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.

Tórshavn

Home / Faroe Islands / Tórshavn

Tórshavn, the charming capital of the Faroe Islands, is an excellent base for hunting the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Tórshavn is well-connected, making it easy to reach various viewing spots across the islands. You can rent a car or join guided tours that take you to the best locations. The city itself offers beautiful coastal views. Take a walk through historic Tinganes and imagine the aurora borealis dancing above the colourful houses along the harbour or reflecting off the choppy waves of the North Atlantic.

The best time to witness the Northern Lights in the Faroe Islands is from November to February. During these months, the nights are long and dark, providing optimal conditions for aurora sightings.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Tórshavn. 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

1%

There is a 1% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Tórshavn area (forecast for 11 July 2026 at 8:59am UTC)

Kp 2.33

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 20 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 3 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 5 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

Waning crescent 24%

Sunrise 4:00am

Sunset 11:04pm

Moonrise 11:50pm

Moonset 10:00pm

Weather Forecast for Tórshavn

Clouds

11°C Feels like 11°C

High
12°C
Low
10°C

  • Chance of precipitation 0%

  • Cloud cover 30%

  • South-Westerly winds 7 km/h gusts of 9 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Tórshavn

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

  • Free cancellation

    Sightseeing Around Nólsoy to see Puffins

    4.5 (36)

    2 hours From £151.32

    Take a break from your busy life and treat yourself to a relaxing boat tour around the beautiful Island of Nólsoy. With this two-hour trip, you can take in the amazing sights of the Eastern side of Nólsoy, sail past two lighthouses, and witness the majestic birdlife - including puffins! This is the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and get back to nature. With this boat tour, you can enjoy the breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere that the island has to offer. So don't miss out - purchase your two-hour boat trip around Nólsoy today!

  • Free cancellation Private tour

    Waterfall Tour in Faroe Islands

    4.8 (16)

    6 hours From £455.71

    Travel to the most sought-after waterfalls in the Faroe Islands. Experience the natural wonder of tumbling water from cliffs and to sea. You will get close to Múlafossur waterfall on Vágar Island, Fossá waterfall on Streymoy Island and all the many waterfalls finding their way down the hillside in the secluded village Saksun on Streymoy Island.

  • Free cancellation

    Faroe Islands: Highlights Tour

    5.0 (10)

    6 - 8 hours From £233.11

    Join us for a beautiful private tour of the highlights of the Faroe Islands where we'll stop at a few must-see spots and some extra ones along the way, while doing our best to avoid the crowds. We’ll head out of the city via the old mountain road route to Norðadalsskarð, a photographer’s dream, where you will have a moment to enjoy the panoramic view. First stop is the picturesque Saksun surrounded by a mountain amphitheatre right in front of Pollurin lagoon. Saksun is a hidden gem located about 10 minutes away from the main road especially know for the turf roof and natural beauty. Heading onwards, it will take us around half an hour to reach the village of Tjørnuvík. Tjørnuvík lays nestled in a valley surrounded by high mountains and boasts a striking black sandy beach, famous amongst cold waters surfers. Afterwards, we drive through the old mountain road on our wayt to visit the cosy village of Gjógv, named after its deep gorge and known for its beautiful and unique scenery.

  • Vestmanna Sea Cliffs, Leynar and Kvívík in Faroe Islands

    5.0 (2)

    6 hours From £279.85

    The boat glides near towering cliffs where puffins chatter and guillemots growl. A puffin dives, emerging with fish before soaring 600 meters up. Below, a seal curiously watches. Just beyond Vestmanna’s harbor, we explore one of Europe’s most impressive bird cliffs. Departing from Tórshavn, this two-hour boat tour offers incredible views of seabirds nesting on sheer basalt walls, sailing between towering rock formations and deep caves sculpted by the sea. Along the way, the guide shares stories of ships seeking shelter and pirates raiding Vestmanna. The tour also includes a visit to Leynar, home to a white sandy beach, colorful houses, and wild salmon leaping up its river. Next, we explore Kvívík, one of the first Viking settlements, where ancient ruins reveal early Faroese life.

  • Private tour

    Faroe Islands Private Northern Islands Tour

    No reviews

    6 hours From £438.18

    Discover the serenity of the Northern Islands on our private tour tailored just for you. With a personal driver guide at your service, navigate the enchanting landscapes of the north. This exclusive journey allows you to savor the breathtaking beauty of the northern isles in privacy. Uncover the secrets of local legends and enjoy the freedom to customize your exploration, making it a truly private and immersive experience in the Faroes. Join us on this trip to explore some of the northern islands, recognizable for their tall, steep mountains and lush, green valleys. Expect the views and lighting constantly change as we drive around, through, or even under these mountains. We’ll visit the biggest fishing town in the Faroe Islands, a few deserted villages, and take a stroll in the northernmost village in the Faroes. You’ll get to hear folklores about Vikings, local heroes and legends as we pass wooden churches, powerful waterfalls, massive cliffs, and spots that made movie backdrops.

  • Free cancellation

    Súðuroy Island Day Tour, Faroe Islands

    4.8 (4)

    10 hours From £350.31

    Heimdal Tours are one of the very few tour companies to offer this tour to one of the most picturesque, yet still undiscovered parts of the Faroe Islands. We will take the 08:45 ferry from Tórshavn which takes 2 hours and we pass the islands of Nólsoy, Sandoy and Skúvoy. On arrival in the port of Tvøroyri, we will take you on a tour of Suðuroy, probably the most beautiful island from the road. We will visit most of the villages and make time to relax and take lunch in Tvøroyri Afterwards we will drive up to the northern tip of the island and tell the end of the Faroese saga history, as this was the scene for one of the main events. We will stop in Hvalba on our way back to the ferry, where we will visit the ancient coal mines, in operation from the 1770’s. We will also regale the story of how three ships filled with pirates landed and ravaged the village of Hvalba. We will then take the ferry back to Tórshavn, leaving you to reflect on a great day and a memorable tour!

Places to check out around Tórshavn

Explore more nearby Tórshavn

  • Turf roofed stone building at Saksun

    Credit: Annie Spratt

    Saksun

    62°14'33"N, 7°10'19"W

    Aurora probability in Saksun: 1%

    Saksun, a remote village nestled in a natural amphitheatre on the Faroe Islands, is renowned for its stunning fjord, traditional turf-roofed houses and serene beauty, offering visitors a glimpse into authentic island life amidst dramatic landscapes.

  • Gjógv, the most northern village on Eysturoy

    Credit: Annie Spratt

    Gjógv

    62°19'17"N, 6°56'16"W

    Aurora probability in Gjógv: 1%

    Gjógv, a picturesque village on the Faroe Islands, is famed for its stunning natural harbour carved by a sea gorge, traditional grass-roofed houses and breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and the North Atlantic Ocean.

  • The famous Múlafossur waterfall plunges directly into the ocean at Gásadalur

    Credit: Hans Christian Strikert

    Gásadalur

    62°6'26"N, 7°26'2"W

    Aurora probability in Gásadalur: 1%

    Gásadalur, a remote village on the Faroe Islands, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including the iconic Múlafossur waterfall that cascades directly into the ocean and its dramatic cliffside location offering stunning views of the North Atlantic.

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