Two of the questions we get most frequently are whether it's possible to see the Aurora in Reykjavík, and where to find the best spots for Aurora viewing in the metropolitan region. The first question we can answer with a very simple and definitive Yes! Reykjavík is the undisputed Northern Lights Capital of the World.
Read more: Photos of yesterday's Aurora over downtown proves Reykjavík is the Northern Lights capital
If the skies are clear and the Aurora is active you can see the Northern Lights pretty much anywhere in Iceland, even in downtown Reykjavík. The best Aurora spots inside the city tend to be along the coast, where you have a broad horizon without streetlights or other sources of bright light polluting the sky. Taking a stroll along the north shore scenic and sculpture walk is a great way to enjoy the Aurora in downtown Reykjavík.
However, the light pollution means that the Northern Lights will be more vibrant outside the city. But you don't need to go up into the mountains to escape the light pollution. There are plenty of spots in the city or on its outskirts which offer great spots for Northern Lights viewing.
Picturesque Grótta peninsula
One of these is the picturesque Grótta island on the western tip of the Reykjavík peninsula. However, be advised that this is also probably the most popular Aurora viewing spot in Reykjavík, both among locals and foreign visitors. If you don't have a car or a booked Northern Lights tour the north shore scenic and sculpture walk is a great alternative.
Or you might want to check out one of these other great spots a local Aurora photographer and friend of Iceland Insider Snorri Þór Tryggvason has identified – note that Snorri leaves Grótta out of the map!
And remember: If you are traveling by car, while hunting for the Aurora, keep your eyes on the road!
Read more: Police stops foreign travellers driving under the influence of the Aurora
Two of the questions we get most frequently are whether it's possible to see the Aurora in Reykjavík, and where to find the best spots for Aurora viewing in the metropolitan region. The first question we can answer with a very simple and definitive Yes! Reykjavík is the undisputed Northern Lights Capital of the World.
Read more: Photos of yesterday's Aurora over downtown proves Reykjavík is the Northern Lights capital
If the skies are clear and the Aurora is active you can see the Northern Lights pretty much anywhere in Iceland, even in downtown Reykjavík. The best Aurora spots inside the city tend to be along the coast, where you have a broad horizon without streetlights or other sources of bright light polluting the sky. Taking a stroll along the north shore scenic and sculpture walk is a great way to enjoy the Aurora in downtown Reykjavík.
However, the light pollution means that the Northern Lights will be more vibrant outside the city. But you don't need to go up into the mountains to escape the light pollution. There are plenty of spots in the city or on its outskirts which offer great spots for Northern Lights viewing.
Picturesque Grótta peninsula
One of these is the picturesque Grótta island on the western tip of the Reykjavík peninsula. However, be advised that this is also probably the most popular Aurora viewing spot in Reykjavík, both among locals and foreign visitors. If you don't have a car or a booked Northern Lights tour the north shore scenic and sculpture walk is a great alternative.
Or you might want to check out one of these other great spots a local Aurora photographer and friend of Iceland Insider Snorri Þór Tryggvason has identified – note that Snorri leaves Grótta out of the map!
And remember: If you are traveling by car, while hunting for the Aurora, keep your eyes on the road!
Read more: Police stops foreign travellers driving under the influence of the Aurora
