​Top 14 Best Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland

What are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon that occurs when solar particles enter the atmosphere over arctic and subarctic regions. These particles create vivid colors like violet, electric green, and even pink.

The aurora often appears as a cloud-like band across the sky, but when intense, the lights can dance flamboyantly, creating the most mesmerizing displays. As such, witnessing them is a top bucket list activity for many travelers.

The science and myths surrounding the northern lights show two very different ways of understanding them. Today, we know they are caused by solar activity, but for centuries, people believed that they were omens of change or magical creatures racing across the sky.

The only time to see the northern lights in Iceland is between late September and early April. In summer, the midnight sun outshines and obscures the aurora borealis, so it isn't possible to see the northern lights between mid-May and early August.

Where to Stay to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

You can see the northern lights from almost anywhere in Iceland thanks to the country’s position under the auroral oval. However, staying in the countryside offers far better visibility than Reykjavik due to minimal light pollution. 

The countryside has darker skies with no city lights to block the view. Open landscapes give you wider horizons, so you can enjoy the aurora from all angles. Many countryside hotels also offer aurora wake-up calls so you won’t miss a display while you sleep. 

While the countryside offers the darkest skies, Reykjavik still gives you opportunities to see the aurora if you know where to look. Our guide to the best places to see the northern lights in Reykjavik highlights where to escape the worst of the city’s light pollution.

The Top 14 Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland

The accommodations on this list of the best northern lights hotels in Iceland have been carefully selected based on their location, amenities, and traveler reviews. Additionally, the majority of these top-rated hotels offer northern lights wake-up calls, making them some of the best places to stay in Iceland to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora borealis.

14. Black Beach Suites

Black Beach Suites offers private self-catering suites near the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Each unit is designed for independence, making it a convenient choice for travelers who want the freedom to set their own pace.

The property sits in a secluded spot with sweeping views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs, including Dyrholaey Rock. On clear nights, you can step right outside your suite for unobstructed views of the northern lights dancing above the Atlantic horizon.

Suites are spacious and modern, featuring large windows and private terraces. These open directly onto Iceland’s natural landscapes, giving you uninterrupted panoramas.

The suites also include practical amenities like kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, and parking, making them ideal for guests who value independence and comfort.

Located just minutes from Vik Village, guests can easily access restaurants, shops, and South Coast highlights. Black Beach Suites is ideal for couples or families wanting both privacy and front-row aurora views.

13. Vogafjos Guesthouse

Vogafjos Guesthouse is a rustic farm stay set on the shores of Lake Myvatn in North Iceland. Family-run and full of charm, it offers a cozy countryside atmosphere where guests are surrounded by nature.

Its location is ideal for northern lights hunters, with dark skies and wide horizons over the lake. The peaceful rural setting makes it easy to step outside and watch the aurora dance without distraction.

The property has 26 rooms decorated in a traditional Icelandic style, each with a private bathroom, patio, and free Wi-Fi. Wooden-cabin design and scenic views create a warm and authentic farm experience.What makes Vogafjos stand out is its on-site cafe, known for homemade dishes and fresh local produce. Guests can try specialties such as trout from Lake Myvatn, tender Icelandic lamb, and the famous “Geysir” rye bread baked in geothermal ground.

Nearby attractions include the Earth Lagoon, Dimmuborgir Lava Field, Grjotagja Hot Spring Cave, and the mighty Dettifoss Waterfall. Many visitors also join Myvatn tours to explore the region’s volcanic landscapes and geothermal wonders. 

With its farm-to-table dining, unique setting, and superb northern lights conditions, this northern lights hotel in Iceland is both a memorable and practical base in the northern region. 

12. Siglo Hotel 

Siglo Hotel sits on the waterfront in the picturesque fishing town of Siglufjordur in North Iceland. Its fjordside location gives guests sweeping views of mountains, harbor, and sea. The natural setting is ideal for aurora viewing under clear skies.

Guests can relax in the hotel’s geothermal hot pool, enjoy the sauna, or take a dip in the swimming pool while watching the northern lights dance above the fjord. The contrast between warm water and crisp night sky is unforgettable.

Rooms are modern and inviting, with large windows that face the harbor or surrounding mountains. Superior and deluxe rooms include balconies or sea views to enhance the experience. The decor blends coastal elegance with Nordic warmth.

Dining at Siglo is a highlight: the restaurant focuses on local seafood and Icelandic specialties, while the hotel also offers complimentary breakfast each morning. The bar adds a cozy ambiance for evening drinks after a day of exploration.

With free parking, 24-hour reception, and walkable access to shops, cafés, and local tours in Siglufjordur, Siglo Hotel blends convenience with charm. Its combination of waterfront luxury, wellness amenities, and excellent aurora views make it a top choice for northern lights chasers.

11. Fosshotel Nupar

Fosshotel Nupar is a three-star hotel with a prime location on Iceland’s South Coast. It sits just off Route 1, also known as the Ring Road, making it an easy stop for travelers exploring the country. The hotel is a comfortable resting place at the end of a day’s northern lights hunt.

Guests can watch the aurora right from their rooms thanks to the hotel’s open surroundings and minimal light pollution. To make the experience easier, Fosshotel Nupar offers a northern lights wake-up call service. Just make sure to inform the front desk so they can notify you.

The property is surrounded by wide, open landscapes with unobstructed skies. This spacious setting makes it simple to keep an eye out for auroral activity and provides stunning photo opportunities with Iceland’s dramatic scenery in the background.

Nearby attractions include Skaftafell Nature Reserve with glaciers and waterfalls, the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon with aurora views over floating icebergs, and the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach to the west.

A stay at Fosshotel Nupar also puts you close to winter adventures like ice cave tours in Vatnajokull Glacier, the largest in Europe. For meals, you can try local restaurants in Kirkjubaejarklaustur Village or dine at the hotel’s own restaurant and bar.

The hotel has 99 rooms for solo travelers, couples, and groups. Guests enjoy modern amenities including free Wi-Fi, parking, and tour assistance. Like all properties in the Fosshotel brand, it’s trusted by visitors for consistent comfort, quality, and excellent service.

10. Hotel Laxa

Hotel Laxa, sometimes called Laxa Hotel, is a three-star property and a top choice for northern lights hunters in North Iceland. Its setting on a wide plain, framed by mountains but free of tall trees or buildings, provides unobstructed skies for aurora viewing.

The hotel is less than 2 miles (3 kilometers) from Lake Myvatn, offering stunning aurora views over the water. A northern lights wake-up call service is also available, just inform the front desk at check-in.

Hotel Laxa is also located along the Diamond Circle sightseeing route, home to many of the region’s highlights. These include the dramatic Asbyrgi Canyon, the powerful Dettifoss Waterfall, and the coastal town of Husavik, known for whale watching.

Thanks to its location, guests can fill their days with outdoor activities such as hiking, soaking in hot springs, or joining whale- and puffin-watching tours. After a day of adventure, the hotel’s peaceful setting is perfect for northern lights viewing.

The property offers modern and stylish rooms in both standard and lake-view options. Facilities include a bar, restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and parking, ensuring comfort alongside its natural setting.

Hotel Laxa also caters to business groups with a conference room for up to 25 people. The nearest settlement, Reykjahlid Village, is only 8.5 miles (13.5 kilometers) away, making it easy to stock up on snacks and essentials during your stay.

9. Landhotel

Landhotel is a four-star northern lights hotel in Hella Village, South Iceland. Surrounded by mountains and the countryside, it offers excellent views of the aurora. To make aurora hunting easier, the hotel also provides a wake-up call service, so guests never miss a display.

Its location is close to both the Golden Circle and the South Coast waterfalls. This makes it a convenient base for travelers who want to see Iceland’s most famous attractions while staying in the countryside.

The Golden Circle includes highlights such as the Geysir Geothermal Area, the spectacular Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park, a site of cultural and geological importance. These landmarks are impressive year-round but feel even more magical when the aurora glows overhead.

After sightseeing, you can return to spacious rooms with countryside views. Each room sleeps up to three guests. There's also a separate sitting area and a refrigerator for your use. 

Wellness is another focus at Landhotel. Guests can enjoy a sauna, book a massage at the on-site spa, or join outdoor yoga classes and multi-day yoga retreats. Nearby, you’ll also find unique stops like Fridheimar Tomato and Horse Farm and Solheimar Eco Village.

Dining is available at the hotel restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you're going out for the day, you can request a pre-packaged meal to take with you on your adventures. However, inform the staff in advance, so they have enough time to prepare your meal.

8. The Hill 

The Hill Hotel is a cozy three-star northern lights stay in South Iceland. Set just outside the village of Fludir, it sits near geothermal landscapes and the famous Secret Lagoon Hot Spring. With 32 comfortable rooms, it offers an intimate countryside atmosphere.

The location is ideal for exploring the Golden Circle. Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir National Park are all within easy reach. Guests can also visit nearby attractions like Mount Midfell, Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.

Back at the hotel, rooms are bright and comfortable with en suite bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and garden access. Large windows and airy decor create a relaxing space to return to after sightseeing. Guests also enjoy a daily breakfast buffet included with their stay.

The hotel’s gardens feature outdoor hot tubs and a terrace, perfect for relaxing under the midnight sun or waiting for the aurora. A northern lights wake-up call service is also available until 11:00 PM. Simply sign up at the front desk and let the staff monitor the skies while you rest.

Dining is a highlight at The Hill. The on-site restaurant uses fresh ingredients from nearby farms to serve both Icelandic and international dishes. With its geothermal setting, comfortable amenities, and northern lights focus, The Hill Hotel is a welcoming base for travelers exploring South Iceland.

7. Stracta Hotel 

Stracta Hotel sits just off the Ring Road in the south Iceland town of Hella. It’s a modern and stylish base for exploring the South Coast and Golden Circle. The nearby panorama restaurant and courtyard hot tubs make it feel both urban and natural.

The hotel’s location offers darker skies away from city glare. Guests can hop into garden hot tubs or sit on terraces to watch the aurora overhead. What’s more, Stracta provides a wake-up call service so you won’t miss the lights. Make sure to inform the receptionist upon arrival and check-in. 

Rooms range from standard to studios and apartments, many with kitchenettes and private bathrooms. Some suites include private hot tubs for an extra luxury touch. The decor is clean, Scandinavian-inspired, with neutral tones and natural materials.

Onsite amenities include a restaurant, bar, sauna, and outdoor hot tubs. Breakfast is included, and dinner is served in a cozy atmosphere with local ingredients. A 24-hour front desk and tour services help guests plan their adventures.

Stracta Hotel’s standout qualities are its comfort, convenience, and aurora readiness. Whether you’re unwinding in a hot tub under the lights or stepping out to chase waterfalls, this hotel blends modern service with memorable nature viewing.

6. Umi Hotel 

Umi Hotel is a 4-star hotel in Iceland that combines contemporary design with a tranquil setting. Nestled between Eyjafjallajokull and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers one of the most scenic aurora backdrops in Iceland.

The hotel’s remote location ensures dark skies perfect for northern lights viewing. Guests can step outside or admire the display from the comfort of the lounge or dining area. Umi Hotel also offers a wake-up call service—just sign up and inform the reception during your check-in.

Rooms are stylish and comfortable, with large windows framing glaciers, mountains, or the sea. Each space is designed to highlight Iceland’s natural beauty while offering modern amenities.

This northern lights hotel in Iceland also boasts comfortable communal areas, a terrace, and a 24-hour tour desk. Breakfast is complimentary each morning, while the on-site restaurant serves fresh Icelandic ingredients for lunch and dinner in an elegant setting.

For travelers seeking a mix of luxury, seclusion, and aurora experiences, Umi Hotel is a superb choice.

5. Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon

Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is a modern northern lights hotel in Iceland perfectly positioned between Skaftafell Nature Reserve and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. This 4-star hotel in Iceland’s sleek design contrasts beautifully with the wild landscapes surrounding it.

Guests enjoy sweeping views of mountains, glaciers, and open skies. These features create excellent conditions for northern lights watching. Plus, with minimal light pollution, the aurora often shines brightly above the dramatic scenery.

To make sure you never miss a display, the hotel also provides an aurora wake-up call service. Just let the front desk know at check-in.

The hotel offers stylish rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the Icelandic wilderness. Its interior blends contemporary comfort with natural tones that reflect the environment.

On-site facilities include a highly rated restaurant and bar, where you can enjoy fresh Icelandic cuisine after a day of exploring. With its location and amenities, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is both a practical and atmospheric base for aurora hunters.

 4. Hotel Husafell

Hotel Husafell is a sustainable luxury eco-hotel located in the pristine Borgarfjordur region of West Iceland. Its remote setting makes it one of the country’s best spots for northern lights viewing. Plus, with minimal light pollution, it offers superb visibility on clear nights.

Guests can relax in the hotel’s geothermally heated outdoor hot tubs while waiting for the aurora to appear above the mountains and valleys.

The hotel offers a northern lights wake-up call service, ensuring you’ll never miss an aurora display, even late at night. Its location also makes it ideal for combining aurora hunting with adventure activities, including ice cave tours, glacier hikes, and visits to the Husafell Canyon Baths.Back at the hotel, you’ll find modern, eco-friendly comforts paired with farm-to-table dining featuring Icelandic lamb, freshly caught Arctic char, and seasonal vegetables from local farms. Menus change with the seasons, allowing guests to enjoy authentic Icelandic flavors in a refined yet welcoming setting.

The hotel is also surrounded by popular attractions, such as Langjokull Glacier, Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. The glacier can be seen from the property, while the waterfalls are only a few minutes' drive away. Hotel Husafell is an excellent choice for travelers who want eco-conscious luxury and a deep connection with nature.

3. Silica Hotel at Blue Lagoon

Silica Hotel is a luxury retreat set among the dramatic lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the Blue Lagoon, which makes it convenient for Blue Lagoon tours. With only 35 deluxe rooms, it offers an intimate stay where guests enjoy both privacy and exclusive access to the hotel’s own geothermal lagoon.

The property’s volcanic surroundings create an otherworldly stage for northern lights viewing. On clear winter nights, the aurora often shimmers above the steaming waters and black lava landscapes. Each room includes a tablet where you can request a northern lights wake-up call, book treatments, and explore more about the Blue Lagoon.

Rooms are modern and elegant, featuring private terraces or balconies, walk-in showers, and calming interiors inspired by Iceland’s nature. Guests can choose between lava, moss, or silica deluxe rooms, all with premium amenities including Icelandic toiletries and coffee machines.

Dining options are close at hand, with complimentary breakfast at the hotel and access to the Blue Lagoon’s acclaimed restaurants. Highlights include Lava Restaurant, set against a lava cliff, and Moss Restaurant, a Michelin-starred venue serving seasonal tasting menus.

Wellness is at the core of the Silica Hotel experience. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, in-water massages, or simply unwind in the exclusive Silica Lagoon, a quieter alternative to the Blue Lagoon. Combined with easy access to nearby attractions like Gunnuhver Geothermal Area and the Bridge Between Continents, it’s a rare escape that blends luxury, wellness, and nature.

2. ION Adventure Hotel

ION Adventure Hotel combines cutting-edge design with easy access to Iceland’s incredible natural wonders. It’s located on the edge of a lava field near Thingvellir National Park and the Golden Circle.

It’s also a perfect base for visiting nearby attractions like Oxararfoss Waterfall and Thrihnukagígur Volcano, the only volcano in the world you can enter.

After exploring these sights, guests can return to the hotel’s remote setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It’s also an ideal spot to watch the northern lights without leaving your room. To make the experience better, the hotel offers an aurora wake-up call service, ensuring no display is missed.

In addition to its aurora-friendly location, the hotel stands out for its eco-luxury and sustainable architecture and use of geothermal energy, appealing to eco-conscious travelers. Guests can also unwind at the award-winning Northern Lights Bar, take a dip in the outdoor hot pool, or book a rejuvenating treatment at the on-site spa.

ION Adventure Hotel offers an ideal balance of luxury, adventure, eco-conscious design, and sustainability. Whether you’re chasing the aurora, discovering volcanic landscapes, or simply enjoying the tranquility of Iceland’s wilderness, this Golden Circle hotel provides a unique experience in one of the best regions to see the northern lights.

1. Hotel Ranga 

Hotel Ranga is Iceland’s most famous luxury northern lights hotel and a top choice for travelers seeking a memorable aurora experience. Located near Hella in South Iceland, the hotel sits in a remote and prime location far from light pollution, giving guests excellent viewing conditions. 

On clear nights, you can relax in one of the hotel’s geothermally heated outdoor hot tubs and watch the northern lights dance across the sky with a glass of bubbly in hand.

One of the hotel’s highlights is its aurora wake-up service. Simply press a button on your in-room phone, and the staff will call when the lights appear. For stargazing enthusiasts, the Ranga Observatory offers guided tours with a local astronomer and two high-quality telescopes to explore constellations, planets, and galaxies. 

To make your northern lights experience even more comfortable, the hotel provides luxury suites, along with warm snowsuits, soft blankets, and cozy outdoor benches. Together, these touches create a perfect atmosphere for enjoying the show.

In addition to its aurora-focused amenities, Hotel Ranga is conveniently located near attractions such as the stunning Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, the Lava Center, and the Hella Caves. 

Hotel Ranga also caters to photography lovers, offering free tripod rentals for capturing stunning long-exposure shots. With its combination of luxury, comfort, and exclusive aurora-focused amenities, this hotel is an unforgettable base for northern lights hunting.

Quick Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland 

• The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is between September to April 

• Check the official aurora forecast to increase your chances of seeing the northern lights

• Escape city lights and visit the countryside. Darker skies mean better visibility

• Book hotels in Iceland with aurora wake-up calls for peace of mind

• Learn how to photograph the northern lights with the help of experts and guided northern lights tours in Iceland

FAQs About Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland

Where is the best place to stay in Iceland for the northern lights? 

Countryside hotels away from Reykjavik, such as Hotel Ranga, Hotel Husafell, and Fosshotel Nupar, give you the darkest skies and best chances of seeing the northern lights. 

Do hotels in Iceland offer northern lights wake-up calls? 

Yes! Many northern lights hotels in Iceland provide wake-up calls when the aurora appears, so you won’t miss it. 

Summary of the Best Hotels In Iceland To See The Northern Lights

Where you stay can have a significant impact on your chances of seeing the aurora in Iceland. The hotels highlighted in this guide share the essentials for memorable viewing: dark skies, open horizons, and thoughtful details like wake-up calls, hot tubs, and observatories.

Choosing the right base for your vacation in Iceland not only increases your odds of seeing the northern lights but also enhances the whole experience of winter in Iceland.

Since demand is high during peak season, it’s best to book northern lights hotels in Iceland as early as possible to secure your preferred stay at a good rate.

With the right hotel and a clear sky, your chances are high; all that’s left is to step outside and enjoy the show!

Did you find this list helpful for planning your trip? Are you considering staying at one of these northern lights hotels in Iceland, or have you already experienced the aurora from a special hotel stay? We’d love to hear about your plans and recommendations in the comments below.