Where to Stay in Tromsø (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
Choosing where to stay in Tromsø can honestly feel harder than planning the rest of the trip combined – especially when you’re travelling solo and accommodation matters so much for how safe and comfortable you’ll feel during your stay.
I spent a lot of time researching Tromsø hotels before my own trip in winter, considering safety, location, price and whether I’d actually feel comfortable coming back alone at night after Northern Lights excursions.
I’ve travelled solo to 24 countries across Europe and definitely found that Tromsø has its own quirks – weather, tour pickups, icy streets – that really matter when choosing a base.
So, in this guide, I’ll share the hotel I booked, the others I seriously considered, the best areas to stay in Tromsø, and how to pick the right neighbourhood for you!
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Best Hotels in Tromsø Overall
If you just want the best accommodation in Tromsø, these are my top overall picks.
- Ami Hotel: Best value for solo travellers who want a central, friendly base with a kitchen and even Northern Lights tours right from the hotel!
- Clarion Hotel The Edge: The best hotel in Tromsø if you want luxury, incredible harbour views, and an amazing central location.
- Thon Hotel Tromsø: A reliable, comfortable choice in the city centre, close to shopping, food, things to do and transport.
- Sommarøy Arctic Hotel: Best place to stay near Tromsø for the Northern Lights, or if you just want to get out of the city and into nature.
- Yggdrasil Farmhotel: One of the coolest hotels in Tromsø for slow travel, wellness, and cosy stays out in nature.
Things to Consider When Booking Tromsø Accommodation
When you’re travelling solo, especially in winter, your accommodation affects how safe you feel, how easy your days are and, honestly, how much you enjoy the whole experience.
Tromsø city centre may be compact, but winter changes everything, with long nights, ice, unpredictable weather and early tour starts, meaning location really matters.
Here are the things I personally considered when booking accommodation in Tromsø:
Safety, Walkability & Street Lighting
Feeling safe walking back to your hotel at night is non-negotiable as a solo traveller.
Tromsø is generally very safe, but some streets feel quieter or less well-lit than others, which could definitely feel uncomfortable walking back at night.
I prioritised areas with good street lighting, foot traffic and well-maintained paths (which is especially important in winter when everywhere is snowy and icy!)
Proximity to Things to Do (and Food!)
Tromsø might look small on a map, but distances should always be considered before you book accommodation.
Being close to restaurants, supermarkets, cafés, tour pickup points, and things to do makes a huge difference (especially in winter).
Access to Tours & Pick-Up Points
Most Northern Lights tours and other excursions like husky sledding or reindeer sledding pick up from central Tromsø hotels or nearby meeting points.
So staying close to these areas makes the early starts and late returns far easier. And it also means you’re less affected if a tour runs late or weather conditions change.
Northern Lights Visibility
If you’re hoping to see the Northern Lights from your hotel, it’s important to be realistic. Tromsø city has light pollution, so while sightings can happen, they’re never guaranteed.
So if staying in Tromsø for Northern Lights is your top priority, you’ll need to stay outside the city centre or book guided tours.
Budget vs Convenience
Tromsø isn’t cheap, and accommodation prices can definitely be a shock (especially during the Northern Lights or Midnight Sun months).
But I prioritised paying more for central accommodation, for peace of mind, walkability and easy access to restaurants and things to do.
I’d always recommend prioritising location over finding the cheapest option.
Best Neighbourhoods in Tromsø for Solo Travellers
Choosing where to stay in Tromsø as a solo traveller isn’t just about picking the nicest hotel, but also considering the neighbourhood it’s located in.
Do you want walkable convenience? Peace and nature? Northern Lights potential?
Tromsø has different neighbourhoods and surrounding islands that better suit all of those differently, so let’s go through them all and their best hotels:
Tromsø Downtown: Best for First-Timers
If it’s your first time in Tromsø, downtown is the easiest and most popular place to stay.
This is where you’ll find all the cafes, restaurants, museums, shops, supermarkets, things to do, and tour pickup points within easy walking distance.
Downtown is also one of the safest areas in Tromsø because of foot traffic and lighting.
Streets around Storgata stay busy and well-lit into the night (even when I was walking around after attending the Midnight Concert in Tromsø Cathedral in March – at 1am!).
Plus, in winter, these central streets are more frequently maintained for snow and ice.
It’s great for solo travellers who:
- Want convenience and peace of mind
- Want to explore the highlights of central Tromsø
- Want a gentle introduction to first-time solo travel with easy walkability
Things to do nearby:
- Visit the Polar Museum or Perspektivet Museum
- Join Northern Lights or fjord tours that depart nearby
- Walk around Tromsø Downtown
- Visit Tromsø Cathedral
Best Hotels in Tromsø Downtown
These are the best places to stay in Tromsø Downtown! I’ve either stayed at these hotels or considered them during my research, and I’m sharing exactly who each one is best for.
AMI Hotel (Where I Stayed!)
AMI Hotel is where I stayed, and it ticked a lot of my boxes as a solo female traveller.
It’s affordable (by Tromsø standards, at least!), within a short walk of the town centre, and has genuinely welcoming and friendly staff.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, and you can choose between a private bathroom or shared facilities depending on your budget. I personally chose a private bathroom.
There’s also a shared kitchen, which is so helpful for saving money on food in Tromsø!
But the best part is that they run their own Northern Lights tours directly from the hotel.
This is a huge bonus if you want everything to feel straightforward and organised for you, as pickup and drop-off is straight from the hotel!
However, there is one slight downside I didn’t consider in winter: the hotel is on a hill.
It’s not steep, but in snow and ice, I definitely underestimated how challenging it would be with a suitcase. It’s doable, but something to consider.
Clarion Hotel The Edge
If you want comfort, convenience, and a bit of luxury for your stay, Clarion Hotel The Edge is one of the best hotels in Tromsø!
It’s located right by the harbour in the heart of downtown, which means you’re close to everything from restaurants and museums to the port and tour departure points.
The rooms are definitely luxurious, with modern décor and warm and comfortable touches to really enhance your stay. All rooms have a private bathroom, free WIFI, a fridge and a TV.
Plus, they serve a great breakfast here (included!), which is great as you don’t always want to go on the hunt for food every morning – especially before early tours.
If budget allows, book a harbour-facing room for spectacular sea and mountain views!
Scandic Ishavshotel
Scandic Ishavshotel is another excellent option for solo travellers!
Located right on the harbour, its rooms have beautiful sea or city views, and the whole hotel feels thoughtfully designed throughout.
Rooms have been recently renovated, so are modern and comfortable, with a private bathroom, free WIFI, a fridge and a TV.
Plus, they serve an amazing breakfast and have a great restaurant on-site.
The hotel is also one of the most popular pickup points for tours, which is so convenient if you’re joining multiple excursions!
Being able to walk downstairs and join your tour without navigating icy streets in the early morning or late at night makes a big difference to how relaxed your trip feels!
Radisson Blu Hotel
The four-star Radisson Blu Hotel is a solid choice in Downtown Tromsø, with a great central location close to both the harbour and city centre.
And again, it is another one of the most common tour pickup and drop-off points in Tromsø.
I personally had both a reindeer excursion and an Arctic fjords and beaches tour depart from here, so if you’re a hotel guest, this makes logistics incredibly easy.
You can even book your excursions directly from the hotel when you arrive!
Plus, the hotel itself is modern and comfortable, with spacious rooms that offer a private bathroom, free WIFI and a TV.
There is even a sauna here, located on the roof, with the most incredible harbour views!
Thon Hotel Tromsø
Thon Hotel Tromsø is a three-star hotel, located close to the city’s main shopping street, Storgata. This is great if you want to be right in the middle of everyday city life!
Restaurants, cafés, shops and things to do are all on your doorstep, and everything feels very walkable and well-lit, which is a huge benefit for solo travellers!
Rooms are comfortable and functional, with a private bathroom, free WIFI and a TV.
They also serve a delicious breakfast at the hotel, included in the price.
Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromsø
If you’re looking for the best accommodation in Tromsø on a budget without compromising on location or comfort, the three-star Comfort Hotel Xpress is a great option!
Rooms are definitely smaller here, but they’re still clean, warm, and thoughtfully designed, with a private bathroom, free WIFI and a TV.
There’s no restaurant on-site, but the hotel’s amazing central location next to the main street, Storgata, means you’re surrounded by food options.
You can also add breakfast as an extra.
For solo travellers who plan to spend most of their time out exploring, this hotel makes a lot of sense. It gives you a safe, central place to sleep without paying for extras you won’t use!
This is actually the hotel I would’ve booked if I hadn’t gone for Ami Hotel.
Tromsdalen: Best for Budget Solo Travel
The neighbourhood of Tromsdalen sits just across the bridge from downtown Tromsø.
It’s a residential area with more affordable apartments, guesthouses and self-catered places than you’ll find in the city centre.
So if you’re travelling solo on a budget or you want a bit more space for your money, this area is a good choice (as long as you’re okay with being a bit further from town!)
Tromsdalen is well connected by bus, or you can walk within around 20 minutes, over the Tromsø bridge.
It’s also quieter, which some travellers love, but that also means walking back after dinner or a tour could feel more uncomfortable if it’s dark.
It’s great for solo travellers who:
- Don’t mind short bus rides into town
- Want more space for less money
- Enjoy a quieter, more local atmosphere
Things to do nearby:
- Visit the Arctic Cathedral
- Take a ride in the iconic Fjellheisen cable car for panoramic views
- Walk along the Tromsdal River
Best Hotels in Tromsdalen
Tromsø City Apartments
The Tromsø City Apartments are a great option if you want more space, your own kitchen, and a bit of independence without feeling isolated from the city centre.
The apartments are modern, clean and well set up for longer stays, especially.
Located in Tromsdalen, you can either walk the 20 minutes into downtown Tromsø or hop on a bus to get across the bridge.
Plus, the Arctic Cathedral and Fjellheisen Cable Car are within close walking distance, too.
And, of course, having a kitchen is a big bonus here!
As you’ve probably guessed, Tromsø isn’t cheap, so being able to make breakfast or a simple dinner will massively take the pressure off your budget.
Free parking is also available, which makes this one of the best places to stay in Tromsø if you’re renting a car.
Tromsø Camping
Tromsø Camping is one of the most affordable places to stay in Tromsø, offering cosy lodges in a peaceful, natural setting next to the Tromsdal River.
It’s quiet and calm, and it’s more natural setting feels very removed from the city, despite still being close to the Arctic Cathedral.
The cabins are comfortable and cosy, with a patio, free WIFI, BBQ and free parking.
Plus, you can choose between a private or shared bathroom, and some of the lodges even come with their own kitchen.
All lodges have access to the shared kitchen, which is so helpful for keeping costs down!
Although I will say that this is one option I personally discounted quite early as a solo traveller because of accessibility.
The nearest bus stop is around a 10-minute walk away, and you’re not within easy walking distance of the city centre.
I would say Tromsø Camping is best suited to travellers with a car.
Tromsøya Island: Close to the Airport
The wider Tromsøya island, outside of the city centre, is another more budget-friendly part of Tromsø, close to the airport.
It’s a practical, no-fuss area that’s perfect if you’ve got a late or early flight, or if you don’t mind being a bit further from the city centre to save money.
Accommodation here is more affordable than right in town, and hotels are designed with short stays in mind.
You won’t be surrounded by things to do, but there are transport links to the centre:
- The airport bus serves this area directly, stopping at the hotel I recommend: Moxy.
- Or, getting into the city centre takes around 10 minutes by public bus 28.
It’s great for solo travellers who:
- Have early flights or late arrivals
- Want easy airport access
- Don’t mind catching the public bus into central downtown
Things to do nearby:
- Use this area as a base for Northern Lights tours with pickups from Moxy Hotel
- Hop on the bus to Tromsø city centre for restaurants and attractions
Best Hotels on Tromsøya Island
Moxy Hotel Tromsø
Moxy Tromsø is located near the airport (around 3 minutes’ drive or 10-minute bus ride), and is also about a 10-minute drive or bus ride from the city centre.
The airport bus stops directly outside, which is a huge bonus when you’re travelling solo and don’t want to deal with expensive taxis or icy pavements with luggage!
(Been there, done that, pulling my suitcase through slush, snow and ice. It’s not fun!)
Inside the hotel, rooms are modern and very comfortable, with private bathrooms, free WIFI and a TV.
You can also enjoy breakfast in the spectacular panoramic restaurant or drinks in the Sky Bar, with sea and mountain views.
Some of the rooms also have these spectacular views.
Sommarøy Island: Nature & The Northern Lights
If you want to get out of the city completely and enjoy wide sandy beaches, dramatic open skies and a slower pace out in nature, the small island of Sommarøy is an unforgettable base for your trip to Norway.
It’s about an hour’s drive from the city centre, so you’re getting a completely different experience, but that’s what makes it so special!
Light pollution is minimal, and the views are stunning, making it one of the best spots near Tromsø to see the Northern Lights without having to join a tour every night.
The island itself is natural, unspoilt and underrated, home to just a small fishing community, making it a great hidden gem location to stay near Tromsø!
It’s great for solo travellers who:
- Love nature and dramatic landscapes
- Are okay with renting a car
- Want to see the Northern Lights from their accommodation
Things to do nearby:
- Walk along Sommarøy’s beautiful white sandy beaches
- Enjoy a picnic in summer
- See the Northern Lights in winter
Best Hotels on Sommarøy Island
Sommarøy Arctic Hotel
Sommarøy Arctic Hotel is by far the best option on the island for places to stay.
You can choose between a modern hotel room or apartment, or a traditional red rorbuer cabin, located right on the water, with spectacular views out to sea and across the beach!
All rooms are modern and comfortable, some with sea views and all with private bathrooms and free WIFI included.
And the setting alone is just incredible and well worth the visit, with turquoise water, white sand and mountains rising around you!
There’s also an on-site restaurant, which is important given how remote the island is, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner to guests.
Plus, the hotel offers its own excursions as well as a good chance to see the Northern Lights.
You can visit Sommarøy by car for the easiest and most flexible trip, or book a taxi or transfer and then join excursions at the hotel to explore more of the island.
Kvaløya Island: Nature & The Northern Lights
Kvaløya is a large island just outside Tromsø (only around 15 minutes drive, or you can take the bus) that’s perfect if you want nature without going completely off the beaten path!
It’s one of the best areas in Tromsø if you want easy access to hiking trails, scenic drives and the chance to see the Northern Lights from your accommodation.
A lot of the accommodation here offers its own excursions, where you can get out into nature and enjoy the scenery with hiking, Northern Lights chases, husky sledding, and even skiing or snowshoeing in winter!
It’s great for solo travellers who:
- Have a sense of adventure and want to see the Aurora
- Love landscapes and hiking
- Want a quieter stay
Things to do nearby:
- Visit Ersfjord and Kattfjord
- Try skiing or snowshoeing in winter
- Chase the Northern Lights (or see them from your hotel!)
Best Hotels on Kvaløya Island
Camp North
Camp North offers luxury tent accommodation in a spectacular natural setting that’s actually surprisingly comfortable and luxurious – even in winter!
Each tent has access to proper bathrooms, and the experience feels very safe and welcoming, which is perfect for solo travellers who want adventure without roughing it.
A delicious buffet breakfast is included, parking is free, and an airport shuttle is also available, which takes a lot of logistical stress off your shoulders.
They also run tours directly from camp, making this a really good option if you don’t want to plan everything independently!
Yggdrasil Farmhotel
Yggdrasil Farmhotel is one of the coolest hotels in Tromsø if you love slow travel, wellness and cosy luxury.
It’s set in a farm that’s located among beautiful coastal landscapes and mountains, and it offers spa facilities (a sauna and hot tub), yoga, and even the option of delicious home-cooked dinners!
You’ll stay in a cosy cabin and choose between a private or shared bathroom. Breakfast is also included, and the local owners are friendly, so it feels like a really homey stay.
There is also access to a shared kitchen and free parking on-site.
Hiking opportunities are also right outside your door, and Northern Lights sightings are common here on clear nights, thanks to the low light pollution!
Steam Pier Hotel
Steam Pier Adventure Hotel is a beautiful option with sea and mountain views, and a peaceful, modern atmosphere.
The rooms themselves are all comfortable, modern and beautifully decorated, with parking, free WIFI, private bathrooms, and some even with their own kitchen facilities.
This is a huge win for solo travellers who don’t want to eat out at restaurants every night!
Most rooms also have an incredible ocean view, and some have a private patio.
There are also easy bus connections back into Tromsø, making it more accessible than you might think. The bus 42 takes around 40 minutes to reach the city centre.
Plus, the hotel’s location makes it perfect for Northern Lights spotting on clear nights!
Comparing Neighbourhoods in Tromsø
If you’re feeling torn between areas, here’s a quick, simple decision guide:
If you want walkability and safety, or if it’s your first visit:
→ Downtown Tromsø, Ami Hotel
If you want affordability with good access to the city centre:
→ Tromsdalen, Tromsø City Apartments
If you want Northern Lights from your doorstep:
→ Sommarøy Island, Sommarøy Arctic Hotel
If you want to get out in nature:
→ Kvaløya Island, Yggdrasil Farmhotel
If you want easy airport access:
→ Tromsøya Island, Moxy Hotel
8 Quick Tips for Booking Hotels in Tromsø
- Prioritise location over luxury
- Check tour pickup points before you book
- Look for well-lit, walkable surroundings – close to restaurants/things to do
- Consider kitchen access if you’re staying more than a couple of nights
- If Northern Lights are a priority, think beyond the city
- Balance budget with peace of mind (cheapest isn’t always best for solo travellers)
- Book early in peak season
- Avoid short-term rentals if you can
Final Thoughts: Best Places to Stay in Tromsø as a Solo Traveller
Choosing where to stay in Tromsø isn’t just about finding the perfect hotel, it’s about choosing the right base that feels safe and comfortable – and that extends to the location!
Tromsø is a very safe city overall, but (especially winter) weather conditions, darkness, and proximity to restaurants, shops, things to do and tour pickups mean your accommodation choice will genuinely change how you experience the city.
My biggest piece of advice? Prioritise comfort and ease of getting around over all else.
When you know where you’re staying works for you, you’ll automatically enjoy your magical trip to Norway’s Arctic Capital even more – without unnecessary stress!
Where to Stay in Tromsø: FAQs
What are the coolest hotels in Tromsø?
For the places in and around Tromsø that feel a little special, whether that’s design, location or experience, there are so many great options!
Hotels like Yggdrasil Farmhotel and Sommarøy Arctic Hotel offer so much more than just a bed for the night, with spa facilities, spectacular views and amazing Northern Lights potential!
Plus, Clarion Hotel The Edge in Downtown Tromsø also earns a spot on this list, thanks to its harbourfront location, modern Scandinavian design and easy logistics for tours.
Also, I have to give an honorary mention to the coolest hotel near Tromsø: the Aera Cabins! You’ll stay in an incredible glass igloo, overlooking the sea and mountains, for the most spectacular bucket-list worthy stay!
What are the best budget hotels in Tromsø?
Budget in Tromsø looks different to anywhere else in Europe, because it’s never cheap! But some options offer comfort and location at a more affordable price point.
Ami Hotel is one of the best budget hotels in Tromsø for solo travellers because it combines price, location and comfort really well. The shared kitchen is a huge bonus, the staff are welcoming, and they even offer their own Northern Lights tour!
Another good option is Comfort Hotel Xpress Tromsø, which keeps prices down by offering smaller, basic rooms but still with comfortable interiors and a great central location.
Where to stay in Tromsø for Northern Lights?
If you want to see the Northern Lights from your accommodation, stay outside the city.
Light pollution in central Tromsø makes aurora sightings harder, which is why islands like Sommarøy and Kvaløya, a bit further out, are great!
Hotels like Sommarøy Arctic Hotel or Yggdrasil Farmhotel have little light pollution, dark skies, spectacular scenery and a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
But staying centrally doesn’t mean you’ll miss out. If you’re based downtown, you’ll have easy access to Northern Lights tours with expert guides who know exactly where conditions are best!
Is Tromsø safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, I found Tromsø to feel very safe when I visited as a solo female traveller in winter – even when I was walking around alone at midnight, after attending the Midnight Concert at Tromsø Cathedral.
Crime rates are low, locals are generally respectful, and the city centre feels calm but never isolated, even at night (thanks to late-night tours coming and going).
Most safety concerns in Tromsø aren’t about people but weather, darkness and icy streets.
That’s why choosing the right accommodation matters so much. Staying in a well-lit, walkable area like downtown Tromsø in winter will make a huge difference to how safe you feel.
Is it worth paying extra to stay in Tromsø city centre?
In my opinion, yes, especially if this is your first time visiting Tromsø or travelling solo.
Staying centrally makes everything easier, as restaurants, supermarkets, cafés, things to do and tour meeting points are all within walking distance.
City centre hotels are also located in areas that are better lit, busier and more easily walkable, which is why I would say downtown is the best area in Tromsø for solo travellers.
What about Airbnb’s in Tromsø?
I honestly don’t recommend Airbnbs in Tromsø. Short-term rentals have contributed to a real local housing shortage, making it harder for residents to find homes.
Many locals have spoken out about the impact and, as a solo traveller, I am always super mindful of my impact on a place (especially in smaller cities like Tromsø).
Also, from a practical point, hotels also tend to be safer and more reliable for solo travellers. You get staffed receptions, luggage storage and people around to ask for help if you need it.
Read More About Travel in Norway:
- Northbound vs Southbound Norway Coastal Express: Compared
- What to Wear in Norway in Winter? (+ Norway Packing List)
- How to Plan a Trip to Norway in Winter (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Norway vs Iceland in Winter: Ultimate Solo Travel Comparison
- Where to Stay in Bergen (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
- Where to Stay in Tromsø (+ Best Areas For Solo Travellers)
- Hurtigruten vs Havila: Which is Best For Solo Travellers?
- Is Saltstraumen Worth Visiting from Bodø? (+ What to Expect)
- How to Get Around Norway in Winter (Without a Car!)
- How to Visit Trollfjord: Northern Norway’s Most Iconic Fjord
- How to Visit Mostraumen Fjord (Bergen’s Best Day Trip!)
- 7 Things To Do in Hammerfest (Hammerfest Travel Guide)
- Mount Aksla Hike: How to Find the Best Ålesund Viewpoint
- 8 BEST Things To Do in Brønnøysund, Norway: Havila Port Stop
- 21 Most Beautiful Places in Norway You Have To Visit
