10 days in Troms: living the nature of winter Norway fjords
Read my Brain:
✿ This symbol means… it’s Really worth doing!
✎ This symbol means… it’s Not worth it, unless you have time to spare!
Intoduction to
Troms, Norway
Not cold at all! You won’t believe it, coming from a cold person such as me, but Norway Fjords were so beautiful that I did not feel the cold!
Of course heavy clothes had a share in this achievement, but so did the beauty of Northern Lights, the Norwegian Alps, the new animal species we have encountered, and the experiences I could live there.
You just need to grasp the vibe of such a different-climate country, and then you can enjoy its rhythm. During winter season, everything in Norway works differently than what we are used to: sun sets at lunch time, it’s constantly dark, the night is for staying at home and do home activities, early mornings are a must, the sky has “special effects”… It definitely felt like another planet.
If it’s your first time seeing northern lights, you’ll definitely be amazed. But thanks to this trip, I also learned that nature isn’t always what you expect it to be or what internet, socials and photoshopped pictures & videos show you. I had such huge expectations about northern lights, and yes the whole concept is definitely cool and amazing, but in reality they aren’t so amazing as much as they are when recorded with a camera. The lights respond much better to the camera eye, which has a different way to scan its color shades. Rather, I was amazed by things I’d have never expected, such as white mountain peaks giving twice their beauty, because reflected in the shining lakes surfaces; or wild and free reindeers on the road, rather than those you see carrying you around in Norwegian ads; or the warm feeling this cold weather could give your body instead of the suffering I was expecting!
Anyway all of this is to say: go there with no expectations! Just let this place amaze you with its nature. This place doesn’t need anything artificial to achieve its status, the natural wonders are already enough to make it one of the best places you could visit!
And yes, Troms and Tromsoe are two different things. Troms is the whole region place where Tromsoe is in, and we have gone around it all! <3
Your perfect plan for
10 days in Troms Norway
To do our same tour, you will need 10 full days approximately.
REMINDER: This blog allocates experiences in the way that saves the most time (spent on reaching areas) and energy! Isn’t it great? <3 ).
DAY 1
✈️ Fly to Tromsoe and Settle
DAY 2
Icelandic Horse Riding
DAY 3
The Lyngen Alps & Snowmobiling
DAY 4
A day in Tromsø
DAY 5
A day in the Fjords
DAY 7
Frozen batch at the Fjords
DAY 8
A day at the Frozen Spa
DAY 9
✈️ Fly back home
If you wish to find my map pins and easily follow them, follow me on mapstr!
IMPORTANT:
All you need to know
before travelling to Norway
-
Reindeer, Moose, and Deer - What’s the difference?
In English, these animals are called:
Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) - (“Renna” in italian)
Moose (Alces alces) - (“Alce” in italian)
Deer – a general term that includes many species, such as the Red deer (cervus elaphus) or the White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) - (“Cervo” in italian).
The term “rein” comes from Old Norse reinn, meaning “pack animal”, while deer is the generic English word for members of the deer family. Reindeer are famously associated with the Nordic regions and with Christmas traditions, particularly as Santa’s sleigh-pullers.
Although moose and reindeer are both members of the deer family, they differ in several significant ways:
Size – Moose (Alces alces) are much larger than reindeer. Adult moose can weigh up to 700 kg (over 1,500 lbs), while reindeer generally weigh between 80 and 250 kg (175–550 lbs).
Physical appearance – Moose have large heads with broad muzzles and darker coats. Males grow enormous, flat antlers. Reindeer, on the other hand, have smaller, more branched antlers and a coat ranging from light brown to white, with thick fur adapted to Arctic cold.
Cultural significance – Reindeer are tied to popular culture, particularly through Christmas stories like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and have long been used as pack animals in northern regions. Moose, meanwhile, are more closely linked to the traditions of people in boreal forests and mountainous areas, and are often hunted for meat and hides.
Can you play with them or approach them?
Moose may appear calm and harmless, but they can actually be very dangerous—especially if they feel threatened. You should never approach them, as moose are capable of charging when startled or irritated.
Why some reindeers have antlers and some don’t?
Generally, male moose shed their antlers in winter, usually between December and January, and begin regrowing them in spring and summer. If you happen to see moose with antlers during this time of year, there are a few possible explanations. They could have been females—although female moose typically don’t grow antlers, rare exceptions do occur—but it’s more likely they were males that hadn’t shed theirs yet. Some males lose their antlers later than usual, and young males sometimes keep their first small set longer than adults. Another possibility is that they weren’t moose at all, but reindeer. In northern Norway, especially around Tromsø, male reindeer keep their antlers until late winter, while females shed theirs after giving birth in spring.
-
If you want to find out when northern lights are actually above you, two useful tools are the Aurora app and the Norway Lights app. The Aurora app provides real-time KP index readings, cloud cover forecasts, and probability maps, allowing you to see not just where the auroral oval is, but also how strong the activity is in your exact location. Norway Lights, developed by Visit Norway, gives a simpler, location-based forecast in plain language, telling you whether it’s likely you’ll see the lights at your current position or nearby.
By cross-checking the detailed data from Aurora with the straightforward “yes/no/possible” guidance from Norway Lights, you can quickly determine if the aurora is above you and whether it’s bright enough to be visible to the naked eye.
Trust me: take your phone, take a pic, and photograph the sky — it’s often the quickest way to confirm whether the aurora is faint but present.
You might not be seeing the northern lights even though an aurora tracking site says it’s above you. Why?
1. The Aurora Might Be Too Weak
Aurora tracking sites use satellite data to show auroral activity, but that doesn’t guarantee it’s bright enough to see with the naked eye.
If the activity level is low to moderate, it might only be visible on a camera with long exposure, not to your eyes.
2. Eye Adaptation to Darkness
If you’ve been exposed to artificial lights before going outside, your eyes may not have fully adapted to the dark.
It takes about 20–30 minutes for night vision to reach full sensitivity.
3. Moonlight and Light Pollution
Even far from city lights, a bright moon can make it hard to see a faint aurora.
Try looking in the opposite direction from the moon to improve contrast.
4. Low-Contrast Aurora
If the aurora is diffuse and pale, it can blend into the natural brightness of the night sky.
Take a photo with a smartphone or camera using long exposure — the aurora may appear clearly in the image even if your eyes can’t detect it well.
5. Aurora Position
“Above you” on the map may mean the auroral oval covers your location, but the visible arcs could be lower on the horizon.
Scan the sky in all directions, especially toward the north.
-
Winter packing list:
Accessories:
Cotton gloves / touchscreen gloves
Ski gloves
Snow boots
Heavy technical socks
Scarf
Balaclava
Wool hat
ps: I basically lived out of my balaclava, it served as both a hat and a scarf, and it was sooo useful to avoid having two items - hat and scarf - to deal with all the time!
Tops:
Snow jacket
Heavy coat
Fleece Sweater
Thermal shirts
Cashmere tank top to wear underneath
Home tracksuit
Sweaters
Warm pajama
Bottoms:
Cashmere socks
Thermal socks
Thermal leggings
Ski pants
Ski pants (bigger and looser)
Warm thermal leggings
Items:
Tissues
Hand warmers and foot warmers
SWIMSUIT!! For the spa
BATHROBE - if you want to enjoy warmth after shower an d hate the small towels they usually give in airbnbs! -
One of the most important things to understand when visiting Northern Norway is the local rhythm of time, which is shaped by the Arctic light and seasons. In winter, darkness falls as early as 2 pm, so days are short and mornings become the best time to enjoy the fjords and outdoor activities while there’s still light. Meals also follow an earlier schedule than in many other countries: lunch is typically around noon, dinner is often between 5 and 6 pm, and many restaurants close by 9 pm. Don’t expect much nightlife—Norwegians usually spend their evenings at home, especially during the long winter nights. Adapting to this pace not only helps you make the most of your trip but also allows you to experience the Norwegian way of life more authentically, appreciating quiet mornings, early meals, and the beauty of living in harmony with the light.
LET’S GO…
TROMS NORWAY
Day 1
Fly to Tromsoe & arrive
✿ Sleep in Andersdal
Here is where we stayed. An amazing chalet, with the real Norwegian fjords experience - low lighting, nature and snow around, and some sheep as well, a fireplace… It was magical!
https://it.airbnb.com/rooms/1099224261266617961
The Ramfjordbotn was our favorite fjord in this area!
✿ Rent a car with snow tires
When renting a car in Tromsø, it’s crucial to ensure that snow tires are already included, especially if you’re visiting between late autumn and early spring. The roads in and around Tromsø can be icy, snowy, and winding, with rapidly changing weather conditions that even locals respect. Snow tires, ideally studded for maximum grip, provide the traction needed to drive safely on slippery Arctic roads. Without them, you risk not only losing control of the vehicle but also violating local safety regulations, as winter tires are a legal requirement during the colder months. Confirming this detail with the rental company before you arrive will save you stress and keep your Arctic adventure safe and enjoyable.
On rentalcars you are aware from the card page when a car has snow tires included.
✿ Pre-buy a Norwegian CookBook to learn and cook their food culture
One of the most rewarding ways to embrace your Norwegian adventure—especially during Tromsø’s dark winter months when the sun sets around 2 pm and nightlife is scarce—is to bring the experience into your own chalet kitchen. We found that cooking Norwegian meals became a highlight of our trip, giving life and warmth to those short Arctic days. A gem we recommend is North Wild Kitchen, a beautifully crafted cookbook by Nevada Berg, an American who moved to rural Norway and immersed herself in the local traditions, seasonal produce, and culinary heritage. Each recipe is paired with a heartfelt story that transports you to Norwegian farms, forests, and fjords, revealing the country’s culture through food. From cozy breakfasts to hearty dinners, cooking from this book not only filled our plates but also deepened our connection to Norway’s soul. It’s more than a cookbook—it’s an inspiring journey you can taste.
You’ll find it here in amazon, so you can buy it before going there.
✿ Spot free Reindeers in the route
One of the greatest thing about getting a house which is not in the center of tromsoe, is that you are closely in touch with nature and its perks. One of them? Seeing reindeers free on the side of the roads you’ll drive in.
I do not like animal exploitation for touristic purposes, and this is why I try to restrict at best these experiences. I preferred to avoid tours like “Reindeer Feeding and Sledding” tours they usually organize. I rather enjoyed their presence very upclose during my drives around the fjords.
You can read all MUST-KNOW information about reindeers in the all-you-need-to-know information.
✿ Spot the Northern Lights
Being far from the city allows you to spot the Northern Lights more easily.
Seeing the Northern Lights is one of Tromsø’s greatest draws, and a little preparation can make the experience unforgettable.
The aurora is most visible between late September and early April, when the nights are long and dark, and the best viewing usually happens between 9 pm and 2 am.
To improve your chances,
head away from city lights
Dress warmly in layers, as you may spend hours outside waiting
Make sure to bring a Camera device, the lights are mostly spotted by the devices, rather than our human eye. It happened to me that I was looking at the sky and I couldn’t see anything, just some fog, but with my Iphone camera, it was a beautiful green color!
To track activity, check aurora forecast apps like
“Aurora”
“Norway Lights”
Remember: patience is key—sometimes the lights appear as a faint glow that suddenly bursts into waves of green, pink, or purple, making the wait absolutely worth it.
✿ Make your Norway experience stay in a puzzle
One of our favorite little traditions from the trip was working on a puzzle in the evenings, when the fjords outside seemed to fall silent and the long Arctic night wrapped around us. It was the perfect cozy activity after a day outdoors—calming, creative, and something we could share together. When we finally finished it, we framed the puzzle and left it in the chalet as a small memory of our presence there, a piece of us staying behind in Norway long after we’d gone.
You could do the same!
Day 2
Icelandic Horse Riding
✿
Have lunch in Tromsoe at the Rakettkiosken and try Reindeer Hot Dogs
Reindeers are at the base of Norwegian food culture, and even if I am not a lover of meat and I usually avoid it, you should know by now that I love trying out local culture food to immerse myself in the traditions. So if you are like me, this cannot be missed!
✿
Ride Icelandic Horses at sunset in Nordre Hestnes Gård
Tucked away in peaceful Balsfjord, about a one‑hour drive from Tromsø, Nordre Hestnes Gård felt like a secret retreat far from the tourist trail. We were lucky enough to meet the lady who cares for a herd of Icelandic horses there at the farm. She kindly agreed to take us out on her everyday trail for a personalized horse‑riding day that quickly became the highlight of our trip. Riding at sunset, with her guiding us through mountains and along the fjord’s edge, felt intimate, uncrowded—and utterly authentic. As someone who normally avoids crowds and touristy activities, discovering this genuine, quiet farm experience was exhilarating. If you’re planning to go, I’d suggest reaching out by email or via Instagram to book your ride—and aim for a clear sky day and sunny sunset for the most magical memories. I can only hope you're as fortunate as I was to get such a wonderful day. (fyi: this experience is around 65€ ish)
Here is their website: https://www.nordre-hestnes-gaard.no/
Or you can write them on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nordre_hestnes_gard/
ps: this was place so magical, that it was our food highlight for our trip too. But we will get to this later on…
✿ Have dinner at Nordre Hestnes Gård
This was the most authentic and worth dinner of our entire trip, and it was worth the expense. I’d do it every day of my stay in Norway, so do not miss it!
At Nordre Hestnes Gård, we had what was truly the best meal of our trip—a dining experience as intimate as it was unforgettable.
When we visited, the restaurant had just opened, and with only two tables in the entire room, we felt like some of the very first guests welcomed into their vision.
The kitchen is run by a French chef who once worked in Michelin-starred restaurants in France but chose to leave that world behind to embrace the slower, authentic Norwegian lifestyle. His gourmet creations are rooted in Norwegian tradition yet elevated with fine technique, and every dish is crafted using ingredients harvested the very same day from the farm’s own gardens and fields. The result is a rare blend of sophistication and simplicity—an exclusive, kilometro-zero culinary experience that feels deeply personal, with flavors as fresh and pure as the Arctic landscape surrounding the farm.
✿ Have dinner at the Dragoy
If you’re looking to try something truly local while in Tromsø, order the snow crab (snøkrabbe). Caught in the cold, pristine waters of Northern Norway, this delicacy offers sweet, delicate meat with a flavor reminiscent of king crab but with its own unique, subtle character. Traditionally fished in the Barents Sea, snow crab is a more authentic, native choice compared to the famous but non-native king crab. Served simply to let its natural taste shine, it’s a must-try for a real Arctic seafood experience.
Day 3
The Lyngen Alps & Snowmobiling
✿
Snowmobiling in the Lyngen Alps
Snowmobiling in the Lyngen Alps is an adrenaline-filled way to experience one of Norway’s most spectacular winter landscapes. Just a couple of hours from Tromsø, this dramatic mountain range offers vast, open snowfields, frozen lakes, and panoramic fjord views that seem straight out of a postcard.
It’s not just about the ride; it’s about immersing yourself in the wild beauty of Northern Norway in a way few get to experience.
(fyi: it was around 150€).
The website we booked the snowmobile from: https://www.svensbytursenter.no/activities/snowmobile-safari
To get there, you’ll have to drive up to the Breivikeidet Ferjekai Port, and tet the ferry boat (yes you can get on with your car of course) to Svensby Fergekai. The starting point is basically there, but the tour company will tell you all details.
The reason why I am telling you this, is that this drive up there is itself an experience, beautiful view points and a different landscape compared to what you’ve seen so far.
✿
Watch a movie in one of the most historic cinemas in the world
In the heart of Tromsø sits the charming Verdensteatret Kino, one of the oldest continuously operating cinemas in the world, dating back to 1916. Stepping inside feels like traveling back in time—its ornate details, vintage posters, and warm, intimate atmosphere make it as much a cultural landmark as a movie theater. It’s more than just a place to watch films; it’s a gathering spot where locals come for indie screenings, Norwegian classics, and international cinema, often paired with a cozy drink from the in-house café and bar. Whether you’re a film lover or simply want to soak up a bit of Tromsø’s history, catching a movie here offers a uniquely authentic and nostalgic slice of Arctic life.
Day 4
A day in Tromsø
✿
Ceramics experience in Tromsoe
In Tromsø, a wonderful way to slow down and connect with local creativity is by visiting Skaperlaget, a cozy artisan store and workshop where you can learn the art of Norwegian ceramics. This space, run by passionate makers, invites visitors to roll up their sleeves and shape clay into unique, handmade pieces inspired by Nordic nature and everyday life in the Arctic.
The experience goes beyond just crafting—it’s a chance to meet local artists, hear their stories, and understand how traditional techniques blend with modern Scandinavian design. Whether you’re sculpting a simple mug or an intricate decorative piece, you’ll leave not only with a personal souvenir but also with a deeper appreciation for Norway’s craft culture.
Write them an email in advance to book your spot, they do not have everyday activities.
✿
Have lunch at Burgr
Tucked in the heart of Tromsø, Burgr is not your average burger joint—it’s a playful, retro-gaming escape where juicy burgers and pixel nostalgia collide. As soon as you step inside, you’re surrounded by vintage video game posters, joystick-shaped tables, and an atmosphere that feels like stepping back into a classic arcade. The menu is just as creative as the décor, with signature burgers like the “Mario Burger” or “Chop Chop Master Onion,” and even options featuring local ingredients such as reindeer or seafood.
✿
Have some leisure time at the “Husband Care Center”
Loving the name by the way!
It’s a place where yes, you should bring your husband, but you’ll have more fun than him! It’s basically just a very cool name to call this Fun bar, with Darts, Bowling and much more.
✿ Have dinner at the Casa Inferno Restaurant
If you had enough of Norwegian food, well this is a very good alternative. I must say, being italian and being very picky about pizza, that it was actually great (if you like Napolitan kind of pizza). In fact, it was owned and runned by italians so it comes as no surprise that it was a great restaurant. They are famous for their very spicy pizza they throw on flames when served, but this wasn’t the greatest in terms of flavour.
✎
Some of my favorite shops <3
Mostly vintage and antique shops, homemade pieces, ceramics and clothes.
✿
Have a crepe, cause why not!
It’s cold enough to enjoy a warm nutella crepe!
✿
Visit the local library
At Grønnegata 94, the Tromsø City Library and Archive stands as both a cultural landmark and an architectural gem. The building’s striking curved roof, once part of an old cinema, now shelters four light-filled floors of books, archives, and community spaces.
Inside, the atmosphere is airy yet warm, with cozy reading corners, children’s areas, and wide windows that flood the space with Arctic light. More than just a library, it has become a vibrant hub where locals gather.
Perhaps you will find your own interesting read and enjoy the snowy view of Tromsoe while at it.
Day 5
A day in the Fjords
✿ Enjoy the Fjords in a sunny day - a whole different eperience
It’s not so common to get sunny days with clear skies in winter here. So when it’s sunny, just go out and drive across the fjords surrounding you and enjoy the skies reflected in the lakes.
If you have a drone you can really go beyond!
This is the place where we went, with this bridge to get over the fjords.
✿
Are you a fan of McDonald?
Tromsø is home to the northernmost McDonald’s in the world, a fun and quirky claim to fame up there with the Arctic skies. It's not just the northernmost in Europe—it holds the global title. So yes, grabbing your fries here comes with bonus bragging rights.
Day 6
Lakes Hiking
✿
Hiking to the lakes
Hiking through the fjord mountains on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to discover Northern Norway’s hidden beauty, with countless trails leading to crystal-clear mountain lakes. A great example is the route from Stordal to Stordalvatnet Lake, a peaceful hike that winds through valleys and opens up to the still, mirror-like waters of the lake, surrounded by towering peaks.
But this is just one of many—around Tromsø and the fjord region, the mountains are dotted with lakes waiting to be explored on foot or admired from above with a drone. Each hike feels like uncovering a secret corner of the Arctic, where the scenery changes at every turn and the lakes shimmer like gems tucked between the peaks.
Day 7
Frozen bath in the Fjords
✿ Immerse in frozen waters
Imagine gently drifting in the icy fjord waters just outside Tromsø—wrapped in a cozy, waterproof dry suit that keeps you warm and buoyant. For three magical hours, you float quietly beneath towering snow-dusted peaks, surrounded by serene Arctic beauty.
Afterwards, you’re welcomed around a crackling campfire with steaming hot drinks and traditional Norwegian pastries—a comforting contrast to the chilly waters.
It’s a unique blend of adventure, peaceful nature, and cozy warmth all rolled into one unforgettable morning.
You can find the experience here.
Day 8
A day at the Frozen Spa
✿
Sauna and frozen bath
Imagine drifting gently in the tranquil Arctic waters near Tromsø, wrapped snugly in a high-tech immersion suit that keeps you warm and buoyant as you float in near silence. After the calming float, you gather around a crackling campfire to sip steaming drinks and savor Norwegian pastries, cozying up to the warmth while gazing at the still fjord. It’s a serene, tactile adventure that ends with a fun keepsake certificate—an unforgettable morning that blends peaceful connection with nature, friendliness, and a hint of magic.
You can find this experience here.
A bit farer from Tromsoe, but also a nice experience, this one here.
