Radisson Blu Hotel, Tromso

This hotel is highly regarded for its prime waterfront location, offering stunning views of the harbor and surrounding mountains, making it a memorable choice for visitors. Its signature feature is its exceptional accessibility, serving as a central hub for tours and city exploration, which is particularly beneficial for sightseers and adventure travelers. The hotel consistently receives praise for its comprehensive breakfast and the generally helpful demeanor of its staff. While some aspects of room comfort and service can be inconsistent, the overall experience is often positive. For couples seeking a romantic getaway or families exploring the Arctic, the convenient location and comfortable amenities provide a solid base. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room on a higher floor for the best views and be prepared for potentially busy periods at check-in.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests have access to a well-equipped fitness center and a sauna, both offering impressive views, which are highly appreciated for relaxation after a day of activities. In-room conveniences include a refrigerator, water kettle, and coffee maker, allowing guests to enjoy beverages at their leisure. While there isn't a traditional full-service bar or restaurant within the hotel, a pizza place is conveniently located next door. The hotel also provides ice machines on various floors, adding to guest convenience. Some guests noted that the gym's name, "Top Relax," could be misleading, and that the sauna's closing time might be too early for late arrivals.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Room comfort receives mixed feedback, with many guests finding standard rooms to be small or cramped, often lacking sufficient wardrobe or drawer space for clothes and suitcases. However, the beds are consistently praised as comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, often featuring warm duvets. The bathrooms are frequently described as very small and sometimes outdated, with some reporting issues like leaking showers or water spreading onto the floor. While overall cleanliness is generally good, some specific complaints include stains on linens, hair in showers, or unvacuumed carpets. Noise levels can vary, with some guests experiencing street noise or sounds from the ventilation system or adjacent rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's breakfast is a standout feature, consistently described as excellent, superb, and offering an extensive variety of options. Guests particularly enjoy the omelet bar, pancakes, and the availability of a coffee machine that includes oat milk. The buffet features a wide selection of hot and cold food, fresh fruit, pastries, and gluten-free options. While the quality of food is highly praised, the breakfast area can become crowded and busy, especially during peak times, leading to occasional queues for coffee machines. Some guests noted that staff occasionally cleared tables too quickly. The only other dining option directly associated with the hotel is a pizza place next door, which some found to be average.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, making it incredibly convenient for exploring the city. It is situated directly on the harbor front, offering easy walking access to shops, restaurants, and local attractions. A significant advantage is its proximity to tour pick-up points; many excursions depart directly from the hotel entrance or from the nearby bus station. The Airport Express bus stop is conveniently located just across the street, providing seamless transfers to and from the airport. While the location is highly praised, guests should be aware that parking is not provided by the hotel and can be expensive and challenging to find nearby.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives high praise for being friendly, helpful, and professional, with many guests highlighting their attentiveness and willingness to assist with various requests, from lost luggage to local inquiries. However, feedback on the check-in process is mixed; while some experienced quick and smooth arrivals, others reported long queues, slow handling times, and perceived indifference from some front desk personnel. Housekeeping service also garnered varied comments, with some guests noting inconsistencies in room cleaning or amenity replenishment. Despite these occasional issues, the staff's overall commitment to providing a positive experience is frequently mentioned, contributing significantly to guest satisfaction.

Additional Information
Guests who are members of the hotel's rewards program may be eligible for benefits such as room upgrades or early check-in, though some members expressed disappointment if these perks were not offered. The hotel's luggage storage facility is noted by some to be less secure than expected, located in a public area without constant supervision. Guests should also be aware that the hotel occasionally hosts events that can lead to loud music audible in some rooms. For those sensitive to light, the hotel provides automatic blackout shades, which are particularly useful during periods of extended daylight.