Where to stay in Tromsø: 12 incredible hotels and holiday rentals
Tromsø is one of Norway’s most spectacular destinations. Craggy mountain peaks are draped in a coating of snow for most of the year, contrasted by the surrounding fjords. Colourful wood-panelled homes topped with peaked roofs dot the landscape and it’s the ultimate launchpad for exploring the northern reaches of Norway’s Arctic topography.
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Tromsø is arguably one of Norway’s most handsome cities. The launchpad for many Arctic expeditions, both now and throughout history, the city has captured the imagination of Middle Age seafarers and modern-day wayfarers alike.
A notoriously lively city, Tromsø prides itself on balancing Arctic traditions with a buzzing contemporary cultural hub.
In every season, Tromsø is undoubtedly one of Scandinavia’s most beautiful destinations. Knowing where to stay in Tromsø can be a difficult decision, which is why I’ve created this useful guide to the best hotels and holiday rentals in Tromsø.
Understanding the best areas to stay in Tromsø based on your preferences, interests, and wider travel plans can make a huge difference in how you experience the city. That’s why I’ve reviewed the best areas in the city and a range of hotels, hostels, and apartments to stay in.
Discover the best places to stay to take full advantage of your visit with this handy Tromsø accommodation guide.
How long should you spend in Tromsø?
The northern lights are a major drawcard for visitors to Tromsø, which is why I recommend at least 4 nights in Tromsø. This allows for multiple opportunities to try your hand at aurora hunting, as well as fill your days with plenty of polar activities in winter.
Note: it is only possible to see the northern lights from September - early April.
Where to stay in Tromsø
Tromsø is unequivocally one of the most beautiful cities in the world. On the Eastern edge of Tromsøya, the compact layout of the city makes soaking up the Arctic atmosphere simple.
Whether you want to be close to the best of the city’s attractions Downtown or basking in the bucolic setting of the Norwegian wilderness, finding the perfect accommodation for your preferences can be the key to an amazing experience.
Here are the best places to stay in Tromsø.
Downtown Tromsø - best for cultural connoisseurs
The beating heart of Tromsø can be found Downtown, with the best hotels stationed on the charming harbourfront. With a selection of the city’s best eateries, tourist sights, and a sensational view across the fjord to Tromsdalen, it’s the top spot for those who want to be at the centre of it all. With a chance to view the northern lights right from the comfort (and warmth) of your bed, it’s the top choice for visitors when choosing their accommodation in Tromsø.
Luxury Accommodation in Tromsøya
Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø
The recently renovated Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø occupies prime real estate on Tromsø’s harbourfront overlooking the colourful wooden boat sheds and buildings that line the seafront.
The beautifully designed rooms feature light wood detailing, modern furnishings, and mountain or sea views.
Free access to the sauna and fitness room complete with mountain views top off this spectacular stay, and guests can take advantage of several great restaurants just steps away, including a pizzeria and pub.
THE DETAILS
Address | Sjogata 7, 9008 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £120
Amenities | tea and coffee facilities, desk, restaurant,
Book now | Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø
Arctic Homes - The Retreat
If you’re in need of a holiday home in Tromsø to fit the whole family, then Arctic Homes - The Retreat is a must.
This three-bedroom home features a shared living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and two bathrooms ensuring there is enough space for everyone.
Featuring a modern, neutral design throughout, this delightful homestay is located right in the heart of Tromsø so you’ll be surrounded by the best of the city’s sights and restaurants.
THE DETAILS
Address | 93A Storgata, 9008 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £215
Amenities | Bedrooms, private bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, living room
Book now | Arctic Homes - The Retreat
Mid-range Accommodation in Tromsøya
Clarion Hotel The Edge
Contemporary design and a prime location make the Clarion Hotel The Edge an excellent base for your time in Tromsø.
Head to the sky bar in summer to enjoy the midnight sun overlooking the city or watch the northern lights dance above your head with a drink in hand to keep you toasty.
Rooms offer exceptional views across the harbour and you have everything you need with an onsite restaurant and fitness centre in the neighbouring building.
THE DETAILS
Address | Kaigata 6, 9008 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £123
Amenities | Bedrooms, private bathroom, sky bar and roof terrace, guest lounge, onsite restaurant
Book now | Clarion Hotel The Edge
Arctic City Studio
Putting you right at the centre of town, the Arctic City Studio is a charming studio apartment with modern fittings and includes a small kitchen, washing machine, and dining area.
Perfect for those who prefer to self-cater or ideal for those looking to work remotely, this cosy apartment has everything you need.
Just around the corner from The Polar Museum, guests are also afforded city views, free parking, and wifi.
THE DETAILS
Address | 91 Storgata, 9008 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £128
Amenities | Studio apartment, kitchen, private bathroom, washing machine
Book now | Arctic City Studio
Enter St. Elisabeth Suites
For a stay that feels a little more boujie without breaking the bank, then a stay at the aesthetic Enter St. Elisabeth Suites will appeal.
These refreshingly modern apartments feature a fully equipped kitchen and dining table, as well as access to a sauna and pool, and some rooms feature sea views.
Offering both one and two-bedroom apartments, this location is ideal for couples and families who want to be close to the centre of town but with a quieter position than the central harbour hotels.
THE DETAILS
Address | 50 Mellomvegen, 9007 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £148
Amenities | private bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, access to shared facilities including a social lounge, sauna, pool and fitness centre
Book now | Enter St. Elisabeth Suites
RELATED | IS TROMSO EXPENSIVE?
Budget-friendly accommodation in Tromsøya
Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromsø
If you’d rather spend your pennies on more activities and experience everything Tromsø has to offer, then save with a cost-saving stay at Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromsø.
Ideally located on Grønnegata, the street running adjacent to Tromsø’s main street Storgata, this 3-star hotel features modern amenities, though the rooms are smaller than other hotels in the city.
Just a 5-minute walk from the Hurtigruten ferry terminal, there is also a 24/7 lobby shop stocking breakfast items, snacks and beverages.
THE DETAILS
Address | Grønnegata 35, 9008 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £69
Amenities | rooms, desk, 24-hour reception, private bathroom
Book now | Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromsø
Smarthotel Tromsø
Centrally located and offering the convenience of a 24-hour reception service, Smarthotel Tromsø is an ideal budget-friendly stay.
If you plan on spending more time out and about, these minimalist rooms have everything you need including a private bathroom, as well as a lobby shop serving light refreshments.
Just a 2-minute walk from the city’s main street Storgata, and less than 10 minutes to the Hurtigruten ferry terminal, this is the perfect place for budget-conscious travellers.
THE DETAILS
Address | Vestregata 6, 9008 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £64
Amenities | private room with bathroom, desk, 24-hour reception, lobby shop
Book now | Smarthotel Tromsø
Tromsdalen - Best for budget-conscious travellers
For those looking for a quieter stay that is easier on the budget, Tromsdalen is a quaint side of Tromsø full of local stays in mostly private homes. Known for a few of Tromsø’s famous sights including the Arctic Cathedral and the Fjellheisen cable car, Tromsdalen is a brilliant location that’s just a 15-minute walk from Downtown Tromsø.
Tromsø Lodge & Camping
Situated by the Tromsdalselva River, Tromsø Lodge & Camping offers a range of cabins and cottages that embrace comfortable Nordic hospitality.
Closely located to numerous hiking trails, you can connect with nature while only being a short distance from the energetic centre of Tromsø.
Guests can make the most of the onsite football field, sauna, and BBQ facilities to experience a well-rounded stay.
THE DETAILS
Address | Elvestrandvn 10, 9020 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £66
Amenities | shared or private bathrooms, kitchen facilities, sauna, football field, shared BBQ facilities
Book now | Tromsø Lodge & Camping
Tromsø City Apartments
Enjoy the light-filled airy suites at Tromsø City Apartments which ooze with Norwegian cosiness thanks to light wood panelling and large windows.
Ideally located a short walk from the iconic Arctic Cathedral, these apartments are also conveniently located to public transport to connect you with Downtown Tromsø.
Self-caterers will be thrilled with modern kitchen appliances, while the outdoorsy folk can enjoy water activities and fishing nearby.
THE DETAILS
Address | 5 Storsteinnesvegen, 9020 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £99
Amenities | suites, private bathroom, balcony, modern kitchen facilities, water sports facilities
Book now | Tromsø City Apartments
The Arctic Villa in Tromsø
Whether travelling with family or friends, the three-bedroom Arctic Villa is ideal for larger groups.
One of the oldest and most idyllic properties in Tromsø, this stunning home includes a beautiful garden, BBQ area, and free parking.
Placing you perfectly for skiing, you’re also closely connected to the cable car and a short walk from the Arctic Cathedral.
THE DETAILS
Address | Broxvegen 3, 9020 Tromsø, Norway
Price per night | from £320
Amenities | Rooms, kitchen, living room with sofa, BBQ facilities, garden, free parking
Book now | The Arctic Villa in Tromsø
RELATED | HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Klavøya Island - Best for the Northern Lights
Klavøya Island otherwise known as Whale Island is the place to stay if seeing the northern lights in Tromsø is your top priority. A short 10-minute drive from Downtown Tromsøya and the closest area to the airport in this guide, it’s also the gateway to connect visitors with the outdoors.
Steam Pier
Those in search of an escape to the wild will find the tranquillity of Steam Pier the perfect respite from busy city life.
Boasting mountain views right from the seaside, these one-bedroom apartments have everything you need for a restful stay including a fully equipped kitchen and free onsite car parking.
THE DETAILS
Address | 522 Eidvegen, 9100 Kvaløya, Norway
Price per night | from £86
Amenities | Apartment, separate bedroom, private bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, free car parking
Book now | Steam Pier
Buvik Sea Lodge
A stay at Buvik Sea Lodge is a remarkable Arctic experience. Providing a sense of luxury at every turn from the dark panelled walls to the private terrace with sea views, it’s the ultimate stay for outdoor lovers.
Guests can melt into a state of euphoria watching the gentle motions of the tide from the floor-to-ceiling windows of the onsite sauna, or soak under the northern lights in the hot tub for an additional fee.
This aparthotel takes care of everything, offering a laundry service and a fully equipped kitchen in every apartment.
THE DETAILS
Address | 2402 Leirstrandvegen, 9106 Buvik, Norway
Price per night | from £265
Amenities | two-bedroom apartment, private bathroom, full kitchen, sauna, hot tub, laundry service
Book now | Buvik Sea Lodge
How to get to Tromsø
Despite being perched high up in the northern reaches of Norway 350 km inside the Arctic Circle, Tromsø can easily be reached from numerous European countries.
BY AIR
Tromsø Langnes airport is located just 5km from the city centre and reached by both domestic and international flights. With 10 direct flights from Oslo daily, reaching Tromsø is fast and convenient with flight times around 1 hour and 40 minutes.
While most flights to Tromsø via international routes will transit in Oslo, there are direct flights from several cities in Europe including London-Gatwick, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Helsinki, Copenhagen, and Stockholm.
BY SEA
Tromsø has a long history as a key port town in northern Scandinavia and the inky fjords that skirt much of Norway’s coastline make travelling to Tromsø by sea the perfect way to explore.
Two ferry companies, Hurtigruten and Havila, operate services between Bergen and Kirkenes all year round, with twice-daily stops in Tromsø.
Ferries are a great way to enjoy the coastal splendour of Norway’s craggy landscapes.
Approximate travel times from the south by sea are:
Bergen - 64 hours
Trondheim - 51 hours
Bodø - 24 hours
Svolvær - 17 hours
Harstad - 7 hours
Finnsnes - 3 hours
Approximate travel times from the north via sea are:
Kirkenes - 35 hours
Honningsvåg (close to Nordkapp) - 18 hours
Hammerfest - 12 hours
Skjervøy - 4 hours
BY BUS
There is no train station in Tromsø which means if you plan on an overland journey to Tromsø, you’ll need to head there by bus or car.
Tromsø can be reached by a long distance coach service from several Norwegian cities including Alta, Narvik, and Fauske. Throughout the summer a long distance bus service also operates between Tromsø and Rovaniemi in Finland.
If you plan on connecting your bus journey with a train expedition, the nearest station is Narvik. There are several services operating between Narvik and Sweden from Abisko, Kiruna, and Stockholm.
Fauske is the train station for connections using the Norwegian Railway from Trondheim and Oslo. From there you can use the bus service from Fauske to Tromsø.
