Markets
Since Tromsø has a refreshing climate, the outdoor markets are not all that impressive. Look for the following, though:
The Main Square Torget has numerous souvenir sellers in summer. Russians sell souvenirs, and you get some knitwear and Sami souvenirs sold by real Sami people. Due to the northern location, local vegetables are of limited volume. However, in August and September, little turnips and carrots that are really crunchy and tasty are for sale. In late July you might want to look for northern strawberries.
Dragøy
The fish port sells cod, coalfish and shrimps directly from the boat. This is not the biggest fish market in the world, but the catch is straight from the sea. If the boats are all gone by the time you come, go to Dragøy next to the dockside. Here you get good quality fish, they can even make you a picnic of varied fish and seafood. Another interesting place to purchase interesting food are the lorries selling fish, particularly during the winter cod fishery. Cod flesh, liver, roe, tongues, stomachs and chins are on sale. Ask how to bread your cod's tongue right to get that crunchy taste!
Before Christmas, the farmers from the inland valleys visit. In addition to Christmas trees, they sell local cakes and sweets.
Julemesse
Is another pre-christmas specialty, meaning a little fair of craft. the knitting ladies from the whole area sell their mittens, tablecloths etc., and the income is often for some charity. an excellent way to stock up on original christmas presents, and a deep dive into traditional craft.
Department stores and shopping malls
Department stores in Tromsø are easy to overview, and hold no surprises. They are convenient for any necessity, though, since they stay open until 8pm 6pm on Saturdays.
Literature
Bokhuset
is the best place on town to look for books on Norwegian themes. Most books are in Norwegian, though.
Narvesen
For English-language pocket books, many Narvesen kiosks stock the latest best-sellers Norwegians buy them too. Bookshops like Bokhuset, Ark and Tromsø Bokhandel all in the main street have a bigger selection. Prices hover around NOK 100 USD 15, so you might consider bringing them from home instead.
The production of interesting books about the north in Norwegian language is huge. However, the selection of good titles in English is limited.
Tromsø Museum
Part of the university of tromsã¸, has a rather good selection of scientific books on the north, again mostly in norwegian.
Design
Tromsø Gift and Souvenir Shop
is the ultimate souvenir shop in town, and offers glitzy kitsch with a wink. Great fun, and the place to look for a gift to the person that looks after your cat.
Original buys include:
Blåst
the world's northernmost glass factory makes original glass objects. They also ship.
Kranes Kunstgalleri og rammeverksted
is the place to look for paintings and sculptures from Northern Norway.
Snarby Strikkestudio
has knitwear from Norway, as well as a vast array of souvenirs. Look for seal skin slippers.
Husfliden
is part of a national chain of craft shops. The quality is high, and so are the prices.