Top Spots to See Northern Lights in Tromso: 1 Minute to Discover the Best Locations for the Aurora Borealis

Tromso, located deep within Norway’s Arctic Circle, is rightfully dubbed one of the best places on earth to witness the magical aurora borealis. Each year, thousands flock to this northern city in pursuit of shimmering ribbons of green, pink, and purple that dance against the polar night sky. But to maximize your chances (and your comfort!), picking the best viewing locations is critical. As a designer, I always consider both natural beauty and the experience a space can create—so here are Tromso’s top spots for northern lights chasing, as well as tips to elevate your adventure.

Best Places in Tromso to See Northern Lights

1. Ersfjordbotn: Just a 20-minute drive from Tromso center, this serene fjord offers a natural “arena” framed by dramatic mountains—creating a breathtaking composition for watching the lights. Minimal light pollution and wide horizons make this spot a photographer’s dream.

2. Tromvik & Sommaroy: Head west from Tromso to find tiny fishing villages like Tromvik and the enchanting island of Sommaroy. These coastal spots combine open skies with reflective waters, amplifying the aurora’s intensity. Their remote setting ensures clear, unobstructed views.

3. Prestvannet Lake: Located centrally on Tromsoya (the city’s main island), this small lake allows you to stay within city limits while escaping strong artificial lights. The snow-covered landscape in winter adds a magical contrast beneath the auroras.

4. Kvaloya Island: A short drive from central Tromso, Kvaloya (meaning “Whale Island”) offers numerous scenic points like Hella and Hakoya. The dramatic coastline and mountains make every northern lights sighting even more mesmerizing.

5. Cable Car Mountain Station (Fjellheisen): Take Tromso’s iconic cable car up Mount Storsteinen for a panoramic view over the city and surrounding wilderness. The elevation lets you see auroras stretching across the skyline, and the café atop offers shelter between sightings.

As a designer, I always think about how natural backdrops and man-made elements influence spatial experiences. For instance, incorporating panoramic windows, warm outdoor lighting, or even thoughtfully-arranged seating at home can mirror the awe-inspiring feeling you get while aurora chasing in Tromso. If you’re inspired to recreate some of this magical atmosphere indoors, consider exploring innovative visualizations with a 3D Render Home tool. This lets you experiment with ambient lighting, window placements, and color palettes—capturing that northern Scandinavian serenity in your very own space.

Tips 1:

Dress in warm, layered clothing—Arctic nights are cold and often windy. Bring a tripod for capturing those spectacular photos, and always check the aurora forecast (KP index 3 or higher means good chances). Don’t forget that the best displays often occur between 9pm and 2am!

FAQ

Q: When is the best time of year to see northern lights in Tromso?

A: The aurora season lasts from late September to early April, with peak visibility in the dark months of November through January. Q: Are there guided tours for northern lights in Tromso?

A: Yes, many operators offer minibus, boat, or snowmobile tours led by experienced guides who know the best spots based on weather and solar activity. Q: Is it possible to see the northern lights from central Tromso?

A: Occasionally, yes, especially if the aurora is strong and the sky is clear. But you’ll have a higher chance by heading just outside the city to darker areas. Q: What camera settings work best for photographing the aurora?

A: Use a tripod, set your camera to manual mode, a wide aperture (f/2.8-f/4), high ISO (800-3200), and an exposure time between 5-15 seconds. Q: Are the northern lights visible every night in Tromso?

A: No, auroras depend on solar activity and clear skies. Check local forecasts and stay for several nights to increase your chances.