Tromsø bridge in winter with the Arctic Cathedral in the background
Vegard Stien

Driving conditions in Tromsø

Road conditions in Northern Norway can be challenging. Distances between towns and settlements can be long, and many roads are narrow and winding, often following fjords and coastal areas. In winter, snow, ice, strong winds and low visibility can make driving particularly demanding.

If you are not experienced with these conditions, we recommend using public transport or choosing organised activities and tours with transport included rather than driving yourself.

For up-to-date information about road conditions, closures and traffic incidents, check the Norwegian Public Roads Administration.

You can also get road and traffic information by phone:

  • From a Norwegian phone: 175
  • When calling from abroad: +47 221 75 175

Emergency assistance

  • Police: 112 for emergencies / 02800 for non-emergency enquiries
  • Ambulance: 113
  • Fire service: 110
  • For dangerous traffic situations such as vehicle breakdowns, objects in the road, flooding or damage to roads and signs, contact the Traffic Control Centre on 175.

 

Driving on winter roads

Driving on Tromsø's winter roads requires extra caution and preparation. Roads can be slippery, while strong winds, snowfall and low visibility can make conditions challenging. Always adapt your speed to the conditions and check weather and traffic reports before setting off.

Read this information from the Norwegian Public Roads Administration carefully before planning to drive in Arctic Norway.

As a driver, you are responsible for ensuring that your vehicle has sufficient road grip throughout the year. In Troms, tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 3 mm from 16 October to 30 April. If conditions require it, the vehicle must also be appropriately equipped for winter driving outside this period.

Always check the weather and road reports before heading out, reduce your speed, keep well to the right and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

See this animation about driving in Northern Norway.

If you are planning to drive yourself and would like to prepare for Arctic road conditions, you can also take the digital “Drive Safe in the Arctic” course. The Arctic Safe Travel course consists of 10 short video modules covering topics such as winter conditions, Norwegian traffic rules and safe driving in Northern Norway.

If you are inexperienced with winter driving, we still recommend considering public transport. The Svipper website and app provide information about buses and other public transport services in Troms.

Alternatively, you can choose an organised activity with transport included, allowing you to experience the region without having to drive yourself in challenging winter conditions.

Quick winter driving tips

  • Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Braking distances can be considerably longer on snow and ice.
  • Keep well to the right, particularly on narrow and snow-covered roads.
  • Adapt your speed to the conditions and slow down before bends, roundabouts and junctions.
  • Pay attention to signs and warnings about ice, avalanche risk, road closures and other hazards.
  • Avoid using cruise control in challenging conditions or on unfamiliar winter roads.
  • Carry warm clothing, food and drink, and consider keeping a blanket and torch in the vehicle on longer journeys.
  • Keep a small shovel in the car in case you become stuck in snow.
  • Avoid stopping in the road. If you need to stop, find a safe place away from the carriageway.
  • Check your mirrors regularly and allow other road users to pass when it is safe to do so.
  • Keep an approved high-visibility vest within easy reach inside the vehicle, and wear it if you have to stop along the road and leave the vehicle.

 

Driving on summer roads

Driving conditions in Tromsø and the surrounding region are generally more predictable in summer than in winter, but it is still important to remain cautious. Roads can be narrow, winding and steep, particularly in coastal areas.

During the summer season, you may share the road with motorhomes, caravans, cyclists and pedestrians. Follow the speed limits, adapt your speed to the conditions and watch for animals on or near the road.

Quick summer driving tips

  • Be particularly cautious when driving through tunnels on hot summer days. Reindeer and sheep may enter tunnels to seek shade and cooler conditions.
  • In Tromsø, the Midnight Sun usually lasts from around 20 May to 22 July, with daylight around the clock. The bright nights can make it tempting to drive for longer than usual, so remember to take breaks and stop if you feel tired.
  • On smaller roads, particularly in spring and early summer, the road surface may be damaged following frost and snowmelt. Reduce your speed and drive carefully.