Exploring the Arctic Wonders of Tromsø with Olivia

A City Seen From Above

Today was a day of soaring heights and deep dives into Tromsø's culture, a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Olivia and I packed our warmest gear and set out to explore what this Arctic city had to offer, and it certainly didn't disappoint. From panoramic views atop Fjellheisen, to the unique architecture of the Arctic Cathedral, and finally, a taste of local history at Ølhallen, it was a day filled with memorable moments.


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

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sumo Restaurant Vervet. The Asian fusion cuisine was a delightful surprise, especially with the fresh Norwegian ingredients. I opted for a sushi platter, and Olivia enjoyed a warm noodle dish. The restaurant's stylish setting, combined with stunning harbor views, made it a perfect start to our Tromsø adventure. It's amazing how a good meal with a great view can set the tone for an entire day.


Discover exquisite Asian fusion cuisine at Sumo Restaurant Vervet in Tromsø – where tradition meets innovation on your plate.

Fueled up and ready to go, we headed towards Fjellheisen, the cable car that promised panoramic views of Tromsø. The anticipation built as we boarded the cable car, and within minutes, we were ascending towards Storsteinen, 421 meters above sea level. The city below shrunk, and the landscape transformed into a breathtaking vista of fjords, mountains, and islands.

At the summit, the air was crisp and invigorating. Olivia and I took our time to soak in the views, snapping photos and simply enjoying the moment. The summit park offered a tranquil escape, and it was easy to see why this spot is renowned for experiencing the Northern Lights. Though the aurora eluded us today, the daytime scenery was more than enough to captivate our senses. I made a mental note to return here on a clear night during our stay. We warmed up with some coffee at the Fjellstua Café, the summit restaurant, before heading back down.

Sometimes, the best way to understand a place is to see it from above, to gain a new perspective on its geography and its story.

Next on our itinerary was the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural marvel that has become an iconic symbol of Tromsø. As we approached the church, its unique design, resembling an iceberg or the Northern Lights, stood out against the clear blue sky. The Arctic Cathedral, also known as Tromsdalen Church, was built in 1965 and designed by architect Jan Inge Hovig. Its construction marked a period of growth and cultural development for Tromsø.


Discover the Arctic Cathedral: an architectural wonder in Tromsdalen, Norway, blending modern design with stunning natural beauty.

Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the serene atmosphere. The interior is simple yet elegant, with the main focal point being the magnificent glass mosaic window titled The Return of Christ, created by Victor Sparre, which was installed in 1972. The light filtering through the stained glass created a mesmerizing play of colors, adding to the spiritual ambiance. Olivia and I spent some time admiring the architecture and reflecting on the peacefulness of the space. It's fascinating how a building can evoke such a sense of calm and contemplation.

After immersing ourselves in the architectural beauty of the Arctic Cathedral, it was time to experience a different side of Tromsø's culture. We strolled towards Ølhallen, the city's oldest pub, established in 1928. This historic watering hole is known for its wide selection of Mack beers and its traditional atmosphere.


Discover Ølhallen, Tromsø's historic brewpub, where local craft beers and traditional Norwegian cuisine come together in a cozy atmosphere.

As we stepped inside Ølhallen, it felt like stepping back in time. The pub was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the local brews. The air was filled with chatter and laughter, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. I bellied up to the bar and ordered a Blanding, a local favorite consisting of two parts dark Bayer and one part light Pilsner. Olivia opted for a lighter Gullmack Pilsner.

While sipping our beers, we learned about the pub's history. Ølhallen opened in 1928 in the cellar of Macks Bryggeri, the most northerly brewery in the world. It quickly became a gathering place for locals, including hunters and trappers returning from months in the Arctic. One of Ølhallen's most famous patrons was Henry Rudi, the “Polar Bear King,” who reportedly killed over 700 polar bears. Sipping my beer in the same spot where legendary Arctic figures once gathered gave me a tangible connection to Tromsø's past.

For dinner, we had reservations at Fiskekompaniet, a restaurant renowned for its seafood. Eager to experience the local culinary scene, we were excited for this dining experience. The restaurant lived up to its reputation. We started with some fresh oysters and then indulged in a seafood platter featuring local delicacies. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was artful. It was a perfect way to end a day of exploring Tromsø.


Experience the finest seafood dining at Fiskekompaniet in Tromsø—where fresh ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry.

Before heading back to our apartment, we decided to take one last stroll through the city center. The streets were quiet, and the snow-covered buildings sparkled under the streetlights. Tromsø has a unique charm, especially in winter. It's a blend of urban sophistication and Arctic wilderness that captivates the senses.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience Tromsø with Olivia. From the heights of Fjellheisen to the depths of Ølhallen's history, every moment was a treasure. Tomorrow, we're venturing into the wilderness with a trip to Tromsø Lapland and Tromsø Viewpoint. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us in this Arctic wonderland. And perhaps, if the skies are clear, we'll finally catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights.

What a day it was! We are looking forward to exploring Tromsø Lapland and Tromsø Viewpoint tomorrow. It's an adventure we wouldn't want to miss!