January in Tromsø is a magical time. Deep winter wraps the Arctic capital in snow, ice, the polar night slowly loosens its grip, and the city comes alive with unique experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else in the world. From chasing the Northern Lights to celebrating the long-awaited return of the sun, Tromsø in January offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure.
The sun returns – A moment locals celebrate
One of the most special moments of January happens around the 21st, when the sun finally becomes visible again above the horizon line from Tromsø city after weeks of polar night. Even though the days remain short, this first glimpse of sunlight is deeply meaningful for locals. It marks hope, renewal, and the gradual return of brighter days.
To celebrate, Tromsø residents enjoy solboller, a beloved seasonal treat. These are similar to berlin boller (a type of Scandinavian fried donut) and can be filled with vanilla cream, raspberry jam, or enjoyed plain with a generous coating of sugar. Bakeries across the city sell solboller around this time, making it a delicious way for visitors to take part in a cherished local tradition.
Northern Lights safaris: Two ways to chase the Aurora
January is within the Northern Lights season, and Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to witness the aurora borealis. With minimal daylight and good winter conditions, the chances of clear night skies are excellent.
Best Arctic offers two popular Northern Lights experiences: Aurora Safari by Minibus and Aurora Safari Chase by big bus.
The Aurora Safari Chase by big bus is a great option for those who enjoy a more social experience. Traveling in a larger, comfortable bus, guests enjoy expert guiding and warm facilities with toilet availability while chasing the aurora. This option is especially well suited for travelers who like a relaxed, warm, comfortable and structured tour format.
The Aurora Safari Minibus, on the other hand, is ideal for travelers seeking a more flexible, active, adventurous and intimate experience. With smaller group sizes, the minibus drives farther if needed to find clear skies.
Both tours focus on maximizing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights while learning about the science, folklore, life in the Arctic and photography behind this incredible natural phenomenon.
Husky Safaris: Two different Arctic dog Sledding experiences
Dog sledding is one of the most iconic winter activities in Northern Norway, and January offers excellent snow conditions for it. Around Tromsø, two well-known experiences stand out: Husky Safari with Harkin Husky and Tromsø Dog Sledding.
The Husky Safari with Harkin Husky tour offers an intimate and hands-on experience. Visitors get to drive their own sled through beautiful Arctic landscapes of Tamokdalen, changing mid-way with the other passenger sitting, guided by passionate mushers who care deeply for their dogs. A great choice in the heart of the Arctic, about 1.5 hours by bus from Tromsø (transport included), in a wilderness atmosphere.
Tromsø Dog Sledding, on the other hand, is located at Brevikeidet, about 45 minutes by bus from Tromsø (transport included) and offers organized tours with professional setups. Guests can either drive or sit as passengers while mushing through scenic trails. This option is ideal if you are looking for a close-to-town experience.
Both options allow you to meet friendly huskies, learn about mushing culture, and enjoy the silence of the Arctic and its dog sledding culture.
Sami Culture and Reindeer Feeding
No winter visit to Tromsø is complete without learning about the Sami people, the Indigenous inhabitants of Northern Scandinavia. January is a wonderful time to take part in Sami experiences that include reindeer feeding, storytelling, and insights into traditional Sami life.
Meeting reindeer up close, feeding them, and learning how they play a central role in Sami culture offers a deeper understanding of the Arctic beyond adventure tourism. These experiences are calm, meaningful, and suitable for all ages. You can check our Reindeer Feeding and Sami Culture experience (a daytime tour) or our Reindeer Feeding and Sami Culture with a chance of Northern Lights, for an evening tour with chances of seeing the northern lights.
Explore beyond Tromsø with the Arctic Route bus routes
While Tromsø has plenty to offer, January is also the perfect time to explore other Arctic destinations using the Arctic Route bus network. These scenic routes connect Tromsø with places such as Rovaniemi, Narvik, Senja, Lyngen, and Storslett.
For an escape to Rovaniemi (in Northern Finland), travelers can choose the daytime bus route between Tromsø and Rovaniemi with breathtaking winter landscapes or the night travel option: the NEW Aurora Express Nightliner between Tromsø and Rovaniemi. These buses are designed for comfort and sightseeing, making the journey part of the adventure.
The Arctic Route makes it easy to visit destinations beyond Tromsø without renting a car. For example, you can travel back and forth to Polar Park, the world’s northernmost animal park, or combine Tromsø with a stay in Finland or Senja-adjacent regions. It’s a sustainable, stress-free way to see more of the Arctic while enjoying panoramic views, snowy mountains, and coastal scenery along the way.
Are you feeling outdoorsy?
Beyond Tromsø’s most famous winter highlights, January also offers a range of memorable activities for those looking to deepen their Arctic experience. The Lyngen Snowmobile Safari takes you on adventure driving your own snowmobile in the Lyngen Alps, combining adrenaline with spectacular scenery and views over arctic nature. The driver needs a driver’s license.
Those eager to embrace winter like a local can join a guided cross-country ski trip or beginner ski course in Tromsø, learning proper technique of Norway’s national sport while enjoying peaceful snowy landscapes. No prior experience is needed.
For those wanting to experience the Arctic from a coastline perspective, the Fjord Tour from Tromsø is an excellent January activity. This guided excursion by minibus with lunch, photos and guiding included takes you from Tromsø towards Sommarøy, with several stops along the way, offering a quieter and more scenic contrast to the city’s winter adventures.
January’s soft twilight light and pastel winter colors make fjord landscapes especially photogenic, and the knowledgeable guide provides insight into local history, nature, and daily life along the Arctic coast. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, immersive experience that showcases the raw beauty of Northern Norway beyond Tromsø’s city limits.
Finally, the Guided Polar Bear Discovery Walk offers a fascinating cultural experience rather than a wildlife encounter, introducing participants to Tromsø’s historic connection to Arctic expeditions and polar explorers, and explaining why the polar bear became an enduring symbol of the city.
For the ones who prefer some culture during their holiday
For a calmer but equally moving experience, the Midnight Concert in Tromsø Cathedral invites visitors into the city’s iconic wooden church for an intimate late-night performance, where classical and sacred music resonate beautifully in the quiet Arctic night.
Whale season is coming to an end
The second half of January also marks the end of the whale season in Northern Norway. As the herring migrates south, whales such as orcas and humpbacks begin to follow. While sightseeing is still possible early in the month, travelers should be aware that whale watching opportunities decrease toward the end of January.
January in Tromsø is a time of transition, celebration, and unforgettable Arctic experiences. From the first rays of returning sunlight to Northern Lights adventures, cultural encounters, and scenic journeys beyond the city, this winter month offers something truly special for every visitor.
