Our journey through Tromsø's history begins with the remarkable site of the Ancient Rock Carvings. Dating to the Stone Age, these fascinating petroglyphs are the oldest traces of human presence in the region. They are located in Kvaløysletta, not far from the city center, and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The carvings depict a variety of scenes from the lives of prehistoric communities, including hunting, rituals and daily activities. The site is not only a valuable resource for archaeologists, but also a fascinating attraction for tourists, allowing them to literally touch history thousands of years ago.

It is worth noting that although the engravings themselves are perfectly visible, experts suggest that there may be yet undiscovered works hidden beneath the surface. The area is still the subject of archaeological research, which means that each visit can bring new discoveries and interpretations. For families with children, this is a great opportunity to learn about prehistory in an interactive and engaging way.

Moving back in time, we reach the Viking Age, traces of which can also be found in Tromsø. Although no spectacular monuments from this period have survived here, the city was an important point on the map of Viking expeditions. At The Arctic University Museum of Norway, you can find exhibits and information about this fascinating period in Norwegian history.

The Arctic University Museum of Norway, located at Lars Thørings veg 10, is where Viking history meets Arctic research. This museum, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5, offers fascinating exhibitions on not only the Vikings, but also Saami culture, local flora and fauna, and modern polar research. It's an ideal place for families who want to explore the region in a comprehensive way.

The museum is especially praised for its interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to literally touch history. Here, children can learn how the aurora borealis was formed, learn fascinating stories from northern Norway or see how the ancient inhabitants of this land lived. It's worth planning at least 1.5 hours for a visit to take full advantage of the museum's rich offerings.

When comparing the two sites, it's worth noting that while Ancient rock carvings offer direct contact with the region's oldest history, The Arctic University Museum of Norway provides a broader historical and scientific context. Both sites are easily accessible and offer a fascinating educational experience for the whole family, providing an excellent start to a journey through Tromsø's history.

When taking Tromsø's fascinating history to the next stage, it's impossible to ignore the period that made the city world famous - the golden age of polar exploration. At the center of this remarkable heritage is The Polar Museum, a true gem among Tromsø's attractions.

The Polar Museum, located at Søndre Tollbodgate 11B, is a place that transports visitors to the heart of Arctic adventures. With an impressive 4.4 out of 5 rating, this museum is a must-see for anyone who wants to understand why Tromsø is called the 'Gateway to the Arctic'. The museum is housed in a historic warehouse dating back to the 1830s, which in itself is a fascinating trip back in time.

The exhibits at The Polar Museum cover a wide range of topics related to polar exploration. You can find fascinating exhibits on hunting polar foxes, seals, polar bears and walruses, as well as learn about the stories of famous trappers such as Wanny Wolstad and Henry Rudi. The museum also offers extensive material on the polar expeditions of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen, two of Norway's most famous polar explorers.

For families with children, The Polar Museum offers a unique educational experience. Here, young explorers can see authentic equipment used during polar expeditions, learn about daily life on Svalbard and understand the challenges Arctic explorers faced. The museum is especially recommended for those interested in the history of polar exploration and the expeditions that shaped our knowledge of the Arctic regions.

A visit to The Polar Museum can be complemented by a visit to the Roald Amundsen Monument, which is located in the center of the city. This monument, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5, commemorates not only the first man to reach the South Pole, but also his contribution to Arctic exploration. The Amundsen monument provides an excellent place to reflect on the courage and determination of polar explorers who risked their lives in the name of geographic discovery.

When comparing the two sites, it's worth noting that while The Polar Museum offers a deep dive into the history and details of polar exploration, the Roald Amundsen Monument is a symbolic commemoration of the field's greatest achievements. Both sites are easily accessible in the city center and can be visited in a single walk.

The Polar Museum requires the purchase of a ticket (about $40 per adult according to review information), but instead offers a few hours of fascinating travel through history. The Amundsen Monument, on the other hand, can be viewed free of charge, making it a great spot for souvenir photos and a brief history lesson for children.

It is worth planning a visit to The Polar Museum for at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the richness of the exhibits. We especially recommend paying attention to the exhibit on the Tirpitz in the ammunition bunker, which is often overlooked by tourists, but is a fascinating part of the region's history.

To conclude our journey through Tromsø's history, take a look at the places that link the past and present, offering a contemporary look at the cultural heritage of this fascinating city. Two sites of particular interest are the Perspective Museum and the Northern Norwegian Art Museum.

The Perspective Museum, located at Storgata 95, is a remarkable place that uses photography to tell the story of important events for the people of Tromsø. With a rating of 4.4 out of 5, this museum offers a unique experience to see the city's history through the eyes of its residents. One of the most interesting exhibitions is the documentation of the construction of the bridge connecting Tromsø to Transdalen, which is symbolic of the development of the city and its infrastructure.

What sets the Perspective Museum apart is its free entry, making it a great option for families traveling on a tight budget. The museum offers changing photographic exhibitions with different themes, so each visit can bring new discoveries. It's the perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon, where you can immerse yourself in Tromsø's visual history.

In contrast, the Northern Norwegian Art Museum, located at Sjøgata 1, offers a broader view of the region's culture and art. With a rating of 4.2 out of 5, this museum presents collections divided into several thematic groups, offering visitors a comprehensive look at the artistic heritage of northern Norway.

The Northern Norwegian Art Museum stands out for its spaciousness and interesting exhibition layout. Of note are the controversial works of art, which can set the stage for interesting family discussions about art and its interpretation. The museum also offers Polish elements, which can be an interesting touch for Polish tourists.

Comparing the two museums, it's worth noting that while the Perspective Museum focuses on photography and local history, the Northern Norwegian Art Museum offers a broader view of the region's art. The Perspective Museum is free, making it more accessible, while the Northern Norwegian Art Museum requires the purchase of a ticket (80 NOK per adult according to the latest information), but offers a more extensive exhibition in return.

Both museums are excellent choices for families with children, offering not only an educational experience, but also opportunities for creative interpretation of art and history. At the Perspective Museum, children can learn how photography documents changes in society, while at the Northern Norwegian Art Museum they can explore a variety of art forms and develop their aesthetic sensibilities.

It's worth planning a visit to both museums, spending about an hour at the Perspective Museum and 2-3 hours at the Northern Norwegian Art Museum. This will give you a complete picture of Tromsø's contemporary art and culture, a perfect complement to the historical aspects of the city you have previously learned.

Summarizing our journey through Tromsø's history, from ancient petroglyphs, through the Viking Age and the golden age of polar exploration, to contemporary art and culture, we can appreciate how rich and diverse the heritage of this remarkable city is. Each of the sites visited offers a unique perspective on Tromsø's history and culture, creating a fascinating mosaic of experiences for visitors of all ages.