Tromso Airport Layover? Guide & Tips

Top 5 Layover Ideas for Tromso Airport

If you find yourself with a long layover at the Tromso Airport (TOS), don't worry. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy and make the most of your time. Here are our top 5 layover ideas that can be done within 12 hours:

1. Explore Tromso City Centre

Just a short bus ride from the airport, Tromso City Centre offers a plethora of attractions. Visit the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece, or the Polaria Museum, where you can learn about Arctic wildlife and see real-life seals. Take a stroll through the beautiful botanical garden, or enjoy a meal at one of the many local restaurants offering Norwegian cuisine.

2. Take a Fjord Cruise

If you have enough time, consider taking a fjord cruise. Tromso is surrounded by stunning fjords and a cruise is the perfect way to experience this natural beauty. Some cruises also offer the opportunity to see wildlife such as whales and sea eagles.

3. Go on a Northern Lights Tour

Depending on the time of year, you might have the chance to see the Northern Lights. There are several tour companies that offer trips from Tromso Airport to prime viewing locations. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won't want to miss.

4. Visit the Tromso University Museum

The Tromso University Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the indigenous Sami people to the Arctic wildlife and geology. The museum is easily accessible from the airport by bus.

5. Relax at the Airport

If you prefer to stay at the airport, there are plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable. Enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants, shop for souvenirs, or relax in the airport lounge. There's also free Wi-Fi, so you can catch up on work or keep in touch with friends and family.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through TOS Airport:

Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of TOS's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Tromso airport's internet (free!)
For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near TOS to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have a layover at Tromso Airport that extends between 12 and 48 hours, you have the opportunity to explore even more of what the Tromso area has to offer. Here are some activities within a reasonable distance from the airport that you can do during an extended layover:

1. Discover the Magic of the Lyngen Alps

A couple of hours away from Tromso, the Lyngen Alps offer breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities. Depending on the season, you can go hiking, skiing, or even ice climbing. The area is also renowned for its unique flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

2. Visit the Island of Senja

As the second largest island in Norway, Senja is a hidden gem filled with dramatic landscapes. From rugged mountains and beautiful beaches to quaint fishing villages, there’s plenty to explore. It's about a three-hour drive from the airport, making it a perfect destination for an extended layover.

3. Explore the Sami Culture in Karasjok

If you're interested in indigenous cultures, consider a visit to Karasjok, the cultural capital of the Sami people. Here, you can visit the Sami Parliament, the Sami National Museum, and experience traditional Sami food and music. Karasjok is a four-hour drive from Tromso, but it's well worth the trip.

4. Take a Whale Watching Tour

During certain times of the year, Tromso becomes a prime location for whale watching. Several tour operators offer boat trips where you can see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It's an unforgettable experience that can easily be done within a day.

5. Enjoy the Scenery of the Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands are renowned for their distinctive scenery with dramatic mountains, open sea, sheltered bays, and untouched lands. It's a five-hour drive from Tromso, but the islands offer a variety of activities from hiking and fishing to bird watching and surfing. It's an ideal destination for an extended layover.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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Layover Ideas Tromso Airport TOS