Welcome to Tromsø

Tromsø Airport (TOS) offers direct flights from several European cities during the winter season, including London, Manchester, Paris, Bergamo, Geneva, Berlin and many more! For other destinations, most international travellers connect via Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL), which offers frequent flights to Tromsø throughout the day. The flight from Oslo takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. Tromsø Airport (TOS) is just 10–15 minutes from the city centre, and transfers by taxi, bus, or rental car are easy to arrange. Winter driving is possible, but roads can be icy, so extra caution and winter driving experience is required.

The winter season in Tromsø stretches from September to early April, offering a range of Arctic experiences. From late September to November, the landscape transforms with stunning fall colours, as forests and mountains glow in shades of gold, red, and orange, while the Northern Lights start to appear as nights grow longer. December to April is prime winter: snow covers mountains and forests, fjords shimmer with ice, and conditions are ideal for winter activities and aurora spotting. Daylight hours are limited during the polar night, but the long twilight hours and clear skies provide excellent opportunities for photography and outdoor exploration. This period gives visitors the full Arctic experience — colourful landscapes in early winter, snowy scenery, wildlife, and skies alive with the Northern Lights.

Layered clothing is essential: start with thermal base layers, add warm mid-layers, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Sturdy winter boots with good grip are a must, along with warm hats, gloves, scarves, and extra accessories like hand warmers to make long periods outdoors more comfortable. Sunglasses are useful on bright snowy days, and a good camera or smartphone will help you capture Tromsø’s dramatic mountains, fjords, and Northern Lights. Don’t forget thick socks, a neck gaiter, and waterproof pants if you plan to spend extended time exploring the Arctic wilderness.

Tromsø offers a wide range of winter experiences for those looking to explore the Arctic wilderness. You can join guided tours to chase the Northern Lights, watching them dance across dark, clear skies far from city lights. Dog sledding allows you to glide through snow-covered forests and open fjords, while reindeer and Sami experiences give you a chance to meet reindeer and learn about local Arctic traditions. Snowshoeing and winter hiking take you into quiet forests and along fjord viewpoints, giving you the chance to spot wildlife like reindeer and sea eagles. For those who enjoy skiing, Tromsø has excellent cross-country trails. Winter boat tours offer a different perspective, letting you explore dramatic mountains and coastal wildlife along the fjords.

Winter temperatures in Tromsø typically range from around 5°C to -15°C, though colder spells can occasionally bring temperatures down to -20°C or lower. Coastal areas and the city itself tend to be slightly milder than inland valleys. Even when it’s very cold, the air is usually dry, which makes it easier to stay comfortable if you’re properly dressed in layers. Daylight hours are limited during the polar night, but long twilight periods and snowy landscapes reflect light, making the outdoors feel brighter. With the right winter clothing and accessories, Tromsø’s Arctic cold becomes an enjoyable part of the experience rather than a challenge.