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Traveloka Team

16 Jan 2023 - 4 min read

Best Time and Places to See The Northern Lights in Sweden 2023

Every adventurer should see the Northern Lights in Sweden. The sky will be illuminated by vibrant streaks of pink, green, and purple, creating a sight you won't soon forget.

Beginning in early September, the Aurora Borealis may be seen in and near the northern Swedish city of Kiruna. Roughly a quarter of Sweden is able to see the Northern Lights by the time the weather has set in. Even as late as the end of March or the beginning of April, you may still get a glimpse of these undulating rainbows.

Fans of the Northern Lights in Sweden look forward to the long winter evenings. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Sweden occurs between the hours of 6:00 pm and 2:00 am on a clear night. However, the best show occurs between 10:00 and 11:00 p.m.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Sweden

Where to See Northern Lights in Sweden

Source: Freepik @wirestock

As a general rule, the northern lights can only be seen in the far north of Sweden. The closer you are to the so-called aurora zone, the greater your chances are of seeing something spectacular in the sky.

As for the best place in Sweden to see the northern lights, that would be the large swath of land stretching from Jokkmokk to the northern part of Norway. Those are the places where you can expect to see frequent displays all through the winter.

Here’s some fantastic news: a significant portion of northern Sweden is within the optimal location for seeing the northern lights. These are the towns where you have the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

1. Abisko

Source: Unsplash @dylanshaw

This town is located just an hour's drive from the northernmost town in Sweden. Thus, the little town of Abisko has become a popular destination for those seeking to see the Northern Lights. It's hard to imagine a better location in all of Sweden from which to see the Northern Lights.

Abisko is protected from precipitation by the surrounding mountain range. Thus, it's far more likely that we'll get clear evenings and good displays. Furthermore, there is very little light pollution since it is 90 kilometers from the closest city. Most importantly, it is surrounded by a wildlife reserve.

Seeing the lights has become big business, and the city's biggest hostel is now on the itinerary of every visiting backpacker. Therefore, it's perfect for solo travelers, groups, and families thanks to its individual rooms.

2. Luleå

Luleå

Source: Freepik @r3dmax

The vibrant university town of Luleå is located on the Gulf of Bothnia, less than 100 kilometers from the Arctic Circle. With its waterfront position, the Luleå archipelago is readily accessible from October through March, when the Northern Lights may be seen at their best.

Wooden huts in the woods near the lake at a reasonable price are available at Luleå. Certainly, it makes such a nice option for seeing the lights.

3. Riksgränsen

Riksgränsen

Source: Freepik @r3dmax

Above the Arctic Circle, close to the Norwegian border, is Sweden's northernmost ski resort. Not only is it one of Sweden's best ski resorts for downhill and off-piste runs, but its proximity to lakes, mountains, and vast countryside also makes it a solid bet for spotting the northern lights in winter.

The Katterjokk Turiststation, about three kilometers from the heart of Riksgränsen, is conveniently located next to the Katterjkkliften ski lift. You can also take a Northern Lights tour from this location.

4. Kiruna

Source: ICEHOTEL

Kiruna, Sweden's northernmost town, is located above the Arctic Circle. It offers excellent opportunities to watch the aurora borealis. Dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing are just a few of the winter sports that you can try in this location.

Just outside of the city, the Aurora Dome offers two plush dome tents with see-through tops, ideal for stargazing. If you’re not looking to splurge on accommodation, there are hotels offering trendy budget alternatives not far from the bus station.

Kiruna is a huge industrial town. So if you want to avoid the city's light pollution, you'll need to go quite a ways from the center of town. For an option, visit Jukkasjärvi, a Sami settlement barely twenty minutes' drive to the east. Certainly, it is distant enough from Kiruna's lights to provide spectacular vistas.

You can also stay at Sweden’s original ice hotel in Jukkasjärvi. The ICEHOTEL, which is only open in the winter, has rooms with decorative furnishings and beds made of ice.

Tips to Catch the Northern Lights in Sweden 2023

Abisko

Source: Freepik @r3dmax

Seeing the lights relies on a variety of factors, such as the strength of the sun and the weather at the time. If you must choose, the two seasons immediately before and after winter in Sweden provide the highest chances of witnessing the northern lights. Moreover, you may have a nice balance of daytime and nighttime during these shoulder seasons, which are from late September until early November and from March to April.

Check out this table to find out the best chance to see the Northern Lights in Sweden 2023!

Months

Chance

January - February

High chance

March - April

Moderate chance

May - August

Low chance

September - October

Moderate chance

November - December

High chance

Bottom Line

The whole region of Swedish Lapland is ideal for seeing the Northern Lights, especially between the months of September and March. Thus, if you happen to be in this gorgeous region at that time of year, we highly recommend taking a walk in the woods and looking up to see a spectacular display of Mother Nature's artistry.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Sweden is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, don’t forget to bring your tripod and camera to make it last. Furthermore, download Traveloka, your lifestyle super app to ease your stay in Sweden!

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