Shopping · Tromsø · Norway
Shopping in Tromsø
Shopping streets, markets and souvenirs worth the suitcase space.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Kjetil r assumed (based on copyright claims)., CC BY-SA 2.5
Quick answer
Shopping in Tromsø centres on Storgata's outdoor-clothing, design and souvenir shops, Sami handicrafts and larger shopping centres on the outskirts of the city centre. Best souvenirs: Sami handicrafts (duodji), Norwegian knitwear and Cloudberry jam.
Key facts
- Shopping areas
- 3
- Markets
- 1
- Top souvenir
- Sami handicrafts (duodji)
Where to shop
Storgata
The main pedestrian street with outdoor-clothing stores, Norwegian design, bookshops and souvenir shops.
Nerstranda
A small shopping centre on the harbourfront in the centre.
Jekta
The largest shopping centre in northern Norway, a short bus ride north of the centre.
Markets
Christmas market
Seasonal stalls with crafts, food and gifts in the centre in December.
What to buy
Sami handicrafts (duodji)
Traditional items such as knives, woven bands, silver jewellery and leather goods; look for the Sámi duodji label for authentic work.
Norwegian knitwear
Patterned wool sweaters, hats and mittens from established Norwegian makers.
Cloudberry jam
Jars of the prized Arctic berry from supermarkets and delis.
Stockfish
Dried cod in vacuum packs, a traditional northern food that travels well.
Outdoor gear
Thermal layers, wool socks and winter gear from Norwegian outdoor brands.
Food and drink to take home
Edible souvenirs travel best when they are dry or sealed: consider Stockfish, Cloudberries, Waffles with brown cheese and Mack beer. Delis and supermarkets, and in dishes on traditional menus. Check your home country's rules on bringing food and drink back.
Shopping by neighbourhood
| Area | Price level | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Sentrum | $$$$ | Wooden houses, Storgata's bars and the harbour where tours depart |
| Tromsdalen | $$ | The mainland side across the bridge, with the Arctic Cathedral and cable car |
| Breivika | $$ | University district on northern Tromsøya with the botanic garden |
Paying and bargaining
Prices are in NOK. Service is included in Norwegian prices and tipping is not expected. Rounding up or leaving about 5–10% for good service is appreciated, and some travellers tip tour guides who go the extra mile.
When to shop
Shops and markets are quietest in May; the busiest months are February–March and December.
- January: Tromsø International Film Festival (usually mid-January)
- January: Northern Lights Festival — classical and contemporary music (usually late January)
- July: Bukta — open-air music festival at Telegrafbukta (usually July)
- October: Insomnia — electronic music festival (usually October)
- December: Christmas concerts and markets in the centre (December)
Staying near the shops
Questions travellers ask
+What should I buy in Tromsø?
Sami handicrafts (duodji), Norwegian knitwear, Cloudberry jam and Stockfish.
+Where is the best shopping in Tromsø?
Storgata: The main pedestrian street with outdoor-clothing stores, Norwegian design, bookshops and souvenir shops.
+What are the best markets in Tromsø?
Christmas market.