Not only is Tromsø the largest town north of the Arctic Circle, it also has a unique history that includes hunting in the Arctic Ocean for walrus and polar bears, the transporting of logs from Russian rivers, the Pomor trade, coal mining and sealing. The battle to survive in the hard but naturally resource-rich far north of Norway provided hard-earned experiences that, more recently, have turned Tromso into a research and education center.

Hurtigruten recommends that you visit Polaria, with its Arctic aquarium, seal pool, educational displays and a panorama cinema. Watch the movie 'Svalbard - Arctic Wilderness', which will take you on a fantastic journey through Svalbard's spectacular scenery. After the movie, go on an Arctic 'expedition', experiencing a close-up look at natural phenomenons such as the Northern Lights, tundra, and blizzards.

We also recommend the famous Arctic Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece and town landmark. Built in 1965, the design of the church was inspired by the beliefs and natural surroundings evident throughout northern Norway, and features a fantastic glass mosaic that's rich in both colors and symbols.