Learn about Tromsø International Film Festival in Norway

The Tromsø International Film Festival offers a magical experience of watching movies during the polar night. This prestigious event turns Norway’s Arctic capital into a cinematic paradise in January 2025.

January 2, 2025

Filmmakers, critics, and movie lovers worldwide will gather at the festival from January 13-19, 2025. Your visit can include everything from thought-provoking documentaries to groundbreaking feature films while you soak in Tromsø’s winter charm. You’ll also discover the festival’s connection to the city’s rich cultural heritage through specialized walking tours.

Let us help you explore the festival’s offerings, plan your visit, and create unforgettable memories at Norway’s most awaited cultural celebration.

Essential guide to TIFF 2025

Ready to experience the 35th Tromsø International Film Festival? Let’s walk through what you should know about the 2025 edition.

The ticket sales kick off January 6th, 2025 at 8:00 AM. You’ll find amazing films showing at these venues throughout the city:

• Aurora Kino Fokus
• Verdensteatret – Cinemateket
• Tromsø Kulturhus
• Studenthuset Driv
• Winter Cinema at Stortorget

The 2025 festival brings something special – they’ve turned the old Alfheim swimming pool into a unique cinema space with recycled seats.

You’ve got several ways to grab your tickets. The ticket cards with 12 or 22 tickets are perfect since you can share them with friends. Students and anyone under 25 can snag a great deal – three tickets for 300 NOK.

Want the best festival experience? Become a festival friend and you’ll get to buy tickets before everyone else.

This year’s festival focuses on reconstruction and smart resource use. This theme shows up in both the films they’ve picked and how they run the festival, so you’ll enjoy great cinema while supporting environmental consciousness.

What to experience at TIFF

TIFF’s Winter Cinema in Stortorget square is the festival’s crown jewel. This magical outdoor theater lets you watch films under the polar night sky. The best part? Winter Cinema screenings are completely free and available to everyone.

You’ll find an impressive selection of films at multiple venues. The festival shows thought-provoking quality films that appeal to both local and international audiences. One highlight is the world premiere of “Everything Must Go,” a powerful Norwegian family drama.

The 2025 edition highlights include:

• The €5,000 Aurora prize competition with 12 outstanding features
• A special Iran-focused sidebar
• Films from acclaimed directors like Brady Corbet and Mike Leigh

TIFF’s spirit goes beyond just the theaters. Film enthusiasts pack the city’s cafés and restaurants, creating an exciting festival atmosphere throughout Tromsø. Most films play in their original language with English subtitles, which gives viewers an authentic experience.

Planning your TIFF visit

You’ll need to plan your trip to the Tromsø International Film Festival carefully. Hotel rooms get booked quickly, so you should secure your accommodation well ahead of time.

Here are some great places to stay right in the center:

• Clarion Collection Hotel With
• Scandic Ishavshotel
• Radisson Blu Hotel
• Enter Amalie Hotel

Budget-conscious travelers might want to check out Tromsø Lodge & Camping.

Festival venues spread across the city. A stay near Storgata (the main street) puts you close to most screening locations. This area also has plenty of restaurants and shops that make your festival experience more convenient.

Tromsø International Film Festival Walking Tour

The Tromsø International Film Festival Walking Tour is a chance to learn about the city’s cinematic history. Starting at Verdensteatret Cinema and ending at Alfheim Swimming Pool, the tour includes a special screening. Tours cost 350 NOK and run Thursday through Sunday during the festival. You can read more information about it here.

Getting there a day early helps you adjust to the Arctic environment and improves your festival experience. Remember to pack warm clothes since you’ll be there during the polar night.

The Tromsø International Film Festival 2025 is a remarkable celebration of cinema set against Norway’s polar night. TIFF has become a must-visit cultural event thanks to its free Winter Cinema screenings, specialized walking tours, and thoughtfully selected films. The 2025 edition’s emphasis on reconstruction and sustainability gives you another great reason to attend.

Save the dates January 13-19, 2025, and get ready for an unforgettable week of cinema under the polar night sky. Your TIFF memories will stay with you long after the final credits roll.