Nestled between mountains, fjords and sky, Tromsø is a vibrant, international city surrounded by dramatic nature on all sides. The city centre is lively all year round, with charming streets, friendly locals and a warm atmosphere that makes it perfect for sightseeing – on foot, by bike or by car. To truly experience the city, a guided walking tour is highly recommended. With a local guide, you’ll gain insight, stories and small secrets that bring Tromsø to life.
Compact and full of character, Tromsø’s city centre is made for exploring. Wander through colourful wooden houses, slip into hidden courtyards and pause at a cosy café. Along the way, you’ll pass places where polar explorers, hunters and adventurers once set out across the ice. Join a walk in the footsteps of the polar heroes, uncover Tromsø’s mysterious past on a ghost tour, or take part in a historical city walk connecting old traditions with the city’s vibrant present.
For those who love to combine culture and flavour, there are food tours and beer safaris that offer both knowledge and indulgence. A stop at Mack Ølhallen – the oldest pub in the Nordics and Tromsø’s very own brewery – is a must. Since 1928, it has been a meeting place for fishermen, polar explorers and townsfolk, and remains a living symbol of Tromsø’s social soul and craft culture. Another highlight is Full Steam, where you can experience the story of Arctic cod fishing, northern Norwegian culture and flavours told through taste and storytelling.
Across the city, you’ll find museums, galleries and attractions to suit every interest: the Polar Museum, Perspektivet Museum and the Northern Norway Art Museum are among the classics. Be amazed by the Arctic Cathedral, take in panoramic views from the Cable Car, meet Arctic sea life at Polaria, or let yourself be moved by the Arctic Philharmonic and Hålogaland Teater, offering world-class performances in the heart of the city.
When it’s time for a break, Tromsø tempts you with intimate cafés and charming eateries – perfect for a hearty lunch, or a warm cup of cocoa as you watch the city go about its day.
Tromsø is a city to be lived, not just visited – where the scent of the sea mingles with the sound of gulls and cheerful chatter in the streets, and every street corner has a story to tell.
Tromsø
