Servus! My girlfriend and I (early 20s) are visiting Tromsø from Austria. We’re staying in an Airbnb, so we decided to do a "simple" grocery run for breakfast and some basic dinner supplies.
Being familiar with Spar back home, we headed there thinking it was a safe bet. We didn't go for anything fancy, but when the cashier told us the total, i was a little bit shocked. Is spar a premium store here? Honestly, I was impressed by the selection of bread. All in paper bags and felt very fresh. We just grabbed a loaf that looked good.

Questions for the locals:
* Rate our cart: Based on the photo, did we buy the "luxury" version of anything? What would a savvy Norwegian have picked instead?

  • The Store: Is Spar considered expensive here? Where should we go next time to save our travel budget? (Kiwi? Rema 1000?)

  • Local Secrets: What are your weekly "must-buys" that don't break the bank?

  • Tromsø vs. Norway: Are we paying a "Northern Norway" premium here, or is this just the standard cost of living in 2026?

We love your city so far, even if our wallets are crying a little. I would really like to know more about how it is live here and I am looking forward to your advice!



—
_Arasim_

4 comments

  2. First price aims to be as cheap as possible. There is nothing wrong with it, but you can get “better” food, if you go up a price class.

    Most Norwegians buy products from Tine, Sunniva, Gilde etc, so I’d say you are pretty covered. Doesn’t look to far of what I would purchase during a week.

  3. Go to Kiwi or Rema 1000 next tome. Spar and Joker stores are usually more expensive.

    I would look for first price products. They are cheaper, made in the same factories as the other, and similar quality.

  4. Go to kiwi and get the First Price things. Edit: actually nvm, I see you have some there.

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