How To Enjoy Norway’s Tromsø In The Arctic Summer

From husky-pulled sled rides and Sami camps on the ground to the northern lights dancing overhead, the snow-covered landscape of Tromsø is a true winter wonderland. Yet with daily calls on the Norwegian coastal voyage and almost as many visits from large cruise ships, Tromsø is a popular destination in the Arctic summer too.

On a sunny day it’s hard to believe you’re farther north than almost all of Alaska, with just a flicker of snow on the surrounding mountains the only clue.

Midnight sun in Tromsø

The midnight sun means there is no need to rush in Tromsø. You get great views from the top of the cable car whether you’re there at midday or at midnight, while the extended days offer wonderful opportunities for hiking and experiencing Arctic nature for yourself.

From May 18 to July 25, Tromsø enjoys the midnight sun. During that time, the sun won’t set at all, although the light will get noticeably dimmer downtown as the sun drops below buildings and mountains. Tromsø is at its brightest in the days of mid-June when the summer solstice takes place.

That’s when many outdoor events take place, including the midnight sun marathon. More than 6,000 people of all ages compete in the five races, including a marathon-length race during the evening light.

Heavy cloud cover can of course change the perception of the midnight sun. But if clear skies are forecast, the golden glow across the city as the night never quite arrives will be a memorable moment, and a great chance for keen photographers to experiment.

Of course, you should never look directly at the sun. But to enjoy the feeling of the sun on your face at midnight, head to Tromsø bridge or for the best view, the cable car.

Tromsø cable car

The view from Storsteinen is one of the best easily accessible panoramic views in Northern Norway at any time of the year. Tromsø cable car runs throughout the day and as late as 1am in high season, allowing people who want to enjoy the golden light of Tromsø in the late evening the chance to get down again without a long hike.

If you do prefer hiking, there are several routes up to Storsteinen including the sherpa-built stone staircase that starts from behind the Arctic Cathedral. If that sounds too strenuous, consider taking the cable car up (one-way tickets are cheaper!) and walk down.

Arctic cathedral concerts

Because of some clever marketing, the eye-catching Tromsdalen Church is better known as the Arctic Cathedral.

The striking triangular landmark of 11 aluminium-coated concrete panels on each side of the roof is visible from the city waterfront.

Although still an active parish church, the building is a major tourist attraction and open daily throughout the summer. Organ recital concerts are held daily at 2pm from mid-June to early August, although the popular midnight sun concerts are currently on hold.

An Arctic-themed Botanic Garden

A short walk from the university campus and a short bus ride from downtown Tromsø, the Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden is the northernmost of its kind in the world.

Collecting together a stunning variety of Arctic and Alpine plants from across the northern hemisphere, the rocky gardens are open all day and a pleasant place to experience the late night light. However, you may prefer to visit around midday when it’s possible to enjoy a traditional Norwegian waffle from Hansine Hansen’s cafe.

Beach life, Arctic style

Another popular location to enjoy the long summer days is Telegrafbukta, a beach and recreational area at the southern end of Tromsø island. Although you may not be keen on a cold-water dip, it’s possible to sunbathe, enjoy ball games on the large grassy area, or take a pleasant stroll along the coastal path.

In mid-July, the beach and park host the open-air Bukta music festival, a highlight of the cultural calendar in Northern Norway.

While you’re in the area, stop off at the tall Nobile monument, which commemorates the 1928 disaster involving the Italia airship. Norwegian polar explorer Roald Amundsen was among those who died in the rescue attempt.

Northern lights in the summer

Tromsø in the winter is famous for the northern lights, but you needn’t miss out entirely when visiting in the summer.

A few minutes walk from Telegrafbukta is the Tromsø university museum. Here you’ll be able to experience an exhibition dedicated to the aurora, along with a deep dive into Sami culture. In downtown Tromsø, the associated Polar Museum is a must to discover more about Tromsø’s history as a base for polar exploration.