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Northern Lights Tours & Trips in Norway

20 northern lights tour packages in norway with 38 reviews.

Northern Lights Family Christmas & New Year +1

Best of Northern Norway Classic - 71° North Cape ( Private Tour)

"The tour was excellent, with a good choice of hotels. Best Active Adventures highly recommended." Loli, traveled in January 2024

Tailor-Made Private Norway Trip to Chase the Northern Lights

"Jann was a fantastic guide / driver who was kind and considerate and wanted the best experience possible for his guests!!" David, traveled in January 2024

• Book With Flexibility View tour Download Brochure

Explorer Active Family Arctic Northern Lights Sightseeing +3

Northern Norway Explorer

"Fantastic tour experience in Norway. Could do with more local guides and activities organised." Emily, traveled in May 2019

Explorer Northern Lights Ocean Cruise Christmas & New Year +2

Norway Fjords and Northern Lights (8 Days)

"Test review, please disregard." Cristian, traveled in November 2022

• €100 deposit on some dates

Explorer Family Northern Lights +1

Polar Nights in Northern Norway - 5 days

"The weather was on our side and we were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights 3/4 night." Ana, traveled in February 2024

Arctic Active Family Northern Lights Explorer Sightseeing Christmas & New Year +4

Under the Northern Lights: Arctic Dreams Norway

"You get it all - the Northern lights, the wildlife, the people and the culture all in one pack." Maryia, traveled in December 2019

Tromso Arctic Experience - 6 days

Polar Family Northern Lights

Sailing, Northern Lights and Whales

Orcas and Humpback Whales Under The Northern Lights

In-depth Cultural Family Northern Lights Explorer Coach / Bus +3

Northern Lights of Scandinavia (Small Groups, 10 Days)

"The tour was very well designed to maximize the experience. The fair lady put on a fantastic show." Allison, traveled in February 2023

In-depth Cultural Family Northern Lights Explorer +2

Northern Lights of Scandinavia (Classic, 10 Days)

"The overall experience was EPIC! Everything, from the pre-tour communications to the entire tour was exceptional." James, traveled in March 2022

Explorer Family Northern Lights Coach / Bus +2

Nordic Adventure (20 Days)

Explorer Family Northern Lights Ocean Cruise +2

Top of Scandinavia with Arctic Circle with Coastal Cruise

Tromso and the Northern Lights - 5 days

Explorer Family Northern Lights Wildlife & Nature Photography +2

Northern Lights Photography and Whale Watching - Photo Tour

What people love about northern lights tours in norway.

Very exciting and perfectly organised Tour. Very friendly Team. We really recommend this tour!

Jann was a fantastic guide / driver who was kind and considerate and wanted the best experience possible for his guests!! Jann was friendly and educated/answered all questions even with personal stories! We were very lucky and had a great viewing night and Jann had prepared us for the post that we would not see anything, would highly suggest the Jann experience to everyone!

This was a bit challenging for me The guide Shane was wonderful

Regions in Norway

• Norwegian Fjords (17)
• Northern Norway (16)
• Lofoten Islands (9)

Travel Styles

• Northern Lights
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in February 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in January 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in March 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in April 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in October 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in November 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in December 2024/2025
• 10 Amazing Northern Lights Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Trips For Single Travellers 2024/2025
• 10 Romantic Northern Lights Getaways For Couples 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours For Seniors 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in September 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in August 2024/2025
• Norway Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Norway Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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▷ The 7 Best Norway Northern Lights Tours [2024 Reviews]

The best place to see the Aurora Borealis dance across the sky is inside the Arctic Circle.

If you’re visiting Norway, the northern city of Tromsø is a fantastic base from which to explore the Arctic countryside in search of those elusive Northern Lights.

If seeing this natural light phenomenon is high on your bucket list, you can find enthusiastic and professional guides in Tromsø.

They’ll take you straight to the best locations from which to observe this surreal light show.

Be sure to see our reviews of Norway Fjord Cruises and Norway Whale Watching Tours .

Best Northern Lights Tours In Norway

Quick answer: the 7 best rated norway northern lights tours for 2024.

• Best Northern Lights Cruise: Northern Lights Photo Cruise From Tromsø
• Best Value Tour: Northern Lights Experience With Aurora Camps From Tromsø
• Best Adventure Tour: Northern Lights & Husky Experience With Dinner From Tromsø
• Best Luxury Tour: Northern Lights tour – All inclusive – Northern Horizon
• Best Small Group Tour: Small-Group Aurora Hunt Northern Lights Tour from Tromso
• Best Guided Tour: Northern Lights Minibus Chase From Tromsø
• Best Northern Lights Sailing: Northern Lights Sailing Trip From Tromsø

We have reviewed the top rated Northern Lights tours in Norway providing overviews and highlighting the details of each. We also make recommendations on staying in Norway in our guide section.

Norway Northern Lights Tour Reviews

1. best northern lights cruise: northern lights photo cruise from tromsø.

• Departure Point : Harbourside of Kystens Hus, Tromsø
• Departure Time : 7:00 PM
• Duration : 4 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, 4-hour cruise through the Arctic fjords, warm safety suits, snacks, hot drinks, and use of a camera tripod.

If you want a clear view of the sky unhindered by the civilization’s light pollution, what better place to go than out on the water?

This Northern Lights hunting tour takes you out along the fjord and beyond in search of the Aurora Borealis. Of course, you’ll be exposed to icy conditions in those Arctic waters. But don’t worry.

You will be provided with a warm safety suit, a hat, gloves, and boots to wear during the cruise, and you can choose between indoor and outdoor seating to watch the light show.

Your experienced skipper will know all the best spots with the greatest probability of viewing the Northern Lights.

Because your group will be small and intimate (12 passengers or less), you’ll have the guide’s full attention when you want to ask questions or need help setting up your camera.

As the tour progresses, you’ll be provided with hot drinks and snacks. If you want to take steady photographs, a tripod will be made available for your use.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best value tour: northern lights experience with aurora camps from tromsø.

• Departure Point: Clarion Edge Hotel, Tromsø
• Departure Time : 6:00 PM
• Duration : 8 hours
• Includes : Expert guide, hunt for the Northern Lights in a luxury coach, lavvo experience at an Aurora camp, warm winter clothing, meal, hot drinks, photographs, the new coach has Wi-Fi, toilets, and a coffee machine.

If you want to combine your Northern Lights tour with a taste of the local Sami culture, this tour will appeal to you. The tour is broken into two parts.

First, you’ll be driven into the Norwegian countryside aboard a new coach. The luxury coach is fitted with Wi-Fi, toilets, and a coffee machine. You can upload your photographs onto Instagram instantly during the tour.

The aim of this initial drive is to reach the location most likely to afford views of the Northern Lights.

Your experienced guides will research local weather patterns, geomagnetic forecasts, and use their local knowledge to find the best vantage point. After a few hours of searching, you’ll move on to the second part of this tour.

Your guides will drive you to one of 3 Aurora camps situated in Kvaløya, Lyngen, and the Tomok Valley. The choice of camp will depend upon which location is most likely to experience the Aurora Borealis later that night.

Once at the selected camp, you’ll join one of two smaller groups inside a traditional Sami lavvo, which is a broad, conical-shaped tent similar to a tipi. Inside your lavvo, you’ll gather around a campfire.

There you’ll be served hot drinks and given the chance to grill your own supper over the fire.

Your guides are professional photographers, so they will be able to help you adjust your camera to take the best possible photograph of the Northern Lights. If you need a tripod to steady your camera, one will be provided.

3. Best Adventure Tour: Northern Lights & Husky Experience With Dinner From Tromsø

• Departure Point: Radisson BLU Hotel, Tromsø
• Departure Time : 6:45 PM
• Includes : Expert guide, warm clothes, transportation to the camp, meet the huskies, campfire, hot meal, coffee, and cake

If you want to sample traditional local food and hospitality, this is a great choice for you. This is by far my favorite of the Northern Light tours, because huskies!

You’ll be driven just 30 minutes out of Tromsø to the husky camp, where you’ll have an opportunity to cuddle husky puppies. There are over 300 huskies in the camp, and you’ll be entertained by their antics.

After that, you’ll be shown into a traditional Sami lavvo (conical tent), where you’ll sit around the fire, drink coffee, and maybe grill some marshmallows.

Your guide will entertain you with traditional Sami stories connected with the Northern Lights.

As the evening progresses, you’ll be served a traditional hot meal of bacalao, which is made from stockfish (dried, preserved cod) and tomato.

The husky camp is a great location from which to observe the Aurora Borealis. You can wait in comfort for the lights to appear, either inside the warm lavvo or outside where you can lay down on reindeer skins.

4. Best Luxury Tour: Northern Lights tour – All inclusive – Northern Horizon

• Departure Point: Hotel pickup in Tromso area
• Duration : 6 to 9 hours
• Includes : Expert guide, bus tour, winter boots, hat, mittens, thermal suit, head torches, use of tripod, dinner, photographs, hotel drop off

If your main aim in visiting Norway is to see the Northern Lights, this is a great tour for you.

With your small group up to eight people of Aurora hunters, you have a good chance of seeing the world’s most famous natural light show in the Arctic wilderness.

After leaving the city center and its light pollution behind, you’ll be whisked away into the Norwegian countryside.

Your expert guide will rely upon his local knowledge, experience, the weather forecast, and geomagnetic forecast to predict where the best location is to view the Aurora Borealis.

Because you’re inside the Arctic Circle, the night will be colder than you’ve ever experienced. For this reason, your guide will provide you with specially designed winter boots, mittens, a hat, and a thermal suit.

Once you’ve arrived at the most promising location, your guide will assist you to set up your cameras, offer photography tips concerning the Northern Lights, and entertain you with stories about the local people and their history.

If conditions allow, he will also build a bonfire to help you keep warm. As the night progresses, your guide will offer you a home-cooked meal.

He will also take photographs of your adventure with his professional camera, which he will email to you the following day. To end the night, you will be dropped off at your hotel.

5. Best Small Group Tour: Small-Group Aurora Hunt Northern Lights Tour from Tromsø

• Departure Point : Scandic Ishavhotel
• Duration : 7 hours approx
• Includes : Lively and informative guides, a minibus ride into the Norwegian countryside, bonfire, a small meal, snacks, hot drinks, thermal suit, photographs taken by the guide, use of a tripod to mount your camera.

Something you’ll appreciate about this tour is that it is a small and intimate group. That means you’ll always have the 2 guides’ attention, and you can ask for help when it comes time to take photographs of those elusive lights.

Your tour minibus will collect you from the meeting point in Tromsø city center and drive you out into the surrounding countryside.

Because you’re within the Arctic Circle, the guides will provide special thermal suits for you to wear in order to prevent you from getting too cold as the night progresses.

Passing the star-lit mountains and fjords, you’ll leave behind the city’s light pollution and head to less populated, darker places in search of the clearest patches of sky.

Your guides will keep you entertained with Sami tales, funny stories, and even songs! Your guides are experts on both local geography and the Northern Lights.

By communicating with other Aurora hunters and keeping their eyes on the geomagnetic forecast, they can predict the most likely location to see the Earth’s most beautiful natural light display.

At some point, your guides will halt in a safe location to light a bonfire. Gathered around the dancing flames, you will have the opportunity to chat with your new-found friends while eating a small meal.

Hot drinks and snacks are provided as the night progresses, and the guides will take photographs with their professional camera.

At the end of the tour, the guides will share the pictures they have taken so you have a visual souvenir of the amazing sights you’ve witnessed.

6. Best Guided Tour: Northern Lights Minibus Chase From Tromsø

• Departure Point : Storgata 64, 9008 Tromsø, Hotel pickup (in city centre)
• Departure Time : 6 PM (but may be as late as 8 PM when nights are shorter during fall and spring)
• Duration : 6 to 10 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, minibus ride into the countryside, snowsuit, photographs, snacks, and hot chocolate.

If you want to be part of a small and cozy group of Aurora hunters, you’ll love this tour. With a maximum of 8 participants, you won’t have any problem getting to know your fellow passengers and the friendly guide.

You’ll also receive close attention when the time comes to photograph the Northern Lights for posterity.

After meeting in Tromsø city center, you’ll be driven through the countryside of Troms County. Enroot, you will be provided with a snowsuit to stop you from getting too cold during the night.

Once you’ve left the city lights behind, the sky will become clear of light pollution.

The experienced and professional guide will use geomagnetic forecasts, extensive local knowledge, and intuition to locate the best viewing spots.

You will stop at several points along the way to admire the fjords and Arctic landscape of the region. Weather permitting, you will leave the minibus to enjoy gathering around a bonfire.

Hot drinks and snacks will be provided. Your guide will tell you local folktales and impart her extensive knowledge of the area.

Don’t worry if your camera or smartphone can’t capture the magic in the sky. Once you’ve found the Aurora Borealis, your guide will take snaps of you in front of the light display with her professional camera.

At the end of the tour, you will be given any photographs she took of you.

7. Best Northern Lights Sailing: Northern Lights Sailing Trip From Tromsø

• Departure Point : Kirkegata 1, 9008 Tromsø
• Departure Time : Contact tour operator
• Duration : 3 hours
• Includes : Guided sailing tour, hot drinks, boots and thermal suit, tour photos

If what you really want is something a little different, this is the tour for you. You will board a catamaran for a 3 hour sailing tour. The best way to see them is from the water so that makes this tour perfect!

The captain is enthusiastic photographer who specialize in images of the Northern Lights. You’ll probably be happy to learn you’ll be part of a small and cozy group of adventurers.

You’ll get to know each other well by the end of the night. And to ensure you keep warm, heat packs and thermal suits are provided.

Your knowledgeable and experienced captain will consult the weather and geomagnetic forecasts to predict the best location from where you can view the Aurora.

Even if the hunt takes you into neighboring Finland, nothing will interfere with their determination to show you the lights.

Once you’ve arrived in a likely position to see a light show in the sky.

When the Northern Lights appear, your guides will take professional photographs of you in front of the lights and direct shots of the lights overhead.

All pictures captured during the tour will be emailed to you the next day. If you bring your own camera, you will be provided with a tripod for your use.

Norway Travel Guide

Norway is a land of sublime mountains, glacier-carved valleys, majestic fjords, sparkling waterfalls, and colorful villages.

It’s no surprise that many visitors come specially to admire the beautiful scenery. But Norway also boasts a rich cultural history that offers plenty for visitors to see and do.

What you personally plan to do in Norway is your choice. However, it is in your best interest to do the research before you go.

This guide was written to help prepare you for your journey to this fascinating land because we want you to have the best vacation possible.

Airports & Entry

It is possible to reach Oslo by ferry from Copenhagen or by train, bus, or car from Stockholm. However, most visitors to Norway come by airplane and land at Oslo Gardermoen Airport .

Rarely will you find so many facilities inside a transportation hub. The single terminal building at Oslo Airport is compact, quiet, clean, and offers adequate seating for waiting passengers.

The airport is open 24 hours, and that includes some food outlets. Economy passengers can purchase an airport lounge pass for additional comfort during a long stopover.

The airport designers considered all your possible needs. Across from Gate A4, you will find an ecumenical chapel for your religious needs. Between Gates C5 and C6, there is a designated Work Zone for passengers who need individual desks and power outlets to work during their stay.

The free Wi-Fi is accessed by connecting to the “AIRPORT” network and selecting “free” on the login page. If you have kids, there are multiple Children’s Play Areas throughout the terminal. Strollers are available for your use, and there are specific Breastfeeding Corners for young babies.

20 restaurants and a range of shops are found throughout the terminal, including a pharmacy for your medical needs and the largest duty-free shop in Europe.

The Information Desk is found in the Arrivals Area. And if you really want to spoil yourself and have the time to spare, the airport spa and saloon offers express 20-minute pedicures and manicures for both women and men.

The airport is 29 miles from Oslo city center, but the train station offers convenient express services into the city that take only 20 minutes with trains every 10 minutes.

You can also take trains directly from the airport station to other parts of the country. 70% of airport passengers utilize public transport rather than hiring a car or jumping in a taxi.

When you book your hotel room, ask about airport shuttle services. Many offer a courtesy shuttle service for guests. If you prefer to drive yourself from the airport, 5 major car rental companies have desks in the Arrivals Hall near the railway station.

The airport is only 3.7 miles from European Route E6 to go north or south and 1.2 miles from E16 to go east or west.

There are also regular coach services between the airport and Oslo city center. Outside the Arrivals Hall is a taxi rank. Stop at the Taxi Information Desk in the Arrivals Hall first so they can explain the fixed rates.

Planning Tips

With so many beautiful things to see and interesting things to do in Norway, I’m sure you’ll have a great time. And to help you do just that, here are 5 tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Tip #1: If you want to see the waterfalls, go in spring or summer

It snows a lot during winter in Norway. Atop the mountains and high places, the snow doesn’t begin to melt until spring. That means that through the spring and into summer, a vast amount of meltwater rushes down from those high places creating seasonal waterfalls throughout the nation, especially alongside some of the fjords.

Tip #2: Check out the SolarHam website

If you’re enthusiastic about seeing the Northern Lights, check out the SolarHam website . There you’ll find a 3-day geomagnetic forecast and a satellite map that shows the current position of the Aurora Borealis . That’s essential information for seeking the best time and place to view this amazing natural phenomenon.

It’s easiest to see the Northern Lights from September through March, when the nights are at their darkest, but avoid new moons. You won’t see the Northern Lights in Northern Norway in summer because the nights are far too short.

Tip #3: Take your time to enjoy all the attractions of Norway

Norway is an amazing country, with a long and interesting history and stunning scenery. Even if your only intention is to cruise on the fjords or to see the Northern Lights, there are other attractions that you would enjoy.

It would be a shame to visit Norway and miss seeing some of the world-famous art in Oslo, the winding railroad between Bergen and Oslo, or the Viking ships that have survived over 1,200 years.

Tip #4: Book in advance

Norway is a small country with a vast number of visitors. Don’t miss out on essential train tickets, the better hotel rooms, or specific tours you really want to take. Book in advance to ensure you get what you want before it’s fully booked.

Many tours offer refunds within a certain time frame, so check when you book. It is possible you will take little risk when booking your tour if you can simply cancel it 24 hours before it begins should you change your mind.

Tip #5: Plan road journeys in advance and with great care

The roads in Norway aren’t like the roads in other countries. With 24-hours darkness during midwinter in the far north, ice on the higher roads, winding mountain routes, and loose moose on the road, delays are always possible. When planning a long road journey, consider local conditions.

Research the route and the specific conditions of the road at the time of year when you visit. Also, keep your eye on the weather forecast for that period.

Remember that some inland, northern, and high ground roads are regularly blocked by high snowfall during winter. Check road reports regularly and allow time for unexpected delays in your journey.

Restaurants & Eating Out

Because this small nation possesses so much coastline with so many fjords, a lot of traditional dishes focus on seafood. Also, with long, dark winters, preservation was especially important in the pre-refrigeration era.

That means that pickled, dried, and salted fish can be found on traditional menus in every region.

Pickled herring is a favorite at breakfast buffets. It is often eaten on rye bread and dressed in a variety of sauces. Lutefisk is another form of preserved fish. A common variety of lutefisk is dried cod cured using a lye solution. Lutefisk is a somewhat acquired taste.

Smoked or cured salmon is found in most Norwegian restaurants or hotel buffets. And an everyday meal in Norway is fiskeboller, which is balls of white fish blended with flour, eggs, and milk.

Reindeer is a popular meat in Norway, and you’ll find it on the menu in many restaurants. It may come in the form of fillets, meatballs, or sausages. If you’ve eaten venison, you’ll probably expect it to have a gamey, beef-like taste, but it doesn’t.

It’s more tender than venison, has a milder but salty taste, and comes with a slight metallic tang. Reindeer heart is a traditional delicacy.

You may see a lot of “hotdogs” around Norway. They probably aren’t. The Norwegians have their own version of hotdogs called pølse, which are made using a different process. You’ll often find pølse wrapped in bacon and served in a bread bun much like a hotdog. Sometimes pølse are made from reindeer meat.

A thin potato pancake called lefse is popular at breakfast time. It is made from potato, eggs, butter, and sugar, and it’s served with cinnamon or jam.

You’ll often find lefse in cafes and coffee shops. Another item popular on the breakfast table is brunost, or brown cheese. It is made using a different process to other cheeses and is often served in thin slivers atop toast.

If you linger for dessert, you’ll love Norwegian waffles. They are heart-shaped, thinner than Belgian waffles, and are topped with jam or brunost.

Or perhaps you’d prefer a little fruit. In summer, berries are abundant across Norway. The most sought after is cloudberry.

Cloudberry isn’t grown commercially, so it must be foraged from the wilderness before it can be served in restaurants and cafes around Oslo.

Nightlife & Entertainment

With a population descended from Vikings, it’s no surprise to discover that the nightlife in Norway is wild. In every region, you’ll find electrifying nightclubs in the larger settlements and crowded bars everywhere.

The 4 places most identified with an active club scene and nightlife are Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø, and Stavanger.

Because Oslo is the capital, the most populous city, hosts the main university, and is the location of many of the main tourist attractions, most of the nightclubs are found there.

Lawo is a popular venue for the younger set in the nation’s capital, where the DJs spin the popular club hits. There the youth of Norway dance until they drop and drink themselves toward Valhalla. A more mature but still lively venue is Café Mono.

There you can listen to live music from a wide range of musical styles while you enjoy food and drink.

To the west, Bergen boasts a buzzing nightlife. Vaskeriet is a venue with a somewhat schizophrenic personality. Before 10 pm, it is a quiet cocktail bar, but after that, it turns into an infamous local hotspot with frequent themed events and guest DJs.

In the north, the Bardus Bar in Tromsø attempts to emulate the bistros of Southern Europe but with a strong hint of Norwegian culture and tradition.

It is especially renowned for its fine dining and lively atmosphere. And over in Stavanger, the Bar Bache is a great place to socialize through the long, long winter nights with relatively affordable drinks.

Getting Around

How you decide to get around Norway largely depends upon your timescale, your budget, and what you want to see.

If you want to go places fast, domestic flights are your best option. There are 52 public airports in Norway, an astounding number for a nation with only 5 million citizens.

SAS Scandinavian Airlines operates regular services to larger towns throughout the country. Some of the local airlines offer special pass tickets for travelers who intend to fly frequently within Norway for a specific period.

However, if you fly, you will miss a lot of spectacular scenery, and it may be more expensive than other means of transport.

Norway has a well-developed railway network with more than 1,900 miles of tracks. Many routes pass through beautiful valleys, curve around mountains, and offer panoramic views of the valleys and fjords.

The Bergen Railway is especially popular with tourists, running between Bergen and Oslo across Europe’s highest mountain plateau. Trains are slower than airplanes, but you will see much more, and they are generally more affordable than other means of transport.

If you want complete freedom, and you want to see every nook and cranny Norway has to offer, then hiring a car is your best option.

You will be able to drive along the famous National Travel Routes and stop anywhere you wish for photo opportunities and to enjoy local attractions. However, there are two problems with hiring a car in Norway.

First, navigating winding mountain roads, with blind corners, icy conditions, and in the dark is not for everybody. Second, car hire is expensive in Norway, so you’ll probably find the train cheaper.

If you decide to hire a car, please remember that the laws and conditions are different in Norway. In particular:

• Headlights must be on 24/7 and seatbelts must be worn
• You must not use your cellphone by hand while driving
• Check whether you’re getting an automatic or manual transmission when you book
• There are lots of speed cameras, and the fines are high
• Norway has super strict DUI laws — don’t drink and drive
• Moose on the road are inevitable
• Gas stations are widely spaced

Accommodations

Every year, tourists flock to Norway to visit its unique cultural and natural attractions, which means there is a wide range of hotels and other places to stay.

However, the attractions are often far apart from each other, requiring a long journey between each. For this reason, when planning a visit to Norway, think carefully about where you need to stay and for how long.

Don’t plan to spend every night of a two-week vacation in Oslo, because you’ll miss out on many natural attractions.

Similarly, don’t plan to spend every night in a hotel in the Arctic north, because you’ll miss out on the many historical and cultural attractions in the south of the country. Plan ahead and book accommodation near each place you plan to visit.

When you’ve chosen where and when you want to stay, you still must choose what kind of accommodation. The many hotels and hostels can be broken into three kinds: convenient, historic, and scenic.

Convenient hotels are those close to the attraction you want to visit and the transport hub—airport, train station, or main road.

You can find many convenient yet relatively affordable hotels throughout the country. Sadly, few will be truly cheap. Norway is an expensive country.

An example of convenient yet affordable accommodation is Hostel St. Svithun in Stavanger , which is a basic 2-star budget hotel in a central location of this popular destination in Northern Norway.

Around Norway, you will find interesting historical hotels that originally served a completely different function, like converted boathouses and farmhouses.

A particularly fascinating hotel is Oscarsborg Castle near Oslo. This fortress was in military service for 350 years until the end of the Cold War and now serves as a resort island.

If you love photo opportunities or waking to a glorious sunrise over a fjord or sunset over a harbor, a scenic hotel is for you. A great example is the modern Clarion Hotel The Edge in Tromsø that overlooks Tromsø Sound and the Arctic Cathedral.

Although the northernmost part of the nation falls within the Arctic Circle, Norway isn’t as cold as you’d expect. In fact, the name “Norway” means “the way north”.

Norway earned its name because its northern coastline is largely free from ice through winter, making it the easiest route north during the coldest months. The Gulf Stream keeps the coastline of Northern Norway warmer than other places at the same latitude.

However, there are vast variations between the different regions of Norway. Generally, the coast receives mild winters, while the inland areas experience cold winters with lots of snow but relatively hot and dry summers.

The mountainous regions remain much colder than other areas throughout the year. The south is considered the most beautiful in summer, but the fjords in spring, when melting ice leads to spectacular waterfalls.

The far north, which falls within the Arctic Circle, experiences 24-hour darkness during midwinter and 24-hour daylight during midsummer. Tromsø is the largest Norwegian town within the Arctic Circle.

Because of the extreme differences in climate from region to region within Norway, it is essential that you research the weather forecast for your specific destinations before you make plans. If you want to see the Northern Lights, 24-hours of darkness is ideal.

But if you want to sightsee, not so much. As a guideline, during summer the average daily high and low are 55 0 F and 46 0 F. In winter, 35 0 F and 27 0 F.

Maybe you think these temperatures are too cold for outdoor fun, but the Norwegians have a famous saying: “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær!” There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes. Bear that in mind while packing for your vacation.

Attractions

Most visitors to Norway come to explore the stunning landscape, famous for its many fjords, snow-capped mountains, and scenic waterfalls.

The coastline of Northern Norway borders the Arctic Sea, and those interested in wildlife can observe creatures adapted to the extreme cold of the far north. The north is also a great place to observe the famous Northern Lights, especially during winter months.

If you are particularly interested in the picturesque scenery of the Norwegian landscape, the fjords and coastline to the west and the mountains of Southern Norway are served by a series of 18 highways designated as National Tourist Routes.

1,150 miles of Norway’s rural roads have been upgraded and their facilities improved to ensure that they are especially tourist-friendly. So, if you’re hiring a car, get your camera ready and check out the National Tourist Routes.

If you’re interested in Norwegian culture and history, then Oslo has it all, and the best area to visit is the Bygdøy Peninsula.

On this tiny peninsula in the west of Oslo, you’ll find the most interesting cultural attractions in the city. Top on my list is the Viking Ship Museum , where you’ll find no less than 3 genuine Viking ships recovered from 9 th -century burial mounds.

Many visitors will be drawn to the spectacular exhibits at the Norwegian Maritime Museum, which boasts several relatively modern ship exhibits along with relocated buildings and a collection of 40 oil paintings relating to Norway’s long relationship with the sea.

Other museums found on the peninsula include the Fram Museum of Polar Exploration, the Kon-Tiki Museum, the Norwegian Folk Museum , and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History.

Those more drawn to art and architecture should look east toward central Oslo and visit the iconic Oslo Opera House.

This masterpiece of modern architecture not only houses the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet plus the National Opera Theater, but it also boasts a significant modern art collection, including the famous floating steel and glass sculpture She Lies .

In the same area, you will find the Munch Museum. There are few people in the western world who would not recognize Edvard Munch’s The Scream , and here is where you can see it in person along with other examples of the artist’s work.

Tour Guides

The Northern Lights 7-Hour Tour From Tromsø is our Editor's Choice for the best Northern Lights Tours In Norway with its combination of tour guides, sites seen and value.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

Home  -  Tours  -  Northern Lights Holidays

Northern Lights Holidays

Northern lights holidays 2024 & 2025.

Our Northern Lights holidays are meticulously planned to enhance your experience of the North Norway’s stunning scenery and nature. With a maximum of 8 guests you will get that personal attention that larger group trips cannot provide. Staying in modern, cosy hotel accommodation and enjoying local cuisine our award-winning guides will lead you on scenic daytime excursions through picturesque Arctic landscapes and Aurora Chasing each night. 

Whether you’re seeking a 3-night escape or a week-long Bucket List adventure, we promise a seamless blend of education, exploration, and relaxation.

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2024 & 2025 Northern Lights Holidays

October 5-night Northern Lights Holiday

October Half Term Family 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

October/November Half Term Family 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

November 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

November 3-night Northern Lights Holiday

December 5-night Northern Lights Holiday

December 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

New Year Northern Lights Holiday 2025

January 5-night Northern Lights Holiday

March Spring Equinox 5-night Northern Lights Holiday

March Spring Equinox 4-night Northern Lights Holiday

March 5-night northern lights holiday.

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Northern Lights Cruises in Norway

Experience the fjords and aurora borealis on a northern lights cruise in Norway, with a winter tour package including all your cruise reservations, accommodations and land travel.

Sail on a northern lights cruise in Norway

Experience an amazing array of natural wonders in winter on a Havila or Hurtigruten  northern lights cruise in Norway arranged by the Norwegian travel experts at Nordic Visitor. With the short winter daylight hours and the wide open, starlit skies over the ocean, wintertime astronomy voyages in Norway offer a wonderful chance to see the northern lights as your ship sails gently into the night .

Nordic Visitor specialises in tailor-made holidays in Norway that include overnights on a Havila or Hurtigruten cruise line.  Our Norway tour packages are nearly all-inclusive , meaning that we handle all of your cruise reservations, accommodations both at sea and on land as well as any travel via train.

Ready to experience some jaw-dropping scenery and natural phenomena? Keep browsing below for our suggestions of tour packages that include northern lights cruises in Norway.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts

Sail under the northern lights in Norway

Hop on a cruise in Norway for incredible winter fjord scenery, fun shore excursions and great chances to see the aurora borealis twinkling overhead.

Best of Northern Norway Classic - 71° North Cape

Northern lights & cruise, northern lights by train and cruise, tromsø, flåm & the fjords, norway in a nutshell® & best of northern norway classic, fjord cruise, snowhotel & northern lights, other northern lights breaks in norway.

These short breaks are ideal in addition to cruise tours, especially for travellers who wish to experience dogsledding, snowmobiling and other snow adventures.

Norway in a Nutshell® & Northern Lights Express

Fjords & tromsø, northern lights norway classic, northern lights norway express, northern lights & whale watching, go aurora spotting in other destinations.

Chase the northern lights on a tour in other arctic destinations, including northern Scandinavia, Iceland and Greenland.

Iceland Full Circle Classic - Winter

South iceland at leisure - winter, northern lights circle tour, iceland's famous ring road.

Things to do on a cruise in Norway

A Havila or Hurtigruten cruise calls at 34 ports of call on its route between Bergen and Kirkenes. So you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained during the daytime before prime northern lights viewing hours at night. With a cruise holiday along the fjord-studded Norwegian coast you can choose from numerous guided shore excursions, such as short husky safaris and fishing village tours.

You can also explore charming coastal cities like Ålesund on your own during port calls or simply relax and enjoy the comfortable amenities on board your cruise ship.

• First time on a Hurtigruten cruise? Have no fear!  Get our beginner's tips here
• Discover the  best cruise journeys in Norway  to inspire you

Want to experience more fjords on your northern lights cruise in Norway? We recommend taking a Norway in a Nutshell® train journey from Oslo to the colourful city of Bergen , the southernmost port. This journey includes a ride on a famous Flåm Railway , with breathtaking mountain and fjord views on the way to the west coast.

Want to stay in an ice hotel during your Norway cruise holiday? Nordic Visitor can tailor your Norway cruise itinerary to include a stay at the Snow Hotel in Kirkenes , Hurtigruten and Havila's northern hub.

When to see the northern lights in Norway

The winter season in Norway is the best time to view the northern lights . Because nighttime darkness is required for seeing this dazzling natural light show, you should visit Norway between October and March for optimal chances of aurora borealis sightings. Coincidentally, travelling outside of the busy summer season may also result in better cruise deals!

Where to see the northern lights in Norway

The further north you go in the northern hemisphere, the better for seeing the northern lights. Because the aurora borealis are magnetically drawn towards the north pole, the areas north of the Arctic Circle are best for northern lights viewing.

Some of the ports of call in Norway’s arctic region include the Lofoten Islands , Tromsø and North Cape (Nordkapp) - all places that are located within the so-called “northern lights belt”, an area known to have more auroral frequency and intensity.

If you wish to experience snow activities, such as dog sledding, it’s best to plan your winter northern lights break in Norway between December to April. Nordic Visitor can assist in your trip planning and tailor a tour package to your interests.

— NORWAY CRUISE FACTS

Quick facts about hurtigruten & havila.

• Hurtigruten was founded in 1893 to transport cargo, mail and passengers between coastal towns
• Launched in 2021, the Havila fleet has won awards for its sustainability-focused technology
• Havila and Hurtigruten ships stop at 34 ports along this beautiful and historic route
• These cruise liners are considered leaders in the “slow travel” movement

Norway Cruise Travel Experts

As a trusted travel agency with experienced staff throughout the Nordic region, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Norway. What's more, we're certified Havila and Hurtigruten agents. This means we have the most up-to-date information regarding availability of cruises and cabin types.

Nordic Visitor works only with licensed, reputable travel partners that meet our high standards. Plus, Havila and Hurtigruten have the same strict expectations for their certified agents. To ensure the highest quality for our guests, we maintain close connections with them and try their cruise services ourselves.

We go beyond booking cruise services in Norway – we also make all your travel arrangements on land, including accommodation and travel by train and rental car. Our nearly all-inclusive itineraries – that can be customised to your needs – include Norway's must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights that are hand-picked by our own staff.

Different ways you can experience Norway

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Norway below.

Fjord Cruise & Train

Self-drive tours, guided small group, northern lights, lofoten islands, hurtigruten cruises, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Glad that we chose Nordic Visitor

Overall it was an amazing journey, we have enjoyed every step of it. We thank you for flawless instructions and all useful information which made our trip a convenient one as well. Thanks a lot for all your efforts. We are glad that we have chosen Nordic Visitor for this trip and surely will recommend to our friends and family.

Wonderful experience

Our experience in Norway was wonderful. Our hotels were centrally located, clean and offered great breakfasts to start each day. Our transportation connections couldn't have gone any smoother and the scenery from the train into Flåm and boat through the fiords was spectacular! All three of us felt this was an amazing experience.

I couldn't have planned a better trip to Norway on my own. We loved the structure and assurance of the itinerary while having the flexibility to explore on our own. Travelling in January, Nordic Visitor's emergency number gave us peace of mind in case of bad weather. The hotels were excellent and the locations were very convenient to public transportation and places we wanted to visit. The excursions were fantastic. Want a stress-free adventure? Let Nordic Visitor lead the way.

We had an amazing time in Norway!

We had an amazing time in Norway! The people could not have been friendlier, the vistas were breathtaking, and our Nordic Visitor helper, Irja, went above and beyond to help us plan our stay and even changed some reservations for us at the last minute when I realised that I had made a mistake. We would absolutely come back to Norway with Nordic Visitor again.

The trip was perfect

I took my mum to Norway for her 60th birthday in the hopes of seeing the northern lights. The trip planned for us by Nordic Visitor was perfect. We were glad of the days we got to spend exploring Tromsø and the excursions that were included allowed us to make some truly amazing memories. The snowmobile tour was the highlight of the trip, truly thrilling and topped off by seeing the lights as we arrived back to the camp. All the people who led our excursions were friendly and really knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend the Nordic Visitor service as a way to pack a lot of unforgettable experiences into a short time.

The perfect honeymoon

We couldn't have asked for a better honeymoon! We knew we wanted to visit Norway for our honeymoon but were overwhelmed with planning the trip on our own. Finding Nordic Visitor and working with Jemima was a godsend! Jemima helped plan us the perfect honeymoon with ease. Our trip was the perfect amount of planned activities and downtime/time to explore at our leisure. Travelling around Norway was a breeze with the help of Nordic Visitor and we cannot recommend the tours Nordic Visitor has to offer enough. We hope to use Nordic Visitor again on our next European excursion! Each hotel we stayed in was comfortable and spacious. All hotels had great breakfast buffets and were all centrally located in the areas we were visiting. We added a food and cultural tour in Bergen which was great! The food was delicious and our guide was knowledgeable and friendly! We enjoyed our time wandering the streets of Bergen and learning about the history and what everyday life is like. All the Northern Lights tours were fantastic! All the guides were knowledgeable and fun to talk with. Our airport transfer in Bergen was very easy and took a lot of stress off of us after a delayed flight.

Nordic Visitor did a great job with set up for accommodation and travel within the country. Tour guides were friendly, helpful and informative. I liked the way it was set up to visit popular destinations/excursions but also allowed time to explore on your own.

One of the best experiences we have had!

Absolutely outstanding. The tour and excursion organisation was perfect, seamlessly executed. The agent, Sindre, very professional in recommending and adapting the tour to our needs. One of the best family travel experiences we have had!

I would definitely use Nordic Visitor again

It was very easy to book via Nordic Visitor, the website is easy to use and communication with my appointed rep was excellent. They planned everything, the accommodation was beautiful, easy location for the other entertainment, all documents were sent to me in good time. I would definitely use Nordic Visitor again to book my future tours.

A true winter wonderland!

This was absolutely the trip of a lifetime. We enjoyed seeing a true winter wonderland! The combination of beautiful fjord views from the boat, chasing the northern lights, dog sledding, the Snow Hotel, so many different experiences - there were a lot of beautiful moments to take in!

Absolutely superb hotels were selected. The itinerary was very clearly laid out and easily understood. Every excursion or extra activity was expecting us. We had no issues with the vouchers. We definitely feel we experienced the best of Tromsø. Great communication when excursions were cancelled because of weather conditions. Nordic Visitor was able to reschedule us on a different excursion quickly and easily. Local tours selected by Nordic Visitor were excellent, well run and definitely highlights of the trip.

Perfectly planned

The tour was well organised. Everything was perfectly planned, from the tours to the transfers to the hotels. Suggestions on what to do/see/eat were also brilliant. The detailed guide made it very easy to find out where to go and how. The hotels were conveniently located in the city centre and close to transport links. The optional tours suggested were also perfect.

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Norway adventure.

Norway’s second largest city with a population of about 270,000, Bergen is known as the...

 At 350 kilometres (217 miles) above the Arctic Circle, it’s no wonder Tromsø is often called...

Flåm Railway

Known as one of the most beautiful railways in the world, the journey on the Flåm Railway...

What to bring

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all type..

What’s the weather like in Norway? You just might ..

Norwegian Food

Find out more about Norwegian delicacies

Time & Daylight

When to expect sunrises, sunsets, northern lights ..

Our Services

Whether you travel by train, cruise ship or car in your Nordic Visitor package, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

Book With Confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
• Enjoy personal service from Norway travel experts.
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Do you have a question about our Norway tours? Or maybe you want to customise a travel package. Whatever you need, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog posts you might like

7 best cruise journeys in norway, 10 things to do in norway in winter, a little something about the northern lights, first hurtigruten cruise tips for your maiden voyage.

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Take a 10-Day Guided Tour of Finland & Norway With the Northern Lights Shimmering Overhead

See the Northern Lights from Scandinavia's breathtaking mountain tops on this 10-day tour of Helsinki, Alta and Oslo. Journey through Finnish Lapland—250km above the Arctic Circle to Ivalo, the Gateway to the North. From the comfort of your cozy cabin in Aurora Village, gaze out through the glass roof as the lights of the aurora borealis dance above. Cross the Finnish-Norwegian border to North Cape and sample caviar in Europe’s northernmost point, before a once in lifetime visit to a working husky farm. Here you will meet the Arctic dog sled racing Alta huskies—a world famous champion dog sledding team, before a stop in Tromsø where the Indigenous Sami community invite you to help feed their reindeer herd. The vacation draws to a close on the scenic, and once Viking, shores of the Oslofjord.

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Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

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You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Aurora Tracks See Northern Lights

Most Popular Tours to NORWAY Northern Lights (2024-2025)

If you’re planning to visit Norway, joining a tour is an easy and stress-free way to help you see the aurora borealis. In this guide, we share some of the most popular short and long tours to Norway northern lights that you can book for 2024-2025.

We know everyone has their own travel preferences and budget, so in this article we’ve brought together a variety of Norway northern lights tours. Whether you are looking for a short one-night excursion, or 3-4 day tour as part of your self-planned vacation, or a luxury tour package in Norway, there is likely to be something here for you.

Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, but it does represent the most popular northern lights in Norway tour options available today. After you’ve finished up here, make sure to have a look at our article on the best cruises for visiting Norway northern lights – aurora cruises are huge in Norway and there are plenty to choose from.

But for now, let’s dive into some of the most popular Northern Lights in Norway tour options.

One-Night Tours to Norway Northern Lights

In this section we bring together the most popular one-night tours to northern lights in Norway. Booking into a one-night Norway tour of northern lights is the cheapest way to enjoy an aurora tour, but also the riskiest as you are rolling your chances for seeing the aurora into one-night; if there is cloud cover, your tour experience may be a downer. Having said that, even if you don’t see the lights you will still have the opportunity to enjoy a trip into the Norwegian countryside, experience some local culture, food and drink, and chat with the locals.

Northern Lights Minibus Chase

• Where:  Tromsø, Norway
• Tour Provider:  Pukka Travels https://www.pukkatravels.com/
• More Information:   https://www.pukkatravels.com/product/t/en-us/tours/northern-lights-minibus-chase
• Duration:  6-8 hours
• Price:  Starting at $180

Discover the beauty and splendor of the aurora borealis, from Tromsø, the heart of Norway.

Tromsø is a popular destination for viewing the northern lights. Every year, thousands of people make their way to the country in order to hunt for the elusive lights. For those who visit Tromsø during the wintertime, the best way to go on a hunt for the auroras is by taking a minibus into the Norwegian countryside. This popular 6 to 8-hour tour starts and finishes at the Pukka base camp, which is located in the heart of the Tromsø city center.

Itinerary Overview

The 6 to 8-hour tour starts at the Pukka base camp where you will meet your English-speaking tour guide, and prepare for your trip out into the Norwegian countryside. Throughout the length of your trip, the guide will take photos of all of the guests, and send you copies of them free of charge within 72 hours of the trip. Towards the end of the hunt for the elusive lights, the tour guide will light up a campfire, where you will be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy a warm meal and hot chocolate.

What’s Included

• English speaking guide
• Hot chocolate, tea, and coffee
• Arctic suit and boots
• Camera tripod access
• Free trip photos
• Access to base camp

Why It’s Popular

Although there are many great ways to hunt for the elusive Northern lights, Pukka tours aim to make it a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Thanks to their experienced English-speaking tour guides, you will spend the evening wandering through the Norwegian countryside headed towards the best destinations for viewing the natural phenomenon. No trip would be complete without a campfire side meal and a warm drink. Come and experience Norway, the way it was meant to be seen.

Aurora Dinner Cruise

• Where:  Tromsø, Norway
• Tour Provider:  Chasing Lights https://chasinglights.com/
• More Information:   https://chasinglights.com/tour/aurora-dinner-cruise/
• Duration:  3-4 hours
• Price:  Starting at $165

There is nothing more magical than a dinner cruise into the pristine waters of the Tromsø fjords under the starlit Norwegian skies.

There are many different unique and interesting ways to view the northern lights, but nothing beats a world-class dinner under the stars. This popular Aurora dinner cruise departs from Tromsø and makes its way into the darkness of the local fjords to give you some of the most panoramic views of the aurora borealis. The electric-powered boat, silently sails through the pristine waters, as you sit back and enjoy a delectable meal made from the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. While you enjoy your meal, the captain of the ship will keep his eye out for the elusive lights, and inform everyone when they are visible.

The ship will pick up guests from the Skarven, which is located along the shores of Tromsø. From there, it will sail out into the local fjords where dinner will be served soon after. The English-speaking guides will provide you with information about the surrounding countryside and the myths, legends, and lore that make Norway truly unique. The silent, electric boat will sail along as you enjoy a wonderful meal under the starlit skies. All the while, you can rest assured that both the captain and the tour guides will keep their eyes open for the elusive northern lights.

• English-speaking tour guide
• Hunt for the northern lights
• Wonderful atmosphere
• Views of the surrounding fjords

For many, the ideal evening is dinner and a movie. What better movie, than a nature film showcasing the starlit skies and the pristine waters of the fjords around Tromsø? Create memories that will last a lifetime, as you enjoy a wonderful Scandinavian meal aboard an electric ship as it makes its way through fjords that were carved out of the land by centuries of glacial melt.

3-Night Tours to Norway Northern Lights

In this section we share a couple of popular 3 night tours of the Norwegian northern lights. Although pricier, they offer a more immersive experience and a better chance of seeing the lights than a one-night excursion. They are a great option if you want to include a short tour into your self-planned holiday, or want a short break from the UK or mainland Europe for a few days.

Autumn Aurora in Northern Norway

• Tour Provider:  Baltic Travel Company https://www.baltictravelcompany.com/  
• More Information:   https://www.baltictravelcompany.com/packages/autumn-aurora-in-northern-norway/
• Duration:  4 Days / 3 Nights
• Price:  Starting at $1,130

Departing from London UK, spend 3 nights enjoying the memorable Norwegian countryside surrounding the beautiful historic city of Tromsø.

Tromsø is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world who are seeking expeditions into the Arctic. The city is home to one of the largest universities in Norway, and it is nestled comfortably between the ancient fjords that were carved out by countless centuries of glacial melt. For those seeking to view the northern lights, Tromsø is the perfect destination to hunt for the natural phenomenon. This popular 4-day, 3-night tour of Tromsø, provides you with many opportunities to seek out the elusive lights.

After your arrival in Tromsø, you will be picked up at the airport and taken to the local hotel, where you are free to spend your first day and Norway exploring the historic city and look for the northern lights on your own. The following morning, you will be treated to breakfast in the hotel and will have the entire day to wander through the city to visit many of the popular destinations located within its borders. But you will want to be back to your hotel by nightfall because that is when the experienced guides show up to take you to some of the best locations surrounding Tromsø to view the northern lights.

On your third day in Tromsø, there are countless excursions to keep you busy. Not only can you go cycling along the Blue Harbor, but you can also take a cruise through the fjords, or go on a dog sledding adventure through the countryside. Sign up for a dinner cruise on your third night, before returning to the hotel for your final evening in Norway. After eating breakfast, you will still have some time to view several popular attractions around Tromsø before the shuttle takes you back to the airport.

• Return flight to London Gatwick
• Airport shuttles
• 3 nights’ accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Northern lights chase

The huge drawcard for this tour is that it departs from London, and return flights are included. If you live in the UK and want a short break, that’s really tough to beat. Over the course of your 4 day stay, you will have plenty of opportunities to catch the northern lights as they shimmer through the Arctic skies. During the daytime, go on excursions through the countryside or even visit the reindeer farms on the outskirts of town. Considering all the inclusions, for the price tag, that’s great value.

Northern Lights & Arctic Resort

• Tour Provider:  Arctic Holiday https://www.arcticholiday.co.uk/
• More Information:   https://www.arcticholiday.co.uk/tours/northern-lights-arctic-resort/
• Price:  Starting at $1390

Stay in one of the most popular resorts in Tromsø, where you will have the opportunity to view the splendor of the Norwegian fjords and northern lights from the comfort of your room.

Over the course of your 3-night stay in Norway, you will have plenty of opportunities to hunt out and find the elusive auroras. Your first night will be spent in the historic city of Tromsø, which is also known as the gateway to the Arctic. From there, you will be transferred to one of the most popular Arctic resorts that is located within the picturesque Norwegian fjords. From there, not only will you have plenty of opportunities to view the northern lights, but you will find a number of excellent excursions into the Norwegian countryside.

After you arrive in Norway, you will be picked up by shuttle service and taken to a four-star hotel located in the heart of Tromsø. You’ll have the entire day to yourself, and even spend the evening exploring the historic city. If you want to see the area from above, a cable car will take you up to a popular local vantage point.

After enjoying a breakfast buffet, you’ll be transferred to a mountain resort that is located a mere 100 miles away from Tromsø. Here, you can enjoy local cuisines, or simply relax in the sauna, far away from the light pollution created by the city. On your first night in the resort, you will head out on a Norway northern lights chase, where you will have the opportunity to seek out the elusive lights in the arctic skies.

Spend the rest of your time choosing between a wide variety of available excursions including snowmobiling, dog sledding, reindeer sledding, and much more. You will be able to enjoy breakfast each morning and have ample time to hunt for the elusive lights at night time. On the day of your departure, you can enjoy a final breakfast before being transferred back to the airport in Tromsø for your flight home.

• Return flights from London airports
• 1-night stay in Tromsø
• 2-nights stay at Arctic resort
• Breakfast every morning
• 2 dinners at the resort
• Lots of activities
• Arctic gear

Spend most of your time at a beautiful Arctic resort, where there are plenty of excursions out into the surrounding Norwegian countryside, up through the mountains, and along the fjords. You will have opportunities to go on dog sledding adventures, and even learn all about the indigenous Sami. Don’t forget, that no trip to Tromsø would be complete without viewing the phantom lights, all from the comfort of a mountainside hot tub.

4-Night Tours to Norway Northern Lights

The following two tours are some of the more popular longer options for seeing the Northern Lights. They are also some of the more luxurious offerings, reflected in the higher price tag. As well as seeing the aurora borealis, they give travelers the opportunity to experience other aspects of the Norwegian landscape and activities such as dogsledding and skiing.

Chasing the Northern Lights in Norway

• Where:  Lofoten, Norway
• Tour Provider:  Agate Travel https://www.agatetravel.com/
• More Information:   https://www.agatetravel.com/norway/northern-light-trip.html
• Duration:  5 Days / 4 Nights
• Price:  Starting at $3,429

See Norway as you have never seen it before on this trip from Lofoten to Tromsø, including accommodations, plenty of food, and more excursions than you could ever dream of.

This popular chasing the northern lights tour starts off in Lofoten and heads to Tromsø via Svolvær. It is a private tour that is both flexible and customizable. You will have an English-speaking tour guide and driver throughout the entire length of the trip and stay in some of the best hotels in the region. You will even have a large selection of cuisines to choose from, including local as well as Western-style meals.

You will start your trip in Lofoten before being transferred to Svolvær. After you check into your hotel, you will find that there are plenty of things to do in and around the city. From the pristine blue seas to the crystal-clear skies and densely populated forest, there is a little bit of something for everyone in the surrounding Norwegian countryside. Don’t forget to get back to your hotel in time for your guided northern light tour. When you wake up the following morning, you’ll have breakfast in the hotel and have the entire day to yourself to explore all that Svolvær has to offer.

From Svolvær, you will fly all the way to Tromsø where you will be able to enjoy the aurora borealis even more. After arriving at the hotel in Tromsø, you will have the rest of the day to explore the historic Arctic city. Once the sun has set, it is time to meet up with the rest of the guests as you head out into the countryside to hunt for the elusive lights. The following day, you will be able to explore Tromsø and the surrounding countryside before heading over to Camp Tamok.

• Flights between Svolvær and Tromsø
• Accommodations
• Breakfast Each Morning
• Northern lights tour
• Dog Sledding Excursion
• Travel Guide

Enjoy everything that Norway has to offer, as you spend your first day in Svolvær before flying to Tromsø for the remainder of your trip. The flight between the cities is included in the price. You will be able to enjoy breakfast every single morning, and there will be plenty of other excellent meals included on your trip. During the daytime, take a sledding excursion into the Norwegian countryside, and at night go on hunts for the elusive natural phenomena.

Northern Lights Stay at Lyngen Lodge

• Where: Lyngen Alps, Norway
• Tour Provider:  50 Degrees North https://www.fiftydegreesnorth.com/
• More Information:   https://www.fiftydegreesnorth.com/eu/tour/northern-lights-stay-at-lyngen-lodge
• Price:  Starting at $3,850

Why spend your time in Norway in the historic town of Tromsø, when you can spend your trip in the majestic Lyngen Alps?

A mere 100 miles outside of Tromsø, is a traditional Norwegian Lodge situated within the Lyngen Alps. The Lodge itself is located along the shores of a fjord that was carved out by centuries of glacial melt. It is the perfect destination for those who want a little bit of peace and quiet as they relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Norwegian countryside. See the elusive Northern lights in style, as you relax in this beautiful timber lodge.

The moment you arrive in Tromsø, you will be transferred straight to the majestic Lyngen Lodge, which is nestled comfortably in a forest clearing along the shorelines of the ancient fjord. With the towering Lyngen Alps in the background, you will find that this destination is truly unique. After your arrival, you can spend the afternoon checking out the local sites, and even sign up for a number of different excursions. Don’t forget that dinner will be served at 7:30, after which there will be a northern lights presentation.

After enjoying your breakfast each morning, you can head out into the Norwegian countryside for any number of excellent activities. One of the most popular activities is to go dog sledding. You will be driven to the beautiful Reisa Valley, where you will meet up with a dogsledder, who will outfit you and prepare you for the exciting adventure. On the following day, head out onto a frozen lake on a snowmobile, or visit one of the many excellent vantage points in the Lygen Alps. If you are feeling really adventurous, you can even go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing into the wilderness.

• 3-4 nights in a wilderness lodge
• Room and board in the Lyngen Alps
• Breakfast lunch and dinner included
• Shuttles to and from the airport
• Northern lights excursions
• Many countryside excursions
• Sauna and Jacuzzi

A week in the Lygen Alps will provide anyone with ample opportunity to rest and relax along the shores of a majestic fjord, as they wait for nightfall. After the sun has set, and the stars begin to shine, stare up at the Arctic sky as you begin your hunt for the elusive lights. Situated far enough outside of Tromsø, there is very little light pollution that could interfere with such a memorable experience. Here, nestled along the edges of the majestic Lygen Alps, one can truly get closer to nature.

Final Thoughts on Norway Tour Northern Lights

This wraps up our list of the most popular tours to Norway northern lights, taking bookings in 2022-2023 and beyond. This is not a comprehensive list, but should give you a few ideas for great northern lights tours in Norway that you can explore further.

Tours are a great option for travelling if you don’t like spending the time to organize your own vacation, or feel apprehensive about booking an international trip in a foreign country. Tours also offer you the expertise of a professional guide and access to local ‘secret’ viewing spots, that you would not otherwise experience on a self-planned or self-drive holiday. For solo travellers, they also give you the opportunity to meet other like-minded travellers.

Another reason that you might like to join a tour is if you are worried about not speaking the local language. Throughout Norway this isn’t something you should be concerned about however. Learning English in school is mandatory for Norwegians, so most locals can speak English fluently. This includes workers in shops, restaurants, buses, taxis, hotels, attractions, and anyone walking down the street. So, if this is the main thing steering you towards booking a tour rather than doing a self-planned vacation, then it’s a fear that you can happily drop.

Having said that, there are many reasons apart from language for why you might want to book a tour as we’ve just discussed. So, whether you are looking for a fun one-evening aurora-spotting tour, or a longer luxury trip, then a northern lights in Norway tour is certainly something to consider. Now that you’ve seen these tour options, you might want to take a look at these Norway northern lights cruises as well.

Happy travels!

This article was first published 14 August 2022, and updated 18 January 2024.

Related posts:

• Best Cruise to Northern Lights NORWAY in 2024-2025 (Comparison Guide)
• Where are the Best Cruises to Northern Lights in EUROPE? [2024-2025]
• Your Guide to Northern Lights Hotels NORWAY
• Where to See Northern Lights NORWAY | Complete Guide

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Northern Lights of Norway: Oslo to Tromsø

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Go on a memorable search for nature’s most fabulous phenomenon.

Norway’s a land of color: verdant fjords, slate mountains, stark glaciers, and the brushstroke brilliance of the aurora borealis—better known as the northern lights. On this tour, you’ll experience the country’s full palette. Trek from Oslo to the Arctic reaches of Tromsø, experiencing cosmopolitan and indigenous culture along the way. And of course, you’ll chase the lights by boat, bus, train, and on foot. Not ready to leave Norway’s staggering beauty behind? Extend your tour to explore tiny, fjord-flanked Flåm and the bustling waterfront city of Bergen.

Your tour package includes

• 8 nights in handpicked hotels
• 8 breakfasts
• 3 dinners with beer or wine
• 1 food tasting

Included highlights

• Northern lights excursions
• Nobel Peace Center
• Vigeland Sculpture Park
• Sámi village visit
• Narvik War Museum

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Oslo.

Welcome to Norway! Get to know your Tour Director and fellow travelers at tonight’s welcome dinner.

Meet up with your local guide this morning to discover Oslo—the vibrant Norwegian capital and a city that was first settled in the mid-10th century.

• Take a private tour of the Nobel Peace Center. One of the most-visited museums in all of Norway, it occupies a former railway station. Here, through a series of interactive and multimedia exhibits, you’ll learn about the laureates whose tremendous efforts helped make the world a better place.
• Walk through Vigeland Park and stroll among over 200 bronze, granite, and cast-iron sculptures created by artist Gustav Vigeland. Known as Frogner Park to the locals, this open-air exhibition doubles as the largest greenspace in all of Oslo.

Spend a free afternoon in Oslo or add an excursion.

Oslo Walking Food Tour

From $155 per person

Fly into Harstad/Narvik Airport this morning. Then, set off on a scenic drive to the town of Narvik (known as “the Land of the Northern Lights”), taking in stunning landscapes en route.

After settling into your hotel, enjoy an included dinner before making your way to a Sámi village to spend an evening immersed in their culture—and hopefully viewing the northern lights dance across the sky.

• Meet with a Sámi family and leader inside a lavvu (a traditional tent) and learn about their indigenous lifestyle in the Arctic north.
• Hear the history of reindeer herding and its importance to Sámi culture before taking part in a ceremony to honor the northern lights.
• Enjoy a cup of chaga tea—a holy drink, made from mushrooms that grow on the trunks of birch trees, said to give you energy and strength—followed by the singing of a traditional Sámi song.
• Head out into the darkness to search for the aurora borealis.

Please note: This excursion is weather-dependent and seeing the northern lights is not guaranteed.

Get to know the charming town of Narvik this morning. Perched on a peninsula between two minor fjords, this settlement of just over 14,000 people is one of the country’s best-kept secrets.

• Take a guided tour of the Narvik War Museum. Located in the center of town, it tells the story of the 62-day-long Battles of Narvik and the five ensuing years of Nazi occupation Norway endured during World War II.
• Board the Narvikfjellet cable car and climb to an altitude of 2,150+ feet above sea level, admiring sweeping views of the area during the four-minute ascent.

Spend a free evening in Narvik or add an excursion.

Northern Lights Train

From $205 per person

Head further into the Arctic Circle as you travel to the Tromsø Ice Domes in the Tamok Valley, where a guide will take you through the intricately built structures.

• Enjoy a welcome drink in an ice shot glass before watching a brief film about the process of designing the domes.
• Marvel at beautifully carved ice and snow sculptures as you learn about the snow’s impact on Arctic life.
• Spend time exploring the domes and the surrounding area at your own pace before sitting down for an included lunch at the dome complex.

Transfer to your hotel in Tromsø, a unique city spread across two islands and surrounded by impressive landscapes, and enjoy free time for the rest of the day.

Please note: Warm clothing, hat, scarves, and sturdy footwear are recommended for the visit to the Ice Domes. As they are constructed fully of ice, the Ice Domes are seasonal and open from mid-December to the end of March. When they aren’t open, you’ll head to an ice bar in Tromsø for a drink and an included lunch.

Meet up with a local guide this morning to get to know Northern Norway’s largest city, which sits at the beginning of the Arctic Circle.

• Ride the Fjellheisen cable car up Mount Storsteinen to an altitude of roughly 1,380 feet above sea level, taking in panoramic views of the city and surrounding fjords.
• Step inside the Arctic Cathedral, the northernmost cathedral in the world, and admire its Arctic-inspired design.
• View remnants of Tromsø’s medieval settlement in the city’s historic core, before heading to Stortorget—Tromsø’s main square—to experience its vibrant marketplace.
• Head to the Polar Museum, situated in a 19th-century waterfront warehouse, to hear the epic tales of Fridtjof Nansen, Roald Amundsen, and other Arctic explorers and hunters.

Spend a free evening in Tromsø or add an excursion.

Please note: On some departures, entrance to the Arctic Cathedral will take place on day 6.

Norwegian Fjords Northern Lights Dinner Cruise

From $199 per person

Enjoy a free day in Tromsø or add an excursion.

This evening, head out into the night with a local guide and scour the sky for signs of the aurora borealis. (Keep your eyes peeled: Thanks to its northerly location and low levels of light pollution, Tromsø’s one of the best places in the world to spot the northern lights.)

Please note: This excursion is weather-dependent and seeing the aurora borealis is not guaranteed. On some departures, the northern lights search may take place on day 6.

Sami Reindeer Farm & Lunch

Fly to Oslo this morning. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in the Oslo region and get settled in for your last night in Norway.

Later, rejoin your group to celebrate your trip during a farewell dinner.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home, or extend your trip to explore Flåm and Bergen.

Spend the day journeying through Norway’s fjord country, a region of otherworldly natural beauty.

• Enjoy a scenic train ride from Oslo to Myrdal Station where you’ll continue along the Flåm Railway, which snakes down to the fjord-side town of Flåm on one of the steepest tracks in the world.
• Disembark in the village of Flåm, a small settlement of 350 people overlooking Aurlandsfjord that traces its roots back to the 1300s.

This evening, sit down for an included dinner with your group.

Take to the water today and embark on a scenic cruise through a pair of fjords—the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord and the beautiful Aurlandsfjord—as you make your way to the village of Gudvangen.

• Admire the small towns and towering cliffs that line the waterway, along with the breathtaking Sagfossen—an under-the-radar waterfall that cascades over 1,600 feet down a wooded, rocky mountainside.
• Disembark in the village of Gudvangen and visit Njardarheimr, a cultural center that depicts how Vikings lived in their native land. Experience their day-to-day as it was 1,000 years ago, and learn just how Vikings influenced modern Norwegian culture.

Continue on to Bergen and spend a free evening in the city.

Join a local guide and discover the historic sites in and around Bergen, Norway’s second city and a settlement that was first founded in 1070.

• Drive to the borough of Fana and enter the wooden, medieval-style Fantoft Stave Church—a reconstruction of the original that was first built in the mid-12th century.
• Pass by the 13th-century, stone Bergenhus Fortress and the bustling Fish And Flower Market.
• Admire views of the city center and harbor from Custom House Pier (and maybe snap a picture or two).
• Walk through Hanseatic-era alleyways and courtyards—and past one of the most famous photo ops in Bergen—in the UNESCO-listed Bryggen harbor district.

This evening, enjoy a farewell drink as you celebrate your trip with your fellow group members.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This high-rise hotel is located in the city of Oslo. Guests enjoy the indoor pool, views of the city, and fitness center. Nearby you’ll find the Royal...

This historic hotel is located in the heart of Narvik, in an old WWII German army base. Guests enjoy the sky bar, fitness center, and beautiful views....

This waterfront hotel sits on the southeast side of Tromsø. Guests enjoy a variety of restaurants, an on-site brewery, and a sauna. Nearby, you’ll fin...

This modern hotel is located on the Fornebu peninsula, outside of Olso. Guests enjoy a bar, restaurant, and gym. Nearby, you’ll find the Engineerium m...

This hotel, occupying an 1800s manor house, is located in Flåm, steps away from the Aurlandsfjord. Guests enjoy the individually designed rooms, on-si...

This modern hotel is located in Bergen’s Sentrum neighborhood. Guests enjoy a foodbar, a gym, and free bicycle rentals. Nearby, you’ll find the Bergen...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Norway, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least two blank passport pages for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you’re not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code SNL.
• You’ll walk for at least two hours daily across moderately uneven terrain—including wet, slippery gravel; snow; ice; and paved paths with some uphill climbs.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times, as well as getting in and out of boats, ferries, and trains.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in and depart from Oslo (or depart from Bergen on the tour extension). A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers from Go Ahead Tours at an additional cost.
• Flights from Oslo to Narvik, and from Tromsø to Oslo, are included in the price of your tour.
• Train rides from Oslo to Myrdal and from Myrdal to Flåm, as well as a fjord day cruise, are included in the price of the tour extension.
• All other transportation included on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Airlines have varying weight restrictions on luggage. Some may impose additional charges if you choose to check any bags; be advised that you’re responsible for any such costs.
• You may contact your airline for detailed information regarding baggage size and weight restrictions for your flight, but please note: Our travelers are restricted to one checked bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
• One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it doesn’t exceed 45 total inches (length + width + height).
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Winters in Norway are generally cold. To ensure you’re comfortable during outdoor sightseeing and evening northern lights excursions, we recommend packing a warm coat, hat, gloves, and winter socks, as well as rainwear.
• We also suggest packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can easily be layered. Avoid wearing cotton whenever possible—it’s an ineffective insulator.
• A warm, sturdy pair of walking shoes or winter boots is strongly recommended for sightseeing. You may also want to consider bringing ice cleats for better traction.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• Check with your doctor or healthcare provider, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at cdc.gov, at least 60 days prior to departure to review the latest updates and entry requirements.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour, as well as any possible delays you may encounter.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• Norwegian cuisine is varied, offering something for every traveler. Lamb is the most traditional meat, but you’ll also find everything from goose to deer. Seafood lovers will enjoy the country’s array of smoked salmon, shellfish, pickled herring, and scrod. Typical meals often incorporate grains, locally produced cheeses, fresh produce, and wild berries.
• Norway operates on the European standard of 220–240 volts and uses Type C or F plugs with two small, round pins.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other electrical device without a built-in converter.
• The strength of the air conditioning in some European hotels may not be as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. When air conditioning is available, it’s usually regulated seasonally and controlled centrally by the hotel.
• Your hotels may provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances. However, these amenities cannot be guaranteed.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There’s no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Norway is one hour ahead of GMT and six ahead of EST.
• The amount of daylight in Norway greatly varies based on the season. Expect as much as 19 hours of daylight in the summer and as little as six in the winter.
• You will use the Norwegian krone on tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you bring debit/bank and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks, as needed.
• You can use most debit and credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you don’t already have at least one card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in the local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend that each person tips the equivalent of USD$10 to USD$12 per day for your Tour Director, and the equivalent of USD$3 per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of USD$2 per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions can be purchased while you’re on tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.

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Welcome to Lofoten Lights

Excursions & guided services - lofoten islands.

We’d like to help you share in our passion for this incredible show wich nature offers us. We’ll help you explore the history and culture of this amazing archipelago.

We want you feel the excitement of the lights , as their thousands of ever­changing colours draw your gaze heavenwards. All year round, we offer services of highest quality.

Our desire is to make our “travelling friends” find themselves completely at their ease with the strong arctic nature of Lofoten, independent of who they are, or what they are doing.

We can try with only words, even if they’ll never be enough, to describe what our eyes see every day…but we want, above all, even if only for a day, that YOUR eyes photograph this amazing land…and whatever type of excursion you do, we are sure that you will remember it forever.

Choose our best tours to visit the Lofoten Islands

PRIVATE 2 days summer sightseeing & photography tour in Lofoten

PRIVATE 2 Days Winter Sightseeing & Photography tours in Lofoten

The magic of Lofoten

PRIVATE CRUISE TOUR – departure from Svolvær harbour

PRIVATE CRUISE TOUR – departure from Leknes harbour

CRUISE TOUR – departure from Svolvær harbour

What our nice guests say, latest tripadvisor reviews.

Special packages

Personalised tour packages in lofoten islands that may include:.

• Accommodation
• Guided Tours
• Nature Adventures
• Guided services with friendly native-speaking guides.

Tailor-Made Excursions

Unique lofoten experiences, tailor made to your particular interests and needs, ideal for:.

• Individual Travellers
• Small & big Groups
• Travellers with specific interests (photography, flora & fauna, etc.)

Winter & Summer Excursions

Fun excursions around lofoten islands all year-round.

• Midnight Sun Hiking
• Northern Lights Hunting
• Hiking and Trekking
• All-day Tours
• Half-day Tours

Excursion & guiding service in Lofoten

Claudia Gasperini Maurizio Massaccesi

• Kirkegata 13, 8300 Svolvær
• +47 95 00 59 77
• +47 95 00 86 31
• [email protected]
• Lofotenlights

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Northern Lights & Norway in a nutshell from Oslo

Gaute Bruvik/ VisitNorway.com

Good to know

See the Northern Lights and experience Norway's beautiful fjord scenery on the famous Norway in a nutshell tour.

This breathtaking trip combines the popular Norway in a nutshell® tour with your very own Northern Lights adventure! The tour from Oslo is available as a round trip with a return to Oslo.

Northern Lights excursion

Your tour from Oslo starts by flying north to Tromsø where an overnight stay is required. During your stay in Tromsø, you will experience a 7-hour Northern Lights excursion to Camp Tamok. Because of its inland climate with stable dry weather, Camp Tamok is considered one of the prime locations to see the Aurora Borealis. You will, therefore, have excellent chances of spotting the frail rays of this beauty! You will be equipped with an insulated body suit, boots, gloves, headwear and headlamp. The excursion also includes a hot meal, a short nighttime hike and social time by the open fire in the big lavvu (Sami herdsmen’s tent).

The Norway in a nutshell® tour

You leave Tromsø by plane and upon arrival in Bergen, an overnight stay is required. From Bergen, you embark on the legendary Norway in a nutshell® tour. Here you will experience the mountains and fjords with the Bergen and Flåm Railway, as well as the magnificent Aurlandsfjord and narrow Nærøyfjord on a Fjord cruise.

Customise - 3 days or more

Provided by Fjord Tours

• Independent tour
• Railway Tours
• 15. Nov - 25. Mar
• * Guided Northern Lights Excursion * Bus trip through western winter landscape, Voss - Gudvangen * The scenic Bergen Railway, Bergen - Voss * Fjord cruise on the narrow Nærøyfjord and on the magnificent Aurlandsfjord * The breathtaking Flåm Railway, Flåm - Myrdal * The scenic Bergen Railway, Myrdal - Oslo
• * Flight, Oslo - Tromsø * Flight, Tromsø - Bergen
• * Oslo * Bergen * Tromsø

Tour Highlights

Northern Lights in Norway

Flåm Railway

The Nærøyfjord

Bergen Railway

Northern Lights in Tromsø

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

10 Best Northern Lights Holiday Tours in Norway

9 August 2023 · In: Norway , Travel

Are you planning a  winter trip to Norway  and looking for the  best Northern Lights tours ? You have come to the right place! Nothing more magical than watching those green lights dancing above you in the sky. It is undoubtedly an experience you will never forget. 

What are the Northern Lights? They are a  natural phenomenon  that appears when highly charged solar wind particles floating from the sun collide with air molecules in the atmosphere of the earth, transferring their energy into light. 

This event occurs around the Polar regions, and that is why   Norway benefits from a prime location  all winter long.

Of course, do not forget that this phenomenon is  unpredictable . Therefore, you will need  patience and willingness , especially on a cold night in the wild. 

However, once the magic begins,  you will be speechless . The first time I saw them, I was sailing along the Norwegian Fjords, and I was so emotional as it was so beautiful – I could not believe my eyes. 

So gear up, pack your camera and be ready for a night you will never forget on  one of these epic Northern Lights tours in Norway . Each offers something different whether you are a foodie lover, adventure seeker or a couple looking for a romantic evening under the stars. 

Enjoy, and let me know which one is your favourite in the comments below 💚

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information,  read our full affiliate disclosure .

• 10- Norwegian Cuisine and Northern Lights Chase 

Overview: best Norway Northern Lights tours

• From Tromsø: Aurora Borealis Tour –  ultimate day trip
• From Tromsø: Reindeer Sled, Dinner and Northern Lights Day Trip –  reindeer tour
• From Tromsø: Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner –  cruise expedition
• From Tromsø: Camp Tamok Evening Dog Sledding Tour –  dog sled tour
• From Tromsø: 4×4 Small Group Northern Lights Photography Tour –  small group
• From Svolvær: Searching for the Northern Lights –  Lofoten islands
• From Tromsø: Reindeer Feeding with Chance of Northern Lights –  great with kids
• From Tromsø: Northern Lights Chase with Free Photos –  photo tour
• From Tromsø: Northern Lights Walking Tour –  walking tour
• From Tromsø: Norwegian Cuisine and Northern Lights Chase –  foodie tour

Top locations to see the Northern Lights

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10 best Norway Northern Lights holiday tours

Here are the top tours and experiences I recommend to catch the Northern Lights in Norway and create unforgettable memories :

1- Aurora Borealis Tour

The ultimate Arctic day trip

Experience the arctic winter and the incredible Northern Lights from the comfort of a  panorama coach  providing extra large windows, comfy seats, heat and space for your legs! The perfect way to  get closer to nature  whilst keeping yourself warm and dry. 

Your guide will pick you up and take you to unique places where you will have the chance to  experience the Northern Lights first-hand  and be amazed by this natural phenomenon. 

And because these lights can be unpredictable and require  good solar activity and clear skies , your guide will do their best to read the weather forecast and decide where to stop and for how long, so  each evening will be different . 

In addition, I understand how important capturing these dancing lights is (and how challenging it is!), so your guide will help you with  camera settings  and  tripod use  for memorable photos. Have fun!

📍 Tromsø, Norway ⭐️ 4.8/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £107.47 per person

2- Reindeer Sled, Dinner and Northern Lights Day Trip

The perfect Sami experience

This unique tour is one of the best to  learn more about Sami culture  and experience it first-hand. You will have the opportunity to travel into the wilderness and  walk among 300 wild reindeer , with the chance to feed them too! 

You will then embark on your arctic adventure and enjoy a  20-minute sled ride  under the stars with, hopefully, the Northern Lights dancing above you. 

Afterwards, you will be invited inside a candlelit Gamme (traditional Sami hut) to warm up with hot drinks and  savour a three-course meal , including Bidos (traditional Sami stew) cooked on the open fire.

Finally, join your hosts around the fire to listen to  Sami’s history and stories . Learn what it is like to be a reindeer herder and watch the locals perform a Joik (traditional Sami song). 

And, of course, do not forget to step outside to see if the  spectacular Northern Lights  appear above the camp.

📍 Tromsø, Norway ⭐️ 4.5/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £138.39 per person

3- Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner

An epic sailing expedition

Embark aboard a stunning  100-foot sailing yacht  for a night you will never forget! Depart from Tromsø on a 4-hour cruise to explore the Fjords in search of the Northern Lights in a  comfortable and intimate atmosphere . 

Stay warm on the  exterior deck under cosy blankets  and with a hot drink, and keep your eyes on the sky. Alternatively,  hop in the hot tub  for a one-of-the-kind experience whilst admiring the beautiful arctic scenery.

You will then have the chance to  enjoy a traditional dinner  with reindeer soup and local vegetables. Your guide will also share stories and tales and answer any questions you have about Norway. 

As you guessed, this tour is  ideal for couples  looking for a romantic evening under the stars in a relaxed and private setting. It is also great for  small groups  who want to have a peaceful time.

📍 Tromsø, Norway ⭐️ 4.8/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £193.29 per person

4- Camp Tamok Evening Dog Sledding Tour

A memorable husky SLED ride

Experience a  unique dog sledding adventure  through snowy terrain surrounded by mountainous arctic landscapes. The Huskies at Camp Tamok will be eager to meet you and take you on a  90-minute journey  into the wilderness whilst chasing the Northern Lights.

Plus, you will have the chance to  drive the sled yourself  – I did it, and it was so much fun. Upon arrival, your host will provide warm clothes and necessary equipment and show you how to steer your sled.

Each sled will have two people, one driver (musher) and one passenger (you will switch halfway). You  do not need prior experience , only a positive attitude and the willingness to try! You will quickly notice how well-trained the dogs are and how much they love it, but do not forget that you sometimes need to help them push the sled – it is  teamwork , after all.

After the tour, spend time  cuddling the dogs  and  enjoy a well-deserved hot meal  around the open fire in a traditional reindeer herder tent. It will be the perfect chance to relax, warm up and connect with the locals.

📍 Tromsø, Norway ⭐️ 4.8/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £155.48 per person

5- 4×4 Small Group Northern Lights Photography Tour

An intimate small-group tour

Venture on the road in search of the majestic Northern Lights on a  guided photography tour in a custom-built 4×4 van , fully equipped with everything you may need for a night in the Arctic.

With a  small group of no more than eight people , your experienced guide will take you to the wilderness and remote places, reaching  quieter and more peaceful areas  and giving you more time to find and catch the Aurora.

Upon reaching suitable a sky, you will  set up camp for the evening . Your guide will make sure you are comfortable by providing thermal clothing and keeping you warm with a  campfire . You will also  enjoy homemade soup, cookies and hot drinks  whilst getting to know the other travellers. 

And because you will want to remember this unique night, your guide (who is also an  avid photographer ) will capture the moment for you. If you bring your own camera, they will help you set it up for the best photos. Otherwise, they will share the  high-resolution images  with you the next day at no additional charge.

📍 Tromsø, Norway ⭐️ 4.9/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £177.82 per person

6- Searching for the Northern Lights

A perfect night in the Lofoten Islands

Witness the most dramatic light show in a  spectacular setting  on this Northern Lights tour from Svolvær, the capital of the Lofoten Islands.

On this expedition, your guide will take you to parts of the archipelago with a high chance of seeing the lights dancing in the sky, depending on the solar activity. You will walk among  picturesque landscapes, frozen lakes and old fishing towns  in search of these extraordinary green lights.

Once the magic begins, a  professional photographer  will help you  set up your camera  and will also capture this unique moment in high resolution for you.

After that, you will stop at the village of  Kabelvåg  to warm up with hot drinks and cakes at a  traditional Norwegian pub , where your guide will tell you  myths and legends  of the Northern Lights and their impact on the Scandinavian population. 

📍 Svolvær, Norway ⭐️ 4.8/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £88.91 per person

7- Reindeer Feeding with Chance of Northern Lights

Great to do with kids

If you are a family travelling with children in Norway, this tour is for you. You will have the chance to  feed a herd of 300 reindeer ,  listen to local folklore  and keep a lookout for the magical  Northern Lights .

Hop aboard a van that will transfer you to the  Sami camp . Once there,  step back in time  as you discover how the reindeer and the Sami have lived and worked on this land for centuries. 

Get closer to nature as you  feed the herd of around 300 wild reindeer  – some even eating out of your hand. And if you love taking photos, you will also have a great time  capturing these majestic animals .

After that, step into a candlelit Lavuu (traditional Sami tent) to  enjoy a traditional Sami dinner  with reindeer herders whilst you learn more about their culture, beliefs and past.

Finally, look up when the sky is clear to  spot a spectacular display of the Northern Lights  directly above the reindeer camp.

📍 Tromsø, Norway ⭐️ 4.6/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £130.66 per person

8- Northern Lights Chase with Free Photos

A unique photo tour

The perfect tour to get closer to nature and capture unique memories! Join this  small-group expedition  to chase the Northern Lights in a relaxed experience away from the crowds. 

Hop in the van and start your journey to find the ideal spot. As the maximum group size is 16 guests, you will be able to  speak with your guide and ask all your questions  – whilst connecting with other travellers.

You will also enjoy  hot drinks and biscuits  whilst waiting outside and keeping an eye up to see the majestic Aurora Borealis dancing in the sky.

And for any photo lovers out there, this is the excursion for you. Your guide will help with your  camera settings  and  take high-resolution photos  to share for free with the group after the tour, so you will never forget this magical night. 

📍 Tromsø, Norway ⭐️ 4.7/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £107.85 per person

9- Northern Lights Walking Tour

A fantastic walking experience

Put on your walking boots and  venture into the wilderness  with your local guide as you chase the famous Northern Lights. Once on this fascinating journey, you will  learn more about the local myths, stories and hotspots  for seeing the Aurora Borealis.

Start your walking expedition in the town centre and follow your experienced guide as they lead you to the  best locations for catching this natural phenomenon .

As you walk, take the time to  admire the city from a new perspective  whilst your guide shares  local stories  on the Northern Lights and their impact on the people of the Arctic, culturally and historically.

After a couple of hours, you will end up at a  peaceful lake with no light pollution , which will be the ideal place to watch the most beautiful natural light show. 

Once back, you will also have the chance to warm up and enjoy a  well-deserved drink at one of the most popular pubs  in the town.

📍 Tromsø, Norway ⭐️ 4.3/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £76.54 per person

10- Norwegian Cuisine and Northern Lights Chase 

An unmissable foodie tour

Experience Norway at its best with this  2-in-1 Arctic experience  combining a  delicious traditional dinner  and a  Northern Lights chase  with a small group for a relaxed and intimate adventure.

Your evening will start with your  local Norwegian Chef Tove  in her  comfortable Lavvu  (traditional Sami tent) heated by a campfire, located on the Malangen peninsula, a 45-minute scenic drive from Tromsø.

Your Chef will serve you an exclusive dinner consisting of a  three-course menu  (meat and vegetarian options available) made with  fresh and local ingredients  from her garden.

After dinner, your guide will take you to the mountains or Fjords to  catch the Northern Lights . Checking the weather and Aurora forecast, they will try to find the best spots for you. And along this exciting journey, you will also  enjoy some Lefse , a traditional Norwegian cake that the Chef has prepared for you.

📍 Tromsø, Norway ⭐️ 4.5/5 (Get Your Guide reviews) 💵 From £207.98 per person

Best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway is when  the sky is dark but clear . Winter is the short answer  from September to March  between 23:00 and 02:00, as you will find constant daylight during the summer months.

However, contrary to popular belief,  spring (March-April) and autumn (September-October)  have statistically the highest level of aurora activity and are, therefore, the  best seasons  to catch this beautiful natural phenomenon! 

The main reason is that even though the sky is darker in the middle of winter, it is also cloudier, hiding the lights. 

Also, note that light pollution from cities will make it more challenging the see the aurora. You will need to find  total darkness in smaller towns and remote places  for a better chance of catching the green lights. 

In any case, be sure to  check the weather forecast  each day and be on the lookout throughout the night so you do not miss out, as you never know when they will appear.

Some hotels will also wake you up  when the Northern Lights are dancing in the sky, which is very handy. 

My personal experience – I had the chance to see the Northern Lights when I was on a cruise along the Norwegian Fjords in November. The sky was cloudy most of the nights except the last, where we were treated to an incredible show I will never forget! The lights were dancing above us in the middle of the sea, and it was magical. 

Where to see the Northern Lights in Norway

The best place to see the Northern Lights in Norway is  Tromsø  – that is why most of the tours recommended in this article start from this town, as it is located directly in the  centre of the aurora zone . 

Also known as the capital of the Arctic, Tromsø is a  popular tourist destination  for catching the lights, even on a weekend getaway. And even if you can sometimes see them from the town, it is better to move away to  more remote areas  to avoid too much light pollution.

The  Lofoten Islands  are another  popular and scenic place  to watch the Northern Lights in the wilderness as the lights reflect off the sea. This peaceful archipelago features  spectacular mountains  and  old fishing villages  as a picturesque background, perfect if you love taking photos.

Finally, the  North Cape  (Nordkapp), a high cliff extending into the Arctic Ocean, is one of the  best   remote places  to see the Aurora Borealis. You will find yourself in  silence and total darkness  to enjoy this magical natural phenomenon. 

Of course, it is also possible to see the Northern Lights  from anywhere  in winter in Norway – as long as you stay away from the busy cities. Wherever you go on vacation,  check out the weather forecast regularly  and keep your eyes on the sky. 

What to pack for a winter Norwegian trip

The most important for a great winter vacation in Norway is to arrive prepared so you can enjoy your Northern Lights tour whilst staying warm and dry .

Here are some clothing items and gear you will need to pack for a comfortable trip to the Arctic : 

• Boots : you will need waterproof boots with good grip to keep your feet warm and dry during outdoor activities and when exploring the wilderness in search of the magical green lights. I wore my  Sorel boots , and they were perfect. They are very comfortable, and my feet were never wet or cold.
• Winter thermal socks : wearing quality socks is essential to keeping your feet warm. Mine were  thick thermal socks   that I used for my Norway trip (and skiing in Lapland). They were not highly technical, but they did the job and were comfy.
• Coat : one of the most necessary elements for a winter gateway! Choosing a coat that is right for you and can adapt to the types of activities you want to do is essential. I wore a  Fjällräven Nuuk parka , and once again, it was great. Buying a quality cold-weather jacket is expensive, but you will not regret it (I have owned mine for years, and I even wear it at home in the UK). This coat has kept me warm for all my winter trips, including Lapland and Iceland.
• Base layers and second layers : these layers are crucial if you want to stay warm on an Arctic night, especially when staying still looking at the sky. The base layers are usually long-sleeved thermal t-shirts, and the second layers can be thin thermal sweaters or thick jumpers, depending on the temperature and how many layers you want to wear. They do not need to be fancy, but I recommend having several to switch over the week. I bought mine in Decathlon.
• Gloves and hats : enjoying the cold weather in search of the Northern Lights without gloves or a hat sounds impossible (especially if you like taking photos)! As you will spend some time outside (sometimes standing still), you should not forget to protect your head and hands. I also recommend wearing waterproof gloves for extra protection and a padded hat. Again, I bought mine in Decathlon.
• Scarf : the scarf will depend on your preferences, as many people do not enjoy feeling something around their neck. But because the wind can be strong, especially if you choose activities such as a cruise expedition and dog sledding, I suggest wearing a  Buff . It was one of my favourite items! The one I chose was lightweight, thermal and incredibly useful. Buff products are much easier to wear than long scarves and adapt to your exercise level.
• Pants : the type of pants you wear will most likely depend on the activity you choose and your preferences. Most of the time, I wore my jeans with tights underneath. Matt did the same (without pantyhose, aha), but he was always warm enough. However, for some places or activities like dog sledding, having windproof/waterproof pants will be essential.

Also, note that most tour operators will provide thermal clothing and all the necessary equipment so you can enjoy your night out looking for the famous aurora.

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Prepare for your perfect outdoor adventure and explore responsibly.

Tips for reducing your eco-impact in Norway

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Being a responsible traveller whilst searching for the Northern Lights in Norway is possible! Here are some  eco-friendly travel tips  for reducing your carbon footprint:

• If you need to take the plane, book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green city break. 
• Use public transport  to get around, and if you self-drive and rent a car,  choose the smallest vehicle  adapted to what you want to do and see. And to go even further, you can  rent an electric one . Many charging points are accessible all over Norway.
• Select an eco-friendly accommodation . It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide.
• Whilst participating in a tour,  treat the landscapes and wildlife with respect . Respect what your guide asks you to do regarding the animals (touching or feeding them), and always pay attention to where you walk.
• Do not leave a trace . Do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take your rubbish with you. 
• Eat at local restaurants  that use produce from the area and emphasise organic and sustainability. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful, smile and talk to the locals.

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Norway travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Norway? Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your winter trip to Norway stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

💧 Can you drink the water in Norway? Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Norway. However, I recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in Norway? Yes, renting a car in Norway is easy and is a great way to explore the country freely at any time of the year. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

🏨 How to book accommodation in Norway? The best way to book your accommodation in Norway is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Norway? I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Norway Northern Lights – FAQ 

The best months to see the Northern Lights in Norway are March-April and September-October when the sky is dark enough and clear of clouds. However, it is also possible to catch the lights anytime in winter, from September to April.

The best place to see the Northern Lights in Norway is Tromsø, located directly in the centre of the aurora zone. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations for catching the aurora. Of course, it is also possible to see the lights from anywhere in Norway, as long as you stay away from the busy cities.

I suggest spending a few days in Norway if you want to catch the Northern Lights, as they are so unpredictable. It might take you time until you see your first one, as you will need to check the forecast each day, keep your eyes up and move around – a true chase!

Have you ever experienced the Northern Lights in Norway?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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5 Best Tromso Northern Lights Tours + Important Things to Know Before Booking

January 14, 2024 by Silvia 34 Comments

I’ve now lived in Tromsø for two full northern lights seasons (late August to late March) and completely understand why Tromso northern lights tours are so popular. It’s certainly been magical getting to see the northern lights so often while living here. Sometimes I’ll be having a terrible day and grumpily take my dog Alfie out for a walk, but then I’ll look up and feel like the luckiest person in the world.

Quick Tromsø Travel Guide

Tromsø Accommodation: Thon Hotel Polar and Thon Hotel Tromsø across the street are both excellent options right in the city center, and the breakfast buffet is incredible. The fanciest hotel in town is the Clarion Hotel The Edge , which is right on the water and home to Tromsø’s only skybar. I’ve also written a full guide to the best Tromsø hotels here . 

Tromsø Activities Hostel is a great option if you’re on a tight budget. And if you want your own apartment, this glass roof loft near the center looks incredible. I don’t recommend booking an Airbnb in Tromsø.

Top Tromsø Activities: 

• Small group northern lights tour

Northern lights sailing excursion

• Fjord cruise with a sauna/jacuzzi on board
• Boat/RIB whale watching tour
• Arctic dog sledding excursion  (or this dog sledding excursion 2 hours from Tromsø)
• Reindeer excursion
• Snowmobile tour

Tromsø car rental:  Tromsø is surrounded by incredible nature, but public transport is sparse so I recommend renting a car, if you can. You can compare prices and book your Tromsø car rental at autoeurope.com .

Packing for Tromsø: You can find my  winter packing guide for Norway here . In general I would say focus on practical outdoors clothing – people dress very casually here, even when going out at night. Don’t forget some warm sweaters, even in the summer! 

When people ask me where in Norway to go to see the northern lights, I always recommend Tromsø first. Tromsø is a good place to see the northern lights because it lies so far above the Arctic Circle so the aurora activity is consistently high, but it’s also on the coast, which means that the temperatures are a lot warmer than other places this high above the Arctic Circle. 

That said, there are some things to know if you are planning a Tromsø northern lights trip. Yes, we see the aurora a lot here, but downtown Tromsø isn’t the best place in Norway to see the northern lights, so if you want to see them you’ll need to take a northern lights tour in Tromsø, or drive out on your own. And if you want to know how to photograph the northern lights read my full guide here ,

Ideally you want to be somewhere really dark, away from city lights to see the aurora. You can often still see the northern lights in the Tromsø city center, however whenever we get a really spectacular lights show here I secretly wish I were in the countryside where it would look even more incredible.

This is why a lot of people coming for the northern lights sign up for a Tromsø northern lights tour that will take them away from the city lights (and hopefully towards clear skies), which is a fantastic option. Then during the day you can explore downtown. Tromsø is a great little city with lots of cafes, galleries, museums, shops, restaurants, and bars to keep you interested when the northern lights aren’t out. I’ve shared a full guide for the best things to do in Tromsø here . 

If you don’t want to sign up for a bunch of northern lights tours from Tromsø, you could also spend a few nights in the countryside. If you’re comfortable renting a car, I would consider flying into Tromsø and then leaving the city to stay somewhere darker. 

Best month to see the northern lights

And if you’re wondering when is the best time to see the northern lights in Tromsø, you will have good chances of seeing them from September to the beginning of April. Personally February and March are my favorite months for northern lights in Tromsø, because there’s snow on the ground and the sun has returned so you can enjoy your days a bit more as well. But if you hate the cold I definitely recommend visiting in September or October, as the weather is more tolerable for nights spent outside watching the sky. 

Best Tromso northern lights tours

If you do choose to stay in Tromsø, you’ll definitely want to book at least a couple northern lights tours. In fact even when my parents visited me here I booked them on a tour instead of driving them out myself. Northern lights tours usually include heavy duty outdoor winter clothing, which is super helpful on those freezing cold nights, especially if you’re traveling from somewhere warmer. Guides are also in contact with each other so they can more effectively scout for the lights than you could on your own.

An added benefit of taking a northern lights tour is that most guides are trained in northern lights photography so usually the tour will include a photo of you under the northern lights (my parents were so pleased with the photos they got)! And tours also often include tripods so that you can try to take photos on your own camera too. While your phone can capture basic northern lights photos, you’ll need a tripod to take sharp northern lights photos because of the long exposures necessary in the dark.

There are so many northern lights tours running out of Tromsø, and to be honest they’re all pretty similar. I would just try to look for a long tour, where your guide will be willing to drive out to Sweden or Finland if necessary to find clear skies. And if your heart is really set on seeing the northern lights, I would absolutely book tours on multiple nights.

You can book northern lights tours on Manawa , GetYourGuide , or Viator . They all offer excellent and reliable service, but my personal favorite is Manawa as the tours tend to be a tiny bit cheaper through them and I love supporting a smaller company. 

You can also  buy a gift card from Manawa here . This would make a wonderful gift! 

These would be my top picks for the five best northern lights tours from Tromsø:

Cheapest Tromsø Northern Lights Tour

If you want the cheapest option for a northern lights bus chase, this 5 hour northern lights minibus tour is your best bet. It’s a bit cheaper than other tours because it only takes you to the neighboring island of Kvaløya to chase the northern lights, not  all the way to Sweden or Finland if necessary. 

I don’t think this is the very best tour option, but if you’re on a budget it’s still an excellent choice. You get a professional guide to find the best location to spot the northern lights, a warm thermal suit to wear, and tripods for your cameras. 

You can cancel up to 4 days in advance for a full refund, and if the tour is canceled due to bad weather you can reschedule or get your money back. 

Best Tromsø Northern Lights Tour

If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, this minibus tour would be ideal. This is the tour my parents did and they loved it.

This tour will drive all the way to Finland if necessary to find clear skies, and they provide a thermal suit, a hot meal and beverages, and a campfire.

The guide will take professional photos of you under the northern lights, but I love that they also bring tripods for your camera if you want to try your own hand at photographing the northern lights! Your guide will help you with all the photo settings so that you can capture the aurora yourself. 

This all inclusive northern lights chase minibus tour is offered by a different company and isn’t the exact one my parents did, but it looks very similar and is a bit cheaper! 

And if you want something more exclusive, this Tesla tour  is even smaller and still provides photos and a tripod to use. 

Husky Northern Lights Excursion

Northern lights tours can definitely be a bit disappointing if you don’t manage to see the aurora, so I love the idea of doing a fun activity outside at night so you’ll have a chance of spotting the northern lights but also a great time even if you don’t see the aurora.

This evening husky visit looks so much fun and will give you lots of chances of seeing the northern lights. You’ll get to play with the huskies and then have dinner around a campfire while waiting for the northern lights to appear. 

I wouldn’t recommend this as your only northern lights tour in Tromsø, as you’ll be staying in one location so you won’t have as high chances of seeing the northern lights as if you were chasing them in a bus. But the huskies are so much fun, so if you like dogs I would highly recommend this as a second tour for one of your other nights in Tromsø! 

Reindeer sleigh ride under the Northern Lights in Tromsø

If dogs aren’t your thing, maybe you would prefer to hang out with some reindeer in Tromsø?  This evening reindeer sleigh ride looks absolutely magical. I did the daytime version of this tour and  loved it. Again, I wouldn’t recommend this as your primary northern lights tour in Tromsø, but this would be an excellent option as a second tour to book. 

This northern lights sailing excursion is actually the cheapest northern lights tour in Tromsø.

Sailing is a big part of life in Tromsø – I even know some students here who live on sailboats to save money on rent. So this is a great opportunity to get out on the water while here! Your chances of seeing the northern lights will be a bit lower as skies tend to be clearer inland. And it’s hard to photograph the northern lights on a moving boat, because you need to keep your camera still for several seconds.

But if you’re lucky, seeing the northern lights dancing over the water is one of the most extraordinary experiences I’ve had!

I also highly recommend filling your days with other fun activities to ensure that you have the best visit to Tromsø, even if you end up unlucky and don’t get to see the northern lights. 

Whale watching from Tromsø

From roughly November through January, you can see humpback whales and killer whales, or orcas, near Tromsø. The time they arrive does vary each year, as well as where you can see them. But luckily for you there are several Tromsø whale safari companies that send boats out to see the whales, wherever they may be (though of course whale sightings cannot be guaranteed). 

If you want to stay on a warm boat the entire time, then  this silent whale watching tour on an electric boat  is perfect, and lasts around eight hours (depending on where the whales are) for optimal whale sighting chances. 

And if you’re feeling adventurous and want to see the whales up close,  this boat/RIB whale watching tour  takes you to the whales on a boat but then you switch to a RIB when you’re near the whales. 

Or if you want a full Arctic experience, this overnight Ice Domes tour includes an evening snowshoe hike, a night in the famous Tromsø Ice Domes, and a morning dogsledding tour.

Dog sledding in Tromsø

For best chances of snow I would do this in January, February, or March, but sometimes there will be enough snow on the ground in November and December for husky sledding. And then if there isn’t enough snow, some companies will take out carts with wheels instead.

There are lots of different husky sledding tours offered from Tromsø  which you can find here , but I recommend going with the Tromsø Wilderness Center. I know several people who have adopted retired huskies from the Wilderness Center and they offer really great care to the dogs when they aren’t working.

This husky excursion is perfect for beginners. Or that one is sold out this dog sledding excursion two hours from Tromsø might have availability. 

I’ve written more about dog sledding in Norway here . 

Reindeer in Tromsø

One of the fun things about living in Tromsø is that there are a lot of reindeer roaming outside the city!

Of course the best way to see some reindeer is to visit a reindeer camp.  This reindeer excursion takes you just 30 minutes from the Tromsø center to feed reindeer, learn about Sami culture, and even take a short reindeer sleigh ride. But personally I prefer this reindeer tour , which takes you out to the gorgeous Lyngen Alps. It is a bit longer of a drive but one of the most beautiful areas outside of Tromsø. I wrote more about my experience doing this tour here . 

They also offer  an evening reindeer sleigh ride  where you’ll have the chance to see the northern lights. 

Cross-country skiing

You can rent cross-country skis at  Tromsø Outdoor  right downtown (I believe rentals are 340 kroner for adults), but if you’ve never been on cross-country skis before you might prefer to go with a guide instead.  This guided cross-country skiing Tromsø tour  includes all the equipment, a ski lesson, hot drinks, and lunch.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is incredibly popular here, and it’s certainly a lot of fun. If you want to experience snowmobiling for yourself there are a bunch of  snowmobile tours offered out of Tromsø here . 

Tromsø accommodation

Tromsø has so many wonderful hotels, so you’ll have lots of options here. I’ve stayed at the Thon Hotel Polar and loved it, and my parents usually stay at the Thon Hotel Tromsø across the street, which is just as wonderful.

But everyone I’ve asked in Tromsø seems to agree that the nicest hotel in town is the Clarion Hotel The Edge. The Edge is right on the water and is home to Tromsø’s only skybar. My parents have also stayed here and loved it. Check current rates and availability here

And then if you are willing to stay outside of Tromsø, here are my top picks for the best places to see the northern lights in Norway (some of which won’t require a car):

I’ve also gathered even more tips for your northern lights trip into  an in depth ebook here . This covers all the necessities for planning a northern lights trip, going into much more detail than my blog posts. 

Sommarøy & Kvaløya

If you want to spend some time in Tromsø but don’t mind renting a car, I recommend staying outside of the city and driving in for a visit during the day. This way you’ll be in the right place when the lights do come out, but you can still have a bit of city experience as well. You can compare prices and book your rental at autoeurope.com .

Kvaløya, the island next to Tromsø, is a wonderful option because it’s only about a half hour drive from Tromsø, but will have dark skies and beautiful landscapes perfect for northern lights viewing.

You could book a cabin here and then drive into Tromsø during the day, though you’ll probably want to spend most of your time here because it’s beautiful. This cabin would be perfect, or this is a great budget option .

Or if you venture a bit farther you could stay on Sommarøy, which is absolutely stunning and one of my favorite places near Tromsø. The Sommarøy Arctic Hotel has a bunch of accommodation options for different budgets, including gorgeous seaside cabins.

The Lyngen Alps is my favorite mountain getaway from Tromsø and just so happens to be home to two of my favorite northern lights hotels in Norway: the glass igloos at North Experience Basecamp  and the mini Aurora Fjord Cabins .

Read about  my stay at the mini Aurora Fjord Cabins here .

When my friends wanted to plan a winter trip to Tromsø a few years ago I convinced them to go to the island of Senja instead. Senja has stunning mountains, lots of winter activities on offer, and it’s the perfect place to watch for the northern lights. Read more about our trip to Senja here .

I hadn’t actually hear of the island of Dyrøy before my visit to Senja, but we decided to add it onto our itinerary and it ended up being my favorite part of our trip. Dyrøy has incredible mountain views, and the owners of the cabin we stayed at were so wonderful. Plus we got to soak in a hot tub under the northern lights.

Read more about visiting Dyrøy here .

Vesterålen & Lofoten

Vesterålen and Lofoten are two archipelagos about a six hour drive south of Tromsø. You won’t get the highest chances of seeing the northern lights here as the weather can be really crazy, but the landscape might be incredible enough to make up for that.

I would say that choosing Vesterålen or Lofoten for your northern lights trip will be a bit of a gamble, but the scenery is so beautiful and there’s so much to do here that you will definitely have an unforgettable trip, aurora or no aurora. Read more about visiting Vesterålen here and visiting Lofoten here .

Alta is a small city of about 19,000 people so it doesn’t have much light pollution, but it’s a big tourist hub for Arctic tours and activities so you’ll find a lot to do here when you aren’t watching the northern lights. This is great because there’s always a chance you’ll be unlucky with the aurora and not get to see any northern lights, but if you fill your days with other fun activities you’ll have an amazing trip regardless.

The best northern lights accommodation is somewhere with a clear roof or at least very big windows, so you can watch for the lights in comfort (and warmth!). This is why I really love Arctic Domes, and the Arctic Dome at Glød Explorer is perfect because you don’t even need a car to visit. You can fly into Alta and they’ll pick you up at the airport. Read more about staying at Glød Explorer here .

Arctic Dome in Kokelv

The Arctic Dome in Kokelv might just be my favorite place I’ve stayed on a northern lights trip in Norway. The dome is perfect for northern lights viewing – I actually had a lot of trouble going to sleep here because the lights kept appearing above my bed. The dome sits at the top of a hill so you’ll get a full, unobstructed view of the sky, and a stay here also comes with a Sami style turf house with a fully equipped kitchen, shower, and sauna.

Kokelv is about a two hour drive from Alta so you’ll definitely need a car for this one, so I do think that Glød Explorer in Alta is a more convenient option. Read more about staying at the Arctic Dome in Kokelv here .

Kirkenes is one of my favorite towns in northern Norway. It’s right by the borders to both Finland and Russia, which I feel like gives it a really interesting vibe, but also offers excellent northern lights viewing opportunities because it’s easy to drive inland where the skies are usually less cloudy.

And you can even stay in an igloo hotel here !

Read more about visiting Kirkenes here .

And then if you want a true Arctic adventure, you have to go to Svalbard! Svalbard’s towns are the northernmost permanently inhabited spots on the planet (aside from a few research bases), and the archipelago is actually closer to the North Pole than to Oslo. Oh and Svalbard is one of the only places where you can see the daytime northern lights!

I was really surprised how easy it is to visit Svalbard – there are quite cheap flights from Oslo and Tromsø. Read more about planning a trip to Svalbard here .

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Travel Center UK says

March 29, 2021 at 3:52 pm

Thank you so much for this informative article 😉 Just asking out of curiosity how about a holiday to Iceland to view the northern lights? What do you think of Iceland?

Melissa says

March 29, 2021 at 4:35 pm

I really like the idea of those long northern lights tours. I mean, as well as seeing the northern lights I love the idea of travelling accross the artic to Sweden and Finland. I think, that is exciting me as much as the idea of seeing the northern lights.

Is it possible to walk from Tromsø airport to the city center or is it just a highway? I read it is only 4KM

April 27, 2021 at 3:31 pm

Hey.. I really like travelling… I was looking for Places in Norway to travel and I got this article.. Very nice information.. Thanks

August 7, 2022 at 7:58 pm

I’m planning a trip to Tromsø and found this – my dog is also named Alfie 🙂 gave me a big smile!

Silvia says

August 7, 2022 at 8:57 pm

What no way! I hope you enjoy Tromsø 😊

Joanna Alberti says

October 5, 2022 at 12:40 am

I’ve found this article most useful in planning our trip to Norway in the hope of seeing the Northern Lights and creating special family memories with my 12 year old son this December. What would you recommend for New Years Eve..Tromsø or Sommarøy Arctic Hotel or somewhere else? Look forward to hearing your thoughts. Best wishes Joanna

October 6, 2022 at 11:32 am

I would recommend Tromsø for New Year’s Eve! The fireworks are beautiful, and it’s a fun night out in the city.

Tirta Darma says

October 11, 2022 at 3:17 pm

Hi Silvia, it is so informative what you wrote. I am planing to visit Tromso on February 2023. How big is the chance to see the northern lights ? And besides Tromso, I will visit Alta and Nordkap as well, is it possible to drive ? Since some of my frepiends say it is possible but have to do convoy with other cars and must check the schedule, is it true ?

October 12, 2022 at 10:09 am

If you’re in the north for a week you should have good chances of seeing the northern lights, especially if you take a couple of northern lights tours that will chase clear skies. You can absolutely drive to Alta and the North Cape as well. We only have to drive in a convoy if there’s a big snow storm, but that is quite rare, so you should be fine.

Carla Wrench says

October 30, 2022 at 2:11 pm

This has been so helpful thank you. Have wanted to see the lights since I was little. Going to book Tromso end of January 23 for 4 nights and stay at Polar hotel recommended. My husband and I would love to spend one night in a glass dome – would this be possible? Where would you recommend if so? Thank you

November 1, 2022 at 9:28 pm

There are glass igloos at Lyngen North, which is a three hour drive from Tromsø. I think they can arrange transport if you’re not renting a car.

November 2, 2022 at 5:16 am

Hey Silvia, I like your posts, they are so informative and helpful. I am in two minds and wonder if I will be able to see northern lights during End April period? I know the chances are really low but with the climate changes, I want to be a little hopeful but I hope you can provide your views on this? Thanks in advance!

November 10, 2022 at 2:53 pm

No, it is too light at the end of April to see the northern lights – you can only see them when the sky is dark, which no longer happens by then.

Postcard Stories says

November 13, 2022 at 12:00 pm

To me Tromso is one of the most beautiful cities in the world 🙂 I’ve spent there a great midnight-sun season, but I wasn’t successful to spot northern lights at least once when visiting during Winter 🙁 But I’ll keep visiting.

November 15, 2022 at 11:54 am

Hi Silvia, Thank you, this has been so helpful for planning my visit in February. If my first Northern Light chase isn’t successful I plan on booking another one. Do you think that it is possible to find a tour on short notice (for the next day or so) or will they be completely booked (doesn’t have to be the same company but should still be a reliable one)? Thank you, Lynn

November 15, 2022 at 11:49 pm

February is a really busy time – sometimes all the hotels and restaurants in town book out too – so I would definitely book a tour in advance. A lot of them allow cancellation if necessary.

January 8, 2023 at 9:15 pm

Hi! You mention that AirBnB bookings fall through in Tromso…how often has this been happening. I have an AirBnB booked for February 2023 and am just reading your article *worry face*

January 9, 2023 at 9:51 pm

Oh hmm I think it’s been happening a lot, but hopefully you’ll be fine. Or you could check if there’s anything available on Booking.com instead.

Debora says

January 23, 2023 at 3:19 pm

We could potentially travel to Tromso to see the Northern Lights for my husband’s birthday in October. We will be accompanied by our 15 month old daughter. Would this be a good idea ? Do you have any tips and tricks of traveling with a baby in that region?

Many thanks!

Ian Hart says

August 14, 2023 at 3:42 pm

Hi Silvia I am really inspired to travel to Norway after reading your blogs. I wonder if I could ask you to check our itinerary and recommend the most appropriate of your guides to support my brother and me for a trip in early March 2024. • 1st Gatwick to Tromso gets in 23.40! • Hire SUV at airport – we are experienced drivers • Drive to Sommaroy? Or stay in Tromso in a cheap bed or sleep in SUV or drive to Lofoten area hoping to see the lights (440km – 6hrs?) • 2nd Stay in Lototen links – 2/3 nights • Tour Lototen, Reine, climb Reinebringen • 4th Drive to Abisko – stay in STF Abisko Turiststation (300km 4.5hrs?) • 5th Drive to Silsand – stay at Norwegian Wild (210km 3hrs?) • 6th Drive to Alta – stay in Sorrisniva Igloo – (400km 6hrs?) • 7th Holmen Husky lodge – Husky sledding • 7th (2 nights min) Kokelv turf house • Drive back to Tromso • 11th 06.15 fly home This leaves us a spare day should we stay in Lototen for 3 nights or somewhere else? We would really appreciate your thoughts before I book the flights. Many thanks in advance Ian

August 14, 2023 at 6:49 pm

Sommarøy is a long drive from Tromsø, so I would stay your first night in Tromsø instead. I don’t think you will be able to climb Reinebringen in March yet as there will likely be snow – at least you definitely wouldn’t want to attempt the hike if there is snow. I would honestly skip Abisko – it’s too big of a detour and the drive isn’t that spectacular. Instead I would maybe stop through Vesterålen ( https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/vesteralen-whales-reindeer/ ) on your way to Senja, or spend an extra night in Senja. The rest looks great, if you don’t mind the long drives!

August 15, 2023 at 3:01 pm

Thank you for getting back quickly. We will skip Abisko.

It’s a pity the ferry is not operating between Vesteralen and Senja in the winter. Also I would guess that its not be best time for whale watching. We will stay in Thon on your recommendation.

Which of your guides would be the most supportive on our trip?

Many thanks again Ian

August 20, 2023 at 11:05 am

My Northern Norway and Northern Lights guides would both be helpful. If going with just one I’d choose the Northern Lights guide: https://heartmybackpack.gumroad.com/

Barbara Cooper says

September 5, 2023 at 8:00 pm

Could you please recommend how to go about finding a rental property near Tromso, perhaps not in Tromso itself – for a week or so. An agency??

Thank you, Barbara

September 13, 2023 at 5:35 pm

Hi Silvia. I have booked the Lyngen North before reading your article! Have you stayed at the Lyngen North? May I know if there is a high chance to see the northern lights at around Nov/Dec?

September 16, 2023 at 9:06 am

Yes I’ve stayed at Lyngen North many times! It’s very beautiful there, and November/December is a great time to see the northern lights. I hope you will have clear skies and get to see them!

Massimo says

October 8, 2023 at 9:12 am

Hello Silvia, awesome article!

Is there any chance of actually seeing any northern lights in June? Asking because I am planning a trip to Tromso with my friends for the Midnight Sun marathon next year and we’ll probably only have about 4 days in Tromso so I have to choose wisely… Wondering what the best activities would be to make the best out of our time there!

Thanks so much and have a great day!

October 9, 2023 at 6:58 pm

You can only see the northern lights when the sky is dark, and the sun is up all day and night in June, so there’s no way to see the northern lights. It’s a wonderful time to visit though! I’ve shared all my Tromsø tips here: https://www.heartmybackpack.com/norway/things-to-do-in-tromso/

Alphabet says

January 22, 2024 at 5:16 pm

This place is my dream destination. I have no words to express this…..beauty

February 28, 2024 at 6:58 pm

We are really looking forward to starting our tour in Tromso in 2 days (14th August 2023 post). I have just tried to download the https://www.tinacinc.com/AuroraForecast/ app (for Android) but it seems that the app has not been updated for newer versions of the operating system (V14). Can you recommend another app?

Many thanks in advance Ian

Karen Cross says

March 17, 2024 at 8:25 pm

Big thank you, Silvia, for such an informative article. I will definitely get your e-book before we visit Norway. Planning on a short trip with husband Feb 2025, but wondering whether you would recommend a tour agency to do an all-inclusive short trip to see Northern Lights, husky-sledging, etc etc or whether you would recommend buying our own flights and arranging the hotel and all the activities ourselves ourselves? Many thanks, Karen

March 18, 2024 at 8:55 pm

I think you should be fine booking the flights hotel and activities yourself. Just make sure to book everything well in advance, as northern lights season is very busy and everything does book up.

Ritesh Gupta says

May 19, 2024 at 6:05 pm

Quite an informative article, really helped us clear a lot of doubts. It’s my wife’s b’day in November, and so we were wondering if it is a good time to plan a trip to Norway to witness the northern lights. Have been reading that it is cloudy during Nov and it can be difficult to spot the lights? How true do you suggest that is?

May 24, 2024 at 8:43 am

The weather in Norway is always changing, so there is truly no month with better chances of clear skies. My advice is to book a tour that will drive you for hours in search of clear skies. I think November is a great time to visit!

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Travel itinerary, Travel guide and Destination reviews

Norway Northern Lights Tour Itinerary – Best Spots + Day Wise Guide + Things To Do

In this article, you can read about Norway Northern Lights with a detailed day-wise Norway Northern Lights itinerary, viewpoints in specific locations, weather apps, and all helpful FAQs.

ALSO READ : 👉🏼Perfect Norway Winter Itinerary 7 Days With Northern Lights + Things To Do

Norway Northern Lights Tour

Embarking on a Northern Lights tour in Norway offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the ethereal dance of the Aurora Borealis against the Arctic night sky, creating an awe-inspiring and unforgettable natural spectacle. 

👉🏼Perfect Scandinavia Northern Lights Itinerary – Scandinavia Northern Lights Tour

Weather – Norway Northern Lights

The weather can vary significantly during the Northern Lights season in Norway, typically from late September to early April. Expect cold temperatures ranging from -5 °C to -20 °C (23°F to 4°F), with coastal areas experiencing milder conditions. 

At the same time, inland locations may be colder, emphasizing the importance of packing appropriate winter clothing for optimal comfort during your tour.

ALSO READ : 👉🏼5 Best Fjords Near Bergen (Best Norway Fjords)

Norway Northern Lights Itinerary 

Let’s check the detailed Norway Northern Lights itinerary with day-wise things to do, where to stay, and winter activities.

Day 1: Arrival in Tromsø

Tromsø is considered one of the best places in Norway to view the Northern Lights due to its strategic location within the Arctic Circle, offering a high probability of clear, dark skies during the Northern Lights season. Its coastal position also minimizes light pollution, providing optimal conditions for observing the Aurora Borealis.

• Arrive in Tromsø, a popular starting point for Northern Lights tours.
• Book your stay at a central hotel like the Thon Hotel Polar Tromso .
• Explore Tromsø city center and visit attractions like the Arctic Cathedral, Polaria, and the Tromsø Museum.
• Get acquainted with the local culture and cuisine.
• Enjoy a traditional Norwegian dinner at a local restaurant.
• Attend a Northern Lights orientation session to learn about the science and folklore behind the phenomenon.

ALSO READ : 👉🏼Bergen Things To Do (Best Of Bergen Norway + Ultimate Itinerary)

Day 2: Tromsø Sightseeing and Aurora Hunt

• Visit the Tromsø Botanical Gardens or take a scenic cable car ride for panoramic views.
• Explore Tromsø’s Old Town and have lunch at a local cafe.
• Visit the Tromsø Polar Museum to learn about the region’s history.
• Join a guided Northern Lights tour that takes you away from city lights for optimal viewing conditions.
• Learn how to photograph the Northern Lights with assistance from the tour guides.

Day 3: Dog Sledding Adventure

• Embark on a dog sledding adventure in the Arctic wilderness.
• Enjoy the stunning winter landscapes and learn about dog sledding from experienced guides.
• Return to Tromsø and relax after the exhilarating morning.
• Explore local pubs and cafes, experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Tromsø.

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Day 4: Travel to Alta

Alta, Norway, stands out as one of the best places to view the Northern Lights due to its northern location, providing an extended period of darkness during the Arctic winter. These conditions, coupled with its relatively low light pollution, enhance the visibility of the Aurora Borealis, creating an ideal environment for awe-inspiring displays.

👉🏼Finland Northern Lights Best Itinerary + Best Places To See & Things To Do

• Travel to Alta, Drive or take a bus to Alta (approximately 5-6 hours), another excellent location for Northern Lights viewing.
• And book your stay at the Thon Hotel Alta. .
• Check into your accommodation in Alta.
• Visit the Alta Museum to see ancient rock carvings.
• Attend an evening Northern Lights tour in Alta, taking advantage of the clear, dark skies.

Day 5: Alta and Sami Culture

• Explore the town of Alta and visit the Northern Lights Cathedral.
• Learn about Sami culture at the Alta Sami Siida.
• Visit the Igloo Hotel , a unique accommodation option.
• Take part in optional winter activities like snowmobiling or ice fishing.
• Enjoy a traditional Sami dinner.

Alta’s commitment to preserving the natural surroundings ensures a tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the enchanting experience of witnessing the Northern Lights.

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Day 6: Return to Tromsø and Departure

• Check out from your Alta accommodation.
• Travel back to Tromsø.
• Spend your last afternoon in Tromsø shopping for souvenirs or revisiting favorite spots.
• Depart from Tromsø.

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Where To Spot Norway Northern Lights? – Northern Lights in Norway

Both Tromsø and Alta offer various spots for viewing the Northern Lights. Here’s a list of some popular locations in each city.

• Tromsøya Island:  Various viewpoints offer a vast expanse of dark skies, especially toward the northeast.
• Ersfjord Beach:  A picturesque location outside Tromsø, providing a coastal view with minimal light pollution.

• Tromsø Cable Car (Fjellheisen):  Take the cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views and a chance to witness the lights dancing over the city.
• Kvaløya Island:  Explore the wilderness of Kvaløya, where open spaces and dark skies increase the chances of Northern Lights sightings.
• Alta Museum – Hjemmeluft:  Combining ancient rock carvings with a potential Northern Lights display creates a unique and historical viewing experience.
• Altafjord:  The fjord’s expansive views offer a serene setting for observing the Northern Lights.
• Northern Lights Cathedral (Nordlyskatedralen):  It is a stunning architectural marvel and a location where you can witness the lights in the heart of Alta.

• Altafjell (Alta Mountain):  Venture into the surrounding mountains for a higher vantage point and darker skies.

Before planning the Norway Northern Lights itinerary and booking the Norway Northern Lights tour, read about some valuable tips and FAQs.

ALSO READ 👉🏼Scandinavia Itinerary 12 Days (Denmark Norway Sweden Itinerary)

Best Apps To Predict Northern Lights In Norway

Several apps can help you predict and track the Northern Lights in Norway. Here are some popular ones:

• Aurora Forecast (by TINAC Inc.) :  This app provides real-time aurora borealis forecasts based on data from NOAA and other sources. It includes a map with the predicted aurora activity and cloud cover.
• Aurora Alerts Northern Lights (by Soft Pauer) :  This app alerts and forecasts. It uses a probability scale to indicate the likelihood of Northern Lights activity in your location. It also includes a map with the best viewing spots.
• My Aurora Forecast & Alerts (by Jake Ruston) :  This app is Known for its user-friendly interface, which provides real-time data, including the probability of seeing the Northern Lights, cloud cover, and other relevant information.
• Aurora Watch UK (by Lancaster University) :  Although initially designed for the UK, this app can be helpful for Northern European users. It provides real-time aurora alerts and predictions based on geomagnetic activity.
• Weather Underground (by The Weather Channel) :  While not exclusively for the Northern Lights, Weather Underground provides accurate weather forecasts, including cloud cover and other factors affecting Northern Lights visibility.

Before relying on any app, it’s essential to cross-reference the information with local forecasts and aurora monitoring services. Factors like light pollution and local geography play a role, so apps should be used as a supplementary tool to enhance your chances of experiencing the Northern Lights.

Helpful tips to know before planning Norway Northern Lights Itinerary (Norway Itinerary Northern Lights)

• Choose the Right Season:  Ensure your trip aligns with the Northern Lights season, typically from late September to early April when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest.
• Research Peak Months:  While the lights can be visible throughout the season, consider planning your trip from October to March for the highest likelihood of clear skies and vibrant displays.

• Check Aurora Forecast:  Regularly monitor the aurora forecast to gauge the expected activity level. Many websites and apps provide real-time data, helping you plan your Northern Lights excursions on nights with optimal conditions.
• Book Accommodations in Advance:  Due to the popularity of Northern Lights tourism, secure your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak months, to ensure availability and potentially witness the lights from your lodging.
• Dress for the Cold:  Norway’s winter temperatures can be freezing, so pack layers, insulated clothing, waterproof gear, and sturdy boots to stay warm and comfortable during extended outdoor activities to beat harsh, chilling weather.
• Join Guided Tours:  Enlist the expertise of local guides and tour operators who know the best viewing spots, increasing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights while gaining valuable insights into the phenomenon.
• Photography Preparation:  If you plan on capturing the Northern Lights, familiarize yourself with your camera’s settings, bring a tripod for stability, and pack extra batteries due to the cold weather.
• Stay Flexible:  Northern Lights visibility is weather-dependent. Be prepared to adjust your plans based on local weather forecasts, and consider staying in locations with various activities to enjoy if the lights are not visible on a particular night.
• Respect the Environment:  Norway’s natural beauty is crucial to the Northern Lights experience. Follow Leave No Trace principles, respect wildlife, and adhere to local guidelines to preserve the pristine Arctic landscapes.
• Travel Insurance:  Consider comprehensive travel insurance that covers potential travel disruptions due to weather conditions and offers peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your journey.

Now you know the best spots to view Norway Northern Lights with a detailed Norway Northern Lights itinerary, winter activities, and all helpful tips to plan your Norway Northern Lights tours.

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Are any of these tours have guides?

Yes, I have posted links in the article for northern lights tours – click the tour links

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Experience the Northern Lights

Far Out Focus - Hans Petter Sørensen

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15 days - Escorted Small Group tour to Norway and Finland with northbound Norwegian Coastal Voyage

'Experience the Northern Lights' in some of the most magical destinations in Scandinavia and the Nordics. For 15 days experience untouched wilderness, the home of Santa Claus and tour Oslo and Bergen. There will be unforgettable experiences, from three nights in a glass roofed cabin where you may be able to marvel at the northern lights from the comfort of your bed to exhilarating husky experiences.

Highlights include

• Northbound voyage on the Norwegian Coastal Voyage (Kystruten) • 3 nights in a glass roofed cabin (similar to an igloo) • In-depth city tours of Oslo and Bergen • Husky Safari • Snowmobile riding • Reindeer experience with local Sámi-reindeer herders • Aurora hunting • Opportunity for spotting the Northern Lights • Small group sizes, maximum 18 travellers

Helsinki and Tallinn, Estonia independent extension can be added to this itinerary

Please note that all our itineraries, inclusions, dates and prices displayed on this website may change at any time. If you book an itinerary today and have this confirmed it will be the itinerary that is delivered to you. However, the online itinerary on our website may change in the meantime.

As a Certified B Corporation, 50 Degrees North has designed this tour using handpicked local hoteliers and suppliers who share our ethos of delivering services and activities of high social and environmental standards.

The CO2-e per person per day of all tours is carefully measured following each season. We fully offset all emissions of our tours on your behalf, and we constantly look at ways to reduce emissions where possible.

Transportation

Coastal ferry Havila, bus, train and transfers.

Please see the cabin description here.

Here is the Ship Deck plan.

• 4 nights in 4* hotels in central locations, 3 nights at Aurora Cabin / Glass Igloo, 1 nights at Gamme Cabins and 6 nights cruise accommodation in an outside cabin on the coastal ferry
• Meals in total: Daily breakfasts, 7 lunches, 11 dinners and 2 activity snacks & hot drinks. This includes a welcome and goodbye special dinner.
• English speaking Tour Escort
• English speaking local guide for city tours in Oslo & Bergen
• Outdoor clothing for winter activities/safaris (winter boots, balaclavas, woollen socks, mittens, overalls, tube scarf) at the Aurora Cabins
• Free use of snowshoes, cross-country skis, toboggans, ice-skates and kick sledges at the Aurora Cabins
• Free aurora alert at the Aurora Cabins
• Lunch and a guided visit to cultural museum, Sami Siida in Inari
• Norway in a Nutshell with fjord cruise
• Train from Oslo - Myrdal - Flåm, Cruise to Gudgvangen
• Private transfer from Gudvangen to Bergen
• Overnight in a Gamme cabin at the Kirkenes Snowhotel (Only Snow room available for departures on February 19th and March 7th)
• Three nights in Aurora cabins (similar to a glass igloo with open glass roof)
• Voyage from Bergen to Kirkenes with Havila, 6 nights in unspecified outside cabin (15m2) with window, fridge, sofa, desk, TV with international channels, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, toilet & shower (Pre-booked cabin upgrades available on request subject to availability).
• All meals on the Norwegian Coastal voyage
• Transfers: Kirkenes to Inari/Ivalo and to Ivalo Airport
• Winter or Autumn activities depending on the season: King Crab Safari, WINTER ACTIVITIES: Reindeer Farm Visit, Snowmobile Safari, Husky Safari, Aurora hunting by car AUTUMN ACTIVITIES: Husky wagon ride, Panorama sauna & jacuzzi, Floating wood sauna experience, BBQ workshop and Aurora hunting by car. (Please note that the coastal voyage optional activities are not included.)
• 24-hour emergency service
• Taxes and service fees

Not Included

International flight tickets, Norwegian coastal voyage optional excursions, any airport taxes, travel insurance, visas, gratitudes and any items of personal nature.

Portage is not included - you will be responsible for carrying all your luggage.

Arrival transfer in Oslo is not included.

Booking your flight from Ivalo to Helsinki with Finnair in combination with your international flight is a more affordable option.

We can add a Helsinki and Tallinn, Estonia independent extension after this tour finishes. Flights from Ivalo to Helsinki, 2 nights in Helsinki and a day trip to Tallinn, Estonia.

Day 1 - Arrive Oslo; meet your escort & group for the welcome dinner

Arrive Oslo and make your own way to your central hotel in the heart of Oslo. The Norwegian capital has a great deal to offer the discerning traveller. If you arrive early, we can recommend a walk around the centre of town to view the Parliament, the Castle & the Harbour area. Check in will be between 10am - 3pm. Close to the hotel, climb the new Opera House for a chance to orient yourself to this small capital. If you have a few hours, we suggest heading to close by beautiful peninsula of Bygdøy by ferry to visit the Fram Museum this afternoon.

Your escort will meet you this evening in the hotel lobby and have a welcome dinner at Grand Cafe (or similar).

Accommodation

Day 2 - Modern Oslo - Guided city tour

The Norwegian capital has a great deal to offer the discerning traveller, and you have a full day to discover the city. After breakfast, you will meet a specialist Oslo guide for a four hour city tour by minibus.

Afterwards, you can walk around the centre of town to view the Parliament, the Castle, the Harbour area and the new Opera House.

Restaurants

Day 3 - Depart Oslo by early train and enjoy the spectacular journey to Flåm

Catch an early morning train from Oslo to Myrdal. The train journey over Northern Europe’s largest mountain plateau is spectacular. In the comfort of your train, watch fjord scenery with beautiful waterfalls, flowing rivers, deep valleys and mountains.

Arrive in Flåm and have the afternoon to explore this small fjord side village. Optional walks and activities available.

Day 4 - Start with a spectacular 2 hour cruise from Flåm, marvel at the fjords and villages then head to Bergen

The day starts with a spectacular 2-hour fjord cruise from Flåm to the tiny fjord village of Gudvangen. Enjoy the magnificent views of the Aurlandsfjord & the Næroyfjord-a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The boat docks in Gudvangen, and from there the journey continues by a private transfer along the scenic route to Bergen.

On arrival into Bergen, settle into your hotel and perhaps head down to the fish market or fish restaurants by the wharf for dinner.

Day 5 - Explore Bergen - head to the hills above Bergen, museums or fine dine by the water before transferring to the harbour.

After breakfast enjoy a 3-hour walking tour of Bergen , including the famous Bryggen, the old Hanseatic Quarter.

The afternoon is free in Bergen - be sure to enjoy the indoor & outdoor fish markets with their platters, sushi & paella options. Ride on the funicular to Mt. Fløien for the best views of the city and fjords way below. Keep an eye out for your coastal voyage vessel that arrives into Bergen during the afternoon.

In the mid afternoon you will transfer to the cruise terminal for check-in. Settle into your cabin & then meet your escort for your first meal on-board the ship.

Please note, you carry your own luggage onboard from the pier to check in/cabin.

An information meeting is usually held on the evening of departure from Bergen and included details of safety onboard. There is an information folder in each cabin and safety procedures are illustrated on the back of your cabin door and in public areas. The cruise tour leader on board will assist with general information and optional excursions available.

Day 6 - Ålesund- Art Nouveau architecture

A winter expedition along the coast of Norway is a beautiful experience. The landscape is covered in pure white snow; the air is fresh, pure and crisp. Clusters of cosy houses glow on the shores like embers, and the stunning backdrop of snow-clad mountains reflects the polar twilight.

Your ship continues north past skerries and islands before reaching Ålesund. Enjoy examples of Art Nouveau style in the Apotekergate and Kongensgate pedestrian precinct. Make sure you see Ålesund from above, taking 418 steps to the top of Mount Aksla. The Atlantic Sea Park (Atlanterhavsparken)-one of the largest saltwater aquariums in Europe is also worth a visit.

Molde - known as the 'Town of Roses' is another exceptional place to catch beautiful views of 222 mountain peaks at the Molde Panorama.

Leaving Ålesund we head north towards Trondheim. Overnight on board the ship.

Day 7 - Trondheim- Medieval city

When visiting the old royal city of Trondheim, be sure to get a good view from the Old Town Bridge. (Gamle Bybrua) Dating from 1861, this neo-gothic wooden bridge used to be the only way into the town centre. Nidaros Cathedral, built between 1070 and 1300 is Norway's largest Gothic religious edifice. In the neighbouring Archbishop's Palace, the Norwegian Crown Jewels are kept. In the city of Trondheim, the Hanseatic, waterside storehouses built on wooden stilts are just as charming as Stiftsgården- the largest wooden building in Norway and residence for the Royal Family when visiting Trondheim.

When leaving Trondheim, you set course for the beautiful Kjerungskjær lighthouse and thousands of little islands and picturesque rocky outcrops. After passing through the narrow Stokksund, the ship will arrive at the charismatic Rørvik.

Day 8 - Welcome to the Arctic Circle and Lofoten

This morning, between Nesna and Ørnes you will pass a globe on a small islet, which heralds your crossing of the Arctic Circle. The Arctic Circle marks the border to the Arctic region. In summer this means 24-hour daylight- often referred to as the Midnight Sun. During autumn and winter, being above this degree of latitude give you the best chance of experiencing the Northern Lights. Passengers sailing in Arctic waters for the first time are given an Arctic Circle Babtism by Njord, the ruler of the Seven Seas. This comes in the form of an ice cube down you front or back but is entirely optional and great fun to watch if you don't want to participate. Heading towards Bodø the ship sails along the Helgeland coast where you will pass the unique Torghatten mountain with its 30-metre-high, 25-metre-wide and 160-metre-deep hole through the middle.

In the afternoon, your ship gradually closes in on the Lofoten wall mountains towering above the tiny and colourful fishing villages of the Lofoten Islands. This is an extraordinary place to disembark and take a stroll.

These islands are renowned for their small, picturesque fishing villages with their bohemian atmosphere surrounded by majestic granite cliffs and white sandy beaches. Complete your visit with a stroll between the stockfish racks and 'rorbuer', the traditional red fisherman's residences.

Day 9 - Tromsø - The Arctic Capital

During the night the ship navigates the narrow Raftsund strait. After a stop in Harstad situated on the largest island of Norway- Hinnøya, you continue via Finnsnes to Tromsø for a extended stay.

Many of the epic Arctic expeditions used Tromsø as a starting point- the famous explorer Roald Amundsen sourced both crew and suppliers here. With the presence of the Norwegian Polar Institute, the city has cemented its position as the Polar Capital of Norway.

Ishavskatedralen, the Arctic Cathedral is a unique landmark well worth visiting. Experience Tromsø's best views by taking the Fjellheisen cable car to the top of the mountain ledge Storsteinen and maybe enjoy a beer from the worlds northernmost brewery.

After Tromsø we continue our northbound journey into the area along the coast where you have the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Gather on deck or under the glass roof to search for this breathtaking phenomenon.

Day 10 - Honningsvåg and the North Cape

Today you sail through Magerøysund and after an early stop in Hammerfest, you arrive in Honningsvåg. This small port is the gateway to the wonders of the spectacular North Cape, which rises 300m from the ocean, and at 71° 10' 21" north ocean puts you a mere 2,000 km from the Geographical North Pole. Standing atop the North Cape Plateau you will feel like you are at the end of the world.

This area is also known for its birdlife, and Gjesværstappen, a bird sanctuary with up to 250,000 seabirds is home to some High Arctic species that can only be observed here on the Norwegian mainland, including the gorgeous puffins.

In summer you might see herds of reindeer and campsites belonging to the indigenous Sámi people. In winter and spring, sometimes local fishermen from the village of Kjøllefjord visit us to share their catch of the day- Cod and King Crab. And make sure as you approach Kjøllefjord you take note of the prominent and sacred to indigenous Sámi people, Finnkirka rock formation.

Day 11 - Arrive in Kirkenes and join a King Crab Safari adventure

You will arrive in Vadsø early in the morning. Located in the Varanger region this is one of the most attractive and popular bird-watching areas in the Arctic due to it being directly in the path of the birds migrating from east to west.

The last port on the Voyage North is Kirkenes. The well policed Russian border and the Koala peninsula are close by which explains why the road signs are written in both Norwegian and Russian.

Disembark the ship and get ready for a totally unforgettable experience on the frozen fjords of Kirkenes. This is your chance to catch, learn how to cook, and most importantly eat the Arctic King Crab. If you enjoy eating crab, be sure to arrive HUNGRY!

The Arctic King Crab is one of the most sought-after meals in top restaurants, and yet here, you get to eat the best and the freshest, pulled from the fjord in front of your eyes. You all take part in helping to saw the hole in the ice and bring up the catch. You will see how the crab is prepared by your master guide, and you will be taken by snowmobile sled (an experience in itself) to a beautiful farmhouse by the lake.

It is here by a cosy log fire that your King Crab meal awaits. Although presentation is simple, the superb, white leg meat and claws with their particularly juicy and naturally sweet taste puts this meal in a league of its own.

Warm clothing and a helmet is provided. Please note: This tour is done by snowmobile (the fisherman drives the snowmobile with you in a sled behind the snowmobile), and not by divers or in a boat.

Today you will visit and see the snow rooms at the Snowhotel . Explore this hand-built snow hotel and perhaps enjoy a drink at the icebar (extra cost) before heading to your Gamme pine cabin, a short walk away in the same resort.

Your evening will then progress to a delicious 3 course dinner. The food served is charmingly traditional and locally sourced. Your guide will be available to help you prepare for the evening ahead, making sure you are as comfortable as possible. After dinner you will have the opportunity to walk around the snowhotel and say hello to our resident reindeers, and with any luck, catch a glimpse of the northern lights.

Day 12 - Transfer to Inari/Ivalo and check into your Glass Roofed Cabin

After breakfast, take a drive through wild forests and around pristine lakes to Inari, the Sami capital (traditional nomads of Scandinavia, reindeer herders).

In Inari we will have lunch and a guided tour at Sami Siida Museum - the national museum of the Sámi and a national special museum in Finland. The guide will help you to have an in-depth view of Siida’s permanent exhibitions. Siida’s exhibition tours cover the permanent exhibitions of the house.

From Inari we will continue to the Aurora Village, our home for the next 3 nights. (23rd November 2024 departure will stay in a Aurora Cabin at Inari Wilderness)

Check in to your glass roofed Aurora Cabin where you will be spending three nights. You will also get your Winter clothing set (winter boots, balaclavas, woolen socks, mittens, overalls, tube scarf).

Dinner is included at the restaurant.

Day 13 - Reindeer Safari & Snowmobile Safari

After breakfast, meet the reindeers. In the old days people used reindeer for transportation. Today you will meet the local reindeers at work, Manu, Pelokas and Papu. Papu will take you for a short reindeer sleigh ride. In a traditional Kota-tent you will have tea, coffee and a small snack by the open fire while our Sámi-reindeer herder tells you stories about reindeer. You can also try your skills at throwing lasso!

In the afternoon, join an exciting snowmobile safari. You will be kitted out in warm clothing before leaving. Two persons share one snowmobile and there will be an opportunity to change drivers during the safari.

Afterwards, if the skies are clear, head out for a walk to look for the northern lights! Dinner at the restaurant.

Day 14 - Husky Safari and farewell dinner

After breakfast, get ready for today's husky safari - an unforgettable journey through breathtaking winter scenery.

On arrival at the husky farm, dressed in your warm outer thermal suit, gloves and hat, you will be presented with your very own husky team. You will be given a lesson on how to drive the sledge and how to observe important hand signals given by your leader.

Each team consists of about six dogs, you, the driver, and your passenger who is comfortably seated in the wooden sledge. The driver and the passenger can change places during the safari.

In the evening we will enjoy a special farewell dinner. Toast your trip with your fellow group members!

Day 15 - Transfer to Ivalo Airport

After breakfast, transfer to Ivalo Airport. You can add an extra few days in Helsinki and a day tour to Tallinn as an extended package.

Price per person, seaview superior with a double bed. Any other cabin type including twin cabins are subject to price and availability. Upgrade only possible to request for the Coastal Voyage part of itinerary.

NOTE: TWIN bed requests are only possible for the Coastal Voyage, Fretheim, Kirkenes Snow Hotel and Aurora Village. Oslo and Bergen hotels can not be guaranteed.

IMPORTANT: Only Snow room available in Kirkenes for departures on February 19th and March 7th

Important Information

PLEASE NOTE: All departures have unspecified superior outside cabins with windows on the Norwegian coastal voyage, we are able to upgrade cabins on request, but subject to availability.

Activities differ when travelling in Autumn (before the snow arrives). Autumn Activites in Ivalo will be a husky wagon ride, Wood sauna experience and Aurora hunting by car.

We recommend arriving into Oslo a day or so before the tour starts and enjoying this city. The first few days on tour is very busy and not being affected by jetlag will help you enjoy the activities. We also offer an extention tour to Helsinki and Tallinn after your tour.

You can pre-book your optional Norwegian Coastal Voyage excursions with us. However, you can also wait until you are on board and do it then - however, there is a maximum number and they can book out (unlimited numbers on the North Cape tour). It is not possible to pre-book within 2 weeks prior to departure. Excursions and their contents are subject to maximum/minimum numbers and weather/local conditions. Our 50 Degrees North escort will also be available to take you on a casual walk through the main cities that you visit during your Norwegian Coastal voyage.

MEDICAL AND HEALTH INFORMATION:

All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy group travel . During winter, roads and footpaths can be icey so please consider carefully how much luggage you bring as you will be responsible for carrying all the luggage on these outside paths. There is limited portage service in Scandinavia and your tour escorts cannot help you, beyond reason.

Scandinavia is a fairly accessible destination for people with restricted mobility and other disabilities and is actively working to be more accessible every day. However, please note that our group tours are often not suitable for persons with limited accessibility due to inclusions and pace. 50 Degrees North is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability and we can tailor-make independent itineraries for travellers when needed. Please contact us for further details.

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL:

Several of your accommodations on this itinerary are Nordic Choice hotels, who we support due to their outstanding sustainability policies. This group of hotels are ISO 14001 certified (which is given to enterprises that have a high-quality environmental managing system), has launched plastic free initiatives in partnership with WWF, where possible is powered by renewable energy and are taking great strides to reduce water consumption and reduce the use of chemicals. Even though access to water is not an issue in Nordic countries compared to other parts of the world, this hotel is conscious of the energy consumed for heating, and chemicals required for purification, so reduction makes up part of their overall environmental policy. In addition to this they provide sustainable, organic, fair-trade food, and only use sustainably produced palm oil. Your hosts also encourage guests to eat less meat and substitute this for plant-based alternatives.

Your glass igloo hosts in Ivalo were the first accommodation in Northern Lapland to receive the Green Key award, the leading standard for excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. This prestigious eco-label represents a commitment by businesses that their premises adhere to the strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education. Some examples of how they carry this out include offering recycling facilities in all cabins and no longer offering plastic bottles in accommodations, along with protecting the diversity of the surrounding nature, i.e., bird house and insect hotels. Hiking, biking, and skiing tracks are direct from the hotel and as such they encourage low carbon activities such as snowshoeing and toboggans.

Your journey along the iconic Norwegian coastline comprises a large element of this tour. Traditionally the company Hurtigruten had exclusive access to this route, but in 2017 the Norwegian government ended their 130-year monopoly by granting Havila access and allowing them to also take travellers along the coastline. With this change comes innovation; traditionally the ships on this route are powered by fossil fuels however the Havila ships are fitted with batteries and can partly run on renewable hydroelectric power. Not only will the lack of noise and emissions improve the tourist experience and disruption to the environment, but the approach is essential to meet the strict zero emissions regulations for the fjord region to be introduced by the Norwegian government later this decade. We are proud to partner with Havila for this journey, and welcome their newer, greener ships.

Please note this tour is not suitable for children under the age of 14.

Interactive Tour Map

Best time for Northern Lights in Norway

Norway is well known as a 'Northern Lights' hotspot and there is good reason. Above the Arctic Circle, many cities in Norway offer terrific chances to see the lights between mid-September to early April.

Havila Voyage Handy Hints

Our 'helpful hints' guide to your Norwegian Coastal Voyage with Havila. Many of our Scandinavian staff have travelled on a coastal voyage and offer detailed explanations to how it works on-board.

Best time for Northern Lights in Finland

Finland is well known as a 'Northern Lights' travel destination. Above the Arctic Circle, small villages and resorts in the wilderness over unique chances to see the lights between mid-September to early April.

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Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

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Northern Lights Tour Packages

Venture to the northern hemisphere to hunt for the aurora borealis and see this breathtaking natural phenomenon first hand. Your northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor comes with accommodation, activities and transport included.

Witness the aurora borealis dancing above you and explore jaw-dropping landscapes in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Why choose northern lights tours in Iceland?

• Chase the lights on guided excursions from Reykjavík
• Stay at remote lodges with dark skies for aurora viewing
• Discover natural wonders like glaciers and ice caves
• Bathe in hot springs surrounded by wintry scenery

Golden Circle Classic - Winter

Golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, northern lights circle tour, iceland's famous ring road.

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Hunt for the aurora borealis in Norway and admire the dramatic mountains, coastline and islands of the north.

Why go aurora-hunting in Norway?

• Marvel at the lights on an aurora coastal cruise
• Embark on a dog sledding northern lights safari
• Enjoy guided aurora excursions from Tromsø
• Stay at the extraordinary Kirkenes Snow Hotel

Northern Lights by Train and Cruise

Tromsø, flåm & the fjords, best of northern norway classic - 71° north cape, northern lights & cruise, northern lights norway classic.

Experience snowy scenery, Sami culture and winter activities in Finnish or Swedish Lapland on a northern lights adventure.

Why chase the northern lights in Lapland?

• Enjoy an enchanting aurora tour by snowmobile
• Gaze up at the northern lights from a cosy glass igloo
• Stay in a room made of ice at the legendary ICEHOTEL
• Witness the aurora dancing above Abisko National Park

Best of Lapland - Guaranteed Departure

December 18, 2024, best of rovaniemi - classic, santa claus village & dog sledding, lapland adventure - aurora sky station & icehotel.

Journey to a remote land and seek out the northern lights in Svalbard, an Arctic archipelago at the edge of the world.

Why look for the northern lights in Svalbard?

• Experience the mesmerising light of the polar night
• Visit the world’s northernmost town, Longyearbyen
• Go on thrilling dog sledding and snowmobiling tours
• See polar bears and seals in the wild

Best of Svalbard Winter - Express

Best of svalbard winter - classic, need any help so far get in touch with us.

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About Your Northern Lights Vacation

Discover the magic of the aurora borealis* on an unforgettable northern lights tour. Explore beautiful destinations in the Nordics on an itinerary that local travel experts have meticulously organised for you.

When you book a northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor, you get:

• An authentic travel experience planned by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant to organise your tour • All relevant bookings for your chosen package • A detailed online personal itinerary • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 emergency phone support for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your winter tour. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

*Please note, the northern lights are a natural occurrence and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a highly rated tour agency in Northern Europe. Our travel experts create authentic journeys filled with the best activities and destinations. They are locally based and add their in-depth knowledge to all northern lights itineraries.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when Tripadvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Stress-free experience

Our travel consultants will plan and book your trip on your behalf. You’ll receive a personalised itinerary with your accommodation and activities all arranged for you. That way you can leave all the practicalities to someone else, while you relax and look forward to your northern lights adventure.

Flexible tour options

The Nordic Visitor travel team has designed our northern lights packages to include the very best routes and experiences. However, if you’d like to add extra nights, attractions or destinations, your personal travel consultant will happily tailor your northern lights package.

You are in good hands

Should you encounter any unexpected weather or events during your tour, don’t worry. Nordic Visitor will be there for you throughout your trip. We will take care of reworking your itinerary while keeping you safe and informed. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 emergency helpline for peace of mind.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR REVIEWS

Here’s what our wonderful customers liked about their northern lights experiences.

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but... read more

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but this experience has given me no doubt in using Nordic Visitor again to book a holiday in the future to another Nordic destination.

Kim Singapore

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use... read more

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use Nordic Visitor again for future vacations.

Northern Lights Vacation Highlights

Picture yourself in a stunning winter landscape in the northern hemisphere. You’re wrapped up warm and the world’s greatest light show is about to begin. Opt for a Nordic Visitor northern lights tour, and you could…

• Take a guided tour from Reykjavík to hunt for the northern lights in Iceland
• Explore ice caves on a guided glacier hike in Vatnajökull , home to Europe’s largest glacier
• Venture to the remote Westfjords to chase the aurora and try snowshoeing
• Go dog sledding and snowmobiling in Tromsø , Norway, or Longyearbyen , Svalbard
• Discover charming fishing villages, mountains and marine wildlife in the Lofoten Islands
• Sample Norwegian delicacies in Kirkenes , such as red king crab, Arctic char and cloudberries
• Join an unforgettable snowmobiling , dog sledding or snowshoeing aurora safari in Lapland
• Visit the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park for dinner with a view of the northern lights
• Stay in an ice hotel or glass igloo, such as the ICEHOTEL , SnowCastle or SnowHotel

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS

For tips on viewing the northern lights, read on. We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions about Nordic aurora borealis tours here to help you make your dream trip a reality.

Alternatively, find out how to make a booking , have a look at our FAQs , or learn about our Book With Confidence travel plan.

1. ARE THE NORDICS SAFE TO TRAVEL TO?

Yes, the Nordics are widely regarded as safe for visitors. Actually, the Nordic nations – Iceland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland – continually rank among the top 10 safest places in the world . This is because they have low crime rates, good standards of healthcare, and excellent road safety.

2. WHAT ARE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon. You can see them illuminating the sky when charged particles from solar flares collide with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere, near the North Pole. This collision creates varied shapes and colours that ripple, flash or glow in the sky.

3. WHAT MONTHS CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS?

You have the best chance of spotting the aurora borealis in the winter months – October to April. To make out the colours of the aurora, you need dark winter nights. In the summer, daylight hours are so long that you’ll find the sky is too bright to see the glowing lights.

As it is a natural occurrence, spotting the northern lights is not guaranteed. But you can increase your chances of witnessing them by visiting the Arctic Circle in winter.

4. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

As you need a dark sky to distinguish the aurora, the best time to see the northern lights is at night. The peak hours tend to be between 11 PM and 2 AM, which is why your guided tour will likely depart after 9 PM.

You could also stay at a hotel with an aurora wake-up service. The staff will let you know if the lights come out late in the night, so you don’t have to stay up waiting for them!

The best time of year to see the northern lights is winter, between October and April. This is when Nordic nights are the longest and darkest, which means you have higher chances of catching sight of the aurora.

Winter is a great time to visit the Nordics for other reasons too. Check out these guides to the top winter activities you can enjoy:

Things to do in Norway in winter

Things to do in Iceland in winter

Things to do in Lapland in winter

5. WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

You can see the aurora borealis at high northern latitudes, especially around the Arctic Circle, as this is where solar activity is strongest. That’s why the Nordic region is the best place to see the northern lights. Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Svalbard all lie within or near the Arctic Circle.

In fact, Iceland and the northern regions of Norway, Sweden and Finland are located within the “aurora zone”. Also known as the “northern lights belt”, this is a latitudinal band between 65-72°N where high auroral frequency and intensity occurs. Visit this zone for the best chance of seeing the aurora.

Learn more about where and when to see the northern lights with these expert guides:

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Europe

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Norway

6. WHERE CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS IN SCANDINAVIA?

Norway, Sweden and Denmark are the countries that make up Scandinavia. If you want to go to Scandinavia to hunt for the aurora borealis, your best bet is to visit the northern parts of this region – Swedish Lapland and Northern Norway. It is unlikely you’ll see the aurora in Denmark.

You can witness the northern lights in the neighbouring Nordic nations of Finland and Iceland too. Although these countries aren’t technically part of Scandinavia, they have many similarities and also happen to be great places to catch the aurora borealis!

Lapland – an area covering northern Sweden and Finland – is a fantastic destination for aurora chasing. You could head to Rovaniemi and Kemi in Finnish Lapland, or Abisko National Park near Kiruna in Swedish Lapland.

Or visit Northern Norway for your aurora borealis tour. Take your pick from Norwegian destinations such as Tromsø, Svalbard, Kirkenes, the Lofoten Islands and Nordkapp (North Cape).

Alternatively, go in search of the aurora borealis in Iceland. With its wide open skies and location near the Arctic Circle, you could see the lights from anywhere in the country. For your best chances though, head away from towns with street lights so you can spot the colours more easily.

In Scandinavia you could seek out the aurora borealis in the countryside or on the coast. Plus, not only can you enjoy northern lights tours, but also bucket list activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and staying in an ice hotel.

Discover more reasons to visit Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland on our ultimate Scandinavia guide .

7. HOW TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

To see the aurora borealis, you need to be in a northern country on a clear, dark night, away from artificial lights. Although the aurora don’t show up on demand, these top tips will give you the best chances of witnessing them.

Firstly, make sure you visit northern regions close to the Arctic Circle. Iceland, Northern Norway, Svalbard and Lapland are the best destinations to see the northern lights in Europe.

Secondly, time your aurora borealis tour for the European winter. The long, dark nights will help you spot the colours lighting up the sky.

Thirdly, avoid light pollution found in built-up areas. This means heading into the countryside where there is less artificial light compared to towns and cities. You could spend some days out in remote areas, or opt for guided evening tours from your city base instead.

Another thing you can do for northern light viewings is check the weather and aurora forecast . Although you can’t do this very far in advance, during your trip you’ll be able to find out if the evening will be clear of cloud or rain and if solar activity will be strong.

You’d also increase your chances of seeing the aurora borealis by taking a guided tour. A local expert would accompany you and take you to all the best spots, sharing their insider knowledge with you.

Read our article on how to see the northern lights for more viewing tips.

8. HOW LONG DO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS LAST?

When the aurora borealis are treating you to their glorious light show, you might find they glow for a few minutes. The lights can show up several times in one night, or last for a couple of hours in one go.

There is no rule as to how long the aurora borealis last, of course, as they are a natural occurrence. If you see them for yourself, no doubt you’ll cherish every second of their beautiful magic.

9. HOW DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH THE AURORA BOREALIS?

The northern lights can be tricky to capture on camera, but with some preparation and the right equipment you can do it. Here are some top tips for photographing the northern lights:

• Use an SLR camera with manual focus
• Bring a tripod as you’ll need to do a long exposure shot
• Get a remote shutter release so you don’t have to touch the camera at all
• Use a slow shutter speed of between 15 and 30 seconds

For more tips on photographing the aurora, see our northern lights travel guide .

10. WHAT SHOULD YOU WEAR TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

It can get rather cold in the Nordic winter, especially if there’s a cool wind. The last thing you want is to feel the chill while you hunt for the aurora borealis at night. That’s why it’s important you pack the right clothing before your trip.

Many northern lights tours will provide you with thermal suits to help you stay warm while you’re out chasing the aurora. It’s also recommended that you wear warm layers underneath.

Here is an essential packing list:

• Insulated jacket and trousers (windproof and waterproof)
• Thermal wool underlayers
• Warm hat, gloves and scarf
• Warm and sturdy boots

Get more packing advice by reading our experts’ tips and tricks on dressing for northern lights viewing .

11. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

Yes, you can select your chosen arrival date online when reserving your Nordic Visitor tour. For northern lights packages, the arrival dates are between October and April as this is the aurora viewing season.

12. CAN I EXTEND MY TOUR BY A DAY OR TWO?

Absolutely! If you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, you can request this when booking your tour online. Your dedicated travel consultant will get in touch to confirm the extra days with you.

If you are taking a small group tour, you can add extra nights to the start or end of your trip. This is because the group tour itself is fixed as you will be exploring with fellow visitors on a fixed itinerary.

13. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TICKETS?

You should book your flights once your Nordic Visitor package is confirmed. We recommend you check flights beforehand to find appropriate dates and prices, but only purchase them after your travel consultant has secured your northern lights tour.

Your Nordic Visitor consultant will send you a confirmation email with all the details you need to buy suitable flights.

14. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY TRIP?

The weather is somewhat unpredictable in the Nordics, no matter the time of year you visit. In winter you should always come prepared for cold temperatures, which means bringing warm clothing. Here are the essential items that we recommend you pack for your trip:

• Warm jumpers or fleeces
• Waterproof and thermal jackets
• Gloves, scarves and hats
• Insulated, waterproof boots
• Thermal underlayers
• Waterproof trousers

For more detailed information on what to pack for your Nordic tour, read our travel guides for Iceland , Norway and Lapland .

Get in touch with us to start planning your trip or for more advice on how to see the aurora borealis. Our travel experts will be delighted to arrange an unforgettable northern lights tour for you.

Our main phone number is +354 578 20 80

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Blog Articles

How to see the northern lights: viewing tips, best times & places to see the northern lights in europe, best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland, a little something about the northern lights.

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Northern Lights in Tromsø

Experience the aurora borealis in beautiful norway, welcome to tromsø.

Have you ever dreamed of seeing the northern lights in Tromsø, Norway? This magical natural phenomenon is a breathtaking sight to behold and one that you will remember for the rest of your life. Tromsø, located in the northern part of Norway, is known as one of the world’s best places to witness the Aurora Borealis.

With its dark winter nights and clear skies, Tromsø provides a perfect backdrop for the dancing colors of the northern lights. In this guide I’ll share with you everything you need to know to plan a trip to Tromsø to see the northern lights and create unforgettable memories.

Discover The Best Northern Lights Tours in Tromsø

Aurora minibus tour.

This tour is an all-inclusive, small-group tour that takes you on a hunt for the northern lights in the Tromsø region. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who will share interesting facts and stories about the northern lights, as well as hot drinks and snacks to keep you warm and comfortable during the trip.

About this activity

Highlights – See the northern lights – Warm up by the bonfire – Capture amazing photographs!

Duration – 7 hours  

Live tour guide – English

What’s included – Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts – Reserve now & pay later – Free WiFi on the bus – Thermal suit to stay warm!

Aurora Photography

This is a small-group tour that takes you on a chase for the northern lights! The tour is led by professional photographers who will provide guidance on how to capture the best photos using your camera or smartphone. The photographers will also take photos of you with the northern lights!

Highlights – Capture the northern lights – Comfortable transport – Learn amazing photography skills!

What’s included – Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts – Reserve now & pay later – Hot drinks & snacks – Photography tutorial

Combine chasing the Northern Lights with other activities!

Aurora & huskies.

Experience the enchantment of Tromsø under the dancing Northern Lights alongside 200 huskies. Immerse yourself in a cozy camp offering splendid vantage points for Aurora sightings. Unwind by the crackling campfire as you indulge in delectable Bacalao and mouthwatering homemade chocolate cake.

Highlights – Camp fire and marshmallows! – Hug and play with the huskies – Enjoy a warm meal!

Duration – 4 hours  

What’s included – Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts – Reserve now & pay later – Thermal suits and boots – Transportation from & to Tromsø

Northern light cruise

Savor an Arctic tapas feast as you silently cruise around Tromsø Island aboard a hybrid and eco-friendly electric catamaran . Delve into the hidden world of nocturnal marine life and seize the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing northern lights painting the beautiful Norwegian sky.

Highlights – Hunt the northern lights! – Enjoy a delicious Nordic meals! – See beautiful arctic landscapes

Duration – 3.5 hours  

What’s included – Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts – Reserve now & pay later – Professional guide

Stay updated with real-time weather forecasts tailored to maximize your chances of witnessing this celestial spectacle. Delve into the rich history and culture of Tromsø, learning about its deep-rooted connection to the Northern Lights. Explore the vibrant festivals and events that celebrate this natural wonder throughout the year. Planning your stay? Browse our curated selection of Northern Lights hotels and lodges , offering unparalleled views and comfort. And for aspiring photographers, we provide expert photography tips and techniques to capture the aurora’s ephemeral beauty.

Let us be your guide to an unforgettable Northern Lights adventure in Tromsø !

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes the northern lights, and why are they visible in tromsø.

The northern lights are caused by the interaction between electrically charged particles from the sun and the Earth’s magnetic field. These charged particles, also known as solar wind, are constantly streaming from the sun towards the Earth. When the solar wind collides with the Earth’s magnetic field, it creates a magnetic storm. This storm causes the charged particles to spiral along the magnetic field lines towards the Earth’s poles.

As the charged particles approach the Earth’s atmosphere, they collide with the gas molecules in the atmosphere, such as nitrogen and oxygen. This collision causes the gas molecules to become excited and release energy in the form of light, creating the northern lights.

Tromsø is located within the auroral oval, an area around the Earth’s magnetic poles with a high concentration of auroral activity. This means that Tromsø is in an ideal location to witness the northern lights.

Additionally, Tromsø’s latitude and longitude also make it a prime spot to see the Aurora Borealis. Its location at 69° 40′ N, above the Arctic Circle, means that it is within the auroral zone, where the northern lights are most frequently visible.

What are the different colors of the northern lights, and what causes them?

The Northern Lights can appear in different colors, including green, pink, purple, yellow, and white. The colors are caused by the interaction between charged particles from the sun and the Earth’s magnetic field.

Green is the most common color of the Aurora borealis and is caused by oxygen molecules colliding with charged particles. The higher the altitude, the more likely it is that the aurora will appear green.

Pink and purple auroras occur when particles collide with nitrogen molecules, which produce a reddish or purplish hue. Yellow and white auroras are also caused by collisions between charged particles and oxygen and nitrogen atoms, but they occur at lower altitudes and are less common.

The intensity and color of the aurora borealis can vary depending on the strength of the solar wind, the Earth’s magnetic field, and other atmospheric factors.

Where is the best spot to see the northern lights in Tromsø (and can you see them in the city)?

The best spot to see the northern lights in Tromsø is away from the city lights, where the skies are dark and clear. One great tour option to see the northern lights is the Tromso Northern Lights Cable Car Excursion . This tour takes you up Mount Storsteinen on the Fjellheisen Cable Car, where you’ll have a spectacular view of the northern lights from an altitude of 421 meters. Click here to get the best ticket deal!

The tour starts at the cable car station, where you’ll board the Fjellheisen Cable Car for a scenic ride to the top of Mount Storsteinen. As you ascend to the top, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Tromsø and the surrounding fjords.

Once you reach the summit, you’ll step out onto a large viewing platform, where you’ll have an unobstructed view of the night sky.

What are your chances of seeing the northern lights in Tromsø?

While the chances of seeing the northern lights in Tromsø vary, it’s estimated that visitors have about an 80% chance of seeing them during a three-night stay under favorable conditions . However, it’s important to note that the Aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. You will need clear and dark skies without snowy or cloudy conditions.

What should you wear when chasing the northern lights in Tromsø?

When chasing the northern lights in Tromsø, it’s important to dress warmly and in layers. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, and you’ll want to stay warm and comfortable. Dress in thermal layers, a windproof jacket, and warm boots. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect your extremities.

In addition to dressing warmly, it’s also important to wear the right type of clothing. Avoid cotton, as it will absorb moisture and can make you feel colder. Instead, choose synthetic materials that wick moisture away from your body, such as fleece or wool. You may also want to consider bringing along hand warmers and toe warmers, especially if you’re planning on spending an extended amount of time outside.

It’s also a good idea to bring a small backpack with you to carry extra layers, snacks, and water. Many tours will provide warm beverages like hot chocolate or coffee, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own water bottle just in case.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring your camera! Seeing the northern lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you’ll want to capture the moment. Make sure your camera is fully charged and has enough memory to store all your photos. Keep reading to get the best tips on photography and the Aurora borealis!

Can you see the northern lights without a tour?

Yes, it is possible to see the northern lights in Tromsø without a tour. However, going on a tour increases your chances of seeing them as tour operators have experience and knowledge of the best viewing spots and can take you to locations with optimal viewing conditions.

If you’re planning to go on your own by car, it’s important to research the best spots for viewing and to check the weather forecast. It’s also important to remember to dress warmly and be prepared for a long wait as the Northern Lights can be unpredictable and may not appear at all.

How much does a northern lights tour cost in Tromsø? 

On average, a northern lights tour in Tromsø will cost around 120-200 Euros or 140-240 USD per person. The cost can vary depending on the type of tour and the inclusions.

The duration of the tour can range from 4-6 hours for a minibus tour to 7-8 hours for a more comprehensive tour that includes a meal. It’s important to note that while these tours can be a bit pricey, they often provide transportation, warm clothing, and knowledgeable guides to ensure the best possible experience of viewing the lights.

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12 Best Places to See the Northern Lights Around the World

From the U.S. to Scandinavia, here's where to view the magnificent northern lights phenomenon.

Bublik Polina / Getty Images

You'll never forget the first time you see the Northern Lights, a stunning natural phenomenon caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with atoms in Earth's atmosphere. The lights form an "auroral oval" over the geomagnetic North Pole, so they occur most frequently in any area within approximately 1,550 miles of it. You'll have the best chance of viewing them when the skies are clear and dark, free from light pollution from cities and the moon. That makes the place on our list, many of which have long nights and ideal auroral latitudes throughout the year, safe bets for viewing.

From Churchill, Canada, to Finnish Lapland and a few unexpected U.S. destinations, here are the best places to see the northern lights.

• Best tourist destination: Iceland
• Underrated hidden gem: The Yukon Territory, Canada
• Best for families: Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania
• Best for couples: Finland
• Best for solo travelers: Sweden

Fairbanks, Alaska

Courtesy of Sherman Hogue / Explore Fairbanks

The bitter cold that often comes with chasing the aurora can be a real deterrent, but what if you could see the lights while soaking in a natural hot tub? Enter Fairbanks' Chena Hot Springs Resort , whose boulder-enclosed lake offers the opportunity to enjoy a warm soak while you take in the light show. Fairbanks lies directly beneath a band of auroral activity, meaning from late August to the end of April the town regularly experiences a celestial display of green, yellow, and purple. The phenomenon is most frequently seen between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m., but the early-to-bed crowd need not worry. Chena Hot Springs Resort guests can request a wake-up call when the aurora is spotted in the sky.

Norway has no shortage of prime vantage points. First and foremost is Svalbard , a string of Arctic islands midway between continental Norway and the North Pole. Because the archipelago experiences polar night, or perpetual darkness, from mid-November to February, it offers visitors double the opportunity to see the lights and is the only inhabited place in the world where you can experience the phenomenon during the day. Join a two-hour snowcat safari or brave the cold on a three-hour snowmobile tour with a stop for warm drinks and biscuits.

Tromsø is northern Norway's largest city and just so happens to be in the middle of the auroral oval. Visitors can choose from several tours during its dark season, from September through mid-April. One fun way to see them is to ride a cable car up Mount Storsteinen , which provides one of the best views of the northern lights in the whole city. Or, if you prefer to experience the magic while sipping Akvavit, slide into a table at the Skybar at Clarion Hotel The Edge .

North of the Arctic Circle in Finnish Lapland, surrounded by towering pines, is a surreally beautiful place to experience the aurora. We recommend dozing off while watching the dancing display from within a glass igloo at the romantic Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort from late August through April. In addition to rooms made of glass, there's a traditional log house as well as huts carved out of snow and ice. The resort organizes aurora hunting expeditions for those who wish to watch the lights while skiing down a slope, riding a reindeer-drawn sleigh, snowmobiling, or sleigh riding.

Accommodations for enjoying the northern lights abound throughout Finland, ranging from seaside glass villas and lakeside domes to cabins with large windows and glass roofs. The lights appear over Finland about 200 nights per year so you couldn't pick a better destination for an auroral vacation.

Courtesy of Mads Pihl / Visit Greenland

With minimal light pollution and near-perfect visibility in some places, Greenland provides exceptional odds for viewing the milky-green lights. A three- or four-night stay during the aurora season (late September to early April) offers the best chance of spotting them. Settle into the Hotel Arctic on the edge of the Ilulissat Icefjord, where most of the rooms feature stunning views of the fjord and its impressive icebergs.

If roughing it is more your style, plan a trip to Kangerlussuaq , which gets about 300 clear nights a year, providing prime conditions for aurora viewing. The local guide company Albatros Arctic Circle specializes in northern lights tours, including one that involves camping on the Greenland Ice Sheet , an experience typically reserved for researchers and expeditioners.

The Yukon Territory, Canada

Courtesy of Wolfgang Bublitz / Northern Lights Resort & SPA

From late August to mid-April, the northern lights swirl across the sky above Canada's Yukon Territory . Depending on cloud conditions, light pollution, and the night's auroral activity, you could spend hours watching the neon shades of green and yellow. Learn about the science and folklore surrounding the colors at the Northern Lights Space and Science Centre in Watson Lake. Book one of the glass chalets at the Northern Lights Resort and Spa in Whitehorse, then follow your night out in the cold with a day of pampering at the spa. The hotel's all-inclusive winter aurora and activity package  offers nightly guided aurora viewing and photography opportunities.

During the autumn and winter months, the aurora can be seen across the U.K., and as far south as Kent and East Anglia in England. But your best bet is to head for the northernmost parts of the Scottish Highlands or the Shetland Islands, where the northern lights are known as the "Mirrie Dancers." Book the Keeper's Cottage at Sumburgh Head , a restored Shetland lighthouse overlooking a puffin nesting area on the Atlantic, or venture to the Isle of Lewis to see the display above the Calanais Standing Stones , a circular formation of rocks erected thousands of years ago. Before you go, sign up for AuroraWatch UK alerts about viewing conditions so you never miss a sighting.

Churchill, Canada

Christine Haines / Getty Images

In Churchill , Canada, you can watch the lights dance over a family of polar bears from the comfort of your sleeper car. The Manitoba town, which experiences auroral activity more than 300 nights a year, is a top destination for seeing the majestic animals in the wild. Operated by Natural Habitat Adventures, a conservation-focused travel partner of the World Wildlife Fund, the Tundra Lodge offers accommodations inspired by train cars in prime bear-spotting territory. If you want to deepen your understanding of the wildlife or the northern lights, book one of the Churchill Northern Studies Centre's multiday educational tours.

Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

You don't necessarily have to go far north to glimpse the northern lights. Isolated from large cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania is committed to preserving its exceptionally dark skies. The area is classified as a Gold Level Dark Sky Park, the highest designation given by DarkSky . Inside, you'll find special light fixtures that don't inhibit visibility and strict rules about flashlights and car headlights, all meant to prevent light pollution.

Even if you miss the aurora borealis, on a clear night you're all but guaranteed an exceptional view of the stars. Check the park's website for special events like astronomy programs and public viewing nights. You can also keep track of when and where the northern lights will appear via a forecast monitoring service, like this one from The University of Alaska Fairbanks .

While Hotel Rangá in southern Iceland offers a range of cold-weather activities, ranging from whale watching and glacier tours to freshwater fishing, seeing the northern lights is a major highlight — there's even an on-site observatory with telescopes and talks led by local astronomers. Located in the countryside, the hotel experiences minimal light pollution, which makes for optimal viewing conditions from September to April.

Closer to Reykjavik in Nesjavellir, the Ion Adventure Hotel's Northern Lights Bar features dimmed lighting and wraparound windows so guests can watch the aurora from inside, with a drink in hand.

At the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, guests can choose from traditional hotel rooms, chalets, or special ice rooms and suites, set in a separate structure that's rebuilt every winter. Temperatures within the ice structure range from about 23 degrees to 18 degrees Fahrenheit, but don't worry — they come equipped with thermal, expedition-style sleeping bags to keep you warm.

The Icehotel offers various excursions including a snowmobile safari in the wilderness and nightly photography tours so you can catch the phenomenon in a natural setting away from light pollution. Guests can also plan an excursion to the nearby Aurora Sky Station  in Abisko. Located about 3,000 feet above sea level, you'll experience little light pollution and optimal viewing conditions. The station gets aurora views on 70 percent of the nights it's open (from November to March).

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Diana Robinson Photography / Getty Images

In northern Michigan, Headlands International Dark Sky Park is a wonderful place to view the elusive northern lights — elusive because from here, predictions can only be made within a day or two of their appearance. According to the park's website, you'll have the best shot of seeing them around the spring and fall equinoxes each year. Check the Clear Sky Chart and the park's schedule of events before you head out, as there are several astronomy-related workshops and educational programs available year-round. That way, even if you miss the aurora, it's still worth a visit, especially if you're looking to learn more about our incredible solar system.

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Located about four hours north of Minneapolis, Voyageurs National Park offers visitors the chance to view the northern lights on dark, clear nights all year long, although your likelihood of seeing it increases during the winter months. Check the local weather forecast, and keep an eye on other important resources like the Alaska Geophysical Institute's Aurora Forecast website , which lets you see how active the aurora should be up to a month before your trip. Facing north, keep your eyes peeled for colorful streaks or cloud-like patches that fluctuate in brightness. The Milky Way, passing satellites, and shooting stars may also make an appearance, so there's never a dull moment during your visit.

Related Articles

I traveled beyond the Arctic Circle to see the Northern Lights. Here are 4 things to know before you go.

• I traveled north of the Arctic Circle to a tiny village in Finland for a chance to see the northern lights.
• I booked a tour as far north as I could afford for the best chance of seeing the colorful auroras.
• The location made viewing the northern lights easier, but they were different than I expected.

In February, I finally checked off one of my top bucket list items — seeing the aurora borealis, better known as the northern lights.

The auroras occur when charged solar particles from the sun interact with the Earth's upper atmosphere, resulting in an array of colorful lights beaming from the planet's poles. They occur year-round but can only be seen in winter months during the long polar nights.

I journeyed all the way to Finland's northernmost municipality, Utsjoki, about 280 miles north of the Arctic Circle. The trek required two plane rides from New York to Ivalo, Finland, via Helsinki, plus a two-hour drive deep into the snow-covered Lapland.

The secluded village is home to Aurora Holidays , the tour company I used for my trip. I paid about $2,000 total, which included guides, full room and board, a village tour, reindeer feeding, a king crab fishing trip in Norway, and dog sledding — though prices have increased since I booked. Flights on Finnair were another $1,000.

Aurora Holidays boasts a 100% success rate over five years of seeing the auroras thanks to a lack of light pollution in the northern location — and, fortunately, the streak continued on my trip.

Here are four things to know when planning a trip to see the aurora lights and why I recommend getting as far north as possible to maximize your chances — even if it means facing bone-chilling temperatures and relying on a little bit of luck.

Location, location, location

While recent environmental phenomena have made the northern lights visible in places as far south as England and Denmark, the aurora borealis are best viewed within the Article Circle.

The far north is hard to reach, though, and popular viewing spots like Fairbanks, Alaska, Tromsø, Norway, and Canada's Northwest Territories sit below the 66° 34' N latitude that defines the region.

Plus, these often-crowded tourist destinations have light pollution that requires people to venture out of the city into darker areas to see the lights.

Utsjoki, however, is so remote that it offers complete darkness during the long polar nights. Even better, my accommodation was perfectly situated facing north across Lapland — meaning I could see the auroras from my cabin porch.

"A lot of people don't know that for the highest possibilities to see the lights, location matters," Aurora Holiday's owner, Tiina Salonen, told me during the tour. "The rule of thumb is that the further north you travel, the less [solar] activity you need to have lights in the sky."

Other places within the Arctic Circle, like Abisko National Park in Sweden or Ilulissat, Greenland, are also good viewing spots.

Pack for below-zero temperatures

During my trip, the temperature reached -8°F, which is even colder than what I experienced in Antarctica . Fortunately, my previous polar expedition taught me how to pack.

I opted for a merino wool base layer from REI, which I prefer due to its moisture-wicking abilities . I also wore a fleece pullover and a Kathmandu puffer as my mid-layers and a 600-fill jacket as my shell. I also wore snow pants, ski gloves, wool socks, a fleece buff, a beanie, and hiking boots.

All of that combined, I was easily warm enough to stand outside under the lights. I also recommend bringing hand and foot warmers if you plan to do other winter activities like snowshoeing or snowmobiling.

One thing to remember about going to extremely remote places like northern Lapland is how far you are away from a proper hospital — the closest to Utsjoki being a few hour's drive, according to Tiina. Wearing the right clothes to prevent frost bite or illness is important, but it wouldn't hurt to get travel insurance , too — just in case.

The vibrant colors that appear in photos are not what humans see

Not every color of the northern auroras is visible to the naked eye. During my trip, I could clearly see streaks of green and white, but the intensity and array of colors were more vivid in photos taken on my iPhone.

Tiina explained this is because cameras can take in more light than a human's nighttime vision can, therefore allowing it to capture otherwise invisible colors, like pink, red, and purple.

I'll admit that the auroras were much fainter than I expected, but that didn't take away from the beauty. Nevertheless, some people may be disappointed it isn't the extravagant Disney-like display social media sometimes makes it seem.

Seeing the lights takes a little bit of luck

During my six-day, five-night tour in Utsjoki, we only saw the auroras once — which is the reality of lights chasing, and why I booked a longer vacation to better my odds of seeing them.

That night was perfectly clear, and the solar activity was relatively strong, allowing the beautiful green beams to dance across the sky. The other nights, however, were too cloudy to see anything.

"The lights are there, but if it is super cloudy — we can't, of course, see them," Tiina told me. I noticed this when I was further south in Ivalo before and after the tour in Utsjoki. I couldn't see the auroras either night I was there due to the clouds, even though the online tracker said they were out.

Sometimes tour companies like Tiina's can drive around to find pockets where the auroras are visible, but it's not always possible — which makes seeing the lights a roll of the dice and why I now warn people to manage their expectations before booking a trip.

"Even here in Utsjoki, we cannot guarantee the lights — after all, it is a natural phenomenon, and Mother Nature is in charge," Tiina said.

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