Tourist attractions in Tromso are split across two main areas. The first is near the cruise terminal, where you'll find the Northern Norway Science Museum, Arctic Alpine Botanical Garden and the Planetarium. The second cluster of attractions is downtown. Here, you'll see historic wooden houses dating back to the 18th century, side by side with examples of modern architecture.
Don't miss the Polar Museum, where you can learn about the brave explorers whose Arctic expeditions put Norway on the map, as well as exhibitions that accurately depict the way of life in Tromso during the centuries. Next to it, the Perspective Museum shows artists' impressions of life in the Arctic. Near the boat terminal is the Troll Museum, which is great for visitors with children.
Other options for travelers with kids include the Polaria Aquarium and the Fjellheisen cable car, which offers great views of the fjords. During the school year, the Polar Museum organizes free Sunday sessions of interactive learning and discovery activities.
If you've arranged for a rental car in Tromso, you can drive across Tromso bridge to the mainland. Here you can visit the observation deck at Tromso View and go further north on a reindeer day or evening tour of the area. Another option for visitors who have rented a car or van in Tromso is driving across the airport bridge to Kvaloya island, where you'll have the freedom to explore Norway's intriguing wilderness.
A one-hour drive from Tromso city is the Malangen peninsula, a perfect location for ski touring. Other popular winter activities are dog sledding, visiting Christmas markets, snowshoeing, whale watching and taking boat trips on the Norwegian fjords under the blue light of the polar night.
Foodies have a world of flavors to explore during a stay in Tromso. In addition to all kinds of international cuisine, downtown restaurants offer the opportunity to try Norwegian dishes, which in Tromso are heavy on fresh fish and seafood. You're likely to find a restaurant that suits your taste in the streets between Stortorget (the city's main square) and the old cathedral. While in town, you can't miss a visit to Magic Ice Bar, where you can enjoy your favorite drink while you admire the ice carvings of local artists.
The main shopping street is Storgata, where you can find anything from Arctic-themed souvenirs to quality outdoor gear. If you prefer a shopping mall experience, your options are Jetka near the airport and Nerdstranda and Torgcentret in the downtown area. As a reminder, stores are closed on Sundays, and that includes shopping malls and supermarkets.
Notable events include the International Film Festival (January), Sami Week and Northern Lights Festival (February), World Cup Ski Week (April), Tromso Jazz Festival (August) and Bukta Festival, a three-day music event in July.
