Family Adventure in Tromsø: Chasing the Northern Lights

A Day of Heights and History

Today was a day of contrasts here in Tromsø, a blend of breathtaking views, historical reflections, and a touch of icy fun. It's amazing how much you can pack into a single day in this Arctic city, especially when you're sharing it with family.



Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Risø mat og kaffebar. The cafe was cozy and inviting, a welcome escape from the January chill. I opted for the lentil and barley soup, while Maximilian enjoyed their local ham and cheese sourdough toast sandwich. Astrid, of course, went straight for a pastry. The coffee was excellent, strong and smooth, just what we needed to kickstart our day. It reminded me of the small coffee shops back in Ísafjörður, where the baristas take such pride in their craft.


Discover fresh flavors at Risø Mat og Kaffebar in Tromsø - your go-to spot for delicious breakfasts and exceptional coffee experiences.

Fueled and ready, we headed towards Fjellheisen, the cable car that promises panoramic views of Tromsø and its surrounding islands. The anticipation was building as we boarded the cable car, Astrid practically bouncing with excitement. As we ascended, the city unfolded beneath us, a tapestry of colorful buildings nestled against the snow-covered landscape. The temperature at the top was noticeably colder, but the view was more than worth it.


Experience the stunning panoramic views of Tromsø from Fjellheisen, your gateway to the Arctic landscape and breathtaking adventures.

From the summit, we could see the entire city, the Tromsø Bridge arching gracefully across the sound, and the majestic mountains in the distance. Astrid was particularly fascinated by the small boats making their way through the icy waters. I tried to explain to her how important the sea is to the people of Tromsø, just as it is to Icelanders. The wind was biting, but we braved it long enough to snap some photos and soak in the stunning vista. I can only imagine how spectacular the Northern Lights must look from up here.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that offer a new perspective, both literally and figuratively.

After descending from Fjellheisen, we sought a bit of warmth and culture at the Tromsø Cathedral. This wooden cathedral, with its Gothic Revival style, stands proudly in the heart of the city. I found myself drawn to its simple yet elegant design. We learned about its history, how it was built in 1861 and is the only Norwegian Protestant cathedral made of wood. Inside, the atmosphere was peaceful and serene. I lit a candle, thinking of my grandmother back in Iceland, a devout woman who always found solace in the quiet beauty of churches. Astrid, though, was more interested in the stained-glass windows, their colors dancing in the soft light.


Explore the stunning Tromsø Cathedral, an architectural gem in the heart of Arctic Norway, blending history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Lunchtime found us at Mathallen Tromsø, a food hall brimming with local delicacies. The hall was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists eager to sample the region's culinary offerings. We opted for some fresh seafood, a taste of the Arctic waters. Maximilian tried the reindeer sausage, a local specialty, while Astrid happily munched on some traditional Norwegian waffles. It was a delightful way to experience the flavors of Northern Norway.


Discover the finest Norwegian cuisine at Mathallen Tromsø, where local flavors meet culinary artistry in a vibrant setting.

In the late afternoon, seeking a bit of novelty, we ventured into the Magic Ice Bar Tromsø. Bundled in warm ponchos and gloves, we stepped into a world of ice sculptures and frosty creations. Astrid was wide-eyed with wonder as she explored the ice bar, marveling at the intricate carvings of polar bears and Viking ships. Even Maximilian and I couldn't help but be impressed by the artistry and skill that went into creating this frozen wonderland. Sipping our drinks from ice glasses, we felt like true Arctic explorers.

Magic Ice Bar Tromsø: Experience a unique blend of art and nightlife in a stunning ice-crafted bar in the heart of Norway.

For dinner, we indulged in a culinary experience at Restaurant Smak AS. The name, meaning taste in Norwegian, perfectly encapsulates what this restaurant offers: a journey through the authentic flavors of Northern Norway. The restaurant's intimate atmosphere and the chef's dedication to local ingredients made it a memorable meal. We opted for the tasting menu, a parade of small, exquisitely prepared dishes that showcased the region's bounty. From the tender cod to the flavorful reindeer, each dish was a revelation. Astrid, surprisingly, was quite adventurous, trying everything with gusto. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Experience exquisite dining at Restaurant Smak in Tromsø, where local flavors meet innovative cuisine in an elegant setting.

Before heading back to our apartment, we took a leisurely stroll through the city center, admiring the Christmas lights that still twinkled in the darkness. The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the crunch of snow beneath our feet. Tromsø at night has a certain magic, a sense of tranquility that is both calming and invigorating.

As I sit here now, reflecting on our day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, for the beauty and wonder of Tromsø, and for the simple joys of travel. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Polaria aquarium and the Arctic Cathedral, continuing our exploration of this fascinating city. I am particularly looking forward to seeing the Arctic Cathedral, a modern architectural marvel that seems to capture the essence of the Arctic landscape. And perhaps, if we are lucky, we will catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, a spectacle that would truly make our trip complete.

Even though I miss my quite life in Hannover, I must say, this adventure is quite something! Maybe I should try to convince Maximilian to move to the Nordics!