Tromso, Norway cruise holidays
View CruiseTromsø port guide
With a perhaps surprisingly active cultural scene and exciting nightlife for a city as compact as this, Tromsø is a glittering Norwegian gem, nestled on the western side of the island of Tromsoya. Located roughly 350km north of the Arctic Circle, amongst the crystal blue waters of the two great fjords, Balsfjord and Malangen, Tromsø maintains its ancient Norse roots, tastefully welcoming the modern world without spoiling the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Home to a former whaling station and the world’s northernmost university, Tromsø is an eclectic mix of old and new. Here you’ll find historic traditional wooden houses coexisting amongst striking modern architecture.
Sometimes referred to as “the Paris of the North”, you’ll have a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, excellent restaurants and cosy cafes, as well as explore a region draped in breath-taking natural scenery.
Top landmarks and sights in Tromsø
Arctic Cathedral
One of the city’s most iconic structures is the giant Arctic Cathedral. Built in 1965, the design of this distinctive building was inspired by the dramatic glacial crevasses and auroral curtains of the Arctic. 11 towering triangles have been created to reach upwards and gently touch the blue skies. The cathedral also features an eye-catching stained glass window and houses an impressive organ, which is often used when Northern Lights Concerts are performed inside the acoustic structure.
Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden
Indulge your senses with a trip to Tromsø’s Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden – said to be the world’s most northern botanic garden. Divided into 25 collections, the gardens showcase a variety of unique flora, including plants of the Arctic, Himalayas, and other extreme climates. You’ll also see traditional Norwegian plants and prized specimens such as the giant Tibetan blue poppy.
Museums
Museums are in no short supply whilst exploring Tromsø. Around the city, you’ll find museums dedicated to the Arctic, photography, art, and natural history. At the Polaria aquarium and museum, discover more about this part of the world, with extensive installations and historic hunting vessels to see. You can also get up close and personal with the star attraction – a colony of bearded seals.
The Polar Museum tells the tale of the area’s long history, from its original discovery and settlement to its transformation into a flourishing trading post and whaling station. Exhibits here also illuminate the town’s modern-day evolution into a central Arctic research base.
Things to do in Tromso
Storstein Mountain
Enjoy panoramic views of Tromsø, and the fjord stretching out beyond, with a trip on the Fjellheisen cable car. Rising up 420 metres above sea level, the cable car transports you to the top of Storstein Mountain. Here, along with gazing out over unbeatable views of the Norwegian landscape, you’ll be able to grab a bite to eat at the mountain-top restaurant which serves tasty local cuisine.
Tromsø’s Old City
Back in Tromsø itself, visitors can pay a visit to the historic Skansen house, situated in Tromsø’s Old City. This is the oldest house in Tromsø, dating back to 1739. While the house itself is a quaint building which now plays host to a charming café, the grounds are surrounded by the remnants of 13th century medieval fortifications, painting a vivid picture of the island’s turbulent history.
The Ishavstoget
Embarking on a ride on the Ishavstoget - also known as the Arctic Train, is a great way to see the highlights of Tromsø from the comfort of a delightful trolly train, with each tour lasting around 35 minutes.
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