Best Accommodations in Tromsø for Sleeping Under the Northern Lights
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore not only the best accommodations for a northern lights stay but also why Tromsø is such a prime destination for aurora hunters. You’ll find everything from traditional Sami-style lodgings to modern glass-roofed cabins, each offering a unique vantage point for enjoying the celestial show.
1. Tromsø Aurora Lodge & Camping
One of the most authentic northern lights experiences you can have in Tromsø is at Tromsø Aurora Lodge & Camping. Here, guests can stay in traditional Sami lavvos, which are tent-like structures used by the indigenous Sami people of Northern Scandinavia.
Key Features:
- Sami Lavvos: These cone-shaped tents offer a cozy, rustic experience, complete with wood-burning stoves to keep you warm during the Arctic night. The interior is simple but comfortable, allowing you to experience the Sami lifestyle while you wait for the aurora to appear.
- Aurora Viewing: The campsite is located far from the city’s light pollution, offering excellent chances to see the northern lights right from the doorstep of your lavvo. The lodge also organizes guided aurora tours, which take guests to some of the region’s best northern lights spots.
- Communal Facilities: While the lavvos themselves are traditional, the site provides modern amenities, including showers, a shared kitchen, and a sauna to relax in after a night spent watching the skies.
Cost and Availability:
Prices for a stay at Tromsø Aurora Lodge & Camping typically range from €100-€150 per night for two people. The lavvos are available from mid-September to late March, aligning with the peak northern lights season. Most guests opt for a stay of one to three nights, allowing enough time to increase their chances of catching the aurora.
2. Melishome Aurora Observatory
For travelers who want a more luxurious experience, the Melishome Aurora Observatory is an excellent choice. Located on a hill overlooking Tromsø, this accommodation offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and fjords, making it one of the best places for northern lights viewing.
Key Features:
- Rooms with Skylights and Large Windows: The observatory’s rooms are designed to maximize your northern lights experience, featuring skylights and large windows so you can see the aurora without leaving the warmth of your room. This is perfect for travelers who want to experience the magic of the northern lights without venturing into the cold Arctic night.
- Hot Tub for Aurora Watching: The outdoor hot tub is a favorite among guests, offering the ultimate luxury of soaking in warm waters while the aurora dances overhead. Many guests find this to be one of the most magical and relaxing ways to watch the northern lights.
- Guided Tours and Lectures: Melishome Aurora Observatory goes beyond just offering a place to stay. The observatory also hosts lectures and guided tours, giving guests a deeper understanding of the science behind the aurora borealis and tips on how to best photograph the lights.
Cost and Availability:
A stay at Melishome Aurora Observatory tends to be on the higher end, with prices ranging from €150-€300 per night depending on the season. The observatory is open year-round, though the best time to see the northern lights is from October through March.
Tromsø offers a wide range of accommodations tailored to northern lights enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of a Sami lavvo, the luxury of a glass igloo, or the thrill of a wilderness adventure, there’s something for everyone. No matter where you choose to stay, spending a night beneath the aurora in Tromsø will be an unforgettable experience. Make sure to book early, as northern lights accommodations fill up quickly, especially during the peak season!