Winter is one of the most popular times to visit Tromsø. Between November and March, the region transforms into a landscape of snow-covered mountains, Arctic coastlines and dramatic seasonal light conditions. Travelers come from around the world to experience the atmosphere of the Arctic during its coldest months.
From the Polar Night to the return of longer daylight hours later in the season, winter offers a unique setting for travel in Northern Norway. It is also the time of year when many of the region's most sought-after activities and seasonal experiences take place.
Winter opens the door to experiences that can only be enjoyed during the colder months. Snow-covered mountains, frozen landscapes and Arctic wildlife create the setting for a variety of activities both within the city and across the surrounding region.
Many visitors arrive hoping to see the Northern Lights, but there are many other things to do in Tromsø in winter. Dog sledding, whale watching, snowmobile adventures, fjord tours and cultural experiences all offer different ways to experience Northern Norway during this remarkable season.
The Northern Lights are one of the main reasons travelers visit Tromsø during winter. Located above the Arctic Circle, the region offers favourable conditions for viewing the aurora borealis throughout the darker months of the year.
Many visitors choose guided excursions that combine local expertise with access to locations away from city lights. While sightings can never be guaranteed, winter provides the best opportunity to experience one of nature’s most extraordinary displays.
Best seller
5 - 7 hours
Multi departures
Tromsø
Best choice for first-time Northern Lights hunters. Included: Up to 15 guests • Photos included • Light meal • Tripods • Warm winter suits • Guide
5 - 7 hours
Multi departures
Tromsø
Great experience at a lower price. Included: Comfortable bus • Private camps • Dinner • Hot drinks • Toilets • Guide • Photos
2.5 hours
20:40
Tromsø
See the Aurora from the fjord 2.5-hour boat trip. Included: Spacious viewing areas • Arctic fjord scenery • Comfortable onboard facilities
We offer a private Northern Lights Safari for individuals or groups by minibus for groups from 6-15 and VIP minivan for groups between 1-5.
Husky sledding in Tromsø, Norway, is one of the region’s most iconic winter experiences. Traveling through snowy landscapes behind a team of energetic sled dogs offers a unique way to experience the Arctic environment while learning more about local sledding traditions.
Experiences range from scenic rides through the wilderness to more active adventures where participants can help guide the sled.
7 hours
08:50
Tromsø
Are you travelling to Tromsø between September - November and would like to join a Dog Sledding tour? Try our Autumn verson of it: Dog carting, with our amazing Alaskan huskies.
7 hours
08:45/ 11:45
Tromsø
Join man's best friend on an exciting dog sledding adventure in scenic surroundings! A great option if you were on a late northern light tour the day before.
5 hours
08:30/ 11:30
Tromsø
Enjoy a relaxed morning, and join us for a late departure dog sledding tour at Breivikeidet, with views on the majestic Lyngen Alps.
8,5 hours
08:15
Tromsø
Travelling through the pine tree forest and into the beautiful white mountains, you will experience the true arctic wilderness. Our Alaskan huskys will greet you with excited barking and friendly attitude.
8.5 hours
08:15
Tromsø
Same tour as the Dog sledding in Arctic nature, from Tromsø - Tour 1, but with lunch being served before the dog sledding activity.
Winter is one of the best times of year for whale watching in Tromsø. During the migration season, species such as humpback whales and orcas can often be spotted in the waters of Northern Norway as they follow large herring populations along the coast.
Whale-watching tours offer an opportunity to observe Arctic marine wildlife while enjoying views of fjords, islands, and winter landscapes. These excursions combine nature, photography and sightseeing, making them a popular choice for visitors interested in wildlife experiences.
8 - 9 hours
07:45
Tromsø
Get a unique perspective on the magnificent humpback and killer whales in the Arctic.
4 hours
Tromsø / Skjervøy
Travel by bus between Tromsø and Skjervøy, between November and January.
Winter reveals a different side of Tromsø’s fjords and coastal scenery. Snow-covered peaks, Arctic waters and changing seasonal light create spectacular conditions for sightseeing and photography.
Fjord tours offer a comfortable way to experience the region’s natural beauty while learning about local communities, wildlife and life along the coast. They are suitable for a wide range of visitors and provide an excellent alternative to more physically demanding activities.
2.5 hours
Check online
Tromsø
Join our Tromsø Fjord & History Cruise aboard the old, restored boat Hermes II. This is the perfect sightseeing tour for locals and tourists alike, whether you want to experience Tromsø from the sea or are passionate about old boats.
4.5 hours
13:00
Tromsø
Go on a silent and peaceful cruise around Tromsø fjord aboard a hybrid-electric catamaran. This half-day sightseeing trip is the perfect combo to discover the wildlife, scenery and fishing traditions of the Tromsø region.
3.5 hours
10:40
Tromsø
Cruise in breathtaking scenery around the Arctic island that is home to Tromsø’s bustling city center. This unique 3.5-hour cruise with expert guides also shows off beautiful landscape, including islands, fjords, sheer mountains, and, with luck, marine wildlife.
4.5 hours
08:50
Tromsø
This is a great trip for locals and visiting guests who want to try one of Norway’s beloved sport, or simply join the adventure at sea on board the authentic wooden boat, Hermes II.
Top experience
1 hour
09:50 / 14:20
Tromsø
Join a Tromsø fjord photography and history cruise: enjoy a peaceful cruise in Arctic waters combined with the fascinating history of the unique boat Hermes II. This short yet exciting sightseeing tour offers a great way to discover Tromsø from the sea.
5 hours
18:45
Tromsø
Relax in a hot tub aboard a luxury sailing ship while searching for the northern lights. Enjoy a small-group experience with homemade reindeer stew and warm drinks.
3 hours
19:00/ 19:15
Tromsø
For a more comfortable evening on the water. Included: 3-hour fjord cruise • Dinner with local ingredients • Modern semi-hybrid catamaran • Indoor & outdoor viewing areas • Possibility to see the Northern Lights
3 hours
18:45
Tromsø
Join our Electric Northern Lights Cruise onboard a modern catamaran and try to spot the Northern Lights from the dark and silent fjords of Tromsø.
2.5 hours
20:40
Tromsø
Arctic Tromsø is the perfect place to chase your dream of seeing the magical Northern Lights. And our big, comfortable boat is the perfect viewing platform!
Not all Tromsø winter activities involve high-adrenaline adventures. The city offers a variety of cultural attractions, museums and accessible outdoor experiences that provide a different perspective on life in the Arctic.
Visitors can learn about Sámi culture, join guided city walks, visit exhibitions dedicated to Arctic history or enjoy unique attractions. For those looking to spend time outdoors at a slower pace, Tromsø snowshoeing experiences also provide an opportunity to explore snowy landscapes while learning more about the local environment and winter traditions.
1 hour
Check opening times
Tromsø
If you are curious about how Arctic sea animals, people, fish and plants are living together side by side, Polaria is the perfect place to meet and understand life in the Arctic.
2.5 hours
13:20
Tromsø
Enjoy an introduction to Tromsø, including the Arctic Cathedral, by local Tromsø guides who will share favourite places, stories, secrets, and insider tips to make the best out of Tromsø.
3 hours
09:45
Tromsø
Join us on a wonderful introduction to Tromsø combining history about Polar Bear and Tromsø’s tales with a guided city walk, including admission to Polar Museum and Polaria..
Tromsø is also an excellent starting point for exploring more of Northern Norway during winter. Seasonal transport routes connect the city with destinations such as Rovaniemi, Senja, Narvik, Lyngen, and Skjervøy, making it possible to experience different Arctic landscapes without renting a car.
These routes provide access to coastal communities, mountain regions and neighbouring Arctic destinations across Norway and Finland, helping visitors extend their winter journey beyond Tromsø.
10 hours
20:50
Tromsø/ Rovaniemi
Travel on the first Northern Europe's Nightliner between Tromsø and Rovaniemi, between December and March. Breakfast included.
10.5 hours
Tromsø/ Rovaniemi
Travel by bus during daytime between Tromsø and Rovaniemi, between December and March.
4 hours
Tromsø/ Narvik
Travel between Tromsø and Narvik by bus. Driving daily between 1st of December and 31st of March. We recommend you buy your ticket online.
4 hours
Tromsø / Skjervøy
Travel by bus between Tromsø and Skjervøy, between November and January.
4.5 hours
Tromsø/ Senja
Travel by bus between Tromsø and Senja, between December and March. Toilet stops included.
Tromsø - Senja - Vesterålen - Lofoten
Experience the freedom of eco-friendly bus travel between Tromsø and Lofoten this summer. Our flexible hop-on/ hop-off route lets you explore at your own pace. Witness stunning fjords, mountains, and coastal beauty while immersing yourself in authentic Norwegian culture.
1.5 hours
Tromsø
This is the easiest way for a self-guided day trip to Sommarøy.
Tromsø - Kilpisjärvi - Levi - Rovaniemi
Travel by bus this summer between Tromsø in Norway and Rovaniemi, in Northern Finland and take two destinations out from your bucket list.
3,15 hours
Narvik/ Kiruna
Travel by bus between Kiruna and Narvik, with stops at Abisko, Björkliden, Riksgränsen and Lapporten.
If you are traveling to Tromsø, we recommend you take the Airport Express bus to move between the city center and Tromsø Airport. This big red bus can be found right outside the airport, in the domestic arrival area.
It stops at several points in the city center where you can just walk 1 or 2 minutes to your hotel (the journey takes around 15 minutes), including Moxy Hotel. We have child seats and wheelchair access, and we offer student, child, and senior fares.
Yes. Winter is one of the most popular times to visit Tromsø thanks to its Arctic scenery, seasonal activities and opportunities to experience phenomena such as the Northern Lights and Polar Night. Visitors can combine outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters and cultural attractions, making winter an ideal season to experience Northern Norway.
Based on our guests reviews
Haven't gone yet but chatted with Maria and she was very helpful. Had all my questions answered in less than a minute.
Based on our guests reviews
We chose BestArctic to help us book our excursions while we were in Norway and couldn’t recommend them more! The website is very informational and easy to book. And if you have any questions, the team in the Tromso office was super friendly and helpful!
Based on our guests reviews
The guys are the best tour guides in the world. Their human warmth characterizes them to always be ready to please visitors. They speak several languages extremely well.
Based on our guests reviews
great trip, had a wonderful time. The company was great, gave us an excellent explanation on policy and procedures. My daughter accompanied on the trip and she had a blast.
Based on our guests reviews
Fantastic. The staff couldn't have been more dedicated. Thank you for the wonderful experience.
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Tromsø can feel expensive, especially during the winter season. The good news is you don’t need a luxury package to have an amazing Arctic trip. The tours below are great examples of budget-friendly tours in Tromsø: smart routes, shared transport, short durations, or “all-in” inclusions that give you more for what you pay. Here are […]
Planning a family trip to Tromsø, in Northern Norway and wondering which experiences are worth adding to your itinerary? Tromsø is one of the best destinations in the Arctic for families because it combines wildlife, culture, nature, and soft adventure in a way that works for different ages. From indoor attractions to scenic day trips […]
If you’ve just landed in Tromsø and are wondering how to go from the airport to the city center, the answer is simple: take the Airport Express Tromsø, operated by Best Arctic. This comfortable and reliable Tromsø airport bus offers you the best way to go from the airport to the city center Tromsø, with […]
