If seeing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are on your bucket list then Sweden should absolutely be on your list of places to visit.
Can I See The Northern Lights In Sweden?
The answer is a definitive yes. Generally, the best Northern Lights start around very late August / beginning of September and continue right through until early April. Make a note, when the snow is falling, the sky is generally more cloudy so you will have to be patient. This is because the Northern Lights are generally not visible when there is heavy cloud cover. Remember, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomena so you can never be guaranteed that you’ll see them but you can give yourself the best possible chance!
When is the best time in Sweden to see the northern lights?
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Sweden is between very late August / beginning of September and right through until early April.
How to see Northern Lights Sweden?
Simply go outside! Depending on how dark it is, how cold it is and where you’re staying it is sometimes possible to see the Northern Lights by stepping outside into the crisp evening air. If you’re in a built up area with heavy light pollution though it is far less likely you’ll see the Aurora. You need to get yourself away from light pollution, in fact, get away from any light source.
The time of year does also have a huge impact on if you will or won’t get to see the magical aurora. If you’re travelling to Sweden in May, June, July or early August then this isn’t an ideal time to see the aurora as there is essentially 24 hours of daylight – also known as the Midnight Sun.
We feature our top 6 locations across Sweden to see the northern lights
1. Kiruna
Kiruna is a fantastic spot to witness the Northern Lights in Sweden for several reasons. The region has various resorts, including the renowned Icehotels, offering a delightful experience while awaiting the captivating Aurora spectacle. For a truly immersive experience, you can choose to stay in an Aurora hut with a glass roof, which enhances your chances of catching the celestial display. Moreover, Kiruna offers fun activities to indulge in, ensuring an unforgettable trip. Situated approximately 250km north of the Arctic Circle, Kiruna benefits from long winter nights, significantly increasing the opportunities to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights in all their splendor.
2. Abisko
Abisko is a prime location, there are several reasons why it stands out as an excellent spot to witness the Northern Lights. NASA has recognized Abisko National Park as one of the finest places in the world to view the aurora. The park’s remote setting ensures minimal light pollution, providing an ideal environment for observing the display in the night skies. Moreover, the surrounding mountains create a unique microclimate meaning there is less likely to have cloud cover which increases the chances to see the Aurora.
3. Bjorkliden
Bjorkliden is an ideal destination for witnessing the Northern Lights, offering unique advantages that make it a great spot for aurora enthusiasts. Situated in close proximity to Abisko, visitors to Bjorkliden not only have the opportunity to experience the mesmerizing auroras but also enjoy the added bonus of daytime skiing adventures. This combination of thrilling aurora hunting and daytime skiing creates a perfect blend of winter activities and ensures an unforgettable journey to witness the enchanting Northern Lights.
4. Lulea
Lulea is an excellent choice for witnessing the Northern Lights, the city is highly accessible and offers a variety of options to suit all budgets, making it an attractive destination for couples and families alike. During peak winter days, the daylight hours are slightly longer, providing ample time for engaging in thrilling activities like husky sledging and other winter adventures. Moreover, even with the extended daylight, Lulea still offers promising opportunities to witness the mesmerizing auroras in the evenings.
5. Pajala
Pajala is an exceptional choice for experiencing the Northern Lights, despite its smaller size, Pajala boasts high-end accommodations that provide a luxurious and intimate feel. Here, you can escape the hustle and bustle and indulge in personalized service that caters to your every need. After a day of exploration, you can unwind with a delectable home-cooked meal that ensures a relaxing experience. As night falls, the excitement continues with the opportunity to enjoy an evening hot tub session, all while keeping a keen eye out for the breathtaking Northern Lights dancing in the Arctic sky. Pajala’s exquisite blend of opulence, tranquility, and prime aurora viewing conditions promises an unforgettable journey to witness the celestial wonder of the auroras in ultimate comfort and style.
6. Harads
Harads offers unparalleled experiences that make it an excellent spot for aurora enthusiasts. The region is home to two of the world’s most unique accommodations, providing an opportunity to try something different while enjoying the perfect setting for Northern Lights viewing. Additionally, Harads is renowned for its dark skies, creating an optimal environment for observing the mesmerizing auroras. With its one-of-a-kind lodgings and the promise of captivating night skies, Harads presents an ideal combination for those seeking an extraordinary and magical encounter with the celestial wonder of the Northern Lights.
Additional Tips…
The midnight sun package in Sweden is worth a trip in the Summer months. With relaxed evenings where the sun doesn’t set this is the perfect opportunity for lazy beers around a fire with new friends. There won’t be any snow and make sure you pack some bug spray but the summer and autumn in Sweden is truly a beautiful time.
If you do prefer to visit Sweden in Summer, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy and healthy. It’s a great place for hiking, river rafting, berry picking and simply disconnecting from the world. The peacefulness of the Swedish wilderness has to be experienced to be believed. If you’re looking for a more active holiday then you can’t go wrong in the summer in Sweden – surround yourself with the freshest air and water you can drink straight from the river – some of the cleanest waters in the world.
The traditional activities such as snowmobiling or husky sledging are of course not available in the Summer/Autumn months due to the lack of snow. So if you’re looking for a break that combines the Snow and the Northern Lights then you’re really looking from mid-November onward. Like the Aurora borealis though, it’s never possible to guarantee snow however – based on over a decade of experience – snow tends to start falling around the beginning of November so there should be good snow coverage from Mid November onward.
Discover our Sweden Northern Lights Holiday packages that include guided trips to the very best areas to view the Northern Lights! You might even spot them from your accommodation – especially if you opt for a glass igloo.
Contact the team at Arctic Direct today!
