The best months to visit Tromso are Sep – Mar (aurora). -5 to 5°C, polar night Nov–Jan.
Quick facts
When to go
The gateway to the Arctic and the world's best place to witness the northern lights, where the sky dances in green, purple, and pink above frozen fjords.
Sep – Mar (aurora) is the busiest window in Tromso, so accommodation and flights go first. Book ahead. The shoulder weeks either side are usually quieter for the same reason.
Getting Around in Tromso
- Tromso island is compact and walkable: most attractions are within 20 minutes on foot. Public buses cover the wider area for 40 NOK per ride (Troms Fylkestrafikk)
- Rental cars are useful for self-guided aurora hunting and driving to Kvaloya island viewpoints. Budget 500-800 NOK per day. Winter tyres are mandatory October-April and are standard on all rentals
- Taxis are expensive: 200-400 NOK for in-town trips. Uber does not operate in Tromso. Tour operators provide transport for all booked activities
For month-by-month detail, itineraries and costs, see the full Tromso travel guide.
Timezone: CET (UTC+1) (CEST (UTC+2) in summer)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Tromso?
The best months to visit Tromso are Sep – Mar (aurora) (-5 to 5°C, polar night Nov–Jan), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Tromso budget breakdown.
