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
Senior Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in Tromsø
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Trip Inspiration
Where to go

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.
Discover moreMeet 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.

Wildlife
February - October

Boats
March - June

Northern lights
September - April
Norway Travel Guides
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