Tromso, nestled amidst the majestic fjords, islands, and mountains of Norway, beckons travelers with its unique blend of Arctic wilderness and urban vibrancy. Often dubbed the “Gateway to the Arctic,” this charming city pulsates with life, offering a kaleidoscope of experiences that go far beyond the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. Here are nine exciting things to do in Tromso, Norway.

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A stone’s throw away from Oslo

Tromso boasts excellent connectivity, with a mere two-hour flight from the Norwegian capital Oslo. This makes it easily accessible for a quick weekend getaway or an extended exploration of the Arctic wonders. One-way direct flights from Oslo to Tromso on Norwegian in December will set you back around a hundred US dollars.

Architectural marvels dot the landscape

Tromso’s urban fabric is adorned with architectural gems that captivate the eye. The Tromso City Library & Archive, housed in a repurposed old cinema building, stuns with its innovative exterior design. The Tromso Cathedral, a majestic landmark and a prominent wooden Protestant cathedral in Norway exudes warmth with its distinctive yellow exterior. You can simply walk around downtown Tromso and enjoy the beauty of these buildings.

Soaring above the city

Take a thrilling ride on the Fjellheisen cable car, a popular tourist attraction. Within four minutes, you’ll be whisked away to the mountain ledge of Mount Storsteinen, where breathtaking panoramic vistas of Tromso unfold before you. Immerse yourself in the Arctic beauty, trek the hills, or savor a warm beverage at the mountain station’s cafe, soaking in the unparalleled views. A roundtrip ride on the cable car will cost you around $43 per person.

A touch of the Arctic

Not far from the Fjellheisen Cable Car station lies the Arctic Cathedral, another architectural marvel renowned for its unique design and striking facade. Its modern, triangular shape, resembling a Sami tent, reflects the region’s indigenous culture.

Stunning fjords and valleys

As you would expect most of the things to do in Tromso involve winter activities. Tromso’s surrounding landscape is a tapestry of stunning fjords and glacially formed coastal valleys, each offering a unique perspective of the Arctic’s raw beauty. Embark on a kayaking adventure amidst the serene fjords, or hike through the valleys, breathing in the crisp Arctic air and marveling at the untouched wilderness.

Fjord tours vary. You can pick from day tours to midnight sun tours, and Northern Lights tours. Tours start around $150 per person and go up based on the type and duration of the trip. If you want flexibility, you can rent a car and brave it on your own. Since we were four people, we decided to rent a Polestar electric car which cost us around $200 for the day.

Thrilling adventures await

Unleash your inner explorer with exhilarating activities like dogsledding. Imagine mushing through the snow-covered wilderness, the wind whipping through your hair as you traverse the frozen landscapes pulled by a team of loyal huskies. This is an experience that will stay etched in your memory forever.

I used Best Artic for a half-day dogsledding adventure. At a cost of $220 per person, the experience was substantialy more affordable than similar adventures offered in Canada and the USA.

Nature’s light show

No trip to Tromso is complete without witnessing the celestial spectacle of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. These dancing streaks of light, painting the night sky in vibrant hues, are a sight to behold. Escape the city lights, chase the Aurora, and witness this mesmerizing phenomenon that has captivated humanity for centuries.

Northern lights can be elusive. We used two companies for our Northern Lights tours —Arctic Experience and Chasing Lights. We had more success with the smaller Arctic Experience.

A taste of the Arctic

Tromso’s culinary scene is a delightful journey for your taste buds. Savor the region’s rich seafood traditions, indulging in dishes like fresh salmon, cod, and king crab. Don’t miss the chance to try the local delicacy, whale meat, ethically sourced and prepared according to traditional methods.

The world’s northernmost brewery

Olhallen Pub is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. As the world’s northernmost brewery, it offers a unique selection of locally crafted beers, perfect for warming up on a chilly Arctic evening.

Beyond the usual

Tromso offers a plethora of other experiences to enrich your visit. Learn about the Sami culture, and the indigenous people of the Arctic, at the Perspektivet Museum. Attend a classical concert at the Harstad Cathedral, a unique wooden structure dating back to the 19th century. Or, simply wander through the city’s charming streets, lined with quaint shops and cafes, soaking in the local atmosphere.

Tromso is a city that defies expectations. It’s a place where urban adventures seamlessly blend with Arctic wonders. Nature’s grandeur takes center stage and cultural experiences leave a lasting impression. So, pack your bags, and embrace the spirit of adventure. Embark on a journey to Tromso, the Arctic jewel of Norway, where memories are made to last a lifetime.

As you can see, there are a lot of things to do in Tromso beyond the Northern Lights.