The Polar Museum

About us

With its location far to the north, Tromso has served as the gateway to the Arctic for adventurers, hunters and researchers. Our exhibitions tell the stories of explorer Willem Barentsz's very first encounter with a polar bear, daring hot-air balloon expeditions over the polar regions, and a lonely Christmas celebration in a trapper's hut.

In our historic buildings, formerly the Customs premises in Tromso, we present polar history with both national and local roots. Our permanent exhibitions explore sealing, overwintering, polar expeditions and the cultural history of Svalbard. The former boathouse houses temporary exhibitions based on new polar research.

In our museum shop, you'll find unique gifts for yourself and your loved ones.