The 10 best things to do in Tromsø, Norway in winter

1. Go on a professional northern lights tour!

Tromsø is one of the best places on the whole planet to observe this phenomenon due to being placed in the middle of the constant aurora oval and benefiting from the microclimates created by the fjords and mountains. You can check all the different northern lights trips we offer!

2. Try dog sledding!

A fantastic activity that you must experience for yourself. Besides the beautiful snowy landscapes and cute dogs, you will enjoy an action-packed adventure and immerse yourself in the stunning arctic landscape. This classic northern adventure is often number one on the visitor’s bucket list. You can check which dog sledding tours to try in the Tromsø area here.

3. Tromsø Badet

Located on the top of the island (Tromsøya) and just a short bus ride away, you will find Tromsø Badet. Here you can relax or work out in the numerous indoor pools and even an outdoor pool. There is also a wellness area, with a Finish sauna, steam baths, water slides, and a fabulous plunge pool! Tromsø Badet is an excellent alternative for families traveling with children. Tromsø Badet also offers a café where you can buy food and drinks! Try it and let us know what you think!

4. Ice skating

Yes, you can go ice skating in Tromsø during the winter months! Rent a pair of ice skates from our partners Tromsø Outdoor, and take the bus to Prestvannet, located on the top of the island (check the ice conditions and if it is allowed) – it is entirely free to ice-skate here. Another option would be in Tromsdalen, located on the mainland across the bridge, on the Tromsdalen Kunstibane (Elvestrandvegen 22, Tromsø). Here you will find professionally prepped ice and speed skating option in addition to free skating options. There is a small entrance fee. There is also an indoor ice-skating spot at the Fløyahallen. Just take the bus 20 or 24 from the city center. The entrance costs about 100 NOK (adult price), but if you are a student, the ticket is 50 NOK!

5. Learn cross-country skiing!

There is a saying that all Norwegians are bone with a set of skies on their feet – this would certainly explain all the Norwegian gold medalists from the winter Olympics! We offer beginner courses for cross-country skiing to try it for yourself and see what the buzz is about. Experiencing cross-country skiing in Norway is the equivalent of eating cheese in France and biking in the Netherlands.

6. Pust (sauna in Tromsø)

It is located in the middle of Tromsø harbor, in the city center. This sauna has a fantastic view over Fløya, the cable car mountain. This drop-in sauna has room for 12 people, and you can even book it for a private event! You can even jump into the icy fjord right outside if you are courageous enough! According to ice bathing devotees, it is the secret to a long and healthy life.

7. Eat the best sushi in town

There are many great restaurants in Tromsø. However, if you are a sushi lover like us, we strongly recommend Rå Sushi restaurant. Here you will find high-quality sushi, and this restaurant has a unique feature: an aquarium hosting only local fish species right in the middle of the restaurant.

8. Whale Watching

One of the best-selling activities in Tromsø for a good reason! Seeing these majestic creatures feeding on the big herring shoals in the frozen fjords is a unique and spectacular experience. The local whale seasons run from November to January. You can check out our whale-watching tours in Tromsø here.

9. Ice fishing

How does fishing in the middle of an ice lake or on a frozen fjord sound to you? Breathe the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful arctic landscape on this classic polar activity. We will help with drilling a hole in the ice and learn how to attach bait for the fish. Curious already? Check this icy arctic activity!

10. Visit the indigenous Sami people, learn about their culture, and meet their reindeer!

Visiting the reindeer camps is a magical experience transporting you back in time and will leave you with both newfound knowledge and respect for the Sami culture. We recommend this experience for animal lovers and culture seekers alike.