Urban experiences meets raw Arctic nature
Arctic Race
Arctic Race of Norway 7–10 August: Get Ready for Northern Norway’s Spectacular Cycling Race!
Arctic Race of Norway isn’t just for cycling enthusiasts – it’s four days of speed, excitement and true northern Norwegian celebration. This year all eyes are on the grand finale in the heart of Tromsø, as the world’s elite riders arrive in August for a unique opportunity to experience professional cycling up close, surrounded by raw Arctic landscapes, the midnight sun and a vibrant city atmosphere.
From 7 to 10 August, the Arctic Race of Norway unfolds with four exciting stages. It starts with Borkenes–Harstad, continues with Tennevoll–Sørreisa and Husøy–Målselv, and finishes with a city-centre circuit in Tromsø on 10 August. Everything is set for some of the most varied and scenic routes the race has ever seen – and a finale that will bring the whole city together.
A Race with International Attention
2025 marks the twelfth edition of the Arctic Race of Norway, taking 18 teams on a spectacular journey through Troms County, north of the Arctic Circle. Among them are 10 teams from the 2025 Tour de France – clear proof of the race’s prestige and sporting quality.
First held in 2013, the Arctic Race has grown into one of the biggest sporting events in Northern Norway. Each year features new and varied stages – from Lofoten and Vesterålen to Finnmark, Helgeland and Troms.
This constant variety offers a unique chance to showcase the very best of the region. Millions of TV viewers around the world get to see stunning images of northern Norwegian nature, fjords, mountains and coastal villages. The Arctic Race has become an important platform for promoting Norway internationally as a travel destination, and it’s an event that creates significant and lasting ripple effects for the region.
“We’re genuinely looking forward to this event! The Arctic Race of Norway is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our part of the country. All eyes turn to Northern Norway, and we get to share our landscapes, culture and local character in the best possible way. We hope everyone will join in and help make it a true festival,” says Rebecca Skoog, Marketing Manager at Visit Tromsø-region.
Tromsø Hosting the Grand Finale
On 10 August, the race culminates with a spectacular finale right in Tromsø city centre. In Norway’s Arctic capital, it promises a cycling celebration like no other as the whole city comes together to cheer.
“This is a chance to experience world-class cycling in some of the most beautiful surroundings anywhere, while also exploring everything the Tromsø region has to offer in terms of food, culture, accommodation and activities,” says Skoog. “We really recommend setting aside a little extra time when you travel north. There’s so much to see and do here, and it’s the perfect opportunity to combine the race with everything else this amazing region has to offer,” she adds.
Join in – Create Atmosphere Along the Route!
It’s expected that both locals and visitors will be tempted to experience the Arctic Race of Norway up close. Visit Tromsø-region encourages everyone to help create a fantastic atmosphere: bring friends and family, pack flags and banners, and find a good spot along the route or in Tromsø city centre. The more people who turn out, the better the experience – both for the riders and for everyone watching the broadcasts at home.
Read more about the Arctic Race of Norway here.
All four stages of the Arctic Race of Norway 2025 will take place within Troms County – making this year’s race especially local and accessible for those who live here or are planning to visit.
Here’s an overview of the stages:
- Stage 1 (Thursday 7 August): Borkenes (Kvæfjord) ➝ Harstad, 182 km
- Stage 2 (Friday 8 August): Tennevoll (Lavangen) ➝ Sørreisa, 153 km
- Stage 3 (Saturday 9 August): Husøy (Senja) ➝ Målselv, 182 km
- Stage 4 (Sunday 10 August): Tromsø ➝ Tromsø (circuit), 141 km