Arctic-alpine Botanic Garden

Arctic-alpine Botanic Garden in Tromsø is widely described as the northernmost botanic garden in the world. It sits in northern Norway and is run by the Tromsø University Museum. The garden opened in 1994, and entry is free.

What is this place?

The garden occupies a site where an old farmhouse once stood. Today it shows Arctic and alpine plants gathered from across the Northern Hemisphere and beyond. They are arranged in dozens of themed collections, organised by cold regions of the world, including Svalbard, the Himalayas and South America. Sources give different counts for the collections, but all agree on thousands of plant species.

Because the garden belongs to the university museum, it serves both researchers and ordinary visitors. It is striking to see so many species from distant mountain ranges growing this far north.

What should you see?

One of the best-known highlights is the Tibetan blue poppy, grown in the Himalayan section, which blooms in late June. The South American beds and the plants from Svalbard are also worth seeking out, since they show how very different species cope with cold.

There is also a café in a reconstruction of the Hansine Hansen farmhouse, a pleasant place to rest after walking the paths.

When should you go?

The growing season is the best time. According to VisitNorway the garden is normally open from May to October, depending on snow conditions, and closed in winter. Atlas Obscura describes it as a place without a gate or barrier. Because the sources differ, check the current situation before a winter visit.

How do you get there?

From the centre of Tromsø, take bus 20 to the Northern Lights Planetarium. From there it is a short, pleasant walk through the woods to the garden. Walking all the way from the city centre takes about 40 minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Is it really the northernmost botanic garden? Yes, it is widely described as the northernmost botanic garden in the world, at roughly 69.7 degrees north.

Who runs the garden? The Tromsø University Museum.

Is there an entrance fee? No, entry is free.

When does the Tibetan blue poppy bloom? Usually in late June.

Is there somewhere to eat? Yes, a café operates in a reconstruction of the Hansine Hansen farmhouse.

Is the garden open in winter? It may be closed in winter. The most reliable time to visit is from May to October.