What You Must Know About Visiting Tromsø in Winter

Whereas I really like dwelling in Tromsø all 12 months, I’ve to confess winter in Tromsø is especially particular. After all the spotlight for most individuals visiting Tromsø in winter is getting an opportunity to see the northern lights, however there are additionally so many different enjoyable winter actions on supply right here. 

Winter is the very best time to go to Tromsø if you wish to go canine sledding, whale watching, reindeer sledding, polar swimming, snowboarding, snowshoeing and a lot extra. However there are additionally some essential issues to know earlier than planning a winter journey to Tromsø. You possibly can learn my full information for issues to do in Tromsø in any season right here, together with the place to eat, the place to exit, and the place to remain in Tromsø. 

How chilly does it get in Tromsø in winter? 

If you happen to’re nervous about visiting the Arctic within the winter, you could be shocked by how gentle the Tromsø winter temperatures might be. Due to the Gulf Stream, temperatures in Tromsø usually sit round 0° C (32° F) within the winter, and barely dip under -10° C (14° F). The coldest month in Tromsø is January, with common temperatures of -3° C (27° F). 

However one factor to bear in mind is that the majority northern lights excursions will take you inland, the place there’s the next likelihood of clear skies, however the place the temperatures might be a lot, a lot colder. So whereas the temperature could be round zero in Tromsø, in the event you drive a pair hours inland temperatures might drop to -25° C (-13° F).

This is likely one of the causes I like to recommend chasing the northern lights with a tour that gives heat snowsuits and boots. However in the event you’ll be chasing the northern lights by yourself, remember to pack very heat clothes, and contemplate bringing a wool blanket or mat to face on exterior within the snow so your toes don’t freeze. 

So long as you pack the appropriate clothes, you ought to be completely comfy right here in winter. I’ve written up a information for what to pack for winter in Norway right here. 

How darkish is Tromsø in winter? 

As Tromsø lies far above the Arctic Circle, town does expertise polar evening within the winter. Because of this from the twenty seventh of November to the fifteenth of January, the solar doesn’t rise in Tromsø. 

However this doesn’t imply that it’s pitch black out all day! The solar nonetheless approaches the horizon, even when it doesn’t really rise above it, which signifies that we nonetheless get a number of hours of gorgeous blue gentle (like twilight) even in December, the darkest month of the 12 months. And in November and January we additionally get attractive pink gentle, because the solar will get even nearer to the horizon. It’s mainly like an prolonged dawn/sundown.

Because of this you’ll nonetheless have a number of hours every day to see town within the gentle, which is nice for snowboarding, exploring Tromsø’s lovely panorama, and different out of doors actions like whale watching, husky sledding, and reindeer experiences. 

Issues to do in Tromsø in winter

Seeing the northern lights in Tromsø

I’ve written extra about learn how to see the northern lights in Tromsø right here, however basically you’ll have the very best probabilities of seeing the northern lights in the event you join a tour that may chase clear skies – typically so far as Finland. The guides on these excursions perceive how the panorama impacts climate patterns they usually’re involved with different guides within the area to allow them to finest discover clear skies. As well as, excursions present heat clothes and infrequently images of you underneath the northern lights. 

This minibus tour is my favourite northern lights tour in Tromsø – that is additionally the tour I despatched my mother and father on to chase the northern lights! Or if you would like a less expensive choice, this all inclusive northern lights chase minibus tour is obtainable by a unique firm and isn’t fairly as lengthy however it’s cheaper. After which the most affordable choice is this 4 hour northern lights minibus tour.

Or in the event you’re in search of one thing a bit completely different, this northern lights crusing tour seems to be actually enjoyable.

And in case your coronary heart is really set on seeing the northern lights, I’ve put collectively a whole e book information masking every little thing you  have to know to plan an epic northern lights journey. You possibly can learn extra and buy the e book right here. 

Whale watching in Tromsø

From roughly November by January, you possibly can see humpback whales and killer whales, or orcas, close to Tromsø. The time they arrive does differ every year, in addition to the place you possibly can see them. This winter they’re off the coast of Skjervøy, which is just a few hours by boat or minivan from Tromsø. There are a number of Tromsø whale safari firms that take you to see the whales, wherever they might be (although after all whale sightings can’t be assured). 

I’ve been on many whale excursions, seeing humpback, sperm, and killer whales. If you happen to’re questioning if whale safaris are moral, relaxation assured that these excursions observe pointers to make sure the wellbeing of the whales. Only some boats are allowed out by a pod at a time, they usually must maintain a set distance from them. 

If you wish to stand up near the whales, then you possibly can take a tour on a RIB, which is a small inflatable boat that may float alongside the whales. If the whales are feeling pleasant they usually strategy the RIB, and if not they’ll maintain their distance.

Driving on the RIB is my favourite approach of seeing the whales, however remember the fact that it might probably get extremely chilly. You’ll be supplied with heavy responsibility floatation fits to maintain heat, however it’s nonetheless a cold expertise, so if you wish to keep heat and toasty I’d go for an everyday boat tour as a substitute.

Do not forget that the solar doesn’t rise in Tromsø from the tip of November till the tip of January, so that you’ll probably be watching the whales within the lovely blue gentle that we get right here throughout the daytime throughout polar evening (like twilight). That is really very best gentle for whale watching, as the colours are attractive. 

If you wish to keep on a heat boat your entire time, this silent whale watching tour on an electrical boat is ideal, and lasts round eight hours (relying on the place the whales are) for optimum whale sighting probabilities. My pal Katie is a marine biologist and simply took this tour by Manawa and beloved it. She shared her expertise on the tour right here. 

And in the event you’re feeling adventurous and need to see the whales up shut, this boat/RIB whale watching tour takes you to the whales on a ship however then you definately change to a RIB whenever you’re close to the whales. This tour is run by Inexperienced Gold of Norway, who’ve a status as essentially the most moral whale tour firm in Tromsø, as they’re very respectful of the whales and cooperate immediately with the whale researchers within the space. 

Canine sledding in Tromsø

I really like husky sledding. I’ve gone on Senja, in Helgeland (twice), in Sweden, and on Svalbard, all of which have been such enjoyable experiences. And don’t fear, the huskies completely like it. These huskies are bred to tug sleds and are a lot happier operating out within the chilly than huskies which are stored as pets in heat climates. 

For finest probabilities of snow I’d do that in January, February, or March, however typically there might be sufficient snow on the bottom in November and December for husky sledding. 

Often you’ll be in pairs for this, with one particular person driving and one seated on the sled, although once I’ve traveled alone I’ve at all times been given a sled for myself. The guides will educate you every little thing you might want to know to drive the sleds – it’s positively a exercise (particularly if it’s important to run uphill within the snow a bit) however not troublesome. I are likely to spend your entire husky tour laughing as a result of it’s a lot enjoyable. 

There are many completely different husky sledding excursions supplied from Tromsø which you’ll find right here, however I like to recommend going with the Tromsø Wilderness Middle. I do know a number of individuals who have adopted retired huskies from the Wilderness Middle they usually supply actually nice care to the canine after they aren’t working.

This husky tour is ideal for inexperienced persons. Or in the event you aren’t desirous about sledding however wish to meet the huskies, together with an opportunity to see the northern lights, you might take this night husky northern lights tour. 

Or you might go all out with this unimaginable in a single day northern lights glamping and canine sledding journey. 

I’ve written extra about canine sledding in Norway right here. 

Reindeer

One of many enjoyable issues about dwelling in Tromsø is that there are a whole lot of reindeer right here! In actual fact once I drive to the neighboring island of Kvaløya I’ll usually see reindeer roaming the streets. 

After all one of the best ways to see some reindeer is to go to a reindeer camp. This reindeer tour takes you simply half-hour from the Tromsø middle to feed reindeer, find out about Sami tradition, and even take a brief reindeer sleigh trip.

However my prime advice could be this reindeer tour, which takes you out to the attractive Lyngen Alps. It’s a couple of 90 minute trip in a minivan, however this is likely one of the most lovely areas exterior of Tromsø. I’ve carried out this tour and it was positively definitely worth the drive out to this Sami camp.

Plus, Camp Tamok is farther inland so that you’re extra more likely to have snow right here. I visited in mid November when there was no snow in Tromsø, however loads of snow right here!  In addition they supply a night reindeer sleigh trip the place you’ll have the prospect to see the northern lights. Learn extra about my expertise reindeer sledding right here. 

Cross-country snowboarding

It’s true that cross-country snowboarding is Norway’s nationwide previous time. It’s extremely in style in Tromsø, and there are some straightforward trails so that you can strive it your self, at the same time as a newbie. 

You possibly can hire cross-country skis at Tromsø Out of doors proper downtown (I imagine leases are 340 kroner for adults), however in the event you’ve by no means been on cross-country skis earlier than you would possibly choose to go along with a information as a substitute. This guided cross-country snowboarding Tromsø tour contains all of the tools, a ski lesson, sizzling drinks, and lunch. 

Alpine snowboarding

If you wish to go downhill snowboarding close to Tromsø, Tromsø Alpinpark is a brief bus trip from town middle and presents tools leases.

Ski touring

The Tromsø area has turn out to be stop well-known for its unimaginable ski touring alternatives. This can be a good spot for inexperienced persons – I went ski touring for the primary time final 12 months and beloved it – in addition to specialists. 

However remember to observe all the protection pointers and avalanche reviews earlier than heading out. Final 12 months we had a number of deaths and critical accidents from skiers caught in avalanches, and locals have struggled with vacationers heading up into the mountains towards security advisories. If doubtful, contact Tromsø Ski Guides and rent a information. 

Snowshoeing

Norwegians are all about skis, however I really suppose snowshoes are actually underrated! I miss climbing a lot right here throughout the winter, however on snowshoes you possibly can nonetheless expertise a little bit of climbing, and I really like the sluggish tempo of snowshoeing – it’s very peaceable. You may also hire snowshoes at Tromsø Out of doors downtown. 

There are additionally a number of completely different snowshoeing excursions on supply in Tromsø, which you’ll discover right here. 

Ice skating

If you happen to come on the proper time, when it’s chilly sufficient for the lakes to freeze however not too snowy, then you definately’ll discover most of Tromsø out iceskating on the weekends. You possibly can hire ice skates downtown and be part of within the enjoyable!

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is extremely in style right here, and it’s definitely a whole lot of enjoyable. If you wish to expertise snowmobiling for your self there are a bunch of snowmobile excursions supplied out of Tromsø right here. 

Fjellheisen

The one factor I inform everybody to do when visiting Tromsø is to take the Fjellheisen cable automobile, which presents nice views of town. Plus a number of climbing trails begin right here, or you might take the cable automobile up after which hike again down. There’s additionally an indoor cafe on the prime with nice views. 

I really first went up right here throughout polar evening when it was completely darkish and I believed it will be actually boring, however the metropolis lights have been lovely. After which in the event you’re fortunate the northern lights would possibly make an look. 

Tromsø sauna

In all probability my second prime advice for everybody visiting Tromsø is to strive considered one of our saunas.

Pust is my favourite sauna in Tromsø. The sauna is in a picket construction floating on the harbor with a lovely view of the Arctic Cathedral, and because it’s proper on the water you possibly can simply run out for just a few dips within the sea (it could sound terrible, however I promise you’ll really feel unimaginable afterwards!). You possibly can guide a time slot at Pust right here. I don’t know if it’s a glitch, however I seen which you could solely guide a drop-in hour in the event you’re on the Norwegian model of the location. 

Or if you would like a fancier sauna expertise, the Vulkana spa boat has a sauna and sizzling tub on board. It’s solely accessible for group bookings so this solo traveler hasn’t tried it, however it seems to be enjoyable! 

A less expensive choice in the event you aren’t touring in a giant group is this fjord cruise with a sauna/jacuzzi on board – it seems to be like solely a few of their boats have the sauna and jacuzzi, so I’d examine with them when reserving to be sure to get the appropriate boat. 

Tromsø fjord cruises

Top-of-the-line issues about Tromsø is the attractive surrounding panorama, and what higher method to expertise it than by boat? There are tons of fjord cruises on supply right here, like this fjord cruise with a sauna/jacuzzi on board, this Arctic crusing safari, or this Northern Lights luxurious catamaran journey (in winter). 

The Arctic Cathedral

Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral was opened in 1965 and might be Tromsø’s most well-known landmark now. It’s really in Tromsdalen on the mainland, so that you’ll must cross over the bridge from downtown Tromsø to go and see it. The view from the bridge is gorgeous, however really I don’t suppose you might want to go all the way in which to the church in the event you don’t need to, except you need to attend one of many many live shows held there. Personally I discover the Arctic Cathedral most spectacular from afar. 

Tromsø museums

I’m not a giant fan of museums, however my mom is and he or she’s visited nearly each museum in Tromsø, and her prime suggestions are Perspektivet, the Polar Museum and the Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum. 

Downtown Tromsø

Certainly one of my favourite issues to do in Tromsø is solely to wander round downtown. There are a number of cute procuring streets with colourful picket buildings, and so many beautiful cafes and eating places to take a look at. 

There are additionally roughly a million memento outlets right here, so if you wish to purchase any Norwegian trinkets, or maybe a Norwegian wool sweater, that is the place to do it. Really in the event you do need some Norwegian wool, there’s a reduction retailer subsequent to the Intersport on Storgata that has tons of closely discounted wool sweaters, socks, hats, mittens, and many others.

Postludium and Edel are two actually beautiful classic outlets which are value testing as properly. 

Tromsøbadet swimming pool middle

Tromsøbadet is a giant indoor swimming pool advanced in Tromsø. It has a number of completely different swimming swimming pools, jacuzzis, a sauna and steam room, and a heated out of doors pool space with lovely views. I used to be a bit skeptical earlier than visiting, however it’s really properly value a go to! This could be a nice wet day exercise or a enjoyable choice in the event you’re touring with youngsters. 

Christmas in Tromsø

I’m going to be completely sincere right here: Tromsø will not be my favourite place to spend Christmas in Norway. It’s positively value visiting for Christmas if you wish to see the northern lights. Tromsø has a number of fairly Christmas decorations, and in the principle sq. there’s a giant Christmas tree and a small Christmas market. We even have a ferris wheel arrange for Christmas and a tiny ice rink. 

Nevertheless in the event you’re in search of the very best Christmas in Norway, I’d suggest going to Røros or Mosjøen as a substitute. These are actually cute Norwegian cities that get a number of snow in December and have the cosiest Norwegian Christmas I do know.