Itineraries for Your Trip to Tromso
2 Days in Tromso for First Timers
Gateway to Norway beyond the Arctic Circle, Tromso is a city at the edge of the world. Many visitors, including my younger self, travel long distances to visit this remote place in the hopes of seeing the aurora borealis in its night sky and experiencing Arctic activities like sledding with husky dogs.
The challenge of reaching Tromso, which in my case meant a day lost to snowstorms, means you really need to maximize your first time in Tromso, as there may not be a second. Learn how to spend two days in Tromso and make the experience as memorable and worthwhile as possible with this 2-day Tromso itinerary for first-timers.
Properly suit up when staying out at night looking for auroras, or you’ll spend more time returning to your warm vehicle.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a trip out of town to admire the Arctic landscape and auroras.
Rather than start with Tromso itself, take advantage of the favorable morning light with a tour of the Tromso fjords and mountains of Norway’s far north. Visit scenic viewpoints on islands and along the coast of fjords, including Ersfjordbotn, keeping your eyes peeled for wild reindeer, moose, and even otters. Boat cruises offer a different way to approach the fjords and potentially get closer to their marine residents.
Return to Tromso for a late lunch, and then spend some time learning more about the city and the Arctic region. The Polar Museum offers a comprehensive introduction to the Arctic’s wildlife and Indigenous Sámi culture, while walking tours provide a more interactive experience, with a guide explaining the importance of must-see Tromso attractions, such as the Roald Amundsen Monument and the Arctic Cathedral.
There’s little doubt that seeing the northern lights is right at the top of the best things to do with two days in Tromso for first timers—the experience is often a primary reason people visit. While it’s possible to glimpse the aurora from the streets of Tromso, join a northern lights tour for clearer views of the phenomenon away from light pollution and for help taking photos of it.
With another day in Tromso, you have the opportunity to dive deeper into life in the Arctic, including the traditional culture of the Sámi people. Dog sledding and reindeer sledding tours let you experience the thrill of zipping across snowy landscapes, while also providing an opportunity to learn about other aspects of Sámi culture, including traditional food, camping, and folklore.
After your morning excitement, you may want a more relaxed afternoon. Board the Fjellheisen Cable Car for a gentle ride to Storsteinen’s viewpoint high over the city and the local fjords. Back in town, take it easy with a tour of Tromso’s food scene, whether that’s indulging your sweet tooth on cinnamon buns or exploring its offering of local beers.
Seeing the northern lights is a matter of luck, and there’s no guarantee that conditions will be right on your first night—a second night in Tromso gives you a second chance. If you have already had success, enjoy a quiet evening meal of traditional Norwegian fare, an evening boat cruise, or even a combination of the two with a fishing trip.
