Tromso Weather in December

December: polar night

December in Tromsø is cold, damp and often cloudy. The high is -3°C and the low is -8°C, with rain on many days. The sun doesn't rise, so even midday feels like a long blue twilight. That can make the Arctic Cathedral and harbour lovely to see, but it's not a month for bright views from mountain trails.

Northern Lights tours and reindeer sledding suit the dark winter days. Clouds can hide the aurora, though, so don't count on seeing it every night. Skip plans that depend on clear mountain views, and keep indoor stops like the Polar Museum in your day.

Christmas in Tromsø

The city puts up Christmas lights, and you'll find seasonal stalls and decorations around the centre. Christmas Eve is an important family holiday in Norway, so some shops and restaurants may close or have shorter hours. Check opening times for specific places before heading out.

If you hate crowds, avoid the Christmas and New Year period. December is a popular month for aurora trips, and demand can push prices above quieter months. It's not an easy month to find a bargain, especially around the holidays.

Make the most of the dark

Travelling with kids? Build in warm indoor breaks between short outdoor outings. The Polar Museum, in a former customs house near the harbour, gives you a cosy way to learn about Arctic life.

For a local winter view, take the Fjellheisen cable car up Storsteinen if it's running and conditions allow. The city lights look striking against the dark, but clouds can block the view. Around town, try a bowl of bacalao, a Norwegian dish made with dried and salted cod. Keep plans flexible: December brings wet weather as well as snow, and paths can be slippery.