Arctic Adventures in Tromsø: A Photographer's Dream

A Day of Discovery in Tromsø

Today was all about immersing myself in Tromsø's diverse offerings. From delving into the Northern Norwegian art scene to wandering through Arctic flora and conquering a local summit, it was a day that showcased the many facets of this Arctic city. Liam and I started our day with a hearty breakfast, eager to explore.

Our first stop was the Northern Norwegian Art Museum. Nestled in the heart of Tromsø, the museum promised a glimpse into the soul of Northern Norway through the eyes of its artists. The building itself, a stately structure dating back to 1917, was interesting, originally designed as a post office and telegraph.


Experience the cultural richness and artistic innovation of Northern Norway at the Northern Norwegian Art Museum in Tromsø.

Inside, we wandered through halls filled with paintings, sculptures, and installations that captured the essence of the region. I was particularly drawn to the works depicting the Sami culture, their traditions, and their deep connection to the land. The museum not only showcased art from Northern Norway but also featured pieces from international artists, providing a unique perspective on the Arctic landscape.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

After the museum, we decided to embrace nature at the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden. This garden, the northernmost of its kind in the world, is a testament to the resilience and beauty of Arctic and alpine plants. Despite Tromsø's location on par with the north coast of Alaska, the climate is surprisingly mild due to the Gulf Stream.


Explore the stunning Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden in Tromsø, a floral paradise showcasing the unique plants of Norway's northern landscapes.

The garden was a riot of colors and textures, with plants from all corners of the northern hemisphere thriving in this unique environment. We strolled along winding paths, discovering rare species and learning about their adaptations to survive in the harsh Arctic conditions. It was fascinating to see plants from the Himalayas, the Andes, and even Svalbard, all coexisting in one place. The lack of gates and the fact that it is open around the clock, all year round, only adds to its charm.

Our final major stop for the day was VardenToppen, a local summit offering panoramic views of Tromsø and its surroundings. The hike started from Stakkevollan, and the trail led us through a mix of terrain, from gentle slopes to steeper inclines. As we ascended, the views became increasingly breathtaking, with the city, the Tromsø Bridge, and the Arctic Cathedral spread out before us.


Experience stunning panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding Arctic landscapes at VardenToppen, a must-see tourist attraction in Norway.

Reaching the summit, we were rewarded with a 360-degree vista that stretched as far as the eye could see. The crisp Arctic air and the stunning scenery made the climb worthwhile. We spent some time soaking in the views, taking photos, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the moment. I could see remnants of concrete structures and old barbed wire from World War II along the trail.

Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped by a Sami Shop in town. I was on the hunt for a special souvenir that would remind me of our time in Tromsø, and I knew that a piece of Sami craftsmanship would be perfect. The shop was filled with beautiful handmade items, from intricately woven textiles to reindeer leather products and traditional knives.


Discover authentic Sami crafts, gifts, and local delicacies at Sami Shop in Tromsø, Norway – a cultural gem for every traveler.

I ended up purchasing a small, hand-carved wooden cup called a Guksi, traditionally used by the Sami people. It was the perfect size for a cup of coffee or tea, and I knew that every time I used it, I would be transported back to Tromsø and our Arctic adventure.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a seafood feast at Arctandria SjømatRestaurant. Located on the second floor of Vertshuset Skarven, the restaurant is known for its fresh, local seafood and cozy atmosphere. We started with a platter of assorted seafood delicacies, including smoked salmon, pickled herring, and king crab. For our main courses, Liam opted for the reindeer steak, while I chose the grilled cod, both of which were cooked to perfection.


Experience authentic Arctic cuisine at Arctandria SjømatRestaurant, where fresh seafood meets stunning views in Tromsø.

To round out our day, we enjoyed breakfast at Hildr Gastro Bar, known for its innovative cuisine and relaxed atmosphere. For lunch, we went to Cous Restaurant AS, a cozy spot with a diverse menu.


Experience modern Norwegian cuisine at Hildr Gastro Bar in Tromsø – where local flavors meet contemporary dining.


Experience the fusion of Italian flavors and hearty steaks at Cous Restaurant AS in Tromsø - where every meal is a celebration.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Tromsø's diverse offerings. From the thought-provoking art at the Northern Norwegian Art Museum to the serene beauty of the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden and the breathtaking views from Varden Toppen, it was a day that truly captured the essence of this Arctic city. And as we prepare for tomorrow's dog sledding adventure at Tromsø Wilderness Center and a visit to Tromsø Lapland, I can't help but feel excited about what lies ahead.

Tomorrow, we are heading out for some dog sledding and to visit Tromsø Lapland. I am looking forward to experiencing the thrill of mushing through the Arctic landscape and learning more about the Sami culture. We plan to have breakfast at Walter & Leonard, grab lunch at Burgr, and have dinner at Restaurant Smak AS. Maybe we will even check out Bastard Bar. I've heard that there may be some local events happening in Tromsø in September, so I'll keep an eye out for those as well.

I'm also hoping to capture some stunning photos of the Northern Lights during our trip, so I'll be sure to keep my camera ready. And of course, I'll be keeping an eye out for any more unique souvenirs to bring back home to Canmore. It’s always nice to bring something back for Liam’s parents in Ireland and my parents back in Denmark.

Good night from Tromsø!