Three days in Tromsø Itinerary
What’s the best way to spend 3 days in Tromsø? Hi, I’m Emma, a travel writer for Things to Do in Tromsø. After years of exploring this Arctic wonderland, I’ve discovered the best adventures, most scenic spots, and local gems across every season.
Whether you want to chase the northern lights in winter or soak in the glow of the midnight sun in summer, this three-day itinerary has it all. Along the way, I’ll share my favorite restaurants to indulge in Arctic flavors and the coziest places to stay, ensuring your time in Tromsø is unforgettable. Perfect for travelers looking to fully immerse themselves in this Arctic paradise!
Tip: Click here if you are interested in a shorter stay with our 2 day Itinerary for Tromsø!
Why 3 Days in Tromsø Norway?
A three-day trip to Tromsø could be the perfect way to experience Norway’s unique attractions, culture, and food. Three days can be a lot of time when spread out across various experiences—and vacations are never meant to be idle or boring. Every hour of the three-day trip should be filled with something new and interesting, especially if it’s your first time in Tromsø.
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What to Do?
There are a lot of wonderful, fascinating and weird attractions throughout Tromsø. However, it can be hard choosing to decide what you’d like to see first—especially if this is your first visit. The best thing to do is spread out your activities depending on how long you’ll be staying. A three-day trip is more than enough time to experience several of Tromsø’s greatest with a carefully planned itinerary.
Here are some of the things to include in your Tromsø travel itinerary over three days.
Day 1
Dog sledding
One of the best ways to start a winter day in Tromsø is with a dog sledding adventure. The morning begins with a minibus pickup from the Scandic Ishavshotel—super convenient! I went for the 9 AM slot, though the 11 AM option is perfect if you like to sleep in.
At the kennel, over 130 Alaskan huskies greeted us with wagging tails and boundless energy. After a quick briefing from the friendly, English-speaking guides, we were ready to hit the snowy trails. Each sled had room for two, so we swapped between driving and relaxing as passengers. Gliding through pristine Arctic landscapes, with only the sound of the sled and the dogs, was magical.
When we returned, we spent time thanking the huskies with cuddles and even snapped some photos with them—my lead dog, Speedy, was such a star! By the time we left, I was grinning ear to ear, already wishing I could do it all over again.
Good to know: The whole experiences lasts around 4 hours and the sled-ride is about 90 minutes. We were back in Tromsø city center at 13.30 PM. There are toilets at the kennel.
Arctic Heritage Museum Full Steam
After an action-packed morning with the huskies, unwind with a visit to Full Steam, a cultural and culinary gem in Tromsø. Start with a guided tasting experience, sampling four Arctic cod delicacies like stockfish, cod tongue, and caviar. My favorite was the stockfish—it’s amazing how much flavor and history is packed into this simple dish. The guide’s stories about Tromsø’s cod fishery make every bite even more meaningful. The tour is about 45-minutes so perfect for a fun afternoon.
After the tasting, explore the museum’s fascinating exhibitions. The Sea Sami Exhibition offers insight into their deep connection with the Arctic, while the Northern Light Exhibition showcases stunning aurora photos. It’s the perfect way to combine culture, history, and a preview of tonight’s northern lights adventure.
Pro Tip: The on-site restaurant serves fantastic Arctic-inspired dishes if you’re still hungry, and Full Steam’s central location makes it an easy stop before your evening plans!
Chasing the Northern Lights
After diving into Tromsø’s Arctic heritage, you’ll have some time to relax back at your hotel. Grab a coffee, scroll through the day’s photos, or simply unwind before the evening’s highlight: a northern lights chase!
At 6:00 PM, you’ll board a comfortable bus equipped with Wi-Fi and a toilet (a big plus for a long night outdoors). Your expert guide, a talented photographer, will take you to the best spots outside Tromsø where the skies are clearest. They’ll even snap incredible aurora portraits for you to take home—a perfect memento of this magical experience.
If luck isn’t on your side and the lights don’t appear, don’t worry. You’ll receive a second tour at 50% off, giving you another chance to see the celestial show. With a warm jacket, some snacks, and a sense of adventure, this is sure to be a night you’ll never forget.
Good to know: Dress warmly and bring your excitement—there’s nothing like watching the auroras dance across the Arctic sky!
Day 2
Whale and orca spotting at Skjervøy
The day started early, with an 8:00 AM departure for my Arctic whale-watching tour. Wrapped up in my coziest layers, I headed to the harbor to board a sleek hybrid-electric catamaran. The boat was designed for comfort, with spacious panoramic lounges and heated saloons, which I was grateful for as the cold Arctic air settled in.
As we cruised toward Skjervøy, about 3.5 hours away, the guides began sharing fascinating stories about Tromsø’s history and the marine life we were about to encounter. The views from the fjords were breathtaking—snow-draped peaks reflecting on icy waters—and the excitement on board was contagious.
When we reached the feeding grounds, the crew switched to the silent electric engine, minimizing the disturbance to the whales. And then, there they were: a pod of orcas, their sleek black-and-white bodies gracefully cutting through the waves. Not long after, a massive humpback surfaced nearby, its tail slapping the water before diving down. The guides helped us spot even more species, including fin whales and the occasional sperm whale, all while sharing incredible facts about their behaviors and habitats.
We spent about an hour in the whales’ feeding area, marveling at their beauty. The silence of the electric engine made it feel like we were part of their world, even if just for a little while. I couldn’t stop taking photos and videos to capture the moment, but no picture could fully capture the awe of seeing these creatures in person.
By the time we returned to Tromsø around 5:00 PM, I was tired but elated. The experience was everything I’d hoped for and more—a perfect mix of adventure and wonder.
Midnight concert
After a brief rest at my hotel, I was ready for a more peaceful and reflective end to the day. At 11:00 PM, I walked into Tromsø Cathedral, the cozy yellow church in the heart of the city. The warm wooden interior and soft lighting created an intimate and welcoming atmosphere.
The Midnight Concert was pure magic. The small ensemble of two musicians and a vocalist transported the audience with a mix of Sami joiks, traditional North Norwegian folk songs, and timeless classical pieces. Each note seemed to echo off the walls, filling the space with a rich and emotional soundscape.
One of the highlights was a hauntingly beautiful Sami joik that felt like it connected us to the deep Arctic traditions of the region. The musicians’ passion and skill made every moment feel personal and heartfelt.
Leaving the church after the concert, the crisp night air greeted me. The streets were quiet, and the magic of the music stayed with me as I walked back to my hotel, reflecting on another unforgettable day in Tromsø.
Day 3
Reindeersledding in Tromsø
My reindeer adventure began with a smooth pickup at 9:40 AM from Tromsø’s bus terminal, Tromsø Havn Prostneset. The terminal has two entrances, so I made sure to head to the one near the buses, where guides in blue “Tromsø Arctic Reindeer” jackets were ready to assist. With everything running on time, we departed promptly at 10:00 AM for the short drive to the Sami camp.
Arriving at the snowy camp was like stepping into another world. Over 200 reindeer roamed the pristine Arctic landscape, curious and ready for attention. Feeding them lichen was surprisingly calming, and I could see how deeply connected the Sami people are to their herds. Next came the reindeer sledding—an enchanting ride across the snow that felt like something out of a winter fairy tale.
After the sled ride, we gathered in a warm and inviting lavvu, a traditional Sami tent, to enjoy a steaming bowl of bidos, a reindeer stew that was hearty and delicious. As we ate, our Sami host shared fascinating stories about their way of life, traditions, and the history of their people. Sitting around the fire, listening to these tales, added an unforgettable cultural depth to the experience.
By the time we headed back to Tromsø, I felt like I had truly connected with the spirit of the Arctic. This unique blend of nature, adventure, and cultural immersion was easily one of the most memorable moments of my trip.
Relaxation and Souvenir Shopping
Back in Tromsø, I had some time to unwind and explore the city at my own pace. I strolled through the charming streets, popping into local shops for unique souvenirs. From Sami handicrafts to Arctic-themed artwork and cozy woolen scarves, I found the perfect keepsakes to remember my trip.
I also made sure to grab a coffee and a sweet pastry at one of Tromsø’s cozy cafés—an ideal way to soak in the atmosphere and reflect on my Arctic adventure.
Farewell Dinner at Fiskekompaniet
To wrap up my time in Tromsø, I treated myself to dinner at Fiskekompaniet, one of the city’s top seafood restaurants. Nestled by the harbor, the restaurant offered stunning views of the water and a menu that highlighted the freshest catches of the day.
I started with a plate of fresh Arctic char and followed it with a perfectly cooked piece of cod served with seasonal vegetables and a rich butter sauce. The flavors were exquisite—a true taste of the Arctic.
As I sipped on a glass of wine and watched the last light fade over the harbor, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the past three days. Tromsø had shown me its wild side, its cultural depth, and its warm hospitality. It was a journey I’d never forget, and one I’d recommend to anyone dreaming of an Arctic escape.