Best Places to See Northern Lights in Reykjavik

1. Grótta Lighthouse ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Located on Seltjarnarnes peninsula, this spot offers dark skies just 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavik. The lighthouse provides a stunning foreground for aurora photography. Accessible at low tide via a causeway, with minimal light pollution making it ideal for both beginners and experienced photographers.

• Distance from City: 8 km (15 min drive from downtown)
• Light Pollution: Low (Bortle 4)
• Accessibility: Easy (tide-dependent, check tide tables)
• Best For: Quick trips, beginners, lighthouse photography
• Parking: Free parking available at peninsula entrance
• Facilities: No facilities, bring warm clothing
• Cost: Free
• Best Time: 2 hours before/after low tide

2. Þingvellir National Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

UNESCO World Heritage Site offering exceptional dark skies and dramatic geological features. The rift valley between tectonic plates creates unique photography opportunities. One of the darkest locations near Reykjavik with virtually no light pollution.

• Distance from City: 45 km (45 min drive)
• Light Pollution: Minimal (Bortle 2-3)
• Accessibility: Easy road access, multiple viewpoints
• Best For: Landscape photography, serious photographers
• Parking: Multiple parking areas (500 ISK fee)
• Facilities: Visitor center, restrooms (seasonal)
• Cost: 500 ISK parking fee
• Best Time: After 10 PM, avoid full moon nights

3. Kleifarvatn Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, this lake offers dark skies and water reflections for stunning aurora photography. The geothermal area nearby adds steam and otherworldly elements to photos. Less crowded than Þingvellir.

• Distance from City: 35 km (35 min drive)
• Light Pollution: Low (Bortle 3)
• Accessibility: Easy, right off Route 42
• Best For: Reflection photography, geothermal landscapes
• Parking: Free roadside parking
• Facilities: None, completely remote
• Cost: Free
• Best Time: Clear nights, calm winds for reflections

4. Álftanes Peninsula ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Quiet coastal area just 20 minutes from downtown, offering open ocean views and low light pollution. The rocky shoreline provides interesting foreground elements. Popular among local photographers for its convenience and reliability.

• Distance from City: 12 km (20 min drive)
• Light Pollution: Moderate-Low (Bortle 4)
• Accessibility: Very easy, paved roads
• Best For: Ocean views, last-minute trips
• Parking: Free street parking
• Facilities: Residential area nearby
• Cost: Free
• Best Time: Any clear night, less tide-dependent

5. Hvalfjörður Fjord ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Scenic fjord with mountain reflections and complete darkness. The 47km fjord offers multiple viewing spots along its length. Excellent for those wanting to escape all city lights while staying accessible by road.

• Distance from City: 50 km (50 min drive)
• Light Pollution: Minimal (Bortle 2)
• Accessibility: Easy along Route 47
• Best For: Mountain reflections, serious aurora hunters
• Parking: Multiple pullouts along the fjord
• Facilities: Small villages with basic services
• Cost: Free
• Best Time: Strong aurora nights (KP 3+)

6. Perlan Observation Deck ⭐⭐⭐

For those staying in the city, Perlan's observation deck offers 360-degree views above Reykjavik's light pollution. While not as dark as remote locations, it's convenient for hotel guests and provides good visibility during strong aurora displays (KP 4+).

• Distance from City: 2 km (5 min drive from downtown)
• Light Pollution: Moderate (Bortle 5-6)
• Accessibility: Very easy, elevator access
• Best For: Hotel guests, strong aurora nights only
• Parking: Free parking at Perlan
• Facilities: Museum, cafe, restrooms
• Cost: Free (observation deck), museum admission separate
• Best Time: Only during strong geomagnetic storms

Check Current Forecast

Use our Reykjavik aurora forecast to see real-time KP index and visibility probability before heading out. Higher KP values increase your chances at all locations.

Best Viewing Times

Aurora activity peaks between 10 PM and 2 AM. Check the KP index trends to see if activity is rising or falling throughout the night.

Weather Conditions

Clear skies are essential. Even strong auroras are invisible through clouds. Check local weather forecasts and consider multiple backup locations.