How to get to Sommarøy without a car: summer 2026?

Do you wish to discover Sommarøy this summer, without renting a car? Good news, getting there is easier than you might think. With the summer bus route between Tromsø and Sommarøy, you can sit back and enjoy one of the most scenic coastal roads of Northern Norway. Before you know it, you will arrive at the island of Sommarøy.

Why Sommarøy is worth visiting?

Located just outside Tromsø, Sommarøy is one of Northern Norway’s most beautiful summer destinations. Often referred to as the “Arctic Caribbean”, the island is famous for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and mountain landscapes.

A trip to Sommarøy offers the opportunity to experience a quieter side of the Arctic. This small fishing village offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can slow down, breathe the fresh air and relax.

During summertime, the midnight sun season (20 May – 22 July) adds another dimension to the trip. Longer evenings give you more time to explore the beauty of Sommarøy.

Why choose the bus from Tromsø to Sommarøy?

The summer bus route has been designed to make visiting Sommarøy simple and convenient.

Instead of focusing on driving and parking, you can relax and enjoy the journey while travelling through changing landscapes with fjords, mountains, bridges, and small coastal villages.

Large windows allow you to enjoy the scenery and offer great photo opportunities. We recommend you keep an eye on the surroundings; sightseeing might even be possible along the road to Sommarøy.

With fixed daily departures, planning your summer holiday becomes easy and stress-free. Some visitors say that the drive becomes one of the highlights of the day.

What to know before booking your trip?

The route operates daily from 15 June until 23 August and takes approximately 1.5 hours each way.

With two fixed departures from Tromsø and two return options from Sommarøy, the schedule gives you flexibility whether you are planning a day trip or staying overnight at the hotel.

Here is more information regarding the departures:

• From Tromsø Prostneset Bus Terminal (Platform 3): 08:45 (arrival 10:05) and 11:30 (arrival 13:10)
• From Sommarøy Arctic Hotel: 14:15 (arrival 16:00) and 19:10 (arrival 20:25).

For more details we recommend checking the timetable in advance to find the best option for your plans. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before departure, to allow enough time for boarding and choosing your favorite seat on the bus.

The red bus is marked with Bussring and/or Arctic Route, even if the bus stops are not themselves marked with Arctic Route signs.

For more information you can read here.

We recommend you book your ticket online to guarantee a seat during peak season.

What can you do in Sommarøy during summer?

Many visitors choose to spend their time exploring the coastline, relaxing on the beaches or enjoying a picnic by the sea. If you want to enjoy some local food, Sommarøy Arctic Hotel is the place to choose.

For those looking for a more adventurous trip, Sommarøy offers hiking, fjord tours and kayaking opportunities. Our personal recommendation is the hike to the summit of Håja, the icon mountain island that inspired the design of the Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø, once you reached the top you’re rewarded with a 360 degree views of fjords, sea, and mountains.

Wildlife enthusiasts might also be lucky enough to spot sea eagles, seabirds and other marine life around the island. If you want to maximize your spotting chance you can join a sea eagle safari by boat, with transfer from Tromsø or without transfer.

You can read more about all Sommarøy tours here.

So, who is this route perfect for?

Whether you are visiting Sommarøy for its beaches, hiking trails, wildlife or simply to experience the Midnight Sun by the sea, the summer bus route makes exploring the island easy and comfortable. All you have to do is choose your departure, sit back and enjoy the journey.