Tromsø bridge in winter with the Arctic Cathedral in the background
Vegard Stien

Driving conditions in Tromsø

The road conditions in Northern Norway are pretty unique and are often very different to the rest of Norway. There are quite long distances between towns and cities in the north, with many small roads often following the fjords along the coast.

The best source of information for the roads and road conditions is through The Norwegian Public Roads Administration's website.

You can also call for an English language version on the following:
From a Norwegian phone: 175
From an international phone: +47 815 48 991


Driving on winter roads 

Driving on Tromsø's winter roads requires extra caution and preparation. The roads can be slippery, and conditions challenging, so it's essential to adjust your driving style to ensure a safe journey. In Northern Norway, all vehicles must be equipped with winter tyres from 15 October to 1 May. Always check the weather and road reports before heading out, reduce your speed, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to navigate Tromsø's winter landscape safely.

If you're inexperienced with winter driving, it's advisable to consider using public transport instead. The Svipper app allows you to plan journeys, view departure times, and purchase tickets for buses and express boats in Troms. You can download the Svipper app from Google Play or the App Store. 

Alternatively, consider joining an organised activity where transport is included. Many tour operators in Tromsø offer packages that include transportation, ensuring you can enjoy winter activities without the concerns of driving in challenging conditions.

Quick winter tips

  • Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
  • Reduce your speed when navigating bends and junctions.
  • Carry extra winter clothing in your car in case of emergencies.
  • Keep a small shovel handy for clearing snow if needed.
  • Check the weather forecast before setting off.
  • Avoid stopping in the middle of the road; if necessary, find a safe spot off the road.
  • Allow other road users to overtake safely.
  • Wear a high-visibility vest when exiting your vehicle when it's dark out.

 

Driving on summer roads

Driving on the roads in Tromsø during the summer season often offers a more predictable and pleasant experience compared to the winter months. However, it's still crucial to prioritize safety. Given the increased traffic flow, including campers and caravans, but also cyclists and pedestrians, please be cautious when driving as the roads can be winding and steep, especially along the coastal area. Always adhere to posted speed limits, and keep an eye out for wildlife, as the region is known for its diverse fauna, which may occasionally cross the roads.

Quick summer tips

  • Be careful driving into tunnels on hot sunny days. Reindeer often go into the tunnel entrances to find a cool spot to relax.
  • We have 24-hours of daylight in the north from late May until late July. Due to the light people tend to keep driving for longer than normal. Make sure that you rest enough, take breaks and stop to sleep if you are tired.
  • When driving off the main roads, drive carefully as after the spring melt there may be some road surface damage that can damage your car.