There’s nothing quite like standing under a wide Arctic sky as ribbons of green and purple dance overhead. The Nordic region—Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Iceland—is one of the best places on earth to experience the Northern Lights, along with cozy cities, dramatic coastlines and calm, minimalist design that makes everything feel a little more peaceful.
For aurora hunters, key spots include Northern Norway (Tromsø, the Lofoten Islands), Swedish and Finnish Lapland and Iceland, especially from roughly late September through March when the nights are long and dark. On a clear night away from light pollution, you can pair your Northern Lights viewing with dog sledding, reindeer or husky safaris, snowshoeing, ice fishing or simply soaking in a steaming outdoor hot tub while the sky puts on a show.
But there’s much more to the Nordics than the aurora. In Norway, dramatic fjords, coastal cruises and small fishing villages offer incredible scenery year-round. Iceland brings waterfalls, hot springs, black-sand beaches and otherworldly landscapes that feel straight out of a fantasy novel. Sweden, Finland and Denmark blend charming historic centers with cutting-edge design, excellent food and that cozy “hygge” vibe—perfect for slower-paced days in cafés, museums and waterfront walks.
The beauty of this region is how customizable it is:
- Quick long-weekend in Iceland with a Northern Lights hunt and Blue Lagoon soak
- Multi-stop Nordic itinerary combining cities + fjords + Lapland
- A winter wonderland trip with glass igloos, saunas and sleigh rides
As a FORA travel advisor, I help you choose the right timing, locations and style of trip—plus arrange trusted local guides and experiences—so you’re not just rolling the dice on the weather and hoping for the best.
👉 Ready to start dreaming (and planning) your Nordic adventure?
Explore my insider tips and planning ideas here:
Insider’s Guide to the Nordic Region – with Heidi Dent
When you’re ready to trade screen savers for real Arctic skies, I’ll help design a trip that fits your comfort level, pace and sense of adventure.