Introduction to Tromsø - Polar bear discovery walk

General information

This tour run by OK Tromsø takes you on a captivating adventure to some of Tromsø’s iconic sites and hidden gems, each housing intriguing stories of the Polar Bear – the King of the Arctic – from our fascinating past when the Polar Bear was nearly hunted to extinction to the present day when it stands as a symbol of climate change and the urgency to act upon these changes. 

Enjoy admission to the Arctic experience centre Polaria and the Polar Museum, including repeat visits on the same day. 

At the Polar Museum, the very heart of Tromsø’s Arctic legacy, we will uncover the intriguing tales of explorers, hunters and trappers, who brought back live polar bear cubs, sparking the rumour that these magnificent creatures roamed Tromsø’s streets. 

You will walk in the footsteps of Tromsø’s famous Arctic heroes and meet stuffed Polar Bears that serve as educational artifacts and reminders of the city’s peculiar encounters and the impact they had on local folklore. 

The tour ends at Polaria, where you will gain an insight into the challenges Arctic animals face due to the melting ice cap and shifting ecosystems through the new interactive exhibition about “The Changing Arctic”. This is the only place in mainland Europe you can enjoy a close-up encounter with the bearded seal, which also forms an important part of the Polar Bear’s diet. 

As well as getting a head start to your Tromsø experience with many useful tips and suggestions, you will gain a better understanding of the role we all play in preserving the Arctic habitat for future generations.

Why choose the “Polar Bear Discovery Tour”:

1. Memorable and Interactive Experiences: As well as visiting hidden gems, this unique tour includes admission to two of Tromsø’s must-see attractions – the Polar Museum and the Arctic experience centre Polaria – including repeat visits on the same day.
2. Local Perspectives: Discover Tromsø through the eyes of locals, gaining a unique perspective of the city’s folklore, legends and the Polar Bear tales that have shaped its identity.
3. A Great Introduction: Get a head start to your Tromsø experience with many useful tips and suggestions of other worthwhile places to visit.
4. Tromsø Off the Beaten Track: Enjoy exciting views and hidden secrets on this guided walking tour in downtown Tromsø and along the waterfront.
5. Climate Change Awareness: Raise your awareness of the effects of the changing climate on Polar Bears, encouraging a sense of responsibility and action towards a sustainable future. 

Practical information:

Latest meeting time and place: 9:45 AM (09:45) by Tromsø Cathedral in city centre

Departure time and place: 10:00 AM (10:00) from Tromsø Cathedral in city centre

Duration: 3 hours - 10:00 AM (10:00) to 1:00 PM (13:00)

Number of participants: 2 - 10

Level of difficulty: easy, but you must be able to walk about 2 kilometres

Included: 

• Local English and Norwegian speaking guide
• Admission to Polar Museum including repeat visit on the same day 
• Admission to Polaria including repeat visit on the same day 
• Discount on books at Polaria
• Reflectors (during winter)
• Spikes available (when icy)

Please bring: Warm clothes and wind and waterproof jacket and spikes when icy (there will also be some available)

Prices from

795 NOK per person

- Adult: NOK 795

- Youth (8-16 years): NOK 495