city's character-filled cobbled streets and lively atmosphere, then venture deep into the iconic scenery of the fjords, where you’ll travel by train and boat through some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. End your Norwegian adventure with a flight to the far north, where the Arctic city of Tromsø serves as your base to explore pristine wilderness by dogsled and go searching for the elusive northern lights.

Northern Lights in Senja, Norway's 2nd largest island

Autumn in Northern Norway - 11 Days

Skip the summer crowds with this autumn-themed itinerary in Norway's far north. The adventure begins in Tromsø—'Gateway to the Arctic'—with time to explore the city and a nearby farm. From here, you'll ferry to Senja island and then cruise to the northernmost point of Europe. Continue by bus to Alta for UNESCO-listed rock carvings before returning to Tromsø. Activities depend on the snow (or lack thereof), and each night presents another opportunity to spot the Northern Lights.

Oslo, Bergen & Tromsø Winter Adventure - 9 Days

Skip the crowds and explore Norway at its best with this varied 9-day winter itinerary. Start in the trendy capital of Oslo, where you'll hop on a steep, scenic train to reach the snow-covered mountains and fjords of Flåm. Spend three nights in the colorful, UNESCO-listed waterfront city of Bergen before flying north to end your journey in Tromsø—where you'll search for the northern lights and dogsled through pristine Arctic wilderness.

Arctic Norway Summer Road Trip - 12 Days

This 12-day road trip starts from Tromsø, Norway's 'Gateway to the Arctic', where—in May, June, and July—the sun never sets on these gorgeous views. From here, you'll steer yourself through the rugged landscapes of Senja island and partake in active outings before ferrying across to another less-populated island (Andøya) where spotting whales is practically a guarantee. Hike a coastal trail before heading back to the lively city of Tromsø for a few more nights of Scandinavian fun.

Tromsø to Kirkenes Winter Adventure - 12 Days

This exciting and less-traveled winter adventure takes you deep into Norway's boreal territory for spectacular snowcapped scenery. The trip kicks off in Tromsø, a sophisticated little city known as the 'Paris of the North'. From here, make your way east to Kirkenes—traveling by bus—while taking advantage of unique Arctic excursions and numerous possibilities for spotting the Northern Lights.

A view of Aurora Borealis near Tromsø, Norway.

Norway Northern Lights Road Trip - 7 Days

This scenic winter adventure traverses the Norwegian Arctic and checks off a number of natural and cultural sites starting in the city of Tromsø, nicknamed 'Paris of the North'. From here, hit the road and see rock art in Alta, learn about the indigenous Sami people in Karasjok, and visit a hotel made of snow along the Finnish/Russian border. Each day ends with another opportunity to view the Northern Lights in this beautiful and remote part of the world.

Bergen's waterfront UNESCO World Heritage Site after a snowfall

Oslo, Bergen & Tromsø Winter Adventure - 7 Days

Escape the summer crowds with this winter trip highlighting both southern and northern Norway. Starting in Oslo—Europe's fastest-growing capital—you'll take one of the steepest trains in the world towards the fjords. Then train to Bergen, a UNESCO-listed city loaded with culture and restaurants. Finish with two nights at a resort in the Arctic where you'll dog sled and search for the Northern Lights.

Snow-covered Bergen -- Norway's 2nd largest city.

Norway Epic Winter Excursion: Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø - 7 Days

Experience the best of Norway's winter season in this fun weeklong adventure by land, sea, and air. After a night in the country's buzzing capital, you'll head west whilst enjoying spectacular scenery along the famous Flåm Railway. From here, explore the mountains of Voss and stroll the historic wharf city of Bergen. Finish in Tromsø—gateway to the Arctic—and partake in outdoor activities like dog sledding and (weather permitting) a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Multi-Day Dogsledding Adventure from Tromsø - 7 Days

This arctic itinerary starts in the city of Tromsø before five days of adventure in Northern Norway, Finland, and Sweden. With the help of your private guide, get to know your team of huskies by name, drive your own sled, and enjoy traditional meals around the campfire. Fall asleep each night in traditional Sami tents—or stay up to look for the Northern Lights.

Norway in Winter: Oslo, Bergen & Tromsø - 10 Days

Bundle up warm and immerse yourself in the beauty of a Norwegian winter with this exciting 10-day itinerary. Start in the country's south, where you'll spend two days soaking up the culture and cool of Oslo. After a day sailing through the breathtaking scenery of the fjords, head to the coast to explore the historic port city of Bergen without the summer crowds. Fly north to finish your adventure above the Arctic Circle, where you'll search for the northern lights, learn to dogsled, and discover the lively Arctic city of Tromsø.

Oslo, Bergen, & Tromsø: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Oslo, Bergen, and Tromsø spend about 7 to 10 days in Norway, which usually includes some time in Flåm as well. For travelers wanting to visit Oslo, Bergen, and Tromsø exclusively, plan 7 to 9 days for a well-paced trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as 6 days. Check out our favorite Oslo, Bergen, and Tromsø trips below.

Arctic Norway Summer Road Trip: Tromsø, Senja, Vesterålen & Narvik - 10 Days

Take yourself on a 10-day journey through the Arctic landscapes of northern Norway with this itinerary. You'll explore the craggy coasts, isolated islands, and extensive networks of hiking trails via boat safaris, kayak tours, and your own two legs. Learn about Norwegian history, try to spot eagles, and pet some dogsled huskies along the way.

The elusive aurora borealis lights up the sky near Tromsø

Tromsø & Alta Winter Adventure - 8 Days

Journey deep into Norway's boreal territory on this 8-day winter adventure. Begin in the far northern city of Tromsø, where you'll sled with reindeer during the day and chase the aurora borealis after dark. Continue to Alta (known as "the town of the northern lights") for snowcapped scenery and winter sports in the Arctic wilderness. After skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding your way through the wintry landscapes, spend your evenings warming up in the sauna and stargazing in a rustic lodge.

Spend a good portion of this trip exploring the Lofoten Islands.

Norway Winter Wonderland Tour - 14 Days

Expect uninterrupted snowscapes and Northern Lights sightings on this Arctic adventure. The trip starts in Tromsø, the 'Paris of the North' and your base for several snow activities. Then set sail on the Hurtigruten to the Lofoten Islands before heading to Trondheim, the UNESCO-listed village called Røros, and finally a night in cosmopolitan Oslo.

Enjoy numerous hiking opportunities in this remote part of the world

Wild Islands in Norway's Arctic - 8 Days

Wilder, greener, and more remote than the Lofoten Islands (though you'll have a night here, too), those who come to the Vesterålen archipelago will have access to hiking trails, peaceful beaches, rock formations, and seaside teeming with whales, not to mention extended daylight hours to soak it in by land and sea. Finish with an overnight coastal steamer to Tromsø —a lively city nicknamed 'Paris of the North'.

Northern Norway Arctic Adventure - 5 Days

In less than a week, experience snow-covered scenery and the Northern Lights with this photogenic road-trip through the Lofoten Islands. The trip begins with a car ferry from Bodø, where you'll drive across the coastline at your own pace and explore some of Norway's oldest and most colorful fishing towns hugging the shore with traditional red 'rorbu' (fishermen's huts). Conclude the adventure with an overnight coastal steamer to Tromsø for a slice of Northern Norway's biggest city.

Senja's craggy peaks attract photographers from around the globe

Tromsø & Senja Winter Excursion - 5 Days

This quick-paced yet relaxed Nordic itinerary hits two key spots above the Arctic Circle for travelers keen on skipping high season crowds. You'll start in Tromsø with two days to explore the 'Paris of the North' by foot. From here, travel to Senja, Norway's 2nd largest island, where a local guide who will show you otherworldly coastline, wildlife, fishing villages, and inland lakes and forests. Finish with a Hurtigruten ride through the Norwegian Sea to complete this off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Snowcapped mountains in the Lofoten Islands

Romantic Autumn Adventure in Norway's Arctic - 9 Days

This autumn-themed trip for two explores Norway's snowy Arctic with a variety of travel modes and cozy accommodations. Start with great culture and restaurants in Tromsø before heading to Lyngenfjord, where you'll stay in a glass-topped igloo—prime for spotting the Northern Lights. Then, take an overnight cruise to the Lofoten Islands where you'll pick up a rental car to explore the dramatic landscapes at your own pace.

Oslo to Tromsø Winter Tour -13 Days

Not for the faint of heart, this epic 13-day trip through Norway's wintry north includes a dizzying array of destinations, travel modes, and activities that are highly unique to the Arctic. Start in the capital of Oslo and then take a train to the UNESCO-listed village of Røros. From here, dog sled in the mountains and walk through Trondheim before sailing to the Lofoten Islands. Finish with an overnight cruise to Tromsø for more dog sledding and sophisticated dining options in the 'Paris of the North'.

The Barents Sea off Norway's north coast

Northern Norway Winter Adventure - 13 Days

This exciting 13-day adventure—between late February to early April—takes you deep into Norway's boreal territory for unique winter-themed activities and few crowds. After a few days in Oslo, it's time to fly to Tromsø, 'Gateway to the Arctic', where you'll experience local culture and a farm in the wilderness. Then, drive to Alta, Karasjok, and the North Cape for UNESCO-listed rock art, Sami culture, dog sledding, and hiking around Europe's northernmost point before circling back along the stunning coast.

A view over Bergen city in the afternoon

Norway Highlights: Oslo, Balestrand, Bergen, & Tromsø - 8 Days

After arriving in Oslo, you'll have an afternoon to explore this capital before traveling along the scenic Flåm Railway to the Flåm Village and then taking a ferry to Balestrand, and you'll spend the evening at this fjord-side town. You'll then take another ferry to Bergen, a culturally-rich city with a vibrant bar and restaurant scene, where you'll enjoy a walking tour which includes heading to the top of Mount Fløyen for a view over the city. Your final destination is Tromsø, a charming seaside town, and from here you'll head out in the evening to chase the northern lights!

Summer Road Trip: Midnight Sun in Norways Arctic - 14 Days

This two-week adventure is ideal for travelers who want to make the most of Norway's summer. Start off exploring southern Norway (Oslo, Bergen and the Sognefjord) before flying to the Arctic Circle. From here, you'll rent a car and head to the rugged island of Senja for an active two days of cycling and kayaking before ferrying to smaller Andenes for whale watching. The adventure ends in lively Tromsø and Oslo for festivals and outdoor restaurants.

Explore wintry villages in the Lofoten Islands like this one

Ultimate Winter Tour in Norway's Arctic - 14 Days

This two-week adventure from late September to late March covers a great deal of Norwegian ground for an unforgettable winter trip. You'll experience snow-covered scenery as you visit Norway's lower half (Oslo, Flåm, Bergen) before flying north to the Arctic Circle. From Bodø, you'll catch a ferry to the Lofoten Islands—the southwestern point of this dramatic archipelago with granite mountains shooting up from the sea. Finish the tour with an overnight coastal steamer and enjoy unique activities in Tromsø and Alta before returning back to Oslo for one more night on the town.

Northern Norway Winter Adventure - 14 Days

This exciting two-week road trip from late February to early April takes you deep into Norway's boreal territory for unique winter-themed activities and few crowds. Your self-drive tour begins from Tromsø, 'Gateway to the Arctic', where you can ride a cable car, meet reindeer, and chase the Northern Lights after dark. Continue to Alta for some of the oldest rock art in existence today (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and a 3-day dogsledding tour. From here, drive to Karasjok and Europe's northernmost point where you can hike along the stunning North Cape before flying to Oslo for one more night on the town.

Picturesque villages in the Lofoten Islands

Ultimate Winter Adventure in Norway's Arctic - 12 Days

This epic trip through Norway's wintry north includes a mix of travel modes and activities unique to the Arctic. Your adventure begins in the exciting capital of Oslo followed by the UNESCO-listed village of Røros where you'll dogsled in the mountains. From here, head to the historic city of Trondheim followed by a flight to Tromsø for an overnight in the wilderness. Cap it off with a coastal steamer ride to the Lofoten Islands to snorkel with whales and see the Northern Lights by horseback.

Norway Winter Wonderland Tour - 13 Days

Expect continuous snowscapes and frequent Northern Lights sightings on this 13-day Arctic itinerary that includes fun modes of transportation. The trip starts in Tromsø where you'll have time to explore the 'Paris of the North' before setting sail on the Hurtigruten towards the dramatic Lofoten Islands. From here, head to Norway's third-largest city and the UNESCO-listed village called Røros for a range of activities. Wrap it up with a night in the exciting capital city—Oslo—to finish the adventure.

Norway Winter Adventure: Bergen, Geilo, Oslo, Aurland, Tromsø, & Alta - 14 Days

In Bergen, you can enjoy a local tour of this cobble-stoned wharf city before taking a scenic train journey to Geilo where you will have a day of skiing. The railway will then take you to Aurland, where you'll have a cruise on Nærøyfjord and then depart to Oslo for two nights on the Flåm Railway before flying to Tromsø. Here, you will chase the northern lights in a sled pulled by reindeers and enjoy an authentic wilderness hunting experience—and you'll then make your way to Alta—where you will discover rock art and stay overnight in the Igloo Hotel.

A Northern Lights display from the Lofoten Islands.

Winter Adventure in Norway's Arctic - 10 Days

This epic trip through Norway's wintry north includes an array of activities unique to the Arctic. Each day presents another opportunity for great views and local culture. Snorkel with whales, dogsled with a team of huskies, and best of all, get multiple chances to see the Northern Lights—including on horseback.

A Northern Lights display in the Lofoten Islands

Ultimate Winter Adventure in Norway's Arctic - 11 Days

Ready for a wintry Northern Norway adventure? On this 11-day itinerary, you'll dogsled in the mountains, visit Røros and Trondheim, and stay overnight at a local farm. Then, take a coastal steamer to the dramatic Lofoten Islands where you'll snorkel with whales (yes, even in winter) and see the Northern Lights by horseback.

The village of Reine stays golden under a Midnight Sun

Best of Norway's Arctic Islands - 13 Days

This fun and fast-paced itinerary explores the best of Norway's stunning Arctic coast. Starting from Tromsø, the 'Paris of the North', you'll head to Senja island, the Vesterålen Islands, and Lofoten Islands, respectively. Choose between a number of scenic outdoor activities as you travel by rental car and Hurtigruten cruise—all under the extended daylight hours of the 'Midnight Sun'—for the ultimate summer adventure.

Other popular travel destinations in Norway
Fjord Region · Oslo · Bergen · Northern Norway · Flåm · Aurland · Mountain Region · Alta · Lofoten Islands · Balestrand · Ålesund · Trondheim · Vesterålen · Lusterfjorden · Geilo · Stavanger · Senja · Svolvær · Åndalsnes · Reine · Bodø · Kalvåg · Odda · Geiranger · Røros · Finse · Karasjok · Florø · Sørlandet · Værlandet · Haugastøl · Honningsvåg · Voss · Gudvangen · Kirkenes · Dovrefjell · Valldal

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