Tromsø, Norway Cruise Port Guide & Information - Maps, Bus Info, Attractions, & More
Tromso, a vibrant city in northern Norway, has become an increasingly popular destination for cruise ship visitors. Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromso offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting arctic adventures. This comprehensive guide aims to help cruise passengers navigate their arrival, explore the city efficiently, and make the most of their time in this captivating Norwegian gem. From transportation tips to must-see attractions, we'll cover everything you need to know for a memorable visit to Tromso.
About Tromso, Norway
Tromso, located 350 km north of the Arctic Circle, is the largest city in northern Norway. It is a lively university town known for its breathtaking fjords, mountains, and opportunities to view the northern lights in winter. Tromso has a long history as a starting point for Arctic expeditions and a center for hunting and fishing. Today, it is a hub for education, research, and tourism in the High North.
The city's compact downtown is easy to explore on foot, with a charming mix of historic wooden houses, modern architecture, and lively cafes and pubs. Tromso's unique location and geography make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities ranging from hiking and kayaking in summer to dog sledding and aurora chasing in winter.
Culturally, Tromso is known for its vibrant music and arts scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. It is also an excellent base for learning about the indigenous Sami culture of Northern Scandinavia.
Tromso City Center Map | Tromso Island Map
Where is the Tromso Cruise Port Located?
Tromso has two cruise terminals:
Tromso Cruise Port: Located right in the heart of the city, this terminal is primarily used by small expedition ships and ferries. It is within walking distance of downtown attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Breivika Terminal: Located about 4 km north of the city center, this is the main terminal for most cruise ships, as they cannot fit under the Tromso Bridge to reach the city center port. The facility has a small tent for luggage pickup but no permanent terminal building.
At both terminals, cruise passengers will find taxis and shore excursion buses waiting to transport them to their destinations. Public buses also stop near the port areas.
How to Get to the Tromso City Center from the Cruise Port
If your ship docks at the Tromso Cruise Port, you'll be steps away from the city center. Simply walk off the ship and explore the charming downtown area on foot.
From the Breivika Terminal, your options include:
Taxi: Taxis queue up outside the terminal to take passengers to the city center, airport, or other destinations. Fares to downtown are cheaper than cruise line transfers, but waits can be up to 20 minutes during busy periods.
Public Bus: Bus routes 26 and 28 connect the Breivika terminal to the city center, with a stop right outside the port area. Purchase tickets on board with a credit card or via the Troms Billett app. Note that city buses do not have luggage racks.
Shore Excursion Bus: If you have a shore excursion booked, meet your tour bus in the designated area next to the taxi stand.
Public Transportation in Tromso
Tromso has an efficient and easy to use public bus system. Buses are modern and comfortable, with digital displays and audio announcements for upcoming stops. Drivers typically speak good English and are happy to assist passengers with route information.
Key bus routes for cruise visitors:
City Center (Sentrum): Routes 20, 24, 26, 28, and 42 from the Breivika terminal, and many other routes within the city.
Arctic Cathedral: Bus 26 or 28 from the city center or Breivika terminal. The bus stops right next to the iconic church.
Fjellheisen Cable Car: Bus 26 or 28 from the city center or Breivika terminal. Disembark at the "Fjellheisen" stop, a few minutes' walk from the cable car base station.
Tromso Airport (Tromso Lufthavn): Bus routes 24, 26, and 42 connect the city center and Breivika terminal to Tromso Airport.
Bus tickets can be purchased on board using a credit card (no cash) or via the Troms Billett smartphone app. Single ride fares are 50 NOK for adults, 25 NOK for children and seniors.
If you plan to use the bus frequently, consider buying a 24-hour pass (100 NOK) or a Tromso Pass from the Tourist Information Center, which includes unlimited bus travel and admission to popular attractions.
View timetables and more bus information here.
What is the Tromso Pass?
The Tromso Pass is a convenient sightseeing card that gives visitors access to some of Tromso's most popular attractions, along with public transportation. Available in several versions, the pass covers entry to must-see landmarks like the Arctic Cathedral, Polar Museum, and the Tromso Cable Car, and includes bus tickets for easy travel around the city. With options designed for day-trippers, families, and culture enthusiasts, the Tromso Pass is a great way to save time and money while exploring this Arctic destination.
How to Get to the Arctic Cathedral and Fjellheisen Cable Car
Two of Tromso's most iconic attractions, the Arctic Cathedral and Fjellheisen Cable Car, are located across the Tromso Sound from the city center. To reach them:
Bus: Take bus routes 26 or 28 from the city center or Breivika terminal. Both stop right next to the Arctic Cathedral. For the Cable Car, get off at the "Fjellheisen" stop, then walk a few minutes to the base station.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in the city center and at the cruise terminals. The ride to the Arctic Cathedral takes about 5-10 minutes, and the Cable Car is a few minutes further.
Walk: To reach the Arctic Cathedral, you can walk across the Tromso Bridge, a 1.6 km span with a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle path. Enjoy stunning views of the city and fjord along the way. The Cable Car is quite far to reach on foot from the city center, but you could walk there from the Arctic Cathedral if desired.
Keep in mind that the Fjellheisen Cable Car is very popular with cruise ship passengers. To avoid long waits, try to arrive early in the day or visit during the evening (It's a lovely spot to watch the midnight sun from). If there are multiple cruise ships in port, lines can exceed 2 hours.
Things to Do in Tromso
Tromso offers a wide range of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities. Below are some top recommendations for cruise visitors.
Click here to view shore excursions available in Tromso, Norway.
Fjellheisen Cable Car
Take in breathtaking panoramic views over Tromso and the surrounding fjords and mountains from this modern cable car.
Arctic Cathedral
Marvel at the striking architecture and beautiful stained glass of this iconic church. Attend a midnight sun or northern lights concert if your visit coincides with a performance.
Polar Museum
This fascinating museum chronicles Tromso's long history of the sealing and whaling industries, polar research, and famous local arctic explorers like Roald Amundsen.
Polaria
This unique aquarium and educational center features bearded seals, an arctic aquarium, and interactive exhibits about the polar regions. Don't miss one of the daily seal feedings.
Perspektivet Museum
This museum showcases the art, culture and heritage of Northern Norway, with emphasis on Sami and Kven culture, and the science of the northern lights.
Chase the Northern Lights
In winter, Tromso is a prime destination for aurora viewing. Join a tour to view spots like Lake Prestvannet or Telegrafbukta Beach.
Conclusion
Tromso is a captivating destination that appeals to cruisers interested in history, culture, natural beauty and soft Arctic adventures. While the city has two cruise ports, both are well-equipped to welcome visitors, with good public transportation and tour services. Most of Tromso's top attractions are easily accessible by bus or taxi, making it possible to see the highlights even if your ship is only in port for a day. The convenient Tromso Pass bundles transportation and attractions for easy sightseeing. With a spirit of Nordic hospitality and some of Norway's most stunning Arctic scenery, Tromso leaves visitors enchanted and eager to return. We hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in this unforgettable corner of Northern Norway!
