Getting There & Away: Tromso

Air Travel

Tromsø Airport TOS

Tromsø Airport, Langnes (TOS) the main airport. It serves both domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway to the city and region.

Airport Info

Domestic: SAS, Norwegian, and Widerøe operate frequent flights within Norway.
International: Seasonal direct flights connect Tromsø to various European hubs (London Gatwick, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Frankfurt, Helsinki).
Direct flights from North America or Asia unavailable; connect via Oslo or European hubs.

Seasonal Flight Availability

Flight frequency significantly during peak winter (Northern Lights season, typically December-March) and peak summer (Midnight Sun season, June-July). Prices substantially higher during these periods.

When to Fly

High Season (Winter/Summer): Increased flights, higher prices.
Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Prices lower.
Use Dollar Flight Club for deals and Skyscanner for comparisons.

Airport Facilities

Cafes, duty-free shop, car rental desks (Avis, Hertz, Europcar). Free Wi-Fi.

Airport Bus

Airport Express Bus (Flybussen) to hotels/city center (20-30 min). Local Route 42 cheaper.

Other Transfers

Taxis available outside terminal (NOK 200-300 to city center). Car rental at airport for flexibility. Compare options with DiscoverCars.com.

Ground Transport Options

Train & Bus Connections

No train connections to Tromsø. Closest train station in Narvik (connects to Sweden).
Long-distance buses from Narvik (Arctic Route) and northern Finland/Sweden (seasonal).
No direct land border crossings to Tromsø.
Land travel less common for direct arrival.

Self-Driving Considerations

Valid national license, International Driving Permit (IDP) recommended for non-EU/EEA.
Roads well-maintained. Winter: studded/winter tires mandatory Nov 1-Apr 30. 4WD recommended.
Wildlife (moose, reindeer) on roads, especially dawn/dusk. Headlights on always.
Mountain passes may close due to heavy snow. Check road conditions.

Land Transportation Comparison

Bus

Economical, scenic views, no driving stress. Limited schedule, longer travel time. Cost: NOK 400-600. Duration: 4 hours (from Narvik).

Rental Car

Flexibility, freedom to explore the region. Expensive, winter driving challenges, parking fees. Cost: NOK 800-1500+/day + fuel. Duration: 4 hours (from Narvik).

Border Crossing

No direct land border crossings connect to Tromsø. Most land travel would originate from neighboring Sweden or Finland, less common for direct arrival.

Sea/River Arrivals

Coastal Ferry Services

Sea travel a scenic and traditional way to approach Tromsø, especially via the coastal ferry.

Hurtigruten

The Norwegian Coastal Voyage, Hurtigruten, calls at Tromsø daily.
Popular way to arrive from other coastal towns, through stunning fjords.
Significant port of call for northbound and southbound journeys.

Cruise Ships & Terminals

Tromsø a popular port of call for international cruise ships, specifically during the summer months.

Arrivals & Access

Cruise passengers experience the city during day excursions.
Immigration: Standard checks for international cruise arrivals. Domestic Hurtigruten no additional checks.
Terminals: Hurtigruten terminal conveniently near city center. Easy access to taxis/buses.

River Transportation

River transportation not applicable for Tromsø, as it a coastal city on an island and no rely on major river systems for transport.

Not Relevant

Coastal city on an island.
No river transport for intra-city travel.
Focus on sea and land options for arrival.

Port Connections

The Hurtigruten terminal conveniently near the city center. This for easy access to taxis and public buses for onward travel to your accommodation.

Onward Travel

Easy access to taxis and public buses from Hurtigruten terminal.
Walking distance to many city center accommodations.
Cruise ship terminals also easy access to the city.

Departure Information

No separate exit fees or taxes for flights (generally included in ticket price).
Domestic flights: arrive 1.5-2 hours before scheduled departure.
International flights: 2-3 hours. Check in online if airline allows.

Airport facilities for departing travelers: Cafes, duty-free shops, limited retail.
Security checks efficient but have queues during peak hours.
Confirm baggage drop-off procedures.

Travel Tips

Travel Smart

Tromsø Airport (TOS) main gateway. Book flights in advance for peak seasons. Utilize Flybussen or local bus for transfers.

Getting There & Away