10 TOP Things to Do in Troms January 2026

🌌Northern Lights over Tromsø - Tromsø - Troms - Norway🇳🇴

📷Nikon D7500 - ISO 250 - Nikkor 18-200mm lens f3.5-5.6 G - 24mm - f/5,0 13,0 sec

➡️A couple of weeks I wrote a caption explaining the Northern Lights from a scientific view👨‍🔬, now it is time for the legends surrounding this amazing spectacle:

📜According to one legend, Odin, the chief god and ruler of Asgard, lived in Valhalla, where he was preparing for Ragnarök. This event was predestined and would be Odin’s greatest battle⚔️, so he needed the bravest warriors at his side. During every battle on Earth, Odin would pick the warriors who would die and join him in Valhalla. The Valkiries👸 were female warriors on horseback. who wore armour and carried spears and shields🛡️, were tasked with leading Odin’s chosen warriors to Valhalla. The Vikings believed the Northern Lights🌌 illuminating the sky were the reflections of the Valkyrie’s armour🛡️ as they led the warrior to Odin.

📜In several other legends, they claim the Northern Lights🌌 were the breath of brave soldier who died in combat or they were believed to be the Bifrost Bridge🌈, a glowing, pulsing arch which led fallen warriors to the their final resting place in Valhalla.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦But for the Sámi people, the Northern Lights🌌 didn’t tell stories of heroism and bravery, they believed that they were the souls of the dead💀, and they were to be feared and respected in equal measure, so you shouldn’t talk🗣️ about them or even waving👋, whistling😗 or singing🎶 under them, as this would alert the lights to your presence and carry you up to the sky⬆️. Nowadays, many Sámi people stay in their homes🏠 when the Northern Lights are illuminating the sky🌌.

❓Did you know that that Norway has more English speakers than Canada? 76% of the Canadian population speaks English while 86% of the Norwegians make use of the English language for communication.

Tip: Ladies, you do not have to bring your bikini for this beach. #BeachTips #BVSBlue #GreatOutdoors #Nature

#LKsAwayDays A magical night with the Northern Lights #WinterWonders #Aurora

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Tromsø: Northern Lights Tour with Guaranteed Sightings

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What to do in Troms

Popular places to visit

Tromso Cathedral

This 19th-century wooden Protestant cathedral is highly regarded for its Gothic Revival architecture, imposing bell tower and striking interior artwork.

Polar-Alpine Botanical Gardens featuring flowers

University of Tromso

Enjoy the student vibe at University of Tromso as part of your travels around Tromsø. Discover the northern lights views in this walkable area or enjoy its local tours.

Polar Museum

Get insight into the history of many polar expeditions and learn about Norway’s heritage of bear trapping and arctic travelers in this intriguing museum.

Polaria

Designed as an educational center, this aquarium features knowledge-based exhibits, display tanks with local marine life and a panoramic cinema.

Tromso University Museum

See interactive exhibits, wander through exotic botanical gardens and learn about Norway’s polar seafaring tradition in the departments of this exceptional museum.

Polar-Alpine Botanical Gardens

Admire exotic plants from Chile, Africa and Turkey, along with a large collection of alpine and arctic flora in these beautiful public gardens.

Bardufossen

Enjoy stunning views of this roaring waterfall or cast a line and hook a sizable trout in the river that courses through pine forest and farmland in Maalselv.

Tromso Fjords

Explore the great outdoors at Tromso Fjords and enjoy the northern lights views during your trip to Tromsø. Discover the cosy cafes in this walkable area or seek out the local tours.