Tromsø

🔥 Hotspots

🥖 Food

 Tromsø has a fascinating blend of local Arctic cuisine and international options. While dining out can be expensive, it’s worth exploring the city’s flavors, especially local specialties like reindeer, cod, and king crab.

  • Fiskekompaniet $$$: This upscale seafood restaurant serves fresh fish and local specialties like whale steak and king crab. It’s a bit pricey but offers one of the best dining experiences in Tromsø.
  • Mathallen Tromsø $$$: Known for high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, Mathallen serves a modern take on Norwegian dishes. Their reindeer and fish dishes are highly recommended.
  • Bardus Bistro $$: A cozy, casual spot where you can try local delicacies like reindeer stew, cod, and lamb. It’s reasonably priced considering the quality and the location.
  • Burgr $$: If you’re craving burgers, Burgr offers a good range of American-style burgers made with Norwegian beef. It’s a great option for a chill night out.
  • Risø Mat & Kaffebar $$: Perfect for brunch or lunch, Risø offers excellent sandwiches, salads, and a good selection of local pastries.
  • Kaffebønna $: A more budget-friendly café for grabbing a quick coffee or snack. It’s a local favorite, with several locations around the city.

☕️ Coffee

  • Hildr Gastro Bar: Famous for its Arctic coffee blends and seasonal menu. They serve some of the best coffee in Tromsø and offer a relaxing atmosphere to warm up in winter.
  • Smørtorget Café: Small, intimate, and offering great coffee. The interior feels like a cozy art studio, making it a perfect place to unwind.
  • Prostneset Cafe: Located near the harbor, it’s a great spot to sit and enjoy a coffee while taking in views of the fjord.

🍾 Going out

Though Tromsø is a small city, it has a lively nightlife scene, particularly thanks to its student population. The long Arctic nights are perfect for discovering unique bars and clubs.

  • Ølhallen: The oldest pub in Tromsø, famous for its local beer and cozy ambiance. Great for trying Arctic craft brews like Mack beers, which are brewed in Tromsø itself.
  • Driv: The student union’s bar and club, Driv is an institution in Tromsø. It hosts live concerts, parties, and cultural events. It’s also one of the most affordable places to grab a drink.
  • Bastard Bar: If you’re into rock and live music, this underground bar is where you’ll find Tromsø’s alternative scene.
  • Verdensteatret Bar: A quirky bar located in Tromsø’s oldest cinema. It offers a laid-back vibe and an excellent selection of beers and cocktails.
  • Skybar at the Scandic Ishavshotel: For something more upscale, the Skybar offers stunning views over the Tromsø harbor and the Arctic Cathedral. It’s a bit pricier but worth it for the experience. 

⛰ Activities

Tromsø is known for its incredible outdoor activities and natural beauty, especially during the winter months. While Tromsø can be expensive, many of its best attractions are free or low-cost, especially if you enjoy hiking and nature.

  • Northern Lights: Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, especially from September to March. You can book an organized tour or simply try your luck on a clear night from spots like Prestvannet or Telegrafbukta.
  • Tromsø Cable Car (Fjellheisen): Take the cable car to the top of Storsteinen for a breathtaking view of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords. In winter, it’s a perfect spot for watching the Northern Lights.
  • Arctic Cathedral: A stunning piece of modern architecture that stands out in the Tromsø skyline. It’s worth visiting, especially for the midnight concerts during the summer.
  • Tromsø Museum: Learn more about the local culture, the Sami people, and the natural history of Northern Norway.
  • Polaria: A small but fascinating aquarium and science center focusing on the Arctic ecosystem. Don’t miss the bearded seal tank and the Northern Lights film.
  • Tromsø Ice Domes: From December to March, you can visit these spectacular ice hotels in the Lyngen Alps, a short drive from Tromsø. Even if you don’t stay there, you can visit for a guided tour.
  • Dog Sledding & Reindeer Sledding: An essential Arctic experience. Numerous operators offer tours where you can drive your own sled or ride with a musher.
  • Skiing: If you visit in winter, consider cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. The Tromsø Ski Association rents equipment, and the Tromsø Alpinsenter offers downhill skiing nearby.
  • Midnight Sun Marathon: For summer visitors, take part in or watch this unique marathon that takes place under the midnight sun.

⛰ Hikes

Tromsø offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, and its nearby mountains are perfect for hiking year-round, though winter hikes require proper gear and experience.

  • Tromsdalstinden: The most famous hike in Tromsø, this 1,238-meter mountain offers stunning views of the city and fjords. It’s challenging but rewarding, with most people hiking in the summer.
  • Fløya: An easier alternative to Tromsdalstinden, Fløya can be accessed by taking the Fjellheisen cable car. From there, it’s about a 30-minute hike to the top.
  • Kvaløya: If you’re a seasoned hiker, explore the island of Kvaløya. Its peaks, like Store Blåmann and Orvasstinden, offer incredible views of the surrounding Arctic wilderness.
  • Brosmetinden: A relatively easy hike with stunning views of the fjords and the open sea. It’s a great option for a day trip from Tromsø.

 

💶 Cost of living

Rent:

  • Private accommodation: Renting an apartment in Tromsø can be pricey, with one-bedroom apartments costing between 1200-1800 EUR per month.
  • Student accommodation: For those attending UiT The Arctic University of Norway, student housing is more affordable, around 4500-5500 NOK per month, and is located conveniently near campus or in the city center.

Groceries: Groceries in Tromsø are similarly priced to other parts of Norway. Stick to stores like Kiwi, REMA 1000, and Europris for the best deals. Protein products and fish are cheaper than in most European countries, but fresh produce can be expensive, especially in winter.

Transport:

  • Tromsø City Bus: The local buses are efficient, and students can get discounted monthly passes for around 500 NOK. The bus network connects most parts of Tromsø with the city center.

Airport Shuttle: A direct bus to the Tromsø Airport costs about 100-120 NOK, and the ride takes about 15-20 minutes.