Tromsø, nestled in the heart of the Arctic Circle, is renowned as one of the best places on Earth to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Whether you’re seeking a quick escape or a more immersive Arctic experience, Tromsø has a Northern Lights adventure waiting for you.
3-Day Tromsø Northern Lights Escape
Use this itinerary if you do not have many days to explore but want to make a most out of your days and see northern lights.
Months we suggest for a shorter trip: October end – February
- Day 1: Arrive in Tromsø and settle into your accommodation. In the evening, embark on a guided Northern Lights chase. Expert guides will take you to prime viewing locations away from the city lights, increasing your chances of witnessing the Aurora. We took this guided tour and cannot describe the beautiful views we saw! We had done a lot of research on this and asked people for their experience. As this is a small group tour it is more customizable and suited to individual’s needs.
Embark on an adventurous Northern Lights chase in Northern Norway aboard a modified Mercedes Benz Vito.
With a professional photographer as a guide and a small group, you’ll get plenty of attention and tips on how to capture the best possible photos of the Aurora Borealis.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Tromoso are included for convenience, as well as all thermal gear to keep warm and a portion of homemade soup.
- Ultra small group of eight people means plenty of attention from the guide Travel in an off-road vehicle that allows access to remote parts of the landscape Pro photographer guide provides tips and tricks
- All thermal gear provided to keep you toasty
- Day 2: Experience the Arctic wilderness with a daytime activity. Choose from options like dog sledding, reindeer sledding, snowshoeing, or visiting the Tromsø Wilderness Centre. In the evening, join another Northern Lights tour for a second chance to see the Aurora.
- Day 3: Before your departure, explore Tromsø’s cultural highlights. Visit the Arctic Cathedral, the Polaria aquarium, or take the cable car up to Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views of the city and surrounding fjords.
5-Day Tromsø Northern Lights Immersion
- Days 1 & 2: Follow the same itinerary as the 3-day trip for your arrival and first two days.
- Day 3: Delve deeper into the Arctic way of life. Take a fjord cruise to admire the stunning scenery and possibly spot wildlife. Consider visiting a Sami camp to learn about their culture and traditions. In the evening, try a unique Northern Lights experience, like a snowmobile safari or a boat cruise under the Aurora.
Enhance your chances of seeing the elusive aurora borealis by embarking on a cruise that takes you far away from the light pollution of the city.
Departing from Tromsø, this small-group catamaran cruise takes you on a magical journey into the surrounding fjords where the skies are clearer and the northern lights are typically brighter.
Get a better chance of seeing the northern lights on the water Includes snacks, drinks, and use of warm suits to keep cozy Small-group cruise (maximum eight): A more personalized experience Wi-Fi onboard: Share your northern lights photos immediately
- Day 4: Enjoy another chance to chase the Northern Lights with a different type of tour, or opt for a relaxing day exploring Tromsø’s museums, shops, and cafes.
- Day 5: Depart Tromsø with a heart full of memories and a camera full of photos of the breathtaking Aurora Borealis.
Must-Do Experiences in Tromsø
- Northern Lights Chase: This is the main reason for your visit, so prioritize a guided Northern Lights tour on at least one or two nights.
- Arctic Wildlife Encounters: Tromsø offers opportunities to see whales, reindeer, and other Arctic animals in their natural habitat.
- Scenic Fjord Cruise: Admire the dramatic landscapes of the Norwegian fjords on a boat tour.
- Sami Cultural Experience: Learn about the indigenous Sami people and their unique culture through a visit to a Sami camp or museum.
- Arctic Cathedral: This iconic landmark is a must-see for its striking architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
- Mount Storsteinen Cable Car: Take a ride up to the top of Mount Storsteinen for breathtaking views of Tromsø and the surrounding area.
Some tried and tested experiences listed below: