Polaria Aquarium
Hjalmar Johansens gate 12, Tromsø, Norway, 9296
The first aquarium set within the Arctic Circle and one of only two places in Europe where you can see bearded seals up close, Tromsø’s Polaria is a wildlife experience of a superior kind. Focused on education—including, of course, the climate dangers facing the Arctic—this spot connects visitors with northern Norway’s most beloved marine creatures via hands-on demonstrations, a panoramic cinema, and more.
The basics
The first thing you’ll notice is Polaria’s architecture. Built by Norwegian architectural firm JAF, the facility resembles an iceberg falling to the shore. Inside, you’ll find the panoramic theater with three shows dedicated to northern Norway’s landscapes, wildlife, and northern lights, all included with your ticket. You’ll also spot several aquariums with wolffish, anemones, snow crabs, and more, in addition to the aquarium’s piece de resistance: the seal pools. Bella, Mai San, Lyra, and Loffen train and play in front of audiences daily.
Things to know before you go
- Polaria is undergoing a massive expansion involving building larger pools for its beloved seals. Be prepared for parts of specific exhibits to be closed during your visit.
- The seals are fed and trained three times daily, at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 3:30pm.
- Don’t skip the theater—the shows on a 68-foot (21-meter) screen are fantastic, immersive experiences.
How to get there
The best way to get to Polaria is on foot. It’s just a 5-minute walk along the scenic harbor front from the Tourist Information kiosk. Otherwise, you can take a bus or taxi; buses 33, 40, and 42 stop near Polaria. If you arrive via personal vehicle, Polaria has its own parking lot.
When to get there
The highlight of a visit to Polaria for most travelers is watching the seals feed and train—typically, that happens daily at 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 3:30pm. Check the schedule for “lab” presentations in the classroom, too; they vary by species, and there might be a specific one you’re interested in.
An arctic wonder
This is the northernmost aquarium in the world, and nowhere else will you get such a thorough view of life in high-north Norway. Beyond the bearded and harbor seals, look for Arctic char, salmon, starfish, sea cucumbers, wolffish, sea urchins, shellfish, and more. Pair it with a tour of the Balsfjord, where these creatures live, to deepen your Polaria experience.
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