Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, but what truly makes it shine is the incredible variety of natural locations just outside the city. Whether you’re joining a guided tour or venturing out on your own, knowing where to go for the best aurora views can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll cover the 10 best spots to see the northern lights around Tromsø, including how to get there, what makes each location unique, and local tips for the best possible experience.
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Why Leave the City?
While Tromsø itself is under the auroral oval and can get great displays, city lights often wash out the view. Getting just 15–45 minutes outside the center brings you to darker skies, dramatic fjords, and snow-covered peaks — the perfect setting for an aurora show.
1. Ersfjordbotn
Distance from Tromsø: 25 km | Travel time: 30–40 minutes by car or bus
Why it’s great:
Ersfjordbotn is a stunning fjord surrounded by steep mountains and is often referred to as one of the most photogenic northern lights spots in Troms county. There’s minimal light pollution and calm waters that sometimes reflect the aurora — making for breathtaking shots.
How to get there:
Take a rental car or Bus 425 from Tromsø center (daytime service). Bring a headlamp for walking after dark.
2. Kvaløya (Storelva to Grotfjord)
Distance: 20–50 km | Travel time: 30–60 minutes
Why it’s great:
Kvaløya (Whale Island) is filled with top-tier aurora spots. As you drive west, the skies get darker and the scenery more remote. Areas like Storelva, Kattfjord, and Grotfjord offer wide-open skies, frozen lakes, and rugged peaks — ideal for dramatic northern lights displays.
Local tip:
Check cloud forecasts — conditions can vary from fjord to fjord. If one side of the island is cloudy, the other may be clear.
3. Prestvannet Lake
Distance: 2.5 km from Tromsø center | Travel time: 10–15 minutes on foot
Why it’s great:
If you don’t have a car, Prestvannet is your best city-adjacent option. Located on a hill above Tromsø, it offers darker skies and a good view to the north. The lake often freezes in winter, allowing reflections of the aurora in the ice.
How to get there:
Walk uphill from the city or take Bus 26.
Best for:
Budget travelers, solo explorers, or anyone short on time.
4. Telegrafbukta Beach
Distance: 3.5 km | Travel time: 25–30 minutes walk
Why it’s great:
A quiet beach at the southern tip of Tromsø island with north-facing views across the fjord. Though close to town, it’s surprisingly dark — especially further along the walking path past the main beach area.
Pro tip:
Go on a clear night after 9 PM for the best chance at dark skies and fewer crowds.
5. Tromvik
Distance: 50 km | Travel time: 1–1.5 hours by car
Why it’s great:
Remote and stunning, Tromvik is a small fishing village at the edge of Kvaløya with zero light pollution. You’ll get wide skies, ocean views, and deep Arctic silence. Perfect for serious aurora photographers.
Caution:
Check road conditions in winter — snow and ice can be challenging.
6. Oldervik
Distance: 40 km northeast of Tromsø | Travel time: 45–60 minutes
Why it’s great:
Facing north toward the Barents Sea, Oldervik is backed by mountains and surrounded by fjords. The village is small, quiet, and excellent for uninterrupted aurora viewing.
How to get there:
Best accessed by rental car. Great choice if clouds are covering western areas like Kvaløya.
7. Lyngen Alps Region (Svensby, Lyngseidet)
Distance: ~70–90 km | Travel time: 1.5–2.5 hours including ferry
Why it’s great:
The Lyngen Alps are pure Arctic wilderness — sharp peaks, deep valleys, and wide-open skies. It’s remote, but many tour companies run overnight trips and aurora adventures here. The snow-covered scenery adds an extra layer of magic to the aurora display.
Best for:
Overnight trips or multi-day aurora escapes.
8. Skulsfjord
Distance: 35 km | Travel time: ~45 minutes
Why it’s great:
Another gem on Kvaløya, Skulsfjord is quieter than Ersfjordbotn and a favorite among locals. Clear, dark skies and excellent conditions for long-exposure photography.
Bonus:
You might spot reindeer along the road here in winter!
9. Sommarøy
Distance: 60 km | Travel time: 1.5 hours by car
Why it’s great:
This Arctic beach village is straight out of a postcard. In winter, it transforms into a frozen wonderland, with white sand beaches and clear skies — perfect for aurora over the ocean photos.
Stay overnight:
Several seaside cabins and hotels offer “aurora alarms” and dark skies right outside your door.
10. Aurora Domes and Camps Outside the City
If you’d rather not chase the lights yourself, book a stay at an aurora dome, glass-roofed cabin, or northern lights camp outside Tromsø. These offer guided viewing, hot drinks, and warm shelters — ideal for families or those looking for comfort with their adventure.
Examples:
- Camp Tamok
- Green Gold Villa Domes
- Northern Lights Basecamp in Kvaløya
Tips for Seeing the Aurora Around Tromsø
- Check the cloud forecast: Clear skies matter more than high KP levels.
- Use apps: My Aurora Forecast, Aurora Alerts, and Windy are must-haves.
- Dress properly: Multiple layers, thermal boots, gloves, and wool socks.
- Bring a tripod: For photography, it’s essential.
- Rent a car if possible: You’ll get access to much better locations.
- Join a tour if needed: Local guides will take you where the skies are clearest.
Final Thoughts: Chase the Light, Not the Hype
Tromsø is one of the few places in the world where you can drive 30 minutes and be standing by a fjord under a dancing sky of green, pink, and violet. Whether you’re a seasoned aurora chaser or a first-time visitor, these best spots to see the northern lights around Tromsø give you front-row seats to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring shows.
Plan your aurora adventure at HelloTromso.no — your guide to the best northern lights tours, locations, and insider tips.
