The Arctic circle… probably not at the top of your list for a weekend away, right? Well, think again. With Norwegian flying low cost to destinations across Scandinavia, in just over 3 hours, you can be in Tromsø, Norway, 400km north of the Arctic Circle.
STAY
Tromsø is a tiny town with heaps to do, which it makes it perfect for a long weekend; but there’s no way around it, Norway is expensive. For those on a budget, avoid the high hotel prices with an Airbnb. Try this spacious, modern two bed apartment in a traditional Scandinavian house, located a 5 minute bus ride from central Tromsø, and sitting directly underneath a mountain. For something more central and with spectacular panoramic views, try this 2 bed apartment sitting just a few steps from Tromsø’s city centre.
EAT AND DRINK
For coffee and brunch, head to Kaffebønna, and try homemade pastries whilst watching the boats bobbing on the harbour. For homemade and reasonably priced pizza, Casa Inferno is an excellent choice, and try BURGR, a tiny burger joint with a retro video game theme. After dinner, head to Ølhallen, the oldest brewery in the city, for local ales and a warm atmosphere. If you’re not tired out, Solid serves excellent cocktails and turns into a dance floor when it’s late enough.
SEE
For incredible views of Tromsø, take the Fjellheisen cable car up to the top of the mountain, and see the fjords and arctic landscape surrounding the city. Treat yourself to a hot chocolate at the mountain top restaurant to escape the subzero temperatures outside.
As the sun sets, wrap up warm and head out to chase the Northern Lights. 2017 is the best year to see the Northern lights for the next 10 years, and according to locals, Tromsø is the best place on earth to see them. Polar Adventures offer a night long chase, with friendly guides that help you take the best pictures of the tour.
Once you’ve ticked the Northern Lights of your bucket list, explore the surrounding fjords by boat and hope to spot humpback whales and orcas. For adrenaline junkies, book on the Arctic Explorer’s rib tour, where you are completely exposed to the arctic winds, and whales will dive right underneath your boat. If you’re looking for a more relaxing tour, Arctic Explorers offers a cruise where you can spot whales from a deck with a cup of coffee in hand.
If Northern Lights, Orcas and snowcapped fjords haven’t got you booking your flight, then we don’t know what will…
Bethany Ditzel
DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at [email protected]
Inspiration/Image Credits: Bethany Ditzel
What do you think?
You must be logged in to post a comment.