From city centre hotels to remote aurora cabins on Kvaløya — where to stay in Tromsø for the best northern lights experience at every budget.

Where to Stay in Tromsø 2026

Tromsø is the most popular northern lights destination in the world, and accommodation ranges from £35/night hostels to £500+/night aurora lodges. Where you stay significantly affects your aurora viewing experience.

Best Areas

City Centre (Sentrum)

Best for: First-timers, nightlife, restaurants, easy tour pickups Price range: £80–250/night Aurora viewing: Limited — city light pollution. Join a tour that drives out of town.

The walkable centre has Tromsø's best restaurants, the Arctic Cathedral, Polaria aquarium, and Mack Brewery. All tour operators pick up from central hotels. Best for people who want urban amenities and will join guided aurora tours.

Kvaløya (Whale Island)

Best for: Aurora viewing, photography, peace and quiet Price range: £100–400/night Aurora viewing: Excellent — dark skies, mountain backdrop, fjord reflections

Kvaløya is connected to Tromsø by bridge (20 min drive). The west coast has some of Norway's best aurora viewing spots with virtually no light pollution. Stay here if aurora photography is your priority.

Sommarøy

Best for: Remote beach aurora, photography Price range: £120–300/night Aurora viewing: Outstanding — white sand beaches + aurora

A small fishing village 90 minutes from Tromsø. Famous for its Caribbean-like beaches (in the Arctic, yes). Aurora over white sand is an extraordinary photograph.

Budget (£35–80/night)

Tromsø Activities Hostel — Central, well-run, dorms from £35/night. They organise their own aurora tours.

Ami Hotel — Budget hotel in the centre, doubles from £70. No frills but clean and perfectly located.

Airbnb/apartments — Self-catering apartments from £60/night. Search Kvaløya for cheaper options with better aurora.

Mid-Range (£100–200/night)

Scandic Ishavshotel — Waterfront 4-star with harbour views. The most popular mid-range choice. From £120.

Clarion Hotel The Edge — Modern design hotel on the harbour. Rooftop bar with panoramic views. From £130.

Malangen Resort — 90 min from Tromsø. Sea eagle safaris, northern lights, whale watching. Aurora cabins with glass walls. From £150.

Luxury (£200–500+/night)

Lyngen Lodge — The premier aurora lodge in the region. Glass-fronted suites facing the Lyngen Alps. Chef-prepared meals, private aurora guides. From £350.

Tromsø Lodge & Camping (Glamping) — Lavvo (Sámi tent) glamping with aurora viewing. Surprisingly luxurious. From £200.

Sommarøy Arctic Hotel — Beachfront rooms and cabins. Aurora from white sand beaches. From £180.

Booking Tips

Book 2–3 months ahead for peak season (January–March)
Kvaløya Airbnbs are the sweet spot for aurora photographers on a budget
Don't pay for "aurora view rooms" in the city — light pollution means you'll need to drive out anyway
Car rental is recommended if staying outside the centre (£50–80/day in winter)
Tour pickups are usually city centre only — check with your operator if staying remotely

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I stay in the city or outside?

City for convenience and first-timers. Outside (Kvaløya, Sommarøy) for serious aurora viewing and photography. Many people do 2 nights city + 2 nights cabin.

Do I need a car?

Not if staying in the centre and joining organised tours. Yes if staying on Kvaløya or wanting flexibility to chase clear skies.

When should I book?

2–3 months ahead for hotels, 3–6 months for popular lodges like Lyngen Lodge. Last-minute deals exist in January.

Read our full Tromsø destination guide and 3-day Tromsø itinerary.