There’s no sight quite like the northern lights. And if you want to see this spectacular natural show, you should spend some time in Tromso, Norway.
Despite its relatively small size, there are only around 75,000 people living there, it’s still a popular place for travelers to visit. That’s why there are some great Tromso accommodation options for you to choose from.
Obviously, the northern lights are the big hit in winter in this area. But there are a huge variety of things to do at different times of the year. Temperatures in Tromso are a little milder than they are in other countries of similar latitude. This makes it the perfect city to see the Midnight Sun and miles of untouched natural landscapes.
To help you choose between all the best places to stay in Tromso, we’ve created this list so you can find a bed at every budget point and in different parts of the city.
- Where to Stay in Tromso
- Tromso Neighborhood Guide
- Tromso’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- #1 Tromsoya – Where to Stay in Tromso First Time
- #2 Tromsdalen – Where to Stay in Tromso on a Budget
- #3 Downtown Tromso – Best Area to Stay in Tromso for Nightlife
- #4 Sommaroy – Coolest Place to Stay in Tromso
- #5 Kvaloya – Best Neighborhood in Tromso for Families
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Tromso
Tromso is one of the best places to visit when backpacking Norway. If you are kooking for a specific place to stay, then these are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Tromso.
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Best Hotel in Tromso: Clarion Collection Hotel With
This hotel in Tromso is just a short walk from the Tromso Cathedral and is located close to other popular landmarks. It offers a sauna, free Wi-Fi, airport transfers and a laundry service on request.
It’s also close to several clubs and bars, so you’ll have easy access to the city’s nightlife, and the rooms are comfortable, modern, and include all the equipment you’ll need for a short or long stay.
Best Airbnb in Tromso: Cozy Apartment by the Lake
This apartment is located in one of the best areas to stay in Tromso. It’s suitable for up to 3 guests and includes a well-equipped kitchen and private bathroom with underfoot heating. The furnishings are clean and modern, and the apartment is located close to the city center for the ultimate convenience.
Cozy Apartment by the Lake is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Tromso: Tromso Activities Hostel
There are very few hostels in this city, so if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Tromso on a budget, then grab this option quickly. The hostel is bright and modern and offers dorm rooms at a reasonable price right in the heart of the city. It also offers activities if you’re traveling alone and want some company during your explorations!
Tromso Activities Hostel is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Tromsoya
Tromsoya is the main island and it’s where most of the shops, restaurants, and museums are located. This makes it the best area in Tromso to stay in if you want convenient access to food and entertainment.
Tromsdalen
Visiting Tromso can get a little expensive, particularly if you’re staying in the city center. But if you’re looking for the best area in Tromso to stay in on a budget, this is a good alternative.
Downtown Tromso
Downtown Tromso is a small subjection of Tromsoya and is one of Tromso’s best neighborhoods for all types of travelers. This part of the city is based around Storgata, the main pedestrian walking street, where you’ll find lots of places to eat, shop, and just enjoy everyday life in the city.
Sommaroy
If you want to be a little out of the city, then Sommaroy is one of the coolest places to stay in Tromso. It’s located just outside of Kvaloya and connected to it by a bridge.
Kvaloya
If you want to stay in a more remote location where you can see the northern lights in all their glory, then check out the area around Kvaloya.
Tromso is a fairly small city despite the recent influx of tourists who want to see the northern lights. So, there aren’t the huge areas dedicated to travelers that you’ll find in other cities. But there are still several parts of the city and just outside it that contain hotels that offer a comfortable, convenient place to stay while you’re in the city.
Tromsoya is the main island where all of the shops, restaurants, and cafes are. This is where most tourists stay as it’s convenient to everything and offers all the amenities you might need for your stay in the city. It’s also a great choice if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Tromso with kids.
If the accommodation prices in the city center set you back, then try looking in Tromsdalen. This is one of the best areas to stay in Tromso if you’re on a budget as it’s close to the center but is more wallet-friendly.
Downtown Tromso is another popular area for tourists. This is a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Tromso for nightlife as it’s full of enough cafes, bars and restaurants that you’ll be busy for days.
If you’re not interested in Tromso’s nightlife, then you might enjoy areas that are more isolated. Traveling to Tromso is about nature, so if you want to be in the middle of it, then look for accommodation in Sommaroy. This pristine, isolated area is popular for travelers looking for the chance to relax in natural surroundings.
Another area to check out if you’re looking to be out in nature is Kvaloya. This area is close to Tromso but offers the isolation and lack of light pollution that will give you an unobstructed view of the northern lights.
Tromso’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
If you’re ready for the trip of a lifetime and want to find the best places to stay in Tromso during your trip, then start looking in these areas.
Tromsoya is the main island and it’s where most of the shops, restaurants, and museums are located. This makes it the best area in Tromso to stay in if you want convenient access to food and entertainment. It’s also close to other popular areas in Tromso, and only a short ride from the best places to view the northern lights!
When you’re staying in Tromso, you’ll probably want to see the northern lights. But that doesn’t mean you should miss out on everything else that this cool city has to offer. Make sure you explore the attractions around the town during the day, before heading away from the city lights to watch nature’s light show.
Tromsoya is also the ideal place to base yourself if you want to spend most of your time outside the city because you’ll find lots of options for tours and activities.
Best Hotel in Tromsoya: Enter Amalie Hotel
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Tromso for families, this hotel is the ideal choice. It’s close to all the best attractions in the city as well as to several restaurants and shops. And the hotel offers a tour desk, a terrace, and multilingual staff for your convenience.
Each room has air-conditioning, a fridge, a private bathroom, and a coffee maker and they come in a range of sizes to suit every travel group.
Best Airbnb in Tromsoya: A Cottage in Tromso
Located within five minutes’ walk of the center of town in one of Tromso’s best neighborhoods, this cottage would suit one or two guests. It has amazing views of the mountains and includes a shared bathroom.
A Cottage in Tromso is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Tromsoya: Tromso Activities Hostel
This hostel in Tromso focuses on offering budget accommodation in the middle of the city. It’s mostly designed for young travelers and offers a whole roster of different activities and tours that you can join during your trip.
It’s also a great place to meet other travelers and provides rooms that are comfortable and suitable for a short or longer stay.
Tromso Activities Hostel is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Tromsoya
- Go shopping in the main pedestrian area and pick up some souvenirs of your trip.
- Explore the local cuisine and some foreign dishes in as many of the local restaurants as possible.
- Explore the fascinating history of the region at the Polar Museum and gain a deeper appreciation for those first settlers.
- Head over to see the Arctic Cathedral, an architecturally and visually stunning building that’s probably the most amazing in Tromso.
- Book a dog sledding or hiking tour or get information on the best places to ski and see the Northern lights.
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Learn More Now!Visiting Tromso can get a little expensive, particularly if you’re staying in the city center. But if you’re looking for the best area in Tromso to stay in on a budget, this is a good alternative. There are several good Tromso accommodation options in this part of the city, and it’s close enough to the center to still be convenient.
Tromsdalen is located across from the harbor and it’s within walking distance of the city center. You just take the bridge across when you’re hungry or feel like doing some shopping.
There are also several attractions and interesting activities that you can do while you’re in this part of the city. But mostly, when you stay in this area you’ll be focused on the experience of having nature all around you.
Best Airbnb in Tromsdalen: Breathtaking Panoramic View Apartment
The views from this apartment will make you think that you’ve died and gone to heaven. Couple that with the convenient location, close to all the best neighborhoods to stay in Tromso, it’s a great choice if you want to be close to the city but enjoy being surrounded by nature.
It’s also a brand new, modern apartment and you can actually see the northern lights from the apartment windows or terrace!
Best Hotel in Tromsdalen: Tromso Lodge and Camping
Budget accommodation can be difficult to come by in this city. However, this hotel in Tromsdalen is a great choice for any type of traveler. There’s a bar, BBQ, and sauna on-site as well as skiing facilities for anyone who enjoys winter sports. The rooms are immaculately clean and modern and include private bathrooms.
Best Hostel in Tromsdalen: Tromso City Apartments
If you’re looking for the best neighborhood to stay in Tromso, then you can’t miss out on these apartments. They’re a short walk from the Arctic Cathedral and offer clean, comfortable lodgings with all the amenities included. Free Wi-Fi and dry cleaning on request are included.
Tromso City Apartments is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Tromsdalen
- Visit the beautiful Arctic Cathedral, the northernmost cathedral in the world.
- Take the cable car up the nearby mountain.
- Head across the bridge to the city center for food, clubs, shopping, and entertainment.
- Go to Tromso Apline Center for skiing and other outdoor activities.
Downtown Tromso is a small subjection of Tromsoya and is one of Tromso’s best neighborhoods for all types of travelers. This part of the city is based around Storgata, the main pedestrian walking street, where you’ll find lots of places to eat, shop, and just enjoy everyday life in the city.
Exploring Tromso is great, but if you’re in this part of the world then you really want to get out of the city and explore the natural surrounds. And Downtown Tromso is one of the best places in Tromso to stay for this as many day trips and tours depart from this area.
Best Hostel in Downtown Tromso: Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromso
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Tromso for one night or for a longer visit, then try this budget option. It’s close to the cathedral, offers free Wi-Fi, bicycle rental and a coffee bar.
The hotel is cash-free and serves breakfast every morning as well as a lounge bar where you can have a drink after a long day. The rooms include a private bathroom, desk, and all the facilities you’ll need for your visit.
Best Airbnb in Downtown Tromso: Room
If you’re looking for the best places in Tromso to stay in on a budget, then this a good choice. You’ll have your own private suite, with a separate entrance and private bathroom and eating area. The apartment is located in the upper part of Tromso’s downtown in a quiet area that offers easy access to all the activities the city can offer.
Room is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Downtown Tromso: Thon Hotel Polar
This mid-range hotel is one of the best places in Tromso to stay if you want to be close to everything. It offers free Wi-Fi, an on-site gym, laundry and dry-cleaning service, and rooms with TVs, telephones, and private bathrooms.
The area around the hotel has a vibrant nightlife, so you can head out for a drink and some socializing in the early hours of the night.
Thon Hotel Polar is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Downtown Tromso
- Book a tour to see the northern lights, go skiing, or do other activities out in nature.
- Take advantage of the great dining options to try some of the local food.
- Go shopping for souvenirs or warmer clothes to keep you comfortable in the icy weather.
- Most of this city is walkable, so spend a day on your feet exploring all the sights.
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Buy an eSIM!If you want to be a little out of the city, then Sommaroy is one of the coolest places to stay in Tromso. It’s located just outside of Kvaloya and connected to it by a bridge. This area is about an hour’s drive out of Tromso, but it’s worth it for the stunning natural beauty you’ll enjoy.
This small fishing community is the best neighborhood in Tromso to stay if you want to experience some authentic local culture. It’s also a popular beach destination, with several incredibly beautiful beaches and stunning views over the sea and Senja Island.
If you like outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, you’ll enjoy your time on this island. There aren’t a lot of accommodation options on the island, but if you’re determined to relax outside of the tourist trail, you’ll find one that suits your preferences.
Best Hostel in Sommaroy: Buvik Sea Lodge
This hotel is a little way out of Sommaroy but provides easy access to the island. It offers comfortable rooms that would be suitable for any guest who wants to spend their nights with the ocean lapping at the door.
Best Hotel in Sommaroy: The Sommaroy Arctic Hotel
This is the nicest hotel in the area, which makes it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Tromso for one night or for a longer stay. It offers a swimming pool, private beach, sauna, and free Wi-Fi.
There are 28 rooms available that include all the facilities you’ll need for your visit including private bathrooms and comfortable furnishings.
Best Airbnb in Sommaroy: Tromso Best Westside
Suitable for 5 guests, this is a great choice whether you’re deciding where to stay in Tromso with kids or with a group of friends. You’ll have the entire 2-bedroom loft to yourself and enjoy life-changing views from your windows and from the attached terrace.
The airport is only 45 minutes away by car and the hosts are committed to making your stay as amazing as possible.
Tromso Best Westside is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Sommaroy
- Visit Eide Handel and pick up some of their famous sausages “Eidepølsa” to enjoy on a picnic.
- Go camping and enjoy the unobstructed views of the area’s pristine surroundings.
- Head down to the beach for swimming or just to take in the views.
- Go hiking on one of the many outstanding trails in the area.
- Watch the Northern Lights as they’re meant to be seen.
- Enjoy the perfect relaxation that only comes when you’re out in nature.
- If you’re there in winter, try skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, or any other winter activity you’ve ever wanted to try.
If you want to stay in a more remote location where you can see the northern lights in all their glory, then check out the area around Kvaloya. This is the hands-down best neighborhood in Tromso to stay for natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
Kvaloya is just a few minutes from Tromsoya by bridge and there are a huge range of activities going on in this part of the world.
Whether you want to go on dog sledding tours, skiing, or just want to experience Tromso’s famous natural landscape, this area is ideal. And despite its isolation, there are great accommodation options in the area whether you’re deciding where to stay for your first time or are on a repeat trip.
Best Hostel in Kvaloya: Yggdrasiltunet Farm Hotel
If you’re looking for the best area in Tromso to stay in for an authentic local experience, then this is a good choice. This lovely farm is about an hour from the center of Tromso and is run by friendly hosts. It’s close to the sea, the mountains, and fjord and is the ideal base if you enjoy outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.
Best Airbnb in Kvaloya: Splendid Room for Two
If you’re looking for the coolest places to stay in Tromso, this option is ideal. Suitable for 2 guests, you can stay on the first floor of a 3-bedroom apartment with a kitchen and amazing views of the mountain and the sea.
This room offers easy access to nature and to the bus that will take you right to the Tromso city center. You will also have access to the living room and kitchen and share them with your hosts.
Splendid Room for Two is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Kvaloya: Sjotun Brygge
No Tromso neighborhood guide would be complete without this inn. It offers comfort as well as access to all the best snow sports in the regions. There are a range of provided amenities including laundry facilities, car rental, and a lovely terrace where you can sit and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Sjotun Brygge is one of our favourites in Tromso but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Kvaloya
- Enjoy the unobstructed view of the night sky and the northern lights.
- Go sledding in pristine snow and the stunningly beautiful natural landscape.
- Go on a dog sledding tour.
- Head into the main parts of Tromso for meals and to see the local attractions.
- Go hiking in the mountains.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Tromso
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Tromso and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts On Where To Stay in Tromso
This Tromso neighborhood guide will help you find places to stay that suit your budget and the activities you want to enjoy while you’re in the city. After you have that part of your trip sorted out, all you have to do is rug up and enjoy the unique natural landscapes and activities.
And make sure you take lots of pictures too, so you can show your friends back home what they’re missing out on.
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