Audio Guide: Tromso Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Tromso
“The North is best,” wrote the famed Norwegian poet Rolf Jacobsen, celebrating the dramatic landscapes and luminous skies of Northern Norway-the very essence of places like Tromso.
The city of Tromso derives its name from the island of Tromsoya, on which it stands, whose own name, in turn, is likely associated with the word straumr, meaning "strong current, " a fitting reference to the powerful waters that have shaped life here for centuries.
In the late 9th century, a Viking chieftain named Ohthere, often regarded as the first North Norwegian known to history, settled in the southern reaches of present-day Tromso.
The city’s first church-“St. Mary’s in Troms near the Heathens”-was constructed in 1252, making it the northernmost church in the world at the time. Tromso’s strategic importance as a frontier outpost near Russia was underscored by a protective turf rampart built to defend against Karelian and Russian raids. Later, in the 17th century, during Denmark-Norway’s expansion northward, the Skansen redoubt was constructed as a coastal stronghold.
In 1794, Tromsø was granted city status, sparking its rise after Bergen’s monopoly on the cod trade came to an end. Throughout the 19th century, the town earned the nickname “Paris of the North” for its cultural life and perceived sophistication. It also became a key hub for Arctic hunters and polar expeditions led by legendary explorers such as Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen.
During World War II, the city briefly served as Norway's government seat. It escaped the war unscathed and later accommodated refugees from war-ravaged northern regions. Post-war, Tromso experienced rapid expansion, incorporating rural municipalities and nearly tripling its population, solidifying its status as a pivotal regional urban center.
Today, Tromso's historical significance is echoed in its many landmarks which people come to see from near and far. Such are the iconic Tromso Cathedral and the Polar Museum, providing insights into the intrepid explorers who braved the Arctic. Meanwhile, the historic Beer Hall is where visitors can savor local brews and traditional fare.
For those with a thirst for adventure, the MS Polstjerna Ship offers a glimpse into Norway's seafaring past, while the Polaria Aquarium invites visitors to discover the wonders of the Arctic seas.
From Viking shores to polar departures, Tromso’s story unfolds step by step before you. And as the light dances above and the sea flows below, it becomes clear why Rolf Jacobsen said it best: the North is best.
The city of Tromso derives its name from the island of Tromsoya, on which it stands, whose own name, in turn, is likely associated with the word straumr, meaning "strong current, " a fitting reference to the powerful waters that have shaped life here for centuries.
In the late 9th century, a Viking chieftain named Ohthere, often regarded as the first North Norwegian known to history, settled in the southern reaches of present-day Tromso.
The city’s first church-“St. Mary’s in Troms near the Heathens”-was constructed in 1252, making it the northernmost church in the world at the time. Tromso’s strategic importance as a frontier outpost near Russia was underscored by a protective turf rampart built to defend against Karelian and Russian raids. Later, in the 17th century, during Denmark-Norway’s expansion northward, the Skansen redoubt was constructed as a coastal stronghold.
In 1794, Tromsø was granted city status, sparking its rise after Bergen’s monopoly on the cod trade came to an end. Throughout the 19th century, the town earned the nickname “Paris of the North” for its cultural life and perceived sophistication. It also became a key hub for Arctic hunters and polar expeditions led by legendary explorers such as Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen.
During World War II, the city briefly served as Norway's government seat. It escaped the war unscathed and later accommodated refugees from war-ravaged northern regions. Post-war, Tromso experienced rapid expansion, incorporating rural municipalities and nearly tripling its population, solidifying its status as a pivotal regional urban center.
Today, Tromso's historical significance is echoed in its many landmarks which people come to see from near and far. Such are the iconic Tromso Cathedral and the Polar Museum, providing insights into the intrepid explorers who braved the Arctic. Meanwhile, the historic Beer Hall is where visitors can savor local brews and traditional fare.
For those with a thirst for adventure, the MS Polstjerna Ship offers a glimpse into Norway's seafaring past, while the Polaria Aquarium invites visitors to discover the wonders of the Arctic seas.
From Viking shores to polar departures, Tromso’s story unfolds step by step before you. And as the light dances above and the sea flows below, it becomes clear why Rolf Jacobsen said it best: the North is best.
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Tromso Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Tromso Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: Norway » Tromso (See other walking tours in Tromso)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 12
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: Norway » Tromso (See other walking tours in Tromso)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 12
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Author: DanaOffice
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Tromso Harbour
- Kystens Hus (The Coastal House)
- Polarmuseet (The Polar Museum)
- Skansen
- Cathedral of Our Lady
- City Library and Archive
- Troll Museum
- Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum (Northern Norwegian Art Museum)
- Tromso Domkirke (Tromso Cathedral)
- Olhallen (Beer Hall)
- MS Polstjerna Ship
- Polaria Aquarium
1) Tromso Harbour
Tromso Harbour stands as a pivotal transportation hub for Northern Norway, offering a bustling maritime environment with a blend of modern infrastructure and historic charm. The guest berths in Tromso Harbor, strategically located in the city center, welcome visitors with open arms. As vessels approach, they are greeted by a picturesque scene: a long stone pier adorned with an old, white-painted wooden tower building at the pier head. This iconic landmark serves as a beacon, guiding ships safely into the harbor even amidst the Arctic winters. The harbor basin, spacious and well-organized, offers ample maneuvering space for vessels of all sizes.
Navigating towards the harbor is a straightforward task, especially with the notable landmarks that guide the way. The modern Kystens Hus, with its sleek design in matte black, stands prominently on land, serving as a distinctive landmark that cannot be missed.
Tromso Harbour holds a significant place in the maritime landscape of Northern Norway, boasting an extensive infrastructure spread across 200 hectares of land and a total quay length of 2100 meters. Approximately 100 companies are located directly within the port area, contributing to its dynamic and diverse ecosystem.
Navigating towards the harbor is a straightforward task, especially with the notable landmarks that guide the way. The modern Kystens Hus, with its sleek design in matte black, stands prominently on land, serving as a distinctive landmark that cannot be missed.
Tromso Harbour holds a significant place in the maritime landscape of Northern Norway, boasting an extensive infrastructure spread across 200 hectares of land and a total quay length of 2100 meters. Approximately 100 companies are located directly within the port area, contributing to its dynamic and diverse ecosystem.
2) Kystens Hus (The Coastal House)
The Coastal House is a modern establishment dedicated to showcasing the richness of coastal life, particularly focusing on seafood, coastal culture, research, innovation, and development. This center serves as a hub for all aspects of coastal living and the blue economy. Discussions about creating such a national center began in the 1990s, and it finally came to fruition in 2015.
Situated in the heart of the city, The Coastal House enjoys excellent visibility and serves as a focal point for promoting a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to coastal matters.
One of the highlights of the Coastal House is its Aquarium, which is a paradise for marine enthusiasts. The aquarium showcases several common species found along the coast of Northern Norway, including cod, pollock, haddock, catfish, and crabs. Visitors can marvel at these creatures in a massive aquarium holding an impressive 90,000 liters of saltwater.
While enjoying the captivating view of fish and crabs, visitors can also indulge in delicious bites from eateries like Dragoy or Ra Sushi, enhancing the overall experience.
In addition to the Aquarium, the Coastal House houses a Knowledge Center with various exhibitions and experiences. Visitors can explore Norwegian fishing history from the ice age to the present day on the ground and first floors, offering an immersive journey through time and culture.
Situated in the heart of the city, The Coastal House enjoys excellent visibility and serves as a focal point for promoting a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to coastal matters.
One of the highlights of the Coastal House is its Aquarium, which is a paradise for marine enthusiasts. The aquarium showcases several common species found along the coast of Northern Norway, including cod, pollock, haddock, catfish, and crabs. Visitors can marvel at these creatures in a massive aquarium holding an impressive 90,000 liters of saltwater.
While enjoying the captivating view of fish and crabs, visitors can also indulge in delicious bites from eateries like Dragoy or Ra Sushi, enhancing the overall experience.
In addition to the Aquarium, the Coastal House houses a Knowledge Center with various exhibitions and experiences. Visitors can explore Norwegian fishing history from the ice age to the present day on the ground and first floors, offering an immersive journey through time and culture.
3) Polarmuseet (The Polar Museum) (must see)
The Polar Museum in Tromso is one of the city’s most compelling cultural attractions, offering visitors a deep dive into the history of Arctic life and exploration. Housed in a historic waterfront building that once served as a customs house, the museum’s exhibits trace Norway’s long and rugged relationship with the polar regions. Through photographs, artifacts, and immersive displays, you’ll encounter stories of sealing and trapping, the grit of overwintering hunters, and the daring journeys of legendary explorers.
Set against the backdrop of Tromso’s maritime past, the museum presents a series of permanent exhibitions that explore how people adapted to and survived extreme Arctic conditions. Here you’ll learn about the cultural history of Svalbard, the tools and techniques used for seal hunting, and the lived experience of those who made their lives at the edge of the world. Special showcases also highlight Norway’s contributions to polar exploration, including figures like Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, whose expeditions helped shape our understanding of the far North.
The museum’s layout leads you through these rich narratives at a relaxed pace, and many displays are accompanied by informative texts in English and other languages, making it accessible for international visitors. A visit typically takes around 1–2 hours, giving you time to absorb the atmosphere and historical context before moving on to other attractions in Tromso. While there’s no café on site, a small museum shop offers books, souvenirs, and gifts related to Arctic history.
Set against the backdrop of Tromso’s maritime past, the museum presents a series of permanent exhibitions that explore how people adapted to and survived extreme Arctic conditions. Here you’ll learn about the cultural history of Svalbard, the tools and techniques used for seal hunting, and the lived experience of those who made their lives at the edge of the world. Special showcases also highlight Norway’s contributions to polar exploration, including figures like Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen, whose expeditions helped shape our understanding of the far North.
The museum’s layout leads you through these rich narratives at a relaxed pace, and many displays are accompanied by informative texts in English and other languages, making it accessible for international visitors. A visit typically takes around 1–2 hours, giving you time to absorb the atmosphere and historical context before moving on to other attractions in Tromso. While there’s no café on site, a small museum shop offers books, souvenirs, and gifts related to Arctic history.
4) Skansen
Skansen, also known as Rundellen, stands as a significant fortification within the Norwegian city of Tromso. This ensemble of buildings holds the distinction of being the oldest in the city, with its fortress wall serving as the sole visible structure preserved from the Middle Ages. Designated as historical monuments since 1978, Skansen and a portion of the bay in the Tromsøysund Strait are revered for their historical significance. Moreover, Skansen was elected as the Millennium Site by the Tromso Municipality, symbolizing the transition into the 21st century.
Skansen is characterized by its circular fortress, situated atop an artificial plateau measuring approximately 50 meters in diameter. The fortress wall, standing three to four meters tall, features a gentle slope inward, with historical records suggesting it was once higher. Evidence suggests that palisades may have adorned the rampart for added protection, although this remains speculative. In 1808, four cannons were mounted on the eastern rampart, featuring carriages meticulously replicated from those found at Vardøhus Fortress.
Within the confines of the rampart, seven buildings exist, constructed between 1789 and 1793, though they do not originate from the same period as the fortress itself. The name Castle Hill hints at the possibility of a castle once occupying the site, as suggested by geologist Karl Pettersen in 1878. Similarly, Austrian Jesuit priest Maximilian Hell described Skansen as an ancient royal castle in 1769. The first written mention of Skansen dates back to 1743, documented by Major Peter Schnitler in a border protocol.
Skansen is characterized by its circular fortress, situated atop an artificial plateau measuring approximately 50 meters in diameter. The fortress wall, standing three to four meters tall, features a gentle slope inward, with historical records suggesting it was once higher. Evidence suggests that palisades may have adorned the rampart for added protection, although this remains speculative. In 1808, four cannons were mounted on the eastern rampart, featuring carriages meticulously replicated from those found at Vardøhus Fortress.
Within the confines of the rampart, seven buildings exist, constructed between 1789 and 1793, though they do not originate from the same period as the fortress itself. The name Castle Hill hints at the possibility of a castle once occupying the site, as suggested by geologist Karl Pettersen in 1878. Similarly, Austrian Jesuit priest Maximilian Hell described Skansen as an ancient royal castle in 1769. The first written mention of Skansen dates back to 1743, documented by Major Peter Schnitler in a border protocol.
5) Cathedral of Our Lady
The Cathedral of Our Lady is the Roman Catholic cathedral of Tromso and an important point of reference for visitors interested in the city’s religious diversity. Often confused with the larger Lutheran Tromso Cathedral nearby, this church serves a different denomination and has its own distinct role in local life. Despite its modest size, it holds global significance as the northernmost Catholic cathedral in the world.
Completed in 1861, the cathedral was built of wood, reflecting the construction traditions common in northern Norway at the time. Its exterior is simple and restrained, lacking the monumental scale often associated with cathedrals further south. This understatement is part of its character, aligning with the practical conditions of the Arctic environment and the small Catholic community it was built to serve. Over the decades, the building has remained largely unchanged, preserving its original form and purpose.
Inside, the atmosphere is quiet and intimate, shaped by clean lines, warm wooden surfaces, and carefully placed religious details. The interior reflects Catholic liturgical traditions while maintaining a sense of simplicity suited to its northern setting. The space invites calm reflection rather than spectacle, offering a different experience from Tromso’s larger churches.
The cathedral gained brief global fame in 1989 when Pope John Paul II visited Tromso and stayed in the small bishop's residence attached to this very cathedral.
Completed in 1861, the cathedral was built of wood, reflecting the construction traditions common in northern Norway at the time. Its exterior is simple and restrained, lacking the monumental scale often associated with cathedrals further south. This understatement is part of its character, aligning with the practical conditions of the Arctic environment and the small Catholic community it was built to serve. Over the decades, the building has remained largely unchanged, preserving its original form and purpose.
Inside, the atmosphere is quiet and intimate, shaped by clean lines, warm wooden surfaces, and carefully placed religious details. The interior reflects Catholic liturgical traditions while maintaining a sense of simplicity suited to its northern setting. The space invites calm reflection rather than spectacle, offering a different experience from Tromso’s larger churches.
The cathedral gained brief global fame in 1989 when Pope John Paul II visited Tromso and stayed in the small bishop's residence attached to this very cathedral.
6) City Library and Archive
The City Library building reflects a contemporary approach to public architecture, designed by Norwegian architects to integrate with its urban and natural surroundings. Defined by clean lines and large glass surfaces, the structure emphasizes openness and accessibility while maintaining a clear presence within the cityscape.
Inside, the library offers an extensive collection of books, newspapers, and digital resources arranged across four floors, with an additional gallery level above. The collection ranges from classic literature to recent publications and materials focused on national and regional themes. Spaces are organized to accommodate readers of different ages, along with areas for study, research, and everyday use.
In addition to its lending collections, the library functions as an important resource for understanding Tromsø’s history and cultural development. Archival holdings and curated materials allow visitors to explore historical documents and local records, providing context for the city’s growth and changing identity over time.
Located within a shared complex that includes the town hall and a cinema, the Tromsø City Library and Archive plays an active role in daily city life. It serves both as a place for quiet reading and as a public meeting space, supporting learning, cultural exchange, and community use.
Inside, the library offers an extensive collection of books, newspapers, and digital resources arranged across four floors, with an additional gallery level above. The collection ranges from classic literature to recent publications and materials focused on national and regional themes. Spaces are organized to accommodate readers of different ages, along with areas for study, research, and everyday use.
In addition to its lending collections, the library functions as an important resource for understanding Tromsø’s history and cultural development. Archival holdings and curated materials allow visitors to explore historical documents and local records, providing context for the city’s growth and changing identity over time.
Located within a shared complex that includes the town hall and a cinema, the Tromsø City Library and Archive plays an active role in daily city life. It serves both as a place for quiet reading and as a public meeting space, supporting learning, cultural exchange, and community use.
7) Troll Museum
The Troll Museum is the first and only troll museum in all of Norway. Utilizing modern Augmented Reality (AR) technology, this museum offers visitors an immersive journey into the enchanting world of Norwegian fairy tales and legends, providing a delightful exploration of Norse folklore. Located in the heart of Tromso, the Troll Museum invites both locals and tourists alike to embark on an adventure filled with wonder and excitement. Designed to appeal to visitors of all ages, the museum boasts interactive exhibits and engaging experiences that promise fun for everyone.
The museum is housed within two charming halls: the Road of Trolls and the Home of the Sea Troll. Each hall is meticulously crafted to transport visitors into the fantastical realm of trolls, where they can learn about these mythical creatures and their significance in Norwegian culture.
One of the highlights of the Troll Museum is its use of AR technology, which allows visitors to interact with virtual elements overlaid onto the physical exhibits. Through this innovative approach, visitors can witness trolls come to life before their eyes, adding an extra layer of magic to their museum experience.
In addition to the main exhibits, the museum also features a library and a games room, providing opportunities for further exploration and enjoyment.
The museum is housed within two charming halls: the Road of Trolls and the Home of the Sea Troll. Each hall is meticulously crafted to transport visitors into the fantastical realm of trolls, where they can learn about these mythical creatures and their significance in Norwegian culture.
One of the highlights of the Troll Museum is its use of AR technology, which allows visitors to interact with virtual elements overlaid onto the physical exhibits. Through this innovative approach, visitors can witness trolls come to life before their eyes, adding an extra layer of magic to their museum experience.
In addition to the main exhibits, the museum also features a library and a games room, providing opportunities for further exploration and enjoyment.
8) Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum (Northern Norwegian Art Museum)
Dedicated to offering unique perspectives on art, the Northern Norwegian Art Museum serves as a platform for exploring the rich artistic heritage of Northern Norway. Despite its modest size, the museum's collection is diverse and dynamic, encompassing a wide range of mediums, motifs, and styles. Visitors can expect to encounter artworks that not only depict the external landscapes of Northern Norway as seen through the eyes of visiting artists but also delve into the internal perspectives of regional artists.
Spanning from the late 18th century to the present day, the museum's collection provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of art in the Northern Norwegian region. From traditional paintings to contemporary installations, each artwork offers insights into the cultural, historical, and social dynamics of the area.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Northern Norwegian Art Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various themes and artistic movements. These exhibitions serve to enrich visitors' experiences by offering fresh perspectives and insights into both historical and contemporary art practices.
Beyond its role as a repository of art, the museum serves as a hub for artistic dialogue and cultural exchange. Through educational programs, workshops, and public events, the Northern Norwegian Art Museum fosters engagement with the arts and promotes a deeper understanding of Northern Norwegian culture and identity.
Spanning from the late 18th century to the present day, the museum's collection provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of art in the Northern Norwegian region. From traditional paintings to contemporary installations, each artwork offers insights into the cultural, historical, and social dynamics of the area.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Northern Norwegian Art Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various themes and artistic movements. These exhibitions serve to enrich visitors' experiences by offering fresh perspectives and insights into both historical and contemporary art practices.
Beyond its role as a repository of art, the museum serves as a hub for artistic dialogue and cultural exchange. Through educational programs, workshops, and public events, the Northern Norwegian Art Museum fosters engagement with the arts and promotes a deeper understanding of Northern Norwegian culture and identity.
9) Tromso Domkirke (Tromso Cathedral) (must see)
Tromso Cathedral is a magnificent wooden church constructed in the Late Gothic style. Positioned with its steeple and main entrance facing west towards Storgata Street, and its choir oriented towards the east overlooking Tromsø Sound, the cathedral holds a commanding presence in its surroundings.
Nestled within Kirkeparken, a park that once served as a graveyard until the 19th century, Tromso Cathedral holds a rich historical significance dating back to the construction of the first church on Tromso Island in 1250, as commanded by the king. Since then, a church has likely stood on this site, with the current cathedral serving as a testament to centuries of religious and architectural heritage.
Constructed using the traditional timber cogging joint method, Tromso Cathedral boasts exquisite weatherboarding and intricate detailing both inside and out, reflecting the architectural style of the period. The design of the cathedral is attributed to Christian Heinrich Grosch (1801-1865), a prolific architect known for his work on numerous churches across Norway during the mid-19th century.
The cathedral's elongated structure is adorned with extensions on its long sides, housing the hallway and staircase to the galleries. The steeple gracefully ascends through multiple joints from the porch to the spire, culminating in a dated weathervane at its apex. Throughout the cathedral, a harmonious blend of design and color accentuates the structural joints, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. To further enhance its durability and visual appeal, the roofs of Tromsø Cathedral are clad with slate, ensuring longevity while adding a touch of elegance to its architectural profile.
Nestled within Kirkeparken, a park that once served as a graveyard until the 19th century, Tromso Cathedral holds a rich historical significance dating back to the construction of the first church on Tromso Island in 1250, as commanded by the king. Since then, a church has likely stood on this site, with the current cathedral serving as a testament to centuries of religious and architectural heritage.
Constructed using the traditional timber cogging joint method, Tromso Cathedral boasts exquisite weatherboarding and intricate detailing both inside and out, reflecting the architectural style of the period. The design of the cathedral is attributed to Christian Heinrich Grosch (1801-1865), a prolific architect known for his work on numerous churches across Norway during the mid-19th century.
The cathedral's elongated structure is adorned with extensions on its long sides, housing the hallway and staircase to the galleries. The steeple gracefully ascends through multiple joints from the porch to the spire, culminating in a dated weathervane at its apex. Throughout the cathedral, a harmonious blend of design and color accentuates the structural joints, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. To further enhance its durability and visual appeal, the roofs of Tromsø Cathedral are clad with slate, ensuring longevity while adding a touch of elegance to its architectural profile.
10) Olhallen (Beer Hall)
Beer Hall is the oldest pub in Tromso, having opened in 1928. It has long been part of the city’s everyday social rhythm. Traditionally a daytime and early-evening meeting place, it is where people stop for a social pint after work or sightseeing. Even today, it typically closes early in the evening and remains closed on Sundays, reinforcing its role as a pub rooted in routine rather than late-night entertainment.
For decades, the Beer Hall was a well-known gathering place for polar explorers, hunters, and fishermen preparing for journeys into the Arctic ice. This history is still visible inside. A stuffed polar bear stands as a reminder of Tromsø’s hunting past, while photographs of well-known Arctic figures line the walls, grounding the space firmly in the city’s northern identity. These details are not decorative additions but part of the pub’s original story.
The Beer Hall also serves as the taproom for Mack Brewery, once known as the northernmost brewery in the world. In 2026, the pub features an extensive selection of 67 beers on tap, with a strong focus on Mack’s own brews alongside other Norwegian craft beers. Although the space has been updated to accommodate visitors, it retains its traditional layout, including long wooden tables designed for shared seating. This combination of history, beer culture, and communal atmosphere makes the Beer Hall a clear reflection of Tromso’s social life, past and present.
For decades, the Beer Hall was a well-known gathering place for polar explorers, hunters, and fishermen preparing for journeys into the Arctic ice. This history is still visible inside. A stuffed polar bear stands as a reminder of Tromsø’s hunting past, while photographs of well-known Arctic figures line the walls, grounding the space firmly in the city’s northern identity. These details are not decorative additions but part of the pub’s original story.
The Beer Hall also serves as the taproom for Mack Brewery, once known as the northernmost brewery in the world. In 2026, the pub features an extensive selection of 67 beers on tap, with a strong focus on Mack’s own brews alongside other Norwegian craft beers. Although the space has been updated to accommodate visitors, it retains its traditional layout, including long wooden tables designed for shared seating. This combination of history, beer culture, and communal atmosphere makes the Beer Hall a clear reflection of Tromso’s social life, past and present.
11) MS Polstjerna Ship
MS Polstjerna stands as a testament to Norway's rich maritime heritage and its connection to the Arctic seas. Built in 1949 this historic vessel has a storied past that spans over three decades of service in the harsh conditions of the West Ice.
For 33 hunting seasons, MV Polstjerna braved the icy waters, primarily engaged in sealing expeditions. Its final season came in 1981, marking the end of an era in Arctic exploration. However, the vessel's legacy lived on as it was taken over by the Arctic Society later that same year.
In 2005, MV Polstjerna found a new home in a covered dry dock, where it now serves as a captivating museum attraction. Visitors have the unique opportunity to step aboard this historic vessel and immerse themselves in the fascinating world of Arctic sealing. Equipped with an audio guide, guests can listen to captivating stories about the vessel's adventures and gain insight into the lives of those who sailed her.
The museum enclosure also features the exhibition "Snowhow," which explores the invaluable knowledge that polar explorers gleaned from the indigenous peoples of the Arctic. Through interactive displays and informative exhibits, visitors can delve deeper into the cultural exchange and survival techniques that shaped Arctic exploration.
While exploring MS Polstjerna, visitors should be mindful of the vessel's steep interior stairs. For those uncomfortable with climbing ladders, the main deck offers a glimpse into the ship's history and significance. Additionally, wheelchair access is not available aboard the vessel, and visitors with vision impairments are encouraged to be accompanied due to some dimly lit areas.
For 33 hunting seasons, MV Polstjerna braved the icy waters, primarily engaged in sealing expeditions. Its final season came in 1981, marking the end of an era in Arctic exploration. However, the vessel's legacy lived on as it was taken over by the Arctic Society later that same year.
In 2005, MV Polstjerna found a new home in a covered dry dock, where it now serves as a captivating museum attraction. Visitors have the unique opportunity to step aboard this historic vessel and immerse themselves in the fascinating world of Arctic sealing. Equipped with an audio guide, guests can listen to captivating stories about the vessel's adventures and gain insight into the lives of those who sailed her.
The museum enclosure also features the exhibition "Snowhow," which explores the invaluable knowledge that polar explorers gleaned from the indigenous peoples of the Arctic. Through interactive displays and informative exhibits, visitors can delve deeper into the cultural exchange and survival techniques that shaped Arctic exploration.
While exploring MS Polstjerna, visitors should be mindful of the vessel's steep interior stairs. For those uncomfortable with climbing ladders, the main deck offers a glimpse into the ship's history and significance. Additionally, wheelchair access is not available aboard the vessel, and visitors with vision impairments are encouraged to be accompanied due to some dimly lit areas.
12) Polaria Aquarium (must see)
Polaria is the world’s northernmost aquarium and an educational centre focused on Arctic environments and marine life. Opened in May 1998, it was conceived not as a traditional scientific aquarium but as a space designed to explain Arctic nature in an accessible and engaging way, with a strong emphasis on learning through experience. Families and younger visitors, in particular, benefit from its hands-on approach and clear presentation of complex topics.
The exhibitions place special attention on Svalbard and other high-Arctic regions, introducing visitors to ecosystems shaped by ice, cold seas, and seasonal extremes. Displays include the Arctic Walkway, which presents polar exploration equipment, preserved animals, and recreated permafrost conditions. Alongside this, a series of aquaria showcase marine species found along the Norwegian coast, while interactive tanks with small fish and shoreline creatures encourage closer observation and participation.
At the centre of Polaria is an open pool housing bearded seals. These animals are cared for through structured training sessions that support both physical activity and mental stimulation. Visitors can observe the seals from above, through underwater viewing windows, and from a transparent tunnel running alongside the pool. In 2026, the seals are active only during scheduled feeding and training sessions, so checking the daily programme is essential to see them interacting with their trainers.
Polaria’s building is itself part of the experience. Its angular form is meant to resemble ice floes pushed ashore by Arctic seas, reflecting the environment it interprets. A major expansion and renovation completed in 2024–2025 added a new interactive section that focuses strongly on climate change and the shifting Arctic “Ice Edge.” These updated exhibits use modern technology to explain environmental change and reinforce Polaria’s role as a centre for Arctic education rather than a conventional aquarium alone.
The exhibitions place special attention on Svalbard and other high-Arctic regions, introducing visitors to ecosystems shaped by ice, cold seas, and seasonal extremes. Displays include the Arctic Walkway, which presents polar exploration equipment, preserved animals, and recreated permafrost conditions. Alongside this, a series of aquaria showcase marine species found along the Norwegian coast, while interactive tanks with small fish and shoreline creatures encourage closer observation and participation.
At the centre of Polaria is an open pool housing bearded seals. These animals are cared for through structured training sessions that support both physical activity and mental stimulation. Visitors can observe the seals from above, through underwater viewing windows, and from a transparent tunnel running alongside the pool. In 2026, the seals are active only during scheduled feeding and training sessions, so checking the daily programme is essential to see them interacting with their trainers.
Polaria’s building is itself part of the experience. Its angular form is meant to resemble ice floes pushed ashore by Arctic seas, reflecting the environment it interprets. A major expansion and renovation completed in 2024–2025 added a new interactive section that focuses strongly on climate change and the shifting Arctic “Ice Edge.” These updated exhibits use modern technology to explain environmental change and reinforce Polaria’s role as a centre for Arctic education rather than a conventional aquarium alone.
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