Explore More - 2019

TROMSO Named one of the

TROMSO Named one of the secret capitals of Europe by Time magazine, the spirit of the Vikings lives on in this ancient Norwegian city known as the "Gateway to the Arctic" If the huskies, seascapes, pristine surrounding tundra and the northern lights are not enough of a draw, northern Norway's largest city packs a punch when it comes to food, music and nightlife. Despite the warming effect of the Gulf Stream, seasons in Tromsø are acute: summer brings the midnight sun and around-theclock activities, while in winter the sun barely rises, making way for the dancing northern lights. You do not have to go far to sense the wilderness beyond Tromsø—it is here that Europe fragments into hundreds of frozen islands held together by fjords. Most of the city is on an island, linked to the mainland by the Tromsø Bridge. The illuminated Arctic Cathedral is at one end, contrasting the pre-20th-century wooden houses dotted throughout the city. For outdoor enthusiasts, Tromsø is a launch pad for the endless snowbound pursuits beyond, but the city itself has plenty to offer. Get a sense of the region’s geography and history from the Polar Museum, admire Hockney at the Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum or enjoy strolling around the pretty harbor and boutique-lined square of Tromsø Cathedral. MUST-SEES Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral is equally beautiful inside and out—Victor Sparre’s glass mosaic wall is one of the largest in Europe. Whales often congregate to feed in the fjords; your best chance of spotting them is to join a whale safari cruise. The Polar Museum may feel a little taxidermy-heavy for some, but a quick tour around the 19th-century wharf house is a great way to appreciate the many daring expeditions that have left the city. Get closer to Arctic life during a visit to Tove Sørensen and Tore Albrigtsen’s home, the Tromsø Wilderness Center, which they share with more than 300 huskies. When darkness falls, jump on the cable car up 421 meters to Fjellstua café to admire the city’s lights. From a field behind the cable car station, facing away from the Above: The dramatic tundra behind Tromsø Facing page, from top: Fresh fish is a popular local ingredient; wonders from the botanical garden; the Arctic Cathedral 18 VIKING.COM | EXPLORE MORE 2019

CITY GUIDE PHOTOS: © DRESDNER BAROCKVIERTEL KÖNIGSTRASSE E.V/ SYLVIO DITTRICH/ FRANK EXSS/ISTOCK/ WILD-PLACES/ZU_09 ILLUSTRATION: © HEATHER GATLEY city, at times the northern lights can be seen. EATING While Tromsø's burgeoning culinary scene stays true to its roots, championing fresh, local produce, it is not afraid to experiment; surprisingly multicultural, this city is not short of exotic influences. Whether your tipple is an Arctic seaweed cocktail or city-brewed Mack Pale Ale, there is so much on offer. Fiskekompaniet, a cool, upmarket, contemporary seafood favorite, offers starters and main courses fresh from the ocean. A long-standing popular choice, expect a changing menu and maritime view. Ølhallen serves up beer from 67 different taps and is Tromsø's oldest pub. It has stayed true to its early 20th-century origins when it was simply known as “The Hall”—a place where fishermen, farmers and townspeople could escape the everyday. If you are lucky, someone might take up the open invite to “entertain our guests” from the small stage while you drink. De 4 Roser is a European-style café beneath a more formal restaurant. It welcomes guests throughout the day for coffee, light meals and wine—it is regarded as one of Norway’s finest restaurants, focusing on quality local produce. Bardus Bistro takes great pride in having local roots with an international ambience—a winning formula if its popularity is anything to go by. Do not head home without sampling an artisanal cocktail and enjoying a dose of local nightlife at the Bardus Bar. Emmas Drømmekjøkken is spread over three levels, with the first floor offering casual dining. The menu offers a fusion of northern Norwegian cuisine and the latest global trends. Be sure to make a reservation in advance as it is a popular option. Go online: Watch a video of the Into the Midnight Sun cruise at voc.com/videos EXPLORE MORE 2019 VIKING.COM 19