Tromsø is located in Northern Norway, well above the Arctic Circle, and is one of the country's most popular destinations for Arctic travel. Surrounded by fjords, mountains and islands, the city combines easy access to nature with a vibrant urban atmosphere, making it one of the most popular destinations in Arctic Norway.
Whether you're planning a Northern Lights holiday, a summer adventure under the Midnight Sun or a journey through Northern Norway, understanding where Tromsø is located and how to get there can help you make the most of your trip.
Tromsø has long been known as the Gateway to the Arctic due to its role as a center for Arctic exploration, research and travel. For centuries, the city has served as a starting point for expeditions heading north and remains an important hub for visitors exploring the Arctic today.
Its combination of modern infrastructure, cultural attractions and access to surrounding wilderness makes Tromsø a convenient base for experiencing Arctic landscapes, seasonal phenomena and life in Northern Norway.
Tromsø is located in Troms County in Northern Norway, approximately 350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle. The city centre sits on Tromsøya, an island connected to the mainland by bridges and tunnels, with surrounding areas extending across neighbouring islands and coastal landscapes.
Its location places visitors close to fjords, mountain ranges and Arctic coastlines while still providing the services and accessibility of a small city. This unique setting is one of the reasons Tromsø has become a popular destination for travelers visiting Arctic Norway.
Although Tromsø is located far north in Norway, reaching the city is straightforward thanks to regular air, sea and land connections. Most visitors arrive by plane, while others combine their trip with coastal voyages or overland travel through Northern Norway.
Most visitors arrive via Tromsø Airport, located approximately 5 kilometres from the city centre. The airport offers year-round connections to Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim and other Norwegian cities, as well as seasonal international routes from several European destinations.
Travelers flying from abroad typically connect through Oslo Airport, Norway’s main international hub, before continuing north to Tromsø. Once you arrive, getting to the city centre is straightforward. The Airport Express bus provides a convenient connection between Tromsø Airport and central Tromsø, with stops near major hotels and key locations throughout the city. The journey takes approximately 15–20 minutes, making it one of the easiest ways to begin your visit.
Tromsø is also a popular port of call for coastal voyages, expedition cruises and Arctic cruise itineraries. Arriving by sea offers a different perspective on the region’s landscapes and provides access to Northern Norway’s dramatic coastline.
For those already exploring Northern Norway, Tromsø can be reached by bus and scenic travel routes connecting destinations such as Rovaniemi, Lofoten, Senja, Kiruna, Narvik, Storslett, and the Lyngen region. Traveling overland offers the opportunity to experience some of the area’s most dramatic fjord and mountain landscapes along the way.
Getting around Tromsø is relatively easy, whether you’re staying in the city center or exploring beyond it. Many attractions, museums and restaurants are within walking distance, while local buses provide convenient connections across the city and neighbouring areas.
To move between the city center and the Airport of Tromsø, use the Airport Express, a quick 20 minutes ride, with stops at the main city center hotels.
For travelers looking to discover more of Northern Norway, Tromsø also serves as a transport hub for destinations across Norway, Sweden and Finland. Seasonal Arctic Route bus services connect the city with coastal communities, fjord landscapes and Arctic destinations throughout the region, making it possible to travel without renting a car.
Explore year-round and seasonal bus routes connecting Tromsø with some of the most popular destinations in Northern Norway, Finnish and Swedish Lapland and the wider Arctic region.
Tromsø - Rovaniemi
5 stops
Tromsø - Rovaniemi
5 stops
Tromsø - Rovaniemi - 106
13 stops
Tromsø - Narvik - 915
9 stops
Tromsø - Senja - 940
7 stops
Tromsø - Storslett - 920
8 stops
Tromsø - Skjervøy - 915
7 stops
Tromsø - Lyngen - 917
3 stops
Tromsø - Lofoten - Blue Route
20 stops
Tromsø - Rovaniemi - Yellow Route
11 stops
Narvik - Kiruna (Sweden)
8 stops
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. Tromsø is located well above the Arctic Circle, placing it firmly within the Arctic region. This geographical position is one of the reasons why the city has become internationally known for its Arctic landscapes and seasonal contrasts.
Being above the Arctic Circle means visitors can experience natural phenomena that are not visible in many other parts of the world. Depending on the season, this includes continuous daylight during summer and long twilight periods during the Polar Night. These conditions help shape daily life in Tromsø and contribute to its appeal as a year-round destination.
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.
If you’re planning a winter holiday in the Arctic, combining Rovaniemi, Finland, and Tromsø, Norway is one of the best ways to experience the magic of Lapland while maximizing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Both destinations lie within the Auroral Oval, making them excellent places to hunt the aurora. Each offers a unique […]
If you are wondering where to travel from Tromsø by bus, Arctic Route, part of Best Arctic is one of the easiest and most comfortable ways to explore Northern Norway and the wide Arctic region. Arctic Route is Best Arctic’s dedicated transport brand, created to connect Tromsø with some of the most cherished destinations in […]
Watching the Northern Lights together can be one of the most memorable experiences of a family trip to Northern Norway. Tromsø sits within the aurora oval and offers many ways to experience the Aurora Borealis, whether your family prefers a classic Northern Lights chase, a smaller group, a comfortable boat trip or even a private […]
Nestled above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø surprises visitors with its vibrant culinary scene. From fresh-caught Arctic seafood to authentic Italian pasta, this northern Norwegian city offers an unexpected variety of dining experiences. Whether you want to try traditional Norwegian dishes, seeking the perfect spot for fresh king crab, or looking for international cuisine, Tromsø’s restaurants […]
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 […]
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 […]
Tromsø, nestled above the Arctic Circle in northern Norway, transforms into a winter wonderland at Christmas, into a perfect destination for families seeking unforgettable Arctic experiences. With the winter, crisp polar nights, and the chance to see the magical Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), Tromsø is ideal for family-friendly winter tours, suitable for children, teens, and […]
