Fjellheisen is Tromsø's cable car, carrying visitors from Solliveien in mainland Tromsdalen up to the mountain ledge of Storsteinen (about 421 m above sea level) in roughly four minutes; it has been the city's signature viewpoint since it opened in 1961. From the outdoor viewing deck at the top you get a sweeping panorama of Tromsø island, the fjords and surrounding peaks — a prime spot for the midnight sun in summer (mid-May to late July) and the northern lights in the dark season (September to April). The two gondolas, named 'Seal' and 'Polar Bear,' still carry the emblems of the arctic sealing-and-expedition shipping company that built the tramway. Note that as of 2025–2026 the lower station area is under construction, so access, parking and step-free arrangements are temporary — check before you go.
Highlights
A 360° panorama of Tromsø island, the fjords and surrounding mountains from the outdoor deck at 421 m
The two historic cabins 'Seal' and 'Polar Bear,' running since 1961 and bearing an arctic shipping company's crests
The midnight sun from mid-May to late July — 24 hours of daylight from the summit
The northern lights in the dark season (September–April), one of Tromsø's best aurora vantage points
The Fjellstua café-restaurant at the top, plus the Sherpatrappa stone stairway and hiking routes toward Fløya
Good to know
SeasonThe summit is far colder and windier than the city, so bring a windproof warm layer, gloves and a hat even in summer. Clouds or fog can hide the view entirely — check the forecast and webcam before buying a ticket.
SeasonThe aurora is only visible on dark, clear nights from September to April (typically 6 pm–2 am); during the midnight sun (roughly 20 May–22 July) the sky never darkens, so no northern lights. Pick the season that matches your goal.
RulesRound-trip fares vary by time slot and start around 595 NOK (confirm the latest price). During aurora season and cruise-ship days it gets very busy, so book a timed ticket in advance on the official site.
RulesBecause of 2025–2026 construction at the lower station, wheelchair/step-free access is limited and parking is redirected to a temporary free lot at Solstrandvegen 30. Prams are allowed but there is no storage for them.
MannersWhen watching the aurora, switch off phone flashlights and lights, keep noise down, and avoid blocking other visitors' tripods and sightlines. Carry all your litter back down with you.
SafetyThe Sherpatrappa (about 1,200–1,300 stone steps) and the summit trails become icy and slippery in winter high winds — wear non-slip footwear or crampons and stay behind the railings and cliff-edge barriers at the viewpoint.
CautionYou can visit the cable car independently without an expensive guided tour; be wary of overpriced third-party 'aurora tour' resellers and buy tickets through the official channel (fjellheisen.no). Use registered taxis and confirm the fare in advance.
Practical info
The lower station is at Solliveien 12 in Tromsdalen, near the Arctic Cathedral; reach it by the winter electric shuttle bus, city bus route 26, a taxi (about 10 minutes, 150–250 NOK), or a 45-minute walk across the Tromsø Bridge. The cable car runs roughly 09:00–24:00 every half hour (about a 4-minute ride) and the summit café stays open until around 23:30, but hours, fares and construction notices change with the season and weather, so confirm the latest details on the official site.
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