Tromsø in October: What to Do, Autumn Tips, & More!

Is visiting Tromsø in October on your bucket list? The month offers a unique experience compared to some of the winter months and this guide will tell you some of the best things to do (and some things you can’t yet do).

Below, you will also find out what the weather is like, what you should pack, and some useful travel tips to help you plan your Tromsø autumn trip.

October in Tromsø can be unpredictable (especially in regards to weather!) but if you plan accordingly and are excited to experience the cultural side of the city, you will leave with some pretty amazing memories!

Tromsø Weather in October

In October, the average temperature ranges from -2°C to 3°C (28.4°F to 37.4°F), which is considerably cooler than September.

Average monthly snowfall levels are also ramping up, ranging from 3.2 cm to 15.9 cm (1.2 inches to 6.2 inches) in October. You can expect more snow towards the end of the month when temperatures continue to drop.

The average monthly rainfall during October is around 85 mm (3.3 inches). As the month goes on, it typically becomes more overcast as well.

Autumn in Tromsø tends to be rainier (meaning more clouds!) than the spring – just something to consider when booking a trip to see the northern lights.

Memorable Things to Do in Tromsø in October

1. Go out searching for the northern lights.

As the days grow shorter, you’ve got a good chance of spotting the northern lights. You can either search for this natural phenomenon independently or head out on a tour with an experienced guide.

I recommend heading out with a guide if you have never seen the lights before as they will show you how they appear to the naked eye and drive you outside the city center to lessen the light pollution!

My favorite northern lights tour in Tromsø is this one with Polar Adventures. They have small minibuses that you’ll meet at their harbor office and your tour will include a small fire, snacks, and a guide who can answer your questions.

But the main reason I love them is that they offer 30% off a second tour if you don’t see them!

So, book your aurora tour at the beginning of your Tromsø trip so you can reschedule for another night if you aren’t lucky enough to spot them!

Just be aware that you’ll need clear skies and Tromsø tends to be more overcast in October (compared to September).

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

2. Enjoy the Insomnia Festival.

Insomnia is an electronic and techno festival that’s popular with music lovers.

Not only is there music but you can dance the night away on the festival’s dance floors. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.

The dates for 2024 are October 17-19.

3. Appreciate the city’s autumn colors.

During October, you can appreciate the city’s autumn foliage. In the surrounding area, you can take in the yellow, orange, and red hues of the native trees.

There’s no better way to do this than by hiking in the Tromsø region. Popular hikes include Brosmetinden, Trehørningen, and Hillesøytoppen, all of which offer jaw-dropping views.

These vibrant hues start showing in September but work their way into October as well, so take advantage of them when they happen! They are short-lived!

4. Enjoy a football match in Tromsø.

Tromsø is home to Tromsø IL currently the most northern top league team in world football.

Playing their home games at the Romssa Arena, games ensure a fun atmosphere, especially when they play their northern rivals Bodø/Glimt in the Battle of Northern Norway derby.

As a relatively successful team in Norway, they regularly qualify to compete in European competitions, so there is a chance to watch them play some of Europe’s biggest teams in October if you are lucky!

Check the schedule for games on the club website, where you can also purchase tickets.

5. Go out on a fjord cruise.

This Arctic Fjord cruise runs between February and October (stopping on the 24th as the boat starts to run whale-watching tours!).

It goes for 4-5 hours and offers you the chance to spot a variety of marine life and other wildlife, including white-tailed sea eagles and reindeer.

Brim Explorer offers a silent catamaran tour on the fjord abroad on their eco-friendly boat and you will get a chance to see the stunning scenery, stop to enjoy some cod liver oil (‘tran’ in Norwegian), and see what their underwater drone can find on the floor of the fjord.

>> Click here to check rates and availability for Brim Explorer’s Arctic cruise

6. Celebrate Halloween in Tromsø.

Halloween takes place on the 31st of October and Tromsø is a great place to celebrate it.

Events include ghost tours, spooky movies, pumpkin picking, and Halloween events/parties, so there’s something for everyone.

Tromsø’s darkening nights and moody vibe only add to the atmosphere!

7. Try some Arctic cuisine.

As the nights get longer and temperatures get colder, it’s only fitting to relax in a cozy restaurant and try some Arctic cuisine.

Traditional Norwegian delicacies include lutefisk (dried cod), fårikal (mutton and cabbage stew), and ribbe (pork belly). I am also a big fan of fiskesuppe (fish soup).

While some of those are more common in other parts of Norway, you can get them almost anywhere during this time of year. I also recommend any type of fish soup you can get your hands on!

Some popular restaurants in Tromsø include Skarven Kro, Fiskekompaniet, Mathallen Tromsø, and Restaurant Skirri. Fiskekompaniet is my favorite (and they offer a lunch menu that is cheaper).

Also, be sure to stop by Full Steam as the restaurant is a combination of traditional Norwegian food and an in-house museum!

8. Visit Tromsø’s museums.

If the weather is cold and dreary, why not spend time exploring the city’s museums?

Popular attractions include the Polar Museum, the Arctic Museum of Norway, the Perspective Museum, and the Troll Museum.

The Polar Museum is especially popular (it is also my favorite), with exhibitions on cultural history and polar expeditions, but the others have something to offer too!

Activities It Is Too Early For

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

• Whale watching (although this year they are starting at the end of the month it seems… otherwise it starts in November)
• Dog-sledding (not enough snow)
• Tromsø Ice Domes (will open in December)
• Snowmobiling (not enough snow)
• Snowshoeing (not enough snow)

What to Pack for October in Tromsø

As temperatures are starting to drop into the minus you’ll need to wrap up warm!

Make sure you pack a warm winter coat, a thick sweater or hoodie, and warm pants (thermals may also be beneficial).

Those who feel the cold will also want to pack a scarf, hat, and gloves. Good-quality hiking boots will be beneficial too!

Tips for Visiting Tromsø in October

• Temperatures get cooler towards the end of the month. If you’re looking for milder temperatures, it’s best to visit at the start of October.
• As cloud cover is increasing in October, give yourself as many chances as possible to spot the northern lights as you’ll need clear skies. Book your first northern lights tour at the very start of your trip just in case you don’t get lucky to see them and need to book a second tour.
• Although snowfall is on its way (usually it starts in October), local ski resorts typically don’t open until November. Winter sports will also be limited due to the lack of snow on the ground.

Tromsø in October FAQ

Is October a good time to visit Tromsø?

October is a great time to visit Tromsø. Not only can you spot the northern lights at this time of year, but you can also enjoy the city’s football derby day and Insomnia Festival.

You should also have some fall colors at the beginning of the month.

Can you see the northern lights in October in Tromsø?

Northern lights season starts in September so you’ve got a good chance of spotting them in October. But do know that this is the rainy season – so clouds are frequent.

Give yourself as many days as possible to see them! Tours are also available to help increase your chances.

Is there snow in Tromsø in October?

Snowfall is very likely in October. Tromsø’s average monthly snowfall ranges from 3.2 cm to 15.9 cm (1.2 inches to 6.2 inches) at this time of year.

How many hours of daylight does Tromsø get in October?

At the start of October, you can expect between 10-11 hours of daylight in Tromsø. Towards the end of the month, this shortens to around 6.5 hours.

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 October is a great choice but do prepare your trip ahead of time and give yourself as many days as possible to combat the cloudy weather if your primary goal is to see the aurora!

More Month-by-Month Guides

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

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