The Midnight Sun is a natural phenomenon that occurs north of the Arctic Circle at 66º33′N during the summer months: beyond this latitude, the sun never completely sets below the horizon. Why is that? As the Earth rotates on a tilted axis relative to the sun, the North Pole is angled towards the sun during summer. This also means the further north you go, the higher in the sky the sun is at night. As a sizable portion of its territory located above the Arctic Circle, Norway is well known as the Land of the Midnight Sun. The Midnight Sun is the same sun we see during the day! However, it’s something you must see for yourself. The reddish yellow light is something that will mesmerize you, like a never-ending sunset…
Where can I see the Midnight Sun?
Northern Norway is probably the best place to experience the Midnight Sun. Tromsø, Senja, the Lyngenfjord region and the Lofoten islands are a must-see during the Arctic summer. Imagine it’s 11pm and you’re sailing through the fjords of Norway, the golden light caresses your face while you enjoy the beautiful scenery passing before your eyes. For the more adventurous ones, the Midnight Sun is also best experienced from the top of a mountain. You can go to Sommarøy, the “summer island” and the world’s first time-free zone (people officially asked the government to abolish civil time, understandable when the Midnight Sun gives you the impression of endless days!). Around Tromsø, an all-time favourite place to enjoy the Midnight Sun is Ersfjord and its dramatic scenery.
When can I see the Midnight Sun in Norway?
The Arctic is truly special during the Midnight Sun season, which basically runs from mid-May to late July. Depending on where you find yourself above the Arctic Circle, the Midnight Sun period might differ: the further north you go, the longer it lasts! That’s why Svalbard, halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, has the longest period of Midnight Sun: 4 months! Convinced yet? So come and explore the Land of the Midnight Sun and see the best of the Arctic summer in a different light!
If you’re visiting Tromsø in September, October or early November, you might think it’s too early for dog sledding. After all, the Arctic winter hasn’t fully arrived yet. Fortunately, that’s not the case. Autumn dog sledding with carts (also called dog carting or wheeled dog sledding) lets you experience the excitement of being pulled by […]
Bus vs flight the smartest way to travel between Tromsø and Rovaniemi
Are you planning a winter journey between Tromsø in Northern Norway and Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland this winter? Although flying may initially appear to be the fastest option, the total travel experience involves much more than the time spent in the air. Traveling by bus between Tromsø and Rovaniemi can be simpler, more scenic and […]
How to travel between Rovaniemi and Tromsø in winter 2026/2027?
Planning a winter trip across the Arctic and wondering how to travel between Rovaniemi and Tromsø? During the winter season 2026/2027, travelers can choose between two bus routes connecting Northern Norway and Finnish Lapland: the Arctic Route daytime bus and the Aurora Express Nightliner. Both routes connect two of the most popular winter destinations in […]
How to get from Tromsø Airport to the city center with luggage
Landing in Tromsø is exciting, but after a long journey, one question often comes first: how do you get from Tromsø Airport to the city centre with luggage? The easiest option for many visitors is the Airport Express bus operated by Best Arctic. The service is designed for travellers arriving in Tromsø and offers a […]
Dog Sledding with Carts vs snow sledding: What’s the difference?
Dog sledding is one of the most popular activities in the Arctic and a must-do for many travelers visiting Tromsø. However, depending on when you travel and the snow conditions you can encounter two different options: dog sledding with carts during autumn (from mid-September and throughout November) and traditional dog sledding on snow during winter […]
If you are staying in Tromsø during summer, you may be wondering whether Sommarøy is worth visiting for just one day. The answer is yes. Sommarøy is one of the best day trips you can take from Tromsø during the summer season. With white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, coastal landscapes and a calm atmosphere, Sommarøy offers […]