Best Place to See Northern Lights in Reykjavik

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a stunning destination in its own right, but what really sets it apart is the opportunity to witness one of nature's most mesmerizing displays: the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. 

This natural phenomenon attracts visitors from around the world, and Reykjavik is a prime location for catching this awe-inspiring show. In this post, we’ll explore the best places to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik and what you can do to maximize your chances of witnessing this otherworldly spectacle.

Understanding the Northern Lights

Before diving into the best locations, it’s essential to understand the Northern Lights and how they work. The Aurora Borealis occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth’s magnetic field, creating colorful displays of light in the night sky. These displays are usually green, but they can also be pink, purple, or red, depending on the type of gases involved.

The Northern Lights are most visible in areas with clear, dark skies, which is why Reykjavik, with its latitude and relatively low light pollution, is one of the best urban areas for viewing them. However, like any natural phenomenon, they are unpredictable, so having a plan and knowing the best spots is crucial for success.

Also Check, Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavík

When to See the Northern Lights in Reykjavik

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik is from late September to mid-April when the nights are longest. The phenomenon is most active around the equinoxes (late September and late March), but any clear night during this period offers a chance to see the lights.

Keep in mind that clear skies are key—cloud cover can block your view entirely. Checking the weather forecast and using apps that predict auroral activity (like the Aurora Forecast app) can help you determine the best times to head out.

Now, let's dive into some of the top places in and around Reykjavik to see the Northern Lights.

1. Grótta Lighthouse

Located on the tip of the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, just a short drive from Reykjavik city center, Grótta Lighthouse is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights near Reykjavik. The lighthouse sits in a peaceful, secluded area with minimal light pollution, offering an uninterrupted view of the sky.

You can reach the lighthouse by car or even walk there if you’re staying in the nearby area. The surrounding coastline also adds to the experience, with the sound of waves and the vastness of the ocean amplifying the magical atmosphere.

Because it’s only about a 10-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik, Grótta Lighthouse is convenient for both locals and tourists. On clear nights with high aurora activity, this spot becomes a hub for Northern Lights seekers, so it's wise to arrive early for the best spot.

2. Öskjuhlíð Hill and Perlan

Öskjuhlíð Hill, home to the iconic Perlan museum, is another excellent location for viewing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik. The elevated position of the hill offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding night sky, making it a favorite among photographers and locals.

While Perlan itself is a modern building with a glass dome offering great views of the city, you’ll want to step outside to get away from the artificial lights. The nearby forested area on Öskjuhlíð Hill provides a darker, quieter setting for Northern Lights watching.

One advantage of this spot is its proximity to Reykjavik’s city center, allowing visitors to enjoy a quick Northern Lights viewing session before heading back into town for dinner or drinks. For those interested in a more immersive experience, Perlan also has exhibits about Iceland's natural wonders, including the Aurora Borealis.

3. Reykjavik Old Harbor

For those who prefer not to venture too far from the city center, Reykjavik’s Old Harbor offers a surprisingly good vantage point for viewing the Northern Lights. While the harbor area has more light pollution than the outskirts of the city, it still provides a nice balance between convenience and visibility.

The waterfront setting, with boats bobbing in the harbor and the reflections of city lights on the water, can make for a picturesque Northern Lights experience. Plus, after watching the lights, you can easily explore the nearby restaurants and bars that line the harbor.

Although it’s not as dark as some of the other locations mentioned, on nights with strong auroral activity, the Northern Lights can be seen clearly from the harbor.

4. Elliðaárdalur Valley

Elliðaárdalur Valley, a large nature reserve within Reykjavik, offers a serene environment for viewing the Northern Lights. This valley is popular with locals for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and fishing, but it’s also an excellent place to escape the city lights at night.

The valley’s natural features, including rivers, waterfalls, and small woodlands, provide a scenic backdrop to your Northern Lights viewing experience. The key advantage here is the darkness—Elliðaárdalur is far enough from Reykjavik’s main lights to give you a better view of the sky, yet it’s still within city limits, making it accessible.

There are multiple walking paths and trails throughout the valley, so it’s easy to find a quiet spot to set up your camera or simply enjoy the aurora without interruption.

5. Heiðmörk Nature Reserve

For those who are willing to venture a little farther from the city center, Heiðmörk Nature Reserve is one of the darkest and most peaceful places to view the Northern Lights near Reykjavik. Located about 15 kilometers from the city, this expansive park offers vast, open skies free from light pollution.

Heiðmörk is a favorite among locals looking for a quiet place to connect with nature. During the day, the park is ideal for hiking and bird-watching, while at night, it transforms into a perfect Northern Lights viewing spot.

Because of its distance from the city, it’s best to visit Heiðmörk by car. Pack some warm clothing and perhaps a thermos of hot chocolate, as temperatures can drop significantly at night. If you’re seeking solitude and an uninterrupted view of the aurora, Heiðmörk is one of your best bets.

6. Esja Mountain

Esja Mountain, just outside of Reykjavik, offers an adventurous Northern Lights viewing experience for those who don’t mind a bit of hiking. The mountain provides sweeping views of the capital and the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal location to watch the aurora in a more remote setting.

While hiking to the summit is best left for daytime due to safety concerns, there are lower viewpoints along the hiking trails where you can stop and enjoy the Northern Lights at night. If you're up for it, an evening hike with the reward of seeing the Northern Lights from an elevated perspective can be an unforgettable experience.

Esja is about a 20-minute drive from Reykjavik, so it’s accessible for most visitors. Remember to bring a flashlight and appropriate gear if you plan to hike at night.

7. Viðey Island

Another unique option for Northern Lights viewing is Viðey Island, located just off the coast of Reykjavik. The island is home to the Imagine Peace Tower, a tribute to John Lennon, and offers panoramic views of Reykjavik and the surrounding ocean.

During the Northern Lights season, ferries run to Viðey Island in the evening, giving you the chance to escape the city lights for a more secluded viewing experience. With minimal artificial light on the island, the dark skies make for excellent Northern Lights viewing opportunities.

Because of its isolation and the ferry schedule, this spot requires a bit more planning. However, if you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Viðey Island is worth considering.

8. Sun Voyager and Harpa Concert Hall

For those who want a more artistic setting for their Northern Lights viewing, the Sun Voyager sculpture and the Harpa Concert Hall provide a stunning foreground to the aurora. Located along the Reykjavik waterfront, these landmarks are popular with photographers, and for a good reason.

The Sun Voyager, a steel sculpture resembling a Viking ship, faces out towards the sea, creating a dramatic contrast against the Northern Lights. Just down the road, Harpa Concert Hall, with its glass façade, offers reflections of the lights that can add a surreal touch to your photos.

While these locations are closer to the city lights, the artistic scenery and accessibility make them great spots for casual Northern Lights watchers who want to combine sightseeing with aurora viewing.

9. Laugardalur Park

Laugardalur Park is a family-friendly option for Northern Lights viewing in Reykjavik. Known for its geothermal pools, botanical gardens, and sports facilities, this park offers a blend of activities during the day and peaceful spots for aurora watching at night.

While the park is closer to the center of Reykjavik than some of the other locations mentioned, it still provides a good amount of darkness for Northern Lights viewing, especially if you head towards the less developed areas of the park.

After enjoying a dip in the thermal pools, you can settle into a quiet corner of the park to gaze at the sky. Laugardalur is a great option if you’re looking for a relaxing evening outdoors with a chance to see the Northern Lights.

10. Take a Northern Lights Boat Tour

For those who want a truly immersive experience, consider booking a Northern Lights boat tour from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor. These tours take you out into Faxaflói Bay, away from the city lights, offering some of the darkest skies available near Reykjavik.

Boat tours are an excellent option for maximizing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The experienced guides on these tours keep an eye on the aurora forecast and adjust the tour times to give you the best possible viewing conditions.

Many boat tours also offer warm clothing, hot drinks, and even indoor seating so you can enjoy the Northern Lights in comfort. If you want a unique and memorable experience, a Northern Lights boat tour is an excellent choice.

Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik

1. Check the Aurora Forecast: Apps and websites like the Aurora Forecast and the Icelandic Meteorological Office provide real-time information about aurora activity and cloud cover.
2. Dress Warmly: Icelandic nights can be freezing, especially when you’re standing outside for long periods. Layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots are essential.
3. Be Patient: The Northern Lights are unpredictable, and it can take hours before they appear. Find a spot, get comfortable, and wait for nature to put on its show.
4. Avoid Light Pollution: Even within Reykjavik, it’s important to find spots away from bright streetlights. The darker the area, the better your chances of seeing the lights.
5. Bring a Camera: The Northern Lights are stunning in person, but they can be tricky to capture on camera. A DSLR camera with manual settings will give you the best results, and don’t forget a tripod for stability.

Final Thoughts on Aurora Hunting in Reykjavik

Reykjavik offers an array of fantastic locations for viewing the Northern Lights, from urban landmarks like the Sun Voyager to remote natural reserves like Heiðmörk. Whether you prefer the convenience of staying close to the city or the adventure of heading into the wilderness, there’s a spot for every type of traveler.

By visiting these locations and following the tips above, you’ll maximize your chances of witnessing the magical dance of the aurora borealis in the Icelandic sky.