Although Denmark is not as famous as Norway or Iceland for witnessing this spectacle, it is possible to see the Northern Lights in Denmark in certain parts of the country if conditions are right. In this article, we will tell you how, when, and where to see the Northern Lights in Denmark so you can experience this magical moment.
Like all Scandinavian countries, Denmark evokes the Northern Lights, but this country is too southern to have regular aurora spots, although we can sometimes see them.
However, the Faroe Islands in Denmark are known for observing these celestial phenomena, not to mention the land of Greenland, also Danish. The auroras are visible in mainland Denmark but not every day. The Danes say aurora borealis or Nordlys to mean northern lights in their language.
In the heart of Denmark, National Parks and Nature Reserves emerge as perfect sanctuaries for observing the Northern Lights. These protected areas, far from city lights, offer a dark sky ideal for an unparalleled celestial spectacle.
Denmark offers multiple ideal locations, each with its own unique charm. From the serene island of Møn with its chalk cliffs and dark skies, to the wild Skagen Peninsula, where the North and Baltic Seas meet. Can you imagine watching the dance of lights in the sky in such a magical place?
Is it possible to see the Northern Lights in Denmark?
The answer is yes, although it's not as frequent or as easy as in other Nordic countries. Denmark's latitude places it a little further south than the areas where the Northern Lights are most common, but during particularly cold winters with high solar activity, it's possible to observe them in areas further from large cities, where there's less light pollution.
Where to see the Northern Lights in Denmark?
To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Denmark, it's best to stay away from urban areas and find places with dark, clear skies. Here are some of the best areas to try:
1. Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, are undoubtedly the best place to see the Northern Lights in Denmark. Their latitude and dark skies make them an ideal location for this phenomenon. If you're willing to venture beyond the mainland, the Faroe Islands offer an excellent opportunity to enjoy this natural spectacle.
In this archipelago located between the North Atlantic and the Norwegian Sea, light pollution is almost non-existent, guaranteeing clear skies to contemplate the Northern Lights in all their fullness.
You can start from Tórshavn, the capital, an ideal starting point from which to observe the Northern Lights in an enchanting setting. The island of Vagar also offers good opportunities for observing the Northern Lights, as does Kalsoy, the northernmost island, less populated and, above all, with less light pollution, a factor that can disturb the vision of the Northern Lights.
Other good places to see the Northern Lights include Sornfelli Mountain, the village of Hvannasund and Viðareiði, the northernmost settlement on the island of Viðoy. The best season to spot the Northern Lights is from late September to early April, with plenty of opportunities from November to February.
2. Skagen
Beyond the Faroe Islands, the Northern Lights can be seen in the North Jutland region (Northern Denmark), especially in the small harbour town of Skagen. On the mainland of Denmark, the highest probability of seeing the Northern Lights is in the region of North Jutland (or the region of Northern Denmark).
This rare opportunity only occurs on days of powerful solar flares. You can base yourself in Aalborg and travel at night to more remote areas to find less light-polluted places. A great place to try your luck in northern Denmark is the port town of Skagen, located at the northern tip of the Jutland peninsula.
While there are never any guarantees, the best places to visit in Denmark to see northern lights would be the northern cities of Aalborg or Skagen. Aalborg has quite a few nice hotels, so that would be a nice winter base while you’re waiting for the natural phenomenon to occur.
Located in northern Denmark, Skagen is a small coastal town known for being one of the best places to observe the auroras in Denmark. Its location, away from light pollution and with clear skies, increases the chances of witnessing this phenomenon. Skagen is also famous for the confluence of the North and Baltic Seas, making it an interesting tourist destination beyond the auroras.
3. Rømø and Fanø
The islands of Rømø and Fanø, off the west coast of Jutland, are ideal destinations if you want a chance to see the Northern Lights in Denmark. They're known for their vast, dark skies and open landscapes, allowing you to enjoy the spectacle without distractions. They're also popular destinations for their beaches and outdoor activities.
4. Thy National Park
Thy National Park, located in northwest Jutland, is another excellent option for those seeking dark, clear skies. This park is known for its pristine nature and lack of light pollution, making it a great place to try to see the Northern Lights. It is famous for its darkness and clear skies. Here, under the cover of night, the Aurora Borealis displays its dance of lights, painting the sky in shades of green and purple.
5. Copenhagen
The capital of Denmark, Copenhagen, is located much further south than all the other places known to see the Northern Lights in Denmark (Faroe Island, Greenland, Skagen, etc.), but it is possible to see the Northern Lights several times a year from the Copenhagen area. During major solar phenomena and favorable weather conditions, the Copenhagen region is the scene of dancing lights. However, we should not bet on Copenhagen to guarantee the show throughout the winter.
6. Grenen
It is a small peninsula located in the far north of mainland Denmark. In addition to the latitude, what makes this place a good observation point is the absence of artificial light from human settlements.
7. Kjul Strand
Along beach on the outskirts of the town of Hirtshals , from where many ferries depart to Norway.
8. Samso
An island located west of Copenhagen and famous for its excellently preserved natural environment. It is one of Denmark's best natural areas.
9. Mols Bjerge Nature Reserve
Its high hills, offers a panoramic view of the sky. At nightfall, this setting becomes a perfect stage for the majestic display of the Northern Lights. These parks and reserves not only offer stunning views but also the tranquility needed to enjoy this natural phenomenon at its best.
10. Greenland
Greenland is an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark and is a place where many auroras can be seen, especially when the sky is clear. Kangerlussuaq is one of the famous spots in Greenland to see the auroras. Disko Bay is also known for its views of the auroras in winter.
Ilulissat, a coastal city located in the western part of Greenland, famous for its icebergs is an exceptional location from which you can see the Northern Lights surrounded by a spectacular environment.
Nuuk is the capital of Greenland and another excellent location from which to admire the Northern Lights, without forgetting the cultural and naturalistic aspects that the city offers.
Kangerlussuaq is a very valid alternative for spotting the Northern Lights: its location inland and the scarce artificial lights make it an excellent observation point.
Tasiilaq, in eastern Greenland, offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to see the Northern Lights in an even more wild environment.
In Greenland, the best time to see the Northern Lights is from September to early April.
Best season to see the Northern Lights in Denmark
Seeing the Northern Lights in Denmark is possible almost all year round, but the season when we see the real Northern Lights is quite frankly between the beginning of September and the beginning of April, the heart of winter is the best time from November to February. The season for a Northern Lights trip to the Faroe Islands or Denmark is therefore at its peak from October to March.
To see the Northern Lights, a cold and clear night is ideal. Auroras are difficult to predict far in advance, forecasting applications can identify them a few hours or days in advance. It is not a question of planning a trip far in advance and guaranteeing to see the Northern Lights phenomenon. Avoid full moon nights and proximity to large cities.
Some recommendations to increase your chances of success:
Look for cloudless nights: Visibility depends on clear skies, so check the weather forecast and select nights with few clouds.
Avoid light pollution: Stay away from cities and towns. City lights can obscure the auroras, so the darker the sky, the better.
Check out solar apps and forecasts: Apps like Aurora Forecast help you track solar activity and predict when and where you're most likely to see auroras.
