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Things to do in Norway: Reindeer Rides
We met real reindeer when we went to Norway! We were paraded around in a sled through the snow! See more of our unbelievable experience on the blog!
Reindeer in Norway
What to do in Tromso, Norway: Reindeer Rides
One of our favorite adventures in Norway was a reindeer sleigh ride!
We booked our entire trip through Off the Map Travel, and they set everything up for us from hotels to activities and getting to and from everything. It was really nice that we didn't have to figure out how to get from the airport or how to get to this random place in the middle of Norway.
Reindeer in Tromso, Norway
REINDEER SLEIGH RIDES
Here's how our day went:
From our hotel, we walked over to the Radisson Blu and got on a small bus of about 14 people to the Tromso Lapland. It was a 20-minute drive to the Sami lavvu where we changed into a winter suit and gloves that they provided so our stuff didn’t get wet! BTW, see our guide as to what to pack for a trip like this: Packing Essentials and Check List for your next Snow Adventure
We jumped back on the bus and drove another 20 mins to the reindeer!
After a small hike uphill, the reindeer were waiting for us by our sleighs. I leaped to them (literally, I was that excited)! Of course, I had to pet them and take tons of pictures, which I'm sure they loved me invading their personal space. It's what I do best. ;-)
Soon after, we were all seated and ready for take off.
Reindeer Rides in Norway
The reindeer don't run quite as fast as the sled dogs, it's a slower paced, more peaceful ride. We did a large lap around the trees through the snow. We were all bundled up so it wasn't too cold! It was nice to take in the sites and experience Norway in such a special way.
White reindeer in Norway
This was a once in a lifetime experience. Not only did we have a reindeer ride, but we also learned of the native Sami culture. The reindeer ride consisted of about 7 or 8 reindeer pulling individual sleds. They are connected buy ropes and then all sleds are connected one by one.
At first, the guide was leading the reindeer up and around the hill and then hopped on the sled and away we went. Our ride lasted about 40 mins total and was very peaceful trekking through the freshly powdered snow.
FEEDING REINDEER
Feeding Reindeer
After our ride, they tied the reindeer in a more open area, where we were able to feed them! Most of the time they would knock the food out of my hands and almost force me out of the way with their antlers to eat the remains from the snowy ground. I did get to pet them, their fur is coarse and some of them even had fur fuzz on their antlers!
We then moved locations to a traditional Sami Lavvu (it looks like a teepee) where we had reindeer stew for lunch while being told stories of their culture along and even a joik (Sami song) was sung for us.
It wasn't quite reindeer leading Santa's sleigh, but still had an enjoyable time!
Related Post: We slept in a teepee in the snow! See why in: Where to Stay in Norway
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5 Days in Tromsø, Norway: A Winter 5-Day Tromsø Itinerary
Planning 5 days in Tromsø, Norway? Follow our real winter itinerary with dog sledding, reindeer, whale watching, Northern Lights, a Sámi lavvu stay and cross-country skiing — plus updated 2026 planning tips.
What is there to do in Tromsø, Norway during winter? PLENTY!
Northern Lights just outside of Tromsø, Norway
Updated October 2026: We took this winter trip to Tromsø nearly a decade ago, and it is still one of our favorite trips we’ve ever taken. Since tours, restaurants and travel logistics can change over time, I’ve updated this guide with current planning information for 2026 while keeping our original experiences and photos throughout. When something has changed since our visit, I’ve noted it below.
If you’re wondering whether five days in Tromsø is enough, we packed an incredible amount into our winter trip. We went dog sledding, rode through the snow behind reindeer, saw wild orcas while whale watching, slept in a traditional lavvu near the Lyngen Alps, tried cross-country skiing and chased the Northern Lights.
We originally planned the trip around seeing the aurora, but because the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, we made sure the rest of our itinerary would be worth traveling to Norway for even if the sky didn’t cooperate. That turned out to be one of the best decisions we made — and it’s still how I would plan a winter trip to Tromsø today.
❄️ Jump to Your Tromsø Adventure
Planning your trip? Skip ahead to the section you need.
❄️ 5-Day Tromsø Itinerary at a Glance
Dog sledding, reindeer, whales, Northern Lights & plenty of Arctic adventure
Our itinerary began in central Tromsø but we spent the latter part of the trip outside the city near the Lyngen Alps, so this is best thought of as a Tromsø-based winter itinerary rather than five days entirely within downtown Tromsø.
How We Planned Our 5 Days in Tromsø
Seeing the Northern Lights in Tromsø was the original inspiration for this trip, but we knew there was never a guarantee that we would actually see them. Instead of planning our entire vacation around the aurora, we filled our five days with other winter adventures we would be excited about no matter what the sky decided to do — including dog sledding, reindeer sledding, whale watching and cross-country skiing.
At the time, Josh was working with a producer whose friend had a travel company called Off The Map Travel, which specializes in Arctic trips. After a few emails back and forth, they created a Tromsø itinerary that we could adjust based on the experiences we wanted to include.
One activity I wasn’t immediately sold on? Sleeping overnight in a traditional Sàmi lavvu (teepee) in the snow. Josh thought it sounded amazing. I thought sleeping in a tent above the Arctic Circle sounded slightly insane.
I eventually agreed — and it ended up being one of the most magical parts of the entire trip.
The next steps were to book our flights and purchase warm clothes since this California girl doesn't know what to do in the snow but wants to build a snowman.
🧤 Planning your own winter trip? See my Packing Essentials for Snow Guide and Check-List before you go.
Getting to Tromsø, Norway
For our trip, we were visiting family in Syracuse for Christmas first, so we flew SAS from Newark to Oslo and then Oslo to Tromsø. There were no nonstop flights from New York to Tromsø, so Oslo was our connection before continuing north above the Arctic Circle.
That basic route still makes sense for U.S. travelers today, although there are now more ways to reach Tromsø. Oslo has frequent flights to Tromsø, and the flight north takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes. Tromsø also has seasonal and year-round nonstop connections from a growing number of European cities, so depending on where you’re traveling from, you may be able to connect elsewhere in Europe instead of Oslo.
Connecting Through Oslo
When we took this trip, we arrived in Oslo, went through customs, collected our luggage and checked it again before continuing to Tromsø.
This is one thing that has changed since our trip. Some international passengers connecting to a domestic Norwegian flight can now use Oslo Airport’s Domestic Transfer service and have checked baggage transferred automatically. Eligibility depends on your airline, itinerary and whether everything is booked on one through-ticket, so check your baggage tag and current Oslo Airport instructions when you travel.
Getting From Tromsø Airport to the City
Tromsø Airport is only about 5 km from the city center, making the final part of the trip surprisingly easy. We had transportation arranged to our hotel, but today travelers can also take an airport bus, local city bus or taxi. The trip between the airport and central Tromsø generally takes about 10–20 minutes.
Once we arrived, we checked into Clarion Hotel The Edge and our five-day Tromsø adventure officially began!
Day 1: Arrive in Tromsø + Evening Dog Sledding
After landing in Tromsø, we headed straight to our hotel in the city center, dropped off our bags and got ready for our first Arctic adventure: dog sledding at night!
Clarion at the Edge - Tromso, Norway
Where We Stayed in Tromsø: Clarion Hotel The Edge
For the first part of our trip, we stayed at Clarion Hotel The Edge, right on the waterfront in central Tromsø.
The location worked really well for us because we could easily walk around downtown and reach several of the meeting points for our tours. The hotel is also only about 10 minutes from Tromsø Airport, so it was an easy place to start our five-day itinerary.
Our room overlooked Tromsø Sound toward the Arctic Cathedral, and the beds were especially welcome after the long trip from the U.S.
Tromsø views
View from our room at the Clarion in Tromso, Norway
Their restaurant on the second floor had good food (and wine). Oh and they had the best sign:
Stressed Spelled Backwards is desserts! YES IT IS!
2026 Update: Clarion Hotel The Edge is still one of the most conveniently located hotels in Tromsø. It sits right on the waterfront in the city center, with airport transportation nearby and easy access to restaurants, sightseeing and many Arctic tour departure points.
Planning Tip: If you want to do several excursions from Tromsø without renting a car, I would stay somewhere in the city center. Many dog-sledding, reindeer and Northern Lights tours include transportation from central meeting points.
Presis had swings as dining room chairs
Dinner in Tromsø Before Dog Sledding
Before our evening dog-sledding tour, we grabbed dinner at Presis Tapas in downtown Tromsø. We shared several small plates before walking over to the Scandic Ishavshotel to meet our tour.
2026 Update: Presis Tapas has since closed, so I wouldn’t build it into a current Tromsø itinerary. If you're following our schedule today, I’d simply plan an early dinner somewhere in the city center before your evening excursion.
Upon entering, the candlelight from the tables gave a cozy and welcoming vibe, and my eyes lit up when I looked over observing that instead of chairs, some of the tables had swings! The four-year-old inside me wanted to run over and sit on one instantly, but instead, the hostess sat us at a table with plain old regular four-legged chairs by the window instead. It was probably for the better because I would have played on the swing and knocked over food, water, or a candle with the potential of lighting the restaurant on fire. So instead, I sat for a quick picture.
The food was delicious. We had their ham, bread with salt and olive oil, potatoes with a garlic aioli sauce, and spicy meatballs. It was the perfect amount of food for the 2 of us, almost too much!
🎿 Click here for our Packing Essentials for Snow Guide and Check-List
Getting acquainted with the dog before my evening dog sledding adventure in Tromsø
Evening Dog Sledding in Tromsø
We didn’t waste much time settling in. That same evening, we walked over to the Scandic Ishavshotel, where a small bus from Arctic Adventure Tours was waiting to take us out to their husky kennel.
The drive took about 30 minutes, and the second we arrived I wanted to run straight over to the dogs. They were bouncing in and out of their little houses, barking and clearly very excited that it was almost time to run.
Before heading out, we were given winter suits, boots, gloves and headlamps and went through a quick orientation on how to handle the sled.
Then the dogs realized it was time to go.
They immediately started barking and jumping with excitement.
Dog sledding pup sleeping
They were chained to little dog houses and jumping in and out of them, excited we were there to visit and give them attention! We were called into a room to suit up and get a winter suit, boots, gloves, and a headlamp for our sledding. It was probably for the better to wear their gear since the dogs were so smelly (but still so cute) it wouldn't stink up our clothes on our first day.
We had a quick orientation and headed to the sleds. The dogs instantly started barking and jumping with excitement when they saw us!
Our sleds and very excited huskies waiting to head out into the snowy Arctic night near Tromsø.
What Dog Sledding Was Actually Like
We rode two people to a sled and took turns riding and driving.
I definitely preferred riding!
Driving a dog sled is much more active than I expected. You aren’t just standing on the back while the dogs do all the work. When you go uphill, you may need to run or push alongside the sled to help the dogs, and you need to pay attention to braking and keeping the right distance from the team in front of you.
Once we started moving, though, it was incredible.
We raced through the dark Arctic landscape beneath a sky full of stars, with almost nothing around us except snow, dogs and the glow from our headlamps.
And then our dogs decided to make the evening a little more interesting.
At one point, our team became completely tangled and refused to keep going. Since we were the last sled, everyone else disappeared ahead of us while we sat there wondering if we had somehow managed to get lost in the Norwegian wilderness on our very first night.
Eventually we saw a headlamp coming back toward us.
We were saved!
Even our instructor had trouble untangling the dogs, but after a few more minutes we were finally back on the trail.
Our total sledding time was around an hour, and despite our little detour, it was easily one of the most memorable ways I could imagine beginning a winter trip to Tromsø.
How could you get mad at a face like this:
After the tour, we changed out of our wet clothes and warmed up with some hot cocoa in this traditional Sami lavvu.
Can You Still Book This Dog-Sledding Tour?
Yes. Arctic Adventure Tours is still operating in Tromsø, although the exact experience may have changed since our visit.
For the 2026–2027 winter season, its current self-drive dog-sledding tour lasts about four hours total, including transportation from Tromsø, with approximately 70–80 minutes of sledding. Guests still meet outside the Scandic Ishavshotel before traveling to the company’s kennel on Kvaløya. Thermal suits, winter boots and mittens are included.
The experience is active — you’ll help the dogs on parts of the trail — so this is not just a sightseeing ride.
Would I do it again? Absolutely. If you’re planning five days in Tromsø in winter, dog sledding would still be near the top of my list.
Reindeer Sledding in Tromso, Norway
Day 2: Reindeer Sledding + Sámi Culture
Our second day in Tromsø started with one of the experiences I was most excited about: reindeer sledding with Tromsø Lapland.
We left Tromsø and traveled out into the snowy countryside, where we met our Sámi guides and their herd of reindeer. Compared with dog sledding the night before, reindeer sledding was much slower and more peaceful — which gave us time to actually take in the incredible Arctic scenery around us.
Feeding Reindeer
Reindeer Sledding Near Tromsø
When we visited, our reindeer-sledding route was about 3 kilometers and lasted around 40 minutes.
We sat bundled together on the sled while the reindeer pulled us through the snow, surrounded by mountains and a seemingly endless white landscape. It felt completely different from anything we had ever done before.
And yes — the reindeer were just as adorable as I hoped they would be.
After the ride, we had the chance to spend more time around the animals and learn about their importance to Sámi culture and reindeer herding traditions.
Learning About Sámi Culture
The experience was about much more than simply riding behind a reindeer.
Our Sámi hosts shared stories about their culture, traditions and connection to the reindeer, giving us a glimpse into life in Northern Norway that we never would have gotten by simply staying in Tromsø.
Reindeer husbandry remains an important part of Sámi culture today, and many winter reindeer experiences around Tromsø combine time with the animals with storytelling, traditional food and an introduction to Sámi history and contemporary life.
This ended up being one of those activities that was both fun and genuinely interesting, and I’m really glad we made room for it in our five-day itinerary.
Reindeer in Norway
Can You Still Go Reindeer Sledding With Tromsø Lapland?
Yes! Tromsø Lapland is still operating, but the experience offered today is a little different from the one we took.
For the current winter season, the reindeer-sledding tour lasts about 4½ hours total, including transportation from Tromsø. The camp is approximately 50 minutes outside the city, and the current itinerary includes:
A roughly 20-minute reindeer sled ride
Feeding the reindeer
A traditional lunch of bidos, a Sámi reindeer stew, with alternative dietary options available
Hot drinks
An introduction to Sámi culture from a Sámi guide
Winter gear including snowsuits, boot covers, hats and mittens
So if you are recreating our itinerary today, don’t expect the exact 40-minute sled ride we experienced. Tour length and sledding conditions can also vary depending on the snow.
Would I still include this in a 5-day Tromsø itinerary? Absolutely. It was completely different from dog sledding and gave us a much deeper connection to the culture and history of Northern Norway.
Explore Tromsø
After returning to the city, we had some time to walk around central Tromsø before our evening plans.
Tromsø is compact enough that you can easily explore much of the downtown area on foot. If I were planning this trip today, I would intentionally leave a few hours open here rather than booking another major excursion.
Use the afternoon to wander the waterfront, browse the shops and cafés around the city center, or simply warm up somewhere before heading back out into the Arctic night.
And after two days packed with dogs, reindeer and snow, a slower afternoon felt pretty nice.
See our full story: Reindeer Rides in Tromsø, Norway
Drinks at Huken
Address: Storgata 39, 9008 Tromsø
That evening, we ate at Huken Pub, a tiny, cozy spot in downtown Tromsø that we loved for its casual atmosphere and hearty pub food.
2026 Update: The original Huken Pub location has since closed, but the Huken concept continues today as Huken Brygg at Storgata 39 in central Tromsø. The current restaurant still serves casual comfort food like burgers, baked potatoes and savory pancakes, along with drinks across its three-floor bar and restaurant space.
Huken Pub in Tromso, Norway
A storm came in so strong that the rain from it turned into icy roads. We were supposed to go out to see the lights but the bus wasn't going to be safe in the icy conditions and we had to cancel our tour.
We weren't surprised, it was still overcast and others who had gone out the night before drove 2 hours to Finland to see the Northern Lights, some weren't able to catch them at all.
Huken Pub brews
Instead, we went to Huken Pub right around the corner of our hotel. We had some time to kill, where we just wanted to sit and have a beer. This was the perfect place. The decor is unique, suitcases as tables and barn chic interior.
Huken Pub Bar
After a couple of drinks, we walked around for a bit and enjoyed the charm of this quaint town.
Streets of Tromso
Tromsø Cathedral glowing on a winter night in the heart of downtown Tromsø.
Tromsø Harbor at night, glowing with colorful lights along the waterfront.
Day 3: Whale Watching + An Overnight Lavvu Stay
Day 3 was a big one. We started the morning searching for wild orcas, checked out of our hotel in Tromsø, traveled toward the Lyngen Alps and ended the night sleeping in a traditional Sámi lavvu beneath the Arctic sky.
And somewhere in between all of that, we finally saw the Northern Lights!
Wild orcas surfaced all around the boats during our winter whale-watching trip near Tromsø.
Whale Watching From Tromsø
Whale watching was one of the experiences we were most excited about on this trip.
We booked our excursion through Off the Map Travel with Arctic Cruise in Norway (ACIN) and boarded the Arctic Princess, a Lagoon 450 catamaran, from Tromsø Harbor.
Because we were heading out on the water in the middle of winter, I was slightly concerned about just how cold we were going to be. Thankfully, warm waterproof suits were provided — although I still recommend wearing plenty of warm layers underneath.
Once we were out on the water, another tour company alerted our captain that they had spotted a pod of orcas.
We headed straight toward them.
And then there they were!
We saw a pod of around 10 wild orcas, surfacing between the boats as they moved through the fjord. Sometimes we could spot their distinctive white patches as they came above the water, while flocks of seabirds circling overhead helped give away where the whales were feeding.
No, they weren't leaping through the air like Free Willy — but seeing orcas in the wild, surrounded by snowy Norwegian mountains, was still incredible.
We watched them for what felt like almost an hour before the cold finally got the best of me. Even with all of my layers, my feet were freezing!
👉 Read our full experience: Whale Watching With Wild Orcas in Norway
Seeing wild orcas surrounded by snowy mountains was one of the most unforgettable experiences of our Tromsø trip
Important 2026 Whale-Watching Update
This is one part of our itinerary that I would plan differently today.
When we visited, the whales were much closer to Tromsø and we were able to take a relatively straightforward boat trip from the harbor.
In recent years, the whales have generally followed the herring farther north toward the Skjervøy and Kvænangen area. Because of that, many whale-watching excursions from Tromsø now take most of the day. Some travel north entirely by boat, while others combine a bus or minibus transfer with a boat excursion from Skjervøy.
Whale-watching season is typically November through January, although the exact timing and location of the whales can change from year to year.
Planning Tip: If whale watching is important to you, I would treat Day 3 as a full whale-watching day when planning a current Tromsø itinerary. Don't schedule another time-sensitive excursion immediately afterward.
And, of course, these are wild animals — sightings are never guaranteed.
Leaving Tromsø for the Lyngen Alps
After whale watching, we returned to Clarion Hotel The Edge, where we had arranged a late checkout so we could shower and change before the next part of our adventure.
Then it was time to leave central Tromsø behind.
Off the Map travel had arranged transportation toward the Lyngen Alps, where we met Ann Kristin from Aurora Alps. This would be our home base for the remainder of the trip.
Our original plan was to sleep in a cabin that first night.
I was relieved.
I had agreed to sleep in a traditional lavvu at some point during this trip, but I was still trying to convince myself that sleeping in a tent in the snow above the Arctic Circle was a good idea.
Then we arrived and learned that our itinerary had changed.
We were sleeping in the lavvu that night.
O.M.G.
The traditional Sámi lavvu where we spent the night, tucked into the snowy forest outside Tromsø.
Sleeping in a Traditional Sámi Lavvu
We grabbed our bags and followed a little illuminated path to the lavvu, which sat only a short distance from the main house.
And almost immediately, all of my worries disappeared.
The whole setup was enchanting.
Inside, candles and string lights gave the lavvu a warm glow. There was a wood-burning stove, plenty of firewood, a table filled with food, hot drinks waiting for us, a cozy sitting area and a separate sleeping space with sleeping bags.
This was definitely my kind of camping.
As long as someone kept that fire going!
Sleeping in the lavvu ended up being one of the experiences I remember most from our entire Norway trip.
👉 Read the full story: Sleeping in a Sámi Lavvu in Norway
2026 Update: Aurora Alps still operates its winter basecamp in Breivikeidet, about 50 minutes outside Tromsø, with activities including dog sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. However, I could not find our exact overnight lavvu experience offered as a current bookable stay, so I would consider this part of our itinerary an experience from our original trip rather than something you can necessarily recreate exactly today.
We strapped on snowshoes and headed into the snow to look for the Northern Lights near our lavvu outside Tromsø.
Snowshoeing Under the Arctic Sky
Sitting outside our lavvu were two pairs of snowshoes.
I thought they looked cute.
I had absolutely no idea how to use them.
Ann Kristin told us conditions might improve enough to see the Northern Lights that night and suggested taking the snowshoes out to a clearing nearby if the sky began to clear.
So we grabbed our camera equipment, Josh helped me get my snowshoes on, and off we went.
At first, the sky was cloudy with a light rain.
We waited.
After about 15 minutes, stars slowly started appearing as the clouds broke apart.
We were expecting the Northern Lights to suddenly appear as obvious bright-green streaks across the sky.
That's not exactly what happened.
Josh started taking pictures of what looked like faint glowing clouds.
Then he looked at his camera screen.
“THAT'S IT!”
There they were.
Green Northern Lights.
Our first Northern Lights sighting
Once we knew what we were looking for, we started pointing our cameras at practically every suspicious-looking glow in the sky.
Some of the aurora was much easier to see through the camera than with our eyes that first night, but we didn't care.
After having our Northern Lights tour canceled the night before because of the weather, we had finally seen the aurora in Norway.
And we still had two nights left to look for more.
Day 4: Dog Sledding + a Northern Lights Chase
After our night in the lavvu, we packed up and left our bags with Aurora Alps, who moved them over to the cabin where we would be staying that night.
Then we headed back toward Tromsø for something that was starting to feel very familiar by this point: more dog sledding!
Daytime Dog Sledding
Yes, we went dog sledding twice on this trip.
After our first nighttime adventure, we felt like pros when we arrived for our second dog-sledding excursion. We suited up, met another very enthusiastic group of huskies and climbed onto our sleds.
This experience ended up feeling completely different from our first one.
Instead of racing through the darkness beneath the stars, we could actually see the snowy landscape around us — although the weather wasn't exactly cooperating. It was rainy, and some parts of the trail had so much water that dog sledding started to feel a little like water skiing!
Eventually water found its way inside my winter suit, and I was wet and freezing.
Thankfully, after the ride we headed inside to warm up with lunch and plenty of hot chocolate.
Would I Go Dog Sledding Twice Today?
We loved both experiences, but if I were planning this 5-day Tromsø itinerary today, I probably wouldn't book two separate dog-sledding tours unless dog sledding was one of the main reasons for the trip.
Our nighttime and daytime tours were surprisingly different, so I don't regret doing both. But with only five days in Tromsø, I would now consider using this time to explore more of Tromsø or try another Arctic activity.
If you've never been dog sledding before, though, I would absolutely include one dog-sledding adventure in your itinerary.
Our daytime dog-sledding adventure near Tromsø gave us a completely different view of the snowy Arctic landscape.
Evening Northern Lights Chase
That evening was the excursion we had been waiting for: a dedicated Northern Lights chase.
We had already gotten our first glimpse of the aurora near our lavvu the night before, but this time we were going out with a guide specifically to find clearer skies.
Our private tour had been arranged through Off the Map Travel, and our guide picked us up directly from our cabin.
Instead of simply driving to one predetermined viewing spot, we looked at the weather and cloud cover and went wherever conditions seemed most promising.
And we drove.
And drove.
At one point, we even crossed the border into Finland in search of clearer skies!
This is one of the biggest things I learned about chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø: sometimes the best place to see them isn't anywhere near Tromsø.
We bundled up in practically every warm item we owned, brought all of our camera gear and made several stops throughout the night as our guide searched for breaks in the clouds.
Eventually, we found them.
The Northern Lights!
Northern Lights in Finland
Seeing the aurora with a guide was completely different from trying to identify faint green clouds on our own the previous evening. We could move with the weather, escape cloud cover and spend the night actively searching for the best conditions.
After several hours of chasing the aurora, we finally headed back to our cabin — cold, tired and very happy.
Do You Need a Northern Lights Tour in Tromsø?
You don't have to take a tour to see the Northern Lights. We actually saw them on our own near our lavvu the night before.
But after doing both, I think a Northern Lights chase is absolutely worth considering, especially if this is your first trip to Tromsø.
Guides monitor weather, cloud cover and aurora conditions and can drive significant distances to find clearer skies. Current Northern Lights chases from Tromsø commonly last around 5–8 hours, and some tours may cross into Finland when conditions are better there.
Important: If your tour may cross the border, bring your passport or national ID with you.
And remember: even with a guide, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon. No tour can guarantee that you'll see them.
My Biggest Northern Lights Planning Tip
Don't save your Northern Lights tour for your final night.
Weather in the Arctic changes quickly, and our first scheduled aurora excursion was canceled because of poor conditions. By booking your chase earlier in your trip, you leave yourself another night or two to try again if necessary.
For a five-day Tromsø itinerary, I would plan a dedicated Northern Lights chase around Day 2, 3 or 4 rather than waiting until Day 5.
We checked out of the teepee and stored our bags with Aurora Alps, which they brought them over to the cabin next door later that day. We went back towards Tromsø but stopped just after the bridge for our day dog sledding tour! There were so many cute smelly pups that were so happy to see us!
We felt like pros since we had already gone dog sledding at night in the dark! We put on our suits over our clothes and jumped on our sleds.
It was kinda rainy and it seemed like the path they were taking hadn't had snow in a while. In certain areas it was almost like water skiing which was fun but since it was raining, water had somehow leaked into my suit, and I was wet and very very cold.
We warmed up and had some lunch in the community room (and lots of hot chocolate!).
Winter in Norway
Day 5: Cross-Country Skiing + New Year’s Eve
By Day 5, we were exhausted.
We had packed so much into the previous four days that we finally let ourselves sleep in a little before heading out for one last Arctic activity: cross-country skiing.
Cross country skiing in Norway
Cross-Country Skiing Near Tromsø
This was my first time cross-country skiing, so there were definitely a few falls involved!
Once I got the hang of it, though, it was such a peaceful way to experience the winter landscape. We skied through quiet woods, surrounded by snow, and even spotted moose tracks along the way.
My thighs were definitely sore the next day, but I loved trying something completely new.
Partway through our outing, we stopped at a small cabin tucked away in the woods. There was no electricity, just a cozy fire where we cooked hot dogs and warmed up with hot chocolate from a thermos.
Before leaving, we signed the cabin's guest book and wrote that we hoped we'd return someday.
It was such a simple afternoon compared with some of our bigger adventures — and one of those little moments from the trip that I still remember.
Our cozy cabin near the Lyngen Alps made a peaceful home base for the final days of our Tromsø winter trip.
Can You Still Go Cross-Country Skiing Near Tromsø?
Yes. Aurora Alps still offers cross-country skiing from its Breivikeidet basecamp outside Tromsø, including experiences designed for beginners.
You definitely don't need to be an experienced skier to try it. I certainly wasn't!
If you're looking for a quieter winter activity between dog sledding, whale watching and Northern Lights tours, cross-country skiing is a fun way to slow down and actually enjoy the snowy scenery.
New Year’s Eve in Norway
Our fifth day also happened to be New Year's Eve, which made the final night of our trip even more memorable.
We had dinner in the main hall and then bundled up again around midnight to watch the neighbors set off fireworks.
Fireworks seemed to be coming from every direction, with neighboring areas putting on their own displays across the snowy landscape.
It was such a fun way to ring in the New Year above the Arctic Circle.
2026 Update: Norway currently allows private fireworks on New Year's Eve between 6:00 p.m. on December 31 and 2:00 a.m. on January 1, although local restrictions may apply. So the old 11:30 p.m.–12:30 a.m. rule in my original post is no longer accurate.
One Last Northern Lights Show
We thought the fireworks were going to be the grand finale of our trip.
Norway had other plans.
At around 1 a.m., the clouds began clearing and we noticed the Northern Lights glowing directly above us.
Out came the cameras again.
We stood outside watching the sky for a while before eventually heading back inside to warm up and start getting ready for bed.
Then Josh went outside for one more look.
A few moments later, he came running back in.
“Come out! Come out!”
This time, I didn't need a camera to tell me what I was looking at.
Northern Lights in Norway
Bright green streaks were visible across the sky.
One of the glowing bands became brighter and greener and then started moving across the sky.
The Northern Lights were dancing.
After spending the entire trip hoping we would see them — dealing with clouds, rain, icy roads and even a canceled aurora tour — there they were on our final night.
It was the perfect ending to our five days in Tromsø and a pretty incredible way to start a new year.
Even a softer aurora display felt magical against the dark winter sky near Tromsø.
As I was looking in the sky, one of the glowing clouds got brighter and greener and started moving! I turned to Josh and said, "look at that," pointing at the green streak of the aurora borealis!
The Northern Lights finally danced across the sky on our last night in Norway — the perfect ending to our five days in Tromsø.
This green streak only got brighter and brighter and danced across the sky, dazzling different colors of white, green and blue as it moved.
Watching the Northern Lights glow above our cabin near Tromsø was one of the most unforgettable moments of our Norway trip.
One Thing This Trip Taught Me About Seeing the Northern Lights
If seeing the aurora is important to you, give yourself multiple nights in Tromsø.
We didn't see spectacular Northern Lights every night. One tour was canceled because of weather. On another night, the aurora was much easier to see through our cameras than with our eyes.
And then, on our final night, they danced directly above us.
That's exactly why I wouldn't plan a Tromsø trip around one single Northern Lights excursion. Fill your days with experiences you'd love even if the aurora never appears — and give yourself several nights for the sky to cooperate.
Don’t forget to check out our packing list for your next snow adventure!
Would I Plan the Same 5-Day Tromsø Itinerary Today?
Honestly, mostly yes.
We took this trip almost a decade ago, but many of the experiences we loved most are still exactly what I would want from a winter trip to Tromsø today: dog sledding, reindeer sledding and learning about Sámi culture, whale watching in season, chasing the Northern Lights, and spending some time outside the city surrounded by Arctic scenery.
The biggest change I would make is doing only one dog-sledding tour instead of two. Our nighttime and daytime experiences were surprisingly different, so I’m glad we did both, but with only five days in Tromsø, I would probably use that extra half-day to explore more of the city.
I’d leave time to wander downtown Tromsø, walk along the harbor and consider visiting places like the Arctic Cathedral, Fjellheisen cable car or Polaria. We packed our original itinerary so full of excursions that we didn’t spend nearly as much time actually exploring Tromsø itself.
I would also plan whale watching as a full-day activity today. The whales have moved farther north in recent years, so current excursions can take much longer than the trip we experienced.
One thing I definitely wouldn’t change is giving ourselves several nights to look for the Northern Lights. Weather canceled one of our planned excursions, we had subtle aurora sightings on other nights, and then finally watched the lights dance across the sky on our last night.
So if I were planning these five days in Tromsø again, my ideal itinerary would still include:
One dog-sledding adventure
Reindeer sledding + a Sámi cultural experience
Whale watching if traveling during whale season
A dedicated Northern Lights chase
A winter activity like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing
Time outside Tromsø to experience the Arctic landscape
At least a few hours to actually explore Tromsø itself
The details may have changed since our trip, but the overall idea hasn’t: fill your days with Arctic experiences you’ll love even if the Northern Lights don’t appear, and give yourself several nights for the sky to surprise you.
That’s still exactly how I would plan five days in Tromsø today.
Tromsø Itinerary FAQs
Is 5 days in Tromsø enough?
Yes. Five days gives you time for several major winter activities while also giving you multiple nights to look for the Northern Lights.
What is the best month for this Tromsø itinerary?
For the closest match to our trip, I’d choose November through January. That gives you the best overlap of winter activities, whale watching, and Northern Lights season.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Tromsø?
Yes, but sightings are never guaranteed. Give yourself several nights since cloud cover and weather can change quickly.
Do you need a car in Tromsø?
No. Tromsø is walkable, and many popular winter tours include transportation from central meeting points.
Can you go whale watching in Tromsø year-round?
No. The main whale-watching season is generally November through January, and current tours often travel farther north toward Skjervøy.
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
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11 Hella Cool Things to do in San Francisco, California
Here is a list of our 11 favorite things to do in San Francisco including riding a cable car and visiting Alcatraz. | What to do and where to go in San Francisco, California.
San Francisco Skyline
11 Best Things to do in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is such a great city! We've been so many times, yet there is something new to do every time. With all the hills and located on the coast, there are spectacular views! We love being a tourist and they have some pretty great food there too! Here is a list of our FAVORITE things to do in San Francisco:
1. Ride a Cable Car
I always think of Full House when I see the cable cars. Your trip would not be complete without a ride on these guys! There are three cable car lines: the Powell-Hyde Line, the Powell-Mason Line and the California Line. There's even a cable car museum! It's about $7 to take a ride. Check out San Francisco’s official guide: How to ride a Cable Car
Ride a Cable Car
2. See the Painted Ladies
Address: Steiner St, San Francisco, CA 94117
Check out these iconic brightly colored Victorian beauties. Alamo Square Park, located directly across from the ladies, is the perfect spot to sit and enjoy them! If you're not singing the theme song to Full House in front of these houses, there is something wrong with you. Speaking of, the actual Full House house is located: 1709 Broderick Street, about a mile away. We walked to the Mrs. Doubtfire house instead see #10.
Painted Ladies in San Francisco
3. Check Out Alcatraz
This famous prison is in the middle of the bay, once home to Al Capone. Make sure you buy your tickets a couple weeks in advance, the earlier you go, the less crowds there are. Day tickets to The Rock are only $45, including the ferry to get there and the self guided audio tour. I dare you to try the night tour! Buy tickets here: Alcatraz Tours or Viator offers great bundles and you can get into Alcatraz and the Aquarium for $63!
4. Visit Lombard Street
Address: Lombard St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Check out the 8 crazy zigzag turns down the hill on Lombard Street. It’s fun to drive down!
5. Visit the Sea Lions at Fisherman's Wharf - Pier 39
Address: Beach Street & The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133
Grab a bite to eat, do some shopping and then come see these guys! There are hundreds of sea lions at times, swimming, barking, and splashing. I could sit and watch them for hours!
6. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Presidio of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94129
You can drive, bike, and even walk across this massive bridge, or enjoy from a beach nearby. Any way you choose, you can appreciate the beauty of this iconic art deco bridge. If you get to the other side, there is a park/lookout area to snap a few photos. This was taken from the Crissy Fields East Beach:
GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE FROM CRISSY FIELDS EAST BEACH
7. Walk through the Palace of Fine Arts
Address: 3601 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Take a walk through the Palace of Fine Arts walking distance from the Crissy Fields beach in #7! Appreciate the Greco-Roman architecture and lookout for turtles and ducks!
See if there are any events while you are there: Palace of Fine Arts Events
8. Get Ice Cream and Sit in the Park
Bi-Rite: 3692 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Bi-Rite is one of the best ice cream establishments in San Francisco. There is always a wait, but it is well worth it. Dolores Park is right across the street, which is a great place to enjoy city views and have some ice cream. The park isn’t always so crowded, it had rained all week and it was a warm beautiful day!
See our full BiRite Ice Cream Review here
9. Go Shopping in Union Square
Address: 333 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Shopping is one of my favorite activities and Union Square has some of the best stores: Macy's, Saks 5th Ave, Tiffany & Co, Nike, Apple, Williams-Sonoma, to name a few. Stop at the Burger Bar in Macy’s for Union Square views and a milkshake! If you go down Powell there are even more shops and a mall off of Market Street.
TONY BENNETT'S "I LEFT MY HEART IN SAN FRANCISCO"
Milkshake at the Burger Bar
10. Find the Mrs. Doubtfire House
Mrs. Doubtfire House Address: 2640 Steiner St, San Francisco, CA 94115
"Steiner Street. Oooh how lovely!" Quote from Mrs. Doubtfire, one of my favorite movies of all-time. There's even a Robin Williams tribute with people that have signed rocks in the planter. Here's what it looks like: inside the house.
11. Catch a Giant's Game at AT&T Park
Address: 24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107
Check out their schedule and buy tickets: Click Here
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Other things to do in Northern California:
Things to do Moorea: Buggy Ride Around the Island
Moorea is a gorgeous island with fantastic resorts! To get the best views, rent a buggy from Moorea Roadsters and take a ride around the island! Things to do in Moorea, French Polynesia. What to do in Moorea, French Polynesia!
Moorea is such a beautiful island! One of our favorite activities when we visited was when we took a drive around the island in a cute little buggy! We rented a little 2 seater buggy, which was like a small go-kart that went faster than you would expect, zooming around the island in about 4 hours. The road was super bumpy at parts but overall it was a blast!
Related Post: Top 10 Things to do in Moorea
How to Rent a Buggy
We rented our red buggy through Moorea Fun Roadsters. The Sofitel Moorea concierge assisted us in booking the car the night before, and without a problem, they delivered it to our hotel the very next morning!
We went back and forth between renting for 4 or 8 hours, but we decided to do the 4 hour which was the perfect amount to go around the entire island and make all recommended stops.
Where to Go in Moorea
A map was provided by the Moorea Fun Roadsters, including the best places to stop (which we did most all of them). They recommended the following:
Opunohu Bay (black sand), Opunohu Belvedere, archaeological and legendary sites, Agricultural High School (tasting)
Protestant Papetoai Temple, Churches, Dolphin center & Marine Turtle Clinic (Intercontinental), Tiki village (Polynesian Village)
Surf Spot, Cascasde in the Afareaitu Valley, Golf, Moorea Juice Factory & Distillery (tasting)
Cook's Bay
Tahiti Aromas Factory (Noni, Monoi, Vanilla, Coconut and Tamanu Oil Production Laboratory, Natural Tiare Essences.)
Driving Around the Island
We were on our way! We drove for 2 minutes and then saw a picture-perfect view of our hotel, so we pulled to the side of the road and stopped for pictures. 4 hours didn't seem like it was going to be enough!
We hopped back in and made our way to our first stop, Belvedere lookout. The road to the top was bumpy and unpaved most of the way, but it was totally worth it!
To our surprise, there were many wild chickens around the island (and bugs)!
This was our favorite site, we were able to experience Belvedere and all its beauty.
On the way back down from Belvedere, we stopped at the Moorea Juice Factory & Distillery for a quick refresher. The pineapple drink was delicious, it tasted like ice cream!
We continued on, with many unpaved roads and quick turns, but overall we were enjoying our buggy ride. We kept stopping to enjoy the sights, including the gorgeous aqua water.
We figured it would be a good idea to stop at the only grocery store on the island on the way back since we had a way to get there! We picked up a few things such as cheese and crackers to snack on in the room and needed a mixer to go with our duty-free liquor pickup. Unfortunately, we picked up concentrate instead of juice but had plenty of Mango/Orange drinks for days!
Returning the Buggy
Before you return the vehicle, just like renting a regular car, you have to fill it up but it doesn't use much gas and it cost about $8 to fill it back up!
This was a great way to see the island and get out of the resort for a little bit. We would highly recommend it to anyone who visits Moorea!
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10 Best Things to Do in Sydney, Australia for First-Time Visitors
Planning your first trip to Sydney? Here are 10 of the best things to do in Sydney, Australia, from the Opera House and Bondi Beach to the Blue Mountains, wildlife, Taronga Zoo and more.
Updated August 2026
Sydney is one of those cities that has a little bit of everything: beautiful beaches, incredible coastal walks, Australian wildlife, iconic landmarks, great food and one seriously gorgeous harbor.
We spent five days exploring Sydney and packed A LOT into our trip. From touring the Sydney Opera House and walking from Bondi to Coogee to meeting koalas and kangaroos, these were the experiences that stood out the most.
If you're visiting Sydney for the first time, here are 10 of the best things to do in Sydney, Australia—plus a couple of bonus stops we loved!
Planning a longer trip? Check out my 5-Day Sydney, Australia Itinerary for exactly how we fit many of these Sydney attractions into one trip.
This post contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting The Sweetest Escapes!
Best Things to Do in Sydney at a Glance
Tour the Sydney Opera House
Walk from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach
See the Sydney Harbour Bridge
Ride a ferry across Sydney Harbour
Get up close with Australian wildlife at Featherdale
Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains and Scenic World
Visit Taronga Zoo
Explore SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
Play at Luna Park Sydney
Eat gelato—obviously!
1. Take a Tour of the Sydney Opera House
You can't go to Sydney for the first time without seeing the Sydney Opera House, but I highly recommend doing more than just taking a picture of it from the outside.
We took a tour and loved getting to see the building up close and learning more about its history and architecture.
One thing that surprised me was the roof. From a distance, the sails look almost perfectly white, but once you're close you can actually see the individual tiles and the chevron-like pattern they create.
The inside is just as impressive. The Opera House contains multiple performance spaces, including the Concert Hall and its incredible Grand Organ, which has more than 10,200 pipes and is considered the largest known mechanical-action pipe organ in the world.
Even if you don't have time to see a performance, I think taking a tour is one of the best ways to experience this Sydney icon.
2. Get up close with Australian Wildlife at Featherdale
I LOVE animals, so Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park was probably one of my favorite stops of the entire trip.
This is where you can see so many of Australia's animals in one place, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and more.
When we visited, one koala in particular completely stole my heart. I loved him so much that I actually had my mom paint him from one of the photos I took so I could keep looking at that adorable face after we got home!
Featherdale currently offers opportunities to pat a koala and hand-feed kangaroos, wallabies and pademelons.
If seeing Australian wildlife is high on your bucket list, I would absolutely make time for this.
The easiest way to visit Featherdale from Sydney
Rather than visiting Featherdale by itself, you can combine it with a Blue Mountains day trip, which is essentially what we did. Our tour picked us up, took us out to the mountains and Scenic World, included the wildlife park and handled the transportation for us.
If you're only in Sydney for a few days, combining these attractions makes SO much sense.
🐨 BOOK IT:Blue Mountains, Scenic World + Featherdale Wildlife Park Tour
3. Walk from Bondi Beach to Coogee Beach
This was easily one of the most beautiful things we did in Sydney.
The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk stretches about 6 kilometers, or 3.7 miles, along Sydney's coastline and takes roughly two to three hours if you're walking at a leisurely pace.
Along the way you'll pass Bondi Beach, Tamarama Beach, Bronte Beach, Clovelly and eventually Coogee Beach, with ocean views pretty much the entire way.
Just don't underestimate it!
There are stairs, hills and very little escape from the sun in certain sections. We did the walk during summer and, even though we reapplied sunscreen, we still got burned. The Australian sun felt so much stronger than what we were used to in California.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat and something to cover your shoulders—especially if you're doing the walk in the middle of summer.
Pro Tip: You don't have to walk the entire route. If you're short on time, even doing part of the walk around Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte will give you some gorgeous coastal views.
Here’s a guided tour: Bondi and coastal walking tours.
4. See the Sydney Harbor Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge is another Sydney landmark that you really can't miss—literally. It's right across the harbor from the Opera House and somehow looks different depending on where you see it from.
You can walk across it, sail underneath it, admire it from Circular Quay or, if you're much braver than I am, climb it.
We were also lucky enough to see the bridge during New Year's Eve, when fireworks were shooting off of it. It was an unforgettable way to ring in the New Year!
If you're not visiting for New Year's Eve, don't worry. The Opera House and Harbour Bridge together are still one of the prettiest views in the city.
For a first trip, I'd make sure you see them during both the day and at night.
Want to see the harbor from the water? A Sydney Harbour sightseeing cruise is an easy way to get views of both the Harbour Bridge and Opera House without committing to a longer dinner cruise.
🚢 BOOK IT: Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
Under the Sydney Harbor Bridge
You have to check it out on New Years Eve!
Sydney Harbor Bridge Fireworks on New Years Eve
5. Explore SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium
If you're visiting Sydney with kids—or you're a big kid like me—SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is another fun stop.
We visited after scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef, so admittedly we had already been spoiled by seeing some pretty incredible marine life in the wild!
But the aquarium still gave us a chance to see creatures we hadn't spotted while diving, and I loved walking through the underwater tunnels with sharks and rays swimming around us.
Today, SEA LIFE Sydney is home to a huge variety of marine life, including multiple shark species, a rescued dugong and a penguin exhibit with king and gentoo penguins.
I probably wouldn't put the aquarium ahead of the Opera House or Bondi if you only have one or two days in Sydney, but it's a great addition if you have more time, are visiting with kids or need an indoor activity.
6. Visit the Blue Mountains and Scenic World
If you have enough time to take one day trip from Sydney, put the Blue Mountains high on your list.
The scenery is completely different from Sydney, and it makes a great break from the city.
One of the most famous viewpoints is the Three Sisters, but my favorite part of the day was Scenic World.
We rode over the eucalyptus forest on the Scenic Skyway, which travels between the cliffs high above the valley. Today, Scenic World's Skyway travels about 270 meters above the ravine, with views toward the Three Sisters, Katoomba Falls and Jamison Valley.
Scenic World also has the Scenic Cableway and the Scenic Railway—the latter is billed as the world's steepest passenger railway.
This is one of those places where I really appreciated being on a tour. We didn't have to worry about driving, parking or figuring out how to fit all of the different stops into one day.
Is a Blue Mountains tour from Sydney worth it?
For us, yes.
If you're comfortable renting a car and want complete flexibility, you can certainly visit independently. But for a first trip to Australia, I loved being able to get picked up in Sydney and let someone else take care of the logistics.
And if you want to visit Featherdale too, a combination tour lets you knock out two of my favorite Sydney-area experiences in one day.
🐨 BOOK IT: Blue Mountains, Scenic World + Featherdale Wildlife Park Tour
7. Visit the Taronga Zoo and Take in the Views!
Yes, there is another animal stop on this list. I told you I love animals!
But Taronga Zoo is completely different from Featherdale.
The zoo is built into the hillside overlooking Sydney Harbour, so you get beautiful views of the city while walking through the zoo. It makes for some pretty amazing photo opportunities.
Taronga is home to both Australian wildlife and animals from around the world, but I think the location is what makes it especially memorable.
And getting there is part of the fun.
You can take a ferry from Circular Quay across the harbor to the zoo, which means this attraction can double as your Sydney Harbour ferry experience.
Pro Tip: Taronga is built on a hill, so plan accordingly when deciding which direction you want to explore the zoo!
8. Visit Olympic Park
The park hosted the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, and you can still see pieces of that history today, including the Olympic Cauldron and memorials honoring the athletes who competed.
I wouldn't necessarily prioritize it on a very first visit if you only have a few days in Sydney, which is why I've moved it into the bonus section.
But if you remember watching the Sydney Olympics, it's really fun to see everything in person. They had the torch, the Olympic Cauldron that looks like a spaceship which was where the flame was lit the duration of the games, markers that noted how high someone jumped, who won each sport, and name of everyone who participated.
9. Find the Speakeasy, the Baxter Inn
If you're visiting Sydney without kids and love finding hidden bars, we had so much fun tracking down The Baxter Inn.
Part of the experience is finding it.
We headed down a nondescript alley off Clarence Street, through an unmarked entrance and downstairs into a dark basement bar that felt like we'd stepped into a completely different world.
It's known for its enormous whisky selection, but even if you're not a big whisky drinker, the atmosphere alone made it a memorable stop for us.
This is definitely more of a fun extra than a Sydney must-do, but I loved how completely different it felt from everything else we did during the trip.
Baxter Inn Speakeasy - Sydney, Australia
10. Play at Luna Park
After spending the day sightseeing, we cleaned up and took the ferry over to Luna Park Sydney.
You really can't miss the giant smiling face at the entrance!
Luna Park is an amusement park right on Sydney Harbour, with rides ranging from family-friendly attractions to roller coasters.
But want to know what our highlight was?
The slides in the fun house.
Josh and I raced each other over and over again for probably 30 minutes. We were DEFINITELY the biggest kids in there.
That fun house, Coney Island, is still part of Luna Park today and is actually a heritage-listed attraction. The park also now has newer rides including the Big Dipper roller coaster.
If you have kids, love amusement parks or just want to do something completely different after a day of traditional sightseeing, Luna Park is such a fun addition to a Sydney itinerary.
Plus, those Harbour Bridge views aren't bad either!
Buy tickets ahead of time here through Google Maps: Luna Park Tickets
Eat Gelato in Sydney!
It wouldn't be The Sweetest Escapes if I didn't tell you where to find something sweet.
And in Sydney, that means GELATO.
One of my favorites was Gelato Messina. They have tons of flavors and fun rotating specials, and yes, I think trying it should officially count as sightseeing.
We also loved Gelatissimo.
Did we need multiple gelato stops while we were in Sydney?
Of course we did.
After walking all those hills, coastal trails and zoo paths, I think we earned it!
If you see a Messina while you're exploring Sydney, do yourself a favor and stop.
Messina Ice Cream is my favorite!
Gelato from Gelatissimo is sooo good!
How Many Days Do You Need in Sydney?
I would give yourself at least four to five days in Sydney if you want to experience the city without rushing.
You can see many of the major Sydney attractions in three days, but adding a fourth or fifth day gives you time for the Bondi to Coogee walk, Taronga Zoo and a full-day trip to the Blue Mountains.
We spent five days in Sydney, and I loved having enough time to mix sightseeing with beaches, animals, food and a few completely ridiculous fun stops along the way.
For help putting everything together, head over to my 5-Day Sydney Itinerary next.
What Should You Not Miss on Your First Trip to Sydney?
If I had to narrow this entire list down, my five must-do Sydney experiences would be:
Tour the Sydney Opera House
See the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from the water
Walk at least part of the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains
See Australian wildlife up close
And yes, I would still find room for gelato.
Is Sydney Worth Visiting?
Absolutely!
Sydney gave us such a fun mix of city sightseeing, beaches, wildlife and outdoor adventure. I loved that one day we could be touring the Opera House and the next we could be hiking along the coast or hanging out with kangaroos.
Whether you're visiting Australia for the first time or adding Sydney to a bigger Australia itinerary, there is SO much to see and do here.
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More Australia Travel Tips
Planning more of your Australia trip? Don't miss
Phillip Island Penguin Parade from Melbourne: Our Tour + Penguins Plus Review
We watched the parade of little fairy penguins waddle in at the end of the day and return to their burrows! See why you can’t miss this cute event! | Things to do in Australia | Where to go and What to do in Melbourne, Australia #Melbourne #australia #penguins
Updated August 15, 2026
Phillip Island Penguin Parade from Melbourne: Tour + Tips
Address: 1019 Ventnor Rd, Summerlands VIC 3922, Australia
Viator Tour: Phillip Island Day Trip from Melbourne with Penguin Plus Viewing Platform
Phillip Island Penguin Parade from Melbourne
Watching hundreds of tiny penguins waddle out of the ocean and make their way home for the night was easily one of my favorite experiences in Australia!
We visited the Phillip Island Penguin Parade from Melbourne, where the world's smallest penguins return from the ocean to their burrows each evening around sunset. These adorable little penguins stand only about a foot tall and have the prettiest blue-and-white coloring.
They're officially called little penguins, although you may also hear them called fairy penguins or little blue penguins — and I still think "fairy penguins" is the cutest name ever!
We booked a Phillip Island Penguin Parade tour from Melbourne and upgraded to the Penguins Plus viewing area, which ended up being one of the best parts of the experience. The exact tour we booked in 2019 is no longer available, but this is the closest current option I found — and the one I would choose today.
If you're trying to decide whether the Phillip Island Penguin Parade is worth the trip from Melbourne, whether you should book a tour, or if Penguins Plus is worth the upgrade, here's everything you need to know before you go.
PHILLIP ISLAND PENGUIN PARADE AT A GLANCE
Where: 1019 Ventnor Road, Summerlands, Victoria
From Melbourne: About a 90-minute drive to Phillip Island, plus additional driving time across the island
When: Every evening around sunset
Our viewing area: Penguins Plus
Should you book ahead? YES! We booked at the last minute and got lucky.
Photos: No photography or filming after sunset
Don't have a car? I would book a tour from Melbourne.
🐨 Planning more of Australia? 🐨
🦘See How to spend 5 days in Sydney Australia with our full itinerary!
Penguin Parade in Melbourne, Australia on Phillip Island - Evening Tour
BOOKING THE TOUR
We booked our Penguin Parade tour through Viator: Phillip Island Little Penguin Parade Evening Tour to see the fairy penguins (it was about $100 per person)! Although we booked it the night before, we should have booked further in advance!
A bus picked us up near Finders Street Station in Melbourne (just down the street from our hotel) and the drive was just about 2 hours through the countryside outback! Our driver/guide was informative and kept us entertained for the duration of the ride, I just couldn't wait to see these little penguins!
Is the Phillip Island Penguin Parade Worth It?
YES!
We did a lot during our trip to Australia, but this is still one of those experiences that immediately comes to mind when I think about the trip.
There's something completely different about seeing little penguins in the wild rather than at a zoo or aquarium. You sit facing the ocean waiting for the sun to go down, and then suddenly you start hearing them.
And then they appear!
Little groups of penguins emerge from the water and start waddling across the beach toward their burrows. Before long, there are penguins everywhere.
It was adorable, fascinating and unlike anything we had experienced before.
If you're visiting Melbourne and love wildlife, I would absolutely make room in your itinerary for the Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
Should You Take a Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tour From Melbourne?
We did, and I would do it again — especially if you're staying in Melbourne without a rental car.
The Penguin Parade is located on Phillip Island, Victoria, outside of Melbourne. Public transportation on Phillip Island is limited, and the public bus doesn't actually take you all the way to the Penguin Parade. There also isn't a return public bus to Melbourne after the parade ends.
That makes a Phillip Island Penguin Parade tour from Melbourne one of the easiest ways to see the penguins without worrying about transportation or driving back to the city late at night.
Our tour picked us up near Flinders Street Station, just down the street from our hotel, and took care of the transportation for the entire evening.
Plus, our guide pointed out wildlife along the way, which is how we spotted our first wallaby in the wild!
A note about booking your tour
When we went, we booked our tour through Viator the night before.
I don't recommend doing that!
We got lucky, but knowing what I know now, I would book the Penguin Parade as soon as I knew which day I wanted to visit. Tickets can sell out, especially during holidays and other busy travel periods.
When you're comparing tours, pay attention to the viewing option included. Some tours include general Penguin Parade admission, while others offer the option to upgrade your ticket.
If I were choosing again, I would specifically look for a tour that includes or allows an upgrade to Penguins Plus.
Don’t forget to check out our Top 10 Things to do in Sydney, Australia
Our Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tour
Tour bus for the penguin parade
One thing I loved about booking a tour was that getting to Phillip Island became part of the experience.
After leaving Melbourne, we drove through the countryside toward Phillip Island while our driver and guide shared information along the way.
I was excited for the entire drive because... PENGUINS!
Once we reached Phillip Island, we had some time to get food, walk around and explore before continuing toward the Penguin Parade.
We could see the coastline and wildlife offshore, and our guide was constantly watching for Australian wildlife along the drive.
That's when we saw our first wild wallaby!
Seeing a wallaby in the wild in Australia felt like one of those "Yep, we're definitely in Australia!" moments.
FIRST WALLABY SIGHTING IN THE WILD on Philip Island!
HAD TO TAKE A WALLABY SELFIE!
Arriving at the Penguin Parade
Funniest and cutest parking lot sign - Please check under your car
We arrived in the parking lot and saw these cute signs warning to look under your car. Apparently, some of the penguins lose their way, ending up in the parking lot, hiding under cars. When you go, be careful, and triple check under your car before you leave!
We walked into their visitors center where they had another cafeteria and a gift shop. The tour came with a coupon for a free drink so we redeemed our coupon - the cafeteria had sodas and light snacks. I ran into the gift shop and had to get a magnet for our collection on our fridge!
SEATING FOR THE PENGUIN PARADE
Finally, it was time to get our spot for the parade! There were little pathways built to lead to the bleachers and among the path were some of the burrows of the penguins as well as more wild Wallaby!
The viewing section was set up almost like a football stadium where bleachers were set up facing the ocean, with paths for the penguins to come between.
WAITING FOR THE PENGUINS TO ARRIVE FROM OUR PENGUIN PLUS VIEWING SECTION
Is Penguins Plus Worth It at Phillip Island?
For me, YES. I thought Penguins Plus was absolutely worth the upgrade.
This was something we had traveled halfway around the world to see, and I wanted the best view we could reasonably get.
The Penguins Plus viewing area put us closer to the penguins, and once they started coming in from the ocean, some waddled incredibly close to where we were watching.
We arrived early so we could get a good spot and settled in to wait.
When we visited, there was also a wildlife ranger nearby who could explain what was happening as we waited for the penguins to arrive.
If you're already spending the time and money to travel from Melbourne to Phillip Island specifically to see the penguins, Penguins Plus would be my pick.
Especially if this is a once-in-a-lifetime Australia trip.
What Happens During the Phillip Island Penguin Parade?
THE FIRST FEW START THE PARADE, MAKING THEIR WAY BACK HOME TO THEIR BURROW
This is where the experience became magical.
At first... nothing.
We sat overlooking the ocean waiting for the sun to go down.
Then we started hearing the penguins before we could really see them.
Little penguins spend much of their lives at sea and return to land around dusk. Before coming ashore, they gather together offshore in groups called "rafts."
Then groups start making their way out of the water.
Some penguins confidently waddled toward shore while others seemed to change their minds and head right back toward the water!
They naturally wait for the darker evening hours because it helps give them some protection from predators.
Then more appeared.
And more.
And MORE.
Before we knew it, there were hundreds of tiny penguins waddling across the beach and making their way toward their burrows.
HUNDREDS OF PENGUINS COME BACK LOOKING FOR THEIR FAMILIES
During breeding season, some adult penguins return to their burrows to feed their chicks, and you can hear the colony calling back and forth.
The SOUND was one of the things that surprised me most.
There are penguins calling everywhere!
It was impossible not to smile.
The Best Part Happens on the Walk Back
As cute as it was watching the little penguins come out of the ocean, I think one of my favorite parts was actually walking back toward the Visitor Centre afterward.
The boardwalks take you through areas around their burrows, and suddenly the penguins are right there beside you making their way home.
We could watch them waddle along below us and get such a close look at how TINY they really are.
I could have stayed there all night.
Eventually, though, we had to get back on the bus and return to Melbourne.
But first...
We checked under the bus for penguins.
Obviously.
Can You Take Pictures at the Phillip Island Penguin Parade?
This is one thing that has changed from the way I originally wrote about our experience back in 2019, and it's important.
Photography and filming are not allowed after sunset during the Penguin Parade.
So once the parade begins, put the phone and camera away and just enjoy it.
I know. I'm a blogger. I want pictures of EVERYTHING.
But this is one of those experiences where you're better off being completely present anyway.
And trust me — watching hundreds of these tiny blue penguins waddle home is something you're going to remember without a picture.
Phillip Island Penguin Parade - Penguins heading back to their burrows
What Time Does the Penguin Parade Start?
The little penguins arrive around sunset, so the exact time changes throughout the year.
You'll want to check the expected penguin arrival time for the date you're visiting rather than planning around one specific time.
For General Viewing and Penguins Plus, Phillip Island Nature Parks currently recommends arriving about one hour before the expected penguin arrival.
I would rather arrive early, explore the Visitor Centre and get settled than be rushing in while everyone else has already found their seats.
What Should You Wear to the Penguin Parade?
Bring layers!
Even if Melbourne or Phillip Island feels warm during the day, you're sitting outside near the water after sunset, and it can get chilly and windy.
Depending on the season and forecast, I would bring:
A jacket or sweatshirt
Layers
Comfortable walking shoes
Rain protection if needed
Something warm for kids if you're visiting as a family
The Penguin Parade takes place outdoors in all kinds of weather, so check the forecast before you go.
Tips for Visiting the Phillip Island Penguin Parade
After doing it ourselves, these are the things I would want to know before going:
Book ahead. We booked the night before and got lucky, but I wouldn't plan a trip that way now.
Consider Penguins Plus. We loved having the closer viewing area and I would pay for the upgrade again.
Arrive early. Give yourself time to use the bathroom, grab something to eat and find your viewing area without rushing.
Bring layers. Phillip Island can get COLD once the sun goes down.
Put your camera away after sunset. Photography and filming aren't permitted once the parade begins.
Take your time walking back. Don't race directly back to the bus or parking lot! Watching the penguins near the boardwalk on their way to their burrows was one of our favorite parts.
Watch for wildlife. Wallabies and other native wildlife live around Phillip Island, so keep your eyes open throughout the trip.
Check underneath your car before you leave. I mean... there's a sign telling you to. And how often do you get to say you checked underneath your car for a penguin?
Is the Phillip Island Penguin Parade Good for Kids?
The Penguin Parade is definitely an experience families can enjoy, but there are a couple of things I would consider when planning with younger kids.
The biggest one is timing.
Because the penguins arrive around sunset, summer visits can mean a fairly late night — particularly if you're taking a tour all the way back to Melbourne afterward.
There's also some waiting involved before the penguins appear.
But once those little penguins start waddling in?
I can't imagine too many animal-loving kids NOT getting excited.
If you're traveling with younger children, I would look carefully at the length of the Melbourne day tour you choose. There are full-day tours that include several Phillip Island attractions as well as shorter afternoon/evening options focused more heavily on the Penguin Parade.
Phillip Island Penguin Parade FAQs
What are the penguins at Phillip Island called?
They're called little penguins and are the smallest species of penguin in the world. You may also hear them called fairy penguins or little blue penguins.
Does the Penguin Parade happen every night?
Yes! Little penguins return to the colony around sunset every evening of the year.
How far is the Penguin Parade from Melbourne?
Phillip Island is roughly a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, and the Penguin Parade is farther across the island once you cross the bridge. I would allow plenty of extra time, especially during busy travel periods.
Can you visit the Penguin Parade without a tour?
Absolutely, if you have a car.
If you don't have a rental car, taking a tour from Melbourne is much easier because public transportation doesn't go directly to the Penguin Parade and there isn't a public return bus to Melbourne after the parade ends.
Do you need to book the Phillip Island Penguin Parade in advance?
YES.
Tickets and popular viewing areas can sell out, so I would book as soon as you know which date you want to visit.
Is Penguins Plus worth it?
I thought so!
We chose Penguins Plus because this was a major bucket-list experience for us, and I loved getting the closer viewing experience. If your budget allows for the upgrade, I would choose it again.
Can you take photos of the Phillip Island penguins?
Photography and filming are prohibited after sunset during the Penguin Parade.
Take your photos earlier in the day and then put the phone away once the penguins start arriving.
What time should I arrive at the Penguin Parade?
Arrival time depends on sunset. For General Viewing and Penguins Plus, plan to arrive about an hour before the expected penguin arrival time unless your ticket tells you otherwise.
Is the Penguin Parade outdoors?
Yes. You'll be outside for the viewing experience, so dress for the weather and bring layers.
Would I Visit the Phillip Island Penguin Parade Again?
In a heartbeat!
We experienced so many amazing things in Australia, but watching the little penguins come home at Phillip Island remains one of my favorites.
I loved hearing them before we could see them, watching those first brave little groups waddle out of the ocean, spotting our first wild wallaby and getting an up-close view of the penguins as we walked along the boardwalk afterward.
And yes, I loved the ridiculous parking lot sign too.
If you're planning a trip to Melbourne, I would absolutely add a Phillip Island Penguin Parade tour to your itinerary.
And if you're wondering whether I'd spend the extra money for Penguins Plus again?
Definitely.
Now go see those little penguins!
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