Balsfjord is Northern Norway’s fjord-framed sanctuary — a sprawling municipality in Troms county where mountains meet wetlands and the northern lights dance above dog sleds. With around 5,500 residents and two majestic fjords (Balsfjorden and Malangen), Balsfjord is a nature-lover’s dream and a cultural crossroads. Whether you’re chasing auroras, hiking ancient trails, or sipping coffee in a 19th-century farm shop, Balsfjord offers wilderness with a warm welcome.
Top Attractions
- Balsfjord Fjordmuseum – wetlands, wildlife & fjord ecology
- Rock Carvings at Tennes – 7,000-year-old hunter art
- Malangen Church – wooden church from 1853
- Into Nature – dog sledding, snowshoeing & arctic hikes
- Sami Shop AS – handcrafted duodji & reindeer goods
Where to Stay
Browse hotels and guesthouses in Balsfjord
Where to Eat
Explore top-rated restaurants in Balsfjord
Getting There
Balsfjord is about 1 hour south of Tromsø via the E6 highway. The nearest airport is Tromsø (TOS), and buses connect villages like Storsteinnes, Nordkjosbotn, and Mortenhals. Ferries and scenic drives offer access to Malangen and surrounding fjord communities.
Maps: Getting to Balsfjord
From Tromsø
View full route from Tromsø to Balsfjord
