Fløya Sherpa Steps
Ascend 1203 stone steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Tromsø, a rewarding hike and a budget-friendly alternative to the cable car.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Fløya Sherpa Steps
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend 1203 stone steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Tromsø, a rewarding hike and a budget-friendly alternative to the cable car.
"Beats 55 EUR gondola ride every time! The view is great, even if the sun is not shining."
👟 Wear Good Grip Shoes
The steps can be slippery, especially after rain. Good traction is essential for a safe and comfortable climb.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Summer months can bring flying insects. A good repellent will make your ascent much more pleasant.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 1203 Sherpa Steps
Base of Fløya
A meticulously crafted stone staircase offering a challenging yet rewarding ascent to breathtaking panoramic views.

Panoramic Summit Views
Top of Fløya
Unobstructed vistas of Tromsø, surrounding fjords, and mountains – a photographer's dream, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Summit Cafe Refreshments
At the top of the steps
A welcome spot for a treat after your climb, offering drinks, snacks, and even vegan brownies.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Steps: Stamina is Key
Beat the Crowds & Summer Bugs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Good Grip Shoes
The steps can be slippery, especially after rain. Good traction is essential for a safe and comfortable climb.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Summer months can bring flying insects. A good repellent will make your ascent much more pleasant.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Beat the rush and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Parking is also easier to find earlier in the day.
💧 Stay Hydrated
While there are benches, carrying water is a good idea for the steady climb.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Good Grip Shoes
The steps can be slippery, especially after rain. Good traction is essential for a safe and comfortable climb.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Summer months can bring flying insects. A good repellent will make your ascent much more pleasant.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Beat the rush and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Parking is also easier to find earlier in the day.
💧 Stay Hydrated
While there are benches, carrying water is a good idea for the steady climb.
💰 Cable Car Alternative
The steps offer a fantastic, budget-friendly way to reach the summit compared to the expensive cable car.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Fløya Sherpa Steps as a fantastic, free alternative to the expensive cable car, offering rewarding exercise and breathtaking panoramic views of Tromsø. The well-maintained steps and available benches make the climb manageable, though good grip shoes and summer insect repellent are recommended. Some find the summit cafe a bit pricey.
"Easy hike, 1203 steps and you're up. Beats 55 EUR gondola ride every time! The view is great, even if the sun is not shining."
Roman Oblak
"Wonderful steps to the top. Around 1300 steps (that are marked with remaining steps every 100 steps). It's not an easy hike, you need some stamina and good working legs to do the hike. You could also buy an gondola up and walk back down e.g."
Michael Johler
"A really well made tour. The difficulty is easy-medium, time is about 1 hour up, 1 hour down (for intermediate hikers), with exactly 1203 stairs (every 100th stair is numbered for perfect indication of progress). There is also a fair bit of climbing to the initial starting point (first stair) which is a bit more steep and slippery, and a very little climb & walk to the viewpoint after the last stair. The view is gorgeous and definitely worth it! There are many stops, every 100-200 stairs or so, with benches to sit on. I recommend using mosquito repellent during the summer though, there are quite a bit of flying insects. Also recommend using shoes with good grip. The cable car takes you to the exact same viewpoint, however it is NOT operational at the moment (probably under maintenance, but prices seem expensive with 300kr per person up, then another 300kr down, or even just one of them)."
Erik Fekete
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located near Tromsø. Many visitors drive and park nearby, though parking can be limited. Public transport options are also available, with buses stopping within walking distance of the trailhead.
Yes, there is parking, but it can be challenging to find, especially during peak times. Arriving early is recommended. Some visitors suggest parking further away and walking to the trailhead.
Taxis are readily available in Tromsø and can take you directly to the trailhead. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or worry about parking.
Yes, local buses in Tromsø serve the area near the trailhead. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes and times.
The starting point is clearly marked and is the beginning of the 1203 stone steps. There's a short, steeper climb to reach the initial stair.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Fløya Sherpa Steps is free. It's a public hiking trail, making it a great budget-friendly activity.
The steps are accessible 24/7, as it's an outdoor trail. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best views.
There is no entrance fee to hike the Fløya Sherpa Steps. It's a free public amenity.
Yes, a cable car also goes to the same viewpoint. However, it is often significantly more expensive than hiking the steps.
No booking is required. You can simply show up and start your hike whenever you wish.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
For intermediate hikers, it typically takes about 40-50 minutes to ascend, with a similar time to descend. This can vary based on fitness level and how many breaks you take.
The difficulty is generally considered easy to medium. The 1203 steps require stamina, but the well-maintained path makes it manageable for most.
Yes, there are benches located every few hundred steps, providing opportunities to rest and enjoy the changing scenery.
The summit offers gorgeous panoramic views of Tromsø city, the surrounding fjords, and the majestic mountains. It's a popular spot for photography.
While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews, the cafe at the top likely has restroom facilities available for patrons.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe at the summit offering various food options, including drinks, snacks, and baked goods like vegan brownies.
Prices at the cafe can be a bit high, with items like tea costing around 55kr. It's a convenient option, but be prepared for tourist pricing.
You are welcome to bring your own snacks and water. This is a good way to save money and ensure you have what you need for the hike.
Yes, the cafe at the top is known to offer vegan brownies, which is a nice option for those with dietary preferences.
The cafe offers a range of beverages, including tea, coffee, and other refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late evenings offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful colors. Sunrise and sunset are particularly stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
The entire summit area provides incredible vantage points. Look for clearings and elevated spots to get unobstructed shots of the city and fjords.
Yes, you can take photos during your ascent, but be mindful of other hikers and ensure you have stable footing. The numbered steps offer unique photo opportunities.
Weather can change quickly in Tromsø. Be prepared for sun, clouds, or even mist, all of which can create dramatic photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sherpa Legacy
The construction of these steps is a significant undertaking, requiring immense physical effort and meticulous planning. The result is a durable and aesthetically pleasing trail that enhances the hiking experience for countless visitors. It's a fascinating intersection of tradition, hard work, and modern tourism infrastructure.
Hiking for All Levels
While the steps themselves are the main feature, the journey to the very top viewpoint might involve a little extra walking and climbing after the last stair. For those seeking an even greater challenge, the Fløya summit is also a starting point for longer hikes to Bønntuva and Tromsdalstinden, though these require significant stamina. The overall experience is considered a rewarding hike for most, offering a great sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit.
Maximizing Your Summit Experience
To truly enhance your visit, consider the timing. Early mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying a more serene experience, and parking is also less of an issue. The golden hour light during sunrise or sunset creates magical photographic opportunities. Remember to wear appropriate footwear with good grip, as the steps can be slippery, and bring mosquito repellent during the summer months to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ascent and descent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit