Polaria aquarium is an Arctic aquarium and science-focused experience centre at Hjalmar Johansens gate 12, 9007 Tromsø, Norway, on the waterfront at the southern edge of the city centre. Its distinctive building resembles ice floes pushed onto land. Operated as a nonprofit foundation, Polaria connects visitors with northern marine life and Arctic research through seal encounters, interactive exhibitions and panoramic films. Its research-led displays are developed with the Fram Centre and UiT.
What to Expect at Polaria aquarium
The seals are the main attraction, but watching their training adds more context than simply seeing them swim. Polaria houses seven seals representing three species: bearded, harbour and ringed seals. Daily sessions include exercises that provide physical and mental stimulation and help staff monitor animal health. The expanded seal enclosure is three times its previous size, with panoramic windows, natural daylight and an outdoor pool. The local tourism authority’s venue guide explains how these changes create additional viewing opportunities.
Elsewhere, aquariums introduce fish, shellfish and other animals from northern waters. Interactive exhibitions explore underwater sound, Arctic food webs and the effects of human activity and climate change. Rather than treating wildlife and environmental science as separate subjects, the displays connect individual animals with the ecosystems supporting them. The panoramic cinema offers another perspective: its 21-metre-wide screen presents films about the northern lights around Tromsø, Svalbard and life behind the scenes at Polaria. Screenings run repeatedly and are included with admission.
- Seal training: Watch scheduled feeding and training at 10:30, 12:30 and 15:30 daily.
- Three seal species: Compare the appearance and behaviour of bearded, harbour and ringed seals.
- Northern marine life: Look for catfish and small sharks, plus seabed species visitors can touch in designated displays.
- Panoramic cinema: See Arctic landscapes and aurora imagery without depending on outdoor weather.
- Research-based exhibitions: Explore Arctic soundscapes and the relationships between marine animals, people and climate.
Polaria aquarium at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Hjalmar Johansens gate 12, 9007 Tromsø, Norway |
| Neighborhood / Area | Southern city-centre waterfront |
| Operating Hours | Daily 10:00–17:00; May 17: 12:00–17:00; December 24: 10:00–16:00 |
| Admission & Ticket Prices | Adults NOK 395; children 3–15 NOK 220; ages 0–2 free; students with ID and seniors 67+ NOK 260; family, two adults plus three children, NOK 925 |
| Recommended Visit Duration | About two hours |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Bus routes 33, 34, 40 and 42 stop outside; independently operated paid parking across the street |
| Official Website / Phone | Polaria official website; +47 77 75 01 00 |
Use Polaria’s practical information for opening exceptions and transport details, and Visit Tromsø’s ticket listing for admission categories.
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Arrive at opening for the 10:30 seal session, then work around the cinema programme; alternatively, build your visit around the 12:30 feeding. Avoid leaving everything until the final hour if you want both films and exhibitions. Buy through the official ticket page: standard admission covers the aquarium, exhibitions, cinema and seal feedings throughout opening hours on your selected date. Guided tours, behind-the-scenes visits and personal seal encounters are separately bookable extras. Check their availability before arranging the rest of your day.
Walking along the quay is a straightforward approach from central Tromsø; the listed bus routes offer an alternative. Inside, wheelchair-friendly ramps and an aquarium elevator provide access to the seal pool, and strollers can accompany visitors throughout. An accessible toilet has an infant changing table, and one wheelchair is available to borrow free. Afterwards, allow roughly five minutes on foot to the Mack brewery area and Ølhallen, or around ten minutes to Tromsø Cathedral and nearby central dining streets. These approximate walking times make either pairing manageable without another vehicle journey; the city-centre map helps orient the route.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours and best arrival time?
Normal hours are 10:00–17:00 daily, with holiday exceptions listed above. Arriving at 10:00 gives you half an hour before the first feeding. Check the daily programme when planning around films or additional activities.
How much are tickets, and should I reserve?
Adult admission is NOK 395, and children aged 3–15 pay NOK 220. The NOK 925 family ticket covers two adults and three children. Online tickets are date-specific; reserve separately for optional experiences with limited capacity.
How long should I spend at Polaria?
Budget approximately two hours, matching Polaria’s recommended visit time. That allows a balanced visit rather than only a quick look at the seals. Add time if you book a guided activity.
Is Polaria suitable for children and wheelchair users?
Yes. Interactive displays and marine animals suit a family visit, while ramps, a lift and accessible toilet facilities support visitors with reduced mobility. Pushchairs are permitted throughout, including access to the seal-pool level by elevator.
When planning your Tromso travel guide or comparing verified attractions and museums in Tromso, pair this stop with standout local spots including Bardus Bistro, Folkeparken, Malangen Brygger Resort, and MS Polstjerna (nearby).
