Where to see the Northern Lights in Norway
The best places to see the Northern Lights in Norway are north of the Arctic Circle, where the auroral zone passes directly overhead. Top locations for Northern Lights activity include:
Tromsø – Often called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø offers excellent aurora viewing along with vibrant culture and easy access from Oslo.
Alta – Known for its dry inland climate, Alta is one of the most reliable locations for clear winter skies. Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge in Alta is one of our favourites with a range of northern lights experiences possible from the lodge.
Senja and the Lyngen Alps – Scenic and less crowded, these areas combine dramatic landscapes with low light pollution.
Lofoten Islands – Offers aurora views over picturesque fishing villages and coastal peaks, though note the weather can be more variable. Nusfjord Arctic Resort on Lofoten Islands is a great choice, right on the waterfront within a historic fishing village filled with Rorbu cabins.
Svalbard – Though further north, offers a chance to see the Northern Lights even during the daytime in its polar night period. Time a trip to Svalbard for late in the Summer cruise season - September is best - to spot the lights while on a luxury Arctic Cruise from Svalbard to Greenland and Iceland.
Choosing the Best Spot to see the Northern Lights
If your priority is clear skies, consider Alta or another inland area away from the coast. Those seeking the most photogenic landscapes as a backdrop to their northern lights experience may enjoy Senja or the Lofoten Islands. Once you're in the right location, consider how you want to experience the lights. One consideration is accommodation - would you prefer to stay warm indoors while viewing the lights? If so, a stay in a remote luxe cabin like those at Manshausen or Holmen Husky Lodge is ideal, as you can watch the aurora from bed through glass walls and/or windows above the bed. If you like to get active and feel the fresh Arctic air on you, join a guided Northern Lights hunt on foot or by snowmobile to get up close to this natural phenomenon. Hunting the lights by car is also an option that has the benefit of getting you to the best viewing sites quickly.
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway
Another all-important question is of course, when is the best time to visit Norway to see the Northern Lights. The Northern Lights are visible from September to March in Norway, and appear earlier in the Arctic and the higher up you go. If you are planning to visit Norway in the Summer months to hike or join an expedition cruise perhaps, consider travelling in the Shoulder month of September and visiting the Arctic at the end of your trip to maximise your chance of seeing the Northern Lights. A trip to Alta, Bodø, Lofoten Islands and Svalbard can all be easily combined with a journey to Norway's Fjords in Summer or Winter.
Favourite lodges to see the Northern Lights
Finally, here are our favourite luxury lodges and resorts where you can view the Northern Lights from bed or on a northern lights hunt.
Browse our Northern Lights experiences and Norway journeys, or contact our journey designers to discuss your travel plans with an expert.
