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    The last outpost before the frozen Arctic Ocean

    As you arrive in Tromsø, ‘the arctic capital’, you experience a sudden rush of excitement: you’re at the last outpost of civilisation before the wild icy sweeps of the Arctic Ocean. But while the streets and harbour may reflect a past of polar adventure, Tromsø is more than just a dropping off point for Arctic expeditions – it’s a vibrant cultural centre for a region of small fishing villages.

    Located on an island connected by bridges to the mainland, the centre is famous for its charming, old wooden houses, cathedral and century-old cinema. The atmosphere is as lively as you’d expect of a bustling port town, which is also the site of the most northerly university on the planet, and you’ll find many fine restaurants, cafes and bars here. One of the most important observatories in the whole of the Arctic is in Tromsø, specialising in studies of cosmic radiation, meteorology, northern lights and the earth’s magnetic field.

    Green and lit by the midnight sun in the summer, covered in snow and illuminated by the northern lights in winter, Tromsø offers an excellent base from which to launch your own polar expedition further north.

    Highlights

    Visit the Polar Museum and discover the rich history of Arctic exploration.

    Enjoy a scenic ride up to Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views of Tromsø and its surrounding fjords.

    Stroll through the city’s quaint streets, passing by landmarks like the Arctic Cathedral and the lively harbour.

    Tromsø is very special in the summertime. Take a trip on a river motor boat, walk in the boreal forests, go glacier hiking and, if you’re brave, take a dip in the Arctic waters.

    Kate Herz headshot

    Kate Herz

    Senior Travel Designer

    Luxury accommodation in Tromsø

    There are many incredible places to stay in Tromsø. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

    Why book with Jacada?

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    Personalised design

    We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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    Authentic experiences

    Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

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    Responsible travel

    Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

    Ready to plan your adventure?

    Whatever you want from your Tromsø tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

    Where to go

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    Alesund

    Norway's most beautiful town, Alesund is a fantasy land of ornate architecture and winding waterways. After discovering the pretty streets and delicious seafood, go hiking in the surrounding lush green Hjorundfjord and Sunnmore Alps.

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    Bergen

    Bergen is a truly beautiful little city. Surrounded by seven mountains, seven fjords, pine forests and icy waters. Colourful houses form the UNESCO heritage site of Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf with galleries and some of Norway's best restaurants.

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    Kirkenes

    A tiny frontier town with fascinating culture. It’s as far east as you get in Europe, past Saint Petersburg and Cairo and just 15 kilometres from the Russian border. Norwegian, Russian, Sami and Finnish cultures are present in markets, museums and everyday life.

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    Lyngen Alps

    Massive white peaks give way to gentle slopes and pretty lakes with the promise of exciting adventures. Lyngseidet, the main town, has a village feel with brightly coloured houses and shops to explore.

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    Norwegian Fjords

    Sail along Norway's neverending coastline where thousands of ice-age fjords will take your breath away. Sognefjord, Hardangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are the most well known, however, even the smaller lesser known fjords are truly spectacular.

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    Norwegian Lapland

    Norwegian Lapland, or Finnmark, is the home of Sami culture. Glide through snowy landscapes on husky-led sledges or kayak along azure rivers on action-packed adventures.

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    Oslo

    Oslo is Norway's capital and cultural hub. This viking city is steeped in fascinating history, which can be explored on foot. Visit the harbours, museums, galleries, bars and restaurants that make up the eclectic and energetic atmosphere.

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    The Lofoten Islands

    Distinctive scenery, exposed to the open seas and scattered with fishing villages - not only are the Lofton islands characteristically beautiful, there’s also plenty to do. One of Norway’s premier wildlife areas; search for puffins, cormorants, otters and moose.

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    The Svalbard Islands

    Halfway towards the North Pole, a frozen archipelago is waiting to be discovered. Almost half the landmass of the Svalbard Islands is covered by icy glaciers, an intense natural spectacle protected by 7 national parks and 23 nature reserves.

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    Meet your Europe team

    When to visit

    Your experience will differ depending on the season you decide to visit. In summer, animals and fauna thrive during the long stretch of constant light and it’s the best time for exploring fjords and glaciers, kayaking and trekking. The polar winter night means that the Northern Lights are bright and the freezing conditions are great for snowmobiling, skiing, husky sledding and visiting ice caves.

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    Wildlife

    February - October

    Boats main icon

    Boats

    March - June

    Northern lights main icon

    Northern lights

    September - April

    Best time to visit Norway

    Best time to visit Norway

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    Plan your trip to Tromsø

    Whatever you want from your adventure in Tromsø, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

    Plan with peace of mind

    When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.

    If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.

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    Ariel view of waves breaking on a forested shoreline