Tromso sits well above the Arctic Circle and is among the best places in Europe to see the aurora, from September to March. Dog sledding, whale watching and cozy cafes fill the days; summer brings midnight sun.
Good to know
- Book aurora tours for several nights, as clouds can block the view.
- Dress in thermal layers; tour operators often supply overalls.
- Whale watching peaks in November to January.
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Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
Aquarium and science center with bearded seals and films on Svalbard.
Sami culture, northern lights science and Arctic natural history.
Northernmost brewery in the world and a pub with a long beer list.
Wooden houses and warm cafes for a hot chocolate between tours.
Evening minibus trip into clearer skies, with a guide who watches forecasts and photographs the aurora.
Feed reindeer, hear joik singing and share a meal in a lavvu tent with Sami hosts.
Drive your own team of huskies across snowy plains and spend time with the dogs.
Cable car to a mountain ledge overlooking the city and fjord, great at night too.
Striking triangular church across the bridge, with a glass facade and aurora concerts.
Winter boat trips to spot humpbacks and orcas feeding in the fjords.