• Expeditions
  • Complimentary Brochures

Northern Lights

Embark on an illuminating once-in-a-lifetime voyage in search of the elusive aurora borealis, or northern lights. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Arctic landscapes and rich traditions of the indigenous Sami people, who have a deep connection with the land.

northern lights tour from london

In Search of the Northern Lights

  • PRICE & BUILD

Sign up to receive updates from Viking

Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content.

Company Information

  • Order a Brochure
  • Special Offers
  • Sweepstakes
  • Travel Advisors
  • Media Center
  • Health & Safety Program
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • Manage Cookies

Viking River Cruises

  • Mississippi

Viking Ocean Cruises

  • Scandinavia
  • British Isles & Ireland
  • North America
  • Caribbean & Central America
  • South America
  • Mediterranean
  • Quiet Season Mediterranean
  • Australia & New Zealand
  • World Cruises
  • Grand Journeys

Viking Expeditions

  • Great Lakes
  • Longitudinal World Cruises

northern lights tour from london

4-Day Spring Sale

  • Save $500-$800 per couple
  • $25 Deposit
  • Up to free International Airfare

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

  • Travel Update
  • Search Suggested Results View All Results
  • EUR (€)
  • GBP (£)
  • Self-Drive i
  • Privately Guided i
  • Guided Small Groups i
  • Northern Lights i
  • Honeymoon & Romance i
  • Ice & Snow Hotels i
  • All Travel Styles
  • Show all tours
  • Best Sellers
  • Special Offers
  • Scandinavia
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • Book With Confidence i
  • Why book with us i
  • Booking Terms i
  • Sustainability Policy i
  • Manage Booking
  • Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

Northern Lights Tour Packages

Venture to the northern hemisphere to hunt for the aurora borealis and see this breathtaking natural phenomenon first hand. Your northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor comes with accommodation, activities and transport included.

Clean grey shield icon

Witness the aurora borealis dancing above you and explore jaw-dropping landscapes in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Why choose northern lights tours in Iceland?

  • Chase the lights on guided excursions from Reykjavík
  • Stay at remote lodges with dark skies for aurora viewing
  • Discover natural wonders like glaciers and ice caves
  • Bathe in hot springs surrounded by wintry scenery

Golden Circle Classic - Winter

Golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, northern lights circle tour.

Level 2 (Classic)

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Level 2 (Moderate)

Hunt for the aurora borealis in Norway and admire the dramatic mountains, coastline and islands of the north.

Why go aurora-hunting in Norway?

  • Marvel at the lights on an aurora coastal cruise
  • Embark on a dog sledding northern lights safari
  • Enjoy guided aurora excursions from Tromsø
  • Stay at the extraordinary Kirkenes Snow Hotel

Northern Lights by Train and Cruise

Tromsø, flåm & the fjords, best of northern norway classic - 71° north cape, northern lights & cruise, northern lights norway classic.

Experience snowy scenery, Sami culture and winter activities in Finnish or Swedish Lapland on a northern lights adventure.

Why chase the northern lights in Lapland?

  • Enjoy an enchanting aurora tour by snowmobile
  • Gaze up at the northern lights from a cosy glass igloo
  • Stay in a room made of ice at the legendary ICEHOTEL
  • Witness the aurora dancing above Abisko National Park

Best of Lapland - Guaranteed Departure

December 18, 2024, best of rovaniemi - classic, santa claus village & dog sledding, lapland adventure - aurora sky station & icehotel.

Journey to a remote land and seek out the northern lights in Svalbard, an Arctic archipelago at the edge of the world.

Why look for the northern lights in Svalbard?

  • Experience the mesmerising light of the polar night
  • Visit the world’s northernmost town, Longyearbyen
  • Go on thrilling dog sledding and snowmobiling tours
  • See polar bears and seals in the wild

Best of Svalbard Winter - Express

Best of svalbard winter - classic, need any help so far get in touch with us.

Live chat with travel consultants

Send your queries using our contact form

Call us toll-free to ask your questions

About Your Northern Lights Vacation

Discover the magic of the aurora borealis* on an unforgettable northern lights tour. Explore beautiful destinations in the Nordics on an itinerary that local travel experts have meticulously organised for you.

When you book a northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor, you get:

• An authentic travel experience planned by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant to organise your tour • All relevant bookings for your chosen package • A detailed online personal itinerary • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 emergency phone support for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your winter tour. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

*Please note, the northern lights are a natural occurrence and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Clean grey shield icon

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

nv trusted logo sized

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a highly rated tour agency in Northern Europe. Our travel experts create authentic journeys filled with the best activities and destinations. They are locally based and add their in-depth knowledge to all northern lights itineraries.

Tripadvisor great reviews icon

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when Tripadvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Hassle free thumb up icon

Stress-free experience

Our travel consultants will plan and book your trip on your behalf. You’ll receive a personalised itinerary with your accommodation and activities all arranged for you. That way you can leave all the practicalities to someone else, while you relax and look forward to your northern lights adventure.

Customised tours icon

Flexible tour options

The Nordic Visitor travel team has designed our northern lights packages to include the very best routes and experiences. However, if you’d like to add extra nights, attractions or destinations, your personal travel consultant will happily tailor your northern lights package.

Good hands heart icon

You are in good hands

Should you encounter any unexpected weather or events during your tour, don’t worry. Nordic Visitor will be there for you throughout your trip. We will take care of reworking your itinerary while keeping you safe and informed. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 emergency helpline for peace of mind.

Secure payments lock icon

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR REVIEWS

Here’s what our wonderful customers liked about their northern lights experiences.

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but... read more

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but this experience has given me no doubt in using Nordic Visitor again to book a holiday in the future to another Nordic destination.

Kim Singapore

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use... read more

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use Nordic Visitor again for future vacations.

Tripadvisor logo horizontal

Northern Lights Vacation Highlights

Picture yourself in a stunning winter landscape in the northern hemisphere. You’re wrapped up warm and the world’s greatest light show is about to begin. Opt for a Nordic Visitor northern lights tour, and you could…

  • Take a guided tour from Reykjavík to hunt for the northern lights in Iceland
  • Explore ice caves on a guided glacier hike in Vatnajökull , home to Europe’s largest glacier
  • Venture to the remote Westfjords to chase the aurora and try snowshoeing
  • Go dog sledding and snowmobiling in Tromsø , Norway, or Longyearbyen , Svalbard
  • Discover charming fishing villages, mountains and marine wildlife in the Lofoten Islands
  • Sample Norwegian delicacies in Kirkenes , such as red king crab, Arctic char and cloudberries
  • Join an unforgettable snowmobiling , dog sledding or snowshoeing aurora safari in Lapland
  • Visit the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park for dinner with a view of the northern lights
  • Stay in an ice hotel or glass igloo, such as the ICEHOTEL , SnowCastle or SnowHotel

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS

For tips on viewing the northern lights, read on. We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions about Nordic aurora borealis tours here to help you make your dream trip a reality.

Alternatively, find out how to make a booking , have a look at our FAQs , or learn about our Book With Confidence travel plan.

1. ARE THE NORDICS SAFE TO TRAVEL TO?

Yes, the Nordics are widely regarded as safe for visitors. Actually, the Nordic nations – Iceland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland – continually rank among the top 10 safest places in the world . This is because they have low crime rates, good standards of healthcare, and excellent road safety.

2. WHAT ARE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon. You can see them illuminating the sky when charged particles from solar flares collide with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere, near the North Pole. This collision creates varied shapes and colours that ripple, flash or glow in the sky.

3. WHAT MONTHS CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS?

You have the best chance of spotting the aurora borealis in the winter months – October to April. To make out the colours of the aurora, you need dark winter nights. In the summer, daylight hours are so long that you’ll find the sky is too bright to see the glowing lights.

As it is a natural occurrence, spotting the northern lights is not guaranteed. But you can increase your chances of witnessing them by visiting the Arctic Circle in winter.

4. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

As you need a dark sky to distinguish the aurora, the best time to see the northern lights is at night. The peak hours tend to be between 11 PM and 2 AM, which is why your guided tour will likely depart after 9 PM.

You could also stay at a hotel with an aurora wake-up service. The staff will let you know if the lights come out late in the night, so you don’t have to stay up waiting for them!

The best time of year to see the northern lights is winter, between October and April. This is when Nordic nights are the longest and darkest, which means you have higher chances of catching sight of the aurora.

Winter is a great time to visit the Nordics for other reasons too. Check out these guides to the top winter activities you can enjoy:

Things to do in Norway in winter

Things to do in Iceland in winter

Things to do in Lapland in winter

5. WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

You can see the aurora borealis at high northern latitudes, especially around the Arctic Circle, as this is where solar activity is strongest. That’s why the Nordic region is the best place to see the northern lights. Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Svalbard all lie within or near the Arctic Circle.

In fact, Iceland and the northern regions of Norway, Sweden and Finland are located within the “aurora zone”. Also known as the “northern lights belt”, this is a latitudinal band between 65-72°N where high auroral frequency and intensity occurs. Visit this zone for the best chance of seeing the aurora.

Learn more about where and when to see the northern lights with these expert guides:

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Europe

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Norway

6. WHERE CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS IN SCANDINAVIA?

Norway, Sweden and Denmark are the countries that make up Scandinavia. If you want to go to Scandinavia to hunt for the aurora borealis, your best bet is to visit the northern parts of this region – Swedish Lapland and Northern Norway. It is unlikely you’ll see the aurora in Denmark.

You can witness the northern lights in the neighbouring Nordic nations of Finland and Iceland too. Although these countries aren’t technically part of Scandinavia, they have many similarities and also happen to be great places to catch the aurora borealis!

Lapland – an area covering northern Sweden and Finland – is a fantastic destination for aurora chasing. You could head to Rovaniemi and Kemi in Finnish Lapland, or Abisko National Park near Kiruna in Swedish Lapland.

Or visit Northern Norway for your aurora borealis tour. Take your pick from Norwegian destinations such as Tromsø, Svalbard, Kirkenes, the Lofoten Islands and Nordkapp (North Cape).

Alternatively, go in search of the aurora borealis in Iceland. With its wide open skies and location near the Arctic Circle, you could see the lights from anywhere in the country. For your best chances though, head away from towns with street lights so you can spot the colours more easily.

In Scandinavia you could seek out the aurora borealis in the countryside or on the coast. Plus, not only can you enjoy northern lights tours, but also bucket list activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and staying in an ice hotel.

Discover more reasons to visit Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland on our ultimate Scandinavia guide .

7. HOW TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

To see the aurora borealis, you need to be in a northern country on a clear, dark night, away from artificial lights. Although the aurora don’t show up on demand, these top tips will give you the best chances of witnessing them.

Firstly, make sure you visit northern regions close to the Arctic Circle. Iceland, Northern Norway, Svalbard and Lapland are the best destinations to see the northern lights in Europe.

Secondly, time your aurora borealis tour for the European winter. The long, dark nights will help you spot the colours lighting up the sky.

Thirdly, avoid light pollution found in built-up areas. This means heading into the countryside where there is less artificial light compared to towns and cities. You could spend some days out in remote areas, or opt for guided evening tours from your city base instead.

Another thing you can do for northern light viewings is check the weather and aurora forecast . Although you can’t do this very far in advance, during your trip you’ll be able to find out if the evening will be clear of cloud or rain and if solar activity will be strong.

You’d also increase your chances of seeing the aurora borealis by taking a guided tour. A local expert would accompany you and take you to all the best spots, sharing their insider knowledge with you.

Read our article on how to see the northern lights for more viewing tips.

8. HOW LONG DO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS LAST?

When the aurora borealis are treating you to their glorious light show, you might find they glow for a few minutes. The lights can show up several times in one night, or last for a couple of hours in one go.

There is no rule as to how long the aurora borealis last, of course, as they are a natural occurrence. If you see them for yourself, no doubt you’ll cherish every second of their beautiful magic.

9. HOW DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH THE AURORA BOREALIS?

The northern lights can be tricky to capture on camera, but with some preparation and the right equipment you can do it. Here are some top tips for photographing the northern lights:

  • Use an SLR camera with manual focus
  • Bring a tripod as you’ll need to do a long exposure shot
  • Get a remote shutter release so you don’t have to touch the camera at all
  • Use a slow shutter speed of between 15 and 30 seconds

For more tips on photographing the aurora, see our northern lights travel guide .

10. WHAT SHOULD YOU WEAR TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

It can get rather cold in the Nordic winter, especially if there’s a cool wind. The last thing you want is to feel the chill while you hunt for the aurora borealis at night. That’s why it’s important you pack the right clothing before your trip.

Many northern lights tours will provide you with thermal suits to help you stay warm while you’re out chasing the aurora. It’s also recommended that you wear warm layers underneath.

Here is an essential packing list:

  • Insulated jacket and trousers (windproof and waterproof)
  • Thermal wool underlayers
  • Warm hat, gloves and scarf
  • Warm and sturdy boots

Get more packing advice by reading our experts’ tips and tricks on dressing for northern lights viewing .

11. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

Yes, you can select your chosen arrival date online when reserving your Nordic Visitor tour. For northern lights packages, the arrival dates are between October and April as this is the aurora viewing season.

12. CAN I EXTEND MY TOUR BY A DAY OR TWO?

Absolutely! If you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, you can request this when booking your tour online. Your dedicated travel consultant will get in touch to confirm the extra days with you.

If you are taking a small group tour, you can add extra nights to the start or end of your trip. This is because the group tour itself is fixed as you will be exploring with fellow visitors on a fixed itinerary.

13. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TICKETS?

You should book your flights once your Nordic Visitor package is confirmed. We recommend you check flights beforehand to find appropriate dates and prices, but only purchase them after your travel consultant has secured your northern lights tour.

Your Nordic Visitor consultant will send you a confirmation email with all the details you need to buy suitable flights.

14. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY TRIP?

The weather is somewhat unpredictable in the Nordics, no matter the time of year you visit. In winter you should always come prepared for cold temperatures, which means bringing warm clothing. Here are the essential items that we recommend you pack for your trip:

  • Warm jumpers or fleeces
  • Waterproof and thermal jackets
  • Gloves, scarves and hats
  • Insulated, waterproof boots
  • Thermal underlayers
  • Waterproof trousers

For more detailed information on what to pack for your Nordic tour, read our travel guides for Iceland , Norway and Lapland .

Get in touch with us to start planning your trip or for more advice on how to see the aurora borealis. Our travel experts will be delighted to arrange an unforgettable northern lights tour for you.

Our main phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts

Blog Articles

How to see the northern lights: viewing tips, best times & places to see the northern lights in europe, best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland, a little something about the northern lights.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

here to help

How to see the Northern Lights from London for less than £250

You don't even need to take a day's annual leave to cross viewing the legendary natural phenomenon off your bucket list.

  • 11:12, 24 OCT 2022

On average, 37 per cent of the typical bucket list is European and 34 per cent admitted there are plenty of places in Europe they are yet to explore.

Living in a city as busy as London, it can be hard to pull time away from a hectic schedule to try the things that will one day make the best stories.

Top of many people's bucket lists is seeing the Northern Lights and now there's a way Londoners can view this iconic Natural Wonder of the World without even taking a single day of annual leave.

READ MORE: 'I went to the beautiful but underrated spot between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales and it's even better than both'

Traditionally to view this natural light show would mean needing to stay under the auroral oval, this means travelling to Iceland, northern parts of Sweden, Finland, Norway, Russia, Canada, Alaska or southern Greenland. Instead you can see the natural phenomena from the sky and head right back home.

Omega Breaks offer a series of round trip flights that will take you to see the lights from the sky and you can get a flight from Stansted and Gatwick Airport. The 3-3.5 hour flights give you the chance to see the natural phenomenon from the night sky with commentary from The BBC's Sky at Night astronomy experts who are on the plane with you.

First off you head to your chosen airport and either inside or at a nearby hotel you will get two presentations about all the information you need going into the experience. Then it's straight to the departure lounge to experience the Northern Lights from the sky.

In order to properly appreciate the lights, your eyes have to adapt to the darkness. As a result the cabin lights are reduced to the maximum level around 25 minutes before you're expected to see the lights.

As you go through the night sky expert astronomers will explain what you're seeing through the window.

To keep things as fair as possible, passengers have to swap seats throughout the experience to give everyone a chance to see the lights out of the window - if you want your own row to yourself, this can be arranged for an extra charge.

Once you've experienced the spectacle, the cabin lights are switched back on and refreshments are served as you make your way back to London.

You can book to see the lights from London this November, February and March from £229 .

As the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon successful sightings are not guaranteed.

However organisers Omega Breaks say they take weather and other conditions into consideration and tries to eliminate factors that would make it difficult to see the spectacle.

  • Heathrow and Gatwick: Travel expert reveals how to stop your luggage from going to the 'baggage graveyard' in America

‘I went from London Heathrow to Madrid and back for the weekend by plane and I’m amazed how easy travelling to Spain is now Covid restrictions are over'

'I went to the beautiful but underrated spot between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales and it's even better than both'

  • Most Recent

northern lights tour from london

  • Account Menu
  • Summer Holidays
  • Winter Holidays
  • Cruise Holidays
  • Self Drive Tours
  • Hotels Descriptions
  • Tours & Excursions
  • Northern Lights
  • Escorted Tours
  • Luxury Iceland

JavaScript appears to be disabled in your browser. JavaScript must be enabled in order to utilise the full functionalilty of this website.

Absolute Iceland

Northern Lights 3 or 4 Nts from London Heathrow

northern lights tour from london

Our 3 or 4 nights Northern Lights break is a great way to try and see this amazing phenomenon.

You’ll fly from London Heathrow airport and stay 3 or 4 Nights in the Cabin Hotel or similar in Reykjavik. This popular hotel offers clean and comfortable accommodation, just 15 minutes walk from this fascinating and exciting city centre with countless bars and restaurants. The hotel itself offers a traditional buffet breakfast each morning and has an inviting bar.

On the first night (or night of your choice) you’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken in search of the Northern light. The expert English speaking guide will have done their homework and plotted the best area to see the lights, so you’ll head out of Reykjavik away from the light pollution in search of the dancing lights.

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis are a spectacular natural phenomenon, often seen dancing around in fantastic colours across the Icelandic Arctic sky. They are caused by the interaction of particles from the sun with the upper atmosphere near the North Pole. That creates this wonderful light effect, known as the Aurora Borealis. Of course this tour is depending on weather and sightings are not guaranteed. If you don't see any lights on your tour you are welcome to join the tour again free of charge on the following nights.

This break offers you plenty of time to get a taste of Iceland and explore Reykjavik and whilst the city is fairly small and you can see plenty just walking the city streets, why not take our city tour? You’ll also have time to take in other of the popular tours, why not chill out in the warm water of the famous Blue Lagoon or see some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural sights on the Golden Circle tour or maybe head out into the bay in search of the Whales, the choice is almost endless and you’ll find all the tours and prices in our tour section.

Once it comes to say goodbye to Iceland we’re sure you’ll have loved your Northern Lights break and on the way back to London Heathrow you’ll be wishing you were back in Reykjavik.

Transfers are not included in the price of the Northern Lights break, we offer the Flybus plus transfer from Keflavik airport to your hotel and back for just £39pp return.

We can offer the tour with any of the other hotels we feature in our hotel section, just make a request for the hotel of your choice and

we’ll get right back to you with a price. Our prices are based on the cheapest departure date in any month and correct at time of publishing and subject to availability.

September 2021 3 Nights £299

September 2021 4 Nights £319

October 2021 3 Nights £289

October 2021 4 Nights £309

November 2021 3 Nights £289

November 2021 4 Nights £319

December 2021 3 Nights £269

December 2021 4 Nights £309

January 2022 3 Nights £269

January 2022 4 Nights £299

February 2022 3 Nights £269

February 2022 4 Nights £299

March 2022 3 Nights £259

March 2022 4 Nights £279

northern lights tour from london

Be the first to get all the news and exclusive offers first.

northern lights tour from london

Accessibility Links

sundaytimes logo

12 best northern lights cruises for a spectacular adventure

Maximise your chances of seeing mother nature’s most spectacular light show dancing across the night sky on a sailing into the arctic circle.

Viewing the northern lights on a Hurtigruten voyage

N o photograph or television documentary can prepare you for seeing the northern lights in real life. They are one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena and cruises, which sail beneath the aurora oval, provide some of the best chances of spotting the aurora borealis in all their glory. The best time for sightings is from September through to April in Norway, Greenland and Iceland. You can keep cosy in panoramic observation lounges before going out on deck if the lights make an appearance. Additionally, shore tours seek out the best potential viewing spots based on meteorological forecasts. Here’s our pick of the best northern lights cruises.

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

Caribbean Princess

1. Princess Cruises

Choose how you hunt for the northern lights this 13-night trip to and from Southampton on the 3,140-passenger Caribbean Princess. On the overnight in Alta you can head to the Paeskatun centre, set at the top of a slate quarry, with sweeping views over the dark winter sky, Here you can watch a film presentation on the myths, history and science behind the lights and warm up in cosy cottages with hot drinks and cakes. The alternative viewing spot is a longer trip to a camp site to look for Mother Nature’s marvel.

Best suited to six months+ Price ££ Family-friendly Y

Ambassador’s Ambience

2. Ambassador Cruise Line

One of the latest cruise lines to launch sailings to seek out the aurora is Ambassador. It’s the first British cruise line to do so in more than a decade and has convenient, value-for-money, round-trip voyages from Tilbury, Bristol, Newcastle and Dundee. These include a 14-night sailing on its recently launched second ship, the 1,200-passenger Ambition. Highlights include visits to former Viking strongholds Haugesund and Trondheim, and Arctic Circle calls in Alta, Narvik and Bodo.

Advertisement

Best suited to 50+ Price £ Family-friendly N

Olsen Art Studio on the Borealis

3. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

Create a very personal souvenir as you go in search of the northern lights with an art session on Bolette and Borealis; watercolour classes to help you capture the awe-inspiring night-time display are held aboard both ships in the Olsen Art Studio. You can book a nine-night sailing on Balmoral out of Newcastle — a shorter than typical trip due to the closer proximity of the departure point to Norway . Depending on where you live, there are also convenient sailings with longer voyages from Southampton, Portsmouth and Newcastle.

Best suited to 50+ Price ££ Family-friendly N

The northern lights over the Norwegian village of Hamnoy

4. P&O Cruises

Sailing to and from Southampton, P&O runs dedicated northern lights cruises on its adult-only ship Aurora. During these 12-night sailings you’ll sail along the dramatic coast of Norway to the fringes of the Arctic Circle and also visit the country’s beautiful fjords, including 550m-deep Romsdalsfjord. On a shore tour in Alta you’ll meet a northern lights expert who monitors the skies and aurora borealis forecast beforehand to help pick the best location for the day.

Best suited to 21+ Price ££ Family-friendly N

• Things you might not know about the northern lights

Search for the northern lights in style aboard Cunard’s stylish Queen Anne, the line’s first new ship in 12 years. The 12-night, round-trip Southampton sailing includes several days at sea to explore the 3,000-passenger vessel and indulge in the signature afternoon tea served by white-gloved waiters. You’ll visit Narvik, one of the world’s most northerly towns, where a ride on the cable car is the best way to experience breathtaking views over the fjords and Arctic landscape. Sailings from Southampton are also available on Cunard’s ocean liner and flagship Queen Mary 2.

Best suited to 12+ Price £££ Family-friendly Y

A Hurtigruten expedition day at Tjongsfjorden in Norway (Espen Mills)

6. Hurtigruten

Although sightings of the northern lights can never be 100 per cent guaranteed, Norwegian cruise specialist Hurtigruten is so confident you’ll see them that it has a “Northern Lights Promise” on selected sailings — if the lights don’t put on a show, you’ll enjoy a future Classic Voyage sailing free of charge. Dedicated trips in search of the aurora borealis include a 13-night round-trip expedition cruise from Amsterdam on MS Maud. It features a day on Senja, one of the most ruggedly beautiful and lesser-visited Norwegian islands.

Best suited to 14+ Price ££ Family-friendly N

A Viking cruise encounters the northern lights at Alta, Norway

As well as the chance to view the northern lights, Viking’s sailings offer exciting excursions to experience local culture and traditions. The adult-only line, which has its roots in Norway, has a reputation for creating curated and insightful tours. On the 12-night northern lights itinerary aboard Viking Venus from London Tilbury to Bergen, or in reverse, these include Polar Park, the world’s northernmost wildlife park. Here, you’ll meet wolves on an extraordinary tour led by a wildlife biologist. Other activities include a snowshoe hike above Bergen and learning the winter sport of curling.

• Best ways to see the northern lights: our top tips

Under the northern lights with Havila in the Lofoten islands (Havila Voyages)

8. Havila Voyages

The new kid on the block along the Norwegian coast is Havila Voyages, which has a fleet of four eco-friendly ships that launched in 2022. The line has a variety of options to sail part or all of the way along the classic route from Bergen to Kirkenes and back, with the round trip taking 11 nights. Observation lounges have glass roofs and reclining chairs to view the Arctic sky and you can push a button on the cabin telephone to be woken up in the night if the lights appear. It also has a northern lights promise — if the phenomenon doesn’t appear during a 12-day sailing, passengers get a free week-long voyage.

havilavoyages.com

Try husky sledding on a Saga trip (Alamy)

Cross the Arctic Circle on a 15-night itinerary available on Saga’s two 999-passenger ships, Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery. Cruises sail to and from Portsmouth and to increase your odds of seeing the light show there’s an overnight stay in Tromso, where you can visit the Polar Museum or embark on an exhilarating husky or reindeer sledding ride. You’ll be joined by experts from the conservation charity Orca who will be out on deck to host seabird and wildlife spotting sessions.

Visiting remote Ittoqqortoormiit in East Greenland with Quark (Acacia Johnson)

10. Quark Expeditions

Explore Iceland and Greenland, two of the last unspoilt wilderness areas on the planet, with Quark Expeditions. Sailing round-trip from Reykjavik on the 128-passenger ice-class ship Ocean Adventurer, the 13-night Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland itinerary takes in Iceland’s mountainous Westfjords and Greenland’s rugged and isolated northeast coast, home to the largest fjord system in the world. The ship sails to Ittoqqortoormiit, the most remote inhabited community in the western hemisphere, where polar bears are frequently sighted and there’s a good chance of seeing the northern lights.

Best suited to 21+ Price £££ Family-friendly N

• Best northern lights igloos and bubble domes

Trollfjord in Norway’s Lofoten Islands, an Aurora destination

11. Aurora Expeditions

Embark on an epic sailing in 2024 aboard the 132-passenger Greg Mortimer, the first expedition cruise vessel to feature a striking inverted bow design for smoother sailing. Aurora Expedition’s 19-night Northern Lights Explorer sailing from Kirkenes to Reykjavik will hug coastlines in the Arctic Circle and explore far-flung islands and villages. Highlights include a visit to Unesco-listed Vega Island, a centre for the production of duck eiderdown, and a planned landing at Jan Mayen where the Beerenberg volcano is the world’s northernmost active volcano, last erupting in 1985.

Ponant’s Le Champlain, sister ship of Le Bellot, in the Norwegian fjords

In 2024 luxury line Ponant features its first-ever winter cruise holidays in Norway. On the ten-night Nordic Discoveries & Traditions itinerary you’ll sail to and from Tromso on the elegant 184-passenger Le Bellot or Le Champlain. Timed to coincide with the best chance of viewing the northern lights, the cruise will also have an accent on the region’s cultural traditions, with shore tours to meet the indigenous Sami people, who have been reindeer herders since the 17th century, and the chance to try your hand at dog sledding, ice fishing and snowshoeing.

• Best northern lights tours: Iceland, Lapland and Canada

Take me there

Inspired to book a Northern Lights cruise? Here are the best cruising options with Fred Olsen and Cruise 118 .

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

Related articles

15 best tours of Iceland

northern lights tour from london

Northern Lights Luxury Holiday Packages For 2024 & 2025

Tick the amazing northern lights off your bucket list.

  • Sweden Holidays
  • Norway Holidays
  • Tromso Holidays
  • Greenland Holidays
  • Lapland Holidays
  • Finland Holidays
  • Iceland Holidays
  • North Pole Holidays
  • Finland Glass Igloo Holiday
  • Finland Ice Hotel Holiday
  • Iceland Ice Hotel Holiday
  • Norway Ice Hotel Holiday
  • Sweden Ice Hotel Holiday
  • Norway Northern Lights
  • Finland Northern Lights
  • Sweden Northern Lights
  • Lapland Northern Lights
  • Scuba Diving
  • Finland, Christmas Holiday
  • Lapland, Christmas Holiday

Northern Lights Holiday Packages

More than half the population has named a Northern Lights holiday as part of their bucket list. This natural phenomenon, known as the Aurora Borealis, is the famous colourful lights that can be seen across the Arctic night sky. However, seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed as their appearance differs by location and season. While the Northern Lights appear in the Arctic – places which are located remotely, far up in the North feature much lower light pollution which makes for a greater display of the Aurora. The Northern Lights season starts in September and ends by the end of March.

Our Arctic experts have created a selection of amazing luxury northern lights holiday Packages for 2024 & 2025 which enhance your chances of seeing the Northern Lights greatly. Whether this means sleeping in a Glass Igloo which allows you to spectate the northern skies from the warmth and comfort of your bed – or spending a night in an Ice Hotel which features an Aurora alarm. Our team has carefully selected various unique accommodation types to give you the most opportunities to see the Aurora Borealis.

What our customers say

northern lights tour from london

Mattarahkka certainly lived up to its billing. The hosts were excellent: friendly and always obliging. We enjoyed the activities and we were fortunate to see the Aurora on our final night!

northern lights tour from london

  • Santa Visit
  • Northern Lights Hunt
  • Family Husky Safari
  • Prices from per family of 4

northern lights tour from london

  • Couples Holiday
  • Romantic Package
  • Prices from per person

northern lights tour from london

  • Northern Lights Holiday
  • Panorama Cabin

northern lights tour from london

  • Fine Dining experience

northern lights tour from london

  • Northern Lights Excursions
  • Aurora Bubble Accommodation

northern lights tour from london

  • Aurora Cabin
  • Husky Safaris

northern lights tour from london

  • Northern Lights prime location
  • Tepee Dining
  • Arctic Excursions

northern lights tour from london

  • Luxury Christmas Experience
  • Northern Lights
  • From price based on a family of 4 (2A + 2C under 14)

Wilderness Resort Northern Lights

  • Direct flights
  • Wilderness escape
  • per person prices from

Whale watching Norway

  • Small group Whale watching
  • Northern Lights Alarm

northern lights tour from london

  • World's most Northernly hotel
  • Northern Lights evening
  • Snowmobile safari
  • From price per person

northern lights tour from london

  • Dog sledding
  • Wilderness Adventure
  • Prices per person from

northern lights tour from london

  • Glass Roof Aurora Cabins
  • Fantastic activities
  • Price per person from

Northern Lights

  • Glass Igloos - Special Offers
  • Aurora Bubble or Cabin - Special Offers
  • Last Minute Deals
  • From Price Per Person

northern lights tour from london

  • Perfect for Northern Lights
  • From price PP

Aurora Cabins at the Northern Light Village - Travel lwith Arctic Direct

  • Glass-roof Aurora Cabins
  • Wide range of Activities
  • Restaurant Kota and Ice bar
  • From price pp

northern lights tour from london

  • Direct Flights from Gatwick and Stanstead, Return
  • Four Activities Included
  • Three Nights Holiday Apartment
  • From price per person, based on 2 people sharing

Brandon Lodge sweden

  • Great Value for Money
  • Selection of Activities
  • Cosy and Comfortable Accommodation

Adult only Arctic Holiday

  • 4 nights Superior Sauna Room
  • 7 hour Husky Safari
  • Price from pp

Northern Light Holidays dubai flights

  • Aurora Alarm
  • 4x Activities
  • Thermal clothing for duration

Kelo glass igloo at Kakslauttanen

  • Activities included
  • Prices from Per Person

Glass Igloo Northern Lights - Kakslauttanen Deluxe

  • Glass Igloo
  • Flights and accomdation
  • Price includes 3 * activities

northern lights tour from london

  • Aurora spa visit
  • Northern Lights Snowmobile with dinner
  • Aurora Colosseum with dinner
  • Price per person

iceberg lagoon Iceland

  • 98% Northern Lights Success Rate
  • 6 opportunities to search for the Aurora in the best possible locations
  • Based on two people sharing, price from

Stockholm City and Tree Hotel Stay

  • 24 hour City Pass
  • Drive your own Husky sled
  • 2 nights Stockholm, 2 Nights Tree Hotel
  • Price PP from

northern lights tour from london

  • Hot tub for Northern lights

northern lights tour from london

  • Excellent Accommodation
  • All activities

Best guide in Iceland

  • Guesthouse with hot tub
  • Guided Activities
  • The best of Iceland

Icelandic horse riding

  • 2 days riding
  • Blue Lagoon
  • Unspoilt countryside

Northern Lights in Iceland

  • Arctic Eden Hotel
  • Husky safari
  • Northern Lights snowmobile tour

Norway Northern Lights

  • Flights included
  • Prices Per Person from

Iceland Northern Lights

  • Popular sights
  • Relax in the Hot Tub!
  • Flights & dinner included

mattarahkka lodge hot tub with northern lights

  • Northern Lights meal & hot tub
  • Day husky safari
  • All transfers

northern-lights-in-kiruna

  • Overnight Snowmobile adventure
  • Ice Hotel visit

Husky tour at Kakslauttanen Igloo Village

  • Flights London or Manchester
  • Reindeer encounter
  • Overnight snowmobile safari

Kakslauttanen Northern Lights

  • Queen Suite with Private Hot tub
  • Private horse sleigh ride
  • 3x Activities Included
  • Price from PP

Enquire Online Now

To find out more about this package, please enter your details below. Once we've reviewed your enquiry we'll be in contact to discuss how we can help. You can also call all our Arctic holiday specialists today on +44(0)1793 939035 .

  • First Name *
  • Last Name *
  • Email Address *
  • Hidden Seasonal Offer
  • Preferred Destination/ Type of holiday *
  • Preferred Departure Date * DD slash MM slash YYYY
  • Length Of Stay *
  • Children * Please enter a number less than or equal to 25 .
  • 1st child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 2nd child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 3rd child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 4th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 5th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 6th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 7th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 8th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 9th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 10th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 11th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 12th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 13th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 14th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 15th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 16th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 17th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 18th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 19th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 20th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 21st child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 22nd child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 23rd child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 24th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • 25th child’s age * Please enter a number less than or equal to 18 .
  • Preferred departure airport * Please note, most UK flights are from London and Manchester, please let us know your preferred airport but we are happy to look for other routings where possible.
  • Budget per person *
  • Further useful comments Please include any specific requirements or questions you may have
  • Please send me news and offers relating to my enquiry.
  • Please send me occasional general news and promotions relating to Arctic Travel.
  • I do not want to receive any marketing emails.

Call us today on +44(0)1793 939035

Arctic Direct is the UK’s most comprehensive Arctic Travel specialists and have helped thousands of people like you find their perfect Arctic holiday.

Unrivalled customer support Handpicked Arctic holidays

Expert advice Best prices on the web

Northern Lights Holidays

While it starts at finding the ideal accommodation – this is certainly not where it ends. Our Northern Lights holiday packages come with a selection of activities which can bring you one step closer to ticking the Northern Lights of your bucket list. These can range from a visit to the Aurora Camp to Aurora Snowshoeing. All excursions are led by local experts which know the best spots in the area to spectate the colourful display of lights.

Whether you are looking to see the  Northern Lights in Finland , Iceland, Sweden or Norway – Team Arctic Direct knows the best spots. Whether you are hoping to just see the Northern Lights or you wish to combine your adventure with another Arctic experience such as  whale watching in Norway or visiting Svalbard the Land of Polar Bears – we can design the perfect Northern Light Holiday Package for you.

Maximise your chances with a luxury Northern Lights Holiday from the experts. For a once in a lifetime trip contact us and take advantage of our knowledge and experience to ensure you the package that is right for you.

Were you also aware that a counterpart to the Northern Lights, known as the Aurora borealis, exists in the southern hemisphere? Referred to as the Southern Lights or Aurora australis, these captivating displays illuminate the skies in the southern hemisphere, mirroring the phenomenon seen in the northern hemisphere.

Expert corner:

Charlotte: “ Lapland guesthouse is just spectacular. The friendliest and most knowledgeable host, a hot tub to soak in whilst waiting for the aurora to make a show and quality home cooked meals with local ingredients. Not to mention a beautiful little bar packed with Swedish whisky! Hannah: “I have visited the Ice Hotel various times and the display of Northern Lights I was able to witness was absolutely gorgeous! Staying in an Ice Room is a unique experience that should make an addition to everyone’s bucket list.” Lou: “I have been to Kakslauttanen twice now. The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort has stolen my heart away. There is nothing quite like looking at the Northern Lights from the warmth of their beautiful traditional igloos.” Steve: “I highly recommend spending your Northern Lights Holiday at the Nellim Wilderness Hotel . The cozy Aurora Bubbles give you an amazing view of the Arctic skies – and Nellim’s packages are filled with an abundance of thrilling activities.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you wish to change your order after your payment has been processed, please call us immediately on +613 8290 0599 and we will try our best to accommodate your request.  There may be some instances where we are unable to modify your order.

Between September and April the Northern Lights can be seen somewhere in the world, and almost every night. It can be faint, it can be brief, but it is there somewhere! If you want to see them, the best chances are by going somewhere that gets them frequently and where you are least likely to have your view impeded by light pollution and cloud cover

Absolutely! Often they can look “better” or “brighter” with a camera. Particularly when it is a faint display or if your eyes aren’t fully adjusted to the dark but you can ABSOLUTELY, 100% see them with the bare eye!

The biggest thing that will stop you, is not being in the right place at the right time! We’re happy to help you get over those hurdles! If you come to us with no preconceptions of where or when you want to go, we can create a package that would give you a 90% chance of seeing them.

It can be seconds, it can be hours! That’s part of the excitement of the chase!

Sometimes! Depending on the flight times you can absolutely see the Northern Lights out of the window of an airplane!

As a rule, like we say above, between September and April the Northern Lights will be seen somewhere around the Arctic circle every night. Even if really briefly and very faint. At our top resorts generally they will be there at some time in the evening roughly 2 out of 3 nights during the peak times, you just need a clear sky, no light pollution and to be looking up at the right time!

Have our Northern Lights FAQs helped? If we haven’t answered your question then please get in touch with the Arctic Direct team at 01793 939 035 or email us !

View our other Northern Lights Holiday Destinations

northern lights tour from london

  • Destinations

Northern Lights Expedition Cruise from Dover

northern lights tour from london

Cruise Overview

Experience five magical nights above the Arctic Circle, visiting beautiful coastal destinations including Tromsø, Lofoten and Narvik along the way.

15-day Northern Lights expedition cruise from Dover to Norway

Aurora adventures 

Between October and March is the best time to see the Northern Lights. Spending five nights above the Arctic Circle offers even better odds of seeing one of nature’s most dazzling phenomena. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy a host of winter activities against the backdrop of Norway’s breathtaking scenery. 

Tradition and charm 

You'll cruise along enchanting Norwegian fjords visiting charming towns and cities, exploring up close and in comfort aboard MS Maud. Discover Norway's coastal communities and local culture with our Expedition Team.

Know before you go

Practical information you need to know

  • Expedition Health & Safety
  • Travel Entry Requirements
  • What to pack?
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Life on Board

Health and Safety

Health & Safety Onboard

The safety of our guests, our employees, and the communities we visit is our top priority.  This is why we have partnered with leading experts in health and safety to design and implement protocols/procedures across our expedition fleet.

Searching for

Available dates.

We'll help you plan where to go, when to visit and how long to stay

northern lights tour from london

Depart from Dover

Set sail for winter sights and Northern Lights 

Your Arctic expedition cruise to see the Northern Lights starts in Dover. If you have time, take a walk to Dover Castle and enjoy sparkling views of the English Channel from this historic fortress. 

 Soon it's time to board MS Maud, your home for the next 15 days. Pick up your complimentary expedition jacket, settle into your cabin, and meet your Expedition Team. 

 Watch the iconic white cliffs fade into the distance as you head for your first stop in historic Harwich. Your adventure has begun. 

northern lights tour from london

Norway bound

Ease into your journey and relax on board 

The next two days at sea will give you plenty of time to enjoy the onboard facilities, such asour hot tubs, sauna and gym. You'll also dine on delicious seasonal produce in our restaurants. 

 The Expedition Team will begin the first in their series of lectures over at the Science Center. Each member of the Expedition Team is an expert in their field. They’ll share fascinating insights about the places, history and nature you may encounter on your Norwegian coast adventure. 

 Find out about our Citizen Science projects, where you can contribute to important scientific research. Or pick up pointers on improving your wildlife and landscape images from our expedition photographers. 

northern lights tour from london

Views from Mount Hoven

Enjoy the glacial beauty of Nordfjord 

In the morning, we’ll enter Nordfjord. We’ll pass Hornelen, Europe's highest sea cliff – look out for it if your cruise is passing in daylight – and head towards Jostedalsbreen, Europe's largest glacier. 

As we cruise past picturesque inlets, you'll spy old fishing communities dating back to pre-Viking times. One of these is Loen, where we'll land if conditions are right. In the shadow of the mighty glacier, there's much to discover. 

After a short boat ride to the floating jetty, you'll take the Loen Skylift to enjoy spectacular views from the summit of Mount Hoven. After, why not join exciting activitiessuch as snowshoeing, sledding or winter kayaking. 

northern lights tour from london

Towards the Arctic Circle

Along the Helgeland coast to Arctic Norway 

As we continue our cruise, we'll be travelling under the Auroral Zone, a prime area to seethe Northern Lights. If we're lucky, we could have multiple sightings here. Our professional onboard photographer will also share some top tips for capturing the Aurora. 

As we pass Helgeland county, watch for the silhouette of the Seven Sisters mountain range through the darkness. This impressive coastal range is home tothe Torghatten mountain, with a distinct hole right through the middle. 

Your Expedition Team will continue their onboard lectures. Discover more about local folklore, or the Norwegian passion for the outdoors, known as friluftsliv .  

northern lights tour from london

Idyllic Lofoten

One of the world's most spectacular destinations 

A majestic wall of mountains signals your arrival in stunning Lofoten. The breathtaking scenery is a masterpiece of jutting snow-capped mountains, sheltered bays, untouched beaches and fishing villages. 

With its iconic red fishing huts, or rorbuer, dotted against a backdrop of granite peaks, Reine is an idyllic place to visit and photograph. And if the weather conditions don’t allow, there are plenty of other, equally memorable ports for us to explore.  

northern lights tour from london

Arctic Alta, Aurora city

Go snowmobiling or learn about Sámi culture  

Lying 70º north of the Arctic Circle, Alta is the perfect destination for winter activities such as visiting snow hotels, dogsledding and snowmobiling. Alta lies directly beneath the Auroral Oval. If conditions are right, you could be in for quite a show. 

Visit Alta’s Northern Lights Cathedral, with its striking Aurora-inspired architecture, and learn more about the science in a fascinating interactive exhibition on Northern Lights research.  

Or why not visit a Sámi village and learn more about theseindigenous and semi-nomadic reindeer herders. The Expedition Team may even give a lecture on Sámi culture. 

northern lights tour from london

Tromsø, the Arctic gateway

Join exciting winter activities in the Arctic capital 

Our Northern Lights cruise continues to the capital of the Arctic, Tromsø.Set in a majestic landscape and packed with culture and history, this small, cosmopolitan city has plenty of fascinating sights to discover.   

We’ll visit the Polar Museumto learn about the city’s Arctic and exploration heritage. See the Arctic Cathedral – with its huge stained-glass window, it’s one of the most striking landmarks in Tromsø. 

You can also take the Fjellheisen cable car to the top of Mount Fløyfjellet for incredible views. From December to April, you’ll have the chance to try exciting winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or dogsledding. 

northern lights tour from london

Historic Narvik

Discover one of the world's most northerly towns 

We arrive at Narvik in the morning. Sitting 150 miles inside the Arctic Circle and surrounded by three fjords, the town enjoys a spectacular setting. Spend some time exploring the galleries, shops and restaurants specialising in local seafood and reindeer meat. 

An important port, Narvik was a strategic target for Germany during WWII. You'll visit the Narvik War Museum and learn about the Allied troops' liberation of the town. 

Then ride the cable car to the top of Mount Narvik, or go hiking, snowshoeing or kayaking on the fjord. In the evening, we'll look out for the Northern Lights as we cross Vestfjord. 

northern lights tour from london

Expedition days

Take time to connect and learn something new 

Over the next two days, we may go off the beaten track to wherever takes our fancy. There are many islands and fjords to discover in this region. In true expedition style, we'll go ashore in our small expedition boats, giving you the chance toexperience the exhilarating feeling that comes from exploring a wild and remote island or discovering a hidden fjord. 

Activities and landings will be picked at the discretion of the Expedition Team, and they’ll draw on their in-depth knowledge of the area to bring you to the most captivating and naturally beautiful locations.  

You'll also learn more about what we've seen – with lectures from our Expedition Team or in our Science Center. You can join a Citizen Science project like Happywhale, which uses photos of sightings to track whale migrations around the world. 

northern lights tour from london

Beautiful Bergen

Visit Bergen's UNESCO-listed Bryggen district 

Enjoy the unique charm of what was once Norway's capital, Bergen. Today, it remains one of Norway's most picturesque cities, surrounded by seven mountains and the sea. 

Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Bryggen district and discover its colourful wooden wharves, dating back to the 18th century. Explore Bergen’s cobbled streets and alleys on foot, stopping at fascinating museums, artisanal boutiques, cafés or a pub for a glass of local Hansa beer along the way. 

Then enjoy a ride up Mount Fløyen on the funicular railway. At the summit, you'll find amazing views over the city. If there’s time, we might even venture into the alpine forest for a short hike. 

northern lights tour from london

Cosy Egersund

A beautiful town of wooden houses and ancient runes

You’ll love the cosy, small-town feel of Egersund, with its brightly coloured wooden houses. People have lived here since the Stone Age, and you can even find ancient runes carved into rocks nearby. It’s also one of the best natural harbours in Norway – as a fishing town, Egersund used to land more fish than anywhere else in the country.

The best way to explore is on foot. You can take a hike in the hills or enjoy exploring the town on your own. For panoramic views, hike to the viewpoint at Varberg, a short walk from the town centre.

northern lights tour from london

Homeward bound

Relax at sea as we return to Dover

As you cruise back across the North Sea to Dover, you'll have time to relax and look back on some of the incredible experiences you've enjoyed on this expedition cruise. Spend time in the Explorer Lounge & Bar with your fellow adventurers or relax in the hot tubs or sauna.

You can also enlist the help of our onboard photographer for editing tips on the photos you've taken on this cruise. If you have more questions about the Northern Lights and Norway, our Expedition Team will be on hand to fill in any gaps – head to the Science Center to discover more.

northern lights tour from london

Return to England

Unforgettable memories of Norway in winter

We pass the White Cliffs of Dover during the early morning. After breakfast, it's time to head ashore.

Dover is the gateway to the English countryside, so before you rush off, why not visit Dover Castle or the Roman lighthouse, reputedly the UK’s oldest building. You can also tour the underground hospital and secret WWII tunnels beneath the castle.

As your expedition ends, you'll take with you wonderful memories of coastal Norway in winter, Norwegian culture and history, and with any luck, the Northern Lights.

northern lights tour from london

What's included

Expedition Cruise

  • A stay in a cabin of your choice 
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurants Aune and Fredheim 
  • À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests 
  • Complimentary tea and coffee 
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi on board† 
  • Complimentary reusable water bottle 
  • English-speaking Expedition Team leading activities on board and ashore 
  • Range of included activities 

Onboard Activities

  • In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team 
  • Full use of our Science Center, extensive library and advanced biological and geological equipment 
  • Citizen Science Programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research 
  • Photography tips and techniques for capturing landscape and wildlife from our onboard professional photographer 
  • Use of ship's hot tubs, panoramic sauna and indoor gym 
  • Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings 

Landing Activities

  • Escorted landings with small expedition boats 
  • Trekking poles, head lamps and walking poles available if necessary 
  • Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket 
  • Expedition photographers on hand to assist you 
  • All planned activities are subject to weather conditions 
  • Excursions and activities are subject to change 
  • Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
  • No gratuities expected 

What's not included

International flights 

Travel insurance 

Luggage handling 

Optional shore excursions with our local partners 

Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

Excursions & Activities

Learn more about what you can experience when going with us

Reine-Norway-HGR-149787-Photo_Oscar_Farrera.jpg

Reine - The Fishing Village of Å

Located at the western tip of the archipelago, Å is a unique historical attraction. Here, you’ll find one of the best preserved old fishing villages in Norway, offering a variety of opportunities to experience life in the Lofoten fisheries through the last 250 years.

Stamsund-Norway-HGR-145943-Photo___rjan_Bertelsen.jpg

Reine - Visit the Vikings

Surrounded by stunning mountains and fjords, you will be taken more than 1000 years back in time - visit the Vikings!

tromso_aslak-tronrud_2500x1250.jpg

The Polar Museum

Learn the history of Arctic exploration and see equipment from polar expeditions and hunters.

Related cruises

Christmas Expedition Cruise from Dover

Christmas Expedition Cruise from Dover

q2 exp 2500x764 b2c landingpage 2

Sign up for our newsletter

Be the first to hear about our latest offers, exciting itineraries and inspirational articles.

  • English - EN
  • Espanol - ES
  • 1-866-933-7368(U.S)
  • 1-626-389-8668(Int)
  • [email protected]
  • New? Register Here
  • Rewards4fun
  • North America
  • Latin America

USA West

  • Los Angeles
  • San Francisco

USA East

  • New York City
  • Niagara Falls
  • Washington D.C
  • Miami / Orlando
  • New Orleans

Canada West

  • Yellowknife

Canada East

  • Prince Edward Island

National Parks

  • Grand Canyon
  • Northern Lights
  • Antelope Canyon
  • Yellowstone
  • Canadian Rockies

Nature

【All-inclusive Tour】3-Day Northern Lights/Northern Landscapes Tour from London: Peak District, Llandudno, Snowdonia, Lake District and Windermere

  • Pick-up Details/Transfers
  • Meeting Point
  • Special Notes
  • Traveler Photos

Share

Tour Themes: Nature

Get in touch with Mother Earth

Tour Type: Guided Tour

Multiple local tour guides/drivers available throughout your tour/activity

Activity Level: Moderate

Designed for travelers in good health who are comfortable with light walking or hiking

Quality: Value

Travel with professional guides, enjoy more time at attractions and/or stay at comfortable accommodations.

London - Peak District

Hotel: Stay at Hotel or similar

Meal: B:Excluded L:Excluded D:Included

Start your journey early in the morning from London as you head north towards the enchanting Peak District, England's first National Park. This region is celebrated for its captivating landscapes, featuring rolling hills, serene lakes, and verdant woodlands, making it one of the country's most scenic areas. Traverse the National Park and be enchanted by the sight of moors, woodlands, and peaceful valleys. Your first stop will be the charming market town of Bakewell. Notably famous for its pretty courtyards, boutique shops, ambiance and, most particularly, the Bakewell Pudding or Tart. Take in the delightful atmosphere and indulge in this iconic local treat before continuing to Buxton, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Peak District National Park." Explore ancient Roman spas, admire the grand Opera House, and enjoy some leisure time for further exploration.

Visiting Attractions

Llandudno - llanberis - snowdonia.

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Included

Today, we will embark on a journey to the captivating landscapes of North Wales. Our first stop is the delightful town of Llandudno, graced by an impressive promenade that adds to its Victorian charm. Here, you will find a beautiful beach set against the picturesque backdrop of the Snowdonia Mountains. You will have the chance to enjoy some free time on Llandudno's sandy shores. Take a leisurely stroll along the longest pier in Wales or experience an exhilarating ride on Britain's only cable-operated tram, which will transport you to the summit of The Great Orme. Llandudno Museum awaits those interested in local history, and shopaholics will be delighted by the recently opened Victoria shopping center. For a unique experience, opt for a thrilling ride on the Llandudno Cable Car in Hope Valley. As the cable cars silently glide from Hope Valley to the summit of the Great Orme, you will be treated to breathtaking views of Llandudno, the Little Orme, Conwy Estuary, and beyond. The Llandudno Cable Car is the longest passenger cable car system in Britain. You can choose a return journey (an 18-minute ride) or a one-way trip, with departures available from Happy Valley or the summit. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the wonders of the Great Orme Tramway, Britain's largest and most spectacular funicular tramway. Climbing a mile to the Orme's summit, it offers sweeping vistas of Llandudno's magnificent bays and the surrounding landscape. This unique attraction has been thrilling visitors young and old for over a century and is an absolute must-see. After our adventures in Llandudno, we will head to Snowdonia National Park in Gwynedd, where we will encounter Snowdon, the tallest mountain in Wales and the highest point in the British Isles outside the Scottish Highlands. Snowdon is renowned for its vibrant natural flora and fauna and is designated as a natural nature reserve. If you choose the optional train journey, your excursion will begin at Llanberis station. From there, you will embark on an awe-inspiring adventure aboard a rack railway that will carry you to Clogwyn. The views from the train as it traverses a ridge toward the summit are nothing short of breathtaking. At the pinnacle, you will be treated to one of the world's most spectacular panoramas. For those who opt not to take the train journey, ample free time will be provided to explore the natural beauty of this area. Entrance to the Llandudno Cable Car and tramway is not included and can be booked on the day of arrival. Please be aware that the cable car attraction only accepts cash.

Lake District - Windermere - London

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

This morning, following a delightful breakfast, our journey leads us through the enchanting landscapes of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria. This remarkable region is renowned for its abundance of lakes, each offering its own unique allure, and it has been rightfully honored as a World Heritage Site for its breathtaking vistas and lush woodlands. As we traverse this picturesque terrain, prepare to be captivated by the sheer natural beauty that surrounds you. Our destination is Windermere, a town nestled amidst the splendor of the Lake District. Here, you will have the opportunity to partake in a serene boat cruise on Lake Windermere, an experience that promises tranquility and magnificent vistas. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make this excursion a perfect moment to unwind and soak in the captivating ambiance of the region. Later we drive back towards London where you bid farewell to your group.

Write a Review and earn 200 points. Attach photos to your review and earn 25 points per photo. Please check the Rewards4Fun Program FAQ for more information.

Attach photos to your review and earn 25 points per photo. Please check the Rewards4Fun Program FAQ for more information

Now go to edit Close

Edit Photo Title & Description

Questions previously answered may have different answers due to many reasons: season (date and year of travel), rates, availability, etc. Please check the Rewards4Fun Program FAQ for more information.

northern lights tour from london

AUD: A$ 263.05

EUR: A$ 263.05

GBP: A$ 263.05

USD: A$ 263.05

  • 16-24 Days Prior to Departure Date - 75% of total purchase amount can be refunded
  • 7-15 Days Prior to Departure Date - 50% of total purchase amount can be refunded
  • 6 Days Prior to Departure Date - Non-refundable

Why Book with Tours4fun?

  • Best Price Guaranteed
  • Hand-picked Tours & Activities
  • 24/7 Customer Support

Questions? 1-866-933-7368

BEST PRICE GUARANTEED

Tours4fun always guarantees the best prices possible. Customer satisfaction guaranteed!

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

We're here to help before and after your reservation. Toll Free 1-866-933-7368

SAFE AND SECURE

Latest SSL technology. All transactions 100% secure

Many of our tours and activities are available in several languages:

Your guide speaks the language.

A headset or similar audio device in the language is available.

GET UP TO $100 OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER!

You'll also receive exclusive offers and latest travel deals!

USTOA

  • About Tours4fun
  • Brand Ambassador
  • Travel Blog
  • Privacy Policy
  • Travel Insurance
  • Affiliate Program
  • Small Group Tour
  • Image Attribution

Help Center

  • Customer Service
  • My Order Status
  • Terms and Conditions

CONTACT US 24/7

  • USA & Canada: 1-866-933-7368
  • International: 1-626-389-8668

Top Destinations:

  • niagara falls
  • san francisco

Recommendations:

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Northern lights over Kirkjufell in Iceland.

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Aurora borealis over tree line in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Norther lights over landscape of Tromsø, Norway.

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Northern lights over Pyhae Luosto National Park in northern Finland.

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

Northern lights over a lake in the Scottish Highlands.

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Northern lights over trees and lights in Yellowknife, Canada.

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Two people sitting on a the ice of a lake and watching the northern lights in the north of Sweden.

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Northern lights above Hallgrimskirkja Church in central Reykjavik, Iceland.

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

Northern lights over Reynisfjara black sand beach in Iceland.

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Northern lights reflected in water with mountains in eastern Greenland.

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

A pool by windows overlooking the ocean on a Viking cruise ship.

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Northern Lights shine through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Forest.

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

northern lights tour from london

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Northern lights above trees and lake of Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota.

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Northern lights seen from Abisko Mountain Station in Abisko, Sweden.

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Northern lights above The Nellim Wilderness Hotel in Nellim, Finland.

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

Northern lights above a snowy track through trees in the Arctic.

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Sign for Stewart Island lodge on Stewart Island, New Zealand.

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Southern Aurora Australis in Tasmania.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

The aurora australis as seen over the South Pole during austral winter.

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

  • Central and northern Alaska
  • Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
  • Southern Greenland
  • Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top Waterfalls in Iceland
  • The World's Top Treehouse Hotels
  • The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World
  • The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Part of The Iguazu Falls seen from the Argentinian National Park

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 17 best costa rica tours.

Lyn Mettler April 12, 2024

northern lights tour from london

Hard vs. Soft Luggage

Rachael Hood April 12, 2024

northern lights tour from london

The Best Kauai Boat Tours

Lyn Mettler April 11, 2024

northern lights tour from london

The Top-Rated NYC Food Tours

Ann Henson April 11, 2024

northern lights tour from london

The Best Things to Do in Maine

Mariya Greeley and Nicola Wood April 10, 2024

northern lights tour from london

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

John Rodwan and Amanda Norcross April 9, 2024

northern lights tour from london

The Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows

Korrin Bishop April 9, 2024

northern lights tour from london

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 8, 2024

northern lights tour from london

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

northern lights tour from london

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

northern lights tour from london

Thanks for visiting nordicvisitor.com! For the very best browsing experience on our website, we urge you to upgrade to the most recent version of your browser . Some of our site features may not function properly on older versions.

Iceland is open: volcano update

  • Search Suggested Results View All Results
  • EUR (€)
  • GBP (£)
  • Self-Drive i
  • Privately Guided i
  • Guided Small Groups i
  • Multi-Day i
  • Northern Lights i
  • Honeymoon & Romance i
  • Solo Travel i
  • All Types & Themes
  • All Iceland Tours
  • Best Sellers
  • Special Offers
  • Book With Confidence i
  • ICELAND IS OPEN i
  • Iceland Volcano Update i
  • Why book with us i
  • Travel Update
  • Booking Terms i
  • Sustainability Policy i
  • Iceland at a Glance i
  • Useful Information i
  • Iceland Attractions i
  • Iceland Blog i
  • Scandinavia
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • Manage Booking
  • Privacy policy

Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

ICELAND TOURS FROM LONDON

Just 3 hours from London, Reykjavik is the perfect getaway for a long weekend or starting point for an adventure around Iceland’s scenic Ring Road. Enjoy a stress-free holiday in Iceland that includes well-reviewed hotels, day tours, airport transfers and more — all arranged by the local travel experts at Nordic Visitor.

VISITING ICELAND FROM LONDON

Iceland is a place of stark beauty and remote tranquility with its vast landscape of towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, and sweeping black sand beaches. With so many things to do and see in Iceland, it is a dream holiday for nature lovers and adventurers.

From bespoke city breaks in Reykjavik to custom road trips or guided tours in the countryside, you'll be able to experience many of Iceland’s famous natural attractions – waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs, volcanic sites and more – in a short holiday in Iceland from London.

No matter the month, it's always an absolutely fabulous time to visit Iceland. Most of Iceland’s top attractions are accessible year-round, even over Christmas and New Year’s, and many are within a short drive or day tour from Reykjavik. Imagine starting your day by bathing at the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa or exploring the natural wonders of the Golden Circle route.

Even in wintertime, the city centre of Reykjavik stays lively with an abundance of cafes, bars, restaurants, museums, shops, art galleries, and thermal swimming pools. There are also plenty of cultural events all year long, such as the buzzing Iceland Airwaves Music Festival in November. And don't forget this is the ideal time of year to spot the northern lights in the dark sky.

With a holiday by Nordic Visitor, you can enjoy the city and natural sights at your leisure as we handle all your local arrangements: hotels, airport transfers, optional activities and more depending on your preferences. You could even add Greenland to your Nordic itinerary for an extra wow factor.

Want to drive around the country? We recommend at least 7 days , preferably 10 days or more, to drive the Ring Road with a car hire.

As local travel experts in Iceland, we always goes the extra mile to ensure that you're safe on the road. With all self-drive tours, we provide a brochure about driving in Iceland, a road map marked with your route, accommodations and highlights, unlimited in-car Wi-Fi and much more.

Ready to plan your Iceland tour from London? Or not sure what you want to see or when to come? See the suggestions below and don't hesitate to get in touch with our local travel agents . 

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

  • Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
  • Flexible & customisable tour options
  • Value for your money
  • Professional service from local experts
  • 24/7 emergency helpline during your tour

Enjoy a city break with day tours

Stay in Reykjavik and split your time between planned excursions and your own sightseeing.

Best of South Iceland

Golden circle, south coast & blue lagoon, best of south & north iceland, golden circle, south coast & mývatn, classic south coast, golden circle classic, golden circle & blue lagoon, active iceland, snowmobiling, ice tunnel & golden circle, new year’s & northern lights, best of south iceland & new year's eve party, a new year’s to remember, northern lights, super jeeps and nye party, christmas & northern lights, christmas in iceland, reykjavik, waterfalls, northern lights, new year’s in iceland, golden circle, northern lights & nye party, a christmas to remember, super jeeps, glaciers & blue lagoon, best of south iceland - winter, golden circle classic - winter, golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, best of south & north iceland - winter, golden circle, south coast & lake mývatn, active iceland - winter, classic south coast - winter, golden circle express, golden circle express - winter, explore iceland on a road trip.

You do the driving, we handle all the accommodation booking, route planning and more.

South Iceland at Leisure

Iceland ring road express, south iceland classic, south iceland & into the glacier, south iceland at leisure - winter, glacier lagoon & northern lights, south iceland & into the glacier - winter, golden circle & south coast - winter, golden circle & south coast, highlights of westfjords & west iceland, south iceland classic - winter, 4x4 highland adventure in the south, join a guided small group in iceland.

Visit Iceland’s top attractions with a local guide and fellow travellers from around the world.

Natural Wonders of Iceland

Level 2 (Classic)

Highlights of the Ring Road

Level 3 (Express)

Scenic South Iceland

Geysers, volcanoes & glacier lagoon, complete iceland, iceland full circle & the westfjords.

1166521 ISK

The Best of South & West Iceland

Wonders of the westfjords, natural wonders of iceland - winter, northern lights circle tour, winter highlights & northern lights, ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Level 2 (Moderate)

Best of South & West Iceland - Winter

Travel with your own expert guide.

Let a local show you around Iceland and enjoy more cultural insights on a privately guided tour.

The Natural Wonders of Iceland - Private

1599766 ISK

Highlights of the Ring Road - Private

1043480 ISK

South & West Iceland Classic - Private

1208962 ISK

Scenic South Iceland - Private

Iceland luxury adventure - summer, glaciers, geysir & blue lagoon retreat.

1177270 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape at Leisure - Summer

2434168 ISK

South Iceland at Leisure - Private

1013560 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape - Summer

Best of south iceland & blue lagoon retreat.

1638870 ISK

Northern Lights Circle Tour - Private

1217702 ISK

Winter Highlights - Private

Iceland luxury escape - winter, northern lights, south iceland & blue lagoon retreat.

1794264 ISK

Golden Circle & South Coast - Summer - Private

Land of the midnight sun - private 4x4 tour, south & west iceland classic winter - private.

1220182 ISK

South Iceland at Leisure Winter - Private

1026450 ISK

Golden Circle & South Coast - Winter - Private

Iceland full circle classic - winter - private.

1598386 ISK

Iceland Luxury Adventure - Winter

Northern lights, winter wonders & blue lagoon retreat.

1157452 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape at Leisure - Winter

2328410 ISK

Iceland Luxury Adventure at Leisure - Summer

1695917 ISK

Iceland Luxury Adventure at Leisure - Winter

1639689 ISK

Highlights of Iceland in Luxury

1293652 ISK

Iceland Ring Road in Luxury - Winter

2602922 ISK

Iceland Ring Road in Luxury - Summer

2712070 ISK

STAY A LITTLE LONGER IN ICELAND

Why not take more time to explore If you have more than 7 days to spend in Iceland, here are our top picks.

Iceland Full Circle Classic

Iceland complete classic, south & west iceland classic.

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

Best of Scandinavia & Iceland

Train, cruise & minibus, iceland full circle classic - winter, the islands of fire & ice - iceland & greenland, romance around iceland, northern lights adventure in the westfjords, reykjavik, northern lights, best of scandinavia - norway cruise & iceland, the nordic countries classic, train, cruise & self-drive.

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Estonia

The Nordic Countries Complete

Best of scandinavia & iceland - winter, best of scandinavia - norway cruise & iceland - winter, south & west iceland classic - winter, iceland road trip, christmas & new year’s in iceland, northern lights & new years eve fun, iceland full circle at leisure - winter, iceland complete express, highlights of westfjords, north & west iceland, south & west iceland at leisure, iceland ultimate adventure, highlights of north & west iceland, south & west iceland at leisure - winter, iceland grand tour, iceland full circle at leisure, local travel agency.

As a travel agency with offices in Reykjavík, Edinburgh, Stockholm and Lucerne, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Europe. Choose from a variety of carefully curated tours that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights.

You can also make customisations to your itinerary by adding extra nights, optional activities, or upgrades to your tour. Or ask your personal travel consultant for advice and they will tailor your itinerary. This way you get a travel experience that is perfectly suited to you. 

Your dedicated travel consultant will arrange all the local details for you. You get accommodation, activities, transport, and other services included in your package. If you need to rework your itinerary, we’ll handle it for you so you can relax and look forward to your getaway.

Different ways you can experience Iceland

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Iceland below.

Guided Small Groups

Multi-day tours, privately guided, northern lights packages, self-drive winter, best seller, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Scott, United Kingdom

Iceland full circle classic - winter, november 2023, we had an amazing time.

We cannot recommend our tour enough. We had an amazing time and have already told friends and family about it. Iceland is an amazing place and I am sure we will be back and will use Nordic Visitor again!

James, United States

Iceland full circle classic, september 2023, experience of a lifetime.

I primarily wanted to use Nordic Visitor as a resource for creating our 14-day trip itinerary, to help weed through what seemed to be an endless array of choices, and to help us to get the very most out of our time in Iceland. Yes, we could have pieced it together ourselves but I needed an advocate in Iceland, an advisor, and maybe a resource for us if issues were to arise. That piece of mind was important to my wife and me and I'm glad we chose them to frame our trip. It made it much easier to piece in the parts that were important to us to see and experience. That allowed us to just enjoy the trip and not get bogged down in the details of planning each and every moment.

There are so many things I could say about our experience, an experience of a lifetime and after posting snippets of our trip on social media I have found that several friends of mine want to know how we planned this trip. I told them the same thing I am saying here, save a little money if you want and plan it yourself or trust a reliable source like Nordic Visitor and let them give you the trip framework and essential advice. I would do it the same way if I were doing it over.

Dean, United States

Highlights of the ring road - private, july 2023, went off without a hitch.

Everything was well-organised and went off without a hitch. The private guide was amazing. He could not have been better. I highly recommend him to anyone considering a private guide as an option. He's extremely knowledgeable about the history of the area. He knew all of the best places to go and was entertaining and delightful as well. Accommodation was all spectacular.

Christopher, Australia

Winter highlights - private, november 2023, warm and engaging guide.

Great tour. The sights are of course amazing and the tour made the most of our time, weather and our interests/priorities. Driver and guide David managed all of these very well. He was also very knowledgeable and personally warm and engaging. Could not have asked for more.

Jerine, Canada

Natural wonders of iceland, august 2023, perfect for solo traveller.

A beautiful itinerary, exceptional guide and perfect weather made this a trip I will never forget. Nordic Visitor made the process easy, and Iceland opened her arms. My 10-day small group tour was perfect for a solo traveller who wanted to see it all. 

Cynthia, United States

Best of south iceland, april 2023.

Working with Nordic Visitor was wonderful. Our travel consultant, Heddy, was quick to respond when we had a question or concern. She helped us plan a fabulous itinerary. Everything we booked through Nordic Visitor was fantastic. I have already recommended Nordic Visitor to friends, and I will continue to do so.

Kimberly, Canada

Iceland road trip, october 2023, trip of a lifetime.

Overall this was an amazing experience! A trip of a lifetime that I could never have planned myself. Any questions I had during planning were answered faster than expected and I felt safe and well looked after during the trip. Trip was smooth and hassle free.

Patricia, United States

Scenic south iceland, august 2023, 5-star experience.

Not only did we absolutely love every stop on the Scenic South Iceland tour, but prior to the tour we stayed for 4 days in Reykjavík. I appreciated Nordic Visitor's recommendations for things to do and places to eat there and felt highly supported by Marko, our travel consultant, in every regard to booking our flight and own hotel, day trips I was interested in, and taking public transport around. A definite 5-star experience!

Janice, United States

Winter highlights & northern lights, march 2023, i will certainly travel with nordic visitor again.

I cannot thank Nordic Visitor enough for providing me with a wonderful and memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything was seamless, from the pickup at the airport, to the excellent hotels, delicious food served and our friendly, knowledgeable guide, Jakob. Nothing was too much trouble - we all thoroughly enjoyed our experience in Iceland, and all came away with wonderful memories of many of the amazing sights of such a scenic country. We were even lucky enough to see the northern lights. I will certainly travel with Nordic Visitor again and would recommend them to anyone thinking about visiting the countries where they offer tours. Thank you Nordic Visitor!

David, Australia

Iceland full circle classic - winter, october 2023, many thanks to nordic visitor.

Absolutely amazing. No issues whatsoever. We saw it all from North to South and much of in between. From reindeer to whales and more beautiful waterfalls and volcanic bits than you could hope to see in a week. Every hour the scenery seemed to change dramatically. Just a great experience. Many thanks to Nordic Visitor.

Robert, United States

Romance around iceland, july 2023, best vacation we have had.

Everyone at Nordic Visitor were very responsive to all questions we had during our 30-year anniversary trip to Iceland. We had airline travel issues and the representative adjusted our itinerary so we were able to see the whole island. The accommodation were beautiful and everyone was so friendly. This was the best vacation we have had, we left Iceland relaxed!

Seth, United States

A new year’s to remember, december 2022, an amazing and unique experience.

Our tour was great! Went for our honeymoon and it was everything we wanted. First night we got to see the northern lights which were fantastic! Second day, most certainly our longest, visited several sites (Geysire & Þingvellir) and went snowmobiling on a glacier. Such an amazing and unique experience. The walking tour around Reykjavik was surprisingly educational and our guide pointed out things that we ordinarily would have missed. The NYE dinner was delicious and going out to see the firework displays by (what seemed to be like) everyone was something. Practically had to dodge fireworks! Our 4th day was spent at the Blue Lagoon; perfect after a night of partying! Our last day was nice and relaxing, did some final shopping before we headed off to the airport. Hope to go back & visit Iceland again!

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Icelandic adventure.

Þingvellir National Park

Þingvellir was declared a national park in 1930. A law was passed designating Þingvellir as “a...

The famed hot spring Geysir is located in the Haukadalur valley in southwestern Iceland. It was...

Gullfoss, or the ‘Golden Waterfall’, is a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall that drops 32...

What to pack

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all type..

Driving in Iceland

Are you prepared for your road trip? Learn the rul..

Climate & weather conditions

How icy is Iceland? You might be surprised

Time & Daylight

When to expect sunrises, sunsets, northern lights ..

Flights to Iceland

There are several flights, many on a daily basis in summer, from a number of UK gateways to  Keflavik International Airport  in Iceland. Flight times are approximately 3 hours from London.

Airlines serving Keflavik International Airport (KEF) British Airways : from London EasyJet : from London Icelandair : from London Wizz Air : from London Norwegian Air : from London

Please note that some flight routes are summer or winter-only; we recommend checking with the airlines for flight availability and timetables. Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages.

Our services

Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-drive vacation, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

Book with confidence

  • Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
  • Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
  • Enjoy personal service from Iceland-based travel experts.
  • We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.
  • 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
  • As a local agency, we work closely with trusted suppliers.
  • We’re a fully licensed and insured company in Iceland.

Whether you have queries about our tours or want to add activities to existing bookings, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our friendly team for any of your travel questions.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog posts you might like

Top 10 experiences to have in iceland, what to wear in iceland : your guide, driving iceland's ring road: all you need to know, in brief: spending a day in reykjavík.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

here to help

IMAGES

  1. 5 Best Spots to See the Northern Lights in the UK

    northern lights tour from london

  2. Northern Lights UK: Stunning Aurora Borealis appears in skies over

    northern lights tour from london

  3. The 'Northern Lights' Will Appear Over The City Of London

    northern lights tour from london

  4. Spectacular images of the Northern Lights illuminating night sky across

    northern lights tour from london

  5. The 'Northern Lights' Will Appear Over The City Of London

    northern lights tour from london

  6. Northern Lights Over Tower Bridge in London, UK Stock Photo

    northern lights tour from london

COMMENTS

  1. In Search of the Northern Lights

    Feel the spirit of the north. Experience a land where dawn and twilight merge on the edges of the long Arctic night. Sailing far north during Norway's winter, witness snow-covered landscapes dotted with rugged mountains and steep fjords, and seek out the brilliant aurora borealis dancing in the night sky. Delve into Sami legends and World War ...

  2. 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in Europe 2024/2025

    Northern Lights Escape. 4.6 (51 reviews) A great tour that enabled us to see the key sites around the Golden Circle and the Southern coast of Iceland. We were taken to some great spots that weren't even on the official itinerary such as Fjaðrárgljúfur and Gljúfrabúi.

  3. Astronomy Voyage

    Dubbed 'The Northern Lights City', Alta is the turning point of your expedition and one of the northernmost towns in the world. It's charming to stroll around, swathed in Christmas lights and snow. Lying 70º north of the Arctic Circle, Alta sits directly beneath the Auroral Oval, a zone known for consistent Northern Lights activity.

  4. Northern Lights

    Northern Lights. Embark on an illuminating once-in-a-lifetime voyage in search of the elusive aurora borealis, or northern lights. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Arctic landscapes and rich traditions of the indigenous Sami people, who have a deep connection with the land. Departure Date.

  5. 22 best northern lights tours: Iceland, Lapland, Norway and more

    19. Iceland full circle with northern lights, Vulkan Travel. Running from October to March, this seven-night, self-guided drive takes Iceland's phenomenally beautiful ring road (Route 1) in its ...

  6. Northern Lights Tour Packages 2024/2025 : Nordic Visitor

    When you book a northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor, you get: • An authentic travel experience planned by an established and trusted agency. • A dedicated travel consultant to organise your tour. • All relevant bookings for your chosen package. • A detailed online personal itinerary.

  7. 10 Amazing Northern Lights Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    10 Amazing Northern Lights Tours & Trips 2024/2025 - TourRadar. Chase the elusive aurora borealis on one of our stunning northern lights tours! Head to Iceland, Canada or Alaska and witness the nocturnal light spectacle.

  8. How to see the Northern Lights from London for less than £250

    Living in a city as busy as London, it can be hard to pull time away from a hectic schedule to try the things that will one day make the best stories. Top of many people's bucket lists is seeing the Northern Lights and now there's a way Londoners can view this iconic Natural Wonder of the World without even taking a single day of annual leave.

  9. Northern Lights 3 or 4 Nts from London Heathrow

    from £259.00. Our 3 or 4 nights Northern Lights break is a great way to try and see this amazing phenomenon. You'll fly from London Heathrow airport and stay 3 or 4 Nights in the Cabin Hotel or similar in Reykjavik. This popular hotel offers clean and comfortable accommodation, just 15 minutes walk from this fascinating and exciting city ...

  10. England Northern Lights Cruises

    England Northern Lights Cruises Explore England on one of 8 northern lights cruises, departing from Bergen and London. November and March are the most popular months to cruise to England and we have over 32 departures available from two of the world's leading cruise lines specialising in northern lights cruises.

  11. 12 best northern lights cruises for a spectacular adventure

    5. Cunard. Search for the northern lights in style aboard Cunard's stylish Queen Anne, the line's first new ship in 12 years. The 12-night, round-trip Southampton sailing includes several days ...

  12. Northern Lights Holiday Tour Packages 2024 & 2025

    The Northern Lights season starts in September and ends by the end of March. Our Arctic experts have created a selection of amazing luxury northern lights holiday Packages for 2024 & 2025 which enhance your chances of seeing the Northern Lights greatly. Whether this means sleeping in a Glass Igloo which allows you to spectate the northern skies ...

  13. Northern Lights Expedition Cruise from Dover

    15-day Northern Lights expedition cruise from Dover to Norway. Aurora adventures Between October and March is the best time to see the Northern Lights. Spending five nights above the Arctic Circle offers even better odds of seeing one of nature's most dazzling phenomena.

  14. Northern Lights Flight Experience

    Exclusive pre-flight presentations and in-flight commentary by our expert astronomers. Flight excursion in search of the Northern Lights with expert night-sky commentary (approximately 3-3 ½ hours, depending on the departure airport location) Light refreshments on board. All airport taxes. Services of an Omega Breaks tour manager.

  15. 【All-inclusive Tour】3-Day Northern Lights/Northern ...

    Book a 【All-inclusive Tour】3-Day Northern Lights/Northern Landscapes Tour from London: Peak District, Llandudno, Snowdonia, Lake District and Windermere**Meals, Admission and Sightseeing, Tips and Service Charge Included****Breakfasts and Indian dinners**.

  16. Northern Lights Tours & Cruises

    Northern Lights Tours & Cruises Journey through Scandinavia and Iceland in your quest to view the incredible natural phenomena of the Northern Lights moving across the Arctic sky. Choose from 817 coach, cruise, rail and small group tours, compare trips, read past passenger reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on every departure.

  17. The 18 Best Places to See the Northern Lights

    The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø ...

  18. Iceland Tours from London : Holiday Packages : Nordic Visitor

    ICELAND TOURS FROM LONDON. Just 3 hours from London, Reykjavik is the perfect getaway for a long weekend or starting point for an adventure around Iceland's scenic Ring Road. Enjoy a stress-free holiday in Iceland that includes well-reviewed hotels, day tours, airport transfers and more — all arranged by the local travel experts at Nordic ...

  19. The Northern Lights and Lapland Tour

    From here, we explore the spellbinding Lofoten Isles, before entering Sweden on the Ofoten Railway. A wonderland of wintry experiences awaits as we uncover the culture of the Sámi people, visit the iconic Ice Hotel and embark on a husky-hauled sleigh ride. View Dates & Pricing. Call to book 01904 521 936.

  20. London, Iceland & Northern Lights

    Immerse yourself in the wonders of London at leisure. Discover the magic of beautiful Iceland. Seek out the famed Northern Lights - an amazing natural phenomenon. Discover the highlights of Reykjavik on a guided tour. Visit amazing Borgarfjörður, known as the Saga Valley. Take the chance to climb the incredible Grábrók Volcano crater.

  21. From Reykjavik: The Original 3.5 Hour Northern Lights Tour

    Admire nature's own spectacular lightshow - the magnificent Northern Lights. Drive into Iceland's countryside, far away from the city lights of Reykjavik. Watch as the Lights dance across the sky in dramatic shapes, colors, patterns, and sizes. Full description. Join this mysterious trip on a dark winter's night to search for the ...