Planning a trip to the Arctic? December is one of the best months to visit Tromsø, the capital of Northern Norway and the gateway to unforgettable winter experiences. As the Polar Night wraps the city in its deep blue twilight, visitors can enjoy bucket-list adventures, and some of the most stunning natural phenomena on Earth. From whale watching and snowmobiling to meeting the Indigenous Sámi people, Tromsø in December truly offers it all.
This guide covers the top things to do, essential travel tips, and why December is the busiest month of the year, plus why you should book your tours early. If you’re searching for the best Tromsø December activities, things to do in Tromsø in winter, or Arctic tours in Norway, you’re in the right place.
Why visit Tromsø in December?
December marks the heart of the Polar Night season, when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon, but the sky offers magical northern lights. The landscapes are covered in snow, wildlife is active, and you have access to a full winter program. It’s also the month when you can truly “do it all,” from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences.
On top of that, December is when the Arctic Route winter bus route begins with all its winter bus routes, making it easier than ever to combine destinations like Lyngen, Narvik, Senja, Storslett, and even Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland (one bus during daytime and one during nighttime).
Whale Watching Tours
One of the most unforgettable things to do in Tromsø in December is joining a whale watching tour. This is the peak season for humpback whales and orcas as they follow the herring into the fjords around Skjervøy and the Tromsø region.
You can join hybrid catamarans, RIB safaris, or scenic cruises that take you deep into Arctic fjords. Many tours also include the chance to learn about whale behavior, marine conservation, and Arctic ecosystems.
Dog Sledding Tours
No trip to Arctic Norway is complete without experiencing a classic dog sledding tour. December’s snow and crisp temperatures create perfect conditions for mushing. You can choose between self-driving (where you guide your own sled) or relaxing as a passenger.
Dog sledding is not only an adrenaline-filled adventure but also a cultural experience that connects travelers to the region’s history of sled transport.
Snowmobile Tours
If you would be down to drive something different than usual and you are keen on seeing open landscapes, a snowmobile tour in Tromsø is the way to go. December’s deep snow allows visitors to explore untouched valleys, mountain, and Arctic wilderness areas far beyond the city.
Snowmobile safaris often include scenic stops, warm drinks and food, and local stories about life in the far north.
Reindeer and Sámi Experiences
December is also an excellent month for cultural experiences, especially reindeer and Sámi tours. Guests can visit Sámi camps, learn about Indigenous traditions, feed reindeer, and even try reindeer sledding.
These tours offer meaningful insight into Arctic culture, storytelling, traditional clothing, and the deep relationship between the Sámi people and their reindeer.
Fjord Tours by Boat or Minibus
For travelers who want a more relaxed but equally stunning adventure, fjord sightseeing tours are a must. Whether by boat or minibus, these excursions showcase dramatic mountains, remote fishing villages, frozen lakes, and Arctic wildlife such as eagles, seals, and reindeer.
In December, the soft Polar Night light is perfect for photography due to its light and colour.
The Arctic Route transportation: December bus routes
One of the highlights of visiting Tromsø in December is the start of the winter season for the Arctic Route, the region’s official transport network for Arctic travelers.
This year, the routes include:
- Tromsø ↔ Narvik
- Tromsø ↔ Lyngen
- Tromsø ↔ Storslett
- Tromsø ↔ Senja
- Tromsø ↔ Rovaniemi (Finland) – including both a daytime bus and the brand-new Aurora Express nightliner, the first nightliner bus in all of Northern Europe.
These routes make day trips, multi-destination itineraries, and cross-border travel easier and more comfortable than ever before.
Why you must book your tours early in December
December is the busiest tourism month of the year in Tromsø. Visitors from all around the world come to chase the Northern Lights, experience Arctic wildlife such as whale watching tours, reindeer experiences and dog sledding, and enjoy winter activities. Because of high demand:
- Many tours sell out weeks or even months in advance;
- Popular time slots (especially morning whale tours and evening Northern Lights tours) disappear quickly;
- Transportation routes can reach full capacity.
To avoid disappointment, it’s strongly recommended to book tours online ahead of time, from adventure activities to Arctic Route bus tickets.
