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

Plan your northern lights trip with expert travel advice, real-time aurora forecasts and destination guides. Whether you’re chasing the aurora borealis across Scandinavia, Iceland or the Canadian wilderness, we’ll help you find the best time and place to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

Canada

Banff •Churchill •Edmonton •Jasper •Whitehorse •Yellowknife

Faroe Islands

Tórshavn

Finland

Inari •Levi •Luosto •Rovaniemi

Greenland

Ilulissat •Kangerlussuaq •Nuuk •Qaqortoq

Iceland

Akureyri •Reykjavík •Vík

Norway

Alta •Bodø •Lofoten •Tromsø

Shetland

Lerwick

Svalbard

Longyearbyen

Sweden

Abisko •Björkliden •Kiruna

USA

Anchorage •Fairbanks •Healy

See also

Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​About Seek The Aurora

Tromsø

Home / Norway / Tromsø

Tromsø, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Arctic," is one of the best places in Norway—and indeed the world—to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). This vibrant city, rich in culture and surrounded by stunning landscapes, offers an incredible experience for travelers seeking the magical dance of the Aurora.

Tromsø lies above the Arctic Circle, providing excellent visibility for the Northern Lights, especially during the winter months. The city is not only a prime Aurora viewing spot but also a cultural hub with museums, festivals and local cuisine. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø is from September to April, with peak visibility from December to February when the nights are longest.

A visit to Tromsø for the Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience, blending breathtaking natural phenomena with rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, Tromsø offers something for everyone looking to explore the Arctic magic.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

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

18%

There is a 18% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Tromsø area (forecast for 11 April 2026 at 7:58pm UTC)

HPI 21 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.

Density 2.67 p/cm3

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimetre (p/cm3).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm3.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 595.8 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Light Levels

Moon

Waning crescent 42%

Sunrise 5:02am

Sunset 8:27pm

Weather Forecast for Tromsø

Clouds

6°C Feels like 4°C

High
8°C
Low
2°C

  • Chance of precipitation 0%

  • Cloud cover 45%

  • Southerly winds 4 km/h gusts of 5 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Tromsø

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

  • Free cancellation

    Tromso Aurora Hunt with Bonfire, Meal, Winter Suit & Photos

    4.8 (2411)

    5 - 8 hours From £144.45

    Come with us for your Aurora hunt for an amazing and ethical experience underneath the Aurora Borealis. Leave the light pollution in Tromsø behind and travel into the Arctic wilderness. During this tour, our small team of Aurora guides check the forecasts & use local knowledge to decide on the best place to chase the Northern Lights. When we find the best spot, we will dress in warm thermal suits, make a cosy campfire, and enjoy a warm meal. You'll be shown how to use your camera, photograph the Aurora, and our guides will take photos of you, available for free in web-sized resolution after the tour. Enjoy our hot drinks before being returned to Tromsø island to your hotel. Though there is never a guarantee of seeing this phenomenon, our experienced team will do their best every night of the season.

  • Free cancellation

    Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso

    4.7 (394)

    4 hours From £119.58

    Cruise with us on our hybrid-electric boat and visit a local fjord with some surprising sights and stories. Amplify your experience with unspoiled nature and wildlife. From fish below to birds above. Step ashore in an old fishing facility and learn about the traditions and lifeline of many Norwegian coastal towns.* Our friendly guides will share stories and knowledge about local culture, history and nature while on the lookout for wildlife. With our underwater drone we will explore the hidden world underneath the surface of the ocean.* Our on board cafe has a selection of local food and drinks available for purchase. *Stop at the fishing facility and underwater drone activities are weather dependent.

  • Free cancellation Likely to sell out

    Tromso Self-Drive Husky Dog Sledding

    4.9 (786)

    4 hours From £268.85

    You will be driving your own sled and team of dogs in pairs, an experienced guide will lead your tour on the trail (group size is 20 guests maximum) - Drive your own team of huskies, in pairs you will share control of a dog sled and team of 5-6 Alaskan Huskies - Training is provided on how to control your sled and an experienced guide will lead your tour on the trail - 70-80 minutes of dog sledding in the Arctic wilderness - Afterwards, enjoy cake and a warm drink in the Lavvu - All necessary equipment to keep you safe and warm is provided. Minimum age 7 years Join us for the experience of a lifetime, mushing your own team of dogs across the Arctic wilderness. Meet our kennel of 130 beautiful Alaskan Huskies. These are the running dogs of the Arctic, born and bred with a passion to pull. You will have plenty of opportunities to swap between driver and passenger throughout the trip, as well as a chance to cuddle the dogs once back at the kennel.

  • Free cancellation

    Tromso Northern Lights Minibus Chase Small Group Tour with Photos

    4.8 (1287)

    7 - 9 hours From £172.54

    One of Tromso’s Top-Rated Northern Lights Tour – Stunning Portraits & Arctic Comfort Join Tromso’s most award-winning Northern Lights experience – with 9× TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, Tripadvisor Hall of Fame status, and over 2,500 Excellent reviews. We don’t just chase the aurora – we capture professional portraits of you beneath it, creating magical keepsakes you’ll treasure for life. With a 93.44% success rate (season 2024/2025), real-time weather tracking and flexible routing give you one of the highest chances in the Arctic. Stay warm in our premium winter suits and boots – all included. Led by Aurora experts since 2012 and trusted by 97%+ satisfied guests, this small-group tour offers deep knowledge, personal service, and unforgettable memories. Operated by Arctic Explorers or premium partners offering identical quality. Book early – this bestseller fills up fast!

  • Free cancellation

    Tromsø: Northern Lights Adventure with Expert Guides and Photos

    4.4 (248)

    6 - 8 hours From £119.58

    Experience the Northern Lights on an Unforgettable Adventure in Tromsø, Northern Norway Join a local expert and explore the Arctic landscapes while chasing the magical aurora borealis. Stay warm in our provided thermal suits and enjoy a light snack by the fire as you soak in the enchanting atmosphere. A professional photographer will capture your moments, ensuring you leave with stunning keepsakes of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. These are shared as a complimentary courtesy after the tour. All our large buses come with onboard toilets, making your tour comfortable from start to finish. And if you’re unlucky enough not to see the Northern Lights, you’ll get 50% off your next trip! The meeting point and drop-off locations are conveniently within walking distance of many central Tromsø hotels, making your late-night return easy and stress-free.

  • Free cancellation

    Reindeer Feeding and Sami Culture Including Lunch from Tromso

    4.7 (542)

    4 hours From £135.63

    The reindeer and the Sami have been living and working on this land for centuries and they have only recently invited guests to be part of their daily life. You will visit their camp and have a chance to feed the herd of around 300 wild reindeer who will swarm all around and some will even eat from your hands. You will then be invited for hot drinks around the fire inside a warm candlelit gamme (Traditional Sami Hut) where lunch, bidos, cooked over the open fire will be served (a traditional Sami stew which is often served at Sami weddings and other special occasions). After lunch you will be invited into a lavvu (Sami tent) and gather around the fire to listen to stories about Sami culture and how it is to be a reindeer herder. The Sami guide will also perform a joik (traditional Sami song) for the guests.

Places to check out around Tromsø

Explore more nearby Tromsø

  • Colourful wooden buildings by the water on Sommarøy island

    Credit: Stock Birken

    Sommarøy

    69°38'4"N, 18°0'46"E

    Aurora probability in Sommarøy: 18%

    Sommarøy, a picturesque island fishing village, offers stunning white-sand beaches and the magical experience of the midnight sun in summer and northern lights in winter, making it a true Arctic paradise.

  • Aurora Borealis in the sky over the sea and mountains on Kvaløya island

    Credit: Yoann Lechaux

    Kvaløya

    69°36'59"N, 18°32'59"E

    Aurora probability in Kvaløya: 18%

    Kvaløya is an island is a haven for nature lovers, with dramatic mountains, picturesque fishing villages and excellent opportunities for whale watching and hiking.

  • Northern lights over Husøy

    Credit: Alejandro G

    Husøy

    69°32'20"N, 17°39'33"E

    Aurora probability in Husøy: 18%

    A tiny, charming village on the island of Senja, Husøy is a traditional fishing community with colourful houses clinging to the edge of the sea, offering a glimpse into the authentic Arctic lifestyle.

Other places in Norway

Alta•​Bodø•​Lofoten

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•​About Seek The Aurora