Family Adventure in Tromsø: Chasing the Northern Lights

First Day Discoveries in Tromsø

Our family adventure in Tromsø has officially begun! After months of planning, the day finally arrived when we touched down in this Arctic city. The excitement was palpable as we stepped off the plane, ready to immerse ourselves in the unique experiences that Tromsø has to offer. Bundled in our warmest winter gear, we set out to explore the city's historical and cultural gems, eager to learn about the region's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

The flight from Toronto, with a layover, was long but Sophie was a real trooper. David kept us entertained with stories and fun facts about Norway, and soon enough, we were pulling up to the Clarion Hotel The Edge. The hotel is modern and inviting, and our room has a fantastic view of the fjord. After quickly settling in, we were ready to start our Tromsø adventure!


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.

Our first stop was Mathallen Tromsø for breakfast. We wanted to fuel up with some local flavors before delving into the day's activities. I opted for the *Sild fra Senja & Egg*, an egg salad with herring, which was surprisingly delicious. David tried the cured salmon, while Sophie enjoyed a simple pastry. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration!


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

With our bellies full, we headed to the Polar Museum. The museum is housed in an old warehouse, painted a distinctive red, which immediately caught our eye. Inside, we embarked on a journey through the history of Arctic exploration, learning about the daring expeditions and the lives of those who braved the harsh polar conditions. Sophie was fascinated by the exhibits on polar bears and seals, while David and I were captivated by the stories of famous explorers like Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen.


Explore the rich history of Arctic exploration at The Polar Museum in Tromsø - a captivating destination for culture and history enthusiasts.

The museum didn't shy away from showcasing the realities of Arctic life, including hunting and trapping, which I found a bit unsettling. However, it was important to understand the historical context and how these practices shaped the region. I did appreciate the museum's efforts to bridge the gap between historical exploration and current global challenges, particularly climate change.

Exploring the Polar Museum was like stepping back in time, connecting us to the brave explorers and resilient communities who have shaped the Arctic region.

After immersing ourselves in Arctic history, we decided to grab a quick lunch at Bardus Bistro. This cozy bistro is known for its modern take on traditional Norwegian cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients. David and I shared the *Fish of the Day*, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful, while Sophie enjoyed a classic burger. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a family lunch.


Experience authentic Norwegian flavors at Bardus Bistro in Tromsø - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.

Next on our itinerary was the Arctic Cathedral. As we approached, its unique architectural design, resembling an iceberg, became even more striking. The cathedral, formally known as Tromsdalen Church, isn't actually a cathedral but a parish church. Designed by Jan Inge Hovig, it was built in 1965 and has become an iconic landmark of Tromsø.


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

Stepping inside, we were immediately struck by the serene atmosphere and the beautiful glass mosaic on the eastern side, created by Victor Sparre. The mosaic, installed in 1972, depicts the Resurrection of Christ and bathes the interior in a stunning array of colors when illuminated. Sophie was mesmerized by the play of light and colors, while David and I appreciated the architectural grandeur and spiritual significance of the space.

Before dinner, we made a stop at Tromsø Gift & Souvenir Shop AS. I was hoping to find a few unique mementos to remind us of our trip. The shop had a wide selection of souvenirs, from traditional handicrafts to locally sourced products. Sophie picked out a cute stuffed arctic fox, while David found a beautifully crafted Sami-inspired bracelet. I was impressed by the shop's commitment to showcasing local artisans and supporting the community.


Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Tromsø Gift & Souvenir Shop AS, your go-to destination for authentic Arctic mementos.

For our first dinner in Tromsø, we chose Emma's Dream Kitchen. This charming restaurant is known for its innovative blend of traditional and contemporary flavors, using local produce and Arctic ingredients. We opted for the tasting menu, which featured a series of exquisite dishes, including fresh fish and braised reindeer leg. The presentation was stunning, and each dish was a culinary masterpiece. Sophie, surprisingly, enjoyed the fish soup. David and I savored every bite, appreciating the creativity and passion that went into each dish.


Experience exquisite local cuisine at Emmas Dream Kitchen in Tromsø—where traditional flavors meet modern innovation.

As we walked back to the hotel, the city was bathed in the soft glow of streetlights, with a dusting of snow adding to the magical atmosphere. The temperature was definitely dropping, a reminder that we were indeed in the Arctic. It's supposed to hover around -3°C (27°F) but can get colder. I am glad I packed my warmest winter jacket!

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Polaria and take the Fjellheisen cable car up to the mountain for panoramic views. I also want to check out the Magic Ice Bar, but I am not sure if Sophie will be allowed inside. It's been an incredible first day, filled with history, culture, and delicious food. Tromsø has already captured our hearts, and we can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow will bring!

I almost forgot, while doing some last minute souvenir shopping I realized I forgot the universal power adapter! Luckily, I found one at a local shop. I am hoping that I can find extra camera batteries tomorrow, just in case!

Oh, and I almost forgot to mention, I read that December is a popular time to visit Tromsø, so it is recommended to book tours in advance. Hopefully, I will be able to find some last minute openings for dog sledding!

While we didn't see any Northern Lights today, I am hoping that we will be able to catch a glimpse of them later in the week!

Despite the lack of daylight, the twilight hours cast a beautiful array of colors across the sky. It truly feels like a magical place. I am so excited to share more of our experiences with you!

There were no local events taking place today, but I am looking forward to seeing what Tromsø has to offer in the coming days!

I can't wait to write about our next day in Tromsø!