Arctic Cathedral & Fjellheisen Cable Car

After visiting the Sami community, we returned to Tromsø beneath the first clear skies we’d seen in days—perhaps the last we’d see for the rest of our trip. With the weather finally in our favor, we were eager to make the most of what might be our final chance to witness the Northern Lights.

It felt like the perfect night for a walk. Crossing the impressive bridge that links Tromsø to the mainland, we were met with the striking sight of the Arctic Cathedral, its sharp angles illuminated against the darkening sky. From there, we made our way to the Fjellheisen cable car, hoping for breathtaking views of the city—and, with a bit of luck, the elusive Aurora Borealis. This vantage point is said to be the best in Tromsø for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights, and we could only hope the night would deliver.

By day the Arctic Cathedral is impressive, but at night it’s breathtaking. Tromsdalen Church, also called the Arctic Cathedral, was inaugurated on November 19, 1965. The 11 aluminum-coated concrete slabs on each side of the roof give the cathedral its shape.

The main entrance in the west wall is surrounded by a large glass facade with a distinctive cross. The east wall's stunning glass mosaic was only added in 1972.

The Fjellheisen Cable Car goes from Solliveien in Tromsdalen up to Storsteinen Mountain. The lower station is located on Tromsø's mainland, 50 meters above sea level. The upper station, Fjellstua, is located 421 meters above sea level. The trip takes four minutes.

Fjellheisen is Tromsø's most popular tourist destination to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Tromsø, with a near endless view of islands, fjords, mountains and sea.

The view did not disappoint! 😱Read more