Guide · When to go

When and where to see the northern lights?

The best season, top countries and access from Istanbul.

HomeGuideWhen and where to see the northern lights?

Short answer

The northern lights (aurora) are usually visible from September to March/April, on dark, clear nights near the Arctic Circle. The most popular spots are Norway, Iceland, Finland and Sweden. Sightings are never guaranteed; staying several nights improves the odds. You can plan the flight package with monthly payments.

Where to see them

  • Norway: Tromso, one of the best-known aurora bases.
  • Iceland: Reykjavik and dark areas nearby.
  • Finland: Rovaniemi and the wider Lapland region.
  • Sweden: around Kiruna and Abisko.

Getting there from Türkiye

There may be seasonal direct flights from Istanbul to Iceland (Reykjavik, KEF). Tromso is usually reached via Oslo and Rovaniemi via Helsinki. These are Schengen countries, so a valid Schengen visa is required.

Improving your chances

Get away from city lights, stay several nights, and follow cloud and aurora forecasts. The darkest months (December to February) offer a longer viewing window. Aurora is a natural phenomenon; no tour can promise 100 percent.

Summary

In short: the best time is the dark winter months (September to March), and the best places are Norway, Iceland, Finland and Sweden. Patience and a few flexible nights raise the odds.

Frequently asked questions

In which months are the northern lights visible?

Generally between September and March-April, on dark, clear nights. The longest viewing window is December to February.

Are sightings guaranteed?

No. Aurora is a natural phenomenon and depends on the weather; staying several nights and going to dark areas improves the odds.

Can I plan the flight package with monthly payments?

Yes. On Suso you pick the flight package and split the amount into monthly payments over 3 to 24 months; no card limit is needed.

See northern lights routes

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