3 Day Tromsø Itinerary for Winter

Welcome to Tromsø—a compact city with sky-high adventure levels. While Tromsø itself is small by most standards, it’s packed with incredible experiences and a downright magical setting in winter. Think of it as your base camp for bucket-list adventures: dogsledding with huskies, spotting orcas gliding through fjords, and, of course, the reason you’re heading to Tromsø in the first place, witnessing the magical Northern Lights.

While three days in Tromsø might not cover everything (it’s tempting, but there’s only so much daylight to work with), it’s enough to dive deep into the best of the Arctic scene.

A Few Pre-Trip Tips

Tours

If there’s one place to plan ahead, it’s Tromsø in winter. Small group tours are especially popular and can book out fast, so make those reservations early. For a detailed look at the best winter tours and how to choose, head to my Winter Travel Guide to Tromsø.

Dining Reservations

While you likely won’t have any problem with lunch, dinner can be very busy during the winter season at Tromsø’s best restaurants. Reserve in advance when you can.

Need a Place to Stay?

For those wondering where to base themselves, I’ve put together a guide on 15 Best Hotels in Tromsø for Any Budget—from cozy guesthouses to modern stays with fjord views. Check it out for my top picks to suit every type of traveler.

Packing for the Arctic Circle

If packing for extreme winter temps feels a bit daunting, check out my Winter Packing Guide: Arctic Circle Edition, complete with a free packing list and expert tips for layering up, choosing the right gear, and staying warm without overpacking.

3 Day Tromsø Itinerary:

Day 1: Heights and Northern Lights

Morning: Explore Town

Start with a Tromsø classic with breakfast at Kaffebønna Stortorget. Once you’re properly caffeinated, check out Tromsø’s compact city center. The brightly colored wooden buildings and inviting little shops might be touristy, but they have charm in spades. Pop into a few boutiques for Arctic-themed souvenirs or maybe some cozy Norwegian wool.

Mid-Morning: Arctic Cathedral and Tromsø Bridge

Next, make your way to the Arctic Cathedral—this stunning modern church with its sharp, angular design and striking stained-glass window is a Tromsø icon. You can take Bus 20, 24, or 28 from Stortorget, or if you’re up for a crisp walk, cross the Tromsø Bridge by foot in about 20 minutes. The views from the bridge alone are worth it; you’ll catch the fjords stretching out below, flanked by snow-capped mountains.

Afternoon: Fjellheisen Cable Car

Time to reach new heights. Hop on Bus 26 to the Fjellheisen Cable Car, which takes you up Storsteinen Mountain. From the top, the panorama of Tromsø framed by blue fjords and jagged peaks is unreal. Stop by Fjellstua Café for a quick bite and, if you’re lucky, a seat by the window. If you’d rather head back down for a late lunch, NYT in town has a hearty menu that’ll set you up for the night ahead.

Evening: Northern Lights Tour

Finally, it’s time for the main event—chasing the Northern Lights. With a solid small group tour, like those from Greenlander or Wandering Owl (both are excellent), your guide will drive you to remote spots far from city lights, where the auroras have their best chance to shine.

These small group tours offer a more intimate vibe, and the guides are experts at finding those elusive lights. They even come prepared with hot drinks, snacks, and campfire setups. (We had delicious vegan soup and hot tea and coffee around a campfire on my tours). And if you’re worried about staying warm, they’ll set you up with thermal suits to keep the Arctic chill at bay.

Day 2: Whales and Fjords

Morning and Afternoon: Whale Watching

If your 3 day trip to Tromsø is between November and January, lucky you—it’s whale season! Tromsø’s fjords attract orcas, humpbacks, and occasionally fin whales as they hunt in the icy waters. Set aside most of the day for a whale-watching tour that’ll have you marveling at these gentle giants in their natural element. A few top recommendations:

• Brim Explorer Silent Whale Watching Tour: This hybrid-electric catamaran is quieter, making it eco-friendly and whale-friendly. Expect informative presentations from the guides and cozy indoor seating, so you’re comfortable even in the heart of Arctic winter. The boat leaves from the city center in front of the Clarion Edge hotel. Book this tour here.
• Whale and Wildlife Arctic Safari: Another excellent option with warm seating indoors and outdoor viewing decks. Guides share fascinating info about the Arctic ecosystem, and there’s food for sale on board if you get peckish. Book this tour here.
• Whale Watching RIB Tour: For those wanting a bit of thrill, the RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) is a faster, closer-to-the-water experience. It’s a long day, with some travel by bus to reach the whale feeding grounds near Skjervøy, but the chance to be near these enormous creatures in a small boat is unforgettable. Warm flotation suits are included! Book this tour here.

Lunch on the Boat: Most catamarans have food and drinks available for purchase. Expect sandwiches, hot drinks, and pastries—perfect for a cozy day on the water.

Alternative: Fjord Boat Tour

If you’re outside whale season, a fjord boat tour is just as spectacular. You’ll still get those sweeping mountain views, plus a glimpse into the marine ecosystem with occasional sightings of seals, seabirds, and maybe even a rare Arctic fox along the shore. Most whale-watching companies offer similar tours off-season, with the same cozy boats and viewing decks.

Recommended Fjord Boat Tours:

1. Fjord Excursion with Brim Explorer
   This eco-friendly boat tour takes you through Tromsø’s stunning fjords, with spectacular views and plenty of photo opportunities. The silent electric catamaran (the same they use for whale watching) is a peaceful and sustainable way to experience the fjords and has plenty of comfortable warm indoor seating and outdoor viewing areas. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board. Book this tour here.
2. Polar Adventures’ Fjord Cruise
   This tour offers a comfortable and scenic cruise through Tromsø’s beautiful fjords on a comfortable boat with indoor and outdoor seating and lunch included. Book this tour here.

Dinner options

After a day on the fjords, sit down for a memorable dinner at Fiskekompaniet, where Tromsø’s fresh seafood is the star. For a more laid-back option, Bardus Bistro offers Scandinavian-inspired dishes with a cozy, rustic vibe.

After-Dinner Options

1. Drinks at Blårock Café
   If you’re in the mood to unwind with some music and local brews, Blårock Café is the spot. This Tromsø favorite has a rock-and-roll atmosphere, a wide beer selection, and an upstairs lounge that often has live music—perfect for an energetic end to the day.
2. DIY Northern Lights Chase
   Or, if you’re up for another Northern Lights adventure, Tromsø has some great spots right near the city where you can catch the auroras without a guide. For directions to the top locations that are accessible by foot or bus, check out the 4 Best Spots in Tromsø to See the Northern Lights. Just bundle up and keep your eyes on the sky!

Day 3: Dogsledding and Local Sights

Morning: Smørtorget and Dogsledding

Start the day with a quick breakfast at Smørtorget, known for its house-made pastries. Then it’s time for dogsledding—a Tromsø must. There’s nothing like gliding through the snowy landscape pulled by a team of eager huskies. And if you’re worried about ethical concerns, rest assured: Norway’s animal welfare standards are strict, and the dogs’ excitement to run is all too obvious.

• Arctic Adventure Tours’ Husky Safari: Drive your own sled (with guidance), cuddle with the dogs after the ride, and warm up with a drink and cake in a traditional Lavvu tent. Book this tour here.
• Tromsø Villmarkssenter Dog Sledding Adventure: Another reputable company that combines sledding with a hot lunch served in a Lavvu. You’ll have the chance to interact with the huskies and learn about the art of mushing from experienced guides. Book this tour here.

Afternoon: Souvenirs or Seals at Polaria

Wrap up your Arctic shopping with a wander through Tromsø’s local boutiques. This is your chance to stock up on handcrafted jewelry, Nordic knitwear, and other Arctic-inspired treasures.

Or, if you’ve exhausted your souvenir budget and are up for a unique indoor option, head to Polaria—an Arctic aquarium featuring seals, fish tanks, and interactive exhibits on Arctic wildlife. The seals are especially popular, because they’re trained to perform dives and underwater flips, and they’re just plain adorable. It’s a fun indoor way to occupy a few hours this afternoon.

Dinner Options

If you’re up for a splurge, on your final night in Tromsø, treat yourself to a culinary experience at Smak. This intimate restaurant specializes in multi-course tasting menus that celebrate the finest Norwegian ingredients. Expect a warm welcome, artfully crafted dishes, and curated wine pairings that make for an unforgettable meal (this was by far the best meal I had when I was in Tromsø). You’ll definitely need to reserve in advance.

Alternatively, for something a bit more relaxed, Art Café Bistro has a cozy, artsy vibe and a well-rounded menu that doesn’t skimp on quality. It’s a popular place, so a reservation is a good idea.

After Dinner Options

1. Nightcap at Hildr Gastro Bar
   Wind down with a craft cocktail or local beer at cozy Hildr Gastro Bar.
2. Yet Another Aurora Chase:
   Can’t get enough of the Northern Lights? (I, for one, have a hard time imaging that I would ever get tired of seeing them.) Book another aurora chase! Greenlander and Wandering Owl are my recommendations for excellent small group tours with knowledgable guides.
3. Northern Lights from a Hot Tub: Another fun Northern Lights viewing option for your final night is a northern lights boat cruise where there’s a hot tub on board and dinner is provided. There’s somewhat less of a chance of seeing the lights from a boat cruise because they don’t have the ability to  travel as far away from Tromsø as the aurora chase tours do, but the lights are often visible from town and this is a really fun and unique experience. Book this tour here.

Three days in Tromsø go by fast, but they’re packed with experiences that stick with you long after you leave. From gliding along fjords and dogsledding across Arctic snow to scanning the skies for the Northern Lights, Tromsø is full of those “only here” moments.

While this 3 day Tromsø itinerary covers the main highlights, leave a little wiggle room for surprises—a cozy café, a snow-covered viewpoint, or even a spontaneous chat with a local who knows this place inside and out. Tromsø is more than just big-ticket adventures; it’s the small, unexpected moments that make it special.

So as you head home, don’t be surprised if a little piece of the Arctic stays with you—and you find yourself planning a return trip before long.

For lots more helpful advice for planning a trip to Tromsø be sure to check out my Tromsø Winter Travel Guide!

If you’re planning your own Tromsø adventure, I’d love to hear what’s on your list—or answer any questions if you’re still ironing out the details! Drop a comment below with your plans, tips, or anything Tromsø-related. And if you’ve been to the Arctic before, let me know your favorite spots and experiences!