Tromsø

Tromsø, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Arctic," is one of the best places in Norway—and indeed the world—to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). This vibrant city, rich in culture and surrounded by stunning landscapes, offers an incredible experience for travelers seeking the magical dance of the Aurora.

Tromsø lies above the Arctic Circle, providing excellent visibility for the Northern Lights, especially during the winter months. The city is not only a prime Aurora viewing spot but also a cultural hub with museums, festivals, and local cuisine. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø is from September to April, with peak visibility from December to February when the nights are longest.

A visit to Tromsø for the Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience, blending breathtaking natural phenomena with rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, Tromsø offers something for everyone looking to explore the Arctic magic.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

1%

There is a 1% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Tromsø area (forecast for 28 April 2025 at 10:12am UTC)

Kp 0.67

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

  • 0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
  • 3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
  • 6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
  • 8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.
Bz 4 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced auroral activity.

Density 2.22 p/cm3

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimeter (p/cm3).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm3.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 440.5 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Snow

1°C Feels like -5°C

High
3°C
Low
-3°C
  • Precipitation: 100%
  • Cloud cover: 100%
  • Wind: 6 km/h
  • Rain: 5mm
  • Snow: 16mm

Moon

Waxing crescent

  • Sun rises at: 3:35am
  • Sun sets at: 9:47pm
  • Moon rises at: 2:33am
  • Moon sets at: 1:00am

Book an amazing adventure in Tromsø

  • Free cancellation

    Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso

    4.7 (268)

    4 hours From £110.04

    Cruise with us on our hybrid-electric boat and visit a local fjord with some surprising sights and stories. Amplify your experience with unspoiled nature and wildlife. From fish below to birds above. Step ashore in an old fishing facility and learn about the traditions and lifeline of many Norwegian coastal towns. Our friendly guides will share stories and knowledge about local culture, history and nature while on the lookout for wildlife. With our underwater drone we will explore the hidden world underneath the surface of the ocean. Our on board cafe has a selection of local food and drinks available for purchase.

  • Free cancellation

    Husky Sledding Self-Drive Adventure in Tromso

    4.9 (672)

    4 hours From £247.40

    You will be driving your own sled and team of dogs in pairs, an experienced guide will lead your tour on the trail (group size is 20 guests maximum) - Drive your own team of huskies, in pairs you will share control of a dog sled and team of 5-6 Alaskan Huskies - Training is provided on how to control your sled and an experienced guide will lead your tour on the trail - 70-80 minutes of dog sledding in the Arctic wilderness - Afterwards, enjoy cake and a warm drink in the Lavvu - All necessary equipment to keep you safe and warm is provided. Minimum age 7 years Join us for the experience of a lifetime, mushing your own team of dogs across the Arctic wilderness. Meet our kennel of 130 beautiful Alaskan Huskies. These are the running dogs of the Arctic, born and bred with a passion to pull. You will have plenty of opportunities to swap between driver and passenger throughout the trip, as well as a chance to cuddle the dogs once back at the kennel.

  • Free cancellation

    Aurora Hunt Tour with Wandering Owl- Professional Photos Included

    4.8 (1950)

    5 - 8 hours From £192.01

    Come with us for your Aurora hunt for an amazing and ethical experience underneath the Aurora Borealis. Leave the light pollution in Tromsø behind and travel into the Arctic wilderness. During this activity, our small team of Aurora guides check the forecasts & use local knowledge to decide on the best place to chase the Northern Lights. When we find the best spot we will dress in warm thermal suits and boots, make a cosy campfire, and enjoy a homemade meal. You'll be shown how to use your camera, photograph the Aurora, and our guides will take photos of you, which are provided for free in web-sized resolution after the tour. Relax by the fire with hot chocolate before being returned back to Tromsø island to your hotel. Though there is never a guarantee of seeing this phenomenon, our experienced team of Aurora Hunters will do their best, every night of the season.

  • Free cancellation Likely to sell out

    Northern Lights Minibus Chase

    4.8 (1039)

    7 - 10 hours From £147.70

    Tromsø’s Premier Aurora Experience Dive into the Arctic’s magic with Tromsø's leading Northern Lights tour. Why are we different? Aurora Portrait Mastery: More than just a sighting – we craft perfect Aurora portraits. A cherished keepsake with loved ones set against the mesmerizing Northern Lights. ⭐ Proven Excellence: Boasting nearly 2,000 'Excellent' TripAdvisor reviews and a place in its Hall of Fame. Trusted by over 45,000 guests since 2012. 90% Success Rate: Witness the Northern Lights dance with confidence, thanks to our unmatched hit rate. Ultimate Arctic Comfort: Focus on the auroras in our top-tier winter gear, designed for warmth and comfort. Experience the Arctic with Tromsø’s Aurora masters. Memories await; make them monumental with us. Secure your once-in-a-lifetime slot today. Tour conducted by us, or our premium partners that have identical tours.

  • Free cancellation

    Northern Lights Tour with Hot Food and Drinks in Tromso

    4.9 (32)

    7 hours From £136.62

    Treat your eyes to the spetacle of the dazzling northern lights Get the best chance to see the aurora borealis with a local guide Admire the stunning Arctic scenery of mountains, fjords, and valleys Keep warm with a bonfire, thermal suits, hot drinks, and a warm meal Receive photos taken by your guide during the tour free of charge

  • Free cancellation

    Tromsø: Summer Fjord Tour for Cruise Ship Visitors

    5.0 (3)

    5 hours From £124.81

    Discover the beauty of the Arctic countryside on a 5-6 hour sightseeing tour in Tromsø. The tour takes you to the impressive fjords of the area.

Places to check out around Tromsø

Discover Museums, Restaurants, Parks and more…

Other places in Norway

AltaLofoten

See also

Aurora ForecastPlanning Your Northern Lights AdventureNorthern Lights PhotographyScience Of The AuroraNorthern Lights Playlist

Agenturet Øl og Vinbar

Agenturet Øl og Vinbar is a Beer Bar and Wine Bar at Sjøgata 12, 9008 Tromsø, Norge

Phone: +47 40 47 16 21

What do people think of Agenturet Øl og Vinbar?

4.7

  • Awesome beer and wine selection. They use gas to fill wine bottles so you always get fresh wine! - Ole Georg P

    28 April 2018

  • The food is delish, and a great selection of beers in a very relaxed atmosphere - Ilicco

    22 February 2018

  • Wine........... - Carl H

    31 December 2017

  • New place. Excellent selection of beer & wine. I only tested their beer selection. Norwegian, Belgian (including sours), DK, US, UK etc. Quiet, music turned down, food medium priced *untested - Steinmb

    1 February 2017