Find the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights

From the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard to the vast wilderness of Alaska, we help you find the best destinations for seeing the aurora borealis. Browse our guides for locations across Norway, Iceland, Finland, Sweden and Canada — with real-time aurora forecasts, cloud-cover predictions and optimal viewing seasons for each.

Canada

Dark skies and breathtaking wilderness, one of the best places to experience the northern lights in all their glory.

Banff •Churchill •Edmonton •Jasper •Whitehorse •Yellowknife

Faroe Islands

Dramatic landscapes with pristine dark skies, an exceptional place to witness the northern lights with a truly unique setting.

Tórshavn

Finland

Enjoy stunning aurora displays from cozy glass igloos or snowy forests in the magical northern wilderness.

Inari •Levi •Luosto •Rovaniemi

Greenland

The remote wilderness and minimal light pollution offer a breathtaking, serene setting to witness the northern lights in their purest form.

Ilulissat •Kangerlussuaq •Nuuk •Qaqortoq

Iceland

Breathtaking landscapes and long winter nights provide a spectacular backdrop for witnessing the aurora in a truly unforgettable setting.

Akureyri •Reykjavík •Vík

Norway

Stunning fjords and snowy peaks provide a breathtaking backdrop to the northern lights in one of the best locations to witness this natural spectacle.

Alta •Bodø •Lofoten •Tromsø

Shetland

A remote location and dark skies offer opportunities to witness the northern lights over rugged coastlines and peaceful seascapes.

Lerwick

Svalbard

Polar nights in the high arctic offer exceptional chances to witness the northern lights dancing across pristine, icy landscapes.

Longyearbyen

Sweden

Clear winter nights and pristine wilderness create an ideal place to experience the aurora in a magical Arctic setting.

Abisko •Björkliden •Kiruna

USA

Alaska’s vast wilderness and clear, dark skies create perfect conditions for experiencing the northern lights in a breathtaking natural setting.

Anchorage •Fairbanks •Healy

Plan your aurora adventure

Check tonight’s forecast, pick the best month to travel, learn what to pack and how to photograph the aurora. We’ve also got guides on chasing the lights from home and spotting them from lower latitudes when conditions are right.

Aurora Forecast

Stay updated with the latest aurora forecast including Kp-index, Bz, solar wind density and speed, plus a 3-day outlook, aurora map and top viewing locations.

Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure

When to go? What to wear? Things to consider when planning a trip to see the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights Photography

A complete guide to photographing the Northern Lights. Learn the best camera settings, equipment and composition tips for capturing stunning aurora photos.

Best Time Of Year To See The Northern Lights

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights? A month-by-month guide covering aurora season, solar cycles, equinox effects and what to expect throughout the year.

See The Aurora Without Leaving Your Home

Can’t travel to see the Northern Lights? Watch aurora live from home using webcams, livestreams, alert apps and space weather dashboards. A complete guide to remote aurora viewing.

Can You See The Northern Lights From Where You Live?

How far south can the Northern Lights be seen? A guide to aurora visibility by latitude, covering the UK, northern Europe, the US and beyond, including what Kp level you need and historic low-latitude sightings.

Discover the science, stories and sounds of the aurora

Learn how the solar wind creates the aurora, read about the myths and folklore behind the lights, browse a glossary of space weather terms, or put on a playlist while you wait for the sky to turn green.

Science Of The Aurora

Understanding the science behind the Northern Lights. Learn about the solar wind, Earth’s magnetic field and how charged particles create the stunning auroral displays.

Northern Lights Playlist

Pop on your headphones and relax. A curated playlist to accompany your Northern Lights experience.

Northern Lights Myths And Legends

Exploring the myths and legends surrounding the Northern Lights, from Norse Valkyries and Inuit spirits to Sámi beliefs, Finnish folklore and beyond.

Aurora Glossary

A comprehensive glossary of aurora and space weather terms. Understand Kp, Bz, solar wind, CME, substorms and more to improve your Northern Lights viewing.

Reykjavík

Home / Iceland / Reykjavík

Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, is a vibrant city known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture and as one of the best places to experience the Northern Lights. With its unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty, Reykjavík offers an unforgettable setting for witnessing this spectacular phenomenon.

Why Reykjavík? Reykjavík is surrounded by incredible natural landscapes, making it easy to escape the city lights for optimal Northern Lights viewing. The city is rich in history and culture, featuring numerous museums, galleries and geothermal spas. Take a day trip to visit the Golden Circle, including Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. The best months for Northern Lights viewing are from September to April, with peak viewing opportunities during the winter months when nights are longer.

Weather conditions can change rapidly, so keep your plans flexible to enhance your chances of witnessing the Aurora.

A trip to Reykjavík for the Northern Lights is a fantastic way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Whether you’re hunting for the Aurora or exploring the city’s rich offerings, Reykjavík provides a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Reykjavík. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

0%

There is a 0% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Reykjavík area (forecast for 27 July 2026 at 12:15pm UTC)

Kp 2.00

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

  • 0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
  • 3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
  • 6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
  • 8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.
HPI 14 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz 2 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced aurora activity.

Bt 4 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Light Levels

Moon

Waxing gibbous 86%

Sunrise 4:18am

Sunset 10:50pm

Weather Forecast for Reykjavík

Clouds

15°C Feels like 14°C

High
15°C
Low
10°C

  • Chance of precipitation 0%

  • Cloud cover 18%

  • North-Easterly winds 5 km/h gusts of 7 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Reykjavík

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Reykjavík.

  • Free cancellation

    Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket Including 7-Step Ritual

    4.7 (2526)

    2 hours 30 minutes From £87.90

    Sky Lagoon, a scenic geothermal lagoon that opened in 2021, is a relaxing passage through Icelandic bathing culture. There you are surrounded by reefs, lava cliffs, and the open ocean and you get a chance to unplug, without having to even leave the capital area. Sky Lagoon is visited equally by locals and travelers and has become their Zen place in the city. The unique architecture invites you to time travel between centuries where the strong natural connection from the early ages and the advanced modern technology of today come together in perfect harmony. Their 7-step Ritual, a therapy of hot and cold. helps you relax and restore which is the core of the experience. At the edge of Sky Lagoon, you’ll find a 75-metre long infinity edge giving you the feeling of sea and sky coming together as one.

  • Free cancellation

    Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

    4.8 (6378)

    10 hours From £100.09

    Visit the natural wonders of Iceland on this 10-hour tour from Reykjavik. Travel in a minibus to the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Sólheimajökul glacier and the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. Enjoy convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.

  • Free cancellation Special offer

    Golden Circle, Volcano Crater and Blue Lagoon Small-Group Tour

    4.8 (2484)

    11 hours From £194.46

    Experience the best of Iceland's natural wonders on this one day mini bus tour. Join us for this magnificent combination of of Iceland, we will take you to the Golden Circle pearls and enoy the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon. Book now to begin your journey!

  • Free cancellation

    Golden Circle Classic Day Tour from Reykjavik

    4.5 (5550)

    6 hours 30 minutes From £62.66

    Discover some of the best sites in Iceland on the the Golden Circle Tour, in the company of a professional guide who will tell you all you need to know about the area's history, culture and nature. Leave the city behind and get into the history of Iceland at Thingvellir National Park, witness the powerful beauty of a multi-tiered waterfall at Gullfoss and walk among bubbling geothermal pools at Geysir Geothermal Area.

  • Free cancellation

    Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland

    5.0 (20314)

    3 hours From £111.51

    Local food, city & history tour of Reykjavik. In the tastiest sight seeing tour in Iceland, we explore down town Reykjavik through delicious local cuisines that you would never come across in your typical “to-do in Iceland” itinerary! You will stroll around the city and visit 5-6 wonderful local restaurants with a fun & knowledgeable guide by your side. In our tours you will have a chance to try the best local cuisines of Iceland in each season, like the delicious Icelandic lamb, home made Icelandic ice cream from a secret family recipe, an authentic catch of the day, a hot dog from the famous Icelandic hot dog stand and much more! If you like to experience Reykjavik, Iceland’s culture, unique cuisine, local restaurants and make new friends, you should definitely join our Reykjavik Food Walk. Just make sure you show up hungry!

  • Free cancellation

    The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik

    4.6 (2845)

    3 hours From £80.20

    Encounter whales, dolphins, porpoises and birds on this cruise from Reykjavik and see the wildlife in their natural habitat off the capital’s coast. Whales and dolphins are seen on more than 90% of tours in both summer and winter! In the unlikely event you do not see a whale or a dolphin you receive a complimentary ticket to join us again another day. Elding is an environmentally friendly company and recognised worldwide for its sustainability efforts. Our aim, mission and goal is to minimise the operational impact on the environment while offering an unforgettable experience at sea. We follow a code of conduct for responsible whale watching, which ensures that our tours respect marine life by minimising disturbance, keeping a safe distance from the animals.

Places to check out around Reykjavík

Explore more nearby Reykjavík

  • Hveragerði, Iceland at dusk

    Credit: aiden patrissi

    Hveragerði

    63°59'54"N, 21°11'18"W

    Aurora probability in Hveragerði: 0%

    Hveragerði, Iceland, is a unique town renowned for its geothermal activity, offering visitors a chance to experience hot springs, greenhouses and a vibrant connection with nature.

  • Eyrarbakki, Iceland

    Credit: Freysteinn G. Jonsson

    Eyrarbakki

    63°51'42"N, 21°8'28"W

    Aurora probability in Eyrarbakki: 0%

    A charming village on the south coast of Iceland, Eyrarbakki boasts a rich history, colourful wooden houses and a picturesque harbour, offering a delightful glimpse into Iceland’s past and present.

  • A view of the Borgarnes mountains from a green field in Iceland

    Credit: Job Savelsberg

    Borgarnes

    64°32'40"N, 21°54'37"W

    Aurora probability in Borgarnes: 0%

    Borgarnes, a charming town in West Iceland, offers a blend of history and natural beauty, with its quaint harbour, views of the surrounding mountains and close proximity to several of Iceland’s iconic attractions.

Other places in Iceland

Akureyri•​Vík

See also

Home•​Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​Best Time Of Year To See The Northern Lights•​See The Aurora Without Leaving Your Home•​Can You See The Northern Lights From Where You Live?•​Aurora Glossary

Laugardalurinn

Home / Iceland / Reykjavík / Laugardalurinn

Laugardalurinn is a Park at Engjavegur, Reykjavík, Ísland

Website • Phone: +354 411 1111

Where to find Laugardalurinn?

64°8'28"N, 21°52'29"W

What do people think of Laugardalurinn?

  • 4.8

  • If you're traveling alone use the GrayLine for all your touring. They are fantastic! I felt utterly taken care of. Great drivers too!

    Fran W21 July 2017

  • Uppáhaldsstaðurinn minn í borginni, ekki spurning. Hef samt aldrei vitað fólk eins sjúkt í að leggja ólöglega. Er það manni lífshættulegt að ganga nokkur skref? Það er pæling...

    Lilja H27 August 2011

Other places to try near Laugardalurinn