Optimal Times and Locations to Experience the Northern Lights in Sweden 2023

Every adventurer should witness the Northern Lights in Sweden. The sky dazzles with vibrant hues of pink, green, and purple, offering a breathtaking spectacle that lingers in your memory.

Starting in early September, the Aurora Borealis can be observed around the northern Swedish town of Kiruna. By winter, nearly a quarter of Sweden provides a view of the Northern Lights. You can still catch glimpses of these shimmering rainbows as late as the end of March or early April.

Enthusiasts of the Northern Lights in Sweden eagerly anticipate the long winter nights. The ideal time to observe the Northern Lights is between 6:00 pm and 2:00 am on clear evenings, with the most spectacular displays typically occurring between 10:00 and 11:00 p.m.

Best Locations to Experience the Northern Lights in Sweden

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Typically, the Northern Lights are visible only in the far northern regions of Sweden. The nearer you are to the so-called aurora zone, the higher your chances of witnessing a breathtaking display in the sky.

The prime location in Sweden for viewing the Northern Lights is the vast area extending from Jokkmokk to the northern reaches of Norway. These regions are where you can anticipate frequent displays throughout the winter months.

Here’s some exciting news: a large part of northern Sweden falls within the ideal zone for observing the Northern Lights. These towns offer you the best opportunities to catch a glimpse of this spectacular phenomenon.

1. Abisko

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Situated just an hour's drive from Sweden's northernmost town, Abisko has emerged as a favored spot for those eager to witness the Northern Lights. It's hard to imagine a better vantage point in all of Sweden for experiencing this natural wonder.

Abisko benefits from the protection of a surrounding mountain range, which minimizes precipitation. This leads to more clear nights and spectacular light displays. Additionally, with minimal light pollution, being 90 kilometers away from the nearest city, it offers an ideal environment. Importantly, it is also enveloped by a wildlife reserve.

The pursuit of the Northern Lights has become a thriving business, with the town's largest hostel featuring prominently on every backpacker's itinerary. This makes it an excellent choice for solo adventurers, groups, and families due to its private room options.

2. Luleå

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The lively university town of Luleå sits along the Gulf of Bothnia, just under 100 kilometers from the Arctic Circle. Thanks to its scenic waterfront, the Luleå archipelago can be easily explored from October to March, offering the best chances to witness the Northern Lights.

Luleå offers wooden cabins nestled in the woods by the lake at reasonable rates, making it an attractive choice for experiencing the Northern Lights.

3. Riksgränsen

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Located above the Arctic Circle near the Norwegian border, Riksgränsen is Sweden's northernmost ski resort. It not only ranks among the best in Sweden for both downhill and off-piste skiing but also offers excellent opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, thanks to its stunning lakes, mountains, and expansive wilderness.

Located about three kilometers from the center of Riksgränsen, the Katterjokk Turiststation is ideally situated next to the Katterjkkliften ski lift. From here, you can also join a Northern Lights tour.

4. Kiruna

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Kiruna, the northernmost town in Sweden, lies above the Arctic Circle and offers fantastic chances to experience the aurora borealis. Here, you can also enjoy a range of winter sports, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing.

Located just outside the city, the Aurora Dome features two luxurious dome tents with transparent tops, perfect for stargazing. If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodation, there are trendy hotels close to the bus station.

Kiruna is a large industrial town, so to escape the light pollution, you'll need to travel quite a distance from the city center. A good alternative is Jukkasjärvi, a Sami village just a twenty-minute drive to the east, which is far enough from Kiruna's lights to offer breathtaking views.

You can also experience a stay at Sweden’s original ice hotel in Jukkasjärvi. The ICEHOTEL, which operates only in winter, features uniquely decorated rooms with beds made of ice.

Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights in Sweden 2023

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The visibility of the northern lights depends on several factors, including solar activity and weather conditions. If you have to pick, the two seasons right before and after winter in Sweden offer the best opportunities to see the lights. Additionally, these shoulder seasons, from late September to early November and from March to April, provide a favorable mix of day and night.

Refer to this table to discover the optimal times for witnessing the Northern Lights in Sweden 2023!

Also check out: Pursuing the Northern Lights in Norway: The Complete Guide

Final Thoughts

The entire Swedish Lapland area is perfect for witnessing the Northern Lights, particularly from September to March. Therefore, if you find yourself in this beautiful region during that period, we highly encourage you to stroll through the forests and gaze upward to witness a stunning showcase of nature's brilliance.

Experiencing the Northern Lights in Sweden is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Be sure to pack your tripod and camera to capture the moment. Additionally, download Mytour, your all-in-one lifestyle app, to enhance your stay in Sweden!