25 Delightful Things to Do in Copenhagen in Winter

view of some of the buildings in copenhagen's downtown area

Copenhagen is enchanting in every season I’ve visited, but I have to admit, there’s a unique magic to Copenhagen in winter.

And why wouldn’t it be?

After all, this is the homeland of hygge – that almost mystical word people say you can’t translate, capturing the essence of coziness and contentment especially in the cold months.

It’s no wonder then that every nook and cranny of Copenhagen exudes warmth and charm!

⌛ Planning your Copenhagen trip in a hurry? Here are my quick picks.

❄️ Best Copenhagen Tours & Experiences
1. Tivoli Gardens Entrance Ticket (+ option with unlimited rides)
2. Copenhagen Food Tour (small group tour or private tour)
3. Castles & Cathedrals Day Trip (Roskilde, Frederiksborg & Kronborg)

🛏️ Best Copenhagen Hotels
1. Motel One Copenhagen (funky 50s & 60s inspired design hotel)
2. Hotel Skt Petri (designer rooms & greenhouse-inspired luxury)
3. Steel House (value hostel in trendy Kødbyen)

Arriving in Copenhagen by plane? Book a trusted, easy airport pickup with Welcome Pickups.

Visiting a bunch of museums? Save money with a Copenhagen Card.
Lights and stalls at the Copenhagen Christmas Market

For me, visiting Copenhagen in December is as good as it gets, when the Christmas markets are at their full power.

However, a trip to Copenhagen in November also reveals the early whispers of its wintry charm!

This is the time when the city starts to don its festive feel, with lights sparkling on as the early-setting sun disappears and a cozy vibe settling in each night, heralding in the Christmas season.

By contrast, January and February in Copenhagen are both chillier and quieter, as the festive fervor subsides — but that doesn’t mean it’s worth worth visiting in those months, either.

No matter when you visit, the inviting cafés, the lively craft beer spots, the frosty canals, and the pastel-hued architecture promise to sprinkle some cheer on even the drabbest of winter days.

If you’re considering a winter trip to Copenhagen between November and March, here’s my bucket list!

And if you’re visiting other places in the Nordics this winter, like Tromso, Stockholm, Helsinki, or Rovaniemi, read my guides!

25 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen in Winter

Stroll around a cheery Tivoli Gardens

Lots of festive lights and ornaments and Christmas trees all set up for the festive winter season in Copenhagen.

Tivoli Gardens is one of Copenhagen’s most beloved treasures, and it’s so much more than what you typically think of when you think of amusement parks!

Come winter, this iconic Copenhagen landmark transforms into a mesmerizing winter wonderland.

Alongside fun rides, brilliant lights, and adorable market stalls, it boasts an extensive array of dining options and exudes that festive feel in every direction.

While summer is its primary season, Tivoli also throws open its gates for special occasions like Halloween and Christmas.

Before these times, the park takes a brief hiatus to deck itself out in festive splendor.

The Moorish Palace area of the Tivoli Gardens in the winter covered in snow

For 2023, Tivoli’s Christmas festivities are set from November 19th to December 31st, though it remains closed on Christmas Eve.

On weeknights, you can visit from 11 AM to 10 PM, and on Fridays and Saturdays, it stays open an extra hour until 11 PM.

Planning a December visit, the peak of Copenhagen’s winter season?

I suggest grabbing fast-track tickets ahead of time to ensure you have tickets and make the experience more seamless.

Simply purchase them online and present the digital copy on your smartphone upon arrival – bypassing both printing and any lengthy lines!

You can also purchase an unlimited rides plus entrance option, which can save you money if you plan to enjoy a lot of the rides.

But if you just want to absorb the ambiance, an entrance ticket will suit just fine.

Pro Tip: Admission to Tivoli Gardens is included if you buy a Copenhagen Card, so be sure to not accidentally buy both – pick one or the other!

Copenhagen Cards are valid in intervals of 24 hours from 1 day to 4 days, and include all public transportation, several dozen museums and attractions, and a canal cruise.

Depending on what you have planned, it can save you a bucket of money in otherwise-pricy Copenhagen, so check inclusions and prices here.

Eat your heart out on a delicious food tour

All sorts of Danish open-faced sandwiches called smorbrod with cold cuts, egg, pickles, tomatoes, onions, etc. on top of it, served with beer.

In recent years, Danish cuisine has garnered more acclaim, and there’s no better place to savor it than in Copenhagen, where it’s at its most creative, flavorful… and admittedly, pricey.

Opting for a food tour can make sampling a wide array of Danish dishes more affordable, plus it lets you taste the best of Denmark in a compact time frame.

I’m a staunch advocate for food tours; they’re a delightful blend of culture, knowledge, and gastronomy, guiding you to the city’s culinary gems.

In winter, these tours are the perfect way to walk with purpose from stop to stop, punctuated the cold walks with warm stops for delightful dishes and beer, before you step back into the chill.

And speaking of beer, Danish craft brews have lately been the talk of the town, and you’ll definitely be able to try them on a food tour!

I recommend this 4-hour food tour which includes beer tastings, traditional Danish organic hot dogs, smørrebrød, spread salads on rye, organic cheeses, and Danish sweets!

It’s affordably priced for how much you get to try — about the same price as two two-course meals out in Denmark — but you’ll get a cultural context and local tips at the same time as your meal.

If you don’t mind spending a bit more money, you can also book a private food tour like this one.

Get out of the city to explore some beautiful Danish castles

The annals of Denmark’s history teem with stories of Viking adventures, royal intrigues, and historic exploits — a true information feast for any history nerd.

The country’s historic castles and museums transport you back in time easily, and educate you along the way!

From Viking museums where you can see old reconstructed boats to romantic views from the castle walls, the Danish castles are awesome places.

A trio of notable sites – two castles and the renowned Roskilde Cathedral – lie in proximity to Copenhagen, making it a great day to spend a winter day out.

To visit all three, take a day trip to streamline your transport time.

If you’re opting for public transportation instead, I suggest that narrowing it down to one or two might be wise.

This eight-hour day trip offers a winter’s day well-spent, taking you through the corridors of Roskilde Cathedral, Frederiksborg Castle, Kronborg Castle, and the Viking Museum, with transportation included.

Tip: If visiting Copenhagen in December, book in advance, as that things in Copenhagen around Christmas tend to get really busy and they’re some of the most popular places to visit in Denmark in winter.

Enjoy the Copenhagen Christmas Markets.

Person celebrating excitedly at a Christmas market in Copenhagen with a white jacket and white hat and black gloves.

Tivoli Gardens isn’t the only place that gets in the Christmas spirit in Copenhagen!

Copenhagen’s markets are hygge embodied, radiating warmth, light, and festivity.

While there are a handful of markets spread across the city, there are a handful that stand out.

First on the list, the iconic Nyhavn Christmas Market.

Imagine the picturesque harbor of Nyhavn, already famous for its rainbow-colored townhouses and historic ships, now adorned with festive lights and stalls brimming with holiday treasures.

With the water reflecting the golden glow of the fairy lights, the atmosphere here is pure magic!

Stroll along the harbor, clutching a warm cup of gløgg (Danish mulled wine) as you peruse stalls selling handcrafted gifts, Scandinavian decorations, and mouth-watering Nordic treats like roasted almonds.

A stone’s throw away, in the heart of the city, the Højbro Plads Christmas Market is an elegant choice.

A christmas market at night in downtown Copenhagen with the word Christmas market lit up brightly.

Surrounded by the historic architecture of central Copenhagen, this market is a blend of the traditional and the contemporary.

Chic wooden stalls offer everything from gourmet chocolates and artisanal crafts to unique Danish designs.

Finally, for a dash of historical enchantment, the Christmas Market at Kronborg Castle in Helsingør is a must-visit.

Just a short train ride from Copenhagen, this market lets you step back in time to the regal castle that inspired Shakespeare’s Hamlet!

Picture this: a Renaissance castle, aglow with lights, surrounded by market stalls that seem straight out of a fairy tale.

Explore Copenhagen by night on a lively pub crawl

When the sun sets, Copenhagen just gets even livelier!

The city’s nightlife, renowned among the region, is best experienced through a classic pub crawl — unless you have a friend who can take you to all their favorite spots, it’s the next-best thing.

Taking a pub crawl presents a prime chance to mingle, dance, and sample Copenhagen’s nightlife scene to the fullest, led by a local.

For those unfamiliar with the city’s nightlife scene, I suggest a wallet-friendly pub crawl.

With 5 drinks included, each priced below $10, it’s a budget-savvy way to spend an electric night out in Copenhagen!

Go on a bike tour.

A winter house scene in Copenhagen with two beautiful buildings, yellow and green, and a bike

Danes don’t stop riding their beloved bicycles just because of a little snow!

So long as the ground isn’t too icy, cycling is one of the prime ways to explore Copenhagen—just remember to bundle up!

As is widely known, Denmark ranks among the top of the list of bike-friendly nations, making cycling tours a splendid way to spend a day in Copenhagen.

Either rent bikes from the city’s sharing system (details here) or opt for an organized tour where a seasoned local will share with you the history of the city.

On this fun three-hour bike tour, you’ll witness Copenhagen’s main sights on an easy, slow-paced bike tour.

If that’s not the tour you’re interested in, don’t worry — there are 11 more options here in this post all about Copenhagen bike tours!

Eat your way through Torvehallerne

A view of one of the popular bars in the food market of Copenhagen, at a bar called Omegn.

Torvehallerne, nestled at the city’s heart, is a colossal food haven offering a true smorgasbord (pardon the pun!) of choices.

Its indoor setting provides refuge from Copenhagen’s sometimes biting winter, the perfect setting to indulge in some of the city’s culinary finests!

In Copenhagen in winter, the food hall brims with life, with an array of stalls dedicated to locally-crafted Danish products and international foods.

It’s the ideal place to have a unique cup of coffee, or to indulge in some delicious pastries, as well as go shopping for fresh ingredients if you’re doing self-catering some nights to cut back on food expenses.

My top recommendations for unique places in Torvehallerne are the Mikkeller bottle shop for creative Danish beer and Ma Poule for coffee!

For food, check out Ma Poule‘s duck confit sandwich (drool), Lêlê Street Kitchen for Vietnamese banh mi, or Hallernes Smørrebrød if you prefer to eat the local food!

Snap photos of the colorful Nyhavn neighborhood.

Brilliantly painted houses in yellow, green, red, and blue, in front of a frosty canal with a boat

The former residence of the fabled Hans Christian Andersen, Nyhavn now stands as one of Copenhagen’s most picturesque locales with cute buildings in a kaleidoscope of primary colors.

Once a port town, it has evolved into an area dotted with charming revamped houses and gourmet eateries.

Come winter, the spirit of the holidays is palpable, with streets lined with festive stalls as Copenhagen Christmas markets take the spotlight.

It’s also a hub for canal tours, like the one below!

Go on a delightful canal tour.

As long as the canals don’t completely freeze over (which is relatively rare, especially given the current warming climate), exploring the city by boat in the canals is a delightful winter Copenhagen experience.

If you’re visiting in the months leading up to the New Year, a canal cruise is almost a given.

Later winter months may see the waters freeze over, but it’s not certain — don’t lose hope!

These boats come equipped with glass-encased, climate-controlled interiors, ensuring warmth as you sail past iconic landmarks like the Opera House, Christiansborg Palace, and the Black Diamond Library.

Tours predominantly embark from Nyhavn or Gammel Strand and typically last an hour.

You can pre-book your ticket here and show a mobile ticket so you don’t have to wait in line in the cold!

Take in the view from the Rundetaarn.

View over Copenhagen skyline as seen from the top of the Rundturn building.

The Rundetaarn (Round Tower) is actually Europe’s oldest operational observatory!

Commissioned by King Christian IV, it once positioned Denmark at the forefront of astronomy back in the 17th century.

While it has no major scientific purpose today, it’s still frequented by amateur astronomers (but mostly tourists, Instagrammers, and selfie-lovers).

To get to the top you’ll need to pass long spiral staircases, but you’ll be rewarded by some of the best sweeping views of Copenhagen.

Tip: If you get a Copenhagen Card, admission is free.

Visit the incredible National Gallery of Denmark.

View of Denmark's national gallery with a completely snow-covered field in front of it in the winter on a sunny day.

What says winter more than strolling through museums?

One you shouldn’t miss is the National Gallery of Denmark.

Home to Denmark’s finest art collections, here you can find excellent exhibitions, tours, and stunning architecture.

Here you can enjoy many of the grandmasters of art, both Danish and international, as the gallery is home to an incredible amount of diversity in the displayed works.

Artists like Rubens, Matisse, and Mantegna are some of the many whose work you’ll encounter.

There is a significant amount of contemporary artists on display too!

Explore Copenhagen’s contemporary art museums.

bright yellow contemporary art museum in roskilde denmark near copenhagen

There are other museums in Denmark which are certainly worth visiting, depending on what you’re a fan of!

Into modern art? Stop by the Arken Museum.

Another great choice is the Dan Frie Center of Contemporary Art.

A little further afield in Roskilde is the charming Museum of Contemporary Art.

Explore Denmark’s design scene.

The Danish Museum of Art and Design in Copenhagen on a sunny day with the door open.

All about Scandinavian chic design?

Learn more at the interior decor and Danish decorative arts at the Designmuseum Danmark.

The Designmuseum is open from Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 AM to 6 PM, with Thursdays enjoying extended hours til 8 PM.

Entrance is 130 DKK for adults ($18.50 USD) and free for kids under 17.

Between the ages of 18 and 26, or a current student?

You can enjoy a decreased admission cost of 90 DKK ($13 USD) for youth tickets with a valid ID.

Money-Saving Tip: If you plan a visit a few museums, definitely pick up a Copenhagen Card – the savings add up fast, especially when you factor in that the card also includes transportation and discounts to restaurants and other attractions.

Learn Danish history at the National Museum of Denmark.

The facade of the building that houses the national museum of denmark with a guard outside on a sunny day

You’ve noticed a theme here… Denmark is expensive.

Well, how does a free museum sound? Even better, how about the largest museum in the country being free?

The National Museum of Denmark is set in the stunning former Prince’s Mansion, a dazzling piece of rococo architecture dating back to the 18th century.

Originally built for Crown Prince Frederik V and his family, the mansion has played many roles: from a regal residence to a naval repository, and now, a mainstay of Danish history.

Step inside, and you’re immediately whisked away on a thrilling journey through time.

From Stone Age and Bronze Age artifacts from prehistoric Denmark to all sorts of Middle Age artifacts like medieval weaponry to its large ethnographic collection reflecting a collection from around the world, there’s so much to see!

Plus, there’s also a Children’s Museum, which is great if you’re visiting Copenhagen in winter with kids!

Enjoy a night out at the Copenhagen Opera House.

Winter low light at the end of the day with the lights of the opera house coming on, a modern delight on the water.

Amidst the architectural landscape of the city, the Copenhagen Opera House stands out as a wonderful interplay of modernity and elegance, sitting on the city’s waterfront, glittering in the water at night.

The building is exquisite, designed by the renowned Danish architect, Henning Larsen and finalized in 2005, cementing its place as a contemporary marvel of Danish architecture and its forward-looking gaze.

But its modern exterior belies its intriguingly opulent, old-world interior.

Think gold leaf and intricate woodwork and traditional plush red seating, exemplary of Italian opera houses like you’d find in Florence and Venice from centuries past.

While it’s called the opera house, you’ll also find ballets and concerts here: you can check the Opera House schedule online here.

There are all sorts of events, but the classic Christmas tale, the Nutcracker, is one of the biggest draws in December.

Tickets range from 225 DKK to 835 DKK ($32 USD to $119) which is pretty reasonable for a lovely night out on at the opera!

They also have several events per night, so definitely check their schedule and see what appeals to you most.

Spend a day at Copenhagen’s aquarium.

Where to go to escape the cold and feel like you’re on another planet?

The magical underwater world of National Aquarium Denmark (also known as Den Blå Planet, the Blue Planet).

This wonder of modern architecture is perched gracefully by the shimmering Kastrup harbor, with a whirlpool-like spiral that is as flowy as the watery exhibits inside it.

There are all sorts of exhibits here, like the Ocean Tank with majestic rays and the ever-awkward hammerhead sharks gliding past.

There’s also an Amazon exhibit, where you can see some of the famed river’s most feared denizens, like the piranha and the electric eel.

For something more tropical, admire the Coral Reefs tanks, which burst forth in a riot of color, with clownfish playing hide and seek amidst the tentacles of their anemone homes and all sorts of other brilliant reef fish.

But some of its best exhibits are a lot closer to home, like the Nordic Seas exhibit, showcasing otters and other cold water sea life, as well as the bird life of Denmark’s windswept Faroe Islands.

Tickets are 210 DKK for adults (around $30 USD) and 110 DKK for kids 3-11 (around $15 USD). Kids under age 3 are free.

The aquarium is open Mondays from 10 AM to 9 PM and Tuesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Visit the unique Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek museum.

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek museum with pastel pink and marble colonnades and arches

The excellent Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek (often just called the Glyptotek) is a real gem in Copenhagen.

This isn’t your ordinary museum; it’s a highly-curated celebration of artistry that traces back over 6,000 years.

Enjoy art ranging from ancient civilizations to beauties of the Renaissance and more modern temporary exhibits.

Amongst its ancient relics and timeless masterpieces, the Glyptotek offers a delightful surprise: the Winter Garden.

This lovely enclave of warmth and greenery is a oasis amidst the museum’s marble walls and Copenhagen’s chilly winters.

Here, under the shade of towering palm trees, you seem to momentarily escape the grasp of the Nordic cold.

It’s the perfect place to go escape when the Copenhagen winter gets to be a bit too much: the Glyptotek is the perfect warm cocoon of art, history, and greenery.

Stop for a deliciously brewed coffee.

Chic coffee shop in Copenhagen with lush faux-fur throws and paintings in a sleek, Danish design space

Winter and coffee make an impeccable pair, especially in the Nordic nations, where tehy know a thing or two about good coffee!

In fact, Denmark ranks fourth globally in coffee consumption, closely trailing its neighboring countries.

Copenhagen’s harsh winter—short, dark days coupled with the cold—almost requires massive caffeine doses to survive.

While slightly pricier than you’re likely accustomed to (unless you’re coming from Iceland or Norway, in which case, Denmark will feel free by comparison), Danish coffee is an experience worth splurging on.

Whether you’re stopping at a touristy café or a trendy coffee shop that specializes in single-origin beans, coffee costs usually around $5 USD per cup.

Since you’ll be paying a premium on your coffee anyway, you might as well enjoy one of Denmark’s finest cups of coffee and head to a specialty coffee shop!

My personal recommendation for a blend of top-tier coffee and Danish design is Copenhagen Coffee Lab in Amagerbro, but countless cafes across the city promise a delightful brew.

Warm up with some delicious ramen in Nørrebro.

A bowl of ramen served at the famous ramen shop in Copenhagen called Ramen to birru, with egg and cha shiu.

There’s no better winter food than ramen, in my book, and there’s no better ramen joint in Copenhagen than Ramen to Bíiru.

It’s the best-rated ramen restaurant in town, and even better – you can actually try Mikkeller beer (a Danish craft brewery) specially crafted to be paired with your ramen.

And the extra fun part: you get to order your ramen with a vending machine just like you do in Japan!

Copenhagen has become an increasingly diverse city over the years and it reflects in the cuisine.

While I love a smørrebrød or two, there’s only so much pickled herring a girl can take. So, thank god for immigration!

Nørrebro is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in all of Copenhagen and it’s where you can find delicious international cuisine from all over the globe. If you’re not feeling ramen, there are plenty of other options.

Two other fantastically belly-warming options are East African cuisine at Hidmona Eritrean & Ethiopian Restaurant or Michelin-starred Thai at Kiin Kiin.

As for Ramen to Biiru – we loved it. My friend went for the spicy miso ramen and I went for the classic shoyu ramen as my stomach is no longer to take spicy food the way it used to.

Both were phenomenal!

Prices are reasonable for Copenhagen, around 120 DKK ($18 USD) for a huge bowl of ramen.

End the night at one of Copenhagen’s craft beer bars.

The interiof of one of the craft beer bars in Copenhagen

Denmark is on the cutting edge of craft beer and WarPigs is one of the best-loved bars for beer lovers in town.

Yes, going out for a few beers in Copenhagen will be pricy – expect to pay around 60-90 DKK for a beer, with the most common price being around 80 DKK ($12) for a beer.

But you’ll be getting to sample of Denmark’s most creative brewers and support local entrepreneurs. 

One recommendation if they have it is the New England IPA by WarPigs called ‘Opposite Optimist’ – it’s delicious.

If none of the 22 taps at WarPigs suit your fancy, you’ll be in the heart of Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District (Kødbyen) so there’s plenty of other bars to hop around afterward!

Escape the cold with a good book.

Royal Library of copenhagen in winter with snow, red brick building, and symmetrical style.

Another free thing you can do in Copenhagen in winter is visit the Royal Library, which dates back to the 17th century having been founded by King Frederik III.

Once reserved for Denmark’s ruling class, now the library is a public escape for all, with vaulted ceilings and expansive rooms hosting everything from from medieval scripts to contemporary novels.

Visiting the library in winter is like a true warm cocoon of joy and learning. The soft lighting, the ornate carvings, and the seemingly endless rows of books make this the perfect escape!

Visitors can stroll through its grand halls, marvel at its rich collections, and even find a cozy nook to delve into a book.

While the main reading rooms are primarily for research, there are plenty of public spaces where one can bask in the library’s ambiance.

Best of all, entrance to the main sections of the library is absolutely free.

Enjoy Copenhagen’s unique public spaces.

Superkilin Park in the Norrebro area of Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a place known for its open spaces, and even in the winter, that’s still the case!

One of its more unique public spaces is Superkilen Park, where art, architecture, and activism merge to celebrate Danish multiculturalism.

The Black Square is at the heart of the Superkilen, where Copenhagen’s cosmopolitan energy shines through.

Whether its benches from Brazil, a Moroccan fountain, or a larger-than-life Kosovar chessboard, the elements of the park come from all different corners of the world, symbolizing a new idea of Danish identity.

Dress warmly and enjoy a wander through this multicultural urban landscape!

Admire inside and outside of Frederik’s Church.

The dome of Frederik's church seen at night with lamp light and light trails, a few people walking at night.

One of the most iconic landmarks, Frederik’s Church is known by locals as “The Marble Church,” beloved for its neoclassical design and opulence.

Stepping through its doors offers respite from the chilly gusts of Scandinavian winter.

Inside, the church’s vast interior is replete with marble and gold detailing complemented by mesmerizing frescoes.

During the winter, you’ll find occasional concerts for the Christmas season, where the acoustics interplay beautifully with the church’s architecture, as the choir, organ, and orchestra all create a beautiful sound.

A stone’s throw from the regal Amalienborg Palace, Frederik’s Church is a great place to visit in Copenhagen in winter.

Admire Copenhagen’s coolest bridge.

icy waters and modern bridge that connects denmark and sweden

One of the coolest winter spectacles in Copenhagen is the marvelous Øresund Bridge.

Stretching across the icy expanse of the Øresund Strait, this marvel of modern engineering connects Denmark and Sweden, symbolizing the spirit of Nordic collaboration.

Completed in 2000, it spans a staggering 8 kilometers, making it the longest combined road and rail bridge in Europe!

To truly appreciate the grandeur of the Øresund Bridge, take in the view from the Dragør Fort.

From here, the panoramic view offers a breathtaking sight: the white, modern architecture of the bridge stands stark against the icy waters, an interplay of blue and ice-white.

Take a day trip to Sweden!

View of a cathedral in Malmo from a low perspective looking up

If you’re an unrepentant country counter like myself, take advantage of Copenhagen’s position next to Sweden and pop over the border for the day!

This day tour brings you to two of Sweden’s most beloved cities on an easy day trip — Lund and Mälmo.

You’ll visit the ancient city of Lund with its church dating back to the 12th century and its Old Town houses from the 18th century.

Afterwards, you’ll end the afternoon in Malmö – the third-largest city in Sweden – before heading back to Copenhagen!

Be sure to check out the Turning Torso building, the largest skyscraper in all of Scandinavia, with a beautifully unique design!

It’s easy enough to get to either Lund or Malmö via public transit, but if you want to visit both, it’s easier to take a tour than coordinate public transit between all these points.

This day tour does it all for you and has over 70 positive reviews, so I’d suggest streamlining your planning and booking the tour.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

view of a neighborhood in copenhagen

Copenhagen hotels are pricy, that’s for sure.

I’ve been lucky enough to get to stay with friends the last two times I’ve visited Copenhagen – that’s the perk of having friends all over the world!

While I don’t have any firsthand recommendations, here’s what I’ve curated from my research.

Budget: Steel House

The best-reviewed value hostel in Copenhagen is Steel House, which is located in central Copenhagen near the trendy Kødbyen neighborhood.

With a perfect location, excellent Danish design, and nearly 6,000 positive reviews, it’s an easy choice and rooms are relatively affordable around the $30/night mark for a dorm bed.

Check availability and reviews here!

Mid-range: Motel One Copenhagen

Part of the allure of visiting Copenhagen is getting to experience the city’s unique perspective on interior design — and luckily, at Motel One Copenhagen, you can do that without breaking the bank.

This funky hotel is inspired by the 50s and 60s, with mid-century modern furnishings combined with retro aesthetics like geometric ceiling fans, unique color combinations, and brilliantly colorful rugs.

Right in the center of all things Copenhagen, you’ll enjoy a great modern hotel and a super convenient location, all for an affordable price tag (well, affordable for Copenhagen!).

Check availability and prices here!

Luxury: Hotel Skt Petri

Looking for a unique luxury choice? Skt Petri combines luxury and a nature feel all in one lovely hotel.

This funky hotel was once a department store and now has been turned into a whimsical hotel, with high ceilings and tons of floor-to-ceiling glass and mirrors, plant life, and green furnishing accents creating a greenhouse-like vibe.

And of course, since you’re visiting Copenhagen in winter, you’ll definitely want some of the lovely Scandinavian touches like a sauna and steam room to help you warm up after those cold strolls!

Check availability and prices here!

view of some of the buildings in copenhagen's downtown area

When planning any trip, especially a winter trip, be sure not to forget about travel insurance!

I use SafetyWing and its Nomad Insurance to insure all of my trips for its affordable rates and comprehensive coverage for all my travel needs.

Especially when you consider all the disruptions and potential for illness that winter travel can bring, it’s a no-brainer for me.

SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance provides both travel insurance (coverage for trip delays, cancellations, interruptions — the likelihood of which increases in winter) and travel medical insurance (coverage for things like accidents, illnesses including Covid, etc. — also more likely in winter!).

Coverage is really affordable — for me, it costs roughly $12 USD for a week of coverage outside of the U.S., with a policy max of $250,000 after a deductible of $250. Not bad!

Check SafetyWing for a quote here!

7 Epic Things to Do in Arches National Park in Winter

Among the five iconic national parks in Utah, often referred to as the Mighty Five, Arches National Park may be the most recognizable.

From Delicate Arch’s feature on the Utah state license plate to influencer snaps of natural arches across social media, most people need no convincing to visit Arches National Park once they know what it is.

In the summertime, the park is bustling with visitors, sweaty and eager to see all the top attractions in the park, and the roads can be clogged up with people trying to fit in all the hotspots on their Arches itinerary.

⌛ Planning your wintery Arches trip in a hurry? Here are my quick picks.

❄️ Best Arches Tours & Experiences
1. Half Day 4×4 Tour of Arches National Park
2. Full Day 4×4 Tour of Arches & Canyonlands National Park
3. Arches 4×4 Tour & Hiking Experience

🛏️ Best Arches NP Area Hotels
1. Red Cliffs Lodge (comfortable lodge at mid-range prices)
2. Under Canvas Moab (gorgeous glamping with wood stoves for heat)
3. Element Moab (budget-friendly, spacious rooms)

Arriving in Utah by plane and driving to Arches?
→  Book your rental car here!
A family in winter clothing hiking in Arches National Park in winter at the Windows Arch area on a cloudy day

On the other hand, winter is a much more serene season in Arches.

In addition to its quieter crowds, its natural beauty is emphasized when the occasional dusting of fresh snowfall creates a stark white contrast to the naturally-red canyon walls and natural arches.

Although daily visitors tend to drop correspondingly with the lowering temperatures, there’s still a ton to do in Arches National Park in winter!

Things to Do in Arches National Park in Winter

Take a scenic drive through the park.

View from afar of the beautiful Turret Arch (which looks like a castle made of natural rock arch) against a backdrop of snow-covered tall mountains, with some light snow on the ground as well.

Embark on a picturesque journey through Arches National Park by car, meandering through its striking red rock formations.

Luckily for those who want to avoid the winter cold as much as possible, many of the park’s iconic attractions can be admired right from the comfort of your car.

For those colder winter days, taking the scenic drive of Arches in winter outlined below offers a cozy way to explore.

Crank up the car heater and enjoy a warm Thermos of hot chocolate!

Start your journey from the park’s main entrance, with a brief pit stop at the visitor center to get oriented, before you make your way through the main scenic route.

If you can allocate about 5 hours, you’ll have ample time to navigate all the paved routes within the park, allotting a leisurely 10-15 minutes at each viewpoint.

As you cruise through the captivating landscape of Arches National Park, make sure to take detours to The Windows Section, Wolfe Ranch, and the Delicate Arch Viewpoint.

These spots are undoubtedly among the park’s prime attractions accessible by car.

Hike to the scenic Delicate Arch.

A view of a single orange sandstone arch against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains and a blue sky.

If you were to have to make the difficult decision of just one winter hike in your visit to Arches National Park, the Delicate Arch Trail should be at the top of your list!

The 3-mile roundtrip journey brings you up close and personal with the larger-than-life.

It takes approximately 2-3 hours, varying with conditions — owing to the trail’s terrain icy patches are common.

It’s wise to pack some crampons for icy terrains, though refrain from using them on exposed sandstone since that can damage the landscape.

What makes this the premier winter hike in the park? Isn’t it obvious?

It’s all about the awe-inspiring backdrop of the snow-clad La Sal Mountains behind Delicate Arch, an icon of the park: a truly unparalleled panorama.

Take a hike to Landscape Arch.

the landscape of the devils garden area of arches national park, with a view of landscape arch with snow and a tree and a blue sky in the background. this is the largest arch in the world

In winter and summer alike, Devil’s Garden stands out as a favorite hiking spot in Arches National Park.

In winter, it’s a good choice due to its relatively smooth trails and a series of magnificent arches.

Two primary trails beckon: one leading to Landscape Arch and another to Double O Arch (detailed below).

Landscape Arch, a marvel within the Devil’s Garden, boasts the title of North America’s longest arch, spanning an impressive 306 feet!

Although a section of the arch fell in the 1990s, it still stands as a complete arch — at its thinnest, it measures a mere 6 feet across.

The 2-mile roundtrip to the Landscape Arch serves as a fantastic midpoint for those who don’t want too much of a challenge.

Make the longer trek out to Double O Arch.

The famous Double O Arch in winter, two arches one on top of the other in the winter snow with a sunburst coming through the top arch.

For those seeking an added dash of challenge, extending the hike to Double O Arch is a must, but be careful in snowy conditions.

The trail’s terrain is uneven, and certain stretches have narrow pathways flanked by steep drop-offs.

In snowy and icy conditions, this hike should be reserved for the adept winter hiker!

Spanning just over 4 miles roundtrip, the journey to Double O Arch is demanding but promises unmatched rewards, even with winter’s added challenges.

Enjoy some winter photography.

A view of a hiker as seen through a large circular arch, entering a winter wonderland of red rock and snow.

If you are lucky enough to visit Arches National Park soon after a fresh snowfall, you simply must explore the park with a camera in hand!

The fresh powdery snow lining the red rock features and magnificent natural arches is something that very few people are lucky enough to see in person.

Although Arches National Park does typically receive a half-foot of snow each year, it melts quickly once met by sunshine.

Some of the best places to explore for winter landscape photography are The Windows Section and Devils Garden.

Both of these areas offer maintained hiking trails and opportunities to photograph snowy arches.

Take a 4×4 tour of Arches (and maybe Canyonlands!)

A sunrise view of a snow-covered Mesa Arch illuminating the canyon below, lots of detail covered in snow, on a cloudy day.

If you’d like to take a break from winter hiking in Arches National Park, another great way to see the epic Utah winter landscape is by 4×4 tour!

You can take a half-day 4×4 tour leaving from Moab, which will tour Arches off-road.

On this half-day tour, you’ll get to see several spots that regular visitors by car just can’t get to, including Tower Arch, Eye of the Whale Arch, the Marching Men, and more.

Book this half-day 4×4 tour!

Alternately, you can opt for a full-day 4×4 tour that encompasses both Arches and Canyonlands, ticking two Utah National Parks off your bucket list with one off-roading adventure.

In addition to seeing Arches, you’ll also get to explore the massive Canyonlands park.

This full-day Arches and Canyonlands tour covers the Island in the Sky part of the park, one of the more accessible parts of the park.

It also includes driving along Shafer Trail, seeing Tower Arch, and getting to check out ancient fossilized dinosaur tracks!

Book this full-day 4×4 tour of Canyonlands and Arches!

Marvel at Dead Horse Point State Park

A landscape resembling the Grand Canyon with lots of layered rock carved away by the bend of a river, all the layers of rock are covered in a light snow, alternating orange and white colors.

While this guide covers traveling to Arches National Park in winter, one of the best things of basing your winter itinerary in Moab is just how close it is to several incredible national parks and state parks.

Head outside the park for a half-day trip to Dead Horse Point State Park, which is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Utah.

It’s even more spectacular in the winter if you’ve been lucky enough to get a bit of snow!

Where to Stay Near Arches

Glamping tent lit up from within with starry sky behind it

Winter Glamping: Moab Under Canvas

I finally got to stay at Moab Under Canvas on my last trip to Moab and it did not disappoint!

The tents were laid out so thoughtfully and I loved the amenities like the in-tent bathrooms, including hot showers!

There was also a wood stove in the tent which would have made it great for chilly nights, too (I visited in the summer, but it looks well-appointed for winter visitors, too!)

Book your stay at Under Canvas Moab here!

Mid-Range Comfort: Red Cliffs Lodge

Located right on the Colorado River, this gem is a bit outside of Downtown Moab and Main Street but it’s worth the small sacrifice of convenience for a location this spectacular. 

There’s an on-site pool, hot tub, fitness area, and restaurant, and there are also activities available such as wine tasting and horseback riding that the property can organize.

Check prices and availability here!

Budget Stay: Element Moab

Lots of hotels in Moab can be on the pricy side, but this comfortable, large hotel is one of the better-priced options in the region.

The rooms are huge and spacious, especially for the price you pay!

Check rates and availability here!

Winter Weather in Arches National Park

Snowy view of Arches National Park in the winter, looking through one arch and seeing a larger complex of arches through the "window", red rock covered in snow.

Arches National Park in winter is generally pleasant and not too cold, with periodic (though not guaranteed!) snow.

While Arches isn’t extremely cold in the winter, it is at a relatively high elevation.

The lowest elevation part of the park is 4,085 feet at the Visitor Center; the highest elevation is at 5,653 feet.

Due to that, Arches experiences more snowfall than lower-elevation parks at a similar latitude.

The table below shows average temperatures in Arches National Park during the winter:

MonthHigh TemperatureLow Temperature
December41° F20 °F
January40° F18° F
February49° F25 °F

Arches Winter Road Conditions

Arches national park in the winter with landscape and building that is no longer in use

Arches Scenic Road

The Arches Scenic Road is the main paved road through the park.

From this main road, visitors can access the most popular attractions in the park, such as Balanced Rock, Devils Garden, Double Arch, and more! As the main access route in the park, the Arches Scenic Road remains open year-round.

Closures can occur on the Arches Scenic Road for snow removal operations. Call or visit the Arches Visitor Center for a current road conditions report.

Be sure your vehicle is suited to travel the potentially icy roads following winter weather.

Salt Valley Road

In warm season’s dry conditions, the Salt Valley Road, which connects Arches National Park’s main paved road to the Klondike Bluffs and Tower Arch Trailhead, is a two-wheel-drive road fit for most vehicles.

Although come wet or snowy conditions often seen in the off-season, the road can become impassable even with four-wheel-drive capabilities.

This road is not well-marked and is entirely unpaved.

The 10-mile stretch connecting the Devils Garden area of Arches National Park to Highway 191 outside of the park makes a great alternative entrance or scenic detour during promising weather.

The road also offers a faster and more direct exit from the park toward the amenities of town.

7 Great Things to Do in Big Sky, MT in Winter: A Local’s Guide

Nestled amidst the snow-kissed peaks, churning rivers, and awe-inspiring vistas lies the enchanting town of Big Sky, Montana — a lovely escape from the crowds that promises unforgettable winter escapades.

The town of Big Sky in winter is recognized for its prime skiing, and in summer, it’s known for being a haven for fly fishing enthusiasts. Plus, it’s well-loved for being a portal to the wonders of Yellowstone.

But that’s not all it offers — Big Sky, Montana also harbors other delightful experiences that are sure to captivate you!

⌛ Planning your Big Sky trip in a hurry? Here are my quick picks.

❄️ Best Big Sky Tours & Experiences
1. Big Sky Snowshoe Tour of Yellowstone
2. Ski Rental & Delivery
3. Private Yellowstone Day Tours

🛏️ Best Big Sky Hotels
1. Montage Big Sky (5-star mountain resort with spa)
2. Big Sky Resort Village Center (cozy & budget-friendly)
3. Residence Inn by Marriott Big Sky (mid-range, in town)

Arriving in Big Sky by plane? Book your rental car here.
Lovely brilliant sky view of snow covered slopes at Big Sky Ski Resort as seen from the chairlift point of view while skiing on a sunny winter day

Plus, it’s still a bit of a hidden gem in the US, as most travelers end up flocking to Yellowstone, Glacier, or Jackson instead, leaving Big Sky blissfully free of mass tourism.

From delicious meals served on a snowy mountain-side and shopping in the Town Center to riding the slopes at Big Sky Resort and snowshoeing in the forest, Big Sky in winter has something for everyone to enjoy.

Things to Do in Big Sky in Winter

Hike to a frozen waterfall.

View of an icy snow covered landscape in the winter in Big Sky Montana

One of the most popular waterfall hikes in Big Sky transforms into a dazzling frozen wall of ice once the cold weather moves in.

The Ousel Falls Trailhead is minutes from the Big Sky Town Center and offers ample parking spaces.

From the parking area, follow the trail down toward the river.

In the wintertime, the snow can become packed down and slick, so shoe spikes (crampons) are a great idea to keep you from slipping and sliding down the trail!

The trail is 1.6 miles round trip and offers scenic views of the South and West Forks of the Gallatin River.

With only 400 ft of elevation gain, this trail is perfect for families and folks who are new to hiking!

Before the waterfall, you will pass tall cliffs that often support gorgeous ice caves.

Warning: Crossing the river to the caves is extremely dangerous, and staying on the maintained trail is encouraged!

Once you arrive at Ousel Falls, there is a picnic area and a couple of different viewpoints to observe the frozen falls from.

It’s not uncommon to spot ice climbers making their way up the ice and guides leading new climbers on their first outing.

If you’re interested in getting on the ice with a professional guide, Montana Alpine Guides can take you out for a safe and exhilarating day of climbing!

Go shopping in the town center.

Cabin views of Big Sky Montana covered in snow on a wintery day with the sun out

The shopping scene in Big Sky’s Town Center grows larger every year! B

egin your tour of the downtown stores in the Town Center Plaza and make your way down Town Center Ave. toward Fire Pit Park.

Along the way you’ll find a few shops great for shopping and escaping the cold! Here are a few of my favorites.

Sky Boutique

Shop Sky Boutique’s exquisite hand-selected apparel, fine jewelry, and accessories!

Need help putting a stylish outfit together for a night out in Big Sky? Look no further than Sky Boutique!

The Black Diamond Store

Head to Big Sky Resort (or the ski resorts in nearby Jackson Hole) in style!

The Black Diamond Store has everything from professional ski gear to comfortable everyday apparel.

East Slope Outdoors

Remember your trip to Big Sky with a commemorative T!

East Slope Outdoors has a wide selection of graphic shirts everyone will love as well as ski apparel to keep you warm on the slopes.

Montana Supply

You can always find the latest mountain town apparel and accessories at Montana Supply!

It’s also the perfect place to find a thoughtful gift for a loved one or a special something for yourself.

Rhinestone Cowgirl

From western style hats to funky cowgirl boots, Rhinestone Cowgirl is the perfect place to explore true Montana fashion.

If you’re looking for western apparel for men, Antlers Clothing Co, in Fire Pit Park, is your next stop!

Snowshoe or cross-country ski on Big Sky’s trails.

A river amidst a snowy landscape with snow-covered trees in Montana's Big Sky backcountry

The Big Sky Community Organization looks after Big Sky’s love of outdoor recreation and open space with trails and parks that all are welcome to enjoy!

Wintertime visitors can purchase a map of all of the town trails at the Big Sky and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Information Center or one of the many local retail stores.

A few trails you might enjoy on cross country skis or snowshoes are:

South Fork Loop

The easy 1-mile South Fork Loop is groomed in the wintertime and is a perfect place for beginners to learn on snowshoes and cross country skis.

The trail weaves through the forest and hugs the South Fork of the Gallatin River for soothing sounds of rushing water.

Uplands and Hummocks Trails

Just past the South Fork Loop Trailhead, there is a small parking area for the Uplands and Hummocks Trails.

Due to some steep hills, both of these trails care challenging on cross country skis, but they are great for a moderately challenging snowshoe outing.

The Uplands Loop travels up above the Big Sky Town Center for picturesque views of Lone Peak and the Madison Range.

The trail travels through the forest for about 2 miles before looping back to the parking area.

If you’re looking to add a little more mileage, continue onto the Hummocks Trail, which is 3 miles round trip with a couple of scenic viewpoints to stop at along the way.

Have a marvelous dinner experience.

Two festive lit up trees at Christmas time in the ski resort town of Big Sky Montana

A dinner experience in Big Sky reaches way beyond live music and dancing!

During the winter, a few venues host intimate and fun events that are perfect for romantic evenings or special occasions.

Reservations are required for both of these listed things, so plan ahead if visiting Big Sky in winter and you want to do one (or both!).

Montana Dinner Yurt

Meet your chariots, two big red snowcats named Rosie and Ginger.

Climb aboard while choosing to ride on the open deck up top or inside the cab.

Blankets are provided, but guests are encouraged to wear warm winter clothing!

Your snowcat will then bring you up the mountain at Big Sky Resort to a secluded yurt for the Montana Dinner Yurt experience, where you will spend the evening.

Greeted by live music and friendly staff, you will be seated family-style around the cozy dining room!

In addition to outstanding food and a soothing atmosphere, the Montana Dinner Yurt offers sledding and a bonfire.

When your bellies are full, you’ll head back down the mountain on the snowcats with your new friends and memories to last a lifetime.

Sleigh Ride Dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch

By horse-drawn sleigh, dinner guests are transported to a rustic cabin, which is illuminated by an oil lantern.

The magical ride takes you through the snowy forest under the big Montana night sky!

At the dinner cabin, live music and a western atmosphere set the tone for your family-style prime rib feast.

With a rich history and as an icon of Big Sky for over 100 years, Lone Mountain Ranch is a destination within a destination.

Locals and visitors alike enjoy coming to Lone Mountain Ranch to dine at Horn and Cantle, sip signature cocktails at The Saloon, and explore the beautifully groomed trails on cross country skis or snowshoes.

Learn more about the sleigh ride dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch here.

Spend a day at Big Sky Resort – even if you’re not a skier!

A person in a red coat and white snow pants on skis at Big Sky resort in Montana.

A winter trip to Big Sky isn’t complete without spending a day at Big Sky Resort for snow sports!

Boasting endless terrain for skiing and riding, Big Sky Resort is on every powder hound’s bucket list.

There are trails from beginner level to expert, with plenty of open space to learn and explore.

Ski the trails from The Tram or the famous high-speed Ramcharger 8, which seats eight passengers comfortably with a protective face shield and luxurious heated seats!

For the non-skiers visiting Big Sky Resort, there are lots of activities to choose from even if snow sports aren’t your thing.

The adventurous type might enjoy a snowy zip line excursion, while the puzzle whizzes will love the resort’s challenging escape rooms.

If you need a day to relax and unwind, book a soothing massage at Solace Spa.

After the last lift, skiers and non-skiers reunite for après-ski vibes in the Mountain Village.

Fuel up after a fun-filled day at one of the many dining options at Vista Hall, and then pop into Westward Social for a craft cocktail and live music!

If you’d prefer to head off-mountain for refreshments, Copper, inside the Wilson Hotel, has a phenomenal happy hour which runs from 4 PM to 6 PM daily!

Go ice skating in town

Woman with red gloves, gray pants, white jacket and white skates tying up her laces on the ice.

When the sun goes down, the lights come on over the Big Sky Town Center’s Skating Rink.

Locals and visitors lace up their skates and glide around the glistening ice.

A romantic activity paired well with a hot to-go drink or a fun night out with the family, the skating rink welcomes all to join during open skate hours!

Traveling without ice skates? That’s not a problem!

Ice skates are available for rent at East Slope Outdoors for a small fee.

Go for a snowmobile in Gallatin National Forest.

Landscape of the gallatin national forest with snow-covered trees in the backcountry of Montana

While you’re visiting Big Sky country in the wintertime, you have to get out and ride the powder on a snowmobile!

Big Sky is nestled right inside Gallatin National Forest, which offers an exciting variety of terrain to explore on sleds!

Guided tours aren’t just for first-timers!

Booking a snowmobile trip with a professional guide not only keeps you safe on the rugged mountain terrain.

It also allows you to experience the absolute best trails – that are often lesser-known.

Canyon Adventures, an outfitter in Big Sky, is famous for its witty and knowledgeable guides.

If you’d like to schedule a trip or rent snowmobiles, do so well in advance of your visit to assure availability. 

Where to Stay in Big Sky, MT

Ski lifts in the Big Sky Montana area with people waiting to go up the blue chairlift

Budget: Big Sky Resort Village Center

Part of the Big Sky Mountain Village ski resort, these studios offer excellent value for their size and proximity to the ski lifts.

Studios have their own kitchenettes, which can help you save on costs associated with dining out, and they’re very cozy, with touches like indoor fireplaces and cozy couches.

Check availability and prices here!

Mid-Range: Residence Inn by Marriott Big Sky

An elegantly updated Marriott classic, the Residence Inn in Big Sky is a great choice for those traveling on a mid-range budget.

From its modern public areas with comfy furniture and wood-accents to its minimalist updated rooms, it’s a perfect place to stay in the heart of Big Town’s village center.

Check availability and prices here!

Luxury: Montage Big Sky

The lovely 5-star Montage Big Sky is an excellent choice for those seeking a luxury winter escape.

From their lobby with soaring ceilings and an enormous floor-to-ceiling panoramic view of the mountains, to its spa-quality bathrooms in each room, to its literal world-class spa in the hotel itself, there’s no shortage of good things to say about this hotel — and its 9.8 review attests to that.

Check availability and prices here!

9 Things to Do in Grand Teton in Winter (+ Tips for Visiting!)

For those enchanted by the pristine beauty of snow-clad peaks, Grand Teton National Park in winter is nothing short of a daydream come to life.

As frequent snowfall sculpts and changes the mountain’s craggy surfaces and hiking trails get a snowy blanket tucking them in, Grand Teton’s winter panoramas are even more serene.

⌛ Planning your Grand Teton trip in a hurry? Here are my quick picks.

❄️ Best Grand Teton Tours & Experiences
1. Grand Teton Winter Wildlife Safari
2. Dog Sledding Tour with Hot Cocoa 
3. Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride in Elk Refuge

🛏️ Best Grand Teton Area Hotels
1. Wyoming Inn (lovely boutique hotel with rustic feel)
2. Elk Country Inn (best budget option in the area)
3. Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa (best luxury ski resort)

Want to rent a car Grand Teton and Jackson? 
→ Find the best prices for a rental car here
Snake river overlook in Grand Teton National Park with the landscape of the Teton range behind, with a winding river in the front

With winter setting in, Jackson Hole‘s ski scene comes to life for the season, and even in winter, Grand Teton National Park become a hub of activity, bustling with visitors keen to explore one of the United State’s most beautiful national parks on a day off from skiing.

For those who find beauty in the chilly, icy landscapes of mountain ranges in winter, the beauty of Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park beckon.

Drawn by the world-class skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, adventurous backcountry skiing in the Teton Range, snowshoeing expeditions, cross-country trails, and those mesmerizing mountain vistas, it’s hard to resist the beauty of Grand Teton in winter, so long as you dress for it!

9 Best Things to Do in Grand Teton in Winter!

Pay a visit to the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center.

Wood, stone, and glass building with snow piled high and on roof with the words "Visitor Center" and one person entering the building

Before embarking on an adventure into any national park, it’s always wise to kick off your journey at a visitor center — and Grand Teton is no exception, especially in the winter.

These centers provide the latest updates on road conditions, and you’ll have the opportunity to engage with experts who have deep knowledge of the park.

Situated in Jackson, WY, just a stone’s throw away from the national park and adjacent to the National Elk Refuge, you’ll find the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center.

Beyond giving you the most current road status and insights on winter safety, this center boasts spectacular views, educational exhibits, a bookstore, and even ticket counters for sleigh rides!

During the winter season in Grand Teton National Park, the Visitor Center hours for the Jackson Hole Visitor Center are between 9 AM and 5 PM seven days a week, except for holidays.

Go winter wildlife spotting.

Moose with antlers in the fields of Grand Teton munching on grass in the snow

Get out of the chilly winter air and warm up on a scenic drive to seek out some area wildlife.

Grand Teton National Park is home to bison, deer, elk, coyote, bear, and even wolves!

Although bear settle in for hibernation in the wintertime, many of the park’s other wildlife remains active.

Hit the road for a drive along John D. Rockefeller Jr. Parkway (HWY 191) from Jackson, WY.

A good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope will be extra helpful for locating wildlife in the distance.

The Willow Flats Overlook is well-known as one of the best places to scout for wolves in Grand Teton National Park.

Grab a parking spot and set up shop for a little while. Be patient in your search, and remember to have fun!

An elk with giant horns in focus with mouth open and a blurry background with one other elk behind.

Also, elk can often be seen just outside of the park in the winter at the National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole.

The refuge also is a popular place to spot other types of mammals and migratory birds.

Want to see the best winter wildlife in Grand Teton National Park? A guided tour is the answer!

That means an early wake-up call to spot some of the most beautiful animals in the park on a morning wildlife safari.

This small-group tour includes pre-dawn transit, snacks and water, and several hours of wildlife spotting with an expert guide before returning to your hotel for the afternoon.

Check availability here!

Take a sleigh ride through the Elk Refuge.

Two brown horses in profile wearing bridal, reins, and other horse gear in order to bring travelers on a sleigh ride.

Wintertime visitors can get a close-up view of the massive elk herd that inhabits the refuge by booking a horse-drawn sleigh ride!

Prepare for a magical journey through the snow aboard a horse-led sleigh! Ensure you’re warmly dressed for this unforgettable sleigh ride experience.

Embark on a full-day excursion that whisks you away on a sleigh through the National Elk Refuge, located just on the fringes of Grand Teton National Park.

With the insights of a seasoned guide and a knowledgeable naturalist, you’ll traverse the refuge, getting an up-close-and-personal view of the elk here in winter.

The Jackson Hole elk refuge with the elks and the teton range in the background

This remarkable sanctuary houses North America’s most extensive migratory elk herd, and it’s not unusual to spot other wildlife species as well.

As the horses lead you across this snowy expanse, the majestic Tetons offer a stunning backdrop to all the wildlife oyu see.

Sleigh rides are available from mid-December to early April, so long as there’s enough snow for the sleighs to run.

Given the popularity, especially around the festive season, booking in advance is strongly recommended!

Book your National Elk Refuge sleigh tour here!

Go dog sledding the Grand Teton surroundings.

Dog sledding in the snowy countryside with one dog looking back at the camera and smiling

I’ve experienced the thrill of dog-sledding in both Norway and Sweden, but Wyoming is still on my bucket list — I hope to experience it soon!

There’s an undeniable joy in dog sledding that is shared both the human mushers and the spirited huskies that lead the way!

These dogs, raised for this very purpose, exhibit an infectious zeal that you can’t help but absorb.

With this particular dog-sledding tour, you have a choice: either let a seasoned musher navigate while you sit back and soak in the surroundings or opt for the more hands-on experience of self-driving – which I personally prefer!

Self-driving involves working in tandem with your canine team to steer the sled, manage the brakes, and even give them a hand (well, foot!) on uphill stretches, ensuring it’s not just the dogs breaking a sweat.

Trust me, it’s not just an adventure; it’s an exhilarating cardio workout with the best view you can imagine.

Book your dog-sledding tour today!

Go snowmobile in the Grand Teton backcountry.

A person on a snowmobile going through the backcountry of Grand Teton

The beautiful Heart Six Ranch offers full-day snowmobiling tours of their part of Grand Teton.

This tour includes transport from Jackson, a tasty lunch at a beautiful mountain lodge, and gear rental (bring your own warm base layers).

This is a full-day tour from 8 AM to 4 PM or later, so it’s great for whiling away a day in the backcountry of Grand Teton in winter!

Check availability here!

Admire the beauty of Mormon Row in winter.

A view of the famous "Grand Teton Cabin", a wooden structure shaped almost like a sombrero hat, with a sunrise light glow on the tips of the mountain range behind.

One of the most iconic views of Grand Teton National Park isn’t actually in the park at all, but right on its outskirts: those famous barn houses of Mormon Row.

Constructed in the early 20th century by Mormon settlers, these historic homesteads and iconic barns are a relic from when this part of the Jackson Hole Valley was turned into an agricultural center.

Obviously, its agricultural uses have long since turned over to tourism, leaving these historic barns behind, but they have become one of the most photographed sites in Grand Teton National Park.

In winter, the snow-covered landscape provides a serene backdrop to the rustic structures, casting them in a tranquil beauty that stands against the rugged Teton peaks, a striking contrast between the historic with the timeless.

Show up early, around sunrise, so you can admire the beautiful alpenglow that the passing morning light casts on the peaks, setting them alight like a candle.

Go cross-country skiing through the park’s maintained trails.

A father and son enjoying cross-country skiing on a winter day in Grand Teton National Park with blue skies and snow.

Skiing into Grand Teton National Park is an experience unlike any other!

The area’s powdery snow is perfect for cross-country ski touring, and the views are unbeatable.

There are many professional outfitters located in Jackson that can equip you with everything you need to get out and glide through Grand Teton National Park.

If you are visiting during the holidays or for spring break, you may want to reserve your rental gear in advance to secure availability!

For those interested in cross country skiing in Grand Teton, the Teton Park Road is a great place to start.

The Teton Park Road is groomed from the Taggert Lake Trailhead, where you will likely park your vehicle, all the way to Signal Mountain Lodge.

That’s nearly 15 miles of beautifully groomed trail to explore beginning in mid-December, depending on conditions.

two men cross country skiing in grand teton national park in the winter

The trail passes popular attractions like Jenny Lake and the southern end of Jackson Lake.

Whether you decide to ski only a few miles or the whole stretch of the road, on a bluebird day you’re guaranteed epic views of the Cathedral Group.

Another great option for some in-park cross country skiing is the Moose-Wilson Road.

To ski along the groomed trail on this scenic road, park at the Granite Canyon Trailhead. The road is groomed for about 3 miles, where it ends at another trailhead.

Round trip, the trail offers 6 miles of the wonderful forested scenery. During the winter, skiers often use this road to access Phelps Lake.

Go snowshoeing on the trails of Grand Teton.

A family embarking together on a snowshoeing adventure in Grand Teton National Park away from camera towards the mountains.

Snowshoeing in Grand Teton is a great way to stay active in the winter and explore the park’s beauty easily.

There’s an easier learning curve with snowshoeing compared to cross-country skiing, so it’s an easy new skill you can pick up without needing a big learning curve.

Both the Teton Park Road and Moose-Wilson Road mentioned above in are mixed-use trails, meaning they are open for both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

One caveat: do not snowshoe in the cross-country ski tracks!

The cross-country skiers use this to return to the trailhead more easily. It’s poor trail etiquette to snowshoe over their tracks.

A snow-covered landscape at Colter Bay in Grand Teton National Park in Winter.

If you’re interested in a self-guided snowshoe excursion, there are a few other areas to consider.

A popular spot for winter hiking and snowshoeing is Colter Bay.

The Colter Bay trails are adjacent to Jackson Lake and offer picturesque views of the Teton Range on clear days!

To access the Colter Bay parking area, visitors should use John D. Rockefeller Jr. Parkway/ HWY 191; it’s a 1-hour scenic drive from the town of Jackson.

Go backcountry skiing in the Tetons.

A man skiing doing a large jump in the backcountry landscape of the Grand Tetons with a powder trail behind him.

Grand Teton National Park requires all snow-season backcountry users to carry the appropriate safety equipment and have expert knowledge of avalanche safety.

There is still a way to explore the winter backcountry for intermediate skiers, however.

For those eager to get deeper into the Teton’s remote terrain, a guided backcountry ski trip might be in order.

There are many professional outfitters that are licensed to offer guided backcountry ski trips into Grand Teton National Park!

Teton Backcountry Guides is one such company, and the one I’d trust with my safety in the backcountry.

Going with a professional guide is a great way to learn about winter safety and ensure that the mountain routes you run are thoroughly assessed for avalanche danger.

Grand Teton Winter Weather

A classic view of Grand Teton National Park in winter: peaks covered in snow with blue skies

In a word? Cold!

In fact, the coldest temperature Wyoming ever experienced was measured in Moran, just adjacent to Grand Teton National Park.

And that was a bone-chilling 63 degrees below zero (Fahrenheit), recorded back in 1933!

Of course, that’s a big of an anomaly — it’s not exactly the average temperatures in Grand Teton in winter.

Here are the breakdowns for winter temperatures and weather conditions in Grand Teton National Park from November through March.

November: Average high of 35° F and an average low of 14° F, with 11 days of rain/snow

December: Average high of 25° F and an average low of 3° F, with 12 days of rain/snow.

January: Average high of 25° F and an average low of 0° F, with 12 days of snow/rain.

February: Average high of 30° F and an average low of 2° F, with 10 days of snow/rain.

March: Average high of 39° F and an average low of 11° F, with 10 days of snow/rain.

Where to Stay in Grand Teton in Winter

An aerial photo taken with a drone of Jackson Hole town with a river winding through it and mountains on the edge of town

There is nowhere to stay in Grand Teton National Park itself in the winter, as all the in-park lodging ends mid-October.

Therefore, you’ll want to stay in nearby Jackson Hole or Teton Village.

Luckily, there’s no shortage of incredible accommodations there! Here are our top picks for where to stay near Grand Teton.

Top Choice: Wyoming Inn at Jackson Hole

This cozy inn features Western-style decor complete with a roaring fireplace, warm woodsy colors, rustic design touches, and large, modern rooms.

Added luxury amenities include a fitness center with Peloton equipment, a large hot tub, complimentary tea, hot chocolate, and cookies by the fireplace, and a delicious on-site restaurant.

Check photos, reviews, and availability here

Budget Choice: The Elk Country Inn

This highly rated and affordable for cost-conscious travelers is just a few blocks from the central Town Square in Jackson Hole.

The ambiance is a bit generic hotel, as opposed to more hip or luxurious options, but it’s warm and comforting nonetheless.

It still has nice amenities, though, like an indoor swimming pool and fireplace: a score for a budget-conscious place.

Check photos, reviews, and availability here

A view of a plowed road leading through a pine forest with a clear view of the Grand Teton winter range ahead

Luxury Choice: Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa

This mountain resort is as luxurious as it gets in the Grand Teton area.

There are a variety of room types, all with a gorgeous fireplace and cooking area, so you can find everything from queen studios to bi-level two-bedroom suites.

It’s located in Teton Village, just over a mile from Grand Teton National Park and close to several ski runs in case you’re traveling with skiers.

There is a phenomenal on-site restaurant, a lively bar area for apres-ski drinks, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, an indoor heated pool, a massage and spa center, and a gorgeous outdoor heated pool.

Check photos, reviews, and availability here

Grand Teton in Winter FAQs

A moose walking through the snow with snow-covered Grand Teton range behind him in winter
  • Is Grand Teton open in winter?

Indeed, Grand Teton National Park welcomes visitors every day of the year, winter included!

But note, with substantial snowfall, some roads and sections of Grand Teton NP may become inaccessible at certain parts of the year.

  • Can you drive through Grand Teton in winter?

Absolutely. The two primary arteries cutting through Grand Teton, Highway 89/191 and Highway 26/287, remain open during winter.

They may temporarily close during poor weather conditions, but generally, they are kept open.

Beginning on November 1st, the Teton Park Road is closed to private vehicle traffic from the Taggert Lake Trailhead to Signal Mountain Lodge. The road remains closed throughout winter until April 1st.

This is so they can become groomed trails for winter sports like cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing.

  • Is winter a good time to visit Grand Teton?

Well, if hiking amid snow isn’t your thing, then a winter visit to Grand Teton certainly won’t do much for you.

But if you’re intrigued by winter activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wintry wildlife excursions, then the park during winter might just be a dream come true!

17 Cool Things to Do in Jackson Hole in Winter

Jackson hole old sign

As the snow blankets Jackson Hole each winter, people from around the world start to arrive, eager to delve into its renowned skiing and snowboarding.

Long a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, as well as a beloved home base for people visiting Grand Teton or Yellowstone in winter, Jackson Hole in winter has fun in store for everyone – even non-skiers!

⌛ Planning your winter Jackson Hole trip in a hurry? Here are my quick picks.

❄️ Best Jackson Hole Tours & Experiences
1. Snowmobile Tour in Jackson Hole Backcountry
2. Dog Sledding Tour with Hot Cocoa 
3. Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride in Elk Refuge

🛏️ Best Jackson Hole Hotels
1. Wyoming Inn (lovely boutique hotel with rustic feel)
2. Elk Country Inn (best budget option in the area)
3. Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa (best luxury ski resort)

Want your own set of wheels while in Jackson? Book your rental car here

Be it immersing oneself gliding down the well-manicured ski trails of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, snowmobiling through glistening landscapes, or embarking on magical sleigh rides, Jackson Hole has some winter fun for all.

For those considering a winter trip to Jackson Hole, there’s a ton of delightful activities awaiting.

However, before diving in, here are some crucial pointers to keep in mind for your winter visit!

Winter in Jackson Hole FAQs

When is the best month to visit Jackson Hole in winter?

A frozen over lake in Jackson Wyoming in winter

The optimal time to visit Jackson Hole is in January or February, that brief lull between the Christmas buzz and before the influx of snowbirds and families on spring break.

That said, I know, for many Americans juggling limited vacation days, timing is as crucial as budget when planning a winter trip, especially if you’re a parent who is limited by the school calendar.

Those from the East Coast, who typically have both a mid-winter and a spring break (something I learned while teaching in NYC, as growing up in California, I only expected a spring break), might find the mid-winter break in February to have better prices.

During this period, Jackson Hole is less congested and prices are better than at other high-volume times like the Christmas and New Years holidays.

Is it possible to ski in Jackson in December?

A close up view of peaks in the mountains of Jackson Wyoming in winter with snow

Historically, Jackson boasts an 82% open rate by Christmas Day… which means it’s not quite a sure thing.

There’s a 1 in 5 chance if you plan to ski in Jackson Hole in December that it might not go your way.

If you do plan a Jackson trip in December, be sure to line up alternate activities that will keep you fulfilled and happy in case there isn’t enough snowfall for the season to open.

Given the steeper terrain of Jackson’s ski terrain, the mountain resort needs more snow than other ski resorts with gentler slopes.

If skiing is the main reason for your Jackson winter trip, schedule your ski trip for a later date, like February or March, when enough snow is virtually a certainty.

Is skiing in Jackson Hole expensive?

Person skiing through fresh powdery snow in Jackson Hole in winter with cloudy sky and mountain landscape covered in snow

Yup, unfortunately, Jackson Hole does come with a hefty price tag.

As of 2023, according to the On The Snow, the ski lift costs $191 USD for an adult full-day ticket and $153 USD for a half-day ticket (4 hours).

Kid’s lift tickets — for those aged 5 to 12 — are $115 USD for a whole day or $92 USD for a half-day. Junior lift tickets — for those aged 13 to 18 — are $173 USD or $138 USD respectively.

A week pass offers a slight discount, priced at $1,136 USD for an adult ticket, $684 USD for kids, and $1,023 USD for juniors.

Winter accommodations in Jackson are also on the higher side due to the demand.

Do Jackson and Jackson Hole refer to the same place?

Lit up antlers with Christmas lights in Jackson Wyoming with white lights and festive color and snowfall on the ground

Not exactly, but there is overlap.

Jackson is the largest town within the Jackson Hole area.

Jackson Hole is the region that encompasses the valley that houses several towns, including Jackson.

This valley also includes Teton Village, which is the central skiing hub, and other quaint towns like Moose, Wilson, and Moran Junction.

Best Things to Do in Jackson Hole in Winter

Snowmobile in paradise!

The view from behind a man riding a snowmobile wearing a black helmet and gloves with one snowmobiler ahead of him.

Each winter, Jackson Hole is blessed with several feet of snow, making it a popular destination for snowmobiling!

The area boasts a wide variation in terrain along with hundreds of trail miles to explore.

If you’ve never been snowmobiling in Jackson Hole before or are completely new to the sport, scheduling a trip with a local guide is highly encouraged and easy to do!

There are many outfitters to choose from, and with an area expert in the lead, you can be sure you’re traveling through the scenic landscape safely.

Not sure which snowmobiling tour to go with?

I suggest going with this 5-star-rated tour, which runs full-day tours of their ranch and other beautiful backcountry areas you’d never get a chance to see in winter on foot!

Book your snowmobiling tour here!

Go dog sledding with a team of enthuastic pups!

Dog sledding in Jackson Wyoming with a team of dogs and one person manning the sled and one person sitting down

I’ve gone dog-sledding several times, in Norway and Sweden, but I’ve still yet to go in Jackson — however, it is on my list!

Dog sledding is an extremely fun activity for both the humans and the dogs involved.

The huskies are quite literally born to run, and every single time I’ve gone dog-sledding (three times now!) I’ve been impressed by the dog’s enthusiasm, energy, and absolute adoration for what they do.

This dog-sledding tour has the option of being driven by musher, where you get to sit down and relax in it, or you can learn to self-drive, which is what I recommend!

This is when you help out your team of pups by helping them steer the sled, control the brakes, and assist on running up any uphill portions so that the dogs aren’t the only ones doing the work.

It’s actually quite a workout and it’s a ton of fun!

The dogs are well-loved and taken care of by the ranch, so it’s a great way to experience the landscapes around Jackson in a unique way.

Book your dog-sledding tour today!

Take a magical sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge

A view on a horse sleigh ride through the elk refuge near Grand Teton National Park with two beautiful reddish-brown horses

Get ready to dash through the snow on a horse-drawn sleigh! You’ll want to bundle up for this sleigh ride adventure.

The full-day tour takes visitors on a sleigh ride in the National Elk Refuge, just outside of Grand Teton National Park, for a wildlife tour you’ll never forget.

In the company of a professional guide and experienced naturalist, you will be taken across the refuge to get a closer look at the elk that winter there.

This astonishing refuge is home to the largest migratory elk herd in North America — but it’s also visited by several other species.

Going through this snowy landscape with a team of horses, you’ll also have picturesque views of the Tetons in the background besides all the elk!

The sleigh rides operate between mid-December and early-April.

Advanced reservations are highly encouraged – especially during the holiday season!

Book your National Elk Refuge sleigh tour here!

Backcountry snowmobile to Granite Hot Springs.

A view of the famous Granite Hot Springs near Jackson in Wyoming covered in snow with pine trees everywhere.

For a snowmobile adventure unlike any other, book a guided trip to Granite Hot Springs in the Gros Ventre Mountain Range.

Your tour will also provide transportation to the trailhead, which is 24 miles south of Jackson, WY.

From the trailhead, you’ll follow your guide deep into the Bridger-Teton National Forest, sprinting though through a wintery wonderland at top speeds before reaching the steamy hot springs.

This wilderness hot tub usually measures 105 °F — perfect for warming up after a day of cold wind whipping your face.

The snowmobile excursion to Granite Hot Springs is about 20-miles of riding round trip and takes a half-day.

Bring your own towels and bathing suits and let your guides do the rest!

Book your Granite Hot Springs snowmobile tour here!

Do a full-day snowmobile adventure in Grand Teton National Park.

Snowmobile tour through the landscapes of Grand Teton national park with pristine field of white snow

Embark on a thrilling and breathtaking snowmobile tour of the pristine Grand Teton National Park for a fun Jackson winter escape.

The 5-hour expedition promises ample opportunity for adventure, with approximately 3 hours dedicated to snowmobiling.

This ensures that guests not only experience the thrill of gliding through snow-covered landscapes but also have time for breaks, photos, and a delightful packed lunch amidst nature.

For those wondering about the logistics, the tour has it all sorted. A convenient hotel pickup and drop-off service ensures a hassle-free start and finish to your adventure.

You’ll be warm, too: you’ll be provided with high-quality snow gear, including insulated pants, a cozy jacket, snug gloves, and a safety helmet.

As you journey deeper into the heart of Grand Teton National Park, take a pause to savor a packed lunch and hot chocolate in the company of unparalleled panoramic views.

One of the tour’s highlights is the potential wildlife encounters.

The snow-covered Tetons are a sanctuary for a variety of wild animals during the colder months, including elk, buffalo, and moose!

Book your Grand Teton snowmobile tour here!

Do a full-day adventure into Yellowstone National Park.

The Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone National Park spewing steam high into the air on a winter day

One thing not many people know is that Yellowstone is completely closed to car traffic in winter, so snowmobile is one of the only ways to visit the national park in winter.

Luckily, there are a handful of guided tours leaving from Jackson that make this a doable day trip, despite the distance.

Beginning early in the morning, your tour guide (I suggest Brushbuck Tours) will shuttle you to the trailhead.

There, you’ll begin your snowmobile journey through Yellowstone’s pristine landscape.

While riding past the mountain vistas, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.

This national park adventure offers the opportunity to see bison, elk, deer, moose, and even wolves!

Book snowmobile tours of Yellowstone from Jackson here!

Go shopping in Downtown Jackson

A view of downtown Jackson with shop lights after sunset

Shop ’til you drop in Jackson’s Town Square!

Begin your tour of the downtown stores at the Antler Arch, which also makes an excellent photo backdrop!

From here, you can easily walk to any of these fun downtown stores:

Jackson Hole Resort Store: This is the perfect store for branded souvenirs and endless browsing!

Teton Toys: Find fun holiday gifts for the little ones in your life or a classic board game to bring back to your Airbnb.

Lee’s Tees: Rep your winter trip to Jackson, WY with a shirt designed by a local artist. Lee’s Tees has a wide selection of graphic shirts everyone will love.

Jackson Hole Jewelry Co.: Fall in love with handcrafted jewelry for yourself or as a gift for a special someone.

Stio: Here, you can find stylish clothing for recreation or everyday wear. Stio has timeless items that are rugged enough to stand up to the challenges of outdoor adventure!

Snap a photo at the lit-up Antler Arch

The famous "antler arch" in Jackson in winter styling with lots of blueish Christmas lights on it, making it shine a pale blue color

The Antler Arch is a popular photo spot in Jackson Hole no matter what the time of year.

There’s no denying it gets even more festive in winter, when blue-tinted fairy lights adorn the snow-dusted antlers and make for the ultimate Jackson Hole Instagram stop.

Taking a photo here is pratically a rite of passage on every Jackson winter trip!

Explore Jackson’s art displays, museums, and galleries

Jackson hole old sign

Interested in exploring Jackson’s diverse art scene?

There are over 10 galleries within walking distance of Jackson Town Square, and even more spread throughout the town.

Among all of these galleries, Jackson is also home to the well-known National Museum of Wildlife Art.

With over 5,000 pieces of art representing wildlife from around the world, there’s so much to discover at the National Museum of Wildlife Art!

In addition to a world-renowned art collection, including work from artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, John James Audubon, and Henri Rousseau, the National Museum of Wildlife Art offers guided tours with professional docents.

It also has a breathtaking location overlooking the National Elk Refuge, a museum store, dining on location at the Palate Restaurant, and a 3/4-mile trail to view beautiful bronze sculptures.

Also, be on the lookout for Jackson’s many public art displays, including the 4,000-pound sculpture of a bronco rider that welcomes all arriving in the Cowboy State from the Jackson Hole Airport!

Go sledding or tubing at Snow King

A view of someone's feet as a woman pulls their tube forward in Jackson Hole in winter

Who said sledding was just for kids?

In Jackson Hole, anyone with a need for speed is encouraged to try out the tubing at Snow King Resort!

Located right in the town of Jackson, Snow King has a specially designed lift with groomed lanes just for tubing!

You can buy a Big King pass which allows you to do all the activities for a full day.

Visit the Ice Castle in Teton Village

An ice castle building with snow in the background.

If you are traveling with young kids, they’ll love the Ice Castle in Teton Village, in the Village Commons area.

It’s located right next to a small hill, which is perfect for sledding and snowplay.

The castle is made from snow and ice and has kiddos playing around it all hours of the day.

There’s also a skating rink here and the ice castles get lit up at night to make it a great place to spend an evening with the family.

Visit Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for skiing or snowboarding

A man doing a jump while backcountry skiing in Jackson

If you love to ski or snowboard, a visit to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is probably already high on your list of must-do activities.

After all, this powder paradise has exciting terrain for all experience levels and ages to shred!

I’m not a skier or a snowboarder, but the official Jackson Hole tourism website is a treasure trove of research!

Ride “Big Red” to 10,450 feet.

The famous "big red" gondola in Jackson bringing travelers up to the top of the mountain resort

There are even fun winter activities for non-skiers to experience resort-life!

Anyone wishing to take in the alpine views at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort on foot should make time to ride the Aerial Tram (aka Big Red) to 10,450 ft.

There are even waffles waiting for you at the top!

After your 9 minute ride up the mountain, pop into Corbet’s Cabin for one of their world-famous waffles! They pair perfectly with the mountain scenery.

Enjoy an après-ski scene for all

Feet up with ski shoes still on with apres ski drinks in the background and a view of distant ski chalets and mountains

Whether you’re coming from a powder day at the resort or an afternoon roaming downtown shops, après ski begins at 3PM!

For folks coming off the slopes, the Mangy Moose is widely-known for their après fun among visitors and locals alike. Cold beer, signature drinks, and filling nachos are only a few of the restaurant’s top attractions.

Grab a table after a long day of skiing or riding and listen to some live music as you recount the day’s excitement.

Downtown Jackson has an après scene of its own, and a local favorite is the Million Dollar Cowboy. You may recognize this bar’s famous saddle stools!

If you’re looking for some après-ski fun in town, pop into this lively watering hole for western ambiance, music, mouthwatering steak, and a refreshing beverage!

Enjoy the delicious Jackson Hole dining scene

A perfect cappuccino with foam with chocolate on top, served on a wood table.

Foodies, this one is for you! Jackson Hole is the heart of the west but home to cuisines from all over the world.

If your breakfast, lunch, and dinner were from all the best restaurants in Jackson, the lineup would look like this:

Breakfast: Delicious espresso drinks and gourmet French bakery items come together at Persephone Bakery.

Take something to go or dine in. There’s something everyone will love here from light and sweet to filling and savory!

Lunch: Every town has its signature burger place, and in Jackson, it’s Liberty Burger.

Reasonably priced with a wide selection of local brews on tap, there’s no wonder why Liberty Burger is a local favorite! Try your first bison burger with onion rings on the side. They even have great veggie burgers!

Dinner: For dinner, pass around a variety of European-style small plates at Bin22.

Make reservations in advance or arrive early because this is one of the most popular dinner restaurants in Jackson Hole! Sip on hand-selected wines and indulge in the best flavors your palate has ever tasted.

Dessert: If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll want to stop by Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream. Their all-natural ice cream made with 100% organic cream is to die for.

For those out there that don’t like ice cream, Moo’s also has a wide selection of baked goods, truffles, and even offers house-blend coffee!

Hit up the local breweries.

A flight of 4 beers including a dark stout, a light lager, a medium-colored pale ale, and a red ale.

Jackson has a great brewery scene that you absolutely should check out while you’re there!

Roadhouse & Brewing Company is a favorite stop on the Wyoming Beer Trail. The brewery started as homebrewers and they’ve kept true to their roots, focusing on small-batch beers inspired by the landscapes around them.

Snake River Brewing is another local favorite, which also offers tours of their brewery — just e-mail them to set up a tour.

StillWest Brewery & Grill also operates in town and always has several beers which are standard (a kolsch, an APA, a red ale, a pilsner, and a porter) and 3+ seasonal offerings.

Jackson Winter Weather

A close up of the faces of two horses ready to give a sleigh ride in the Elk Refuge for Jackson winter travelers

Here are the breakdowns for winter temperatures and weather conditions in Jackson in winter, and what to expect on a month-by-month basis from November through March.

November: Average high of 40° F and an average low of 17° F, with 6 days of rain/snow

December: Average high of 28° F and an average low of 7° F, with 8 days of snow.

January: Average high of 28° F and an average low of 5° F, with 8 days of snow.

February: Average high of 33° F and an average low of 9° F, with 6 days of snow.

March: Average high of 42° F and an average low of 18° F, with 10 days of snow/rain.

Where to Stay in Jackson in Winter

An Aerial view over Jackson Hole in winter with lots of snow

Best Overall: Wyoming Inn

 The chic yet laid-back Wyoming Inn at Jackson Hole is my personal pick for where to stay in Jackson, WY! This charming hotel is super cozy and is designed with Western-style decor.

The inn’s lobby comes with a roaring fireplace, is toned with warm colors with lots of wood elements, and has an overall rustic design that gives you serious cabin vibes with modern hotel amenities.

The Inn also has its own designated fitness center complete with fancy Peloton equipment, a big hot tub to soak sore muscles in, and complimentary tea, hot chocolate, and cookies by the fireplace! There’s also a great on-site restaurant for nights when you’re too tired to properly hit the town.

>> Check photos, reviews, and availability here <<

Best on a Budget: Elk Country Inn

If you’re traveling Jackson on a budget, look to the beautiful The Elk Country Inn. It’s highly rated by fellow travelers and affordable (well, by Jackson standards) for cost-conscious travelers.

It’s located just 4 blocks from Town Square in central Jackson, and the rooms are modern, spacious, and clean.

I’ll admit, the ambiance is a bit generic/standard hotel, and it doesn’t quite have the cool hipster points that a place like Wyoming Inn has, but it’s warm, comfortable, and well-appointed with all you need.

There’s also an indoor swimming pool and a lobby fireplace: two big wins considering its budget-friendly price tag.

>> Check photos, reviews, and availability here <<

Best in Luxury: Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa

 If cost is not a factor, the stunning Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa (a Noble House Resort) is a no-brainer.

This hotel is as luxurious as it gets in Jackson Hole, located in Teton Village just about a mile from Grand Teton National Park. It’s perfect for people who plan on skiing while in Jackson because it’s basically a ski-in, ski-out hotel.

There are a variety of room types, all with a gorgeous fireplace and cooking area, so you can find everything from queen studios to bi-level two-bedroom suites. While none are particularly budget-friendly, you can find the best size and style to suit your needs.

In terms of luxury amenities, there is a phenomenal on-site restaurant, a chic bar area with a great apres-ski scene, with indoor and outdoor hot tubs.

There’s also an indoor heated pool, a massage and spa center, and a gorgeous outdoor heated pool that’s lit up beautifully at night for after-dark dips under the Wyoming stars!

>> Check photos, reviews, and availability here <<

17 Magical Things to Do in Budapest in Winter

budapest view over the tower

From the adorable Christmas market stalls selling steamy lángos and flaky, cinnamon-flecked chimney cakes to warming up in thermal waters amidst a lightly falling snow, experiencing Budapest in winter is a dream come true.

I first fell in love with Budapest when I stayed there for two weeks last July, making the most of the long summer days despite the intense heat.

After that visit, Budapest clawed its way firmly to its spot as one of my favorite cities in Europe.

 Planning your winter trip to Budapest at the last minute?

Here are my quick picks on what to do & where to stay!

🍷 Top Budapest Winter Experiences:
1. Budapest Food Tour (try over twenty samples!)
2. Budapest Wine Tasting Class (eight wines with pairings)
3. Gellert Baths and/or Szechenyi Baths Entry (gorgeous thermal bathhouses)

🏨 Best Budapest Hotels:
1. Aria Hotel (most classic luxury option in Budapest)
2. D8 Hotel (eclectic, modern hotel with a fun personality)
3. Maverick City Lodge (boutique hostel with a peaceful vibe)

✈️ Flying in? Book an airport transfer with Welcome Pickups — they’ll greet you at the airport, help with bags, & bring you into the city, all pre-booked!

On my second visit to Budapest in December, I confirmed it deserved its spot in my mind as one of the best cities in Europe.

In fact, I’d even venture to say that I think I liked winter in Budapest just a touch more.

What can I say, this already-gorgeous city is absolutely perfect when dusted with snow!

Sunset colors in Budapest in winter overlooking an ice rink near one of the major city parks. Sky is pink and blue pastel colors.

And when the cold gets to be too much, hearty Hungarian food, tasty wine, and delicious coffee are never far from reach to warm you up.

If you’re planning a winter trip to Central Europe, here are my favorite things to do in Budapest in winter.

(Psst: I also have guides to Prague in winter, Bratislava in winter, and Vienna in winter!)

17 Best Things to Do in Budapest in Winter

Stroll the many adorable Budapest Christmas Markets.

The back of someone’s head with a puffball hat, walking through the Christmas markets of Budapest in December, looking at wooden souvenirs and street stalls in the market.

Every year, the Budapest Christmas markets open around the middle of November and go strong until around December 31st (or in the case of the Basilica market, until the 2nd of January).

Most other Christmas Markets in Europe close on December 24th, sometimes earlier.

In the event you’re planning a winter Europe trip for late December, after Christmas has passed, Budapest is a great choice!

The holiday markets will still be going strong for about a week after Christmas, whereas in many other places in Europe, the markets wrap up right on Christmas Eve.

Better yet, the Budapest Christmas markets have been named one of the largest and most affordable Christmas markets in Europe!

A lit-up entrance sign in Hungarian to one of the several CHristmas markets in Budapest city center

If you’re looking for a dreamy Christmas in Europe getaway that won’t break the bank, Budapest is perfect.

I definitely found this to be true, as accommodations in Budapest in December were surprisingly affordable even during the peak travel time in the week before Christmas.

The largest market can be found at Vörösmarty Square, which started running relatively late compared to many Christmas markets around Europe, in 1998.

There are concerts and performances here throughout the Christmas season, from jazz to soul to folk music, running from 5 PM to 8 PM on weekdays and 4 PM to 8 PM on weekends.

There is another large market around St. Stephen’s Basilica, radiating outward for a few blocks and seeming to merge with the Vörösmarty market.


View from above, from a church viewpoint, over the ice rink in the center of one of Budapest’s largest squares, with a Christmas tree in the middle of the ice rink

The markets are basically of a labyrinth of stalls which sell delicious traditional foods.

Traditional Budapest Christmas market food includes open-fire-smoked salmon (drool) and lángos, deep-fried dough rubbed with garlic and covered with sour cream and shredded cheese (double drool).

You’ll also find plenty of souvenirs and handicrafts, and unlike other Christmas markets I’ve seen in Europe, there’s a real focus on traditional crafts and folk art made by local artisans.

This is in contrast to the mass-produced kitschy junk you’ll find in many other markets (sorry Prague Christmas markets – you’re beautiful, but you sell cheap kitsch!).

Don’t miss trying Hungarian chimney cake, called kürtőskalács. You actually may recognize this from Prague markets, where it’s called trdelník and is decidedly not traditional!

This Budapest Christmas classic is a specialty of Hungary, where it came to the country from Transylvania (which, now part of Romania, once was part of Hungary).

You can’t miss tasting it when in Budapest in winter – it’s extra delicious to tear into while it’s still steaming hot!

A stall in Budapest Christmas market selling Chimney Cakes with cinnamon vanilla and cocoa flavors, as well as other baked goods, in the evening light.

However, the markets in Vörösmarty Ter and in front of St. Stephen’s are far from the only Christmas markets in Budapest.

There are several smaller ones throughout the city – the cutest of which is located at the foot of Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest’s City Park.

Note: Pickpocketing is rife in Christmas Markets — lots of crowds and guaranteed tourists make an easy target. Be prepared and protect yourself!

While travel in Europe is safe, pickpocketing is a major issue. Thwart would-be pickpocketers with a chic, sleek backpack with double-interlocking zippers, slash-proof construction, & RFID blockers! I’ve carried this PacSafe backpack to 30+ countries with me, and it’s my #1 travel companion. Pick from one of seven colors — I have and love the classic black one!

Warm up with some hearty Hungarian food.


White wine in a Budapest bar with a selection of cured meat cut into slices, served with pumpkin seed oil and olive oil and bread, as well as slices of cheese.

Full of soups and stews and rich, warming ingredients like paprika and lard, Hungarian food is simply made for winter.

When I visited Budapest in December, I went on a dinner food tour, and it was easily my favorite thing I did on my entire Budapest winter trip.

We started off at their wine room, the Tasting Table, where we tried a sparkling Hungarian wine and a still red wine called Kékfrankos.

We also snacked on a few types of sausage: beef, water buffalo, and a pork sausage with plum jam (soooooo good). There was also a fantastic Slovakian-Hungarian smoked cheese called parenyica.

All the food we sampled went perfectly wtih the Hungarian wines, which are seriously some of the best wines you’ve probably never heard of.

I’m serious. I’m a massive wine geek, and Hungary’s wine scene is lit.

But don’t fill up here – there are several stops after this! Afterwards, we went to a Jewish-Hungarian restaurant.

A delicious plate of food in a Budapest restaurant with red onion, a ball of pate and other things like chopped hard boiled egg, hummus, cracklings, and a glass of wine.

There, we tried a variety of different Hungarian-Jewish treats on a sample plate.

The plate consisted of hummus, a “Granny’s Jewish egg” made of chopped goose liver, egg, red onion, and lard (that sound you hear is my heart trying to beat over all that artery-clogging), kőrözött (cottage cheese with paprika and onion), and goose cracklings.

We also got our choice of soup.

I opted for a matzo ball soup because you can take a girl out of New York but you can’t take New York out of the girl, and others went for the bean gulyás (goulash).

Oh, and that was just the starter!

A bowl of matzo ball soup in Budapest with carrots and potato and meat, served with parsley, in a bowl in a Budapest restaurant in winter.

Next, we walked to Szimpla Kert, the largest and most famous ruin pub.

There, we tried raspberry pálinka (the famous liquor of Hungary) and learned a bit about the history of the ruin bars for which Budapest is so famous.

Afterwards, we had a fantastic group dinner, which included chicken paprikás, veal paprikás, pörkölt (a venison stew), a pork knuckle stew, and lecsó, a thick vegetable stew.

But my favorite part of it all was a side dish: a baked curd cheese noodle dish wrapped in bacon that will forever haunt my dreams… until I return to Budapest.

View of different kinds of Hungarian stews and foods that you might eat in Budapest in winter, like a paprika-based chicken stew, served with potatoes and dumplings.

Finally, we stopped to taste two of Budapest’s most famous cakes, the Eszterházy (walnut) and Dobos (chocolate), right next to the beautiful Hungarian State Opera.

I nearly needed to be wheeled out of the restaurant afterwards!

The best part of doing a food tour like this is that you get to try more food than any reasonable human would ever get to taste.

This is perfect for FOMO-havers like myself (and even better when you’re traveling solo and have no travel companion’s plates to mooch off of).

Food tours are one of my first ports of call when visiting a city, and I’m so glad I explored Budapest’s food scene more deeply.

If you want to do the same food walk that I did, this is the exact tour which you can easily book online here!

Sweat it out in the thermal baths.

A bright yellow building in Budapest, which stands out brightly against the gray sky and the white snowy landscape. This is a thermal bath house located in a park.

While Budapest’s thermal baths are lovely any time of year, they’re especially enjoyable as a respite from the biting winter weather.

In the winter, I think the outdoor area of Széchenyi is the best of the thermal baths, as it has the largest and warmest outdoor pool area.

I love the outdoor pools as you can really feel the contrast of cold air on your face and the warm water all around you – it’s so relaxing!

A quick history lesson: Széchenyi was built in 1913 and was the first thermal bath in Pest, in a gorgeous yellow Neo-Baroque building that screams to be Instagrammed (seriously, the pool is like one giant photo shoot).

The baths are composed of 18 indoor and outdoor natural geothermically heated pools ranging from around 30º C to 40º C (86º F to 104º F).

The saunas are especially enjoyable in the winter, but be sure to drink plenty of water and skip the beer or wine being sold on premises if you are making use of the sauna, as you can easily get quite dehydrated!

A view of the Szechenyi baths outdoor area in the pitch black night in the middle of winter in Budapest, when the thermal baths are a great place tow arm up. Neoclassical architecture and large outdoor bath with steam rising.

I didn’t drink enough water while there and ended up with a nasty headache… so learn from my foolishness and do as I say, not as I do. If you’re feeling like a baller, you can even add a massage.

If you have limited time, I recommend spending an evening unwinding at the baths, and saving your daylight hours for exploring the others sights of Budapest.

The sight of steamy water lifting into the dark night sky off the mineral baths is so relaxing and beautiful!

A smart way to take advantage if you have limited time in Budapest is to pre-book your ticket online and skip the lines at Széchenyi, which can often be quite long, and instead get helped right away at their special Welcome Desk.

Buying tickets online are the same price as buying at Széchenyi, but it saves you time. You can book in advance here to skip the line.

Money Saving Tip: If you book online, you’ll be asked if you need a cabin – I would say no, unless you have an issue with changing in front of people of the same gender.

The ordinary lockers are secure, and the cabin is basically just a small closet that gives you privacy to change in – it’s not somewhere you can lounge or relax in.

Get your full-day pass – with or without a cabin – here!

However, if you prefer indoor thermal baths, I think the Gellért Baths are the more beautiful of the two.

Allison Green, wearing a backless bathing suit in black, with her hair half-pinned-up, sitting in front of the 36 degree indoor thermal bath in Gellert Baths in Budapest, a beautiful indoor bathhouse in an Art Nouveau style, with lots of blue tile.

With gorgeous Art Nouveau architecture and stunning blue-tiled interiors that are unlike any other building I’ve seen before, Gellért is a wonderful place to while away a blustery Budapest winter day.

Opened in 1918, the Gellért Baths on the Buda side of the river are part of Hotel Gellért, though anyone can purchase a day pass to use the baths.

The Gellért complex has several rooms with heated pools of different temperatures as well as saunas and massage rooms.

Entrance lines can be quite bad at Gellért too – luckily, you can outsmart the rest of the tourists by pre-booking your full-day entrance ticket online here.

Again, renting a cabin is only necessary if you don’t feel comfortable changing in front of other people of the same gender.

There are other thermal baths as well which are a bit more off the beaten path, such as the Rudas Baths which have a gorgeous outdoor bath overlooking the Danube and one of Budapest’s eight bridges – swoon!

I haven’t personally been to these baths yet, but they are next on my list after seeing gorgeous photos of the views, which are especially lovely at sunset.

Sunset views at the Rudas Baths outdoor bathing area, which overlooks the Danube River and its beautiful pink and orange light.

For a fun experience they have a dining and full-day entrance package deal.

It’s a nice way to unwind, especially after doing something like a Budapest cave tour (which is located pretty close to the Rudas Baths)!

No matter which you choose, all the baths use naturally geothermic water chock full of minerals like calcium, magnesium, chloride, sulfate, and fluoride, which are all purported to have magical, anti-aging, skin-refreshing benefits.

Be sure to bring your own swimsuit, flip flops, and towel or you’ll have to rent or buy them… which is not cheap.

I forgot to bring flip flops (I mean, in my defense, who packs for Central Europe in winter thinks to bring flip flops?) and had to pay like $15 USD for a single use pair… that gave me sad-looking blisters on my toes. Fun!

Have coffee and a pastry at one of Budapest’s best coffee shops.

A layered cake with different flavors like nuts and poppy seeds, next to a cup of coffee with beautiful latte art, on a checkered table in a cafe in Budapest.

Budapest’s coffee scene is booming, with a handful of delicious third wave and specialty coffee shops popping up around the city.

I tried a few during my stay, the best of which were Apricot Coffee in the Palace District and Espresso Embassy in District V.

I especially loved the delicious flódni cake at Espresso Embassy. It’s a traditional Jewish cake composed of layers of walnut, poppy seed, fruit jam (usually plum or apricot), and spiced apples. It’s beautiful to look at and even better to taste!

Espresso Embassy is also a great place if you find yourself needing to work on your trip.

I spent a few hours here catching up on e-mails and it was a great atmosphere for it, with fast wifi and a creative, buzzy vibe without being too loud.

Catch a Christmas light show at the St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Facade of the St Stephen Basilica in Budapest, a beautiful large church. The facade has a bright red and floral patterned visual projection on the building face, creating a beautiful Christmas-themed light show.

If you are traveling Budapest in December before the markets close, you’re in luck – you won’t miss the spectacular light show which gets projected onto the face of the St. Stephen’s Basilica!

This quirky light show is rather magical to watch dance across the white building face of the Neoclassical basilica.

It plays every 30 minutes (on the hour and half past the hour) after dark, so you’ll have plenty of chances to catch it.

The light show runs from roughly the last week of November until the end of December, in concordance with the Christmas market in the square.

Apparently the show is actually watchable in 3D, and you can get glasses somewhere at the market!

I had no idea and just watched it without the glasses (3D glasses make me nauseous anyway) and found it enjoyable.

The light shows have been going on since the first Christmas market at the Basilica in 2011, and are now a beloved part of a Budapest Christmas.

The Christmas market in this square also has a small ice rink for children, delicious food and drink options (don’t miss the mulled wine – a great way to warm up in winter!) and handicrafts on sale.

View during the day from the rooftop of the Basilica in Budapest, looking onto snow-covered rooftops, a Ferris wheel, and the Budapest skyline.

While you shouldn’t miss the light show, be sure to also go inside earlier in the day and see the beautiful interior, which is open from 10 AM to 4 PM each day in winter.

It’s free to enter but a donation is recommended to keep this basilica looking beautiful.

Even better, don’t miss the opportunity to go up to the top. The panoramic tower, which costs 600 forint or about $2 USD, is open until 6 PM.

It’s possible to get a photo of Budapest’s Christmas markets all lit up and glittering in the night since the sun sets around 4 PM in December in Budapest.

View from the top of the Basilica in Budapest at night, where you can see the Christmas lights of the market bright and vibrant, and a central Christmas tree

There are two elevators so if stairs are difficult for you (or you’re really lazy, like me) you can take these up, although note that you will still have to climb some stairs so it is not accessible for those with mobility limitations.

Another fantastic way to experience St. Stephen’s Cathedral is by enjoying a classical music concert, offered twice a week on Sundays and Tuesdays.

You can book your ticket and choose your seating area online here.

Keep in mind that as concerts only happen on Sundays and Tuesdays, and they often sell out a week or two in advance – so book early!

Visit the beautiful Vajdahunyad Castle.

The christmas market all set up and festive in front of the vajdahunyad castle in one of the parks in Hungary’s capital city of Budapest in winter

The Vajdahunyad Castle is beautiful all year round, but it turns fairy-tale-level magical coated in snow.

While it may look old, looks are deceiving and the castle has an interesting origin story!

It was first built in 1896 for a temporary exhibit celebrating 1,000 years of the Hungarian state, made of cardboard and wood.

However, it was so beloved that it was made into a permanent stone and brick castle in 1908.

The castle’s look is particularly distinctive as it contains copies of several buildings from different eras of Hungary’s rule.

The most notable of these castle styles was copied from the Hunyad Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Romania (remember, Transylvania was once part of the Hungarian kingdom!).

This mishmash contains elements of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, creating one crazy-interesting castle.

It’s home to the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture, which is the biggest agricultural museum in Europe.

Since I’m not really an agriculture nerd (what, you neither?) I just walked around and enjoyed the beautiful castle grounds, particularly the adorable Christmas market stalls around the entrance.

If you’re visiting Budapest in January or February, you’ll miss the Christmas market here, but it’s still well worth visiting regardless – especially as it’s close to the ice skating rink and Széchenyi baths, two other Budapest winter musts.

This area is also a popular place to explore on Budapest segway tours which can be a fun way to see the city in winter!

Go ice skating in a scenic location.


View of the sunset on the ice rink of Budapest with beautiful architecture behind it.

The biggest ice skating rink in Budapest, and indeed the biggest outdoor ice rink in all of Europe, you shouldn’t miss ice skating in City Park on the lake in front of Vajdahunyad Castle at Varosligeti Mujegpalya.

The hours vary a bit, but here is a rough estimate of the schedule: 9 AM to 1 PM, a 4-hour break, then from 5 PM to 9 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 2 PM, a 2-hour break, and then from 4 PM to 9 PM on weekends.

So if you go in the middle of the day like I stupidly did without researching it first… you will be disappointed!

Tickets cost 1000-1500 HUF (about $4-5 USD) on weekdays and 2000 HUF (about $7), plus an extra cost for skate rental (800 HUF or about $3 USD per hour), so it’s a pretty inexpensive way to enjoy Budapest in winter.

There are a few other ice rinks in Budapest, like the teeny-tiny ice rink in Basilica Christmas Market or the smaller Obuda Christmas Market, but neither come close to the size or beauty of this ice rink.

The nice thing about a big rink like this is just how much space you have to spread out and enjoy vs. being cramped in a small rink!

Curl up with a book in Budapest’s prettiest library.

A beautiful spiral wood staircase, with library details and books and people enjoying the reading room in a pretty Budapest library.

Hidden in a dull-looking modern library, this gorgeous 19th-century aristocrat’s mansion has been converted into a stunning library (the Ervin Szabó Library) for all to enjoy.

The rooms have been preserved beautifully, showing the elegance of turn-of-the-century interior design and providing a window into the life of its original owners, the wealthy Wenckheim family.

It was purchased by the City Council in 1931, who converted the palace into reading rooms for a library.

At first, you may be a bit confused as it looks like you are just entering a normal public library.

But the upper floor reading room is truly like something out of Beauty and the Beast!

The rooms are simply gorgeous, and you’ll find locals with laptops studying or lolling about in the su-filled rooms with a book in hand with beautiful Neo-Baroque architecture everywhere you look.

A chandelier in the reading room of the most scenic part of the Budapest library with people sitting and enjoying some books

It’s called the Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library, located just a few blocks from the metro stop at Kalvin tér.

It doesn’t look like much at first glance – just an ordinary city library.

It can be a bit confusing to find the beautiful part of the library so first find the information desk (you may need to be redirected to someone who speaks English).

There, you can pay a small fee – I think it was about 600 HUF, around $2 USD, cash only – for a small slip of paper which will grant you admission to the library on the 4th floor.

If you have time, find a seat and curl up with a book (I’d recommend bringing your own rather than trying to find one) and while away a few wintry hours here!

It’s open every day except Sunday, from 10 AM to 8 PM (4 PM on Saturdays).

Taste delicious Hungarian wines.

Three glasses of white wine for tasting, with several pieces of cheese, while attending a wine tasting class in Budapest in winter.

I don’t know what it is, but as soon as winter hits, I find myself shunning beer and drinking wine all winter long – white, red, sparkling, it doesn’t matter, I’m into it.

Luckily, Hungary is an under-the-radar wine powerhouse, producing some of the most stellar wines I’ve ever tried… and that’s high praise as I grew up just outside Napa County – I’m certainly no stranger to good wine!

If you have time during your Budapest winter trip, I highly recommend doing this wine tasting class – it’s with the same company I went on my food tour with.

At the wine tasting class, you’ll try eight wines – one sparkling, three white wines, three red wines, and one Tokaji dessert wine.

All the tastings are led by a sommelier, so even if you don’t know much about wine (Hungarian or otherwise) beforehand, you’ll have learned a ton by the end of the two hours.

The sparkling wine was a magnificent welcome, but the white wines afterwards stole the show – I think this is where Hungarian wine shines the brightest! They were fantastic paired with three local cheeses.

Next, we tried three red wines, which were also delicious and went perfectly with the charcuterie pairings. My favorite of the reds was the Bull’s Blood blend.

Three Hungarian red wines served with a sampling of cheeses, dried fruits, meats, etc. at a wine tasting class in Budapest in winter

The story behind the wine’s name is a fun one!

The legend goes that during a 16th century battle in present-day Eger, the Hungarians beat the Ottomans — much to everyone’s surprise after quite a lot of liquid courage.

Meanwhile, the teetotalling Ottomans thought that the Hungarians’ wine-stained faces were painted red from bull’s blood!

Whether the story is true or legend, I can attest that the wine is certainly delicious.

But the real star is, of course, Tokaji, a dessert wine for which Hungary is deservedly famous.

And paired with a creamy blue cheese, it’s one of the dreamiest flavor combinations I’ve ever had in my life.

Blue cheese and yellow tokaji dessert wine in a small glass

Truly, if I could afford to end every night of my life with Tokaji and blue cheese, I would!

This is the exact tour that I took, and it was a definite highlight of my last trip to Budapest.

The wine will warm you up and it’s insanely educational while still being really accessible, great for everyone from wine geeks to novices alike. I definitely recommend this if you’re curious about Hungarian wine!

If you have more time, you could even take a wine tour from Budapest for a half-day or full-day.

Book your Hungarian wine tasting class online here!

Take a festive winter tram.

A festive lit-up Christmas tram in Budapest, with the Ferris wheel all lit up and also decorated behind it, showing the holiday spirit in Budapest in December.

One of the cutest Budapest Christmas traditions, the winter trams and buses have been running for over a decade.

A simple but adorable initiative, the city wraps several of their trams and buses in literally thousands of LED lights and sends them crisscrossing around the city after dark, brightening everyone’s night.

The most classic way to enjoy a winter tram would be to take the Budapest number 2 line along the Danube.

They also run on the 4, 14, and 47 lines, but be sure to check the schedule as they don’t actually run on each line every day.

This site more info on when the Christmas trams run. You can also find them on a handful of trolleybuses, namely 70, 72, 75, 76, 80A and 83.

While on the outside these trams are glowing and charming, they’re also decorated within as well!

Even better, there is no added charge to take a Christmas tram – it’s just 350 HUF or 450 HUF if bought from the driver (about 1.25-1.50 USD), making it one of the cheapest things to do in Budapest in winter!

Tour the magnificent Hungarian Parliament building.

Exterior view of the Budapest Parliament building from across the Danube river, with chunks of ice floating on the river, making it a beautiful winter scene.

A true icon of Budapest, if you don’t see the Hungarian Parliament building on your trip to Budapest in winter (or anytime, frankly), then you are truly missing out.

Construction started on the Parliament Building in 1885 and was intended to be finished in time for the 1896 1,000 year anniversary, but it would take 6 more years after that – despite employing over 1,000 workers to build it!

The building was inspired by London’s Houses of Parliament, but I think you’d be hard-pressed to find a person who doesn’t find the Hungarian Parliament to be even more beautiful.

Since you cannot visit the inside of the Hungarian Parliament without a guide, it’s highly recommended to plan in advance and book a tour.

This is especially true if you are visiting Budapest in December when the winter tourist season is at its peak!

In peak season, you must book at least a week in advance, especially if you are looking for an English-language tour. You can book a tour here!

Prebooking allows you to skip the line and simply pick up your tickets at the Visitor Center before your designated tour time.

Tours last 45 minutes, a perfect way to warm up from the cold winter weather and see one of the most beautiful buildings in the world in one fell swoop.

Don’t be disappointed – tours often book well in advance, especially the English tours! Check your travel dates and book in advance to make sure you don’t miss out.

White staircase with red carpets and huge vaulted gilded ceilings with lots of ornate detail that makes it look very royal and majestic inside the Budapest Parliament on a Parliament tour

Inside, it’s pure majesty – literally, 40 kilograms of gold majesty (my fellow confused-looking Americans, that’s nearly 90 pounds) accenting the intricately-designed ceiling and sweeping Grand Staircase.

As if that wasn’t enough bling, you’ll also get to see the Crown of St. Stephen.

It’s constantly kept under watch by two guards who rather dramatically change their swords’ position every 5 minutes.

Photo Tip: I recommend walking across the bridge to the other side of the Danube and getting your photos near the Batthyány Tér metro stop – this is where everyone goes for their classic Parliament photos like the one above!

Warm up in a ruin pub.

Strange knickknacks and other assorted objects in a Budapest ruin bar, which is a flea-market-like decorated bar in the Jewish district. A famous part of any Budapest visit.

Ruin pubs (also called ruin bars) are a Budapest institution and I think that it’s an essential part of any visit to the city.

While granted, they have become quite touristy, I think it’s with good reason: there is no real equal to these pubs anywhere else I can think of.

Ruin pubs started cropping up in the Jewish Quarter in the early 2000s, which was previously full of abandoned buildings after World War II decimated Hungary’s Jewish population.

It all started as an experiment of sorts, when some locals took over an abandoned building complex in the area and furnished it with random antiques and junk.

They started selling cheap drinks to a crowd of young forward-thinking people: this enterprise would end up being known as Szimpla Kert, the first and most famous ruin pub.

Allison's hand holding a glass of palinka at a Budapest ruin bar

While Szimpla is easily the most popular, it’s not without its reasons. I spent a good portion of my first summer trip in Budapest drinking cheap wine (literally, the equivalent of 80 cents for a 100 ml glass) and enjoying the shade.

I returned to Szimpla this winter and found it just as cozy and lovely as I did in summer.

I just kept my coat on but it wasn’t that cold… nothing a short of two of pálinka couldn’t help!

A shisha menu (hookah) at Szimpla Kert ruin bar in Budapest’s Jewish district, with prices listed.

If you like shisha/nargile (aka hookah), there are also water pipes available to rent here for about $13-18 USD for a pipe for as many people as you like.

There are way more ruin pubs than just this, Budapest’s largest – but sometimes it’s best to keep things szimpla, no?

(Pardon the pun, I truly can’t help myself sometimes.)

If you want to check out the other ruin pubs in Budapest, a fun way is with a ruin pub crawl through the city – you can book the most popular one, the Drunken History Pub Crawl, here.

One last note: please don’t get too drunk and be respectful of the neighbors when going out in the Jewish District.

Many people are leaving their homes because of the horrible behavior of tourists who treat Budapest like a party spot and not like a real city with actual residents.

By all means, go out and have a good time, but know your limits and call it quits before you start acting a fool.

Stroll down Váci utca.

People in their winter outfits, wearing winter jackets and hats, etc. strolling down the festively-lit street called Vaci Utca which is one of the most popular pedestrian paths in the city.

Váci utca is one of the most famous streets in Budapest and it’s even more scenic in winter!

Starting in mid-November, it’s lit up beautifully and decorated cozily, making it a beautiful place to walk (and the fact that you end up at the largest Christmas Market in the city sure doesn’t hurt).

While Váci utca is quite touristic (skip the restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops on this street, as it’ll just be overpriced and low quality) it is still magical, full of beautiful buildings and Budapest charm.

Start at the Central Market Hall (more below) and walk it all the way to Vörösmarty tér.

It’s well worth strolling, especially all lit up for winter – just resist the people calling you in to eat at their restaurants.

My general travel rule of thumb applies here – never eat somewhere where they have to hire someone to lure people in off the street. You’ll pay for it either with low-quality food or high prices!

Snack and shop at the Central Market Hall.


The exterior of the Budapest Market Hall, with a little dusting of snow on the colorful mosaic roof, with beautiful blue sky behind it on a wintery day.

Housed in a gorgeous Neogothic covered market hall building, the Central Market Hall is a Budapest winter must.

This is the place to go for any souvenirs, edible or otherwise – you’ll get fair prices and above-average quality.

The paprika and other spices on offer here are going to be much fresher than you’d find in some random shop on Váci utca.

But there’s one main reason why you should visit the Market Hall: rétes.


The interior view of the Budapest Market Hall in winter, with people in winter coats enjoying a break from the cold, with a festively lit and decorated food hall.

This delicious, flaky strudel sold on the first floor is one of the best pastries that I’ve ever tasted – that sour cherry (meggyes) rétes alone will bring me back to Budapest time and again.

Skip the restaurants on the second floor, which are low quality, though the lángos here is passable.

Or, do it one better and go on a Market Hall Tour which will show you an insider look at the Great Market Hall and all its best treats!

It’s the perfect Budapest winter activity

Book a Market Hall food tour here!

Peruse the stacks at a beautiful bookstore.


Exterior of the famous Budapest bookstore in Pest side of the city called Atlantis book island, with beautiful display.

Budapest is no stranger to beautiful bookstores, which are a great place to while away a few cold hours.

There are several cozy places where you can rifle through shelves full of books (many with plenty of English-language options), which is one of my favorite things to do in winter, in Budapest or elsewhere.

Two of my favorites are both in the Jewish District: Atlantisz Book Island, which has plenty of new books and a gorgeous layout, and Massolit Books & Cafe, which has a smaller selection of English-language books but also a cute café (and super Instagrammable doors).


One of the famous book carts in Budapest that sell used books, though mostly Hungarian titles, for a good price. The carts are green and stand-alone and sit outside on the streets.

If you want to save some money and buy some books, Yellow Zebra near the Hungarian State Opera also has a nice selection of used books.

And of course, you can’t miss the cute book carts scattered around the city center, though these tend to have primarily Hungarian titles.

Explore Budapest’s synagogues and Jewish history.

The exterior of the largest synagogue in Budapest with red stripes and golden domes and a clock on the tower.

Like so many countries in Central and Eastern Europe, Budapest’s Jewish population was forever changed by the Holocaust.

The Jewish District, formerly the Jewish Ghetto, was largely depopulated for the second half of the 20th century and only started experiencing a revival in the last 20 years.

While the Jewish District’s revival has been primarily driven by tourists, the preservation of this part of Budapest’s history is important.

One of the best ways to ensure that the district continues to preserve its history is by visiting its synagogues.

In particular, don’t miss the beautiful Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest in Europe and the second largest in the world, fitting nearly 3,000 people inside.

It was built in the 19th century, primarily in the Moorish Revival style, but also incorporating Byzantine, Romantic and Gothic design elements.

After the Holocaust decimated Budapest’s Jewish community, the Dohány Street Synagogue fell into disuse.

After the fall of communism, it was renovated extensively, which took nearly 5 years (the same amount of time it took to build, incidentally) to finish. Now, it welcomes tourists throughout the year.

While the price of admission is rather high, especially for Budapest which is largely pretty affordable, it goes towards ongoing renovation work and ensuring that this beautiful, resilient historic building can be enjoyed by all in the future.

I recommend prebooking your ticket to avoid lines, especially if you’re visiting during the Christmas market season when Budapest is still quite busy.

Eat (overpriced) cake in one of the beautiful classic coffee houses.

A slice of chocolate cake with layers of raspberry interior and also a creme interior with a dollop of cream atop. You can see the details of a Christmas tree in the background inside a fancy cafe.

One of the most can’t-miss things to do in Budapest in winter is eating a delicious (but expensive) piece of cake in one of its iconic coffee houses.

There are two popular, classic options: New York Café and Central Café. I’ve eaten at both, and both are exquisite.

The New York Café looks more like an ornate chapel with beautifully painted ceilings and architectural details, whereas the Central Café has a more understated yet elegant charm.

Three green velvet stools at the Budapest cafe called Central Cafe  which dates back to 1887 as stated on the blue sign at the bar.

I had a delicious sour cherry and poppy seed cake and a perfect cappuccino at the fin-de-siècle-era Central Café during my recent trip to Budapest, while a jazz band played softly in the background.

It was the perfect way to rest my legs and warm up a bit, and I mean – look at the surroundings. It was well worth the hefty price, which was about $10 USD for a cake and coffee.

Go on a (heated) Danube river cruise.

View of the Budapest Parliament at night from a river boat with it all lit up and beautiful in a golden color

Does a river cruise seem like a summer-only thing?

Luckily, in winter Budapest’s riverboats are enclosed and heated, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere for a dinner river cruise even on the most miserable winter days.

The most magical way to experience the Danube is at night, lit by candles and with live music in the background as you cruise!

You’ll pass by sites as beautiful as the Hungarian Parliament, the Gellért Baths, and the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, all of which get an extra beautiful glow at night.

For the most special way to experience the Danube, book a beautiful dinner cruise – accompanied by live music! It’s more affordable than you’d think, at about 45 euros per person.

Book your dinner cruise with live music here!

If you’re visiting Budapest during the holidays, there are special cruises specifically for New Years and Christmas.

It’s a way to celebrate in real style!

Check holiday cruises here!

Where to Stay in Budapest in Winter

view of the small ice rink from above on the tower at St Stephen Basilica in the winter

Personally, I recommend staying in the Pest side of town. It’s my favorite part of town!

While Buda has a lot of beautiful places to visit, Pest is more convenient for walking and sightseeing since it is flat and more closely resembles a grid than the winding streets of Buda. 

Also, there are far better food and nightlife options in Pest than Buda. I’ve spent 3 weeks in Budapest over the years and I pick Pest every time!

Budget: Maverick City Lodge

For budget seekers, Maverick City Lodge is a beautiful boutique hostel, focused on detail and functionality.

It’s well-maintained and aesthetically-pleasing, a sharp contrast to the many gross party hostels you’ll find in Budapest.

Maverick keeps it simple but does the simple stuff right: each bed has its own privacy curtain, outlet, reading light, etc.

It’s located right in the heart of the Jewish Quarter so pretty much everything you would need is at your fingertips. 

It’s one of the highest rated budget options on Booking.com so book in advance to reserve a spot. Check rates, availability, and reviews here.

Mid-Range: D8 Hotel

I love when a hotel has a distinct personality with fun décor and isn’t just a bland place to crash at night – but doesn’t cost a fortune either — and D8 Hotel is the perfect blend of both!

It reminds me a lot of one of my favorite hotel chains, citizenM – fun and funky, personality-driven, but not fussy.

Their rooms are spacious, the design of the hotel lobby and common areas is just fantastic, and it has a great location near Szechenyi Chain Bridge. 

It’s modern and new and has a 8.9 rating on Booking.com as of last update, so check rates, availability, and reviews here.

Luxury: Aria Hotel Budapest

If your trip to Budapest in winter is all about luxury, then Aria Hotel Budapest is my #1 recommendation!

I love unique luxury properties that offer something more one-of-a-kind than their brand name luxury counterparts.

This music-themed hotel has beautiful design elements — I love the marble floor with piano detailing and purple accents.

The rooms are massive and I love that it’s designed like a traditional Budapest apartment with an inner courtyard that the rooms all look out over. And those 5-star amenities like the sauna and indoor pool are swoon-worthy!

This hotel would cost twice or triple the price if it were in Paris, New York, or London, but it’s Budapest, so prices are reasonable even for the most coveted hotel in town. 

Check rates, availability, and reviews here.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Cheers to being covered while traveling Budapest in winter!

When planning any trip, especially a winter trip, be sure not to forget about travel insurance!

I use SafetyWing and its Nomad Insurance to insure all of my trips for its affordable rates and comprehensive coverage for all my travel needs.

With the unpredictability of winter weather in Europe, it’s especially important for me to have coverage.

SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance policy provides both travel insurance (coverage for trip delays, cancellations, interruptions — the likelihood of which increases in winter) and travel medical insurance (coverage for things like accidents, illnesses including Covid, etc. — also more likely in winter!).

Coverage is really affordable — for me, it costs roughly $12 USD for a week of coverage in Europe.

Check SafetyWing for a quote here!

7 Magical Things to Do in Abisko This Winter

barren trees and frozen ice blue waterfalls in Abisko National Park

One of the most memorable places I’ve ever visited in my 60-something countries of travel was my trip to Abisko in the winter of 2016.

It was before I was even blogging, but visiting Swedish Lapland in winter all covered in snow still remains one of the top travel highlights of the last decade or so I’ve been traveling.

While I’m sure Abisko, Sweden is a lovely place to visit at any time of year, it truly shines in winter.

I visited in mid-February and found the weather to be perfect!

The days were finally getting long enough to ensure plenty of sunshine hours (okay, like six or seven).

But more importantly, the nights were early and dark enough that I got to see the Northern lights dancing overhead literally every night!

The Most Magical Things to Do in Abisko in Winter

Take advantage of the “Blue Hole” and go Northern lights spotting.

northern-lights-budget
The photo I took in Abisko in winter — not as fantastic as many professionals, but this gives you an idea of how vibrant the lights really are!

The thing about seeing the Northern lights is that often, even though the lights will be roaring overhead, the clouds overhead can get in the way.

The geomagnetic activity that creates the bands of the aurora is way above where you’ll usually see clouds settle.

What that means for you is that if there are lots of clouds on the night you’re attempting to see the Northern lights, you’re unlikely to have much success.

While many people choose to go to Norway or Iceland in hopes of seeing the Northern Lights, the fact that most of these countries’ popular destinations are coastal doesn’t do you any favors.

Coastal climates such as Tromso are more temperamental with more frequent cloud cover in winter, decreasing your chances of seeing the Northern lights.

Abisko, on the other hand, has a microclimate that’s been blessed with clearer weather than other places in the Arctic.

Neon green and purplish bands of light, part of the Northern lights, forming an arcing motion, over snow-covered trees in Abisko in winter.

Why’s that? It’s all thanks to the so-called “Blue Hole” effect, caused by the effect that the massive Lake Torneträsk and its surrounding mountains have on the weather of the region.

As a result, Northern lights spotting is one of the top things to do in Abisko in winter!

The statistics say that if you stay in Abisko for three nights, you have an 80% chance of seeing the Northern lights in Abisko (my full guide to seeing them is here!)

Anecdotally, I stayed for three nights and saw them every night of my stay to some degree or another, the most spectacular show on my final night.

In contrast, I spent 7 days in Tromso and saw the Northern lights only twice in the city itself.

The exact physics behind this meteorological phenomenon is a mystery to me, but all I can say is that the odds proved in my favor.

In fact, on that trip, had to take a pricy Northern lights tour from Tromso to see even a fraction of the spectacle I saw in Abisko — and we went all the way to Finland to achieve that!

A view of the Northern lights in ABisko, with a snow-covered small house like a sauna or shed, leaf-less trees, and green sky and some clouds.

Even with Abisko’s relatively high odds, I struggled to see the Northern lights on my first two nights despite there being plenty of solar activity.

Had I gone on a guided excursion for the Northern lights in Abisko, I undoubtedly would have had a different experience those first two nights and gotten to see more.

The great thing about doing a Northern lights tour is that your guides will do their best to find (relatively) cloud-free skies.

Beautiful colors of the aurora in shades of bright green, with the moon behind a cloud, streaks of cloud, and a town along the water.

They’ll study the aurora’s strength as well as the weather in order to take you to places where you can see the lights the best and ideally have some beautiful compositions for your photos.

This Northern lights photography tour is slightly more expensive than other options, since it’s photography-focused and includes high-quality camera rentals.

You are given a high-quality camera with all the settings dialed in for you plus a sturdy tripod to use (all you have to bring camera-wise is your own memory card, or buy one off them).

Of course, if you have your own photography gear, you can use that instead.

The tours are restricted to 8 people per group, so you’ll want to save your spot in advance.

Book your Northern lights photography tour here!

The beautiful aurora in the sky over Abisko, Sweden, with water in the foreground, a low-lying cloud in the distance, and city lights in the far distance.

However, since this tour come with a lot of inclusions, it does come at a steeper cost.

If budget is a concern, I recommend this similar Northern lights chasing tour which lasts for 4 hours and takes you to various places where you can get stellar compositions for your photos.

However, keep in mind that this does not include any photography equipment.

If you don’t have a DSLR or mirrorless camera plus tripod setup capable of setting up long exposure photos, it’s not the ideal tour for you.

Book your budget Abisko Northern lights tour here!

Alternately, you can do what I did and just hope for luck with the lights!

It worked for me one night out of three, and maybe it’ll work for you too, and it won’t cost you a cent.

Go dog sledding and cuddle some husky pups.

Allison standing on a dog sled with two light brown huskies in the front and two dark brown or black huskies in the back, with Swedish winter landscape behind her.
Me and my happy team of pups!

While seeing the Northern lights was incredible, it wasn’t my favorite of all the things to do in Abisko.

That honor belongs to the incredible dog-sledding tour (and subsequent puppy-cuddling) I took in Abisko!

For those who haven’t had the chance yet, dog-sledding is so much more interesting, involved, and difficult than you’d imagine.

I think I pictured a leisurely ride through the snow… but I opted for the drive-your-own-dogsled option where you had to man your sled, steer, brake, and help your dogs up hills in the snow.

It was one hell of a workout and an incredibly thrilling day out. Working as a team with your dogs, looking out on the vast Arctic landscape, was truly a life-changing experience and the best money I spent on my Sweden trip.

Especially since it came with a side of husky pup cuddles (obviously there won’t always be puppies, but we got lucky when we visited!)

Allison in glasses and a grey hat, with her eyes closed, smiling as she cuddles a black and white husky puppy with one brown eye and one blue eye.
The best part? Puppy cuddles afterwards!

While I’m generally quite wary of animal activities in tourism, this is one I can make an exception for.

These huskies have been domesticated for exactly this kind of life for thousands of years: it’s literally what they were born to do.

The dogs live in great conditions and are given tons of love and rest time in between sled rides, as well as dedicated days off.

Their individual personalities are known and respected; for example, the staff knows exactly which dogs to pair up based on their personalities.

Allison smiling while wearing a hat, scarf, glasses, and a blue thermal suit, with two huskies pawing at her playfully.
Never too many puppy photos!

They also know what order to place the dogsled teams in, as some teams prefer to be leaders and some have their own rivalries!

As for the huskies, they truly seem to love what they do. They actually get so excited as they’re being harnessed up that they start howling in anticipation!

Keep in mind that driving your own dogsled is way more difficult than it looks and requires a good deal of physical strength.

Because of that, it’s not really suitable for kids – on this tour, you have to be 16 or older to drive your own sled – or people with limited mobility or injuries.

But if you can handle it, this is my #1 thing to do in Abisko!

I recommend booking it online in advance because as far as I know, they’re the only husky sledding tour operator in Abisko.

View of the dog sledding tours going out for a run on the beautiful snow-covered landscape

If you’re traveling with kids or people with limited mobility, a better option is to sit back and enjoy dog-sledding led by a musher.

With this option, you’re the ones getting driven through the snow by a team of huskies while a musher drives the sled.

Personally, I think getting to drive your own sled is a lot more fun (though a lot more work), but this isn’t a half-bad option if you can’t man your own sled.

Plus, it’s the only option for those with young kids, as the self-drive tour is 16+ where this tour is perfect for those traveling with kids aged 5 and up.

Check out more info and book online here

Chase (frozen) waterfalls in Abisko National Park.

frozen waterfalls in Abisko National Park

Fun fact: Abisko National Park was one of the first national parks in all of Europe – and when you visit for yourself, you’ll see why.

It’s a truly breathtaking place and in winter Abisko National Park becomes utterly magical under a dusting of snow.

But what’s most impressive are the impressive waterfalls you’ll find just a short but snowy hike from STF Abisko Turiststation (the front desk staff there can help draw you a map).

It took us about 15-minutes trudging through Abisko’s winter wonderland to come across these beautiful waterfalls, and boy was it worth the cold!

Take it up a notch and go ice climbing up the waterfalls!

people doing ice climbing in abisko national park, sweden with lots of of cold weather gear, helmets, and visible frozen waterfall

If you’re feeling exceptionally brave, we saw people ice climbing up the waterfalls, using a modified top-rope style set-up with pickaxes and crampons.

Back when I saw this when I visited, that elicited a big old nope from me — it’s not something I thought I’d ever want to do.

Many years later, now that I love rock climbing, it’s on my bucket list to return and try ice climbing!

Of course, unless you’re an experienced ice climber (who is?), this is something you’d want to do with an expert, certified tour guide.

This 3-hour tour introduces you to all the basics of ice climbing, to learn what it takes to climb a vertical call of ice and how it differs from standard rock climbing.

Of course, you’ll be given all the necessary gear: alpine boots, crampons, a harness, ice axes, a helmet, etc. 

Just bring your own warm clothing and any food and drinks you might need during your climb!

Book your ice climbing excursion here!

Learn about the indigenous Sámi culture

People around a fire inside a traditional Sami-style lavvo tent

One thing I’ve been trying to do more as part of being a responsible traveler is to educate myself about the indigenous people of the lands I’m visiting.

The Sámi people are the indigenous people of the Sápmi region which encompasses northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Kola peninsula in Russia.

The Sámi have stewarded the land in these regions for at least 2,000 years.

They’ve preserved their traditions, language, and culture despite the harsh Arctic climates and attempts to force assimilation through political and “educational” means.

Despite the division of their ancestral lands into four distinct modern-day nations, Sámi culture is alive and well, and there are ways you can experience it if visiting Abisko in winter!

Go on a reindeer tour with a Sámi guide.

A white reindeer on a Sami led tour guide where you meet the reindeers on a local farm in Sweden

Reindeer have historically held an important role in Sámi life and industry.

Historically, the Sámi would hunt reindeer, but that’s changed, and since the 1500s the Sámi began herding reindeer and domesticating them in a manner similar to cattle.

While this is still part of the Sámi economy, the focus of reindeer herding has shifted in recent years towards tourism rather than animal agriculture.

Visits to Sámi villages often include visiting reindeer farms and getting a chance to feed reindeer and learn more about Sámi history.

Sami person interacting with a reindeer in an Arctic landscape while wearing traditional blue and red attire

This Sámi reindeer tour is the one I would recommend as it is facilitated by Lights over Lapland, which enjoys a great reputation in the region.

The 7-hour tour consists of a visit to the open-air museum called Márkanbáiki or also Nutti Sámi Siida, located in the town of Jukkasjärvi, about an hour away.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation, meeting and feeding the reindeer, learning about Sámi culture from an English-speaking Sámi tour guide, and lunch in a traditional Arctic lavvo.

A word of warning: your lunch may include reindeer – get in touch with them if you have dietary restrictions!

Book your Sámi reindeer tour here!

Visit the incredible ICEHOTEL.

The doors to enter the Ice Hotel in Sweden, made with giant blocks of ice, and a wooden door.

One of the most famous places in Sweden, a visit to the famous ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi is likely one of the top things to do on your Abisko itinerary.

I love visiting ice hotels — I’ve visited the Tromso Ice Domes and adored it — although I’ve never gotten the chance to stay the night in one.

Getting there from Abisko can be a bit of a pain, as it’s closer to Kiruna than Abisko.

There is no direct public transportation to the ICEHOTEL from Abisko, so you would have to transit via Kiruna, and I’m not even sure how you’d do that.

It’s far easier to go on a guided day trip like this one and not much more expensive.

Visiting the hotel for the day independently will cost you 375 SEK (~$35 USD) plus all your transportation costs from Abisko to Kiruna by train, then to Jukkasjärvi by bus, then back to Kiruna and then taking the train to Abisko again – easily another $35 USD.

That’s not without counting the significant headache of the limited public transportation up north, as I found out from my disastrous experience trying to navigate Kiruna’s public transportation…

… oh, about that, I ended up with me dragging myself and my backpack through a snowdrift while running to the train station so I didn’t miss the only train of the day… but I digress.

Long story short? Just book yourself the day trip and save yourself the stress.

The interior of the Ice Hotel in Sweden with ice sculptures and a bed covered in a reindeer skin

The ICEHOTEL is an incredible feat of engineering, which mashes up a hotel with an art exhibition — all of this 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle.

The original ICEHOTEL was created in 1989 and the ice structure is completely redone each year (hence the serious price tag on the cold rooms).

Incredibly, in 2016 they created a whole new hotel: a permanent structure with ice rooms that you can even visit (and stay in!) in the summer month, called ICEHOTEL 365.

Before you go worrying about the carbon footprint of such an undertaking — it’s completely cooled by solar panels so it’s eco-friendly!

While temperature is not a concern if you’re visiting Abisko in winter, it’s pretty amazing to think that this structure still exists in the summer when temperatures can reach 17° C or 63° F.

An interior of the snow hotel with impressively carved lattice-shaped ice and beautiful interior.

Keep in mind that the winter ICEHOTEL is constructed at the start of winter each year, so if you visit before the middle of December, it’s not likely to be finished.

It takes a team of 40 artists each year several weeks – not to mention months of planning – to create the ICEHOTEL completely from scratch each year, which is truly incredible.

If the seasonal ICEHOTEL not yet open, however, you can check out the ICEHOTEL 365 which is open all year round.

This structure has luxury suites you can stay in, and if no one is in the rooms you can take a peek inside.

Even better, it also has an ice bar serving up chilled champagne (what else?) to curious visitors and day-trippers, and there’s also an ice gallery you can visit no matter the time of year.

The day tour consists of a guided tour of the art suites, ice bar, and ice church – yes, you can actually get married here! – plus leisure time to explore the hotel, take photos, or even dine or drink there (not included)

Book your day tour of the ICEHOTEL here!

Explore the cute, curious town of Kiruna

An aerial view of the city of Kiruna, the larger town near Abisko, which is the center of activity in the region. Many houses, roads, etc. in the snowy landscape.

Kiruna is an easy day trip from Abisko, or if you fly into Kiruna in the morning you can explore the city before your afternoon train to Abisko.

Kiruna is a mining town, and herein lies the curiosity of this city: it’s actually in the process of being moved two miles away from its current center.

There is a giant crack in the earth progressing towards Kiruna at a slow but steady rate, at which point, at some time in the future, will swallow up Kiruna as it currently exists.

Check out this fascinating article which explains the situation far better than I ever could.

The town is in the process of slowly being moved bit by bit – annoyingly, the first bit to move was the train station, which is why it’s so inconveniently far out of town.

Taking a taxi or hitching a ride into town is recommended in winter, as the path into town is basically a highway and is extremely icy – we were lucky that when we tried to walk it, a local picked us up and gave us a ride in.

There’s actually quite a lot to see in this charming Arctic city, so let me break down a few of my favorite sights.

The snow-covered wooden church in Kiruna which looks like something out of a fairytale.

First, you can’t miss the wooden church of Kiruna – one of the largest wooden structures in all of Sweden!

The church is unique for having a Gothic Revival style with an Art Nouveau interior and is more than 100 years old. (It, too, will eventually be deconstructed and moved two miles away).

The town center is quite cute, and there’s lots of great shopping to be had for a town of its size. I really loved popping into the local design shop, Kvadrat, which had great mugs, textiles, text art, and other unique souvenirs.

Don’t miss a buffet lunch at SPiS Mat & Dryck, which offers a fantastic spread for an affordable price. There’s a wide variety of salads, soups, and cold and hot dishes, plus all you can drink coffee!

Allison's friend drinking a mug of coffee at a buffet in Kiruna.

Unfortunately, it can be hard to DIY a day trip to Kiruna from Abisko, since the first train of the day leaves Abisko Östra at 12:30 PM and arrives in Kiruna at 1:30 PM. That would be fine… if the final train didn’t leave at 2:49 PM!

Since the station isn’t that close to the center you would barely have any time in the city.

Therefore, it’s best to visit either on your way in or out of Kiruna airport (we did it after arriving on a morning flight and taking the 2:49 PM train to Abisko).

Alternately, as a day trip, you can book a shared shuttle that stops in Kiruna’s town center from Abisko on the way in and then take the train back to Abisko at the end of your day trip.

Take a day trip to Norway

A view of the town of Narvik Norway as seen from a lower vantage point with the houses in clear focus and mountains in the distance.

This is not as ambitious of an undertaking as it sounds, as Narvik, Norway is just two hours away by train.

It’s quite possible to do this trip independently, but you will have limited time in Narvik if you do.

The trains aren’t exactly set up for day-trippers, so the first train leaves at 11 AM and arrives just before 1 PM, but you’d have to leave on the last train of the day at 3:15 PM.

This gives you just about two hours to explore (double check timetables here, as they may change in the future).

Still, you can do a day trip independently for less than $16 USD roundtrip for two hours of exploring Narvik, which may be worth it.

When I went to Abisko in winter 2016, while I was itching to scratch Norway off my map, ultimately I felt like it wasn’t worth it to spend 4 hours in transit to spend 2 hours in Narvik, just to say I’ve been to Norway (I finally went in 2020 and Tromso in winter was so epic!)

In the end, I didn’t do the trip – but I didn’t know that there was a guided day tour option that gave you more time in Narvik.

It’s definitely pricier (check current rates and discounts here), but you get a lot more time to explore the beautiful fjord city of Narvik as a result.

On this comfortable shuttle tour, you’ll get to see a wide variety of Arctic landscapes, including the second deepest lake in Sweden at Lake Torneträsk, frozen waterfalls, stunning Norwegian mountains like Björnfell, and the fjord beaches of Narvik.

It also includes lunch (not a minimal expense when we’re talking Norway prices) and a visit to the Narvik War Museum, which explores battles the Norwegian Army faced during WWII.

Where to Stay in Abisko

Abisko is a rustic village of 85 people, and therefore, there’s not a ton in the way of guesthouse and hotel options.

Most of the places to stay veer towards the budget end of the spectrum, with a number of hostels and affordable guesthouses, as well as one traditional mountain lodge.

You can spend anywhere from around $35 USD for a bunk in a dorm to around $250 for a cabin sleeping 4-6 people.

northern-lights-on-a-budget
In Abisko National Park!

Budget

The owners of the dog sledding tour included above, Abisko Hostel & Huskies is a fantastic place to stay in Abisko if you are traveling on a budget.

This is actually where I had booked to stay in Abisko in 2016; unfortunately, the hostel ended up having an unforeseen issue and wasn’t able to host me, so it rebooked me at STF Turiststation (below), a more expensive place, in a better room at no extra cost to me.

That sort of above and beyond mentality was really encouraging, and while I didn’t get to see their facilities firsthand, I loved the dog-sledding tour I did with them.

With seriously affordable dorms and doubles and perks like a free sauna and shared kitchen, I can definitely recommend this hostel to budget and/or solo travelers in Sweden!

Check out photos, reviews, and prices here.

Mid-Range

I personally stayed at STF Turiststation and can highly recommend it – it was literally the best hostel I’ve ever stayed at, hands down, with not one but two incredible kitchens, a free sauna, and an incredible restaurant.

The breakfast and lunch buffets offer a great value in pricy Sweden, and while the dinner is definitely more expensive, it’s also incredibly delicious and well worth shelling out for on a special occasion.

Plus, you’re literally in Abisko National Park, just a 10-minute walk from the lake or frozen waterfalls: how much better can a location get?

Check out photos, reviews, and prices here.

Luxury

I’d recommend Abisko Mountain Lodge for a low-key but luxe stay in Abisko.

There aren’t a ton of luxury offerings in Abisko, so this is the closest option I could find.

While STF Turiststation is great, it is more a traditional hostel in that it’s mostly bunk bed rooms, with limited twin room options.

Abisko Mountain Lodge, on the other hand, is definitely more of a traditional hotel.

They have a variety of rooms from singles to doubles and even full cottages that sleep four.

There’s a sauna, restaurant, lounge area, and breakfast is included with most rooms!

Check out photos, reviews, and prices here.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

frozen waterfalls in Abisko National Park

When planning any trip, especially a winter trip, be sure not to forget about travel insurance!

I use SafetyWing and its Nomad Insurance to insure all of my trips for its affordable rates and comprehensive coverage for all my travel needs.

For a trip as expensive as traveling to Sweden (and the unpredictability of Arctic winter weather), it’s especially important for me to have coverage.

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance provides both travel insurance (coverage for trip delays, cancellations, interruptions — the likelihood of which increases in winter) and travel medical insurance (coverage for things like accidents, illnesses including Covid, etc. — also more likely in winter!).

Coverage is really affordable — for me, it costs roughly $11 USD for a week of coverage outside of the U.S., with a policy max of $250,000 after a deductible of $250. Not bad!

Check SafetyWing for a quote here!

13 Best Tromso Husky Tours & Best Tips for Dog Sledding in Tromso

Allison posing with a friendly husky after a dog sledding tour in Tromso

Dog sledding is a Tromso bucket list must — it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

There’s no more incredible feeling than bounding over powdery snow, powered only by a team of enthusiastic huskies and your steering.

From self-driving Tromso husky tours to musher-led tours, from daytime tours to nighttime tours with hopes of glimpsing the Northern lights above you, there’s a dog sledding tour in Tromso perfect for you!

In this post, I’m going to tell you exactly what it’s like to go dog sledding in Tromso and share the best favorite Tromso husky tours.

Head on view of a person dog sledding in Tromso with a team of huskies on a Tromso husky tour

I’m a huge dog sledding fan and I’ve gone dog sledding three times: once in Abisko, Sweden and twice in Tromso in the winter!

The Abisko dog sled tour was self-driven; one of my Tromso ones was a daytime self-driving tour as well.

The other Tromso tour I took was a nighttime combination with a Northern lights tour, where the musher drove the dog sled.

What to Expect on a Tromso Husky Tour

Allison Green in Tromso, Norway, with a happy husky licking her face after doing a dog sledding tour. She is wearing a red hat and blue scarf and a big smile.

What you experience depends what kind of tour you book, to be honest!

All the Tromso husky tours are quite different and require different levels of fitness or commitment. 

Here are a few different kinds of tours and my comments on each.

Self-Drive Tromso Husky Safari Tours

Allison smiling at the helm of a sledge for driving sled dogs
Me on my recent Tromso husky tour!

This is usually a daytime tour as it’s a bit tough to drive a dog-sled at night!

However, during the polar night in Tromso (December and January), you won’t have much light as you do a self-driving tour, so do keep this in mind. 

On a self-drive dog sled tour, you and a fellow tour participant — either someone in your group or a fellow solo traveler in my case — are in charge of leading your dogs.

You’ll bound through the landscape on a beautiful circuit, passing gorgeous Northern Norwegian landscapes like fjords and mountains. 

You take turns, one of you steering and the other sitting, and it’s actually a lot more hard work than it looks to steer the dog sled with your very own team of Alaskan huskies! 

This is no passive activity, but rather, you work as a team with the dogs. This means that you help the dogs run up hills, and you use your body weight to steer and also to brake as needed. 

You also have to keep your eye on the order of the dog sleds and not get out of order or race ahead of the line.

Keep in mind that these huskies aren’t pets, but rather working dogs.

There is a specific order to the line-up of sleds that the mushers organize based on their temperaments and relationships between the dogs.

I’ve done two self-drive dog sled tours and they are absolutely incredible.

Personally, they are my favorite way to do a dog sledding tour in Tromso, because it’s active and you develop a really cool bond with dogs as you work together. 

However, the con of doing a self-drive dog sled tour is that it is physically demanding, and it’s not suitable for people recovering from injuries, people with mobility concerns, or families with small children.

Musher-Driven Tours

Allison Green in the dark wearing a reflective snow suit with a scarf while on a Northern lights and husky tour
All cozy in my dog sled on my nighttime guided dog sledding tour!

I’ve done one musher-driven tour and it was also a super fun experience! I did a combination Northern lights tour with a dog-sledding tour and it was an Arctic adventure I’ll never forget.

On a musher-driven tour, you’ll be guided by expert mushers who know exactly how to handle the dogs and make sure everything goes smoothly. 

You don’t have to worry about making sure the dogs don’t run ahead of their assigned order.

The mushers ensure this won’t happen and have more of a relationship with the dogs because they’ve been working with them so long, so the dogs stay in line more and don’t test the waters!

Musher-driven tours are ideal for families, people with mobility concerns, and people who are a little anxious about doing their own self-driving husky sledding adventure. 

I loved the experience and was glad I got to do it, but personally, if I had to choose just one, I think a self-drive husky tour is more fun if it’s the right option for you!

The Best Winter Dog Sledding Tours in Tromso

view from the side of five huskies running while attached to a dog sled in tromso

There are a number of great dog sledding tours in Tromso!

Note that the conditions have to be right for dog sledding tours, and they can be canceled due to poor weather and bad snow conditions.

Dogs cannot safely run when the snow is very icy, such as when the daytime gets too warm, melts the snow, and then it forms back into ice at night.

In this case, they would cancel the tour and issue a refund, as it’s not safe for either the dogs or the humans on the tour.

The later you get into the season, the more likely this is to occur.

I went in the first week of February on my most recent trip to the Arctic.

It was the perfect time for dog sledding with lots of fresh powdery snow for them to pull sleds through comfortably. 

View of the snow-covered landscape in Tromso, Norway with a small view of a dog sledding team in the distance

However, someone I know who went to Tromso a few weeks later than me at the end of February experienced issues with ice and her dog sled tour was canceled as a result. 

Similarly, booking a dog sledding tour too early in the winter means there may not be enough snow on the ground. 

I had friends who were in Tromso in December a few years back, and there was no snow on the ground at all in December — even by Christmas!

Keep in mind that climate change means that weather is more and more unpredictable.

Mid-January is likely the safest month to plan for, and it has the added bonus of being a prime time for whale watching in Tromso (as the whale watching season ends near the end of January). 

With that out of the way — here are my picks for the top Tromso husky tours.

Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding AdventureBook Here

Allison Green sitting on a dog sled with a fellow solo traveler, wearing a red hat and blue scarf and a red and blue expedition suit
You take turns being a rider and a driver on this 90 minute Tromso husky tour! Here I am with a fellow solo traveler.

This is the exact Tromso husky tour I did and it was my favorite!

You start by getting oriented to the husky farm and acquainted with what you’ll be doing on your half-day adventure. 

You’ll pick out your warm gear, put everything away that you won’t be taking with you in a locker, and then it’s time to meet the pups!

They give you a chance to cuddle the huskies who aren’t doing the run and get to take a billion husky selfies while they get all the husky sleds geared up and make sure all the safety checks are passed.

Once they’re satisfied that the huskies are ready to run, they give you a quick demo of how the dog sledge works — how to steer, how to brake, how to help your team of huskies up the hill, that sort of thing. 

Then it’s off to the races!… Though not quite, as the head mushers and other mushers interspersed throughout the line of husky teams set a pace, and you follow in a line to ensure everyone, including the dogs, are safe.

dogs at a husky farm with tipi-style structures in the distance at sunset
A beautiful early sunset after finishing dog-sledding

You’ll speed around the Arctic wilderness on the beautiful island of Kvaløya for a time, about 90 minutes, stopping every so often.

They’ll check to ensure all the sleds are still in the correct order and that everyone is safe, as well as to stop and snap some photos of you enjoying your husky sled ride! 

At the end, you’ll eat a tasty meal of a warm codfish stew in the lavvu (a typical Sami tent), followed up by some chocolate cake and hot drinks of your choice — coffee, hot tea, or hot chocolate.

This also included a meet-and-greet with one of the retired sled dogs, who greatly enjoyed all the love and attention.

This tour includes pick up and drop off in the city center, making it one of the easier day trips to arrange in Tromso.

Self-Drive Tromso Dog Sled Tour in KvaløyaBook Here

View of a self-driving dog sled where one person stands on the back of the sled and another sits in front. Dogs in front of the sled. Sun setting in the front horizon.
When you self-drive, you mush while standing on these treads behind the seat!

This is another self-drive tour, and like the first one I listed, it’s also on the island of Kvaløya just a short ride from Tromso.

I didn’t do this exact tour, but it’s with Tromsø Villmarkssenter, who I went with on a nighttime guided dog-sledding tour, so I can vouch for the operator being great!

There are two morning tours daily, so you can make the most of Tromso’s limited winter sunlight hours: one that departs Tromso center at 8:45 AM and one that departs at 9:45 AM.

View of the dog sledding tours going out for a run on the beautiful snow-covered landscape

You’ll meet the pups on the farm before getting all suited up for the ride before learning all the basics of dog-mushing before you go! 

Like the other self-drive tours, two people share a sled, and you have the option to swap between driver and passenger at the halfway mark. 

After the tour, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal of bids, a traditional stew made from reindeer meat that is popular amongst the Sámi people. If you’re not one for reindeer, vegetarian options are available.

A hot beverage and a tasty piece of chocolate cake are the perfect cap on a wonderful day!

This tour is really similar to the first listed, so my choice would really depend on availability, as there’s not any major difference between the two tours.

Self-Drive Tromso Husky Tour in BreivikeidetBook Here

Landscape of Northern Norway with pastel colors in the sky around dawn or twilight, with a team of dogs in front, and other dog sledders on a Tromso husky tour in winter.

Here’s another self-drive Tromso husky tour, where you become a dog musher for the day and lead your own dog-sled with a team of powerful huskies!

The key difference between this tour and the one above is that it’s a little further out from Tromso, about a 50-minute drive to the husky farm, which is in Breivikeidet.

However, they include the transfer, and the views should be really beautiful (as they are everywhere in the Troms region, to be honest!) so that isn’t a huge factor, unless time is a major constraint during your time in Tromso.

There are three daily tours: one leaving at 8:10 AM, one at 10 AM, and one at 11:50 AM. 

These later-in-the-day tours can be a great option if your schedule has you getting into Tromso in the morning and you want to hit the ground running (er, sledding?) or if you simply want to sleep in while on vacation.

Just keep in mind the limited (or sometimes non-existent) daylight hours in Tromso if you book one of the later tours!

After the drive, you’ll arrive at their picturesque camp, which is located in a stunning valley close to the water.

You’ll get suited up in all the necessary gear, meet the dogs, and get an introduction to how to drive the dog sled as well as important safety information.

This tour works similarly to the above, where two people share a sled — one is the driver and the other is the passenger, and you have the option to swap halfway through the husky tour, so everyone can have the chance to be a musher if they want to.

Pastel sky lit up beautifully with dogs in front of you as you sit in the front seat of a dog sled

This also lets you take as many photos as you want while you’re the passenger… something you definitely can’t do while you’re driving!

The tour ends with a hot beverage in the lavvo (a Sámi tent typical of the region) and some cake around an open fire. 

Note that this tour does not include a full meal, unlike the one above. 

Given that this tour and the one above are roughly the same price (the above is actually slightly cheaper), I would opt for the one above unless you specifically want to visit the Breivikeidet area.

That said, this tour still has 4.8 out of 5 stars with over 500 reviews, so clearly it’s still a fan favorite! 

If having a meal isn’t an important factor, such as if you have a lot of food intolerances and prefer to make your own plans around meals, this is another good option for a Tromso husky tour.

Tromso Ice Domes Tour and Dog Sledding Adventure Book Here

View of the Tromso Ice Domes from the exterior where you can admire the igloo-like structure and the gorgeous landscape
The Tromso Ice Domes from the outside!

Want to combine two epic Tromso bucket list items into one excursion? Check out this Ice Domes visit and dog sledding tour combination.

I didn’t do this exact tour, but I did enjoy a fantastic guided visit to the Tromso Ice Domes and can highly recommend it to every traveler!

Personally, I did these tours on different days as I had one whole week in Tromso, but if you were short for time, I’d suggest this combination tour.

This tour picks you up in the city center of Tromso and drives you far into the Tamok Valley, about an hour and a half away from downtown Tromso. 

But the ride into the Tamok Valley is in and of itself an absolutely gorgeous experience, as you pass all sorts of mountains and fjords along the way, including the beautiful Lyngen Alps. 

Once you’re at the gorgeous Ice Domes, the fun really begins! 

You’ll be greeted by a guide and either begin with a dogsledding tour or a guided tour of the Ice Domes.

The order of activities will depend on a number of factors, including how many people are on the tour, weather, and availability.

The tour of the Ice Domes is incredible — a true winter wonderland — and it’s something I’ve done firsthand and loved. 

Allison Green standing in a winder coat in the interior of the Tromso Ice Domes with a beautifully carved ice wall behind her

First, you’ll watch a brief video in the ice cinema that explains exactly how the ice hotel is built (from scratch!) each and every year, using ice from the nearby rivers. 

All in all, it takes about 6 weeks to build, all done as the Polar Night approaches.

Allison Green sitting in bed at a ice hotel
Sitting on one of the beds at the Tromso Ice Domes!

Then you’ll get to tour the hotel in a small group, starting at the ice restaurant and all its incredible sculptures and themes, have a shot of lingonberry juice at the ice bar, and then get to tour the different rooms.

This way, you can see what it would be like to spend the night in an ice hotel (without having to splash out $1,500+ to do so!).

For a full recap of my visit to the Ice Domes, read here, although keep in mind I did not do a husky tour on my trip (I did get to meet the reindeer and feed them some lichen, though!).

hand feeding a reindeer lichen while visiting the tromso ice domes

This tour includes the guided tour of the Ice Domes, a non-alcoholic drink, a light meal, a dog-sledding tour, warm clothing rental, and transfers to and from the ice domes.

This is another self-drive dog sled experience like how I described all the above husky tours, so you’ll man your own dog sled during your tour.

The thing that really sets it apart is the Ice Domes visit; the dog-sledding portion of the tour is similar to the others.

If you want to combine two epic things in one go, it’s the perfect tour!

Camp Tamok Dog Sledding TourBook Here

dog sledders all lined up and ready to go

This self-drive husky tour is similar to the tour above except there’s no Ice Domes visit.

Note that Camp Tamok is located a 1.5-hour drive away from Tromso, so it’s a longer time commitment than many of these other Tromso husky tours.

While I didn’t do this tour, I have taken the transfer to the Camp Tamok area when I visited the Tromso Ice Domes (which this husky camp is associated with), and I can vouch for how incredible the drive is!

However, I do also acknowledge that the fact that you’re spending 3 hours in a bus may not be how you want to spend your dog sledding trip to Tromso. 

You can book it with or without a transfer, and the transfer is only about $20, which is a pretty good deal.

If you plan to drive yourself to Camp Tamok, the dog sledding tour leaves at 10:15 AM; if you plan to take the transfer, the transfer bus leaves at 9 AM.

This is another self-drive dog sled experience like how I described above.

Your guides will explain how to man the sledge and handle your team of dogs and give you all the tips you need to ensure you have a safe and fun sledding experience.

Like the other tours, you will be actively dog-sledding for about an hour and a half, swapping spots halfway through if you want a chance to switch.

And of course, there will be plenty of time for lots of husky cuddles!

The tour includes a tasty meal (a meat stew or a vegetarian option), and warm drinks after the dog-sledding portion of the tour ends.

Guided Husky Sledding with LunchBook Here

Photo Allison took of the huskies running ahead of the sled while on a dog sledding tour in Tromso

All of the above tours fall under the self-drive category, which are the perfect adrenaline-pumping tours for travelers who like a more active adventure.

But what about if you want to relax and let the mushers do what they do best?

Or what if you’re traveling with small kids who aren’t strong enough to be on their own on a sledge? Then a guided husky sled tour is the perfect solution.

I actually did this same tour but in the nighttime (which I’ll talk about more later), and I can highly recommend it.

While I personally prefer the adrenaline that comes with mushing my own dog sled, I can definitely see why this might be a better experience for some travelers.

View while sitting as the huskies run in front of you

For example, most of the self-drive tours require kids to be at least 7 or older, sometimes 16 and up. 

This tour has no age limits, so as long as you feel comfortable bringing your little ones, you are allowed to.

On a guided husky tour, each team of dogs is paired with a professional musher, and you and another passenger get to sit in the sledge, nice and toasty in your warm suit!

After about a 45-60 minute dog sledding tour, complete with views of Balsfjord, it’s time to thank your team of huskies and have lunch.

You’ll head into the lavvo to enjoy bidos (a Sami reindeer stew) or a vegetarian option, and a cup of coffee around the fire, before heading back to Tromso city center on the provided transfer.

Full Day Arctic Dog Sledding ExpeditionBook Here

lines of people in the snow with their dogs on a dog sled tour

Want even more time with your four-legged pals? 

A full-day expedition tour is the perfect way to amp up your dog sledding experience and make it even more memorable.

The dog sledding tour lasts about 6 hours, much of it active, so be prepared for a lot of hard work!

You don’t need to be experienced with mushing, but you should be in good shape and prepared to pay attention to your team of huskies at all times! 

Along the way, you may see different Arctic wildlife like foxes, snowshoe hares, Arctic hares, eagles, moose, and even reindeer!

This full-day mushing tour will really get you in the mindset of how Arctic mushers experience daily life as you explore the beautiful landscapes of Kvaløya with your own team of sled dogs during this full-day mushing expedition tour! 

Close up of a very cute husky who is dog sledding in Tromso

You’re in charge of your team of dogs and for ensuring they stay on task and stay safe. But don’t worry, you won’t be doing it all alone — you’ll have experienced guides with you every step of the way.

I didn’t do this tour, but I did do a different tour with this same company and I can stand behind the organization and team 100%!

They truly care about their animal’s welfare and make sure you have a phenomenal experience on the tour. 

This tour includes the 6-hour tour, transfers, and a delicious meal of reindeer stew (or a veggie option) served in the lavvu, with tea or coffee and a dessert of chocolate cake to reward you after a long day’s work!

Musher-Led Evening Dog Sledding Excursion – Book Here

Allison taking a selfie with a white Alaskan husky sled dog while on a Northern lights and husky tour
Believe it or not, this is the least blurry photo I took that evening. Sorry, not sorry, I was busy doting on these dogs!

This is the exact tour I personally did (afternoon version) while visiting Tromso in winter! 

I wanted a chance of seeing the Northern lights while I dog-sledded, and while unfortunately, the lights didn’t make an appearance, it was still a lot of fun and a great way to spend an evening in Tromso.

With limited daylight hours in Tromso in winter, it’s nice to be able to have activities that are just as enjoyable in the dark night hours as the softly-lit day hours.

So if you are trying to pack quite a few activities into your time in Tromso, this is a great way to maximize your Tromso vacation.

One quick note though: I wouldn’t make this the only Northern lights excursion you do if you have your heart set on it. 

There are so many different ways to see the Northern lights in Tromso, but a tour where you move over a large area and have a guide and driver specifically chasing the lights and the perfect weather conditions is the best way to ensure you see the lights. 

Dogs running on the track in the snow with view of the Northern lights overhead
I didn’t get to see the Northern lights on my tour.. but this is how it might look if I did!

It’s still not 100%, but you have a very good chance on a minibus tour, as they’ll drive far — in my case, we literally went all the way to Finland! — to get the best chance of seeing the Northern lights.

However, if you have another Northern lights expedition booked, and you’re looking for another chance to see the lights and also enjoy a fun activity, I strongly recommend this tour — I absolutely adored my experience, lights or not!

This is a musher-driven guided tour, so you don’t have to worry about driving yourself in the dark.

You are provided with a headlamp and the guides lead you all away around the ‘track’ that the huskies run.

This way, you can see what you’re doing while also having a chance to maybe spot the Northern lights as you get away from the light pollution of the husky camp.

The tour is done with a ratio of 2 guests to every guide, so you can ensure you have a lot of personal attention.

Although I was a solo traveler, I didn’t have to share my sled with anyone, so I got the experience all to myself.

I can’t ensure this will happen to you, if you travel solo you may get paired up with another solo traveler, but since there was an odd number in my group, I got lucky.

This tour also includes a meal in the lavvo — a delicious plate of stockfish stew (similar to bacalao/bacalhau, dried codfish) for dinner, which I can attest firsthand was so, so tasty!

Transfers are included to and from the Radisson Blu hotel and the tour lasts about 4 hours including travel time.

Ice Domes Overnight Stay and Dogsledding TourBook Here

One of the bedrooms at the Tromso Ice Domes with ice carvings and reindeer pelts on the bed
Want to sleep here? Take this overnight Ice Domes combination tour!

If you’re visiting Tromso for a special occasion like a honeymoon, anniversary, or you just like to vacation like a baller, then you’ve got to spend a night hunting for Northern lights at the ice hotel!

Combine your dog sledding adventure with an overnight adventure at the Tromsø Ice Domes.

This gorgeous ice hotel (yes, made of real ice) is located in the Tamok Valley, about an hour and a half away from Tromsø City Centre. 

You can do a day tour of just the hotel or take a dog sledding tour at the nearby Camp Tamok, but the full-on experience is the overnight experience!

This includes a night staying the ice hotel, which also includes a dog-sledding tour the following morning, a Northern lights campout, a snowshoe tour, and all your meals (dinner and breakfast).

On this experience, you can enjoy the entire property of the Tromso Ice Domes — which includes a bar made of ice, an ice cinema, an ice restaurant, and even ice bedrooms!

The ice bar and restaurant in the Tromso Ice Domes with reindeer pelts on seats carved out of ice and tables with placemats on them

The whole property is decorated with themed ice sculptures as well, carved by local artists each year.

The evening part of this overnight tour includes a snowshoe walk in the Tamok Valley.

As you explore deep into the Arctic wilderness, you’ll be accompanied by a local guide.

They can help you identify wildlife tracks and nature in the area, set up the nature camp and fire, grill a dinner over the open fire, and spot and photograph the beautiful Northern lights if they make an appearance!

View of the interior of the Ice Domes

The overnight part of the tour consists of staying in a literal ice bedroom. Don’t worry, though, you won’t be sleeping on an actual block of ice (though the bed frame is made of ice!).

You’ll have an expedition-rated sleeping bag to keep you warm and cozy, and your mattress is covered in reindeer skins to keep you toasty warm. 

The morning is when the real fun begins!

You’ll wake up to a winter wonderland landscape and enjoy a delicious Nordic breakfast to fuel you up.

You’ll then suit up for a self-drive dog-sledding excursion for a few hours, before you head back to Tromso city center and end the tour.

Aurora Camp Overnight and Dog Sledding Morning Tour Book Here

View of the northern lights overhead with bonfire in the foreground

For an epic spin on the dog-sledding experience, you can dothis overnight aurora camp with a husky tour in the morning.

This tour brings you away from the bright city lights of Tromso and into the wilderness around Kvaløya at the Tromso Villmarkssenter, where there’s very little light pollution.

You’ll be suited up in a thermal expedition suit and waterproof boots so that you stay nice and toasty, and then you’ll get a chance to meet the 200 Alaskan huskies who call this farm their home!

Once you’ve met the pups, you’ll have dinner in the hut, where you can try a codfish stew or a vegetarian alternative (from personal experience, I can tell you the stew is delicious!)

After dinner, you can sit around the bonfire and wait to see if the Northern lights make an appearance overhead! 

When you’re ready to sleep, there are lavvu tents all ready for you, where you can sleep nestled up in with sleeping bags and warm reindeer skins.

Dog sledding in the snowy countryside with one dog looking back at the camera and smiling

The next day, you’ll finally go on your dog sledding tour (you can pick between self-driving or having a musher-led guided tour).

After, it’s time for a lunch of bidos (a Sámi traditional reindeer stew) before you say goodbye to the dogs and head back to Tromso city center.

If you want to combine the chance of seeing Northern lights in the countryside and a dog-sledding tour, this is a great choice.

It’s also a budget-friendly way to combine two popular activities into one!

Other Ways to Meet Huskies in Tromso in Winter (Without Dog Sledding)

Snowshoe Hike with Husky VisitBook Here

A cute husky looking directly at the camera at a tromso husky farm where they do dog sledding

Like I detail below, I do believe husky tours are absolutely an ethical way to interact with these gorgeous, hard-working Alaskan huskies.

However, if you’re not into the concept of husky sledding for ethical or personal reasons, there are other ways you can interact with huskies that have nothing to do with sledding!

You can do a snowshoe tour and husky visit with Tromso Villmarkssenter where you get to meet their huskies and embark on a beautiful snowshoe adventure in the Norwegian Arctic wilderness.

Northern Lights Camp with Dinner and Husky Visit – Book Here

Baby huskies playing at the Tromso wilderness center
Meeting baby huskies is part of any husky experience – no dog sledding necessary!

Another option, also at Villmarkssenter (where I did my Northern lights and guided husky sled tour, and can highly recommend!), is the Northern lights and husky experience. 

This is similar to the tour I described above, but instead of doing a sled ride, you just get to meet and interact with the huskies.

It’s also a nice way to have a Northern lights tour and husky experience on a budget, as it’s about half the price of the dog-sledding tours. 

Husky Tours in Tromso in Summer & Fall

Summer Husky Hiking TourBook Here

Autumn visit to a Tromso husky farm with a view of their dog houses

Yes, you can play with huskies in the summer in Tromso, too!

These pups need attention and exercise at all times of the year, so don’t fret if your trip to Tromso falls under the midnight sun or beautiful autumn season.

There are a few different ways you can interact with huskies in the summer and fall. One great option is going on a husky hike tour!

Visit the Villmarkssenter husky farm while taking these energetic pups out for a walk in the beautiful summer Norwegian countryside.

You’ll have views of fjords, mountains, and all sorts of beautiful views in the gorgeous summer light — accompanied by huskies, of course. 

This tour includes a lunch, coffee, and tasty chocolate cake as a dessert — you’ll need to replenish your energy after walking these rambunctious pups! 

Tromso Husky Puppy Training Tour – Book Here

Tromso husky puppy at a husky farm looking around and climbing

More interested in some puppy love?

Do the puppy training tour, where you can interact with and train puppies aged between four weeks to six months! 

You’ll do an hour to hour and a half hike our with the puppies, including some training exercising depending on the ages of the dogs.

This is a great tour for kids in summer – they won’t be disappointed!

Dog Sledding FAQ

  • Is dog sledding cruel to dogs?
A black and white dog greeting Allison at a husky dog sledding farm
The huskies love to run and greet visitors!

I definitely don’t think so!

Of course, there may be some bad apples in the dog sledding world, as with any animal tourism enterprise.

However, I’ve gone dog sledding three times, and every dog sledding tour operator I’ve used has treated the dogs as members of the family and care for them well.

Remember, Alaskan huskies are… well, to borrow the words of Bruce Springsteen, born to run

I’ll answer this question in more detail below on the section on “Is Dog Sledding Ethical”, so be sure to read that section. 

  • When can you dog sled in Norway?

This truly depends on the year!

As climate change means weather patterns are more and more unpredictable, there is a less definitive start and end date of dog sled season in Norway. 

Generally, dog sledding tours open up November 1st and run through the end of April.

However, snow conditions are critically important, and if there is not enough snow or if the snow has melted and turned to ice, dog sledding tours cannot safely run.

  • Where can I go dog sledding in Norway?
Allison on a sled with a team of six dogs ahead, views of the fjords in the distance.
Dog sledding outside of Tromso in February

There are several places you can go dog sledding in Northern Norway, but Tromso is by and far the most popular. 

Keep in mind that places in Southern Norway like Oslo and Bergen do not have enough snow to support dog sledding, so you want to be North — like, North of the Arctic Circle North!

Other places you can go dog sledding in Northern Norway include the Lofoten Islands and Alta

  • How much does it cost to go dog sledding?

Most half-day dog sledding tours in Tromso cost around $200 and full-day tours are closer to $400.

If budget is a concern, there are cheaper ways to visit the husky farms by doing a tour that does not include sledding, which can be as little as $100 USD or so.

  • Why is dog sledding so expensive?
View of the dog sledding homes at the tromso husky farm
All these dogs aren’t going to feed themselves!

These are hard-working dogs who need a lot of food and care… I remember one tour operator telling me that these 45-60 pound dogs eat 10,000 calories worth of food a day!

That’s a lot of food… especially since most Tromso husky tour companies have 100-300 huskies they care for!

Considering a ~150 lb. human needs about 2,000 calories a day, that’s pretty wild!

The money spent on a dog sledding tour also ensures that the dogs have access to regular vet care.

Other expenses for operators include maintaining their licensure to operate, paying the staff to feed and clean and take care of the dogs, as well as paying the staff a living wage.

Remember that the cost of living in Norway is high and salaries are high as well.

While a dog sledding tour may seem expensive, remember that you are paying for an ethical experience in multiple ways.

Your tour cost goes to not only well-fed, well-kept dogs, but also well-paid people and healthy families!

  • Is dog sledding difficult?
View of a mountain in front of the dogs running on a dog sledding tour in norway

If you’re self-driving… definitely, in the sense that it’s a real workout!

However, it is not hard to learn how to operate the sledge, so you can absolutely get acquainted with the basics of dog sledding and do it safely, even in a short 90-minute tour.

That said, there are also musher-driven dog sled tours which are a lot less difficult on the body… just sit and enjoy!

These are the perfect dog sledding tours for kids, older adults, people with injuries or disabilities, or people who just want a more relaxing experience.

Is Tromso Dog Sledding Ethical?

Allison taking a selfie with a very happy looking black dog with a white muzzle and open mouth
Tell me this isn’t a happy face!

The ethics of dog sledding is understandably a concern, and it was a subject I researched in depth before first deciding to do a dog sledding tour in Abisko in 2016. 

Before I did another two dog sledding tours on my 2020 trip to Tromso, I dove deep into the research again to ensure that I was still operating with good information and that my initial assessment that dog sledding can be ethical with the right company still stands.

My opinion is this: dog sledding can be ethical or unethical depending entirely on the treatment of the animals.

I would compare it to horseback riding, but I think the dogs enjoy running and sledding more than horses enjoy people riding on them! 

At the two Tromso tour companies I visited as well as the one in Abisko, I felt the dog sledding companies truly had their dogs’ health and happiness at the heart of everything they did.

My conclusion was that these are ethically run husky sledding tours and that I felt comfortable with everything I saw.

The reality of these tours is that these dogs are, quite simply, born to do this.

These are Alaskan huskies who have generations upon generations of running and pulling sleds in their bloodlines. 

It is, quite simply, what they were born and bred to do, and they would go insane as pets kept in an apartment.

They need to run for several hours a day to let off all their energy, and you can see just how much they love to run when they start howling as a team as they get suited up and ready to pull the sleds.

A cute blue-eyed Alaskan husky licking herself
Some dogs live in duos with their own ‘suite’, others have their own cage with a crate.

One thing I will say, though, is that the dogs are kept chained up when not running. This is due to Norwegian laws.

This can be a little off-putting at first, so I asked about this. I learned that the chaining is done to prevent fights from breaking out between the dogs, which can happen as dogs are pack animals and form different little “cliques.” 

This also helps ensure no unwanted puppy accidents happen and that the husky farms only breed exactly as many puppies as they can care for and take care of.

I should note that the husky babies are bred in small numbers, usually just one or two litters at a time so as not to be overwhelmed by puppies.

The husky mom gets to live in a giant suite with all her puppies, kept away from the other dogs. 

All the dogs have their own little homes and live next to a dog they are friendly with so they can socialize.

Sometimes, if a particular dog has trouble living and sharing a close space with other dogs, it will have its own cage, with a box to keep warm and snuggle in, as well.

Their boxes are filled with straw, cleaned multiple times daily, and provide plenty of space for the dog (I saw two particularly friendly pups spooning and sharing a box instead of enjoying their own rooms!).

two huskies cuddled up in the same bed, with the names sniff and snork
Some sweet doggie BFFs

About the temperatures: huskies are happy out in the cold and can withstand temperatures as low as -60° F / -50° C.

It rarely gets below -20° F / -6° C in Tromso, and if it does, they have their dog houses with plenty of warm insulating straw for them to keep warm in.

The dogs get exercise daily with one day of rest per week.

With so many different husky tours running at all hours of the day, every dog gets a chance to run daily, and they never run more than 50 miles in a week, and never if they are sick or injured.

Compare this to the Iditarod, where dogs sometimes run 100 miles in a single day.

The dogs are checked frequently by vets and the kennels are inspected by Norwegian government inspectors to ensure the dogs are enjoying high-quality care.

a retired sled dog standing on a bench in a lavvu tipi style structure
Visiting with a retired sled dog!

But my favorite thing was seeing that the retired dogs get to live a good life, too.

On my self-drive Tromso husky tour with Arctic Adventures, they brought out a retired sled dog at the end to meet and greet all of us while we enjoyed our dessert.

They explained how every dog is part of the family, and that often those who work at the husky farm end up adopting the retirees!

Some sometimes, the retirees end up enjoying a comfortable retirement as a pet, getting loved on by visitors to the farm!

What to Wear When Dog Sledding in Tromso

Allison posing with a friendly husky after a dog sledding tour in Tromso
All smiles after finishing our dog sledding tour!

On your dog-sledding tour, they will provide you with a warm suit and boots to ensure that you don’t get too cold on your tour. 

I strongly suggest you wear what they offer you, as you’ll be so nice and toasty!

This is expedition-strength gear and will likely be warmer but more breathable than whatever you brought.

Remember, you’re above the Arctic Circle, and it gets cold! Make sure that you come equipped with thermal base layers, waterproof gloves, and a hat that tightly covers your ears.

Here’s what you should bring:

  • Winter hat
  • Gloves
  • Scarf
  • Base layers
  • Wool socks
  • Your everyday winter clothing (sweaters & jeans/pants)

Where to Stay in Tromso

view from the top of tromso's cable car
The view of Tromso from the cable car

Here are my 3 top picks in Tromso city center.

Budget

The best budget option in Tromso is  Smarthotel Tromso.

It’s right in the heart of central Tromso and has 24-hour reception, comfortable beds, a work desk, and some snacks available in the lobby.

Check rates and availability here

Mid-Range

If you want to stay in a chic boutique hotel that’s not overly fancy, Thon Hotel Polar is a fabulous choice.

With Arctic themed art and Nordic decor, it’s a cute place to stay.

Breakfast is included and there is also a restaurant on-site should you want to dine in.

Check rates and availability here

Luxury

A great luxury option is the Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora.

It’s harborfront and has an incredible rooftop jacuzzi where you can try to spot the Northern lights!

Rooms are luxurious and modern with updated bathrooms.

Extras include a gym, free afternoon coffee with waffles, and a light evening meal as part of your stay.

Check rates and availability here

DON’T FORGET ABOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE!

When planning any trip, especially a winter trip, be sure not to forget about travel insurance!

I use SafetyWing and its Nomad Insurance to insure all of my trips for its affordable rates and comprehensive coverage for all my travel needs.

For a trip as expensive as traveling to Norway, with weather as unpredictable as the Arctic, it’s especially important for me to have coverage.

It provides both travel insurance (coverage for trip delays, cancellations, interruptions — the likelihood of which increases in winter) and travel medical insurance (coverage for things like accidents, illnesses including Covid, etc. — also more likely in winter!).

Coverage is really affordable — for me, it costs roughly $11 USD for a week of coverage outside of the U.S., with a policy max of $250,000 after a deductible of $250. Not bad!

Check SafetyWing for a quote here!

The 4 Best Tromso Whale Watching Tours, Ranked (& Key Things to Know!)

tale of a whale diving in norway

In Tromso, you’ll see the flashing aurora in brilliant hues of lime and fuchsia swirling overhead at night.

By day, you can visit glistening blue ice hotels by day, dog sled through frozen landscapes with fjords in the background, or meet Sami reindeer herders.

I’m ready to re-book another ticket to Tromsø just writing that.

Put simply, Tromsø in winter is one of the most magical destinations I can think of.

winter landscape of the city of tromso as seen at night when the lights in the city start to twinkle on and change the city into its night scene

One of the main people flock to Tromsø in winter is to have a chance to go whale watching in one of the best destinations in the world to see two of the most magical whales in their natural habitats: orcas and humpback whales.

However, there are a lot of things that people don’t know about whale watching in Tromsø, and this post is dedicated to demystifying that, so you know exactly what to expect on your Tromsø whale watching tour.

I’ve gone whale watching in nearly a dozen countries around the world, but whale watching in Tromsø is quite different, so even if you’ve gone whale watching before, you’ll want to read this post!

The Best Whale Watching Tours in Tromsø

TOP RECOMMENDATION: Whale Watching From Skjervoy in a RIB Boat

orcas in low light in skjervoy with rib boats in background

Why is this my top recommendation? It’s perfect for people prone to seasickness, because you skip the 3-hour each-way boat ride on the rough open seas.

Instead, this Skjervoy RIB boat tour includes a 3.5-hour bus transfer from Tromso to Skjervoy, so you spend less time on the choppy ocean. Much more comfortable than a 3-hour rough boat ride!

Once you arrive in the Kvaenangen Fjord feeding grounds near Skjervoy, the waters are significantly less choppy, though you’ll probably still want to take some Dramamine so you can focus on the wonderful whale watching!

It also gives you more time out with the whales: about 2.5 hours of whale watching as opposed to 1-1.5 hours that most other tours allow.

Best of all, you get to travel in a RIB boat (rigid inflatable boat) that can carry no more than twelve people. This makes it one of the most ethical tour options.

This is the least intrusive way to see whales in their natural habitat, and you’ll also enjoy the fact that the small boat means that you’ll get better views of the whales without having to fight or jostle for a better view the way you might on a big boat.

Admittedly, this is a more expensive tour due to the bus transfer and the very small boat size, but I think it’s well-worth it (especially if you are prone to seasickness like I am).

Another benefit of this tour that I think offsets the cost is that you get to enjoy a 2.5-hour whale watching excursion once you arrive at Skjervoy.

Normally, the other cruises say they’re 7 hours, but that really only allows for one hour of actual whale watching once you arrive at the Skjervoy area.

This small group tour actually allows for several hours of whale watching, giving you optimal conditions to get the perfect view or the perfect photo!

The tour also includes lunch of sandwiches and hot drinks after the whale-watching cruise, before you return to Tromso.

Book your RIB boat excursion to Skjervoy here!

BEST-RATED BUDGET CHOICE: All-Inclusive Whale Watching & Birding Cruise

This all-inclusive 8-hour whale safari tour is my top budget-friendly recommendation from Tromso.

You’ll make your way to Skjervoy in a comfortable boat, led by an expert guide who can identify sea life as you make the long trek to Skjervoy — about 3 hours out on the open sea.

On the way through the Tromso fjord, you’ll have the chance to see sea eagles, guillimots, harbor porpoises, eider ducks, cormorants, and of course — once you get out to Skjervoy, humpback whales and killer whales!

You’ll also learn about why this part of Northern Norway is a particular haven for these whale species, who thrive on the herring and plankton-rich waters.

There’s a comfortable indoor area with heat, as well as an outdoor deck where you can seat while you search for whales and other Arctic wildlife.

You’ll be treated to snacks, hot beverages like tea or coffee, and you’ll have access to a thermal suit so you can whale watch comfortably, no matter what the weather!

Check availability and book your all-inclusive whale safari tour here!

ECO BUDGET CHOICE: Whale Watching Tour by Hybrid Electric Catamaran

orca in pale light with birds around

This budget-friendly whale watching trip option uses a hybrid electric engine in order to be more eco-friendly when approaching the whales.

The silent hybrid engine means that this Tromso whale watching tour will allow you to get up close and personal to these wild animals in a way that does not disturb them while you’re sightseeing.

As a bonus, the quietness of the engine makes these marine mammals more likely to come up closer to the boat so you can see them easier!

There are indoor lounges with hot beverages you can enjoy while you take the 3 hour boat trip out to Skjervoy.

Book your electric catamaran whale watching excursion with Brim Explorer here!

ANOTHER BUDGET CHOICE: Fjord Cruise & Whale Safari

orca in the water near tromso fjord in skjervoy

There’s no denying that Tromso is a pricy place to visit, and if you’re on a budget, you’ll probably want to cut expenses, so if you still really want to do a whale watching tour, this is the lowest-priced option.

It isn’t, however, my favorite, and I’ll explain why.

This catamaran cruise brings you from Tromsø city center through the fjord, passing by beautiful Arctic landscapes along the way.

Your guides will show you other fjord wildlife — you may get to see harbor porpoises or perhaps even the elusive and gorgeous sea eagle!

There are indoor and outdoor viewing decks, so if you get cold, you can stay inside and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. There is also a kiosk on the boat where you can grab something to eat if you’re hungry.

You’ll also be given a thermal suit to wear on the boat so don’t worry about getting too cold — you’ll be kept nice and toasty!

The boat ride to Skjervoy takes about 2.5-3 hours each way. Once you arrive at Skjervoy, you’ll have about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on weather conditions, to watch the whales feed and interact in the wild.

However, this cruise can sometimes be done on a boat that can fit 144 passengers which is why I don’t really recommend it.

Sometimes they’ll go on smaller boats, but there’s a statistically pretty high chance you’ll end up on a huge boat, and that’s usually not that fun.

Another gripe some past guests had is that they only really had about 15-30 minutes of whale watching once they arrived in Skjervoy after such a long journey, so it felt like a bit of a let down when it came to the whale watching experience side of things.

Book your whale watching catamaran cruise here!

13 Things to Know Before Whale Watching in Tromsø

There is a very limited window for whale watching.

A whale tail going underwater with the background being snow fjord landscape

Whale watching season in Tromso only runs from November through January.

Come any earlier than November and the tours likely won’t start yet — come any later than January and the whales will have likely left.

The period from mid-November to mid-January is the most certain for whale watching sightings, but you will also be dealing with the least amount of light at this time.

You will have limited light hours for whale watching.

Pastel lighting in Tromso with two orcas coming for air above the water

Unfortunately, November to January is also the period with the shortest hours of true daylight in Northern Norway, including a long stretch of “polar night” where the sun does not rise above the horizon in the Arctic Circle.

Technically, polar night lasts between November 27 and January 15, but because of the mountains surrounding Tromso you usually won’t see the sun rise between November 21 to January 21 — two whole months without a proper sunrise!

However, while you won’t experience a true sunrise or sunset, you will get more of the “twilight hours” that offer beautiful pastel light. (You can check the actual sunrise/sunset and twilight hours time here)

Expect about 5-6 hours of ‘civil twilight’ (between roughly 9 AM and 3 PM) where you can see fairly easily, but there is no sun in the sky: think of the light quality just before sunrise or just after sunset, and that’s what you’ll see.

So don’t expect pitch blackness — you will absolutely be able to experience whale sightings without any artificial light like lanterns or headlamps!

Think pretty pinkish-purple pastel skies with whales feeding in the distance — pretty magical, right?

Research and prepare your camera for low-light photography.

Allison's hand in a puffy jacket, while holding onto a camera that is very covered in ice crystals
The cold can wear out your camera batteries when in the Arctic, so bring extra!

You will want to get comfortable with whatever camera you are using before you leave for Tromso, especially photographing in low light settings.

Photographing wildlife can be hard in lower-light settings because you need a fast shutter speed to capture their movement. I suggest a minimum shutter speed of 1/500, but 1/1000 is even better if possible.

From there, you’ll need to balance aperture and ISO. I recommend having the highest aperture possible on your camera (the lowest f number), and then picking the lowest possible ISO that will also allow you still have enough light to capture the whales.

If you don’t want to fiddle too much with manual settings, you can set your camera on shutter priority mode (usually designated with an S on your camera) and that will adjust the settings once you set the shutter speed.

I also suggest setting up autofocus, using a fast memory card, and enabling a ‘burst’ mode for snapping photos.

Finally, be sure to shoot in RAW because you’ll be able to pull out more detail in post-processing, even if your photos look a little dark initially.

You’ll also want to bring extra camera batteries because cold weather will definitely zap your batteries faster than expected!

The boat ride is really long.

A fishing boat surrounded by whales in Tromso area, Norway

The whales no longer feed in the waters directly near Tromso. Instead, they feed near the island of Skjervoy further out in the Atlantic.

This means that a whale watching tour from Tromso will actually need to go all the way out to Skjervoy, which takes 3 hours, before even beginning to have a hope of whale watching!

You may, of course, get to see other wildlife along the way, but it is a long boat ride. Bring some entertainment to keep you busy!

I suggest audiobooks or podcasts, or a deck of cards to play with a companion.

Once you arrive at the feeding area, you’ll usually have 1-1.5 hours of actual whale watching before making the return 3 hour voyage. That means spending 7-8 hours out at sea!

There are options where you can take a bus to Skjervoy and then take a RIB boat to get up close and personal with the whales. This is more expensive, but may be a better option if you are worried about seasickness from too much boat time.

The waters can be rough!

A whale going under the water surface in the waters outside of Tromso, Norway, while on a Tromso whale watching tour

Remember — you’ll be on the open ocean as you make your way towards Skjervoy!

The water in the fjord of Tromso is pretty calm, but once you leave the fjord, it can get really rough.

Many people report feeling seasick during their Tromso whale watching tour, so know that that’s a strong possibility.

I recommend taking the strongest Dramamine you can handle while still staying awake (although you can definitely take a nap while you are out on your way to Skjervoy).

There are also natural remedies like ginger chews and seasickness bands, if your seasickness is on the milder end.

And again, a combination boat and bus tour may be more appropriate if you are very prone to seasickness.

Wear warm clothes for your tour!

Allison Green smiling in a selfie on a wildlife cruise of Tromso

While most of the tours will provide you a thermal suit that will keep you nice and toasty warm on your tour, I also suggest dressing appropriately in warm base layers.

I suggest merino wool base layers since they are breathable yet heat-retaining as well as odor-resistant… meaning you can wear the same base layers multiple times on your trip. This streamlines both what you need to pack and buy, as well as what you need to wash!

You’ll also want wool socks and water-resistant snow boots, mittens (they are warmer than gloves!), a tight-fitting hat that warms your ears, and a scarf to keep your neck warm.

Over all that, I suggest a pair of waterproof pants since the sea spray may be quite strong if there are any stormy weather or large waves, and you will be uncomfortable if you get wet!

Finally, top it all off with a water-resistant hooded parka like this one, which I loved for my trip to Norway.

The whales can be unpredictable.

A whale tail going down below the water's surface with an orange-y dawn sky.

Even if you are traveling in peak whale season, remember that whales are wild creatures and are not there for your entertainment.

You are lucky to get to see them, and it is not a guarantee, like everything in nature!

There is a small chance that you might not get to see whales on your whale watching safari.

You might want to ask your whale watching tour company if they offer free rebooking if you don’t get to see whales on your outing — some companies do offer this.

Opt for a smaller boat where possible.

A small inflatable RIB boat with the Skjervoy landscape all around

The smaller the boat tour, the more enjoyable your tour will be. RIB boat excursions are the best because these tours are limited to twelve people, and everyone will be guaranteed a great view.

There are some tours, such as the final one on my list (which I don’t really recommend unless it’s the only available option), that fit nearly 150 people on their boats.

These tours can be stressful because people will all be trying to get the best view — imagine 150 people all wanting to be on the same side of one boat trying to get photos… not fun.

The smaller your boat tour, the easier it will be for you to see whales and get the photos you want to make memories of a lifetime!

Some boat tours are more ethical than others.

A few orcas seen surfacing above the water with dark light of early morning

On a similar token to above, these smaller boat tours are also more ethical.

Plus, loud engines (and loud crowds!) can spook the whales.

RIB boats use very quiet engines and there are also tours that use silent hybrid engines to minimize the disturbance of whales while they are feeding.

There are regulations about whale watching in Tromsø.

Landscape of the Northern Norway sea side with a small boat out on the water

Visit Tromso has created its own whale watching guidelines for tour operators to follow, taking advice from AECO and the Norwegian Polar Institute.

These guidelines were approved by external bodies, such as OceanCare, the Tethys Research Institute, and WDC – Whale and Dolphin Conservation.

First, a boat should approach slowly as soon as the boat operator is within 300 meters of whales.

Once you are 100 meters away, the boat should go at a minimal speed, and then idle completely when 50 meters away.

Boats should also move parallel to the whales, as opposed to behind, where whales may feel chased.

Boats should also avoid approaching from the front, since whales may feel intercepted and have to change direction or interrupt their natural feeding patterns.

Book your tours early!

sunrise in the harbor in tromso of lots of small sailboats

The smaller-group boat tours tend to book up pretty early since the capacity is limited and Tromso is such a popular winter destination.

Book early — if you book with a company like Get Your Guide (who I used to book all my Tromso activities), you can have free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

That way, you are not risking any lost money by booking ahead of time, even if your travel plans aren’t fully finalized yet.

Booking directly with companies will often get you a less flexible cancelation policy where you may only receive a credit or voucher instead of a full refund, so I use third-party agents for extra cancelation protection.

Don’t get your hopes up about seeing breeching whales.

Whale tail going down into the waters while on a Tromso whale watching tour in the waters around the Skjervoy island.

Every post uses the same stock photos of whales for a reason… because a lot of whale watching is frankly, slightly disappointing in terms of seeing the full size of the whale!

I’ve gone whale watching more times than I can actually count and I’ve never yet seen a whale breech.

It’s really not as common as the photos make it seem!

You may get to see whales jumping a bit to feed, which would be amazing to see as well!

But again, you may just get to see their tails, spouts, and backs. And that is amazing too!

Your whale watching Tromso tour may get canceled due to bad weather.

Red polar museum building with snow falling in front of it

Remember, this is the Arctic Circle — weather is unpredictable and winter storms can blow in and be rather severe!

If it is too dangerous to go out, your tour will be canceled and you will be refunded or offered a rebooking.

You may want to book your whale watching near the start of your trip so that you can rebook if necessary if it gets canceled due to weather.

There are other alternatives if the whales leave early or if your tour is canceled.

View from the dog sled over the beautiful landscapes of norway in winter

The whales may leave earlier than anticipated, but don’t worry — there are lots of other wonderful things to do in Tromso if the whales leave early!

The most similar experience is this popular fjord wildlife cruise, which takes 5 hours to explore the waters around the Tromso fjord and look for sea life. I did this tour and I loved it!

We got to see harbor porpoises, a sea eagle, and all sorts of amazing Arctic sea bird life I’ve never seen anywhere else.

You can also go dog sledding or reindeer sledding, or do other adventure activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, etc., or Northern lights tours!

FAQ about Whale Watching in Tromsø

Are there whales in Tromsø?

whale tale in tromso area

There used to be whales feeding in the Tromsø fjord throughout the winter — but this is no longer the case.

However, due to either overfishing, climate change, or a combination of the two, that has changed. Herring are the main food source of the whales in Norway, and now these schools of herrings are located much further out, around Skjervøy.

Skjervøy is an island located 150 kilometers from Tromsø (93 miles). So what does this mean for you as a traveler? Well, unfortunately, that means far longer boat rides just to be able to see the whales.

Most whale watching tours I’ve done, such as a humpback whale watching tour in Oahu, I was able to see the whales just a short distance from the departure point, and the whale watching tour lasted about 2 hours.

However, in Tromsø, whale watching tours take about a minimum of 7-8 hours. Most of this time is just getting out to Skjervøy.

Is Tromsø good for whale watching?

Despite the whales being quite far from Tromsø itself, that doesn’t mean you should cross Tromsø off your list!

If you want to see orcas (aka killer whales) in their natural habitat, this is the best place to do so! There are very few places that you can see orcas in the wild so reliably, so don’t miss the opportunity.

What are the most common whales in Tromsø?

The two most common whales you’ll see on a whale safari in Tromsø are humpback whales and orca whales (killer whales).

These two species really gravitate to the waters around Skjervøy to fill up on herring before they make their migration south to warmer waters.

You may also get to see harbor porpoises or fin whales!

What time of year can you see whales in Norway?

view from the top of tromso's cable car

The whale watching season in Norway is rather short: from November to January. By the first week of February, the whale watching season is usually over, and boat tours will cease operating.

That said — this can fluctuate depending on other factors, such as the presence of the herring in the waters and the temperature of the water, so these are guidelines as opposed to hard-and-fast rules.

Whale Watching in Tromso in November

The whales tend to arrive in the fjords outside of Skjervoy around the end of October, so November is typically a safe month for whale watching. The seas may also be a little less rough at this time.

However, if whale watching is very important to you, you may want to come a little later in the month of November to make sure you don’t arrive earlier than the whales!

Whale Watching in Tromso in December

The whales are well settled in by December, and December is one of the best times to see orcas and humpback whales near Tromso.

You are almost guaranteed a whale sighting if you whale watch in December!

Whale Watching in Tromso in January

January is typically a pretty safe month for whale watching as well, although by the end of the month, the whale numbers may start to dwindle and you may not have as much luck.

For the best luck seeing whales in January in Tromso, I would aim more towards the beginning or middle of the month.

Whale Watching in Tromso in February

While technically whale watching season goes into the first week of February, it is ending earlier and earlier each year.

I would not recommend banking on seeing whales in Tromso in February, even in the first week.

What is the best month to visit Tromso?

Allison Green sitting in bed at a ice hotel
Sitting on one of the beds at the Tromso Ice Domes, a great Northern lights spotting destination!

Polar night (when the sun does not rise above the horizon) overlaps with most of whale watching season.

If you want a chance to see the sun and also whales, I would suggest the period around the first two weeks of November.

However, you run the risk of there not being a lot of snow accumulation by this point, and so other activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, etc. may not be possible, and the Tromso Ice Dome won’t be ready yet.

Typically, dog sledding season is November through April, but I’ve seen from friends who live in Tromso that some years, there has not been significant snow fall until December… meaning that snow-reliant activities have had to be canceled.

Similarly, the Tromso Ice Domes aren’t constructed until around December 10 each year.

For the best chance of being able to do as many winter activities as possible, mid-January is the best time of year to visit.

How close can you get to whales in Tromsø?

whales in tromso

Boats are not supposed to get any closer than 50 meters (about 160 feet) to the whales… but the whales may have other ideas!

Whales may approach boats since they are curious creatures, but boats should absolutely not try to get closer to the whales.

How long do whale watching boat tours take in Tromsø?

Allison in a thermal suit in a catamaran in the dark

Allocate a baseline of 7-8 hours for any proper whale watching tour. Anything shorter than that will not get you out to Skjervoy where you need to be to see humpback whales and orcas.

That means it’ll likely be dark on the way there and back, but you’ll have some light hours in between!

The trip to Skjervoy takes about 2.5 hours each way, leaving you about 1 to 1.5 hours to watch the whales before returning back to Tromso.

If you take a bus tour combined with a RIB boat tour (what I recommend), that is actually more like a 12-hour day because the bus ride to Skjervoy is about 3.5 hours each way.

There’s also an overnight option to do a bus tour to Skjervoy, RIB boat tour, and then spend the night in a crystal lavvo under the aurora sky!

What are the best whale watching tours in Tromsø?

Basically, the smaller the boat, the better it is both for your own enjoyment of the experience and for minimal disruption on the feeding behaviors of the whales.

Additionally, you’ll want to decide if you want to take a bus to Skjervoy and then a RIB boat, or if you want to take a boat cruise the entire way.

There are benefits and drawbacks. For the former, it’s a lot less prone to seasickness and you’ll get to enjoy whale watching far more up-close and personal. However, it’s more expensive because it’s a smaller group.

For the latter, a boat cruise can be really rough on sensitive stomachs and many people experience seasickness out on on the open seas towards the island of Skjervoy.

However, you will also get the chance to see the Tromso fjord from the water and also get to enjoy some birding and sightseeing.

Where to Stay in Tromso

Colorful houses in Tromso Norway with snow all over the place

Accommodation will be one of the pricier parts of your trip to Tromso, so be sure to budget accordingly.

Expect to spend, even on the budget end of things, approximately $150 USD per night at a minimum, and around $300 per night for upper-tier accommodations.

Budget

Hands down, the best budget option in Tromso is Smarthotel Tromso.

It’s central and has 24 hour reception, comfortable beds, a work desk, some food available in the lobby.

 Check availability and prices here

Mid-Range

If you want to stay in a chic boutique hotel that’s not overly fancy, Thon Hotel Polar is a fabulous choice.

Breakfast is included and there is also a restaurant on-site should you want to dine in, and the location couldn’t be better.

 Check availability and prices here

Luxury

One of the nicest hotels in Tromso is the Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora for its harborfront location and its incredible rooftop jacuzzi.

Rooms are luxurious and modern with updated bathrooms, and the facilities include a gym, free afternoon coffee with waffles, and a light evening meal as part of your stay.

Check rates and reviews here

DON’T FORGET ABOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE!

When planning any trip, especially a winter trip, be sure not to forget about travel insurance!

I use SafetyWing and its Nomad Insurance to insure all of my trips for its affordable rates and comprehensive coverage for all my travel needs.

For a trip as expensive as traveling to Norway, and as unpredictable as traveling to the Arctic, it’s especially important to me that I have coverage!

SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance provides both travel insurance (coverage for trip delays, cancellations, interruptions — the likelihood of which increases in winter) and travel medical insurance (coverage for things like accidents, illnesses including Covid, etc. — also more likely in winter!).

Coverage is really affordable — for me, it costs roughly $11 USD for a week of coverage outside of the U.S., with a policy max of $250,000 after a deductible of $250. Not bad!

Check SafetyWing for a quote here!