Can You See the Northern Lights in Reykjavík?

You might ask: Can you see the northern lights from Reykjavík, Iceland? The truth is that spotting them here isn’t always easy, but it is possible and that’s part of the thrill. Many travelers hope to witness the northern lights in Iceland, and Reykjavík offers just the right opportunity.

Learn the best times, viewing spots, and even hotels that make it easier to catch the lights during your stay.

What causes aurora borealis and how to Catch the them in Reykjavík

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, appear when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth’s atmosphere. Because Iceland lies near the Arctic Circle, the chance of seeing the northern lights in Iceland is high.

But what about Reykjavík itself? The short answer is yes, but with some caveats:

Light pollution: City lights often dim weaker auroras. Weather: Cloud cover can completely block the sky. Solar activity: Displays depend on the strength of the solar wind.

To boost your odds, check the aurora forecast, which uses the KP index (scale from 0–9) to measure geomagnetic activity. A reading of 3 or higher typically indicates promising conditions. Heading to higher ground or just outside the city also helps.

The good news? 2025 and 2026 fall during the solar maximum, when the sun is most active. So, expect brighter and more frequent displays.

7 Best Spots to Watch the Northern Lights Within Reykjavík

If you’re hunting for the northern lights in Iceland, you don’t always need to drive far. While darker skies outside the city are best, Reykjavík has several good vantage points.

1. Öskjuhlíð Hill

Rising 61 m (200 ft) above the city, Öskjuhlíð Hill offers a slight escape from light pollution. At the top sits Perlan, a glass-domed landmark featuring an observation deck with sweeping views of the city and mountains. Just a 10-minute drive from downtown, it’s one of the most accessible northern lights spots.

No sightings? Head inside Perlan for the Áróra 8K planetarium show to get a feel for what the northern lights look like.

2. The Sun Voyager

Fancy an evening walk along the harborfront? The Sun Voyager (Sólfar) is a steel boat sculpture, only a 10-minute stroll from downtown. With fewer light pollutants, it’s an ideal place to photograph the Northern Lights, with Mt. Esja in the background.

3. Grandi District

For auroras with a cultural twist, try the Grandi District, a 10–15 minute walk from downtown. Once an old harbor, it’s now a lively neighborhood with wide harbor views and less light pollution. On clear nights, the aurora can glow above Mt. Esja.

Pro-tip: Stop by Aurora Reykjavík, the Northern Lights Center, for immersive exhibits.

4. Elliðaárdalur Valley

Wondering, “Can you see the northern lights from Reykjavík, Iceland?” In Elliðaárdalur Valley, you can — if solar activity is strong. This hidden gem, situated along the Elliðaá River, boasts open skies and reduced light pollution. Plus, it’s just a 15-minute drive or bus ride from the city center.

5. Reynisvatn

Approximately 15 minutes from central Reykjavík, Reynisvatn is a tranquil lake located near the Grafarholt neighborhood. Locals know it as a peaceful fishing spot by day. But by night, its darker skies make it a calm and scenic place to watch for auroras.

6. Klambratún Park

Klambratún Park is one of Reykjavík’s nature spots, featuring open fields that offer clearer skies than its surrounding streets. It’s one of the few central areas where you can step outside and try your luck without leaving downtown.

7. Hljómskálagarður Park

Another central option, Hljómskálagarðurinn, sits by Tjörnin Pond. Its open lawns give decent sky views, and in winter, the frozen pond serves as an ice rink for locals. Just a 10-minute walk from City Hall, it’s an easy stop for a quick aurora check.

Bonus: Grótta Nature Reserve

For darker skies just outside the city, head to Grótta Nature Reserve on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. With its historic lighthouse and open ocean views, it’s one of the best near-city spots for northern lights hunting. You can reach it by car, bus, or on foot along the scenic coastline. Add a detour to Grótta Beach for a truly atmospheric night.

Best Time To See the Northern Lights in Reykjavík

The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is from mid-September to early April. That’s when nights are long and the skies are dark. Each season brings different conditions for aurora hunters:

Reykjavík in Fall (September–November): Crisp nights and no heavy snow yet. Storms are common in October and November. Reykjavík in Winter (December–February): Peak season with the best odds, but very short days and frequent storms. Book tours and hotels early. Reykjavík in Spring (March–May): Longer days and steadier weather make travel easier, with nights still dark enough for auroras.

In Reykjavík, auroras often peak between 10:00 pm and 2:00 am. However, they can appear at any time during dark hours.

Where to Stay in Reykjavík for Northern Lights?

If you’d like to stay prepared, Center Hotels offers central Reykjavík locations with perks for aurora seekers. All provide northern lights wake-up calls (upon request) and convenient access to bus stops for northern lights tours in Iceland.

Center Hotels Laugarvegur – Rooms with balconies let you step outside and check the skies without leaving your accommodation. Center Hotels Plaza – Features an observation deck that allows guests to scan the skies from above street level. Center Hotels Arnarhvoll – Home to the Ský Bar, one of the best spots in Reykjavík for panoramic views of the city and harbor.

So, Can You See the Northern Lights from Reykjavík, Iceland?

Yes, you can see the northern lights from Reykjavík when visiting Iceland, but patience and a little luck are key. Light pollution and weather make them unpredictable. Yet there are plenty of spots in and around the city where the aurora can appear.

With forecasts, wake-up calls at hotels, and tours departing downtown, Reykjavík offers both convenience and opportunity to see the aurora. For the very best views, heading into the darker countryside helps. But catching the northern lights dancing above the city skyline is equally unforgettable.

FAQs About Northern Lights in Reykjavík, Iceland

Can you see aurora borealis in Reykjavik?

It is possible to see them, but city lights often make them faint. Darker city spots, such as Öskjuhlíð Hill or Grótta, offer better chances.

What is the best month to see the northern lights in Reykjavík?

From mid-September to early April, with peak chances in December–February, when nights are longest and darkest.

How far out of Reykjavík to see the northern lights?

City spots work. But a 30-60 minute drive to places like Þingvellir (part of the Golden Circle) or Hvalfjörður offers clearer skies.

Can you see the northern lights in Reykjavík without a tour?

Yes, try darker areas like Öskjuhlíð Hill, Reynisvatn, or Grótta Nature Reserve.

What happens if I don’t see the northern lights during a tour in Reykjavík?

Most operators let you rebook another night for free, giving you another shot at catching the aurora.

Can I see the aurora borealis tonight?

Possibly - maybe. Have a look at the aurora forecast, to see if the odds are in your favour!