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Troms
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Explore Troms for Arctic fjords, Sámi culture, Senja landscapes, Tromsø city life and winter aurora beneath the midnight sun.

Troms occupies a broad sweep of northern Norway between the dramatic coast of Nordland and the Finnmark border. Its landscape is defined by deep fjords, island chains, forested valleys and sharp mountain ranges, with the Lyngen Alps providing some of the most recognisable scenery. Tromsø, the county’s principal city, sits on an island between the mainland and Kvaløya and serves as a cultural, educational and transport centre for the wider Arctic region. Harstad, farther south on Hinnøya, has a different character, shaped by maritime trade, military history and the long-established communities of the Vågsfjord area.
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The coast is the starting point for many journeys through Troms. Senja combines fishing villages, exposed headlands and mountain-fringed bays, while Kvaløya and Ringvassøya offer accessible landscapes close to Tromsø. Inland, the valleys around Målselv and Bardu are marked by birch woodland, rivers and open upland terrain. The region’s geography makes distances feel larger than they appear on a map: ferries, tunnels and winding coastal roads connect settlements, but weather and seasonal transport changes can influence an itinerary.
Troms has a strong Sámi presence and a long history of interaction between Sámi communities, Norwegian settlers and seafaring populations. Sámi cultural expression remains visible through language, handicrafts, food traditions and contemporary cultural institutions, although visitors should approach it as a living culture rather than a performance designed solely for tourism. Coastal communities also preserve connections to fishing, small-scale farming and boatbuilding, while Tromsø has developed a lively arts, research and festival scene.
Winter brings a good chance of seeing the aurora borealis, particularly away from urban lights, but Troms is much more than a northern-lights destination. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding and ski touring are important seasonal activities, while summer offers hiking, sea kayaking, cycling and long days beneath the midnight sun. Senja’s marked viewpoints and Tromsø’s surrounding islands suit visitors seeking shorter outdoor excursions, whereas the Lyngen Alps demand greater mountain experience and careful planning.
Food reflects the region’s climate and maritime setting. Arctic char, cod, halibut, reindeer and lamb appear alongside berries, mushrooms and locally made preserves, with restaurants in Tromsø and Harstad combining northern ingredients with modern technique. Historic churches, coastal museums and archaeological sites add depth to the scenery. The result is a region best understood through contrasts: urban Arctic life in Tromsø, seafaring heritage around Harstad, Sámi and farming communities inland, and remote island landscapes where weather still shapes everyday travel.

When is the best time to visit Troms?

Best: June–August · 13–15°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January-275
February-260
March060
April450
May950
June (best)1360
July (best)1575
August (best)1585
September1190
October7100
November190
December-280

Getting to and around Troms

How to get there

Tromsø Airport, Langnes, is the principal air gateway and lies within Tromsø, with domestic connections providing access from Oslo and other Norwegian cities; international services vary by season. Harstad/Narvik Airport, Evenes, is outside Troms in neighbouring Nordland but is commonly used for southern Troms and Harstad. Bardufoss Airport serves the inland area, although its route network is more limited. The railway does not reach Troms: the nearest main railway access is at Narvik, outside the county. Long-distance buses, coastal shipping and the road network complete the main approaches.

Transportation

Tromsø and Harstad have local buses, while regional buses connect larger settlements; services become less frequent in rural districts. A car is useful for Senja, the Lyngen area, inland valleys and dispersed trailheads, but winter driving requires experience, suitable tyres and flexibility. Ferries and express boats remain important for island and coastal journeys, and their seasonal or weather-related changes should be checked before departure. Walking and cycling work well in towns and selected scenic areas, but distances between villages and attractions can be substantial.

Top city travel guides in Troms

The cities of Troms, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Destinations in Troms

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Best attractions in Troms

Troms offers a varied combination of Arctic nature, cultural institutions and historic sites. Tromsø provides the county’s densest concentration of museums, galleries and science-focused attractions, including the Polar Museum and the University Museum, while the Arctic Cathedral is an important modern architectural sight. Around the city, Kvaløya, Sommarøy and other nearby islands provide opportunities for hiking, kayaking and winter aurora excursions. Senja is known for coastal roads, marked viewpoints, fishing settlements and mountain-fringed bays, with outdoor activities ranging from gentle walks to demanding hikes. Harstad and the Trondenes peninsula add medieval, military and maritime history, including Trondenes Church and nearby heritage collections. Inland Troms has river valleys, forests and open uplands suited to walking, cycling, fishing and winter sports, while the Lyngen Alps attract experienced skiers, climbers and hikers. Wildlife watching, boat trips and visits to local food producers are possible in several parts of the county, but the most rewarding experiences depend on weather, daylight and responsible access to sensitive environments.

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Best landmarks in Troms

Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral, formally Tromsdalen Church, is one of the county’s most recognisable buildings, its pointed form and large glass mosaic reflecting the region’s modern Arctic identity. The Tromsø Bridge, linking the city island with the mainland, is both a practical transport structure and a defining element of the urban skyline. In Harstad, the medieval stone church at Trondenes is among the most significant historic buildings in northern Norway, standing in a landscape shaped by medieval trade, farming and maritime routes. Senja’s Segla mountain above Mefjordvær is a striking natural landmark, while the island’s jagged coastline and viewpoints express the meeting of open sea and steep terrain. The Lyngen Alps form another major geographical landmark, with glaciated peaks rising sharply between fjords. Inland, Målselvfossen is a notable waterfall and river landmark. These places are visually powerful but not interchangeable: some are accessible cultural monuments, while others require proper outdoor planning and respect for changing Arctic conditions.

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Explore Troms on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Troms

Troms’s food culture draws on the sea, mountain pastures, forest and tundra. Cod, halibut, Arctic char, prawns and other seafood feature prominently, while reindeer and locally sourced lamb appear in traditional and contemporary dishes. Berries such as cloudberries and bilberries, along with mushrooms and herbs, contribute seasonal flavours, and dried or preserved fish reflects the practical history of northern households. Tromsø has the broadest choice of restaurants, from cafés and bakeries to modern kitchens focused on northern ingredients; Harstad and the larger coastal settlements also offer places to eat with strong maritime connections. Rural inns, farm shops and small cafés provide a more local-scale experience, though opening patterns can be seasonal. Food markets and independent producers are useful places to look for cheeses, smoked fish, preserves and baked goods. Pairing meals with Norwegian beer, cider or aquavit is common, but non-alcoholic drinks are equally well established.

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Best bars in Troms

Evening life in Troms is concentrated in Tromsø, where a sizeable student and research community supports pubs, cafés, cocktail bars, live music, cultural venues and a modest club scene. The city’s nightlife ranges from informal places serving local beer to restaurants and bars that remain active later in the evening, especially at weekends and during festival periods. Harstad has a smaller but established selection of pubs, restaurants and cultural venues, while other coastal towns generally offer a quieter evening based around local bars, cafés and community events. In rural districts, a traditional pub, hotel bar or seasonal gathering is more typical than a nightclub. Winter visitors should remember that aurora excursions often begin late or involve early starts, and summer daylight can make the concept of evening feel indistinct. Drinking is not necessary to participate in Troms’s social life, and cultural performances, food and outdoor activities remain important alternatives.

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Best nightclubs in Troms

Evening life in Troms is concentrated in Tromsø, where a sizeable student and research community supports pubs, cafés, cocktail bars, live music, cultural venues and a modest club scene. The city’s nightlife ranges from informal places serving local beer to restaurants and bars that remain active later in the evening, especially at weekends and during festival periods. Harstad has a smaller but established selection of pubs, restaurants and cultural venues, while other coastal towns generally offer a quieter evening based around local bars, cafés and community events. In rural districts, a traditional pub, hotel bar or seasonal gathering is more typical than a nightclub. Winter visitors should remember that aurora excursions often begin late or involve early starts, and summer daylight can make the concept of evening feel indistinct. Drinking is not necessary to participate in Troms’s social life, and cultural performances, food and outdoor activities remain important alternatives.

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Best shops in Troms

Shopping in Troms is centred on the high streets and shopping areas of Tromsø and Harstad, where visitors find outdoor equipment, books, design goods, food shops and independent retailers alongside national chains. Tromsø is the best place to browse museums’ cultural shops, contemporary crafts and products connected with northern life, while Harstad serves as a practical retail centre for southern Troms. In smaller coastal and inland communities, shopping is more limited but may include farm shops, galleries, craft studios and seasonal food sales. Useful regional purchases include locally made woollen goods, knitted clothing, knives, ceramics, jewellery and Sámi-inspired or Sámi-made handicrafts; buyers should check provenance and support authentic makers rather than treating Sámi symbols as generic souvenirs. Smoked fish, dried fish, preserves, chocolate and berry products travel well, subject to customs rules for the visitor’s destination. Markets and opening arrangements vary by town and season, so rural shopping usually requires more planning than a visit to Tromsø’s established retail areas.

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Troms essentials

Currency and Payment
Troms uses Norway’s national currency, the Norwegian krone (NOK). Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in Tromsø, Harstad, accommodation, restaurants, petrol stations and most visitor services. Carry a small amount of cash for occasional rural purchases, unattended facilities or situations involving weak connectivity, although cash use is generally limited. Norway is not part of the euro currency area, and card issuers may apply their own foreign-exchange fees.
Safety
Troms is generally well equipped for visitors, but its terrain and climate require preparation. Coastal wind, sudden rain, snow, ice and low visibility can affect roads and trails, even in periods of relatively mild weather. Check mountain and road conditions before setting out, tell someone about longer hikes and do not approach unstable edges or unfamiliar avalanche terrain. In winter, darkness and icy surfaces are significant considerations; in summer, the midnight sun can make fatigue less obvious. Follow local guidance around wildlife, boating and changing sea conditions.
Emergency Situations
In Norway, call 112 for police, 110 for fire and rescue, and 113 for urgent medical assistance. These are national emergency numbers rather than systems unique to Troms. Give your precise location, especially on a trail, island or boat, and describe nearby landmarks or map coordinates if possible. For outdoor incidents, rescuers may need weather and access information before reaching you. Downloading maps in advance and keeping a charged phone are sensible precautions, but do not rely on mobile coverage in remote valleys or mountains.
Do's and Don'ts
Respect trail signs, private property and seasonal restrictions, and leave no trace in fragile coastal and mountain environments. Do not assume that all land is available for camping or that a marked route is easy in poor weather. Keep noise low near homes and wildlife, and ask before photographing people or Sámi cultural activities. In restaurants and cafés, tipping is discretionary rather than an obligation, while punctuality and queueing are generally appreciated. At churches, museums and memorials, follow requests about dress, photography and quiet behaviour.
Local Tips
Treat Troms as a collection of areas rather than a single compact destination: Tromsø works well for urban culture, Senja for coastal scenery, Harstad and Trondenes for history, and the Lyngen and inland districts for mountain landscapes. Keep plans adaptable around ferries and weather, particularly outside the main towns. In summer, use blackout curtains or an eye mask if the midnight sun affects sleep. In winter, prioritise warm layers, traction for icy pavements and accommodation with practical access to transport or organised outdoor activities.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHei[Hay]
GoodbyeHa det[Hah deh]
YesJa[Yah]
NoNei[Nay]
Please/You're welcomeVær så snill/Ingen årsak[Vair so snill/In-yen or-sahk]
Thank youTakk[Tahk]
Excuse me/SorryUnnskyld[Oon-shild]
How are you?Hvordan har du det?[Vor-dahn har du deh]
Fine. And you?Bra. Og du?[Brah. Oh du?]
Do you speak English?Snakker du engelsk?[Snah-kker du eng-gelsk?]
I don't understandJeg forstår ikke[Yay for-stor ee-keh]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gjerne se menyen, vær så snill[Yay vil yair-neh seh meh-nyeen, vair so snill]
I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kjøtt[Yay spee-ser ee-keh kyet]
Cheers!Skål![Skawl!]
I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gjerne betale, vær så snill[Yay vil yair-neh be-tah-leh, vair so snill]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Hjelp![Yelp!]
Go away!Gå bort![Gaw bort!]
Call the Police!Ring politiet![Ring po-li-teet!]
Call a doctor!Ring en lege![Ring en leh-geh!]
I'm lostJeg er tapt[Yay air tahpt]
I'm illJeg er syk[Yay air seek]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Jeg vil kjøpe...[Yay vil shoo-peh...]
I'm just lookingJeg bare ser[Yay bar-eh seh]
How much is it?Hvor mye koster det?[Vor mee-eh koster deh?]
That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt[Deh air for deert]
Can you lower the price?Kan du senke prisen?[Kan du sen-keh pree-sen?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Hva er klokka?[Vah air klok-kah?]
It's one o'clockDet er ett[Deh air ett]
Half past (10)Halv (10)[Halv (10)]
MorningMorgen[Morgen]
AfternoonEttermiddag[Et-ter-mid-dahg]
EveningKveld[Kveld]
YesterdayI går[Ee gor]
TodayI dag[Ee dahg]
TomorrowI morgen[Ee mor-gen]
11[1]
22[2]
33[3]
44[4]
55[5]
66[6]
77[7]
88[8]
99[9]
1010[10]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Hvor er en/det...?[Vor air en/deht...?]
What's the address?Hva er adressen?[Vah air a-dres-sen?]
Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise meg (på kartet)?[Kan du vee-seh mai (poh kar-teht)?]
When's the next (bus)?Når går neste (buss)?[Norr gorr nes-teh (boos)?]
A ticket (to ....)En billett (til ...)[En bee-lett (til ...)]

History of Troms

Early Settlement and Sámi Continuity

People have used the coast, islands and inland valleys of Troms since the retreat of the last ice sheet. Archaeological evidence records fishing, hunting, trapping and trade, while rock art and settlement remains reveal long relationships with the sea and seasonal landscapes. Sámi communities developed extensive cultural and economic networks across northern Scandinavia, including areas that are now Troms. Reindeer husbandry became important in some districts, alongside fishing, hunting and small-scale farming. Sámi languages, place names, material culture and contemporary community life remain part of the region’s identity, although historic assimilation policies caused substantial cultural and linguistic loss.

Norse Settlement and Medieval Hålogaland

During the Viking Age and Middle Ages, coastal northern Norway was linked to the wider Hålogaland region, whose communities traded fish, skins and other northern products. Norse settlement expanded along favourable shores and interacted with established Sámi societies through exchange and sometimes conflict. Christianity brought new institutions and church building, with Trondenes Church near Harstad becoming one of the most important medieval churches in northern Norway. Its scale reflects the wealth generated by coastal trade and the strategic importance of the Vågsfjord area.

Fishing, Trade and Church Communities

From the late medieval period into the early modern era, Troms’s coastal economy centred on fishing and the movement of dried fish, grain, timber and imported goods. Small harbours and church communities connected remote settlements to Bergen and other parts of Norway. Seasonal fishing shaped population patterns, household work and local architecture, while farms in sheltered valleys supplemented maritime livelihoods. Churches, boathouses, trading sites and historic farm landscapes still show how communities adapted to a scattered coastline where sea transport was often more practical than overland travel.

Tromsø and the Rise of an Arctic Town

Tromsø was founded as a town in the eighteenth century and gradually became a centre for trade, administration and church activity in northern Norway. Its location made it a useful base for commerce with coastal settlements and for expeditions into the Arctic. By the nineteenth century, the town had gained an international reputation as a departure point for polar exploration and hunting voyages. The wooden buildings, museums and maritime collections of central Tromsø reflect this mixture of local trade, scientific ambition and the practical demands of life in a northern port.

Modernisation, Roads and Coastal Connections

The nineteenth and twentieth centuries brought stronger state administration, improved schooling, mechanised fishing and gradually better roads and communications. Harstad developed as an important maritime and commercial centre, while Tromsø expanded through education, research, healthcare and public administration. Ferries, bridges, tunnels and later air connections changed how island and mainland communities related to one another. These developments did not erase older livelihoods: fishing, farming, shipping and seasonal use of mountain and coastal resources continued alongside a more diversified service economy.

War and Occupation, 1940–1945

Troms was occupied by Germany during the Second World War, and the county became strategically important because of its ports, airfields, roads and position within the northern theatre. Military installations and prisoner-of-war camps formed part of the occupation landscape, while local communities faced restrictions, requisitions and uncertainty. The region also experienced the effects of the German retreat and destruction policy farther north in 1944–45, as refugees and displaced people moved through northern Norway. War memorials, fortifications and museums preserve aspects of this difficult period.

Post-war Reconstruction and Contemporary Arctic Identity

After 1945, Troms underwent extensive reconstruction and expanded its public services, transport links and educational institutions. Tromsø became an important centre for Arctic research and higher education, while Harstad strengthened its role in culture, maritime activity and regional administration. From the late twentieth century, renewed recognition of Sámi rights and cultural expression became an important part of northern Norway’s public life. Tourism has since grown around the aurora, midnight sun, outdoor recreation and coastal scenery, creating new opportunities while requiring careful management of fragile environments and local communities.

Troms in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Troms, Norway

Discover Troms with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, shops, and more with ease and convenience.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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Maximize your Troms adventure with Evendo, the ultimate free travel guide app. Discover attractions, book hotels, and experience the city like a local. Download now!

  • Comprehensive history of Troms
  • Travel essentials for visiting Troms
  • Curated local tips to experience the city like a local
  • Easy navigation through the app and city
  • 'Near Me' feature to find nearby attractions
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or hidden costs

Welcome to Troms, Norway, a land of majestic fjords, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. With Evendo, your journey through Troms becomes seamless and enriching. Whether it's your first visit or you're a seasoned traveler, Evendo transforms your trip into an extraordinary adventure.

Explore iconic landmarks like the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural marvel that stands as a symbol of Troms. Discover the stunning beauty of Tromsø Fjord and embark on thrilling Northern Lights tours. Delve into the rich history at the Polar Museum or enjoy a stroll in the charming streets of Tromsø city center.

Food lovers can savor the best of Norwegian cuisine at renowned restaurants like Mathallen Tromsø and Fiskekompaniet. For those seeking nightlife, the app guides you to the top bars and nightclubs, ensuring a memorable evening out.

Evendo offers detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities. Each location comes with rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details, making planning your trip a breeze. Plus, the app allows you to easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences, all in one place.

Download Evendo today and unlock the full potential of your Troms adventure. With features like travel essentials, local advice, easy navigation, and a 'Near Me' feature to find attractions around you, Evendo ensures you experience Troms like a local.

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