Family Adventure in Tromsø: Chasing the Northern Lights

A Day of Arctic Wonders

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the serene beauty of arctic flora with the exhilarating chase of the Northern Lights. Tromsø continues to surprise and enchant us, offering unique experiences that cater to both our intellectual curiosity and our adventurous spirits. It's days like these that make our family trip so memorable, creating stories we'll share for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Good Food Tromsø. David, ever the kebab enthusiast, couldn't resist starting his day with one of their famous kebabs. Sophie, surprisingly, also enjoyed a small portion, while I opted for something a bit lighter – though the aroma of the kebabs was certainly tempting. It’s fascinating how a simple kebab stall can garner such rave reviews, but the quality and flavors truly lived up to the hype.


Experience the best authentic kebabs in Tromsø at Good Food Tromsø, where late-night cravings meet quality flavors.

With our stomachs full and energy levels high, we ventured to the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden. I was particularly excited about this, given my interest in sustainable living and unique ecosystems. The garden is known as the world's northernmost botanic garden, and I was eager to see how plant life thrives in such a challenging environment.


Discover the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden in Tromsø, a serene escape showcasing stunning Arctic and alpine plant species in a breathtaking setting.

The garden was a tranquil oasis, even in the winter. Although many plants were dormant beneath the snow, the stark beauty of the landscape was captivating. We wandered through the themed collections, imagining how vibrant they must be during the short Arctic summer. Sophie was fascinated by the rock formations and the occasional hardy plant bravely peeking through the snow.

The beauty of the Arctic lies not just in its grand displays of light, but in the quiet resilience of life that persists even in the harshest conditions.

After our peaceful garden stroll, we headed to Roast for lunch. This restaurant, located in the Scandic Ishavshotel, offered stunning views of the water. The ambiance was sophisticated yet relaxed, perfect for a family meal. David and I enjoyed some traditional Norwegian dishes, while Sophie happily munched on fish and chips. The food was delicious, and the panoramic views added an extra layer of enjoyment to our dining experience.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Roast in Tromsø - where local flavors meet cozy dining.

Next on our agenda was a bit of shopping at Veita Shopping. I needed to pick up a warmer pair of gloves, as my current ones were proving insufficient against the Arctic chill. The shopping center was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all seeking various goods. We explored a few stores, finding some lovely souvenirs and, of course, my much-needed gloves. Sophie was particularly thrilled with a small stuffed reindeer she picked out.


Explore Veita Shopping in Tromsø for a unique blend of shopping, art galleries, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Arctic.

As evening approached, the real adventure began: our Northern Lights tour with Spiritinthesky.Northern Lights & Fjord tours. I had booked this tour well in advance, knowing how popular they are, and we were all incredibly excited. We met our guide, Nick, who was enthusiastic and knowledgeable. He explained the science behind the Aurora Borealis and what conditions we needed for a good sighting.


Discover the breathtaking Northern Lights and majestic fjords with Spirit in the Sky, your gateway to Tromsø's natural wonders.

We drove away from the city, seeking darker skies. Nick took us to a spot he thought would give us the best chance, constantly monitoring the weather and solar activity. The anticipation was palpable as we waited in the cold, sipping hot chocolate provided by our guide. Sophie, bundled in her warmest gear, kept asking, Are they here yet? Are they here yet?

And then, they appeared! A faint green glow at first, then dancing curtains of light stretching across the sky. It was a breathtaking sight, ethereal and mesmerizing. Sophie gasped, her eyes wide with wonder. Even David and I were speechless, captivated by the sheer beauty of the Aurora. Nick helped us capture some incredible photos, ensuring we had lasting memories of this magical experience.

The tour included a campfire, where we roasted marshmallows and shared stories with the other participants. It was a warm, communal experience, enhanced by the shared awe of the Northern Lights. Despite the late hour and the cold, we were all buzzing with excitement.

For dinner, after we got back, we decided to try Nyt, a restaurant recommended for its cozy atmosphere and local cuisine. Tucked away in a sheltered backyard, it was the perfect spot to unwind after our long day. The food was delicious, with a focus on fresh, regional ingredients. We savored every bite, reminiscing about the incredible sights we had seen.


Experience exceptional dining at Nyt in Tromsø – where innovative cuisine meets vibrant cocktails in a cozy atmosphere.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. From the serene beauty of the Arctic–Alpine Botanic Garden to the exhilarating chase of the Northern Lights, Tromsø has offered us a day of contrasts and wonders. Tomorrow, we’re heading to the Tromsø Ice Domes and the Tromsø Wilderness Centre for some dog sledding, so I need to get some sleep. Good night!

Even though it is December, there are several events happening around Tromsø. There is the lighting of the Christmas tree in Tromsø, which already happened on November 30, 2025, and there are also Christmas markets and New Year's Eve parties to look forward to.