If you’ve been dreaming about a real winter wonderland, Tromso is where that dream comes to life. Snow-covered streets, pink sunsets over icy fjords, and the chance to see the Northern Lights dancing above your head – this Arctic gem is truly something else.
We visited Tromso in the middle of winter, and honestly, it felt like stepping into a snow globe. Whether you’re here for adventure or slow cozy days, there are so many incredible things to do. So, if you’re wondering what to do in Tromso, here’s a mix of our favorite experiences, insider tips, and must-dos to make your trip unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a more detailed plan of what to do day by day, check out our Travel Itinerary for 2 Days in Tromso – it’s packed with step-by-step activities and personal tips.
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Meet the Reindeer & Learn About the Sami Culture
This was one of the most special moments of our trip. Just a short ride from Tromso, you’ll find reindeer camps run by local Sami families who’ll share their traditions and stories with you. You can feed the reindeer, go for a short sled ride, and warm up with a reindeer stew (or veggie soup) inside a cozy lavvu tent.
It’s more than a tourist activity – it’s a glimpse into an ancient Arctic culture that’s still very much alive today.
💡 Tip: Book early! The reindeer experiences fill up fast in winter. Dress extra warm – even with the provided gear, the Arctic wind can be brutal.
This is the tour we booked and we were more than happy with the tour guides and the program, truly an unique experience!
Chase the Northern Lights
No list of what to do in Tromso would be complete without mentioning the Northern Lights. Tromsø is one of the best places on Earth to see the Aurora Borealis, but it’s also one of the trickiest – clear skies and patience are key.
You can go on a guided Northern Lights chase, where expert guides drive you away from city lights, set up a campfire, and help you capture those magical green swirls in the sky. Even if the lights don’t show up (they can be shy!), the experience itself – sitting by a fire under the Arctic stars – is worth it.
💡 Tip: Book a tour that includes photos taken by a professional guide. It’s hard to capture the Aurora with a regular phone, and you’ll want those memories saved properly!
For even more tips on spotting the Aurora, check our guide to chasing the Northern Lights in Norway – it’s full of insider advice and photography hacks.
Here are some of the best rated guided tours we considered booking:
Take the Fjellheisen Cable Car for a Panoramic View
If you’re wondering what to do in Tromso that doesn’t require freezing for hours, this one’s perfect. The Fjellheisen Cable Car takes you up Mount Storsteinen for a breathtaking view of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords.
Go during sunset (around 2–3 PM in winter) to see the sky turn shades of purple and pink. It’s pure magic. There’s a cozy café at the top where you can warm up with a hot chocolate while admiring the view.
💡 Tip: Buy your ticket online to skip the queue. It costs around 47 EUR for a return trip.
Visit the Huskies — With or Without Sledding
Another highlight for us was visiting a husky farm. You can either join a full sledding tour or just visit to meet the dogs and learn more about their life in the Arctic. These huskies are full of energy, love cuddles, and are absolutely adorable.
If you choose the visit-only option, it’s more relaxed and usually includes dinner in a warm tent with hot drinks by the fire – the perfect cozy end to a cold day.
💡 Tip: Book a daytime sledding tour if you want action. Evening visits are more chill, with chances to see the Northern Lights too.
Here are some of the best rated tours you can consider booking:
Walk Around Tromsø City Center
You might not expect it, but Tromsø’s city center has so much charm. Colorful wooden houses, cute cafés, and shops selling Arctic gear – it’s the perfect place to just wander.
Don’t miss:
- The Arctic Cathedral – stunning architecture, especially at night when it’s lit up
- Tromsø Bridge – for great city and fjord views
- The world’s smallest bar – where you can try a reindeer hot dog (a bit pricey, but worth the experience!)
💡 Tip: Download the Svipper app for easy bus tickets. Public transport here is super efficient and affordable.
For more practical tips about visiting Tromso in winter, including transport, clothing, and timing, check out 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Tromso in Winter blog.
Discover the Fjords: Kaldfjord & Ersfjord
If you want to experience Arctic nature without a tour, these fjords are easy to reach from Tromsø. We took a bus to Kaldfjord and then an Uber to Ersfjord – a peaceful little village surrounded by dramatic snowy peaks.
Walking along the fjord feels like stepping into a postcard. If you’re lucky, you might even spot seals or eagles!
💡 Tip: If you don’t have a car, plan transport ahead. Buses run less often in winter, especially on Sundays.
Visit Tromso’s Coolest Winter Spots
If you’ve ticked off the main highlights and still have time, here are a few extra things to do in Tromso in winter:
- Tromsø Ice Domes – an incredible ice hotel built fresh every year. You can visit for a guided tour or stay overnight if you want the full Arctic fairytale.
- The Polar Museum – dive into Norway’s polar exploration history and Arctic wildlife.
- Troll Museum – fun, interactive, and perfect if you’re traveling with kids or love mythology.
- Telegrafbukta Beach – yes, Tromsø has beaches! It’s a local favorite for Northern Lights watching or a quiet evening walk.
- Polaria Museum: A unique Arctic experience with interesting exhibits. If you plan well in advance, try to book the “Ice to Meet You” experience, where you can see seal feeding from the front row and meet the Bearded Seals! Only a few people are allowed per day, so book early!
Hungry after all that exploring? Our foodie guide 10 Must-Try Foods in Tromso: What & Where to Eat + Photos! has the best Arctic eats, cafés, and cozy dinner spots.
Warm Up in Tromso’s Cafés and Restaurants
After all the snow and adventure, nothing beats cozying up in a café with a cinnamon bun and coffee. Our personal favorites:
- Smørtorget – artsy café with good coffee and soups
- Kaffebønna – local chain with several locations, always buzzing
- Mathallen – perfect for dinner; try the Arctic char or Bacalao stew
💡 Tip: Alcohol is pricey in Norway, so if you’re craving a drink, go during happy hour or buy something from duty-free before arriving!
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a trip and wondering what to do in Tromso in winter, trust us – you’ll never run out of things to experience. From reindeer and huskies to the surreal glow of the Northern Lights, Tromsø is a place that feels straight out of a dream.
Bundle up, stay curious, and let the Arctic magic do its thing. You’ll leave with frozen fingers but a very, very warm heart. ❄️💙