northern lights tours from bergen norway

The auroras occur at the poles because the atmosphere above a magnetic pole is weaker and therefore more particles from the sun manage to enter the earth's atmosphere.

The phenomenon appears as coloured lights. Many colours have been reported but green or pink are common, the colour seen is dictated by the type of gas particle involved in the collision. These ethereal lights can take many forms - from scattered patches of light to streamers, arcs, or gyrating curtains. 

Can I see the Northern Lights in Bergen?

Yes, you can see northern lights in Bergen.

While at times it is possible to see the Northern Lights from Bergen, their appearance is sporadic and uncommon compared to areas in Northern Norway. 

If you are really determined to see the Northern Lights during your time in Bergen, don't make the mistake of waiting for the lights to come to you. Commit to making a trip to where the lights are more likely to be visible.

Outdoor activities

Explore all the mountains in Bergen, and find out everyhing you need to know about outdoor activities in Norway.

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Northern Lights cruise from Bergen

As you set sail from Bergen, you'll embark on a magnificent journey through the Norwegian Fjords, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and immersed in a rich cultural heritage. Bergen's charm, from its historic wharf to its vibrant city life, provides a perfect starting point for your cruise adventure. Explore the city's attractions, indulge in its culinary delights, and embrace the warmth of its locals. Whether you're captivated by the natural wonders or enthralled by the cultural experiences, Bergen as a departure port promises an unforgettable voyage through the Norwegian Fjords.

The cruise to see Northern Lights sails through surreal fjords of Norway , making stops at ports like Tromsø and Alta , where visitors can immerse themselves in Scandinavian charm and heritage. Further west, Reykjavik , the capital of Iceland , offers a vibrant mix of modern innovation and rich history. Yet, it is the untouched, raw beauty of these destinations that will truly take your breath away. From the ship, you can admire the diverse terrains, including towering cliffs, crystalline glaciers, and tranquil Arctic waters .

Northern Lights out of Bergen Cruise Schedule 2024

This voyage is a thrill for those with a spirit of adventure. During winter port stops, guided tours allow exploration of snow-laden landscapes and bustling city centers. In Iceland, soaking in the geothermal Blue Lagoon, under the spectacle of Northern Lights is a must, while Norway presents opportunities for glacier tours, cross-country skiing, and the chance to marvel at the ethereal Polar Nights. The off-board activities furnish a plethora of options for distinctive, unforgettable winter experiences.

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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

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Oslo - Bergen - Kirkenes - Bergen

Complete Norway | Arctic Winter & Northern Lights

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Voyage overview

Combine an exciting winter Arctic adventure on our coastal round trip voyage with a land, rail and sea tour exploring the stunning mountain and fjord scenery between Oslo and Bergen.

Discover our entire original coastal route with 34 ports of call, sailing past more than 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains

Start off in Oslo and travel along the famous Norway in a Nutshell route to Bergen via Flam and Voss. Includes a ride on one of the worlds most scenic railway trips, The Flam Railway

Cross the Arctic Circle and hunt the Northern Lights

Wide choice of optional excursions and onboard Hurtigruten Guides who lead included activities and interpret the cultural and natural treasures on your voyage

The day-by-day programme will give you some ideas about what you can see during your voyage, but bear in mind that this itinerary is just an indication. After all, this is a sailing where the elements rule and weather conditions might vary.

Arrive In Oslo

Arrive in Oslo and spend the day exploring the historical and beautiful Norwegian capital.

Its compact size makes it ideal to discover and experience the best, the city has to offer. For the cultural lovers, the Bydgdøy peninsula is home to several museums like the outdoor museum, Folkemuseet and the Viking ship museum. Downtown Oslo, is bustling with trendy restaurants, bars, cafes and open spaces such as the Vigeland Sculpture Park and Ekeberg Park.

At the heart of the city is the Royal Palace, home to the Norwegian Royal family since work began in 1814.

Oslo - Myrdal - Flåm

After breakfast, make your own way to Oslo Central Railway Station to commence your ‘Norway in a Nutshell’ adventure by boarding the train to Myrdal. Enjoy one of the world's most scenic rail journeys as you travel from Oslo through farmland, past snow-covered forests and glacial peaks.

At Myrdal join the famous Flåm Railway - a marvel of railway engineering, descending more than 900 metres to the town of Flåm. Take time to explore at your the town and even a visit to the local brewery or the Flåm railway museum.

Flåm - Gudvangen - Voss

After breakfast, board the ferry from Flåm to Gudvangen, enjoying the spectacular views as you pass through the narrow Nærøyfjord. Known for its snow-capped mountain peaks, deep valleys, fast-flowing rivers and thunderous waterfalls, the journey along the valley from Gudvangen to Voss is as beautiful as it sounds. 

For those wanting a view to remember, take the Voss Gondola to the summit of Mount Hanguren (820 metres above sea level). The panoramic views of the snow covered valley and surrounding areas are more than worth the journey.

Voss - Bergen

Spend the morning exploring Voss, before taking the train for the last bit of your journey to Bergen.  Once you arrive in Bergen, take the afternoon to explore this colourful gateway to the fjords. Bergen was founded in 1070 AD, and retains a great deal of its character, charm and history. Visit the UNESCO-listed Bryggen  district with colourful wharfs dating back to the 14th century.

You may enjoy a stroll in the cobblestone alleyways, a bite at an outdoor café or restaurant, a trip on the  Fløibanen funicular  or a visit to the  famous fish market .

Gateway to the Fjords

Following breakfast and another chance to explore this picturesque city, join the ship at the port to begin your voyage towards the Arctic circle and the Northern Lights.

After we depart, enjoy a tasty dinner buffet made from fresh coastal produce. We sail north from Bergen along the Viking route of Hjeltefjord. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing as you admire the spectacular landscapes from the deck or in our panorama lounge. 

Seven of our ships along the Norwegian Coast have  Hurtigruten Guides . You are welcome to join them on hikes during many of our port stays or enjoy onboard lectures and activities. 

Time in port:

Bergen: 14.30 - 21.30 all year

Want to know when the different ships are in port? See the  complete sailing plan here

Architectural and Natural Masterpieces

Enjoy the early morning in the breathtaking Nordfjord, followed by a delicious breakfast. We then sail past West Cape for our approach to Ålesund.

Art Nouveau city

Ålesund  is renowned for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture and famed Atlanterhavsparken aquarium. Our tour to the aquarium includes a visit to see resident penguins before we continue to nearby Mount Aksla for an amazing view. 

Mountains and roses

Molde  is known as the ‘City of Roses’ because of its lovely municipal gardens. This attractive coastal town has an amazing view of 222 mountain peaks across the fjord, called ‘the Molde Panorama’.

Florø : 03.30 – 03.40

Måløy : 05.40 – 05.50

Torvik : 08.30 – 08.40

Ålesund : 18.30 – 19.30/17.50 – 19.30*

Molde : 22.15 – 22.45** 

*Ålesund winter and spring: 09.45 – 13.30

**Molde winter and Spring: 16.15 – 19.00

History and Charm

Charming Trondheim is home to great history and a rich cultural life.

Magical, medieval and modern

Founded by Viking king Olav Tryggvason in 997, Trondheim today is a unique mix of the ancient and modern. Join our optional excursion to the soaring  Nidaros Cathedral, Norway’s only gothic cathedral and the burial place of St. Olav (Tryggvason). Marvel at the cathedral’s exquisite works of art, architectural details and medieval statues.

Excursions for every taste

From September to May, experience Trondheim with a unique carriage tour on the world’s northernmost tram line . You can also explore Trondheim by kayak on the River Nid or experience the city by bicycle. You can also join the Hurtigruten Guides for a hike to discover more of the area.

Back on board

In the afternoon, the ship sails northwest, passing the Kjeungskjær lighthouse, islets and rocky reefs. After sailing through the narrow channel of Stokksund, we head towards charming  Rørvik .

Kristiansund : 02.15 – 02.30 (winter & spring 22.30 – 01.30)

Trondheim : 10.00 – 13.15

Rørvik : 22.15 – 22.30

Welcome to the Arctic!

Today we cross the Arctic Circle , marking your best chance to see the Northern Lights. We mark the occasion with a fun Arctic Circle ceremony on deck. 

Forces of nature

Ørnes is the site of Norway’s second-largest glacier, Svartisen . 

We then sail along the beautiful coast of Helgeland to Bodø , where you can experience Saltstraumen , the world’s most powerful maelstrom, by small boat. 

Majestic Lofoten

That afternoon, the 1,000 metre-high Lofoten Wall looms on the horizon, ushering us towards majestic granite cliffs and white sandy beaches.

Meet the Vikings

At  Stamsund , visit the Lofotr Viking Museum , where you are welcomed into the chieftain’s house for a real Viking feast. 

Going organic

Between Stamsund and  Svolvær , you can experience life on an organic herb and cheese farm, or visit the Lofoten’s only craft brewery, in Svolvær.

As we sail through the narrow Raftsund, we stop at the entrance to Trollfjord, a dramatic natural wonder that should not be missed.

Brønnøysund : 01.45 – 01.55 

Sandnessjøen : 04.35 – 04.45

Nesna : 05.55 – 06.05

Ørnes : 09.45 – 09.55

Bodø : 12.40 – 15.00

Stamsund : 19.00 – 19.30

Svolvær : 21.00 – 22.00

In the Footsteps of Polar Heroes

We briefly dock at Risøyhamn , Harstad and Finnsnes in the morning.

Polar history and beer

We then sail to the Arctic exploration capital of  Tromsø for a prolonged stay. Join our `Polar History Walk´ in winter to learn more about explorers and Arctic hunters, and taste beer from the world’s northernmost brewery. 

Beyond your imagination

Throughout the winter, complete your stay in Tromsø with a thrilling dog-sledding ride , as huskies pull you over the frozen landscape past stunning views of the snowy plateaus. The only light during the polar night comes from headlamps, the starry sky, and, if we’re lucky, the magical Northern Lights.

Why not have some winter fun by joining a cross-country skiing or snowshoeing adventure , or go deep-sea fishing on an Arctic fjord? All year, you can join the Hurtigruten Guides for hikes and discover more of the Tromsø area. 

Sailing from Tromsø, we continue to search for the  Northern Lights.

Stokmarknes : 01.00 – 01.15

Sortland : 02.45 – 03.00

Risøyhamn : 04.15 – 04.30

Harstad : 06.45 – 07.45

Finnsnes : 11.00 – 11.30

Tromsø : 14.15 – 18.30

Skjervøy : 22.30 – 22.45

Top of the World - North Cape

Experience the North Cape

After a brief stop in Hammerfest , we arrive in Havøysund the world’s northernmost fishing village. One of the most popular excursions is a visit to the North Cape, one of the northernmost points on the European continent marked by the photogenic globe monument.

Sailing north and Northern Lights

The ship continues north into the heartland of the Sámi people. Visit  Kjøllefjord , where you can learn about the Sámi way of life and hear traditional joiking (song).

In winter, you can join an unforgettable snowmobile trip across snowy plains and perhaps spot the Northern Lights in the starry sky.

Øksfjord : 02.00 – 02.15

Hammerfest : 05.15 – 06.00

Havøysund : 08.45 – 09.15

Honningsvåg : 11.15 – 14.45

Kjøllefjord : 17.00 – 17.15

Mehamn : 19.15 – 19.30

Berlevåg : 22.00 – 22.15

Russian Border and Turning Point

We arrive early into Vadsø before docking in Kirkenes - the ship’s turning point for the return journey.

Streets with Russian names

The Russian border is a just few kilometres from Kirkenes and you’ll notice local road signs in both Norwegian and Russian. There are many ways to visit the Russian frontier: canoeing, hiking or bus. 

Winter wonder

Kirkenes offers a wide range of classic winter activities, like dog-sledging, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and visiting an Arctic Ice Dome.

Southbound and down

As the ship starts its voyage south, remember that you’ve seen only half of what Norway’s coastline offers. The ports we visited by night going north are now seen by day.

Ice dipping

Docking again at Vardø , we may invite you to swim in the icy Arctic Ocean in winter. We then cruise along Varanger peninsula to Båtsfjord and Berlevåg , home to a famous male choir of local fishermen.

Båtsfjord : 24.00 – 00.15

Vardø : 03.15 – 03.30

Vadsø : 06.45 – 07.15

Kirkenes : 09.00 – 12.30

Vardø : 15.45 – 16.45

Båtsfjord : 19.45 – 20.15

Berlevåg : 21.45 – 22.00

Unmatched Arctic Scenery

Around midnight we dock at  Mehamn with the option to join in winter a snowmobile trip to hunt the aurora.

Meridian Column

Following a stop at Honningsvåg , the ship continues then to Hammerfest , where you can see the UNESCO-listed Meridian Column . You can also join a mini-mountain expedition and learn about local polar hero Adolf Lindstrøm.

Old Skjervøy

With a brief stop at the old trading post of Skjervøy , we return to Tromsø , just in time to enjoy a midnight concert at the Arctic Cathedral . You may want to drop by Ølhallen, a classic pub for a friendly beer.

Mehamn : 00.45 – 01.00

Kjøllefjord : 02.45 – 03.00

Honningsvåg : 05.30 – 05.45

Havøysund : 07.45 – 08.00

Hammerfest : 10.45 – 12.45

Øksfjord : 15.30 – 15.45

Skjervøy : 19.15 – 19.45

Tromsø : 23.45 – 01.30

Lofoten, Where Nature Amazes

We arrive in  Harstad , where you can join the excursion A Taste of Vesterålen .

Amazing scenery

The island groups of Lofoten and Vesterålen offer some of the most stunning natural scenery of the entire voyage. Lofoten is renowned for its steep mountains, sandy beaches, wild nature and picturesque fishing villages.

Hurtigruten’s birthplace

We make a short stop at Risøyhamn , to deliver passengers, groceries and mail, and then continue to Stokmarknes , where Hurtigruten was founded in 1893.

Go ashore and visit the Hurtigruten Museum . Continuing south, we slip through a passage into the narrow Raftsund, past peaks rising 1,000 metres from the sea.

Spectacular Trollfjord

We now reach spectacular Trollfjord, only 2 km long, 100 m wide and surrounded by majestic mountains. If possible, we sail inside, where the dramatic landscape inspires images of fairy tales and trolls. Just north, you can opt to see sea eagles up close by boat.

Heart of Lofoten

At  Svolvær , you can select several excursion options. We then proceed to Stamsund along the massive Lofoten wall.

Finnsnes : 04.15 – 04.45

Harstad : 07.45 – 08.30

Risøyhamn : 10.45 – 11.00

Sortland : 12.30 – 13.00

Stokmarknes : 14.15 – 15.15

Svolvær : 18.30 – 20.30

Stamsund : 22.00 – 22.30

Across the Arctic Circle

Celebrate crossing the Arctic Circle with a 'taste' of Arctic tradition – a fun ceremony highlighted by a spoonful of cod liver oil.

Mountain with a hole

As we sail along the Helgeland coast, you’ll see the strange mountain Torghatten, famous for its distinctive hole in the centre. The opening is 160 m long, 35 m high and 20 m wide, and was created during the ice age. If the weather allows, join a hike with your guides up the mountain.

Myths and legends

We also sail past the Seven Sisters mountain range – with peaks up to 1,100 m high. The story goes that seven beautiful troll sisters got caught out at sunrise and turned to stone, thus the seven beautiful peaks.

UNESCO heritage

We next make a short stop at Nesna , before moving on to  Sandnessjøen . 

Charming coastal town

Brønnøysund  is a pretty little town that offers a charming high street and marina. You can join an excursion to the Norwegian Aquaculture Centre for an interesting tour and taste of fresh salmon.

TIME IN PORT:

Bodø : 02.30 – 03.45

Ørnes : 06.40 – 06.50

Nesna : 10.25 – 10.35

Sandnessjøen : 11.45 – 12.15

Brønnøysund : 15.00 – 17.30

Rørvik : 21.00 – 21.30

Rich History and Living Culture

We revisit Trondheim to further explore it´s colourful history! Be sure to join our excursion Trondheim with Nidaros Cathedral to learn more about one of the most sacred buildings in all of Norway.

Fishing, scenery and excursions

From there we call at Kristiansund , a city spread across four islands with an excellent harbour that has been active since the Stone Age. Today, it is Norway’s ‘cured cod capital’ because of its centuries-old export of dried fish. Be sure to join an excursion to Bergtatt marble mine, which includes going inside a mountain and sailing across an illuminated subterranean lake, before enjoying a meal in the mine´s ‘Grand Hall’. 

Norwegian Alps

Those choosing to stay on board at Kristiansund will cross the open sea to  Molde , known as Norway's ‘City of Roses’. Along the way, you will take in the steep peaks of the Romsdal Alps on the horizon.

Trondheim : 06.30 – 09.45

Kristiansund : 16.30 – 17.00

Molde : 21.00 – 21.30

Ålesund : 00.30 – 01.00

A Fjord Farewell

During the night, the ship calls at Ålesund, Torvik and Måløy, but before we dock in Bergen, there is some fascinating scenery ahead of us.

Glaciers and lush farmland

We sail through picturesque Nordfjord beneath Jostedal Glacier . This rugged coastal region features farms with fruit orchards and glacial fingers that stretch towards glistening lakes. In the morning, we call at  Florø .

Back to Bergen

We navigate the mouth of the mighty Sognefjord and enjoy superb views of the island-studded coastline before you disembark in Bergen.

We hope you will take home memories of stunning nature, wildlife and fascinating culture, and we hope to see you onboard again in the near future!

Enjoy even more of Norway

To see more of Norway, we highly recommend our excursion Bergen City Sightseeing (only sold on board) or join one of our Post-programmes to experience more Norwegian cuisine, culture and scenery. 

Torvik : 02.15 – 02.30

Måløy : 05.15 – 05.45

Florø : 07.45 – 08.15

Bergen : 14.30

We have several ships in the fleet that we travel with.

MS Kong Harald

Norway’s reigning monarch, a seasoned sailor, lends his name to this remarkable hybrid vessel.

MS Nordkapp

MS Nordkapp is named after the northernmost point on mainland Europe: North Cape (71ºN) - one of the geographical highpoints you can visit on a Hurtigruten voyage.

MS Polarlys

Polarlys is Norwegian for `polar light´, and refers to the natural Arctic phenomenon we pursue in winter.

About your trip

What's included.

4 nights’ accommodation including breakfast in 4 star hotels

Norway in a Nutshell combination ticket including seat reservations if required (train/bus/ferry Bergen-Myrdal-Flam-Gudvangen-Voss-Bergen)

Hurtigruten shuttle from Bergen railway station to hotel

Hurtigruten shuttle from Bergen hotel to ship

Hurtigruten Classic Round Trip voyage in cabin grade of your choice

Everything you need for an adventure (on board the ship only):

12-day voyage in cabin category of your choice

Full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) from  Norway's Coastal Kitchen

English-speaking Tour Leader on board

Engaging onboard activities and lectures:

Onboard lectures and presentations on history, biology, geography, geology and culture that provide context to your voyage and help you understand the destinations you will experience  

Introductory photo presentations, camera adjustment and tips & tricks, photo and film footage from the voyage

Opportunities to casually engage with the guides and other guests, including a welcome event, daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come

Port presentations providing destination insight

Presentation of excursion programmes

Point of interest presentations out on deck

Loan of trekking poles, snow shoes, head lamps, ice-spikes needed for optional hikes depending on season and conditions

Captain’s dinner and a farewell event

What's Not Included

International flights  

Optional excursions

Travel insurance

Luggage handling  

Hikes with Hurtigruten guides

Transfers other than those specified

During the land tour prior to the voyage only breakfast is included, once on board the ship all meals are included

The Oslo to Bergen (Norway in a Nutshell) sector of the trip is self-guided and does not have a tour escort. Once on board the ship you have access to our Tour Leaders.

Prices are in AUD per person based on two people travelling together sharing a twin cabin

Not all cabin categories are available for all departures

Single cabin pricing available on request

Hurtigruten has a flexible pricing system and all prices are capacity controlled and subject to availability.

Know before you go

• The Northern Lights
• Your coastal experience
• FAQ: The Coastal Express
• Meet the team on our Coastal Express ships
• What to pack for a Norwegian cruise

Special Offers

There’s more than one way to sail with us and discover the many wonders of the Norwegian coast.

Scandinavian Touring Packages

Discover our range of exclusive tours featuring handpicked Scandinavian experiences.

Optional Excursions

Explore your destination even further with our wide range of exciting excursions. The excursion programme presented is an indication of some of the excursions that may be available during your voyage.

Kayaking in Ålesund

Starts from

Spring (Apr - May), Winter (Nov - Mar)

2 hours, 15 minutes

Atlanterhavsparken Aquarium and Mount Aksla

Art Nouveau Walk (Spring & Winter)

Art Nouveau Walk (Autumn)

Autumn (Sep - Oct)

1 hour 30 minutes

Trondheim with Nidaros Cathedral

Trondheim – Norway’s capital of technology

Autumn (Sep - Oct), Winter (Nov - Mar)

Trondheim City Walk

Kayaking on the River Nid

2 hours 30 minutes

Arctic Coastal Walk

2 hours 10 minutes

Experience Bodø and Saltstraumen

Meet the Vikings (Winter)

Stamsund – the essence of Lofoten

Winter (Nov - Mar)

Lofotpils Brewery

Svolvær – at the heart of Lofoten

The Arctic Capital: Tromsø

Tromsø – gateway to the Arctic

3 hours 30 minutes

Dog Sledding (Tromsø)

Polar History Walk

Cross-Country Skiing

Snowshoeing In Tromsø

The North Cape

Honningsvåg – gateway to the North Cape

Fishing Village Visit

Snowmobile Trip In The Arctic

Kjøllefjord – beautiful wilderness where nature rules

The Norwegian Border

Kirkenes – right on the border

Snowmobile Safari

Kirkenes Snow hotel

The Northernmost Town In The World

1 hour 45 minutes

Snowmobile Trip in the Polar Night

2 hours 15 minutes

A Taste of Vesterålen

Harstad – at the heart of Northern Norway

4 hours 15 minutes

Lofoten by Horse

Discover a Fishing Village

Spring (Apr - May), Autumn (Sep - Oct), Winter (Nov - Mar)

Visit the Salmon

Brønnøysund – coastal charm right in the middle of Norway

Trondheim With Nidaros Cathedral

The Hidden Rooms of Nidaros Cathedral

Bergtatt – Magnificent Marble Mine

Kristiansund – home of the Bacalao

4 hours 30 minutes

Pre and post programmes

Island Seafood Dinner & Boat Trip from Bergen

Bergen – gateway to the fjords

Spring (Apr - May), Summer (Jun - Aug), Autumn (Sep - Oct)

Sognefjord in a Nutshell | 1 day

Summer (Jun - Aug), Autumn (Sep - Oct)

Sognefjord in a Nutshell | 2 days

Spring (Apr - May), Summer (Jun - Aug)

Norway in a Nutshell | Overnight Voss

Norway in a Nutshell | Overnight Flåm

Norway In A Nutshell - three-day self-guided tour

Norway in a Nutshell - one day

Snowhotel – A Unique Winter Experience

Gamme Cabins by Kirkenes Snowhotel

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• Norway in a Nutshell® & Northern Lights Express

Fjords & Tromsø

(7 days / 6 nights).

• Travel Style
• Independent Train

Fantastic fjords & northern lights

Your next winter adventure awaits with this week-long tour around Norway. Discover the cities of the south, travelling between Oslo and Bergen on the iconic Norway in a Nutshell® train journey. Then you’ll pair this fjord exploration with a trip into the Arctic. In Northern Norway, you’ll see what city life is up here, experience the polar night and go hunting for the majestic northern lights.

7 days / 6 nights

Price p.p. from

The amount will be charged in EUR

Approx 2660 EUR

— why book with nordic visitor.

• Seamless travel experience
• Handpicked hotels and routes designed by local experts
• Trusted Norway tour operators and tour guides
• Comprehensive itinerary & travel guide
• 24/7 helpline during your tour
• Service from local travel experts in Scandinavia
• Great customer reviews
• Carbon offsetting included

— Cancellation Protection

• Rebook your tour on one occasion, or
• Cancel for any reason and receive a partial refund and travel credit

Terms and conditions apply

Tour Highlights

• Immerse yourself in history as you explore the southern cities, Oslo and Bergen
• Admire the deep fjords and steep mountains on a Norway in a Nutshell adventure
• Cross into the Arctic Circle to experience the true north
• Take in the beauty of the “northern lights capital of Norway”, Tromsø
• Enjoy the tranquility of the winter season in Norway
• Hunt for the northern lights on guided excursions
• Relax and dine on an evening cruise in the Arctic
• Experience the legendary Flåm railway , one of the world’s steepest train rides
• Choose to add more activities to your itinerary depending on your interests

Travel style

Independent train i, active i , best seller i , fjords i , honeymoon & romance i , northern lights i , snowmobiling i, attractions.

Just a few of the majestic sights you’ll take in during your trip.

Northern lights

Norway in a nutshell®, flåm railway (flåmsbana), aurlandsfjord, fjords in norway.

A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.

Day 1: WELCOME TO OSLO

When you arrive at Oslo’s Gardermoen Airport, make your way into the city centre. You could take the express train to Oslo Central Station, or we can arrange a private transfer just for you (at an additional cost).

If you’re arriving early in the day, you can explore Oslo on foot. Spend the rest of your day taking in the sights such as the Royal Palace, Akershus Fortress, Oslo City Hall, Oslo Opera House and the Aker Brygge area. You could also take a stroll along Karl Johans Street or at the beautiful Vigeland Sculpture Park.

Spend the night in Oslo.

Day 2: NORWAY IN A NUTSHELL TO FLÅM

Get an early start and head to Oslo Central Station, where you’ll begin the Norway in a Nutshell® railway journey to Bergen, with an overnight stop in Flåm. For this, we recommend booking the luggage transfer between Oslo and Bergen so you can travel freely.

Then you’re off on a scenic train ride that will take you over Norway’s “mountainous rooftops”, through charming villages like Gol and Geilo. In Myrdal, you’ll switch trains to hop on the famous Flåm Railway (“Flåmsbana”) for an incredible ride to the beautiful village of Flåm. Enjoy the rest of the day in Flåm.

Spend the night in Flåm.

Day 3: JOURNEY TO BERGEN

Today you finish the Norway in a Nutshell® journey by travelling from Flåm to Bergen. First, you’ll sail through Aurlandsfjord into the World Heritage-listed Nærøyfjord, the narrowest fjord in all of Europe. This is perhaps the most beautiful arm of Sognefjord, with its mighty waterfalls and small farms clinging to the steep mountainsides. This is especially charming in the winter months.

Then, your boat will dock in Gudvangen, from where the journey continues by bus through Nærøydalen, with its quaint villages and scenic winter landscape. The bus will arrive in Voss, where you’ll embark on the final stretch of your journey on the Bergen Railway.

Spend the night in Bergen.

Day 4: THE CAPITAL OF THE FJORDS

Bergen, “The Capital of the Fjords”, is an international city with all the charms of a small town. That makes it ideal to explore in a day. You could first head to the historic harbour of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or spend time in a museum of your choosing.

For some outdoor adventures and great views over the city and surrounding snowy hills, take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen or the cable car up Mount Ulriken.

Spend another night in Bergen.

Day 5: FLY TO TROMSØ & NORTHERN LIGHTS HUNT

Today you’re leaving the south of Norway behind to fly into the Arctic Circle. When your flight lands at Tromsø Airport, collect your luggage and make your way to the city centre. We recommend taking the airport bus (“Flybussen”) or a taxi directly to your accommodation. After settling in, you can spend the rest of the day exploring the charming city of Tromsø, also known as the "Capital of Northern Norway". There are many restaurants in the city centre to start your trip with a taste of the Arctic.

In the evening, you’ll leave the city lights behind to join a northern lights* tour. Heading out of town will give you the best chances to spot the magical aurora borealis in the winter sky.

Spend the night in Tromsø.

* Please note that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Day 6: VISIT TROMSO & SEE AURORA BOREALIS

Take the full day to enjoy the best of Tromsø. After exploring its countryside, you can dive into the cultural highlights of this Norwegian city. We recommend a stroll along Storgata, the main shopping street of the city. Then stop to visit the Polar Museum nearby. Or travel across the water to take in the striking Arctic Cathedral. For views of the city and some more outdoor adventures, take the cable car Fjellheisen up Storsteinen mountain.

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a northern lights cruise. You’ll sail away from the bright lights of Tromsø to hunt for the northern lights at sea. Meanwhile, you’ll be served dinner on board. After the tour you will be transferred back to your accommodation.

Spend another night in Tromsø.

Day 7: DEPARTURE FROM THE NORTH

After an incredible adventure, it's time to bid farewell to Norway and head home. We recommend taking the Flybussen, an express coach to the airport.

Note: If you need assistance with flights from Tromsø,   or would like to book additional nights in Oslo before and after your holiday, please contact us for details.

Optional extras

Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Private Airport Transfer - Oslo Arrivals

Luggage transfer between oslo and bergen, fjord sightseeing cruise, fjellheisen cable car ride, dogsledding in breivikeidet, whale watching in tromsø.

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

What's included

Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.

• Accommodation (Comfort Plus/Superior) for 6 nights
• Daily Breakfast
• Norway in a Nutshell® Winter Tour Oslo-Bergen
• Domestic Flight (Bergen to Tromsø)
• Northern lights cruise and dinner
• Northern lights small guided group tour
• Carbon offsetting the package
• Nordic Visitor's Norway Travel Guide
• Detailed personal itinerary
• 24/7 helpline
• Taxes & service fees

Not included

• Flights to/from Norway
• Return flight from Tromsø
• Transfers to/from all airports
• Transfers to/from train stations, cruise terminals & hotels
• Meals, drinks & entrance fees, unless otherwise stated
• Personal travel insurance

Optional Extras

• Cancellation Protection

Essential information

We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this train and cruise tour in Norway. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here so you know what to expect. You’ll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online Norway Travel Guide .

The minimum age for this tour is 7 years old.

On this tour, you’ll get to experience both independent travel and exciting excursions led by local guides to see the best of the Norwegian Arctic. All with the support and 24/7 helpline of Nordic Visitor.

You’ll be able to explore the vibrant “capital of Northern Norway”, Tromsø, at your leisure.

In between your own exploration, you’ll join some thrilling guided excursions to experience the variety of Arctic life. You’ll always be led by a local, knowledgeable guide, and all the details of your adventures will be included in your itinerary.

Due to the nature of this tour and the activities included, it’s not recommended for families with young children. That said, it is suitable for active children of 7 years or older. If in doubt, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

The transfers between your hotel and train stations or cruise ports are not included with this package. Usually your accommodation will be within short walking distance. You could also get a taxi from your hotel if you prefer.

Please wait to book flights to Scandinavia until we can confirm your desired travel dates for this tour. This is due to varying availabilities on services included in this package. 

After making a booking with Nordic Visitor, it might take a few weeks to confirm your travel arrangements. We recommend booking your flights once your personal travel consultant gets in touch to confirm your itinerary.

If you have any questions about your flights and itinerary, please contact us for more details.

Yes, you should have moderate to good physical fitness to take part comfortably in this tour. This is because packages set in the Arctic are considered adventure travel due to the specific conditions you’ll experience. Arctic travel can sometimes involve extreme weather conditions as well as vigorous activity and animals (like huskies and reindeer) on many excursions.

This tour includes the famous Norway in a Nutshell® tour from Oslo to Bergen. This is one of Norway’s most iconic journeys. You’ll travel by train, bus and ferry, seeing beautiful landscapes of steep mountains, cascading waterfalls, shimmering fjords, charming villages and scenic coastline.

The first leg of the journey is from Oslo to Flåm. Then you'll be travelling from Flåm to Bergen. The duration of both days will be around 6 hours. 

The connections will be announced and clearly explained in your travel documents. You will receive a ticket with all the information about transfer points and timings with your final travel documents.

You can book an optional luggage transfer for the journey. If you do this, you’ll want a backpack for your daily essentials and one-night stay. Your luggage will be waiting for you at your destination.

If you do not book a luggage transfer, you will have to carry your bags between the train, boat and bus. All connections will be within easy reach and there will be storage available for your luggage during each leg of the journey.

This package includes a domestic flight in Norway between Bergen and Tromsø. Usually, there are direct flights several times a day but, in some cases, flights might connect via Oslo.

Flights departing from Bergen are often in the early morning. This means that you might need to check in at the airport from 7 AM.

Your travel consultant will book the best option for your travel dates, dependent on availability. Flight times will be confirmed when we book your travel arrangements.

Tromsø is ideally located within the “Northern Lights Belt” and this excursion is a great opportunity to witness a spectacular phenomenon.

This small northern lights bus tour is likely to last approximately 5 hours. You’ll be picked up from Tromsø around 7:30 PM heading out of the city to an ideal spot for hunting the lights. This location will depend on the night’s weather and aurora forecast.

Your professional guide will provide hot drinks and snacks and help you set up your own camera to capture the moment. They will also take high-resolution photos during your excursion, which will be shared after the tour.

Make sure to wear appropriate warm layers for this excursion. Read more about the northern lights in Norway in our helpful guide.

Yes, you can customise this tour online. During the booking process, you can add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades. 

If you have something specific in mind, get in touch with your travel consultant and they’ll create your dream trip.

On your Norway tour, you’ll stay in accommodation that’s been hand-picked by our travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience. 

During the booking process, you can select whether you want Comfort Plus or Superior accommodation. Comfort Plus usually consists of standard rooms in good quality and comfortable 3-star hotels. Superior is standard rooms in 4-star hotels combined with Superior rooms in premium 3-star hotels.

You will also be able to choose between single, double or triple rooms. Please note that in Norway room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America. 

For example, a double bed often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. Twin rooms are 2 separate single beds. Triple rooms include a double bed along with an extra single bed, rollaway or sofa bed. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.

If you have anything specific in mind, please contact us to discuss customising your accommodation options.

By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.

For support and advice during the day, you can call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline. 

During your tour, there will always be a travel expert on call to handle any unforeseen situations, such as unusual weather or events.

If you have a passport from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, you won’t need a visa to visit Norway. This visa-free entry is valid for up to 90 days.

Visiting from another country? You can find out whether you require a visa to enter Norway on the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Select your home country to view details. If you do require a visa, you will be directed to your local embassy website to learn about the visa requirements.

Your passport must also be valid for at least 3 months from your departure from Norway. It’s good to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it.

Because of its northerly location close to and inside the Arctic Circle, Norway has limited daylight in winter. 

In the south, you can expect more daylight than in the north. For example, in Tromsø, you’ll have less than 7 hours of daylight from late October. Then from late November to mid-January, the sun never rises. This is called the “polar night”.

In Oslo and Bergen, you’ll get 5–10 hours of daylight across the winter. 

The beauty of these extended hours of darkness in Norway is that you’ll have a better chance of seeing the northern lights.

Find out what the daylight hours will be during the month of your visit in this guide to time and daylight in Norway .

Yes! Wintertime is the right season to visit Norway if you want to see the northern lights (or aurora borealis). You can experience the northern lights in the north of Norway between October and March, with peak visibility from December through February. 

For the best chances of seeing them, head into the Arctic Circle, to locations such as Tromsø, Kirkenes and the Lofoten islands. With Nordic Visitor, you can also pick from a selection of Norway northern lights tours .

Please note that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. Even if you go out on a specific northern lights excursion, you might not see them, depending on the conditions or cloud cover. 

Read our Norway northern lights guide to learn more.

Visiting Northern Norway in the winter season will reward you with snow-blanketed landscapes and a festive, cosy atmosphere. There’s not much sunlight at this time of year, so the places you’ll visit will have the enchanting atmosphere of deep winter.

You’ll probably experience temperatures below freezing, around 0 to -7°C (31 to 19°F). This means you’ll want to come prepared with warm, insulated clothes and outer layers. You can read more about the weather conditions and what to pack on our Norway travel guide.

Please note that sightseeing and excursions depend on weather and road conditions. Your itinerary might need to be altered if these conditions are not favourable during your visit.

During Norway’s winter season, you can expect temperatures below freezing. For that reason, you’ll want to pack and dress with plenty of layers to keep yourself warm and dry.

Here is an essential winter packing list for your trip to Norway:

• Insulated and waterproof jacket
• Cosy wool or fleece jumpers
• Snow or waterproof trousers depending on your destination
• Warm gloves, hat and scarf
• Insulated boots
• A few pairs of thermal socks
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Electronic gear such as smartphone, external powerpack, and travel adapters
• and don’t forget your camera!  

If you’re heading north and plan on taking part in winter excursions, you could also bring glove liners and heat packs for extra warmth.

Some day tour operators will provide you with thermal suits for your comfort. To find out if equipment is provided check the details of each activity before you leave for Norway, or get in touch with your personal travel consultant.

For more information, check out this Norway packing list .

When you travel with Nordic Visitor, breakfast at your Norway accommodation is always included.  For the rest of your meals, the amount of spending money you need will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to. 

That said, we recommend budgeting between 100–400 NOK for lunch per person, each day. Dinners at casual restaurants might cost between 500–1,000 NOK. Meanwhile, at upscale restaurants, you can expect to pay 1,500 NOK or more. This does not include the cost of alcoholic beverages. 

It’s best to book as soon as you can to secure your preferred travel dates. Once you have picked your tour, check the availability calendar to see which months are open for booking. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking. 

We recommend waiting for a confirmation from your travel consultant to ensure your travel dates are available. You’ll then be able to purchase your flights with confidence.

If you like to plan well ahead, you’ll find that it’s possible to book many tours for the following year. And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us . 

After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip. 

We aim to complete bookings within a few weeks. During this time we take care of booking your accommodation, activities, and transport, confirming all parts of your journey. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip. 

When we get back to you might depend slightly on how far ahead you’ve booked your travels and other tours running at the time. 

No need! Nordic Visitor is already working on offsetting the estimated carbon footprint of your package. We’ve partnered with an environmental fund in Iceland to carbon offset all our tours.

Carbon offsetting your international flights is not included, but we highly recommend you look into possibilities with your airline or directly through a local environment fund. 

If you have any questions before your trip, you can get in touch with our Norway travel experts. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office opening hours.

Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide you with a travel guide packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. You can also check out our online Norway Travel Guide where we’ve compiled useful information about topics, including:

• Which currency is used in Norway and which credit cards are widely accepted
• What kind of electric adapters or converters you’ll need
• Which languages do Norwegian speak (yes, English is one of them!)
• How to get a refund on tax-free shopping
• As well as tipping, buying snacks, and other useful information

After you have booked your tour, it will only take a few days to confirm its availability. But it may take a few weeks to create your itinerary and book everything. 

Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll send you e-copies of your travel documents. This will include your personalised itinerary, our Norway Travel Guide and your service vouchers. We recommend printing your tickets and vouchers to bring with you to Norway.

When you depart may depend on the time of your return flight. Check out early if you’re heading to the airport for a morning flight. On the other hand, if you’re flying home later in the day, you might like to enjoy a leisurely day or visit one more attraction.

You will usually need to check out from your room around 10–11 AM. If you’re staying in town longer, you will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. Simply return later to collect your bags before making your way to the airport.

All bookings are billed in Euro (EUR). Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate. This means conversions from EUR to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

These pictures may be small, but Norway’s mountains & fjords are massive.

Northern lights in Tromsø ©visitnorway

Sognefjord in Norway

Flåm village in Aurlandsfjord during wintertime

Northern Lights - Norway

Arctic Cathedral in Tromsø

Winter in Bergen

+6 more from this tour

Flåm railway in winter

Bergen During Winter

Flåm, Aurlandsfjord in wintertime

Oslo Opera House

Dog sledding tour ©lyngsfjord

Northern Lights over Tromsø

We don’t like to brag, so we’ll let our happy customers do it for us.

Amazing experience

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

Kim, Singapore

Norway in a nutshell® & northern lights express, december 2023, fabulous service.

Sindre was our original travel consultant and he was so communicative and helpful. He made sure we got every booking we wanted. Juliana helped us so much while on our trip - there was a mishap with our bus and she was so kind and kept checking in on us to ensure we got to Bergen and were safe! Fabulous service.

Jill, United States

Norway in a nutshell® & northern lights express, march 2023, 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.

LynnAnn, Guatemala

Norway in a nutshell® & northern lights express, november 2023, our travel consultant was amazing.

Juliana was amazing. She answered all of my pretrip questions (there were many). At one point during our trip, the fjord cruise was cancelled due to ice. She notified me via email along with the solution to stay with the Norway in a Nutshell tour. While we didn't have any emergencies on our trip, I was confident she was a phone call away to help us.

Nancy, United States

A dream come true.

I first booked this tour in 2019 for a March 2020 departure. Nordic Visitor worked with me through the Covid pandemic and cancellation process. It was this positive experience that really made me excited to rebook the trip for March 2023. The trip overall was a dream come true! All of the documents and information provided made the transfers and meeting locations a breeze. I will definitely recommend Nordic Visitor to my friends and family, and I look forward to booking another tour in the future!

Christopher, United States

I am already looking to use nordic visitor again.

This is the second time I have used Nordic Visitor. I am already looking to use them again for our upcoming Scotland/Ireland trip. I have been recommending them to friends interested in visiting Iceland.

Barbara, United States

Norway in a nutshell® & northern lights express, january 2023, accommodation.

Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.

Comfort Plus

Standard rooms in good quality and comfortable three-star hotels in combination with charming country hotels.

Standard rooms in four-star hotels in combination with Superior rooms in premium three-star hotels.

Price per person from

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Norway in a Nutshell® & Northern Lights Express / Included

Norway in a nutshell® & northern lights express / guided small groups, send request, send to inbox.

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Norway Tours & Trips from Bergen

Find your perfect adventure! We have 13 tours of Norway that start in Bergen, Norway. The most popular month is August, and tour lengths range between 5 and 16 days.

13 Norway tour packages from Bergen with 44 reviews

• Ocean Cruise

Norwegian Fjords & Crossing the Arctic Circle (Start Bergen, End Oslo)

• Hiking & Trekking
• Sightseeing

Norway Fjord Trekking

Everything was organized and the views from this trip was amazing!

Magic of the Fjords

The experience in Norway was fantastic - from the wonderful landscapes to the activities to the food and accommodations. The tour guide (Marina) was knowledgeable, engaging, and extremely helpful to ensure the trip was as smooth and fun as possible. The itinerary was engaging and there was so much beauty to see in Norway.

Highlights Norway Hurtigruten Cruise Norwegian Fjords and Expert Tour Guide

• Mountain Hikes

Walking the Fjords

A great experience with a variety of beautiful and breathtaking hiking and touring environments, including the classic waterway fjords, river valleys, raging waterfalls, stark tundra and glacial environments, as well as stops at hiking huts and local landmarks.. The tour had two guides, the veteran Asbjorn and young Lucas, to whom Asbjorn is turning over the guide responsibilities. Both are proud of their region of Norway, knowledgeable tour guides, and enthusiastic hikers in the area. The guides rearranged the schedule of hiking events to take advantage of the changing weather day by day. During the entire week, the guides unobtrusively evaluated the capabilities of the tour participants, and ensured that each hiker had a safe experience. They thoughtfully provided welcome coffee and tea for lunches on the trail. The hiking is moderately strenuous if you're fit, some parts more rigorous if you're not. Take the advice about waterproof hiking boots seriously - you will be stepping in mud and shallow water repeatedly as the trails frequently cross wet areas and small streams. Clothing for cold/windy/rainy weather is a must, as well. The optional glacier walk run by a commercial operator, involves a rather long and risky hike to the glacier face, and fairly steep paths on the glacier itself; it's not for the faint of heart. Nes Gard is a lovely accommodation, with comfortable rooms, friendly and capable staff, and delicious meals in a dining setting that encourages tour participants to get to know each other. Substantial breakfasts prepared us for a day of physical activity and provided material for a take-along lunch. Dinners were formal three-course affairs with different menu each day, proudly announced at the beginning of each dinner by an efficient staff. The days were fully scheduled with hiking and touring activities, and evenings were filled with dinner and briefings on the next day's activities - there were only a couple of hours per day to relax. Overall, a well-organized, well-planned, tightly-managed experience in a beautiful setting, run by a staff that is dedicated to providing their guests with a great experience.

• Mountain Bike

7-DAY EPIC SINGLETRACK ADVENTURE MOUNTAIN BIKE TOUR IN NORWAY

Magic of the Fjords & Stockholm - 9 days

Magic of the Fjords - 7 days

I had a great tour! Met some fantastic people and Stefano was very knowledgeable.

• Christmas & New Year

Winter Wonders of the Fjords

Norway in a Nutshell (Bergen to Oslo via Flam)

• Ski, Snowboard & Snow

9-DAY POWDER SKIING PARADISE TRIP IN NORWAY

Magic of the Fjords & Stockholm

Good/excellent guide and accommodation

Adventure in the fjords

Tours starting from bergen.

• Bergen to Bergen tours (5)
• Bergen to Oslo tours (5)
• Explorer from Bergen (10)
• Family from Bergen (7)
• Norway Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Norway Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Bookings & Enquiries

Our staff will respond to your query promptly and provide detailed information to your questions.

Experience the Northern Lights

Far Out Focus - Hans Petter Sørensen

Scan here for prices and availabilty

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 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 a visit to the popular Fish Market, the famous Bryggen Harbour with its gabled pack-houses, and 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, self-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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Can you see the Northern Lights in Bergen, Norway?

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Are you visiting Norway and wondering if you can see the northern lights in Bergen ? Then this guide is for you! I have lived in Bergen for years now, and am happy to share that you can see the northern lights here!

However, they are rarely seen this far south, so chances are slim. If you want to be guaranteed to see the northern lights during your trip to Norway, I recommend heading up north and booking a northern lights tour in Tromsø , Lofoten or Alta , for example.

Still, there are a few things that come into play if you hope to see the northern lights in western Norway and Bergen, especially. Keep reading to learn my best tips!

Table of Contents

Quick Bergen Travel Guide

Where to stay : Hotel Norge is a centrally located, higher-end hotel that is perfect for any traveler – and my favorite (their scrambled eggs at breakfast are the best in Norway). If you are looking for something in the historic city center, Clarion Havnekontoret is just a stone’s throw from the UNESCO-listed Bryggen. For something more budget-friendly, CityBox and Moxy are great alternatives!

Where to eat : I have so many favourite restaurants in Bergen, and have covered them all in this guide . Don’t miss Bryggeloftet (traditional, Norwegian), Poca Madre (Mexican), Boccone (Italian) and JAJA (International Street Food).

Top activities and tours in Bergen :

• Mostraumen Fjord Cruise from Bergen (check out the best fjord cruises from Bergen in this guide )
• Seeing the UNESCO listed Bryggen (on your own or on a walking tour )
• Viking ship fjord cruise
• Hiking or taking the funicular up Mount Fløyen
• Going on a day trip to Flåm and the Nærøyfjord

Packing for Bergen : My golden rule when packing and dressing for any destination in Norway is layers. Layers, layers, layers – and Bergen is no different. Additionally, Bergen can be quite a rainy city, so a waterproof jacket such as this one is ideal. Good shoes for walking around the city is a must too (the city is very walkable).

Getting to Bergen : I have covered how to get from the airport to the city center in detail here .

Getting Around : Skyss is the official public transportation system in Bergen. Download the app Skyss Billett (ticket) to have tickets on your phone.

As mentioned, yes, you can. However, it is very rare. This is mainly because Bergen is quite far south, and below the Arctic circle. There are plenty of great things to do in the city year round, but seeing the northern lights is not on the list of why people visit .

Going on a fjord cruise or taking a day trip to the fjords , however, is more likely gonna be why you visit Bergen.

The reason for this is that it is very rare that the northern lights are visible this far south, and when they are, they are not as strong. This makes photographing them harder, especially with just a smartphone , but not impossible (read my best northern lights photography tips here).

The northern lights are an incredible sight to behold. I know this from personal experience as I have been lucky enough to see them several times in my life. From the vast green-blue ribbons of light that streak across the night sky, to the shimmering curtains of movement that follow, no words can truly describe their beauty and grandeur. I want to help visitors to Norway to get the most out of their time there and experience all that nature has to offer. That’s why I always try to fill my blog with guides to an unforgettable adventure in Norway. If you hope to see the northern lights in Norway, and especially Bergen, the tips below should be of help. Seeing them is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime – they’re absolutely spectacular!

Which period of year can you potentially see northern lights in Bergen?

First things first. There are only certain times of year you can spot the northern lights this far south.

The darker months are your best bet for this. It can be as early as September, but chances increase from October onwards. From experience, the times when the northern lights have been visible in the western fjords area has usually been around January-February.

To summarise, you can see the northern lights in Bergen and the surrounding area from October to March, with December-February being your best bet. This is mainly due to how dark it is during those months.

Read next (for a more in depth guide) : The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Norway

Northern Lights Bergen Tips

There are a few more things to keep in mind if you hope to see the Aurora Borealis dancing across the sky in Bergen.

Firstly, the Aurora forecast needs to be strong enough. As a general rule, you can see the northern lights in Bergen when the Aurora forecast is a 5 and above (the higher, the better).

The second one is weather. You need the forecast to be clear, otherwise it doesn’t matter how strong the northern lights are. A clear sky is your friend on nights where you hope to see the lights.

Finally, your location is extremely important. Yes, I am talking about Bergen, but really, you need to get out of the city to see them clearly. City lights are your enemy here.

In order to get away from the lights, I highly recommend heading up on one of the city mountains surrounding Bergen (there are some great hikes in the city). Fløyen is of course the easiest, but I also recommend Løvstakken or Ulriken (my favourite.

Make sure you dress well, as seeing the lights is a game of patience, and the winter nights in Norway are cold. My packing list for Norway in winter should help!

About Norway’s National Animal: The Moose

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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

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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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The Northern Lights Train

Chase the Aurora Borealis while travelling on Norway’s northernmost railway on board the Northern Lights Train.

The Northern Lights Train will take you far up in the mountains, away from the bright city lights where you have a great chance of catching the Green Lady dancing in the sky.

The guides will welcome you on board the Arctic Train and we will start our journey along the Ofoten line. During the trip we will share stories while enjoying a comfortable train ride and passing beautiful fjords and landscapes.

First stop on this journey is Bjørnfjell, which is the border station to Sweden. After a short stay at Bjørnfjell, we travel to Katterat station. Here we will continue our chase 374 metres above sea level while we explore the area and listen to Northern Lights stories.

At Katterat station, we will make a campfire and serve pastries while enjoying some warm beverages and looking at a once in a lifetime view.

Time table Arctic Train and Northern Lights Train.

Location or meeting point

Important information, meeting time and place.

• 18:30 (6:30PM) at Narvik Train Station
• 18:50 (6:50PM) Train Departure

18:30 - 22:00 (3,5 hours)

• Train ticket
• English speaking guide
• Snack & beverages
• Northern Lights photography guidance
• Northern Lights documentary
• Visit the old mountain village of Katterat, located 373 m above sea level
• Visit the old barrack containing the museum at Katterat

What to bring or wear

• Warm clothes
• Camera & Tripod

Good to know

Train Facilities:

• Cold beverages for purchase

More experiences at this destination

The arctic train - ofoten line.

Arctic Train travels through a desolate, wild and beautiful landscape on Norway’s most northerly railway.

Chase the Aurora Boralis while travelling on Norway’s northernmost railway.

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Bergen, Norway

You are here, about bergen, why visit bergen, norway.

Surrounded by the striking seven mountains, the city of Bergen is not only an important cultural center of the region but also a part of many cruising routes along the Norwegian coastline serving the main gateway to dramatic fjords!

But before you start exploring the nearby natural wonders, devote some time to the magical city itself as it packs in some of the best Scandinavian treasures . Start your Bergen sightseeing tour with Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, the oldest part of the town, which is the best place to get acquainted with the history of the area. It’s fairy-tale wooden buildings and cozy cobblestone alleyways will indeed make a great photo stop! While in the city, also check out such remarkable Bergen landmarks as Bergen Art Museum, Fantoft Church, and Bergen Aquarium.

Other things that will definitely add more fun to your Bergen travel is the exploration of the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord village and going on a Hurtigruten cruise to admire the stunning sceneries of the picturesque Norwegian coast. As a highlight of your Bergen vacation, hop on the panoramic Floibanen funicular to enjoy some outstanding views and see the city from another perspective.

During your Bergen tour, make sure to taste the local specialties and learn more about Nordic gastronomy traditions. Due to its favorable location, Bergen restaurants are well-known for their delicious seafood dishes. We especially recommend giving the Rokt Laks and Rokt Orret a try. Yum! In addition to saturated historical heritage and excellent cuisine, Bergen is noted for its impressive bar scene and festive nightlife. Believe us, locals really know how to throw a party and make your Norway vacation unforgettable!

Best Things to Do on Bergen Norway Tours

• Have an unforgettable ride on the Floibanen funicular
• Degust Nordic cuisine specialties in the local restaurant
• Explore the Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

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The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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