Most flights arrive in Tromsø in the evening, which is paradoxically the best news for you - you can see your first Northern Lights from the airplane window, so don't forget to look! You can use your mobile phone, which is more sensitive than the human eye, so I recommend trying it even if it may seem that you can't see anything yet. However, if you land earlier, take the time to wander through the colorful city center, breathe in the frosty harbor air, and soak up the atmosphere of the "Paris of the North." After picking up the car, there are two options: either head straight out on your first Aurora hunt based on the current forecast and clear sky, or take your time to buy supplies and settle into a cozy Nordic home.

Parking: Download the EasyPark app, and wherever you park, be sure to check if parking is paid - it is paid in most places in the city.

Explore Tromsø and its surroundings. Take a drive or walk to the iconic viewpoint overlooking Tromsø, see the Arctic Cathedral, visit the ice bar, and if you're interested, you can visit the city center and maybe some souvenir shops. 

Choose today's itinerary based on the time of year you're visiting Tromsø. If you're here from roughly the beginning of November to the end of January, definitely take the chance to go on an unforgettable whale watching cruise. It's during this time that orcas, humpback whales, fin whales, and other species head to the waters north of Tromsø to feed. Of course, spotting wildlife can never be guaranteed, but the cruise through the Arctic fjords itself is an extraordinary experience. So, I 100% recommend it. 

If you're traveling outside the main whale season, dedicate today to a trip to the dramatic island of Senja. Head to the Brensholmen ferry terminal early in the morning and take the ferry over to Botnhamn. On the island, you'll find fishing villages, white sandy beaches, sharp mountain peaks, and some of the most beautiful scenic roads in Northern Norway. Adjust your plans according to the weather, road conditions, and available daylight.

One of the most powerful experiences that the north offers - dog sledding. If you decide on this adrenaline experience, you will go to the snowy wilderness, where you will only hear the breath of eager dogs and the hiss of sleds gliding on the snow. Those of you who prefer a calmer pace can use this time to explore the picturesque Arctic villages and hidden fjords in the area, where the mountains are reflected in the icy sea. And the most active ones can handle everything :-) At the end of the day, you can warm up in a traditional Nordic sauna, which is an ideal way to relax after a day spent outdoors. And in the evening, what else but watching the Northern Lights.

In the morning, you'll hike up to Ørnfløya, a popular viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of Sommarøy, the surrounding islands, and the endless horizon of the Norwegian Sea. The route to the top is short but provides one of the most beautiful views in the area. Afterwards, you will also visit the fishing village of Sommaroy, and if you feel like it, we can stop at the renowned Bryggejente cafe.

Enter the fascinating world of Sami culture, where you will have the opportunity to meet the indigenous people of northern Norway – the Sami. You will spend the day at a traditional reindeer farm, where you will learn more about their life, traditions, and unique relationship with animals and nature. At the farm, you will meet local herders, have the opportunity to feed the reindeer and learn about their breeding in this harsh but beautiful environment. One of the highlights of the day will also be a reindeer sleigh ride. An authentic lunch, prepared in the traditional way, also awaits you at the farm, and you will have the opportunity to listen to stories about the life of the Sami, their culture and traditions.

Today, only the journey home awaits you. Most people leave relatively early in the morning. If there's still time, we can take one last walk through the center of Tromsø.