Best northern lights hotels in Iceland
Where to base yourself for dark skies, aurora alerts and a warm bed after a night of hunting.
Why your hotel location matters
The northern lights are visible across Iceland, but cloud cover and light pollution are the biggest obstacles. Staying in a rural area with little artificial light gives you a much better chance of seeing an active display from the hotel grounds than staying in central Reykjavik.
Top regions for aurora accommodation
- Mývatn: dark lakeside settings and frequent clear skies in the north.
- Húsavík: quiet coastal village with minimal light pollution.
- Vík: black-sand beaches and easy access to dark countryside on the south coast.
- Westfjords: some of the darkest skies in the country, ideal for serious aurora watchers.
What to look for in a northern lights hotel
Choose properties that offer aurora wake-up calls, outdoor hot tubs or geothermal pools, and easy parking for late-night drives. A hotel with large windows facing north can let you watch the sky without leaving your room.
When to go
The aurora season runs from late September to early April. February and March often combine long nights with improving weather. Book accommodation early for the Christmas and New Year period, when rural rooms sell out quickly.