How to Spend a Weekend in Tromsø Without a Car

Tromsø, Norway's largest city in the north. Surrounded by deep fjords, mountains and known as the captical of the Arctic. Midnight sun in summer, northern lights and whale watching in winter. Most people believe you need a car to visit, but let me show you, you don't. Here's what not to miss when visiting for a weekend in Tromsø.

What's Inside this article?

What to do

Things not to miss when in Tromsø..

Where to Stay

Where is the best and most unique place to stay in town?

Travel Tips

What to actually pack for a trip to the Arctics, and when is the best time to visit?

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This article was partly made in collaboration with Radisson hotels. However, opinions and recommendations are our own.

Moving Postcards from Sommarøy & Tromsø

https://youtu.be/TCJgzNwJFNc?si=G7emG9AUYCW97ouB

What to do in Tromsø Norway

Sommerøy

The Caribbean of the Arctics. White sandy beaches, charming colorful houses and dramatic cliffs touching the sea. We booked a tour and it was the highlight of our trip!

Find the tour here

Fjord Boat Tour

In Tromsø centre, you'll find a boat more than 100 year old called Hermes 2. Enjoy the evening on a fishing boat with the most incredible mountain scenery. Highly recommend!

Find the tour here or a longer tour here

Kvaløya

An island located just outside of Tromsø with beautiful nature and mountains.

Book a tour to go here

Northern Lights

You simply can't visit the Arctics without doing a Northern Lights tour. If you don't want to do the tour, you can walk to Prestvannet. Would however recommend a tour as guides usually find the best spots to watch the lights.

Book a top rated tour here

The Northernmost brewery in the world

Mack Brewery is the world's northernmost brewery and has been independent, family-owned since 1877.

Here you can do a guided tour of the brewery and/or a beer tasting.

Storsteinen

The best view of Tromsø is found at the mountain top Storsteinen, approximately 390 m above sea level.

You can either hike up through Sherpatrappa (stairs) or catch Fjellheisen, the cable car.

Whale Watching

During November to January, you can book a tour to go see whales, orcas and humpbacks in the Arctic fjords.

Book a top rated and ethical tour here.

Reindeers & Learn about Sami Culture

Tromsø has a rich Sami history and active community. With this journey you can experience both reindeers and learn about the Sami Culture.

Sauna

Sauna is one of my favourite ways to unwind, especially during winter. Both Radisson offer a sauna with a view, but if you want a private experience, I would recommend renting a sauna from Pust

Where to Stay in Tromsø Norway

Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø had everything we wanted, the perfect location, beautiful room views of the fjord and a focus on sustainability with a Green Key certification.

It recently became a verified net zero hotel as the hotel runs on renewable energy, they have implemented processes to minimise waste and carbon label their menus. Staying at a net zero hotel means there is no carbon footprint from your stay. Great way to feel a bit more sustainable when travelling!

Where to Eat in Tromsø

Fiskekompaniet

One of the best seafood restaurants in town. When in Norway, you simply cannot miss going to a seafood restaurant, as it's one of the best places in the world to eat seafood.

Yonas

In Norway, pizza is actually one of the most traditional dishes you can eat. Yonas has a wide menu with lots of exciting combinations. Don't miss the nationally famous pizza Tako.

World's Smallest Bar

Rakettkiosken, the world's smallest bar offers Norwegian local sausages and is located right next to Stortorget.

When to Visit Tromsø

Winter, October to March: Best time for northern lights. September and March are shoulder season. Usually good time to see the aurora, yet avoid the most striking coldness

Summer, June to August: milder weather, great time for hiking and midnight sun.

End of May - end of July: Around 20th of May until 22nd of July, you can experience the midnight sun, perfect for night hikes or boat journeys.

November to January: Experience whale watching

Packing Tips

Think layers as it can get quite windy and chilly, even during summer. Wool is your best friend.

Warm mid-layers and a waterproof and windproof shell, combined with good boots, warm gloves and hat.

Some of my favourite Norwegian brands for outdoor activities are Norrøna and Swix.

Winter (Oct–Mar): wool base layers, insulated mid-layer, waterproof/windproof shell, warm waterproof boots, wool socks, hat, gloves, scarf and if you're very cold, hand warmers.

Summer (Jun–Aug): light base layers, a windproof/waterproof jacket (still needed, weather can change rapidly), comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses/eye mask (for the midnight sun if sleeping is an issue).

Year-round packing tips: powerbank (cold drains batteries fast in winter), reusable water bottle and a small day bag for boat/bus trips.

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Enjoy your journey to Tromsø! An incredible place to experience the wonders of nature.

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