🌞 Arctic Sunshine & Ice Bar Magic: Our Favorite Day in Tromsø

There are days on a cruise that feel like a dream—where everything aligns just right, from the weather to the wonder. Our day in Tromsø, Norway was exactly that. It began with a touch of elegance and ended in icy enchantment.

🚪 A Suite Start to the Day

As upper suite guests aboard the Celebrity Apex, we were treated to priority disembarkation, personally escorted off the ship by our butler. It’s a small gesture that sets the tone—luxury, ease, and a sense that the day ahead is something special.

We hopped into a taxi and headed straight to the Fjellheisen Gondola, determined to beat the crowds to the top. Though we were dressed for Arctic chill, Tromsø greeted us with warm, golden sunshine. The contrast was surreal—sunlight dancing on snow-capped peaks, the air crisp but inviting.

🏔️ Views from the Top

At the summit, the overlook—Storsteinen—offered a breathtaking panorama. From this height, our majestic Celebrity Apex looked like a toy ship nestled in the fjord below. The town stretched out beneath us, framed by brilliant blue skies and shimmering water dotted with boats. It was all so pretty—like a living postcard. We lingered for nearly an hour, soaking in the views and the unexpected warmth, feeling like we were on top of the world. We didn’t want to leave—every glance was a moment to savor—but we knew Tromsø had more magic waiting below. It’s a place we’d love to visit again.

⛪ A Quick Stop at the Arctic Cathedral

Descending the gondola, we began a scenic downhill walk to the Arctic Cathedral. Its striking architecture is iconic, though the experience was brief—just enough time to snap a few photos and appreciate the design. The entrance fee did grant us a much-needed bathroom break, which, in travel terms, is a win.

🚌 Bus Blunders & Hilltop Perspective

We’re seasoned travelers, comfortable navigating public transport. With a bus stop just steps from the Cathedral, we hopped on the next one—only to discover that Tromsø buses are cash-only. Oops. We rode across the bridge into town, then continued uphill, unintentionally extending our journey. But from atop the adjacent hill, we were rewarded with sweeping views of the city—this time looking back toward the Arctic Cathedral and the harbor from a whole new perspective.

❄️ Enter the Magic Ice Bar

After a 20-minute downhill walk, we arrived at Magic Ice Bar, a sub-zero lounge carved entirely from ice. The walls, seating, and even the glasses are made of frozen water, creating a surreal and sparkling atmosphere. Inside, we wandered through a gallery of illuminated ice sculptures—each one telling a story of Arctic exploration, Norwegian folklore, or maritime history. Colored lights danced across the frozen surfaces, and upbeat music added warmth to the chill. Our welcome drink, served in an ice glass, was the perfect toast to this frosty wonderland.

🍻 A Toast to Tradition

Next, we visited Ølhallen, the oldest bar in Norway. Stepping inside felt like entering a time capsule—dark wood paneling, vintage beer taps, and a cozy, old-world atmosphere that radiated character. One of the most memorable features? A massive stuffed polar bear standing guard near the entrance, a nod

to Tromsø’s Arctic heritage and a favorite photo op for visitors. We toasted to a day well spent, feeling both accomplished and enchanted.

🛍️ Back to the Ship, Hearts Full

Before heading back, we squeezed in a bit of souvenir shopping—just enough time to pick up a few keepsakes that would remind us of Tromsø’s charm long after we sailed away. Then we boarded the complimentary Celebrity bus, returning to the Apex with tired feet and full hearts. It was a day of contrasts—sunshine and snow, elegance and exploration, missteps and magic. And it reminded us why we travel: to feel alive, to be surprised, and to collect moments that shimmer long after the journey ends.

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