Best time to visit Norway to see the Northern Lights
The best time to visit Norway for northern lights is from late September to early April, when the Arctic sky comes alive with a dance of green, pink and purple lights. Known as the Aurora Borealis, this natural phenomenon is one of the most mesmerizing sights on earth – and Norway offers some of the best places to see it.
Such as:
1. Tromso – the Arctic Capital
2. Lofoten Islands
3. Alta
4. Svalbard
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a photography enthusiast, this complete guide covers everything you need to know: the best months, top spots, weather and expert tips to help make your Northern Lights dreams in Norway a reality.
1. Understanding the Northern Lights
Before you plan your trip, it’s important to understand why the Northern Lights are so special. The phenomenon occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a brilliant light display.
Norway’s high latitude and dark winter nights make it one of the best countries in the world to see this magical spectacle.
Key insights:
To see the aurora clearly, you’ll need long nights, clear skies, and minimal light pollution — all of which are in abundance during the best times to visit Norway for Northern Lights.
2. Best Time to Visit Norway for the Northern Lights – Month-by-Month Guide
If your goal is to see the Aurora Borealis, timing is everything. Here’s a breakdown of the best months and what to expect.
- September to October
The start of the aurora season.Mild weather, fewer tourists.Great for combining photography and hiking. - November to January
Peak aurora viewing period.Polar nights bring almost continuous darkness — ideal for Northern Lights chasers. Cold weather (down to -15°C in the Arctic Circle). - February to March
The best balance between daylight and dark skies. Aurora activity remains high. Snow-covered landscape perfect for winter activities.
Overall, November to March is considered the best time to visit Norway for the Northern Lights.
3. Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Norway
Now that you know the best time to visit Norway for northern lights, let’s explore where to go for the best views.
1. Tromso – The Arctic Capital
Tromso, located above the Arctic Circle, is the most popular northern lights destination.
- Easily accessible by flight.
- Aurora-viewing tours available daily.
- Many winter festivals and snow adventures.
2. Lofoten Islands
Known for its dramatic peaks and beaches, Lofoten offers stunning Aurora backdrops.
- Great for photographers.
- Fewer crowds than Tromso.
3. Alta
Nicknamed “The City of Northern Lights,” Alta is scientifically proven to have stable weather and clear skies.
4. Svalbard
For the adventurous traveler, Svalbard offers the chance to see the Aurora even at noon during the polar night season.
Each of these locations shines during the best time to visit Norway for northern lights, offering a different experience for every traveler.
4. Ideal weather for aurora viewing
To maximize your chances, you’ll need the right conditions:
- Clear skies (no clouds).
- Minimal moonlight for a dark backdrop.
- Low light pollution (avoid cities).
- Solar activity alerts from the Aurora Forecast app.
The best time to visit Norway for Northern Lights also depends on avoiding the full moon phase – dark skies make the lights more vivid.
5. Photography tips for capturing the Northern Lights
If you love photography, Norway offers endless opportunities to capture the Aurora Borealis.
Required camera settings:
- Shutter speed: 10-25 seconds.
- ISO: 800-1600.
- Aperture: f/2.8 or lower.
- Use a tripod and remote shutter.
Pro tip:
Always carry extra batteries; the cold drains them quickly. Shooting during the best time to visit Norway for northern lights ensures bright, clear images.
6. Where to stay during Northern Lights season
Accommodation choices can make your experience even more magical.
Top Northern Lights lodges and hotels:
- Tromso Ice Dome – an ice hotel with a glass roof.
- Linzen North – Glass igloos overlooking the fjord.
- Rein Rorbuer (Lofoten) – Cozy fisherman’s cabin with aurora views.
- Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge (Alta) – Luxury lodge in the Arctic wilderness.
Staying in these unique places during the best time to visit Norway for northern lights gives you the chance to watch the sky dance from your bed!
7. How to get around Norway during Northern Lights season
Traveling during the Arctic winter requires some planning.
Transportation tips:
- Air: Domestic flights connect Oslo with Tromso, Alta, and Bodo.
- Train: Norway’s scenic rail routes (such as Oslo-Bodo) are stunning but long.
- Car rental: Best for exploring the Lofoten Islands and remote aurora locations.
- Guided tours: Perfect for first-time travelers.
If you’re traveling between November and March – the best time to visit Norway for Northern Lights – always check the weather and road conditions before you travel.
8. Other activities to enjoy during the aurora season
While the Northern Lights are a highlight, Norway has much more to offer in winter:
- Dog sledding in Tromso.
- Snowmobiling in Alta.
- Reindeer safari with Sami guides.
- Whale watching in Vesterålen.
- Skiing in Lofoten.
Combining these experiences during the best time to travel to Norway for Northern Lights makes your trip truly unforgettable.
9. Common mistakes to avoid chasing the Northern Lights
Even during the best time to visit Norway for northern lights, travelers often make simple mistakes. Avoid these to increase your chances:
- Don’t plan trips that are too short (stay at least 3-5 nights).
- Avoid big cities with light pollution.
- Don’t forget the warm layers (temperatures drop below freezing).
- Don’t rely on just one location – move around if the weather is bad.
10. Essential Packing List for Northern Lights Travelers
To enjoy your Arctic adventure in comfort, pack wisely:
- Thermal clothing and gloves.
- Waterproof boots.
- Headlamp and power bank.
- Camera tripod and extra batteries.
- Aurora forecasting app (such as My Aurora Forecast).
Preparation ensures you get the most out of the best time to travel to Norway to experience the Northern Lights.
11. Expert Tips for Maximizing Your Aurora Experience
- Be flexible — the aurora can appear at any time between 6 p.m. and 2 a.m.
- Check the weather and solar activity daily.
- Join a local aurora tour for better guidance.
- Have your camera ready — it can only last a few minutes!
- Avoid the week of the full moon for dark skies.
These tips will help you make the most of your trip to Norway during the best time to visit for Northern Lights.
Final Thoughts
The best time to visit Norway for Northern Lights is undoubtedly between November and March, when the Arctic night reigns supreme and the sky comes alive with waves of green, purple, and blue. Whether you choose Tromso, Lofoten, or Svalbard, Norway guarantees you a magical aurora experience that is hard to describe in words.
Plan wisely, dress warmly, and keep your eyes on the northern sky — because once you see the aurora borealis dancing over the Norwegian fjords, you’ll never forget it.
