Tromsø in November: Things to Do, Seasonal Tips, & More!

Are you looking to visit Tromsø in November? If so, this guide is for you!

November is a perfect time to visit Tromsø if you want to dodge some of the end-of-year crowds and still have plenty to do (it is when whale watching starts). I detail the best things to do during November in Tromsø, including popular activities.

At the end of the guide, I also answer some FAQs and give some of my own tips to help make your November trip to Tromsø a memorable one!

Tromsø Weather in November

As you’ll be traveling to Tromsø at the start of winter, you can expect temperatures to be pretty cold already. Average temperatures range from -4°C to 1°C (24.8°F to 33.8°F) so they frequently fall below freezing.

Snowfall levels are a lot higher than in October, ranging from 16.4 cm to 27.5 cm (6.4 inches to 10.8 inches), so you can expect to see more snow on the ground. This is especially the case by the end of the month!

During this time of year, Tromsø typically encounters frequent cloud cover, and the weather can be very unpredictable, so keep that in mind. This can impact northern lights viewing.

Best Things to Do Tromsø in November

1. Go whale-watching from Tromsø.

November marks the start of the whale-watching season in Northern Norway, which typically runs until the end of January (I would almost argue that it ends in the middle of January anymore, however).

During this time, you can spot humpback whales and orcas in the waters surrounding Tromsø.

There are plenty of great whale-watching tours departing from the city, but this one from Brim Explorer on an electric catamaran is easily the most popular (and ethical).

The tours typically depart early in the morning. This is to ensure that you’ll reach the whale feeding grounds (in Skjervøy!) in time to enjoy several hours of polar daylight. You can see additional tips for whale watching in Tromsø here.

>> Click here to check whale-watching tour rates and availability

2. Experience the polar night.

The polar night season takes place every year from late November to mid-January. During this time, the sun doesn’t rise at all, and there’s only a subtle twilight light throughout certain hours of the day (typically 9 am – 2 pm).

While dark days may seem a bit dreadful, the dark days create the coziest atmosphere in Tromsø!

You can peruse the streets (which will have lights across them), wait around the harbor for the northern lights, and grab a hot chocolate at a cafe (by candlelight).

If you want to experience the polar night, you’ll need to visit on or after the 27th of November.

3. Enjoy the Arctic Pride festival.

As the most Northern Pride event in the world, visiting Tromsø Arctic Pride is a fantastic experience. It takes place annually in mid-November and aims to promote inclusivity, educate the public, and spread awareness of the issues facing the LGBTQ+ community.

In addition to the official opening ceremony, you can expect parades, workshops, panel discussions, information stands, and more. During the festival, there’s often a film showing and quizzes too.

Most of the events are free of charge at Tromsø Arctic Pride, although some do require a fee. There are also age restrictions on some events.

4. Head out on a hunt for the northern lights.

November is a great time of year to spot the northern lights in Tromsø. The Aurora Borealis season runs from September to early April, but November’s shorter daylight hours offer more viewing opportunities.

On the other hand, regular cloud coverage can factor into things, so please be prepared for that!

From the 27th, the polar night also takes place (where the sun doesn’t rise), so you can spot the northern lights a little earlier in the day.

Aurora tours are one of the main reasons people travel to Tromsø, and you’ll have an experienced guide who will take you to all the best viewing spots.

Alternatively, head up to Storsteinen for viewing nearby (and it can be reached by Fjellheisen cable car).

>> Click here to check northern lights tour rates and availability

5. Go to Ordkalotten (Tromsø International Literature Festival).

Another awesome event taking place in November is the Tromsø International Literature Festival. Also known as Ordkalotten, this event typically focuses on two main profiles (one author who is living and one who has passed).

Unlike other literature festivals, Ordkalotten doesn’t focus on book launches and instead focuses on Indigenous people such as the Sami. It also emphasizes Norway’s connections with Finland, Iceland, and Sweden.

This event is only growing in popularity, and sells out quickly! So if you’re looking for something unique to do in Tromsø, Ordkalotten may be for you!

6. Watch the lighting of Christmas Street.

If you’re looking to embrace the festive season, then November offers ample opportunities.

First of all, the lighting of ‘Christmas Street’ (Storgata and nearby) takes place during mid-November, when the city will be adorned with twinkling lights, decorations, and garlands.

Tromsø becomes even more beautiful than usual, and you’ll feel like you’re wandering through a festive Hallmark movie!

If the first Sunday of Advent falls in November, the lighting of the Christmas tree will take place. However, this day can also fall in early December.

7. Wander around the Christmas market.

The Christmas markets in Tromsø take place from mid-November until around Christmas. While wandering about Stortorget (where the market is located), you can take in the festive atmosphere, vibrant decorations, and delicious smells that all European Christmas markets are so famous for.

As you explore the stalls, pick up a hot drink to keep you warm (hot chocolate and mulled wine ‘gløgg’ are both excellent options)!

8. Try some tasty Arctic cuisine.

While the days become increasingly darker, use this opportunity to venture into some of Tromsø’s top restaurants!

I think Tromsø has such a cool little restaurant scene, and there is nothing better to do in between tours than explore it!

If you’re looking to try local delicacies, then lutefisk (dried cod), ribbe (pork belly), and fårikål (mutton and cabbage stew) are great options.

I had the most delicious fårikål at Art Cafe Tromsø before, but it was just a daily special so there is no guarantee that it is on the standard menu (but worth checking).

Popular restaurants in Tromsø include Fiskekompaniet, Mathallen Tromsø, Full Steam, and Skarven Kro. If you’d prefer something more international, then there are some fantastic pizza and tapas restaurants in the city. I also love a newer addition to the scene called Bread & Wine.

Just keep in mind that dining out in Tromsø can be expensive, so this will all depend on your budget.

Activities It Is Too Early For

While there is plenty to do in Tromsø in November, there are some activities that are simply not available… yet! They are:

• Tromsø Ice Domes (open December 10)
• Snowmobiling (starts in December for Camp Tamok and January in the Lyngen Alps)
• Dog-sledding (actually starts middle of the month if the snow has arrived)

What to Pack for November in Tromsø

This is the month when I start suggesting to bring some pretty heavy gear to Tromsø with you! A few things I recommend bringing are:

• Heavy parka (I like ones that are a bit longer as they keep your thighs warm as well)
• Mittens or gloves (I prefer mittens as they are warmer)
• Snowboots and wool socks
• Wool sweater
• Thermals (I love Kari Traa’s base layers)
• Mobile power bank (many phones drain in power with colder weather)
• Wool hat (I like ones from Haddock, a Henningsvær brand – you can purchase at Intersport in Tromsø if you want to wait until you get there)

Tips for Visiting Tromsø in November

• If you’re looking to try out some winter activities, mid to late November may be the best time to visit, as snowfall levels increase towards the end of the month. This is when dog sledding starts.
• As Tromsø encounters a lot of cloud cover, it may be best to opt for a northern lights tour, as your guide will know the best places to spot the Aurora Borealis. Aim to book one your first night so you can rebook if you don’t see it!
• Accommodation is expensive so some people prefer to stay slightly out of Tromsø. Bus services run to the city center so you’ll still be well-connected.
• Popular activities such as whale-watching trips, northern lights tours, and Sami experiences can get booked out quickly, so it’s best to book these in advance.

Tromsø in November FAQ

Is November a good time to visit Tromsø?

November is a fantastic time of year to visit Tromsø. This is when the polar night starts, so you’ve got a much better chance of spotting the northern lights.

This month also marks the start of the whale-watching season in Northern Norway, and the Christmas lights and markets are open from mid-November.

Can you ski in Tromsø in November?

The alpine skiing and ski touring season typically starts in late November and runs until April/June, although this all depends on the local snow conditions.

Snow levels vary from year to year, so the season may start earlier or later, depending on the ground conditions. As a result, you’ll want to check this in advance before you book.

Is Tromsø light in November?

At the start of the month, the sun rises after 8 am and sets at around 2:30 pm. Towards mid to late November, it rises later and sets before 12:30 pm.

The polar night comes into play at the end of November when the sun won’t rise at all. Therefore, you will have minimal daylight (it will be more like a twilight).

Can you see the northern lights in Norway in November?

The northern lights season typically runs from mid-September to early April in Norway, so you’ve got a great chance of spotting the aurora!

November is a great time of year to spot the northern lights as the sun sets early. Not to mention, the polar night creeps in towards the end of the month in Northern Norway.

Do know that November can have heavy cloud coverage so while it is possible to see it, the aurora’s visibility is very dependent on clear skies (which happens slightly less in November than in other months).

Where to Stay in Tromsø

Arctic Homes Tromsø Residence (Luxury)

Arctic Homes is one of the most luxurious properties in Tromsø. This spacious apartment sleeps up to 9 and is great for those who want more space!

With three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, a spacious lounge, and a sun terrace, it has everything you could need. The views are breathtaking too.

Clarion Hotel The Edge (Mid-range)

Clarion Hotel The Edge is a popular hotel in Tromsø. It’s set in a great location and offers modern rooms, many of which feature fantastic city views.

If you stay here, you’ll benefit from the hotel’s incredible facilities. These include a rooftop bar, restaurant, fitness center, and living room bar. Breakfast is also included.

Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromsø (Budget)

Those on a budget should check out Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromsø. This hotel offers some of the cheapest rooms in the city and is in a great location for sightseeing.

There are 192 rooms to choose from and these sleep 2-3 people making it a great option for couples. There’s also a 24-hour lobby shop which has drinks and snacks.

Visiting Tromsø in November is an excellent choice but do prepare your trip ahead of time and give yourself enough days to see the aurora if the weather does not place nicely during your trip (which can happen in November).

More Month-by-Month Guides

• Tromsø in January
• Tromsø in February
• Tromsø in March
• Tromsø in September
• Tromsø in October
• Tromsø in December

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