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The finest time to visit Tromso will completely rely on your preferences. Spring can still bring chilly temperatures and snow, but by May, the days start to lengthen, and temperatures become more pleasant. With some luck, you may even be able to catch a glimpse of the aurora in April.
Experiencing daylight for 24 hours is possible if visiting Tromso, Norway in the months of June or July, when the phenomenon of the midnight sun occurs. This season also represents the peak conditions for weather in Tromso annually, as temperatures are at their highest and snow is substantially diminished. Those seeking to enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities will find summer provides the best options for such pursuits in Tromso.
That being said, Tromso has rightfully gained its place as one of the top locations globally to view the Aurora Borealis. If observing the northern lights is your goal, September through March represents the best period to see them in Tromso. Fall is also ideal for whale watching, as there remains sufficient daylight to spot the whales, unlike in winter, when polar night brings 24 hours of darkness.
As is evident, each season comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the best month to visit Tromso for you will rely on your temperature and weather preferences as much as your desire to see the Northern Lights, midnight sun, whales, polar night, or Christmas decorations.
- Tromsø weather by month
- Spring weather in Tromso
- Summer weather in Tromso
- Fall weather in Tromso
- Winter weather in Tromso
At the end of the article, you’ll also find a section where we recommend when to visit Tromso depending on your interests (northern lights, midnight sun, whale-watching, hiking, etc .)
Table of Contents
Tromsø weather by month
Since Tromso is located quite far north, temperatures hover around freezing for much of the year. Even in summer, when temperatures reach their highest point, the weather is mild but not hot.
Regarding precipitation, the weather in Tromsø month-by-month can vary. The fall and winter months bring fairly significant snow and rain, but precipitation levels decrease notably in spring and summer.
A unique factor of Tromso weather is the fluctuating amount of daylight through the year. Tromso’s far northern place creates daylight extremes: 0 hours of daylight in December, yet 24 hours of daylight in June and July.
To help you plan your journey, below is a chart of Tromso temperature and weather by month:
|
Hours with daylight |
1-2 hrs |
7 hrs |
11-12 hrs |
16-17 hrs |
22-23 hrs |
24 hrs |
23-24 hrs |
17-18 hrs |
13 hrs |
9 hrs |
3-4 hrs |
0 hrs |
|
Hours of sunlight |
0 hrs |
1 hrs |
4 hrs |
6 hrs |
7 hrs |
8 hrs |
7 hrs |
6 hrs |
3 hrs |
2 hrs |
0 hrs |
0 hrs |
|
Average low temperature. |
22°F |
21°F |
25°F |
29°F |
37°F |
42°F |
48°F |
46°F |
42°F |
35°F |
29°F |
26°F |
|
Average temperature. |
26°F |
26°F |
29°F |
35°F |
43°F |
48°F |
54°F |
52°F |
47°F |
39°F |
33°F |
30°F |
|
Average high temperature. |
29°F |
30°F |
34°F |
40°F |
50°F |
55°F |
61°F |
59°F |
53°F |
43°F |
36°F |
33°F |
|
Days with precipitation |
13 |
11 |
11 |
11 |
10 |
10 |
11 |
12 |
13 |
15 |
13 |
14 |
|
Average precipitation (rain + snow) |
456 mm |
450 mm |
307 mm |
190 mm |
69 mm |
61 mm |
77 mm |
75 mm |
93 mm |
180 mm |
275 mm |
375 mm |
|
Northern Lights |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Potentially |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Whales |
Yes |
Maybe |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
|
MONTHLY WEATHER IN TROMSO |
||||||||||||
Average temperature in Tromso
The average Tromso temperature by month ranges from a low of 26°F in January and February to a high of 54°F in July. Since the winters are so cold, make sure to pack warm clothing and layers for your visit. Even in summer, having layers and a jacket is helpful for when temperatures decrease.
Average precipitation in Tromso
In regards to the Tromsø weather by month, rain occurs throughout the year, though less frequently in the summer. Snow is possible for most of the year, except from June to August. As for the number of days of precipitation per month, this figure can range from a third to half of every month throughout the year .
Spring weather in Tromso
Although spring in Tromso indicates lengthening days and milder temperatures, snow can typically fall until early May. Furthermore, the weather varies from a low of 29°F in April to a high of 50°F in May, so dress in layers and be prepared to add or remove clothing as needed.
On the bright side, spring presents the best timing to visit Tromso if one wants sufficient daylight for activities without the trouble of adapting to periods of light lasting 24 hours. While days in April contain 16 to 17 hours of daylight, days in May have up to 23 hours of daytime .
April weather in Tromso
Tromso in April may be a fairly cool and snow-covered place, but it’s still worthwhile visiting. After all, as long as the Northern Lights forecast anticipates positively, you’ll have the chance to see the aurora yourself, since April forms the end of Tromso’s Northern Lights season.
As the weather in Tromso in April remains rather cold, expect to encounter snow along with some rain. Still, the increasing hours of daylight and sunshine mean you’ll get to experience the first signs of spring.
- Hours of daylight: 16-17
- Hours of sunshine: 6
- Average low temperature: 29° F
- Average temperature: 35° F
- Average high temperature: 40° F
- Average days with precipitation: 11
- Average precipitation: 190 mm
- Northern Lights: Maybe
- Whales: No
Weather in Tromso in May
Spring comes into its own in Tromso in May. The temperatures warm significantly, and the region gets very little precipitation compared to the rest of the year.
Additionally, evenings become extraordinarily short, since daylight lasts between 22 and 23 hours per day. Regrettably, this substantial amount of daytime makes it impossible to observe the Northern Lights. You also won’t be able to see whales, since May is outside of whale watching season, so this is not the best time to visit Tromso for cetaceans or the “Green Lady.”
Nonetheless, May remains the best time to visit Tromso if wanting to make the most of extended daylight hours, infrequent precipitation, and comparatively elevated temperatures
Summer weather in Tromso
Visiting Tromso in summer provides many benefits. In contrast to the constant darkness of winter, visitors now experience the midnight sun, or 24 hours of daylight.
Furthermore, temperatures peak for the year, even though they don’t quite achieve the identical highs as temperatures in other European cities. Still, this warm yet mild weather means you’ll feel at ease outside without becoming too hot and wet with sweat. The higher temps also make the snow disappear, although the area can still receive a bit of rain.
Overall, summer provides the ideal time of year to visit Tromso for experiencing mild weather, witnessing the unique natural spectacle of the midnight sun, and exploring the great outdoors .
Weather in Tromso in June
There is no place sunnier than Tromso, Norway during the month of June. The midnight sun, which is sunlight for 24 consecutive hours, illuminates the entire month, making this the ideal time to visit Tromso to witness this amazing spectacle. An excellent way to enjoy the reddish golden glow created by the midnight sun is by joining a fjord and wildlife cruise, one of the highest rated excursions in Tromso.
In terms of weather, precipitation throughout the month, on the few days it does occur, will only be rain, so you won’t have to worry about snow.
- Hours of daylight: 24
- Hours of sunshine: 8
- Average low temperature: 42° F
- Average temperature: 48° F
- Average high temperature: 55° F
- Average days with precipitation: 10
- Average precipitation: 61 mm
- Northern Lights: No
- Whales: No
July weather in Tromso
Welcome to Tromso’s warmest calendar month. Yes, the thermometer typically hits approximately 61°F in Tromso in July, but this gentle summer climate, which will likely be cooler than what you`re used to, is ideal for hiking. Rather than having to load liters of water and become drenched in perspiration, you’ll have the ability to enjoy spectacular perspectives from Tromso’s peaks while remaining comparatively cool.
Moreover, visitors can still enjoy plenty of daylight and sunshine in Tromso in July, since daylight ranges between 23 and 24 hours per day. Snow is unlikely, but some rain may occur throughout the month.
- Hours of daylight: 23-24
- Hours of sunshine: 7
- Average low temperature: 48° F
- Average temperature: 54° F
- Average high temperature: 61° F
- Average days with precipitation: 11
- Average precipitation: 77 mm
- Northern Lights: No
- Whales: No
Aug weather in Tromso
August is a busy period in Tromso’s tourist season. As such, accommodations can fill up quickly, so be sure to book a room in one of the top Tromso hotels well ahead.
The daylight hours will shorten during this month, transitioning out of the 24 hours of sunlight experienced previously. However, plenty of sunshine and relatively warm temperatures will still be enjoyed. August also marks the onset of the rainy season, so some showers may have to be endured, but at least there is no risk of snowfall.
While you’ll just miss the midnight sun and Northern Lights season, August remains one of the prime times to visit Tromso for visiting Arctic beaches and camping in Tromso.
- Hours of daylight: 17-18
- Hours of sunshine: 6
- Normal minimum temperature: 46° F
- Average temperature: 52° F
- Average high temperature: 59° F
- Average days with precipitation: 12
- Average precipitation: 75 mm
- Northern Lights: No
- Whales: No
Fall weather in Tromso
If you’re eager to see the Northern Lights in Norway but want to avoid the cold, autumn is the optimal time of year to visit Tromso. The Northern Lights period begins in September, and temperatures are still warm compared to winter, which is ideal for outdoor aurora chasing.
Coincidentally, whale watching season begins in November, so that’s a fantastic month to visit Tromso and see both cetaceans and the aurora. Best of all, nights don’t last as long as in December or January, so there’s still enough daylight to see and do things during the day .
Conditions in Tromso in September
September is the best calendar month to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø for several logical reasons. To start with, darkness is your ally. As the quantity of daylight hours shrinks to 13 each day, the longer evenings imply a higher probability of seeing the aurora.
Secondly, temperatures commence to cool off, but not drastically, so remaining outside for various hours is still rather enjoyable. Lastly, September is the clearest month of the Northern Lights season, since precipitation levels are relatively low.
As such, you should plan to visit Tromsø in September if you’re enthusiastic about seeing the Northern Lights and want to experience them in the best possible conditions.
- Hours of daylight: 13
- Hours of sunshine: 3
- Average low temperature: 42° F
- Average temperature: 47° F
- Average high temperature: 53° F
- Average days with precipitation: 13
- Average precipitation: 93 mm
- Northern Lights: Yes
- Whales: No
Weather in Tromso in October
As Tromso is considered the premier destination for viewing the best Northern Lights displays, tourists flock there throughout the season when the lights appear, such as in October.
The climatic conditions in Tromso in October transition out of summertime mode as the snowy season begins in earnest. Also, precipitation is quite common for nearly half of the month. On the other hand, you’ll benefit from a suitable amount of daylight and sunshine, which is ideal for exploring during the day before going aurora hunting at night.
- Hours of daylight: 9
- Hours of sunshine: 2
- Normal minimum temperature: 35° F
- Average temperature: 39° F
- Average high temperature: 43° F
- Average days with precipitation: 15
- Average precipitation: 180 mm
- Northern Lights: Yes
- Whales: No
Weather in Tromso in November
Travelling to Tromso in November is ideal for both whale spotting and Northern Lights viewing. November marks the beginning of Tromso’s whale watching period, which extends until the start of February.
Moreover, the low hours of daylight and 0 hours of sunshine create the ideal conditions for aurora viewing. Additionally, if you visit Tromso in November, you’ll avoid the chill and 24-hour darkness of the depths of winter.
- Hours of daylight: 3-4
- Hours of sunshine: 0
- Average low temperature: 29° F
- Average temperature: 33° F
- Average high temperature: 36° F
- Average days with precipitation: 13
- Average precipitation: 275 mm
- Northern Lights: Yes
- Whales: Yes
Winter weather in Tromso
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Winter is also one of the prime eras to visit Tromso for Northern Lights, as there are 0 hours of daylight throughout most of the season, signifying exceptionally extended, dim nights. To see the aurora well, however, the skies must be clear, and sadly, that’s not always the case.
This time period tends to bring a lot of snowfall, which means the skies can often be overcast. On the other hand, the snow creates a lovely atmosphere, and on the days when the sky is clear, you should be able to enjoy the dancing aurora visible overhead .
Weather in Tromso in December
Tromso transforms into a wintry wonderland in December, which is the snowiest month of the annual cycle. Despite the frigid temperatures and 24 hours of darkness, there are still plenty of ways to stay occupied in Tromso in December: whale viewing, aurora chasing, reindeer sledding, and more.
To aid your choice of the best option, the following section includes a real comparison with tests I conducted using all the top noise reduction software programs by endeavoring to eliminate noise from the same image.
- Hours of daylight: 0
- Hours of sunshine: 0
- Normal minimum temperature: 26° F
- Average temperature: 30° F
- Average high temperature: 33° F
- Average days with precipitation: 14
- Average precipitation: 375 mm
- Northern Lights: Yes
- Whales: Yes
Weather in Tromso in January
Visit the northern Norway city of Tromso in January if you aim to benefit from marginally more daylight than in December. These few additional hours of daylight signify it will be simpler to glimpse whales if you embark on a whale watching tour. As in December, nights are incredibly prolonged and dim, which is ideal for observing the Northern Lights.
Weather-wise, January tends to be even colder and snowier than December, so preparing to bundle up would be wise. Shelter from the cold could be found inside one of Tromso’s cultural institutions.
- Hours of daylight: 1-2
- Hours of sunshine: 0
- Normal minimum temperature: 22° F
- Average temperature: 26° F
- Average high temperature: 29° F
- Average days with precipitation: 13
- Average precipitation: 456 mm
- Northern Lights: Yes
- Whales: Yes
Weather in Tromso in February
The days in Tromso, Norway start to lengthen coming into February, so there is enough daylight for hiking, wildlife tours, husky sledding, and additional activities. Whale watching season officially concludes at the end of January, but if fortunate, marine mammals may still be spotted at the beginning of February.
The conditions are as frigid and snow-covered as in January, and the nights remain long enough for optimal aurora observation.
- Hours of daylight: 7
- Hours of sunshine: 1
- Normal minimum temperature: 21° F
- Average temperature: 26° F
- Average high temperature: 30° F
- Average days with precipitation: 11
- Average precipitation: 450 mm
- Northern Lights: Yes
- Whales: Maybe
March weather in Tromso
March provides comparatively warmer temperatures and more daylight in Tromso during winter, making it the optimal month to sightsee during daylight hours. While whale watching season has ended, the aurora season remains in full swing.
Indeed, March features low cloud coverage compared to other months suitable for viewing the aurora, making it an excellent time to photograph the Northern Lights. Although weather conditions in Tromso, Norway during March can involve snow or rain, much of the period is usually precipitation-free.
- Hours of daylight: 11-12
- Hours of sunshine: 4
- Normal minimum temperature: 25° F
- Average temperature: 29° F
- Average high temperature: 34° F
- Average days with precipitation: 11
- Average precipitation: 307 mm
- Northern Lights: Yes
- Whales: No
When is the best time to visit Tromso?
Ultimately, visiting Tromso is worthwhile during any season, so the optimal time will depend on individual priorities. For some travelers, exceptional natural phenomena may outweigh cold temperatures and extended nights, while others may prefer lengthy daylight hours and warmth.
To assist you in deciding when to visit Tromso, below are some of the best times to engage in popular activities:
- Where can you charter a camper in the USA?
- Prime interval to witness the midnight sun in Norway
- Optimal time of year to visit Tromso for whale watching
- Best time to go hiking in Tromso
- Cheapest time to visit Tromso
- Least crowded time of year to visit Tromso
Best time to see Northern Lights in Tromso
The best time to visit Tromso for Northern Lights is winter since the nights are so dark and long, however September is also an excellent month for aurora viewing. In fact, the entire aurora season lasts from September to April, so if you’d prefer to experience warmer weather and have plenty of daylight hours for exploring, spring or fall is the best time to visit.
No matter when you decide to visit Tromso, be sure to book in advance one of the top-rated Tromso Northern Lights excursions like this one. Joining an organized trip removes the stress of independently predicting aurora visibility yourself and increases the likelihood of actually witnessing the Northern Lights phenomenon.
Of course, to see the Northern Lights without leaving your hotel, booking a room at one of the top Northern Lights hotels in Norway , several of which are in Tromso , is an option.
Best time to see the midnight sun in Tromso
If you want to experience the midnight sun, the best time to visit Tromso is the longest day of the year, the summer solstice on June 21st. You’ll also experience about 24 hours of sunshine per day from the end of June to the beginning of July .
Best time of year to visit Tromso for whale watching
The whale watching season in Tromso starts in November and concludes in January, but visitors interested in whale watching will find the best chances of success in November when daylight hours are still generous and temperatures are relatively mild.
With a bit of good fortune, nonetheless, you may have the ability to find a few whales during the beginning of February, specifically if you guide one of the perfect whale observing excursions from Tromso, such as this whale safari and voyage.
Best time to go hiking in Tromso
The best time of year to visit hiking in Tromso is summer. Not only are the temperatures warm, but there’s also enough daylight to accommodate a lengthy hike.
Most beneficially, there’s no risk of snowfall, which can make routes slippery and perilous in autumn and winter .
Cheapest time to visit Tromso
Travelers watching their budgets will find the prime time of the year to explore Tromso stretches from January to March. Low season for visiting usually happens in winter, resulting in lowered prices for lodging .
Least touristy time of year to visit Tromso
Many travelers find it more pleasant to visit a city when there are fewer sightseers around. If that works for you, the best time of year to visit Tromso is any month other than May, August, September, or July, the busiest times for tourism. However, keep in mind that Tromso can remain regularly busy from September to April, which is aurora season.
Best month to visit Tromso
As previously noted, there is no single best time of year to visit Tromsø, as each month offers unique attractions appealing to different interests. The winter period appeals more to those hoping to observe the northern lights display or celebrate Christmas traditions, while spring is preferable for marking one of Norway’s significant holidays.
On the other hand, summer provides plenty of hiking and camping opportunities, as well as the chance to see the midnight sun, while the fall is perfect for whale watching.
The table below outlines the activities available each month in Tromso:
|
January |
Meet reindeer and go pulling reindeer on sleds |
|
February |
Go husky sledding |
|
March |
See the Northern Lights |
|
April |
Experience the initial signs of spring |
|
May |
Commemorate the U.S. Constitution`s enactment (May 17th) |
|
June |
See the midnight sun |
|
July |
Swim in the fjords |
|
August |
Explore hiking trails around Tromso |
|
September |
View an aurora display |
|
October |
Tour the Arctic landscapes |
|
November |
Go whale watching |
|
December |
Celebrate Christmas and experience polar sunset |
|
MOST SUITABLE MONTHS TO EXPLORE TROMSO |
|
|---|---|
It is advised that visitors obtain a map of Tromso before their trip to aid with navigation across the city. Moreover, those interested in traveling to Norway may wish to join our photographic tour of the Lofoten Islands, located nearby to Tromso!
Ultimately, the best time of year to visit Tromso is whichever suits you best. Provided you plan your visit to Tromso to coincide with the activities that appeal to you most, you’ll definitely have an enjoyable time, irrespective of how much snow falls or how constant the daylight is.
Enjoy your time in Tromso!
