Can You See The Northern Lights in Flåm?

If you’re wondering whether you can catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights in Flåm, I’ve got the lowdown for you. While Flåm is nestled amidst the stunning fjords and boasts some of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes, it’s not the prime spot for Northern Lights viewing.

The lights are best seen further north, ideally above the Arctic Circle, in places like Tromsø or Lofoten.

However, every rule has its exceptions, and there has actually been times where it has been possible to see the Northern Lights in Flåm – it is just very rare.

Growing up, I think we could see them just once or twice a year. In resent years, they have been visible in Flåm more often, but still only a handful of times per winter.

So, if you are visiting Norway to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, I wouldn’t choose places in the south (like Flåm, Aurland or Bergen) as your hub.

But don’t be disheartened! Flåm offers its own enchanting experiences, from scenic train rides to serene fjord cruises.

Read this too: My complete guide to visiting Flåm in winter

Seeing the Northern Lights in Flåm: A Local’s Tips

As mentioned, seeing the Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights in Flåm is very unlikely. However, if you visit Flåm during one of the nights they can be seen, here are my best tips.

• Leave the hotels and the village center: The hotels in Flåm are all mainly located in the village center, and this is also the brightest area in Flåm. To get a good view of the Northern Lights, head out of the village (the Brekkefossen hike is a great spot).
• Familiarise yourself with your smartphone or camera settings: Before night falls, make sure you know which settings to use on your camera in order to capture the lights. It is possible to take photos of the Northern Lights with an iPhone or other smartphone, you just have to use the right settings.
• Lower your expectations: Whilst there is a tiny chance of seeing the Northern Lights in Aurland, Flåm or the other villages along the fjord, chances are the lights won’t be as spectacular here as other places. Therefore, you are best off if you don’t expect the most impressive show – then you can be pleasantly surprised if you see the lights!
• Visit in the winter months: This goes without saying, but the best time of year to visit Norway for the Northern Lights is the winter. If you visit Flåm in May or June, for example, you won’t see the lights (even if they are there) as it is too light.
• Follow the forecasts: Pay attention to both the weather forecast (this is my favorite Norwegian service for it) and the Northern Lights forecast. You need both to play along if you have any chance of seeing them.