Northern Lights in Sweden

Sweden is a popular destination for travelers looking to see the Northern Lights. The northernmost part of the country, known as Swedish Lapland, sits at a high latitude that makes it a reliable area for viewing when solar activity occurs.

Where to Go

Abisko is one of the most recognized locations in the country for aurora viewing. Situated in a national park near the Norwegian border, the area is known for a local microclimate that often produces clearer skies than the surrounding regions.

Kiruna is the northernmost city in Sweden and serves as the primary hub for visitors. It has an airport and regular train connections. While the city itself has light pollution, it is a very convenient base for heading out into the darker surrounding wilderness.

If you prefer a coastal environment, Luleå offers a different setting. The frozen Luleå archipelago provides wide, open views of the night sky over the sea ice, though it is slightly further south than Kiruna.

Local Attractions

Northern Sweden has plenty of activities to fill the daytime hours. The village of Jukkasjärvi, just a short drive from Kiruna, is home to the original Icehotel, which is rebuilt every winter using ice harvested from the Torne River.

The region is also part of the traditional homeland of the indigenous Sámi people. Towns like Jokkmokk serve as centers for Sámi culture, where visitors can learn about traditional reindeer herding. Standard winter activities, such as dog sledding tours and snowmobile excursions, are widely available across the northern half of the country.

Many travelers exploring the Nordic region also choose to combine their time in Sweden with a trip across the border to neighboring Finland.