Best Places to See Aurora Near Bergen on Mountains

For official information, visit Bergen travel info.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Bergen Airport.

Mount Ulriken offers an even higher vantage point for viewers. You can take the cable car to reach the summit. Tickets for the cable car cost around 365 NOK. The higher elevation often puts you above the low city haze.

Sandviksfjellet is a great choice for those who enjoy hiking. It is much darker than the main tourist platforms. You should bring a headlamp for the walk down. The view toward the north is excellent from here.

• Mount Fløyen (Easy access via funicular)
• Mount Ulriken (Highest peak in Bergen)
• Sandviksfjellet (Quiet and dark hiking trails)

Always check the local weather before heading up the mountains. Clouds can block the view very quickly in Bergen. Check if you can see Northern Lights today. High winds can also close the cable cars.

Coastal Locations for Clear Northern Horizon Views

The island of Sotra is a favorite for local photographers. It sits west of the city and has very little light. You can find many quiet coastal roads here. Look for parking spots that face the open sea.

Herdla is located at the northern tip of Askøy island. It is about a 45-minute drive from the city center. The area is flat and offers a 360-degree sky view. This makes it a top spot for faint displays.

Øygarden provides some of the darkest skies in the region. The archipelago stretches far into the North Sea. You will find many bridges with great views. These spots are perfect for seeing the green glow.

• Sotra (Rugged coast and dark skies)
• Herdla (Historic area with open horizons)
• Øygarden (Remote islands with zero light pollution)

Planning your visit during the best months for aurora is helpful. Aim for the months between October and March. These months provide the darkest nights for viewing. The year 2026 promises high solar activity.

Inland Lakes and Quiet Valleys Near Bergen

Lake Kalandsvatnet is a beautiful spot south of the city. The large lake offers a clear view toward the north. On calm nights, the water reflects the dancing lights. It is a very peaceful place to wait.

Arna is located just a short train ride away. The mountains behind Arna block the bright city lights. You can find many dark fields in this valley. It is often colder here than in the center.

The Fana district has several quiet parks and forests. Stendafjellet is a popular hill for local aurora hunters. It requires a short walk through the trees. The summit offers a clear view of the horizon.

• Lake Kalandsvatnet (Perfect for reflection photos)
• Arna Valley (Shielded from city light glow)
• Stendafjellet (Local favorite in the Fana area)

Use forecast apps for Bergen to track the aurora. These apps show the KP index in real time. A KP index of 3 or higher is best. This increases your chances of a bright show.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Aurora Hunt

Dressing for the cold is the most important step. Temperatures often drop below freezing on clear nights. Wear wool base layers and a thick jacket. Don't forget warm boots and insulated gloves.

Bring a thermos with a hot drink to stay warm. Waiting for the aurora can take several hours. Patience is the key to a successful hunt. The lights can appear and vanish in minutes.

If you have a car, keep it running occasionally. This provides a warm place to rest between sightings. Many people prefer guided northern lights tours for ease. These tours include transport and expert knowledge.

• Wear multiple layers of wool clothing
• Pack a sturdy tripod for your camera
• Keep your phone battery warm in a pocket
• Bring snacks and hot coffee or tea

Check the Visit Bergen website for local event updates. They often post about solar activity during the winter. This helps you plan your night more effectively. Enjoy the chase in beautiful Norway.