Arctic Adventure: Tromsø on a Budget!

Experience the Arctic wonderland without breaking the bank in Tromsø, Norway.

21 June 2023

Tromsø is a picturesque Norwegian town located above the Arctic Circle, making it a great destination for a budget-friendly winter adventure. Visitors can enjoy free activities such as hiking, ice fishing, and seeing the Northern Lights without breaking the bank. Accommodation options include budget hotels and hostels, and cheap local eats can be found at street food markets and supermarkets.

Day trip plan

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Day

Arctic Adventure on a Budget

  • Start with breakfast at Fløyen Artisan Bakery, famous for its freshly-baked bread and pastries.
  • Take a stroll around the city center and visit the Tromsø Cathedral, one of Norway's only wooden cathedrals.
  • Head to the cable car and take a ride up to the Storsteinen viewpoint, which has stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
  • For lunch, stop by Burgr, a cozy burger joint known for its delicious homemade burgers and affordable prices.
  • In the afternoon, visit the Polar Museum to learn about Tromsø's history as a hub for polar explorers and hunters.
  • End the day with an unforgettable experience: viewing the Northern Lights! Head to a nearby lake or park to increase your chances of seeing the natural phenomenon without paying for a guided tour.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tromsø by plane is to fly into Tromsø Airport (TOS) which has direct flights from major cities in Norway such as Oslo and Bergen, as well as international cities such as London and Helsinki.

Car

Driving to Tromsø is possible but can be challenging due to the long distance and weather conditions in northern Norway. The E6 highway connects to Tromsø, but it is recommended to have a 4-wheel drive vehicle and be prepared for snow and icy conditions.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains to Tromsø due to its location in the far north of Norway. The closest train station is in Fauske, but a bus or car would then be necessary to get to Tromsø.

Boat

Tromsø can be reached by boat from some coastal towns in northern Norway such as Harstad and Svolvær. The Hurtigruten coastal ferry service also stops in Tromsø on its route along the coast of Norway.

Bus

The best way to get to Tromsø by bus is to take a coach from Oslo or Narvik, both of which have direct bus connections to Tromsø. The journey from Oslo takes around 24 hours and from Narvik around 5 hours.

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