15 Best Winter Activities in Tromsø
If you’re wondering what to do in Tromsø in winter, you’ve landed in the right place. Tromsø, Norway is a winter wonderland full of exhilarating Arctic experiences and stunning natural beauty. From chasing the mesmerizing Northern Lights or feeding reindeer, to learning about the indigenous Sami culture, or cruising through picturesque fjords on the way to spot some orcas, there’s no shortage of unforgettable winter activities in Tromsø.
This guide details the best things to do in Tromsø when the temperature drops and the snow blankets the landscape. Whether you’re visiting Tromsø for the aurora borealis, arctic wildlife, or just want to explore the serene snowy wilderness, this list of the top Tromsø winter activities has you covered.
Don’t know a lick of Norwegian? No worries! All of the tours linked below are led by English speaking guides.
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Table of Contents
1. Chase the Northern Lights
Deep in the heart of the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of the world’s premier destinations for experiencing the breathtaking aurora borealis, and it’s probably one of the main reasons you’re considering a trip to Tromsø in the winter in the first place. Winter in Tromsø offers the perfect backdrop for this celestial spectacle, with long, dark nights, clear skies, and slightly “warmer” temps compared to other parts of the Arctic Circle because of its coastal location (though it’s still plenty cold!). This magical natural phenomenon is best observed from late September to early April, with peak viewing times during the dark Polar winter in December and January.
But seeing the Northern Lights isn’t just about luck—it’s about being in the right place at the right time, and often, having the right guides to get you there. Here are some of the best ways to see the Northern Lights during a winter trip to Tromsø, including guided tours, boat cruises, and excellent viewing locations in or near town:
Guided Aurora Hunt Tours
One of the best ways to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights is by joining a guided tour. Local guides are experts at reading the weather and aurora forecasts, and they know the best spots to drive to to escape light pollution. Plus, they provide thermal suits, and hot drinks, and snacks, and will build a campfire to keep you warm during the wait. The guides on these tours will also snap professional photographs that you’ll be able to download afterwards so you don’t have to worry about trying to take pics on your own.
You’ll have the best experience with a small group tour rather than a big bus tour. These tours are typically around 8 people total, which means more personalized attention and a better chance to ask questions and learn about the aurora. If you want to do a small group tour, be sure to book in advance as they generally will sell out. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand in case your plans change or the weather is not cooperating.
recommended Small Group NORTHERN LIGHTS Tours:
These tours all include thermal suits upon request, hot drinks and snacks, and a very knowledgable guide who will drive to best aurora location based on the forecasts, will build a small campfire to keep everyone warm, and will also take professional photographs you can download afterwards so you can focus on the experience rather than fiddling with your camera:
- Greenlander Small Group Northern Lights Adventure
- Wandering Owl Small Group Aurora Hunt Tour
- Northern Horizon Small Group Northern Lights Tour
REcommended Photography-FOCUSED NORTHERN LIGHtS Tours:
If capturing the Northern Lights on camera is your goal, look for tours that cater specifically to photographers. The guides on these small group tours will help you set up your camera and offer tips for getting the best shots:
- Tromsø Activities Northern Lights Photography Tour
- Northern Soul Adventures Northern Lights Photography Tour
Northern Lights Cruises
Seeing the Northern Lights from the water is a unique and unforgettable experience, though your chances will always be better with a land tour because they can cover more distance. But if the aurora forecast looks promising, these cruises take you away from the city lights and have heated indoor areas to warm up, as well as outdoor viewing areas. One unique option even has a hot tub on deck!
- Brim Explorer Electric Northern Lights Cruise
- Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner
- Aurora Cuisine Cruise
Best Places to see Northern Lights in Tromsø
If you’d rather chase the Northern Lights on your own, there are several great spots in and close to the Tromsø city center, accessible by walking or by bus, where you can set up camp and wait for the show. Here are 4 of the best places in Tromsø proper to see the Northern Lights: (1) Prestvannet Lake; (2) Telegrafbukta; (3) Tromsø Bridge; and (4) Top of Mount Storsteinen.
2. Dog Sledding Adventure
Dog sledding is a quintessential winter activity in Tromsø; an adrenaline-filled way to explore the Arctic wilderness. If you’ve never been dogsledding before, I highly recommend trying to work this activity into your trip!
What to Expect: Glide through snow-covered landscapes, led by a team of enthusiastic huskies. You can choose to ride as a passenger or learn to mush your own team (or both!). These dog sledding adventure tours last about half a day and include transportation from the city center and back, as well as hot lunch in a lavvu (traditional Sami tent) to warm up afterwards.
If you’re concerned about whether dogsledding is ethical (I know I was the first time I did it), rest assured that Norway has strict animal cruelty laws and the dogs are well cared for. Also, you’ll see when you get there, these dogs are high energy and they love love love to run – they absolutely live for it – pulling a sled is fun for them!
Recommended Dog Sledding Tours:
3. Reindeer Sledding and Sami Culture
Take a deep dive into northern Norway’s indigenous culture with a trip to a Sami camp. The tours below offer transport service from the city center and a stunning ride through the snowy landscapes, and a half-day packed with unique experiences:
- Reindeer Sledding: Feel the thrill of gliding through the snow on a sled pulled by reindeer, an ancient mode of transportation still very much a part of Sami life.
- Hands-on Activities: Post-sled, roll up your sleeves for some hands-on fun like lassoing reindeer, feeding reindeer, and traditional crafting. It’s all accompanied by local stories and joiks, traditional Sami songs (pronounced “yoiks”), giving you fascinating insight into the Sami way of life.
- Traditional Sami Meal: Cozy up in a lavvu, a traditional Sami tent, for a traditional meal by crackling fire. Think local, think hearty – with dishes featuring reindeer meat, fresh fish, and berries.
Recommended Sami Culture Tours:
Another option is to book a nighttime Sami camp visit with a chance to see the Northern Lights,. This tour is similar to the daytime tours and includes dinner and learning about Sami culture. Your chances of seeing the lights will likely be better on a Northern Lights chase tour, but if the aurora forecast looks good, this can be an amazing and unique experience.
- Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights
- Reindeer Feeding and Sami Culture with a Chance of Northern Lights
4. Whale Watching Safaris
NOTE: Whale watching season in Tromsø runs from the beginning of November to the end of January.
If you can fit it into your schedule, another very popular thing to do in winter in Tromsø is whale watching. On these tours, you’ll have a chance to see humpback whales, orcas, and maybe fin whales or sperm whales against the backdrop of stunning fjords. The tours usually last a full day because the boats have to travel to the rich feeding grounds where the whales congregate near Skjervøy, about a 2-3 hours boat ride or 3-4 hour drive from Tromsø. While that may seem like a long ride each way, the views of the fjords are stunning and the ride goes by quickly. The water can be a bit choppy, so if you’re prone to seasickness make sure to take precautions.
Recommended Whale Watching Tours:
- Brim Explorer Silent Whale Watching Tour
This tour offers a unique experience aboard a comfortable, large hybrid-electric catamaran, which creates less underwater noise and is better for the whales. The boat has plenty of indoor warm seating and outdoor viewing decks, with food and drink available for purchase. This was the tour I did and I highly recommend it. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic about whales and give a few presentations about whales (in English) during the ride to Skjervøy which were very interesting and helped pass the time. The boat leaves from the city center in front of the Clarion Edge hotel. - Whale and Wildlife Arctic Safari
This highly rated tour takes you on a comfortable catamaran, with both indoor and outdoor viewing areas, and plenty of warm indoor seating and food available for purchase. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the marine life and ecosystem of the Arctic. - Whale Watching RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) Tour
While this tour is a long day, including quite a bit of time on a bus to get to and from the whale feeding grounds near Skjervøy, the small RIB means you can really get up close and personal with any whales in a way that the larger catamarans cannot. While I did not do the RIB boat tour in Tromsø, I did do one in Iceland, and take it from me, RIB boats are fast and fun! The tour will provide thermal flotation suits to keep you warm on the boat. This tour also includes lunch.
5. Fjord Cruise
If you’re visiting Tromsø outside of whale watching season, a half-day guided fjord boat tour is a wonderful way to see stunning landscapes from the water, learn about the local ecosystem, and enjoy the serene beauty of Tromsø’s fjords. Many of the whale watching tour companies use the same boats to run these tours outside of whale watching season, so they’ll generally have lots of warm indoor seating and food and drink included or available for purchase on board.
Recommended Fjord Boat Tours:
6. Arctic Nature Photography Tour
Recommended SMALL GROUP Photography Tours:
- Wandering Owl’s Arctic Landscape & Fjord Tour
This small group tour (8 people max) is perfect for photography enthusiasts. I did this tour on my last day in Tromsø and enjoyed it more than I expected to, mostly because the light in late January was stunning for photography (sunrise, magic hour, sunset, and blue hour all within a few hours of each other). Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the Arctic landscape, and took us to some epic locations to get the best shots. You’ll explore scenic fjords, learn about local history, probably see some reindeer, and enjoy a packed sandwich lunch in the middle of stunning scenery. The guides also take professional photographs that you’ll be able to download afterwards. - Norwegian Fjord Tour
Another excellent small group option, this tour takes you to some of the most picturesque spots around Tromsø, and includes lunch.
7. Ice Fishing
Guided by experienced locals, you’ll travel from central Tromsø to a prime fishing spot on the frozen fjord, where you’ll drill holes in the ice and learn traditional fishing techniques. All the necessary equipment is provided, including thermal suits if you need one. As an added bonus, if you catch a fish, you’ll learn how to clean and cook it back at base camp. Warm beverages and snacks are included to keep you cozy while you fish.
Recommended Ice Fishing Excursion:
8. Snowmobile Adventure
Snowmobile tours are an exhilarating way to explore the Arctic wilderness. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll head out on a thrilling ride across snowy landscapes, across frozen lakes by majestic mountain ranges. These tours include all necessary gear, ensuring you stay warm and safe throughout the experience. You’ll have the chance to drive the snowmobile yourself and ride as a passenger. Tours also include warm beverages and snacks.
Recommended SNOWMOBILE TOURS:
9. Overnight Stay in a Lavvo
An overnight Lavvo stay in Tromsø is a unique Arctic adventure that combines traditional Sami culture with modern comfort. You will stay in a Lavvo, a traditional Sami tent, that provides a cozy and warm retreat amidst the polar night. You’ll learn about Sami culture, enjoy some traditional food, and take a reindeer sledding ride. And, if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights will cooperate and make the experience unforgettable!
Recommended overnight lavvo experiences:
10. Winter Sea Kayaking
On these winter sea kayaking tours, you’ll paddle through icy waters, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, with all the necessary gear to keep you warm and comfortable. Along the way, you might spot seals or other wildlife. Snacks and hot drinks are provided as well. It’s a unique and memorable way to experience the natural beauty of Tromsø in winter.
Recommended sea kayaking tours:
11. Arctic Floating
What on earth is arctic floating? Essentially, exactly what it sounds like – you suit up in a warm flotation suit, and float in the icy water surrounded by gorgeous scenery. Afterwards, warm up around a campfire with snacks and hot drinks. Unique and exhilarating!
RECOMMENDED ARCTIC FLOATING EXCURSIONS:
12. Visit a Traditional Norwegian Fishing Village
A half day fjord tour which will take you to some epic viewpoints on the islands around Tromsø, culminating in a visit to the quaint fishing village of Sommarøy. These tours include lunch and hot drinks to warm up.
Recommended Fishing Village TourS
13. Cross Country Skiing
Try your hand at Norway’s national sport on a cross country skiing excursion through the Arctic wilderness. These tours provide skis, poles, and experienced instructors – no prior experience necessary!
Recommended Cross Country Skiing Tours
14. Snowshoeing
Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll trek through snowy trails, surrounded by stunning winter scenery and pristine nature. These tours provides all the necessary equipment, including snowshoes and poles, as well as snacks and hot drinks.
Recommended Snowshoe Tours
15. Must Do Tromsø Winter Activities in Town
Be sure not to overlook all the activities in Tromsø proper as well. Here’s a rundown of some of the best winter activities to do in town, with links to more information about each one.
Fjellheisen Cable Car
The Fjellheisen Cable Car takes you up Storsteinen Mountain, with stunning panoramic views of Tromsø and its surrounding fjords. At the top, there’s a cozy restaurant called Fjellstua, where you can enjoy a warm drink or a meal surrounded by breathtaking scenery. For the adventurous, there are several hiking trails starting from the summit.
Polar Museum
The Polar Museum is housed in a historic building from the 1830s and has fascinating exhibits about Arctic exploration and hunting. Learn about the expeditions of explorers like Roald Amundsen and the harsh realities faced by polar hunters. It’s an engaging and educational visit, perfect for anyone interested in history and the Arctic region.
Polaria Arctic Aquarium
Polaria, the world’s northernmost aquarium, features Arctic marine life, including bearded seals and various fish species. The building itself is designed to resemble Arctic ice floes. Don’t miss the seal feeding sessions, which are both entertaining and informative, offering insights into marine conservation. You can also book one on one meetings with the seals!
Arctic Cathedral
The Arctic Cathedral is an architectural landmark with its unique triangular shape, inspired by icebergs and the rugged Nordic landscape. Inside, the cathedral features stunning stained glass windows. It’s a beautiful place to visit, whether you’re attending a concert or just there for the architecture.
Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden
The Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden is the world’s northernmost botanic garden, showcasing plants from polar regions and high mountains. Even in winter, you can see a variety of resilient plants that thrive in the harsh Arctic conditions. It’s a peaceful place for a stroll and an educational experience for those interested in botany and nature.
Pust Sauna
Pust Sauna is a floating sauna in the Tromsø harbor. Warm up in the traditional wood-fired sauna and, if you’re brave enough, take a dip in the icy ocean before running back into the sauna – a quintessential Nordic activity! (But really, the sauna and cold dip is an awesome experience – somehow exhilarating and relaxing at the same time.)
Hopefully this list of winter activities in Tromsø helps you plan an epic Arctic adventure. For more info to make your trip to Tromsø unforgettable, check out my Tromsø Winter Travel Guide!
