Family Adventure in Tromsø: Chasing the Northern Lights

A Day of Tromsø Wonders

Today was a beautiful blend of art, nature, and local culture, offering a deeper dive into what Tromsø has to offer. From exploring Northern Norwegian Art Museum to enjoying the tranquil beauty of Prestvannet and the lively atmosphere of Ølhallen, it was a day of diverse experiences that painted a vivid picture of this Arctic city.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Bread and wine Tromsø. David and Sophie were particularly excited about trying some traditional Norwegian pastries, and I was eager to fuel up for a day of exploration. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of fresh, local ingredients made it the perfect start to our Tromsø adventure. I always appreciate when a restaurant focuses on local ingredients. It reminds me of growing up in Sarnen where we always ate fresh, local cheeses.


Discover culinary excellence at Bread and Wine Tromsø - where local ingredients meet global flavors in an inviting atmosphere.

Morning Immersion at the Northern Norwegian Art Museum

After breakfast, we headed to the Northern Norwegian Art Museum. As a software engineer with a passion for modern art, I was particularly excited to see how art in the Arctic context is presented. The museum is housed in a beautiful historic building, which added to the overall experience.


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

Inside, the museum offered a unique perspective on art, showcasing both external views of Northern Norway by visiting artists and internal viewpoints from regional artists. Sophie was captivated by the vibrant colors and diverse mediums on display. David, with his architect's eye, appreciated the building's design and how it complemented the art.

We spent a couple of hours wandering through the exhibitions, discussing the different styles and motifs. The museum did a great job of highlighting contemporary Northern and Sami art and crafts. I found myself drawn to pieces that reflected the stark beauty and unique challenges of life in the Arctic. There was also a workshop where visitors could explore their creativity, which Sophie absolutely loved, spending almost an hour drawing and painting.

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

Lunch at Graffi Grill: A Taste of Tromsø

By lunchtime, we were all feeling quite hungry, so we made our way to Graffi Grill Tromsø. This restaurant is known for its delicious grill dishes and lively atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to refuel after our morning at the museum. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a vibrant and energetic vibe.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Graffi Grill Tromsø – where fresh local ingredients meet modern culinary artistry.

David opted for the Graffi Grill Feast, a massive platter of ribs, chicken, and various sides. Sophie, of course, chose the classic hamburger with fries, while I decided to try the pulled pork tacos. The food was hearty and flavorful, exactly what we needed to recharge. The portions were generous, and we left feeling completely satisfied. I have to admit, the tacos were a delightful surprise – the perfect blend of smoky pork, crisp salad, and spicy BBQ sauce. It reminded me of the fusion restaurants that are becoming more popular in Toronto.

Afternoon Tranquility at Prestvannet Lake

After our satisfying lunch, we decided to embrace the natural beauty of Tromsø and visit Prestvannet. This small lake, located at the highest point on Tromsøya Island, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It was once a reservoir but is now a peaceful park and nature reserve.


Explore Prestvannet in Tromsø, a stunning nature preserve with scenic hiking trails, tranquil lakes, and diverse wildlife for an unforgettable Norwegian experience.

As we arrived, the serene landscape was a welcome contrast to the bustling city. The lake was partially frozen, and the surrounding woods were covered in a blanket of snow. It felt like stepping into a winter wonderland. Sophie was thrilled to see ducks and other birds, and we spent some time watching them glide across the water.

We took a leisurely stroll along the path that encircles the lake, enjoying the crisp Arctic air and the stunning views. Prestvannet is known as an excellent location for spotting the Northern Lights, and although it was daytime, I could imagine how magical it must be to witness the Aurora Borealis dancing above the lake. I made a mental note to return later in the week, perhaps with a thermos of hot chocolate, to try and catch the spectacle. I've heard that the lights are particularly vibrant this time of year.

Evening at Ølhallen: Tromsø’s Oldest Pub

As evening approached, we decided to immerse ourselves in Tromsø’s local culture with a visit to Ølhallen. This historic pub, established in 1928, is the oldest in Tromsø and a beloved institution for locals and travelers alike. It’s known for its wide selection of beers from Mack Brewery and other Norwegian breweries.


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

Stepping inside Ølhallen felt like stepping back in time. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with wooden stools, long tables, and a cozy, candle-lit interior. The pub was filled with people of all ages, chatting and laughing over glasses of beer. David, a beer enthusiast, was in his element, eager to sample the local brews. Sophie enjoyed a non-alcoholic drink while we soaked in the lively ambiance.

We learned that Ølhallen has a fascinating history, having been a gathering place for polar explorers, hunters, and locals for nearly a century. It’s a place where you can truly feel the pulse of Tromsø. David tried a couple of different Mack beers, while I opted for the local favorite, Blanding – a mix of dark and light beer. It was the perfect way to end our day, surrounded by good company and the unique atmosphere of this historic pub.

Dinner at Biffhuset Skarven: A Culinary Finale

For dinner, we decided on Biffhuset Skarven. Known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional Norwegian cuisine, it seemed the perfect place to cap off our day. The restaurant is part of Vertshuset Skarven, a well-known establishment by the waterfront.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Biffhuset Skarven in Tromsø – where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.

The ambiance was indeed warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that made us feel right at home. Sophie was excited to try the reindeer steak, a local specialty. David chose the whale steak, another traditional dish, while I went for the grilled fish. The food was delicious, showcasing the fresh, local ingredients that Norway is known for. My grilled fish was perfectly cooked, and the accompanying vegetables were flavorful and fresh. It was a truly satisfying meal, and the perfect way to end our culinary journey for the day.

As we walked back to the Clarion Hotel The Edge, the city lights twinkled around us, and the crisp Arctic air invigorated our senses. Today was a beautiful reminder of why we chose Tromsø for our family adventure. The blend of art, nature, and local culture has already exceeded our expectations, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.


Experience the best of Tromsø with Clarion Hotel The Edge; a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and stunning views in the heart of the city.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden and hopefully catch the Northern Lights with a fjord tour. I'm particularly excited about the Botanic Garden. I have always loved gardening. I'm hoping that the snow hasn't completely covered all of the plants. It promises to be another day filled with unforgettable experiences.

The events calendar shows that B-Lagets Juleshow is taking place at Bryggeriet Scene. Perhaps we'll check that out if we have time!