We will be visiting Tromso for 4 nights in December in hopes of seeing the Northern Lights. We will not have a car. I know there are well over 100 companies that provide tours to see the Northern Lights. And I can see the reviews online. But if anyone has recommendations or tips, I would greatly appreciate your advice.
Thank you,
Paula
Visiting Tromsø in December gives you a great chance of spotting the Northern Lights, especially since you’ll be there during the long polar nights. Without a car, joining a guided tour is the best option, as operators know the best viewing spots and can drive you away from city light pollution. Many companies also offer thermal suits, tripods, and photography tips, which can make your experience more comfortable and memorable. Look for small-group tours, as they often provide more flexibility and a better chance to adjust locations based on weather and aurora forecasts.
When choosing a tour, check whether they offer a “chase” style trip, meaning they’ll keep moving to find clear skies rather than staying in one fixed spot. Since Tromsø weather can be unpredictable in winter, this flexibility is key. It’s also a good idea to book at least two nights of Northern Lights tours to increase your chances, and keep one night free to enjoy other local experiences like a fjord cruise, Sami culture tours, or dog sledding. Even if the lights don’t appear every night, the Arctic scenery and winter activities will make your trip unforgettable.
Fjellheisen is a good place with a scenic view on Tromsø as well.
https://www.fjellheisen.no/engelsk/fjellheisen-home
Tip 1: use an Aurora forecast app.
Tip 2: check weather forecast for clear sky on https://www.yr.no/en.
