Weather in Tromsø

Planning your day in the city of Tromsø? Check out the latest weather information, detailed forecasts, and charts in this section.

The climate of Tromsø can be characterized as subarctic, yet it is significantly milder than one might expect from a city located so far north. Thanks to the influence of warm Atlantic currents, extreme frosts typical of other regions at the same latitude are rare here. Overall, the weather is cool and quite humid, without sharp temperature fluctuations, making a visit comfortable for the prepared traveller.

Seasons here are distinct but have their own peculiarities. Winter is long and snowy, with average temperatures around -6...-7°C, creating a fairytale atmosphere of the polar night. Summer in Norway at this latitude is short and fresh: even in July, the warmest month, the air warms up to an average of +12°C, and maximum temperatures rarely exceed +15°C.

A characteristic feature of the weather in Tromsø is the high probability of precipitation throughout the year. The number of "wet" or snowy days is consistently high — from 14 to 19 days a month, so the sky is often overcast. When planning a trip, it is worth considering this variability and always having waterproof windproof clothing and warm footwear at hand.

Climatic conditions in Tromsø are shaped by its Arctic location, yet thanks to the warm Gulf Stream current, winters here are milder than one might expect at such a latitude. The coldest month of the year is traditionally January, with an average temperature of about -7.0°C. During this period, night-time figures may drop to -9.2°C, but extreme frosts happen rarely. From December to February, the city is in the grip of a real snowy winter, which is ideal for observing the Northern Lights.

The summer season in Tromsø is short and cool, bringing freshness instead of heat. The warmest month is considered to be July, when the air warms up to an average of 12.4°C, and daytime maximums reach a comfortable 15.2°C. Hot and humid weather here is a great rarity; summer rather resembles a mild spring in continental Europe. This time of year is famous for its Midnight Sun, when daylight lasts around the clock, allowing you to enjoy the nature of Norway without worrying about the time.

A characteristic feature of the local climate is the small range of daily temperatures. The difference between daytime maximums and night-time minimums is usually small, amounting to just 2–4 degrees during most months. Transitional seasons here are rapid: by May, positive temperatures set in (on average 4.2°C), and in October the air quickly cools down to 1.5°C, preparing the city for the return of winter.

Precipitation in Tromsø falls quite evenly throughout the year, so there is no pronounced dry season here. Travellers should be prepared for changeable weather: the number of days with precipitation is consistently high and varies from 14 to 19 per month. Regardless of when you plan your trip, having waterproof clothing and reliable footwear will be a mandatory condition for a comfortable holiday.

During the winter period, which lasts from November to March, as well as in early spring, precipitation falls mainly in the form of snow. Since the average temperature in these months stays in the range of -2.8°C to -7.0°C, the city is covered with snow, creating picturesque winter landscapes. Snowfalls here are a frequent occurrence (about 17–19 days a month), but judging by the amount of precipitation, they are more often light and moderate than heavy.

The summer season brings warming and a shift from snow to rain. The warmest month is July with an average temperature of 12.4°C; it is also considered the least rainy month of the year, counting on average 14 days with precipitation. However, already in August and September, the frequency of rains increases again to 18–19 days. In autumn, the weather becomes damper, and by October, when the temperature drops to 1.5°C, rains may give way to wet snow.

When packing for Tromsø, remember that the weather north of the Arctic Circle is changeable, so the main principle of your wardrobe should be layering. For a winter trip, when the temperature drops to -9°C, be sure to take high-quality thermal underwear, woollen sweaters or fleece jackets, as well as a windproof winter jacket or down coat. Don't forget warm accessories: a hat, scarf, and mittens (they keep you warmer than gloves) are vital for observing the Northern Lights.

Even if you are travelling in summer, do not count on heat: the average temperature in July holds around +12°C. Your suitcase must include a windbreaker, a light hat, and a raincoat, as precipitation falls here often — on average 14–19 rainy days a month all year round. Sunglasses will be useful in any season: in winter they will protect your eyes from the blinding snow, and in summer — from the bright Midnight Sun.

Pay special attention to footwear. For winter, choose insulated boots with thick non-slip soles to feel confident on icy streets. In summer, comfortable trekking trainers with water-repellent treatment are suitable, ideal for long walks around the city and its surroundings. We also recommend taking a portable charger with you, as phone and camera batteries drain much faster in the cold.