How to go from the airport to the city center of Tromsø
After landing at the Airport of Tromsø, take the Airport Express bus, which will be waiting for you outside. You will easily recognize it for its red colour. You can book your ticket online here and check its schedules here.
City tours in Tromsø
As you ponder what to do in Tromsø during May, consider starting your journey here with a guided walking tour, the best way to get to know Tromsø city center. We recommend the Essential Tromsø: Historical City Walk, every Wednesday (10:30 am – 1 pm) or Saturdays (3 pm – 5:30 pm) or, if you enjoy craft beer, join our Tromsø Beer Safari for a taste of the city’s bustling nightlife, every Tuesday and Thursday (2:45 pm – 5:45 pm).
For a “cool” (literally) experience, we suggest you pay a visit to the city center’s Magic Ice Bar, for an adventure in a bar made of ice (open from Sunday to Thursday: 14:00 – 22:00 / Friday – Saturday: 14:00 – 24:00).
Last, but not least, you can’t leave Tromsø without taking the Cable Car* (or “Fjellheisen”) up the mountain for beautiful panoramic views of the city and around.
*closed for maintenance from May 13th to May 22nd
Boat tours in Tromsø during May
Embarking on a boat tour in Tromsø during May offers an exhilarating way to explore the stunning Arctic landscapes and vibrant marine life. Here are some top options for your adventure:
– Arctic Fjord Cruise, a 4.5-hour silent and peaceful cruise around Tromsø fjord aboard a hybrid-electric catamaran;
– 1-hour photo and history cruise, 1-hour peaceful fjord photography and history cruise, onboard the historical wood boat Hermes II;
– Midnight Sun/ sunset cruise, a 4-hour midnight sun tour through beautiful landscapes to see the open ocean under the enchanting arctic midnight sun or sunset.
With the midnight sun illuminating your adventures, May in Tromsø offers an endless day to discover the city’s treasures.
Arctic animal tours in Tromsø during May
Though it is not possible anymore to visit reindeer camps during May, you can still travel to Polar Park, in Bardu, approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes away from Tromsø (renting a car is needed). Here you can not only observe reindeer that roam free at the park but many other animals such as Arctic foxes, wolves, wolverine, lynx, bears, among many other Arctic animals.
In Tromsø you can visit Polaria, an Arctic aquarium where, besides many fishes from the Arctic, you can also observe seals (we recommend you check their feeding and training times, so you can observe this part of the day).
Wellness and Spa Life in Tromsø
If you enjoy self-care, relaxation, spa environments, heated pools and saunas, you should try the serene experience at Tromsø Badet (located at the top of the island, it’s a public pool with slides, jacuzzis, sauna, an outside heated pool, a wave-pool, among other facilities) or at Pust Sauna (located in the city center, with view over the water, where you can also jump and swim outside).
Weather in Tromsø during May
In May, Tromsø offers a relatively mild climate influenced by the Gulf Stream, which makes it an appealing destination for those looking to experience the Arctic spring. Here’s what you can expect weather-wise during your visit:
Temperature Variance: The average temperatures hover between a low of 36°F (2°C) and a high of 46°F (8°C). While it’s chilly, the Gulf Stream’s influence keeps it milder than other regions at similar latitudes.
Daily Sunshine and Light: Prepare for an average of 4 to 4.1 hours of sunshine per day. The length of the day rapidly increases throughout the month, offering extended daylight hours to explore the city.
Rainfall and Humidity: May experiences an average rainfall of 77mm over about 14.3 days, coupled with a high relative humidity of 85%. Packing a waterproof jacket might be a good idea!
Wind Conditions: The wind speed averages around 6.7 miles per hour, decreasing slightly as the month progresses. This makes for relatively calm conditions, ideal for outdoor activities.
Sea and UV Conditions: The sea temperature around Tromsø is quite cold at 43°F (6°C). If you’re planning boat tours, ensure you’re dressed warmly. Additionally, the UV index is low at 2, but wearing sunscreen during outdoor activities is still recommended.
This detailed overview of Tromsø’s weather in May will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Public parks worth visiting in the city within walking distance
Discover Telegrafbukta and its beach
With its pristine sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters, Telegrafbukta is the perfect destination for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty, within walking distance from the city center or Tromsø (approximately 30 minutes walking from Polaria).
It’s an ideal spot for a day of relaxation and adventure. For the brave at heart, a refreshing dip in the invigorating waters is an option, providing an exhilarating experience and a sense of accomplishment. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a leisurely picnic on the beach, savoring the stunning views and sipping on refreshing beverages.
As the day draws to a close, the beach transforms into a mesmerizing setting to witness the spectacle of the midnight sun, casting vibrant hues across the horizon and creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Experience Prestvannet
Nestled in the top of the island of Tromsø, Prestvannet beckons to travelers seeking a tranquil and captivating escape during the enchanting month of May. This picturesque lake, surrounded by lush greenery and teeming with natural beauty, offers visitors a serene retreat.
It provides ample opportunities for birdwatching and strolls along its pristine walking trails. As the vibrant hues of spring adorn the landscape, the lake becomes an oasis of tranquility, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating sights and sounds of the local flora and fauna. You can also take part in the timeless tradition of feeding the ducks that call the lake home, fostering a sense of connection with the area’s rich heritage and fostering cherished memories
Whether it’s observing the graceful flight of native bird species or simply reveling in the peaceful ambiance, Prestvannet promises a rejuvenating experience for all who venture there.
Understanding the Midnight Sun phenomenon
The Midnight Sun, a natural phenomenon occurring from May 20 to July 22 in Tromsø, offers you 24 hours of daylight. This occurs due to the Earth’s tilted axis relative to the sun, ensuring that the sun never sets below the horizon during this period.
Tromsø, nestled within the Arctic Circle, shares this unique experience with other regions like Bodø, the Lofoten Islands, and Svalbard, each offering varying durations of continuous daylight.
Celebrating Constitution Day
On May 17th, Tromsø comes alive with the jubilant celebrations of Constitution Day, commemorating the historic signing of the Constitution at Eidsvoll in 1814. This day is a vibrant display of Norwegian pride and culture, prominently featuring children’s parades, which has been a tradition since the first parade in Christiania (now Oslo) in 1870.
Tromsø’s streets are filled with the sounds of marching bands and the sight of children waving flags, embodying a festive spirit that captures the heart of the community.
Throughout this exploration of Tromsø during the vibrant month of May, we have journeyed from the breathtaking outdoor adventures under the midnight sun to the rich cultural immersion of Constitution Day. Tromsø in May is a symphony of experiences awaiting the intrepid traveller. The essence of Tromsø, with its mild climate and extended daylight hours, provides an ideal backdrop for both adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
As we reflect on the myriad of activities that Tromsø offers, it becomes clear that this city is not just a destination but a gateway to experiencing the unparalleled beauty of the Arctic spring. Each activity woven into the fabric of Tromsø’s daily life in May speaks to the heart of its charm.
Engaging with these experiences not only enriches the traveller’s journey but also connects them deeply with the spirit of Tromsø—a city that celebrates the convergence of light, life, and culture.
