How to Save Money on Arctic Cathedral Tickets

The Arctic Cathedral is one of Tromsø’s must-see attractions, but at 80 NOK (~$8 USD) per person, entrance fees can add up, especially for families. Here’s how to experience this iconic landmark without breaking the bank.

Free Ways to See the Arctic Cathedral

1. View from Outside (FREE)

The cathedral’s exterior is stunning and completely free to admire. You can:

Photograph from the Tromsø Bridge for the classic postcard view
Walk around the building and grounds (free access)
Enjoy the illuminated exterior at night (spectacular with Northern Lights in winter)

Cost: FREE Time needed: 15-30 minutes

2. Attend Sunday Service (FREE)

Regular church services are free to attend and open to all:

Sunday service: 11:00 AM
Experience the interior, glass mosaic, and acoustics
Respectful behavior required (silence phones, dress modestly)

Cost: FREE Bonus: You’ll get the full interior experience at no cost!

3. Special Services & Events (FREE)

Some special services are free:

Christmas Eve service
Easter services
Special religious ceremonies

Check the official calendar for upcoming free events.

Money-Saving Tips for Paid Visits

4. Skip the Concert, Visit During Regular Hours

Concert tickets: 200-300 NOK Regular entrance: 80 NOK

Save 120-220 NOK per person by visiting during regular daytime hours instead of attending a midnight sun concert. You’ll still see everything except the musical performance.

5. Use the Tromsø Pass

If visiting multiple attractions:

Check if Arctic Cathedral is included in the Tromsø City Pass
Calculate if pass saves money based on your itinerary
Typically worthwhile if visiting 3+ paid attractions

6. Family Ticket Discount

Individual adults: 80 NOK each = 160 NOK for 2 adults
Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children): 200 NOK
Savings: If traveling with kids, family ticket saves money

7. Student/Senior Discounts

Bring valid ID for discounted rates:

Students: 60 NOK (save 20 NOK)
Seniors (67+): 60 NOK (save 20 NOK)

8. Children Under 12 are FREE

Kids under 12 enter free - no ticket needed!

Budget-Friendly Alternatives

9. Combine with Free Nearby Attractions

Maximize your trip by pairing with free activities:

Walk across Tromsø Bridge (free, scenic)
Explore Tromsdalen neighborhood (free)
Northern Lights viewing from cathedral parking lot (free in winter)

10. Visit in Shoulder Season

While entrance fee stays the same, you’ll save on:

Accommodation (cheaper in spring/fall)
Fewer crowds = better photo opportunities
More flexibility (no need to pre-book)

The “Free Photography Day”

Create your own free Arctic Cathedral experience:

Morning: Photograph exterior from bridge (FREE)
11:00 AM: Attend Sunday service to see interior (FREE)
Evening: Return for Northern Lights photography (FREE, winter only)

Total cost: 0 NOK! Total experience: Nearly complete Arctic Cathedral visit

What You’ll Miss by Not Paying

Be aware that free options don’t include:

Detailed interior exploration during non-service hours
Flexibility in timing (services are at set times)
Concert experiences
Supporting the cathedral’s maintenance

Our Recommendation

Best Value: Attend a Sunday service (free) to see the interior, then return during regular hours if you want more time to photograph and explore at your own pace.

Budget-Conscious Families: Use the family ticket (200 NOK for 2 adults + 2 kids) - it’s the best deal.

Photography Enthusiasts: Pay the 80 NOK entrance fee for access during optimal lighting times (16:00-17:00 for glass mosaic).

Is It Worth Paying?

Yes, if:

You want to visit during ideal photography hours
You prefer exploring at your own pace
You want to support cultural heritage maintenance
80 NOK fits comfortably in your budget

Skip the entrance fee if:

Budget is extremely tight
You’re happy viewing from outside
You can attend a Sunday service
You’re primarily interested in exterior photography