Tromsø is an incredibly diverse city situated in the far north of Norway. It is stunningly attractive, has good food and an infamous nightlife, all in a bustling, small municipality of 78,000 people.

Cruising into Tromsø is a marvellous experience with strikingly beautiful snow-covered mountains as far as the eye can see, and then the magnificent Tromsø Bridge comes into view. The city centre is located on the island of Tromsøya, but the urban area spreads to the mainland and part of the island of Kvaløya. 

You can also fly into Tromsø International Airport at Langnes on the western shore of Tromsøya. It is the fifth-busiest airport in Norway, handling more than two million passengers every year, and it's conveniently located just five kilometres from the city.

Tromsø is a surprising city with a highly skilled population and a very strong competency profile in numerous industries including the maritime sector, oil and gas exploration, information technology, space and satellites, biotechnology and medicine. It is home to the world's northernmost university, the Arctic University of Norway or UiT. 

UiT's unique position makes it one of the leading universities in the world for research into environmental science and climate change. The university sees it as its mission to protect the Arctic and its invaluable terrain. UiT also offers courses in Indigenous Studies focusing on the culture, language, law and history of the local Sami people and other indigenous peoples around the world.

UiT is one of the most international universities in the world and each faculty has both undergraduate and postgraduate courses available in English. Around 10 per cent of the university's students and some 20 per cent of its staff come from outside of Norway.

Another important institution is the Arctic Council, the leading intergovernmental forum promoting cooperation in the region and addressing issues faced by the governments and indigenous people of the Arctic. Since 2012 the council has been headquartered in Tromsø, although the chair rotates every two years and meetings are held throughout the Arctic region. Norway is the current chair of the council until 2025. Member states of the Council are Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and the United States. 

Tromsø municipality is the largest in northern Norway and it's one of the largest cities north of the Arctic circle anywhere in the world. The city population is around 42,000 with a total population in the municipality of 78,000. The latter figure is forecast to reach 80,700 by 2030 and almost 85,000 by 2050.The population is surprisingly international, with more than 120 nationalities represented.

At a latitude of approximately 69.5 degrees north, Tromsø has a subarctic climate, characterised by long, cold winters and short, warm to cool summers. Snow is common from October to mid-May. However, Tromsø is less cold than most other places at the same latitude due to the warming effect of the Gulf Stream, a relative lack of permafrost and the ice-free Norwegian Sea.

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of northern Norway, Tromsø is a destination that captures the essence of Arctic beauty and adventure. Known as the 'Gateway to the Arctic' and regarded as one of the best places to witness the mesmerising northern lights, Tromsø offers a plethora of attractions that appeal to travellers seeking both natural wonders and cultural experiences. 

Tromsø's vibrant city centre is a hub of activity, its streets lined with colourful buildings, cosy cafés, pubs and bustling markets. Visitors can wander through the city's pedestrian-friendly streets, exploring boutique shops, art galleries, and traditional Norwegian eateries. In the summer months the city centre comes alive with outdoor concerts, festivals and cultural events, offering visitors a taste of Tromsø's lively atmosphere.

Here in no particular order are six of the best attractions you should see if you visit this beguiling city.

Tromsø Bridge 

Spanning 1,036 metres across the Tromsøysundet Strait, the Tromsø Bridge is not just necessary infrastructure but also a scenic landmark. You can drive, cycle and walk across the bridge (for motorists there's also an undersea tunnel providing an alternative crossing to the bridge). In the evening, the bridge's illuminated arches create a stunning spectacle against the Arctic twilight.

There's a dedicated walking path on the south side of the bridge and it takes about 15 minutes to cross. Cyclists can also cross the bridge using a separate bike path on the north side.

The Arctic Cathedral  

The Arctic Cathedral stands out prominently at the end of Tromsø bridge and is clearly visible from the centre of town, set against the background of the 1,238-metre Tromsdalstind peak.

The building's proper name is the Tromsdalen Church, but its eye-catching shape and daring design by architect Jan Inge Hovig earned it the name Arctic Cathedral (Ishavskatedralen) soon after it opened in November 1965. However, despite this nickname it's not really a cathedral at all but a parish church, but it has all the majesty of a cathedral.

The cathedral's roof is formed by 11 aluminium-coated concrete panels on each side, which contribute to its unusual shape. Strip lights have been positioned between the wall panels and when darkness falls the distinctive outline of the church is clearly visible from all parts of Tromsø. 

The main entrance on the western side is surrounded by a large glass façade with a pronounced cross. The eastern wall behind the altar is decorated with one of the largest, most monumental glass mosaics in Europe.

Polaria 

For a deeper understanding of the Arctic environment and its inhabitants, Polar Aquarium and Arctic Experience Centre, commonly known as Polaria, offers an immersive experience. Here, visitors can witness Arctic wildlife up close, including bearded seals, fish and unique flora. The highlight of Polaria is its panoramic cinema, where visitors can watch documentary films capturing the beauty and challenges of life in the Arctic. The Polaria Museum occupies a distinctive futuristic building that resembles ice floes pushed up on land by the Arctic Ocean.

Fjellheisen cable car

For unparalleled views of Tromsø and its surrounding fjords (see title picture), a ride on the Fjellheisen cable car is a must. Ascending to the top of Mount Storsteinen, the cable car affords breathtaking vistas of the city, fjords, and distant snow-capped peaks. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the mountain restaurant or explore the hiking trails that criss-cross the surrounding wilderness.

Tromsø Wilderness Centre

For those seeking authentic Arctic experiences, the Tromsø Wilderness Centre provides opportunities for dog sledding, reindeer encounters and traditional Sami cultural experiences. Visitors can embark on husky-led adventures through snow-covered forests, learn about Sami reindeer herding traditions and even enjoy a traditional meal in a lavvu, which is a Sami tent.

Northern Lights

Undoubtedly the most iconic attraction of Tromsø, the aurora borealis or northern lights paint the night sky with vibrant hues of green, purple, and pink. Tromsø's location within the northern aurora oval makes it one of the best places on Earth to witness this celestial spectacle. Visitors can embark on guided tours into the surrounding wilderness or take the cable car up to Mount Storsteinen, increasing their chances of seeing the lights. Fjellheisen operates until midnight throughout the year and up to 1.00am during the midnight sun period. 

Tromsø's allure lies in its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage and Arctic adventure. The city offers a truly unforgettable experience for travellers seeking adventure and inspiration in the far north of Norway.

Title picture: Olga Fil/Pixabay

Other photos © Judy Barford

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