City & Polar History Walk, Tromsø

Discover Tromsø's Arctic history and follow in the footsteps of polar explorer Roald Amundsen on an absorbing guided city walk. Over three hours, you'll learn why the city is nicknamed the "Gateway to the Arctic" and explore the town's historic buildings, statues, and landmarks, including the striking Arctic Cathedral. Then, visit the Polar Museum and Full Steam exhibitions for an insight into Amundsen's expeditions and Sea Sámi culture and history. Perfect for history buffs, architecture aficionados, and those fascinated by polar expeditions.

After meeting your guide and group, you'll stroll Tromsø's charming streets, checking out key landmarks, including the Arctic Cathedral (Tromsdalen Church) and the gleaming modernist Town Library, inspired by the designs of Mexican architect Felix Candelas. Meanwhile, your guide will share insights into the region's deep connection to polar exploration and reveal why the city is nicknamed the "Gateway to the Arctic."

Your first stop is the Polar Museum, where you'll uncover Amundsen's life and adventures through photo exhibits and artifacts from his Arctic voyages. Hear your guide tell the story of the explorer's final journey in 1928 when he disappeared into the Barents Sea while flying on a rescue mission in the Arctic. You can pay your tributes to the explorer at the Roald Amundsen monument, close to his final home.

Continue winding your way through Tromsø's streets with stops at highlights such as Polaria, the world's most northerly aquarium, and Ølhallen, the city's oldest pub and gathering spot for fishermen and explorers. Then, dive into the area's rich maritime and fisheries history with a visit to the Full Steam exhibitions, where you'll learn about the culture of the Sea Sámi people. Your Arctic adventure concludes with a walk through Storgata, the city's main street, toward Framsenteret, one of the leading centers for research in Northern Norway.