Two days in Tromsø Itinerary
What are the best ways to spend 2 days in Tromsø? Hi there, I’m Emma, a travel writer for Things to Do in Tromsø. After years of exploring this Arctic gem, I’ve experienced its incredible adventures, stunning landscapes, and rich culture in every season.
Whether you’re here to chase the northern lights in winter or soak up the midnight sun in summer, I’ll help you create a two-day itinerary packed with the very best Tromsø has to offer. The perfect trip for travelers that want to experience a weekend in Tromsø!
Tip: If you are interested to stay longer, here is our 3-day itinerary for Tromsø!
Day 1
Whale Watching & Evening Stroll in Tromsø City Center
Kicking off your Tromsø adventure with a whale-watching tour is pure magic. From November to late January, orcas and humpback whales gather in the fjords for the herring migration, creating an unforgettable spectacle. The thrill of spotting a massive humpback breaching or seeing an orca pod glide past is something I’ll never forget—it’s like a scene straight out of a nature documentary.
I joined the silence electric catamaran tour (duration of the trips is 8-9 hours), and the silence added to the wonder. At one point, an orca surfaced so close I could hear its blow—it sent chills down my spine! The crew shared fascinating stories about these whales, which made the experience even more special. With a more than 95% success rate, you’re likely to see your favorite marine mammals on this tour!
Dress warmly and bring a camera; you’ll want to capture every incredible moment. Whale watching in Tromsø isn’t just an activity—it’s the kind of Arctic adventure that stays with you forever.
After your day on the water, spend your evening strolling through Tromsø’s cozy city center. Wander down Storgata, the main shopping street, where twinkling lights and snow-lined paths create a magical winter vibe. Visit the Arctic Cathedral, whose iconic architecture is stunning when lit up at night.
Wrap up the evening with a hot drink at a café like Kaffebønna or Riso Mat & Kaffebar.
Day 2
Dog Sledding
If there’s one thing that made me feel like a true Arctic explorer, it was driving my own sled during a husky tour. Yes, you get to steer the sled, guided by a team of energetic huskies eager to race through the pristine Arctic wilderness. The adventure lasts about four hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the snowy landscapes. Don’t worry if you’re new to this—an English-speaking instructor will teach you everything you need to know before heading out.
The journey starts at the front entrance of the Scandic Ishavshotel, where a minibus will take you to the kennel. Meeting the dogs before the ride is an absolute highlight. They’re full of personality—some are playful, others are cuddly, and one might just try to steal your gloves!
Once on the trail, the silence of the Arctic combined with the sound of paws in the snow creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
Chasing the Northern Lights
End your Tromsø adventure with a northern lights tour. There’s something thrilling about bundling up and heading into the Arctic night, knowing the auroras could appear at any moment. Guided tours make this experience even better, as the experts know the best dark-sky locations outside the city.
I’ll never forget my own northern lights experience—the sky erupted in greens and purples, swirling like a celestial dance. Even if the lights don’t make an appearance, you’ll still have a magical evening under the stars. But when they do, it’s pure Arctic magic that will stay with you forever.
