Tromsø: Sommaroy Fjord Tour with Lunch Option & Midnight Sun

Introducing the Tromsø Sommarøy Fjord Tour: A Balanced Look at Northern Norway’s Natural Beauty

If you’re visiting Tromsø and eager to explore the wild, breathtaking landscapes that define northern Norway, the Sommarøy Fjord Tour offers a compact yet immersive outing. Covering scenic drives, island stops, and spectacular viewpoints, this trip promises a taste of the region’s raw beauty. What makes it particularly appealing is the chance to see the midnight sun during summer evening departures — a truly unique experience— and the option to upgrade with a hearty, local lunch.

Two things I particularly like about this tour are the careful planning of stops that maximize scenic and photo moments, and the knowledgeable, friendly guides like Tomas and Mirko, who enrich your understanding of the area’s wildlife, culture, and landscapes. The tour’s small group size (generally 8 to 15 people) creates a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of personal attention.

One potential drawback is the weather dependency—clouds, snow, or haze can obscure views, especially during the summer midnight sun experience. However, the unpredictable micro-climates often produce stunning, unexpected sights, even in poor weather. Plus, many reviewers emphasize that even when views are dimmed by clouds, the overall value and memorable scenery remain intact.

Key points / Takeaways

• Scenic drives and viewpoints highlight Norway’s rugged coastlines and mountains.
• Guides like Tomas and Mirko are praised for their friendliness, humor, and wealth of local knowledge.
• The midnight sun can be seen during summer evenings, but it’s not guaranteed due to weather variability.
• The small group size makes for a personalized experience and easy photo opportunities.
• Meals are available as an upgrade, with tasty local soups and bread that add warmth to the day.
• The itinerary balances driving, sightseeing, and relaxing stops, making it suitable for a range of travelers.

Exploring Tromsø’s Fjord and Island Scene

The tour kicks off at a convenient meeting point inside the “Northern Shots” shop, where friendly staff and guides like Marek set a welcoming tone. From there, the journey begins with a drive that lasts about 20 minutes, giving you a gentle introduction to the landscape and what’s ahead. The first viewpoint stop provides a quick but stunning glimpse of the coast, perfect for snapping your first photos.

As the tour progresses, you’ll visit several viewpoints, each offering a different perspective on Norway’s rugged coastlines and fjords. One reviewer, Lesley, describes being “delighted with the tour through mountainous valleys, fjords, and islands,” noting how the weather gradually improved, culminating in a sun-drenched lunch on the island of Sommarøy. These stops are well-timed to offer just enough time to take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Island of Sommarøy: A Highlight

Of course, the highlight for many is the visit to Sommarøy — a charming island with a laid-back vibe and stunning vistas. Several reviewers, including Stefan and Dario, praise the opportunity to take amazing photos and enjoy the tranquility of the place. One guide, Mirko, even took time to give personal photo tips, which many guests appreciated. This is an excellent spot for gentle walks, panoramic photos, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

Scenic Drive to Coastal Viewpoints

The route takes you along coastal viewpoints, where the landscape opens up dramatically. The drive is especially rewarding during the summer months when the midnight sun paints the sky in shades of pink and orange between 9 pm and 11 pm. While weather can sometimes hide the sun, the chance to witness the night-sun adds a magical touch to your evening.

Lunch and Refreshments

For those who opt for the meal upgrade, a local warm lunch—often featuring tasty soup and bread—is served at a scenic spot, making it more than just a quick bite. Several reviews highlight how well the food complements the day’s adventure, providing warmth and energy. Since meals can’t be ordered on-site without delaying the tour, it’s smart to choose this option at check-in if you’re hungry.

Detailed Day-by-Day Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour begins at the Booking Point, a friendly hub where you’ll check in and meet your guide. From there, the journey is broken into manageable segments: a brief 20-minute bus ride introduces you to the landscape, followed by stops at coastal and mountain viewpoints for about 10 minutes each. These are perfectly timed for quick photos and soaking in the scenery.

The more substantial part of the day is a 45-minute drive to a key sightseeing area. During this stretch, guides like Marek or Mirko share stories about the region’s wildlife, history, and culture, often making the experience feel like a casual chat rather than a rigid tour. One guest, Sarah, emphasizes that her guide was “friendly, well-informed, and humorous,” which kept everyone engaged despite the sometimes cloudy weather.

The final stop is back on Sommarøy — a half-hour for relaxed exploration, photos, or a light walk. The tour wraps up with a return drive and drop-off at the original meeting point, closing a well-rounded 5-hour experience.

The Transport and Group Size

The transportation is comfortable, with groups typically limited to 8-15 people in a minibus, creating an intimate atmosphere. During high season, larger groups may travel in a coach with onboard toilets, but the overall experience remains relaxed and personal. The guides are fluent in English, ensuring clear communication.

Why Small Groups Matter

Smaller groups mean more opportunities for photos, personalized explanations, and the chance to ask questions. Several reviews mention guides like Tomas, Mirko, Marek, and Pietro by name, praising their enthusiasm and knowledge. Many comments reflect how guides went beyond the usual to give personal touches — like taking group photos or offering tips on best angles.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers looking for a balanced mix of scenic beauty, informative commentary, and authentic local experiences. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, flexible options (like adding a warm lunch), and the thrill of potentially witnessing the midnight sun. It’s less ideal if you’re after a deep dive into natural history—though guides do share plenty of facts, some guests wished for more natural history details.

Price and Practical Tips: Getting Good Value

While the tour’s base price covers transportation and guiding, the lunch upgrade (~250kr) adds a significant value, transforming the experience from a scenic drive into a true taste of local cuisine. Considering the number of stops, the quality of guides, and the included photos, many guests find it excellent value for money.

To maximize your enjoyment, bring a fully charged camera or phone, as guides often take photos of guests in the stunning landscapes—something many reviewers appreciated. Also, be prepared for variable weather; even in summer, a raincoat or warm layer is wise.

The Weather and Views: A Realistic Expectation

The weather can sometimes obscure the views, especially during the midnight sun experience in late May to mid-July. However, many reviews note that even cloudy or snowy days offer their own kind of magic. Lesley mentions that the weather “was very grey and snowy at the beginning,” but still found the tour rewarding. Flexibility and patience are your best allies in these conditions.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy light hiking, scenic drives, and learning from guides who are passionate about their region, this tour is an excellent choice. It balances the need for comfort with authentic immersion—without overwhelming you with too many stops or overly long drives. The possibility of seeing the midnight sun makes it particularly memorable in summer.

This experience is especially suitable for those who want a personalized, small-group adventure that showcases Norway’s stunning coastlines, islands, and fjords. It’s a good pick for photographers, nature lovers, and curious travelers eager to understand the region beyond just the scenery.

FAQs About the Tromsø Sommarøy Fjord Tour

Is the tour suitable during rainy or snowy days?
Yes, the tour may run in rainy or snowy weather, as micro-climates often produce stunning, atmospheric views despite less-than-ideal weather.

Can I see the midnight sun on this tour?
You might, during evening departures from late May to mid-July, between 9 pm and 11 pm, but it’s not guaranteed due to weather conditions like clouds or haze.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, stops, and sightseeing.

What is included in the tour?
Transportation, a driver-guide, and a light meal (if upgraded) are included. Meals can be added during check-in for about 250kr.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera or phone fully charged for photos, plus layers of clothing suitable for variable weather.

Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, all guides speak fluent English and are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge.

What size are the groups?
Typically small, around 8-15 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I choose the meal upgrade on the day?
Yes, you can opt for the warm meal at check-in, but it’s best to decide early as meals cannot be ordered at the restaurant during the tour.

Is cultural or natural history discussed?
Guides do share background info about the wildlife, landscape, and local culture, enriching your understanding of the scenery.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins inside the “Northern Shots” shop and ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.

In the end, the Sommarøy Fjord Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Norway’s northern coast. With friendly guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to see the midnight sun, it’s a memorable adventure that balances comfort with genuine natural beauty. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply curious about the Arctic landscapes, this tour is well worth considering.