best time of year to visit iceland for northern lights

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ICELAND Northern Lights Month-by-Month Planner

Planning a successful trip to Iceland for the aurora begins with choosing the right time of year. In this article, we breakdown Iceland Northern Lights month-by-month, and explain what the best month to see northern lights Iceland is.

Iceland is well-renowned as a prime aurora-chasing destination, with many tours and accommodation designed around aurora hunters seeking a glimpse of these spectacular lights. However, despite the inspiring photos and travel marketing hype, it is not as simple as wandering over to the icy land, stepping outside your hotel, and seeing them blaring in the sky whenever you like. There are many factors that come into play which allow you to see the northern lights, and the most important one is choosing the right time of year.

If you plan on visiting Iceland to view the northern lights, it is important to make sure that you plan ahead of time. Every year, countless people make their way up to Iceland in order to hunt for the elusive auroras, which can make it very difficult to find available accommodations if you are searching at the last minute. In this guide, we explain the best month to see Northern Lights Iceland, to ensure you plan and book your trip for the right time and give you the best chance of seeing them. We also explain other factors that affect aurora visibility, so you can plan your trip accordingly.

So, read through this guide as well as our other Iceland Northern Lights articles here , and start planning for a wonderful aurora vacation.

Factors Affecting Iceland Northern Lights Visibility

There are many factors that affect the visibility of the aurora borealis in Iceland. These include the location, the Earth’s magnetic activity, solar activity, weather conditions, light pollution, both the season and time of day, as well as the solar cycle.

Geographical Location

The closer to the poles you are, the easier it is to view the elusive lights. In the northern hemisphere, the best locations to see the aurora borealis are Alaska, Scandinavia, northern Canada, and of course Iceland. The chances of catching a glimpse of the northern lights increase as you get closer to the magnetic poles.

Magnetic Activity

The magnetic activity also plays a very important role in the visibility of the auroras. The lights themselves are actually caused by an interaction of the sun’s solar radiation with the Earth’s magnetic field. When magnetic activity surrounding the planet increases, it helps to enhance the visibility as well as the intensity of the northern lights. The best time for viewing the auroras is when geomagnetic storms are at their highest.

Solar Activity

Naturally, solar activity is crucial to the creation of auroras. The more active the sun is, the greater the visibility of the northern lights. During solar cycle peaks, large amounts of radiation are ejected from the surface of the sun into space. As this solar radiation passes around the Earth’s magnetic field, it results in an ionization of the upper atmosphere. This ionization is what creates the northern lights.

Weather Conditions

While the actual weather conditions play very little role in the creation of the auroras, they are crucial to ensuring that the elusive lights are visible. It takes very little cloud cover or precipitation to completely obstruct the view of the northern lights. This is why most aurora hunters prefer seeking out the elusive lights during the winter months. The skies are darker and clearer during the winter months than at any other time of year.

Light Pollution

The closer you are to a major city, the greater the chances that light pollution can interfere with your ability to see the northern lights. If you have ever taken a trip to another part of the country, then chances are you could easily spot where a major city is on the horizon, by the halo of light that envelops it at nighttime. This is light pollution, and it can greatly diminish your ability to view the elusive lights.

Season and Time of Day

The auroras are technically visible year-round. Astronauts in outer space can view the elusive lights regardless of the time of day or season. But on earth, it is best to hunt for the northern lights during the time of year when the night is the longest. The longer the night, the darker the skies, and the easier it will be to view the auroras.

Solar Cycle

The level of solar activity peaks every 11 years. This is known as the solar cycle. And while it is possible to view the northern lights during the winter when the solar cycle is at its weakest, the odds of capturing a glimpse of the elusive lights increases during the peak of the solar cycle. During the last major solar cycle, the solar activity was so great, that the auroras could be seen as far south as France and Kentucky. For further explanation of the best years to see the aurora and the solar cycles read our article here .

BEST MONTH TO SEE NORTHERN LIGHTS Iceland

When it comes to viewing the aurora borealis in Iceland, the best time of year is between September and April. While there is no guarantee that you will actually view the auroras when visiting Iceland during these months, the odds of catching a glimpse of them increases substantially.

The best months to view Northern Lights in Iceland is September to April.

Of that period, many seasoned aurora hunters choose to do their northern lights hunting in September and October , or February and March . These months are close to the equinoxes which some people have said anecdotally is best for aurora activity. More importantly, these months side-step the snow storms of Winter, which bring in cloud cover that can obstruct views of the aurora. Not to mention, it is more pleasant being outside when it’s not so cold that your hair freezes and breaks off.

Iceland Northern Lights Month-by-Month Planner

It is possible to capture a glimpse of the elusive lights in Iceland over the course of an 8-month period. Starting in September, the days begin to shorten and the nights become longer. This continues on until the peak of winter when the night lasts for nearly 24 hours each day. As the seasons segue from winter into spring, the chances of capturing a glimpse of the auroras decreases with each passing day.

Considerations for Iceland Northern Lights in September:

September is one of the first months of the year that the northern lights can be routinely viewed in Iceland. It is best to visit the country towards the end of September when the weather is still hospitable, but the longer nights provide ample opportunity to hunt for the lights. For sightseeing, the countryside is beautiful as the trees express their red and orange autumn colors, and the days are still mild enough to walk around outside comfortably.

Iceland in October Northern Lights Considerations:

By October, as the nights continue to get longer, the weather conditions change and tend to become a little more difficult to predict. While the temperature is still bearable during the daytime, the night brings the first major snowstorms of the year. As a result, it’s important to pay close attention to local forecasts before making your way out into the Icelandic countryside to hunt for the lights.

Considerations for iceland northern lights november:

The nights continue to get longer throughout November, and the air gets increasingly colder. During this time of year, the snowstorms tend to even out, making it easier to predict the best time to head out into the countryside to view the auroras. Make sure to avoid a full moon, as the moon can create excessive amounts of light pollution.

Considerations for iceland Northern Lights in December:

December provides some of the longest nights of the year. It is also one of the coldest times of year to visit Iceland. While it may be one of the best times of year to visit the country and view the auroras, keep in mind that it is also the most popular time of year for tourism. During December, most of the lodgings will be fully booked.

Considerations for January Northern Lights in Iceland:

During the month of January, the skies are clearer than any other time of year. The nights are at their longest, and the temperatures at their coldest, but the odds of catching a glimpse of the elusive auroras increases substantially. Due to the frigid conditions, the chances of finding vacancies increases as well.

Considerations for February Northern Lights in Iceland:

As the year segues from January into February, the nights begin to shorten and the days grow longer. Nevertheless, the nights are still long enough to ensure plenty of opportunities to view the elusive lights. The skies are generally clear throughout the month, which enhances the visibility of the lights as a dance through the heavens.

Considerations for Iceland northern lights in march

By March, the first thaws of the year begin to warm the Icelandic countryside making it more bearable for aurora hunters. While the nights are still long enough to view the lights, the odds of capturing sight of them decreases with each day. Early March is one of the most popular times of year for seeking the northern lights throughout Europe. However, the snow melt will make the ground wet and boggy for outside hiking, so be prepared and take a good pair of boots.

iceland northern lights in april Considerations:

During the earliest parts of April, it is still possible to view the northern lights in Iceland. However, as the month progresses, it will be increasingly difficult to view them. By mid-April, the chances of capturing a glimpse of the elusive lights fade into oblivion.

May, June, July, August – AVOID THESE MONTHS

Iceland northern lights in may-august considerations:.

While this time of year is popular for vacationers as it coincides with summer break, when it comes to aurora-hunting it is very important that you avoid these months. The days are simply too long and bright, and the short nights do not have the deep darkness that is needed to reveal the northern lights.

Common Question: Can you see the northern lights in Iceland in July?

No, for one main reason, there is too much sunlight. In the northern regions of the world close to the Arctic Circle, the daylight hours are extremely long, reaching almost 24 hours in some parts. For successful northern lights watching, you need total darkness, to allow the aurora to shine against the dark sky. While the aurora borealis is always there, you can only see it when it is dark. Think of northern lights viewing like star-gazing – the stars are always there, but you can’t see them during the daytime because it is too light. The same principle applies to the aurora borealis. It is simply not dark enough to see northern lights in Iceland in July. You will not be able to see northern lights in Iceland in during the entire period of May, June, July for this reason.

Day Activities to Enjoy While Waiting for the Northern Lights in Iceland

While there are some who visit Iceland purely to view the northern lights, many other visitors to the country want to experience all that the country has to offer. This is why most lodgings offer a wake-up service when the lights appear, and provide an endless list of activities to keep you busy throughout the day. Here are some of the best daytime activities to keep you busy while waiting for the northern lights to appear.

Whale Watching

Of course, nothing beats getting up close and personal with whales. May to September are the best months for catching whales crossing through the Icelandic waters, so if you’re visiting Iceland northern lights in September make sure to include whale watching in your itinerary, too. There are countless whale-watching opportunities throughout Iceland. Some of the best destinations to find a whale-watching expedition are Reykjavik, Akureyri, and Husovik. You will have the opportunity to view orcas, humpbacks, as well as minke whales.

Golden Circle Tour

One of the most popular attractions in Iceland is the Golden Circle. This is a route that takes visitors to 3 of the most popular destinations in the country. Visitors who take a tour of the Golden Circle will be able to visit the Geysir geothermal area, Thingvellir National Park, as well as the Gullfoss Waterfall.

Glacier Hiking

For those feeling a little more adventurous, there are plenty of guided tours that will take you hiking out on a glacier. They provide you with all of the proper equipment that you need and an experienced guide will take you out to explore the awe-inspiring landscapes that stretch on for miles.

Ice Cave Explorations

Naturally, if there are glaciers in Iceland, then there are also ice caves to explore. Take advantage of a magical expedition through the many beautiful, blue, ice caves in the country. Experienced guides will take you on an amazing expedition through the frigid blue caves.

Snowmobiling

For those looking for a little bit of an adrenaline rush, snowmobiling is always an excellent way to see the Icelandic countryside. Strap on a cold winter suit, and head out onto a glacier on the back of a high-powered snowmobile as it cuts through the Icelandic countryside at break-neck speeds.

Hot Springs and Geothermal Spas

Not only is Iceland known for its stunning snow-covered vistas, but it is also well known for its geothermal activity. Due to the high level of geothermal activity in Iceland, hot springs are found at many different sites. The most popular hot springs in the country can be found at the Blue Lagoon.

Snowshoeing

During the peak of the winter months, when the Icelandic countryside is covered with fresh layers of powdery snow, the best way to view the magnificent vistas is by snowshoeing through the countryside. There are countless trails and experienced guides will take you on an amazing adventure through the wintry scenery. Since snow is of course essential for this activity, the best months for it are the most snow-covered ones, from December to February/March.

Dog Sledding

But, if you’d really like to view Iceland the way it was meant to be seen, then you have to take a dog sled. There is nothing more thrilling than being pulled across the snow-covered landscape by a team of friendly yet energetic huskies. The time of year to enjoy dog sledding is of course in winter, from November to March, since snow is essential for this activity. But beware, from personal experience, being pulled in a sled at high speed in January is terrifyingly cold, to the point of fearing I had frostbite on my toes – despite that, it was truly a memorable experience.

Final Tips for Iceland Northern Lights Month & Time

By now, you should have a pretty good idea of Iceland northern lights month and time of year options for your aurora vacation. To summarize quickly, the best month to see northern lights Iceland is September to April. To fine-tune that time period, you may like to consider September-October or February-March for your trip. While December and January are very dark and renowned for northern lights, those months are often plagued by snow clouds and it is bitterly cold to spend time outside waiting for the aurora to appear.

Since you’re planning in advance, I also suggest you read about the best years to see the aurora based on solar activity , since we are coming up to a solar peak. Choosing a year with high solar activity will maximize your chances for seeing the northern lights, and it pays to spend a few minutes learning about this aspect of it.

For more resources, be sure to check out our Northern Lights Iceland category page on this website, which is packed full of articles about seeing the aurora in Iceland, to help you plan your vacation.

Happy aurora chasing!

Further Reading and Sources:

• Visit Iceland https://www.visiticeland.com/article/northern-lights-in-iceland
• Thingvellir National Park https://www.thingvellir.is/en/

Related posts:

• ICELAND Where to See Northern Lights | Best Places
• NEWS: ICELAND 2023 Volcano Halts Aurora Borealis Hunters
• What is the Best Time to See Northern Lights NORWAY?
• Best Northern Lights Hotels ICELAND for All Budgets

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Best Times and Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Imagine watching celestial lights dance across the sky in vivid shades of green, red and pink. And all the while you're snug under a blanket! 

If you've dreamed of a moment similar to this, you're not alone. Thousands of people visit the Land of Fire and Ice every year in the hope of seeing the northern lights in Iceland . It's probably on more travel bucket lists than anything else.

Well, you too can see this legendary light show with a bit of luck, patience, and careful planning. To help you boost your chances, we’ve put together this guide. It details the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland, the top recommended places to watch them from, and some expert travel advice.

So get ready to find the answers to popular questions about auroras, and even learn tips on photographing this (literally) heavenly display.

• Chase the aurora on one of these northern lights tour packages in Iceland

When is the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland?

The best time to see the aurora borealis in Iceland comes down to 2 factors: time of year and time of day . The best months are between October and March. The best time of day would be the hours around midnight.

Here we explain why that is.

1. Northern lights season in Iceland

You have a greater chance of seeing the aurora borealis between October and March. However, that’s not to say you won’t or can’t see the northern lights at other times of year too. Your chances are just better during this time, which is why our tours run across these months.

Winter is the ideal time to visit Iceland to see the northern lights thanks to the longer nights of the season. Some regions get as many as 19 hours of darkness on the shortest day of the year, which provides plenty of opportunities for spotting the aurora borealis.

As Iceland has long hours of daylight during the summer, including the phenomenon known as the midnight sun , it’s much harder to see auroras during this time of year.

• Check out these Iceland winter tours to hunt for the aurora and enjoy activities like ice caving

2. Best time of day to see the aurora borealis

Northern lights often appear during the darkest part of the night, so most sightings happen between 11 PM and 2 AM. 

You can spend the night stargazing, on the lookout for this otherworldly display. Some hotels also offer a special "wake up service" and will let you know if the northern lights appear in the middle of the night.

• Related: Top northern lights hotels in Iceland

Where is the best place to see the northern lights in Iceland?

You can spot the aurora borealis from any location in Iceland, even the capital city of Reykjavík. But for the best chances, you should move away from sources of light pollution (streetlighting). 

Artificial light makes it harder to see the colours of the northern lights clearly in the sky above you. That’s why travelling out from the city to more remote regions, where there’s little light pollution, is a good idea.

Here are the best places to see the aurora in Iceland.

1. Vík & South Iceland

Vík, with its black sand beaches and basalt columns, provides northern light hunters with a stunning backdrop. And it's only a few hours' drive south from Reykjavík via the Ring Road.

In fact, the authentic fishing village of Vík is one of the top places to visit on a tour of South Iceland .

Walk along the black sands of Reynisfjara , one of the most dramatic beaches in Iceland. Look out to see the basalt columns of Reynisdrangar and the rock arch of Dyrhólaey .

Come evening, admire the jagged black rocks jutting out from the ocean as the northern lights dance above you.

From Vík, you could continue along the Ring Road to reach Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Watch the colours of the aurora ripple above the sparkling ice in this breathtaking setting.

• Related: Your guide to the south coast of Iceland

2. Westfjords & North Iceland

North Iceland and the Westfjords regions are a bit further north than Reykjavík, which means you get slightly longer hours of darkness. This gives you a wider window of opportunity to see the aurora.

These areas also offer the benefit of smaller urban populations, reducing any potential effect on your viewing experience.

Wondering what to do in Iceland’s Westfjords ? As well as searching for the northern lights, you might like to hike to Drangajökull glacier or take a snowshoe walk in Heydalur valley. Don’t miss a visit to Ísafjörður , the capital of the Westfjords.

On a tour of North Iceland , you could also go whale watching, visit mighty waterfalls like Dettifoss , and explore volcanic sites around Lake Mývatn .

• Related: Must-see sites in North Iceland

3. Þórsmörk

To immerse yourself in the unspoiled wilderness on your trip to Iceland, head to Þórsmörk . This nature reserve is located in the Icelandic highlands, where volcanoes and glaciers reign supreme.

In winter, Þórsmörk is one of the few places in the highlands that is accessible by super jeep. Its remote location means that you have a good chance of seeing the northern lights on a clear night.

During your tour of the Icelandic highlands , you could also visit the Gígjökull glacier tongue, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and Eyjafjallajökull volcano.

• Related: Your guide to Iceland's highlands

4. Reykjavík

If you're short on time, or prefer to stay in Iceland’s biggest city, you can still see the northern lights. Reykjavík has quite a few parks, which are perfect for getting away from the city’s artificial light.

We particularly recommend Grotta Lighthouse on the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, as this is one of the darkest areas of Iceland’s capital. It also has a geothermal hot tub, so you can bask in the warmth for a spell while you wait for nature’s light show to start.

You can join an aurora-watching tour from Reykjavík and head out from the city into the countryside. An expert guide would pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the best possible spots to catch the northern lights.  

Additionally, if you take a guided northern lights tour but the aurora doesn't appear, you could head out again another evening free of charge. Contact our Iceland specialists to find out more.

• Related: Top things to do in Reykjavík

Helpful apps & tools for planning your aurora hunt

The northern lights are best witnessed on a clear night, without cloud cover. You can check weather conditions beforehand and see whether your chances are high with the  Icelandic Met Office’s aurora forecast.

The Met Office forecast gives you a rating, between 0 and 9, of your likelihood of seeing the aurora borealis. Anything above a 2 is promising.

Here are some other tools for planning your northern lights hunt:

• Cloud Cover Forecast : Icelandic Met Office's tool forecasts cloud cover to see whether you’ll have a clear night or whether you can stay in bed.
• SolarHam : commonly used by aurora hunters, this tool shows you a reliable 3-day geomagnetic forecast so you can plan your search.
• Aurora Forecast app : this tool allows you to view the position of the auroral oval from your smartphone. It also tells you how likely you are to see the northern lights from your location.
• Related: Travel tips for visiting Iceland

Photographing the northern lights

When the aurora borealis appears, you’ll undoubtedly want to take lots of snaps. Photographing the aurora borealis takes a bit more expertise, and your camera needs a good nighttime setting. Using an SLR camera with a manual focus often produces some of the best results.

You might also want to bring a tripod for long release shots, shutter release for steadiness and, of course, spare batteries and extra memory cards.

On a more technical note, we recommend turning off your camera’s image stabiliser and increasing its ISO to at least 400 to 800 (or even higher) depending on your lens. Also, set your aperture as low as possible and use long exposure shots of 15 to 30 seconds to help your camera capture more light.

Practice taking some nighttime shots beforehand, so you’re prepared when the northern lights appear. After all, you don’t want to be adjusting settings and miss one of nature’s best light shows.

4 amazing ways to see the aurora borealis in Iceland

1. rent a car.

Rent your own wheels and head off into Iceland’s more remote regions. Getting away from the crowd means you won’t have to deal with city lights and can experience the northern lights on your own. These  winter self-drive tours of Iceland  feature the best routes and stops.

2. Hire your own guide

Taking a  privately guided tour of Iceland  can be a great idea as your expert guide will have the inside scoop. They'll take you to some of the best spots for watching the northern lights. While they certainly can’t control whether the lights appear, they can make sure you don’t miss them if they do emerge!

3. Join a group tour

Watch the aurora borealis with new friends on a  small group tour of Iceland . Guided tours take all the hassle out of planning your northern light hunt as guides handle everything so you can relax and enjoy the experience.

4. Take a multi-day tour

For a mix of independent travel and guided excursions, choose an Iceland multi-day tour package . You'd be based in Reykjavík, and perhaps another location like the Westfjords, then take day and evening tours to suit you. 

• View our full range of  northern lights tours in Iceland

Northern lights FAQs

1. what are the northern lights.

The northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, are created when solar winds collide with gases in Earth's upper atmosphere. These "winds" are actually electrically charged particles emitted by the sun.

When the charged particles hit our atmosphere, they excite oxygen and nitrogen molecules, creating an auroral display.

You’re most likely to witness pale green aurora borealis. These shades are produced by the typical altitude where the interactions occur, and are also most easily detected by the human eye. But on rare occasions, you might also see vivid shades of red, yellow, blue or violet dancing across the sky.

Auroras appear at both of the Earth's magnetic poles. The northern lights (or aurora borealis) occur near the North Pole, while the southern lights (or aurora australis) happen around the South Pole.

• Related: What are the northern lights?

2. Is Iceland a good place to see the aurora borealis?

Iceland is a great place to see the aurora borealis. You have the best chance of witnessing an auroral display in the "northern lights belt", an elliptical area about 65 to 72 degrees north. This zone runs through Iceland, making it a top spot for aurora sightings.

Not only will you have a greater chance of seeing the northern lights in Iceland, but light shows here are often more intense.

Finally, as Iceland is the most sparsely populated country in Europe, there is less ambient light pollution . This means that you are likely to make out the colours of the aurora very clearly.

• Related: Best times and places to see the northern lights in Europe

3. Why does the aurora borealis happen?

Northern lights certainly appear to be from another world, and in a way they are. But their appearance can be explained, like most things, by science.

Aurora borealis appear in the night sky after a solar storm on the sun. Solar storms release giant flares, which in turn release charged particles into the solar system. Over the course of 40 hours, these particles travel the 100 million miles or so it takes to reach the Earth’s atmosphere.

When they reach Earth, they collide with atoms in our upper atmosphere. This creates the spectacular and colourful phenomenon we call the aurora borealis.

Like most natural occurrences, the aurora borealis is infamously unpredictable and never arrives on a set schedule. They can also take a variety of forms, and no two shows are ever the same.

You might spot gentle green waves, pink rippling curtains, or sweeping blue arcs. You only have to look at photos to realise how different each light show truly is.

Their exact shape and colour depend on the type of atoms, the intensity of the sun’s solar activity, and the Earth’s magnetic forces.

4. What did the Norse think of the northern lights?

Long before scientists explained the aurora borealis, our ancestors found their own explanations for it. As the northern lights appear over North America and Scandinavia, different cultures created various narratives and interpretations for this heavenly phenomenon.

According to Norse mythology, the aurora borealis was a sign of the gods. The lights were thought to be reflections of the armour of the Valkyries – mythical female warriors – on their way to war in Valhalla.

Icelandic people also believed that the northern lights would take away the pain of childbirth, though the mothers should avoid looking directly at the aurora.

Now that you know the best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland, why not start planning your visit? Explore these aurora borealis tour packages in Iceland to find your perfect trip.

You’ll have a dedicated travel consultant who will book your accommodation, activities and transport for you. All our Iceland travel experts are based in Reykjavík, so they know the country inside out. They’ll use their knowledge to create your ideal northern lights tour.

Plus, you’ll have a delicious daily breakfast included in your trip, as well as access to our 24/7 helpline. Should you need our support, we are only a call away.

Get in touch to speak to an Iceland expert and make your northern lights dream a reality.

Greg Perkins is from Edinburgh, Scotland, but he adopted Iceland as his second country when Scotland (typically) managed not to qualify for football's Euro 2016 tournament. His passions include travel, English literature, and board games. Among his top travel experiences are sailing along Geirangerfjord with classically trained singers providing the soundtrack, seeing Sólheimajökull glacier up close in South Iceland, and witnessing the unspoiled beauty of New Zealand's Doubtful Sound fjord.

Find Greg on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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NORTHERN LIGHTS CIRCLE TOUR

Northern lights adventure in the westfjords, related posts, top 5 northern lights hotels in iceland.

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How to See the Northern Lights: Viewing Tips

Best times & places to see the northern lights in europe, top 10 things to do in iceland in winter.

The Aurora Hunter’s Practical Guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland – 2024 Winter Edition

• Last Updated: December 27, 2023
• Norbert Zohó

The Aurora Borealis is a magnificent natural phenomenon that lights up Iceland’s night skies for more than seven months of the year. The chance to witness the spectacular Northern Lights for themselves draws numerous visitors every year. Indeed, catching a glimpse of the magical Aurora is a must-do for many travelers.

Despite Iceland being among the top spots to view the surreal light show, seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is never guaranteed. Plenty of planning and patience is essential, along with lashings of local knowledge and paying attention to the conditions. Of course, luck also plays a huge part in sightings.

We’ve put together this handy guide to maximize your chances of seeing the marvelous Northern Lights for yourself. We’ve covered all bases, from where to go for the best chances of witnessing the nighttime splendor and the ideal time of year for Aurora hunting to the best conditions. Hopefully, you’ll be able to witness the gorgeous lights in Iceland. 

Perfect Location: The Auroral Zone

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The Ideal Conditions to See the Northern Lights 

Several factors play a part in the optimum chance of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland. Sadly, you can’t book a trip to Iceland in the winter and automatically expect to catch sight of the lights. 

First and foremost, the location and time are crucial. It’s not enough to simply visit Iceland during the right season. Succeeding in your goal of witnessing the Northern Lights requires a couple of other conditions to be met. Therefore, the length of your stay is an important factor. The longer you stay, the more likely the following factors will align so that you can see the aurora.

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Auroras. You need to know, however, what places the lights appear the most and where to see the lights at their most magnificent. The Northern Lights are caused by geomagnetic storms. Finding where these storms occur is key to seeing the lights at their most brilliant. Geometric storms are measured by a scale called the Kp index. A reading of 0 means minimal activity, whereas nine means a lot of activity. In general, the higher the reading, the further south you’ll be able to witness the Northern Lights. 

Typically, the storms have a magnitude of between Kp1 and Kp3. In Scandinavia, this means that the Northern Lights are only visible at a latitude of around 66°N & 69°N.

Do note, however, that even when the predicted Kp rating is 0, you may still possibly spot the lights if you are right in the middle of the Auroral Zone. A Kp0 rating means little activity from geomagnetic storms, not zero activity. Therefore, residual activity can result in small-scale localized sightings.      

Iceland benefits from being right in the Auroral Zone. Its prime position means it can observe the lights for more than half of the year.  

Solar activity is also vital for seeing the Aurora Borealis. While impossible to precisely predict, studying the weather forecast along with Northern Lights forecast applications and websites can help to increase the chances of seeing the lights.

Although the conditions that cause the lights (charged particles) to occur at any time of the day or night, it’s impossible to see the effects when the sun is shining brightly. Sunlight renders the lights invisible. The aurora forecast can be perfect, but without a dark sky, you won’t be able to witness the exciting natural phenomenon. This means that the lights are less visible on nights with a full moon and when there is lots of light pollution. 

There are more chances of seeing the lights in more remote destinations than in highly illuminated cities, for example. You will enjoy the Northern Lights much more intensely with less pollution to distract your eyes.  

In addition to plenty of solar activity and dark skies, you need the sky to be clear to appreciate the Northern Lights. The lights can be dancing brightly, but if obscured by cloud cover, you sadly won’t be able to see them. A few clouds are fine, but the dense cover is not. Conveniently, many aurora forecast applications also give details of cloud cover forecasts.   

The flat ground at a higher elevation with nothing obstructing the view is typically the ideal location to spot the lights. At times, the lights hang low over the horizon, meaning that mountains or buildings can interrupt your view. Ideally, seeing a bigger amount of the sky enables you to experience the lights at their best.   

You should also be aware of safety considerations. Not only is it dangerous to stop at the roadside at night, but it is also illegal. You should always find a safe place to park. If walking to a viewpoint, ensure you have a torch and sturdy footwear. There’s no point tripping in the dark and injuring yourself, especially in a remote area. 

The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

The aurora season in Iceland is between late August and early April. As you can only see the Northern Lights in darkness, it’s impossible to see them during Iceland’s bright summers. Iceland is, after all, famous for its summer midnight sun and winter light shows. 

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is when you have the perfect combination of long dark nights and optimum weather conditions. 

Between November and February, the middle of winter sees the longest nights, with some 18 to 21 hours of darkness. This is, however, the stormiest and rainiest time of year in Iceland too.

The months on either side of this period, in September and March , have the prime weather conditions for glimpsing the lights and long dark nights. 

While September and March are usually the optimum times for seeing the magical Aurora in Iceland, you still need luck to experience the mystical light show. There is never any guarantee of being able to enjoy the lights.

Solar activity has 11-year cycles. Each cycle has an active and inactive phase. The last solar maximum happened around 2013. In 2023, we’re heading towards the next solar maximum, predicted to happen around 2024, with Aurora displays getting more frequent . It also means the lights will appear more intensely and vibrantly as we reach the cycle’s peak.

To reiterate, because the magical Aurora Borealis is an act of nature, it is difficult to predict where and when the lights will appear accurately. Indeed, because visibility depends on solar activity, it can be hard to make predictions more than two hours beforehand. While it’s possible to guess the number of sunspots, it’s impossible to know precisely when or how often the lights will show. You should plan to be flexible and able to set off quickly when Aurora hunting in Iceland.  

Although people commonly ask when the lights are most active, there’s no straightforward answer.

The sun sets at different times every month, meaning that darkness also falls at different times depending on the month. For example, it’s fully dark after 5 pm in December, whereas in September, it doesn’t become dark until after 9 pm. Due to the altitude, there can be further fluctuations in sunset times between the northern and southern parts of the country.

In addition, periods close to sunset and sunrise still have residual or appearing light in the skies that will prevent optimal viewing experiences.  

In short, you should always wait until it’s fully dark before trying to spot the Northern Lights. Of course, you can start driving toward the general area and grab dinner beforehand, but don’t set off with the expectation of seeing the lights until it’s completely dark.  

As already mentioned, you’ll have a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights the longer you stay in Iceland. With a shorter trip of, for example, two or three days, you may, of course, strike lucky. Unfortunately, you might be unlucky with the weather conditions or solar activity. 

Spending ten-plus days in Iceland during the Aurora season gives you the best opportunity to witness the fascinating phenomenon. There’s a high chance you’ll be able to admire the Northern Lights on at least one night of your stay. (Plus, there are many other excellent things to enjoy in Iceland, so it’s not as though you’re going to be sitting around bored, just waiting for lights to show!)

It’s now possible to predict the Earth’s geomagnetic activity via NASA’s weather stations in space. However, such predictions are typically less reliable than regular meteorological weather forecasts. 

Below in this article, you’ll find our forecast of the local cloud cover and the aurora conditions for a general overview of what to expect. This information comes directly from the Icelandic Met Office.

The map of Iceland shows the forecast for cloud cover. Green areas are cloudy and white areas have clear skies.

The spectacle of Aurora Borealis requires dark and partly clear skies. Move the slider below the cloud cover map to alter the date and time.

You can view the forecast three days in advance, but remember that the further you look, the less you can rely on the forecast. You’ll find the times for sunset and moonrise as well as the strength of solar activity. 

As detailed previously, the Kp index shows the predicted Aurora strength. In Iceland, the most common ratings are 3 and 4, indicating good chances of seeing bright lights on a clear night.  

Best Places for Northern Lights Hunting

There’s no specific top place to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. Almost anywhere with good sky visibility is a potentially great place to enjoy the Aurora Borealis. Avoid places with tall buildings, mountains, or anything else that could obstruct your view. 

Traveling around Iceland during the Aurora season gives you the best chances of being able to see the Northern Lights. Plus, you’ll also be able to enjoy many of Iceland’s other natural wonders.

Wherever you stay, you can see the lights if the conditions are right. However, if you stay in a city or town, you should head away from the light pollution and explore the countryside to maximize your light-hunting chances. 

If you stay in the countryside, you likely won’t need to drive anywhere. Simply step outside and gaze skywards. 

Don’t worry if you don’t have transportation—you can book a Northern Lights guided tour and trust locals to take you to the best spots.  

South Iceland is the most-visited part of the country. It’s also the most accessible area and the most famous part of Iceland. It’s also a good choice for people wanting to witness the lights in all their glory. And, if you don’t happen to catch the lights, you’ll still be able to enjoy many of Iceland’s well-known natural splendors, including Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park.  

The famous Snaefellsnes peninsula in West Iceland is a terrific option for travelers who want to experience remote countryside without going too far away from the capital city. Additionally, the peninsula is home to some of Iceland’s most unique natural features. There are plenty of charming hotels and guesthouses along the flat coastal areas, with little in the way to ruin the views of the night sky.  

The gorgeous Icelandic Highlands offer one of the most unique vantage points for seeing the Northern Lights. The rugged wilderness boasts some amazing places to be dazzled by the natural light show, including while soaking in hot springs like Kerlingarfjöll and Landmannalaugar. Although only accessible by guided tour, the experience is out of this world.   

North Iceland gets less precipitation than southern Iceland or around Reykjavik, so there’s more chance of a clear sky. Also, being further north, this region is closer to the Arctic Circle, which means longer hours of darkness over the winter. If solitude is what you seek, it’s tough to beat North Iceland.  

East Iceland is the country’s least-visited region. That certainly doesn’t mean that the area is lacking when it comes to things to see and do, though! If you love heating away from the tried-and-trodden track and enjoying authentic adventures, East Iceland is the perfect place to go Aurora hunting. 

Our Favourite Northern Lights Spots Around Iceland

While you can see the Northern Lights all around Iceland, we’ve listed some of our favorite places to enjoy the stunning lights. 

Thingvellir National Park on the Golden Circle route is a significant site when it comes to geology due to being the place where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet at the Silfra Drift. It’s also a historically important site, having been the place where the Icelandic Parliament sat between the 10th and 18th centuries. Full of natural beauty, the national park is also a top place to observe the dazzling Northern Lights. With no light pollution, you’ll often find perfectly clear skies over the park.  

Far from sources of light pollution, the stunning Jukulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is another brilliant place to admire the Aurora Borealis. Icebergs bob in the glacial lagoon, adding to the scenic wonder. If the lights appear, you’re sure to get the most magnificent photographs. 

Stokksnes Mountain is a picture-perfect destination for Aurora spotters in the southeast of Iceland. The beach acts like a mirror when the tide is low, reflecting the dancing lights for a spectacular sight. The outline of the mountains further adds to the awe-inspiring beauty. 

The Arctic Henge, located in northern Iceland, is one of the country’s most other-worldly destinations. Strangely shaped rocks capture the attention and make terrific photographs whether the Northern Lights appear or not. Although the rocks may look old, you’ll probably be surprised to know that it’s an eye-catching piece of modern art. 

The striking Kirkjufell Mountain is among the most-snapped landmarks in all of Iceland. The arrowhead mountain shot to fame when it was featured in the popular TV series, Game of Thrones. Waterfalls tumble down the rocks in front of the mountain, and the Northern Lights enhance the existing visual splendor.  

The Best Places to See the Aurora in Reykjavík

Although Iceland’s capital Reykjavik isn’t among the best places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights, that doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to see them in the city. For visitors with little time or who don’t wish to venture out of the city, there are a few places where you may get good views of the Aurora. 

In strong conditions, you may even be treated to a peek at the lights right in the heart of the city. For the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights around the capital, try to head to areas with less light pollution. Recommended areas include: 

If you’re in Reykjavik’s downtown and the Aurora Borealis lights up the sky, head to Harpa Concert Hall or the Sun Voyager sculpture. Located on the coast, it’s one of the easiest and closest places to get away from the city lights. 

However, this is only a good spot if the lights come from the north. With the ocean shimmering ahead of you, you’ll be able to gaze up at the lights in almost total darkness. If, on the other hand, the lights are coming from the south, the city lights will make Aurora seem less impressive.  

There’s a small peninsula on the outskirts of Reykjavik, and at the tip, you’ll find the scenic Grotta Lighthouse. There’s little light pollution, and you can enjoy 180-degree vistas. Locals and tourists flock to one of the most popular places around the capital for viewing the Aurora, hoping to catch a glimpse of the marvelous lights. 

Sometimes referred to as The Pearl, Perlan is one of the most famous museums in Reykjavik. Located atop a small tree-covered hill, the elevated position provides terrific vistas out over the city. Furthermore, the trees of Ösjkuhlíð Park help to block out light pollution somewhat, meaning you can better see the dazzling Northern Lights overhead. 

Although most of Reykjavik’s city parks have many trees, they generally still have a few clear spaces where you can see the sky. Away from the light pollution, they can be great places to enjoy the Northern Lights without having to travel too far outside the heart of the city.

Hljómskálagarður is just a short stroll from the city center, and you can reach Klambratún in a short walk of around 15 minutes. You’ll need a car or cab to reach the larger parks of Laugardalur and Elliðaárdalur, both around a 10 to 15 drive away.  

Hunting for the Aurora Borealis can take a fair few hours, so ensuring you are appropriately dressed and equipped is essential for remaining comfortable throughout the night. Keep in mind that you’ll be outdoors most of the time, and you’ll largely be inactive.

Although the nights aren’t super cold in September and October, wearing several layers of clothing is still recommended. The wind can make temperatures seem much colder than they actually are. 

From November to April, you’ll need to dress up warm. With nighttime temperatures plummeting to as low as -15°C (14°F), you could end up ill if you’re not dressed suitably for the conditions, not to mention downright cold and miserable! 

If you’re planning to go Aurora hunting in the winter, don’t forget to add these items to your packing list:  

• Long, warm, and weatherproof (wind and rain) jacket 
• Woollen underwear to keep you warm when standing around observing the lights  
• Sturdy boots with a rubber sole 
• Woollen socks, scarf, gloves, and hat, as well as any other accessories that will help to keep you warm outdoors (for example, ear muffs and balaclava) 
• Reusable hand warmers
• Snacks and a thermos of hot drink
• A tripod and remote shutter release (to reduce shake) for the best pictures
• Red-light torch (the red light won’t ruin your pictures) 
• Regular torch for walking in the dark
• Extra camera and phone batteries (batteries go flat much faster in cold weather) 
• High-visibility vests for children (so you can easily spot them in the dark)
• Electronics to keep kids entertained if they get bored

To make your Aurora hunting expeditions have higher chances of success, here are some more handy tips from locals: 

• Drive into the countryside to get away from the city lights
• Time your trip to avoid the full moon
• Go out looking for the lights each night of your stay in Iceland if possible
• Join an Aurora-hunting tour

According to locals, joining a guided tour is one of the best ways to increase your chances of seeing the mystical lights. Guides have many years of experience, diligently consult the forecasts, and know the best spots for the ultimate views. Plus, they have the vehicles and experience to drive along routes you may not feel comfortable doing alone. 

Getting amazing shots of the stunning Northern Lights can be quite tricky; it’s not as easy as you may believe.

You’ll be capturing the lights in the darkness, so you will need a longer exposure time. Ideally, you’ll use a DSLR camera with a tripod. Unfortunately, photos taken with a handheld camera won’t be all that good. 

Pack spare batteries if yours drain low quickly in the cold temperatures, and make sure you set up your tripod on stable ground. Use a wide-angle lens if possible, as this will capture a greater portion of the sky and also let in as much light as possible. 

If you want to snap a person in the darkness, light them up with a flashlight or headlamp. And make sure they stand still; otherwise, they will turn out blurry!

Make use of a camera’s timer function or a remote shutter release if possible. And keep in mind that a high ISO can result in grainy images. 

Receiving perfect snaps will be fabulous reminders of your exciting nights under the Northern Lights. You’ll be able to make your friends and followers a bit jealous when they scroll through your social media feed.     

If your pictures don’t turn out as you hope, try not to be too disappointed. After all, simply witnessing the incredible lights is a joy and gift—the experience and memories will be with you forever. 

Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to see the Aurora during your time in Iceland. It’s a natural occurrence—and nobody can control nature! 

Learn more about the Northern Lights at the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik . There’s an engaging multimedia exhibition, interesting interactive displays, and cool virtual reality glasses. 

Also, in the capital, the Perlan Museum teaches you more about the wondrous phenomena. Watch a 22-minute-long film to see some of the country’s gorgeous landscapes and discover loads of interesting information about the lights. 

Even if you are lucky to see the lights during your vacation, these two museums are still well worth a visit.   

You may well fall so in love with Iceland in general that you return home all set to book your return flight to experience more Icelandic marvels and do some more Aurora hunting! 

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When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

Updated: 4 days ago

What are the best months or the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

The Northern Lights or the Aurora Borealis appear, regularly, in Iceland from the middle of August through to the end of March. Any time outside these months, the Northern Lights do not appear, as the nights are short, and daylight dominates the sky. During these months, the Aurora Borealis appears almost everywhere in the country if the strength, or the Aurora level, is right and the skies are clear. So, you need to visit Iceland, during winter, to see the Northern Lights. That makes the winter the best season for seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland. But some months rather than others.

What are the best months and time in the evening to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

During August and September, nightfall occurs at approximately 9:00 p.m., causing the surroundings to turn dark. As the months roll by, the darkness creeps in earlier, starting from 7:00 p.m. in December and eventually at 5:00 p.m. From December 21st onwards, the night time starts to move back later in the evening until it reaches 9:30 p.m. again in March.

I have developed a keen interest in the Northern Lights, or the Aurora Borealis, and have been following their forecast for the past few years. I often travel to different locations near Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, and around the country to capture the beauty of this natural phenomenon through my camera lens. In my experience, the time between 9:00 p.m. and midnight is the best time to witness the Northern Lights. Specifically, the period between 9:00 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. is the most enjoyable and offers the best view. If the conditions are favorable, one can almost certainly get a glimpse of the Northern Lights, or even better, witness a spectacular show in the sky during this time.

If you are traveling to Iceland with the sole purpose of seeing the Northern Lights, it is recommended to stay up until 3:00 a.m. to make the most of your time. If you overlook the Northern Lights in the evening despite a favorable forecast, it is unlikely that you will be able to witness them after midnight.

Does the weather play an important role in the viewing of the Aurora Borealis?

A clear sky, preferably with a temperature slightly below zero degrees Celsius, is the optimal condition to see the Northern Lights. For photographers and for full enjoyment of this spectacular sight, a calm wind makes the night perfect, especially if you are by a lake where the lights reflect on the water, making the whole experience much more enjoyable. But Mother Nature does not take reservations for those who plan to see the Northern Lights; in Iceland, we are all at her mercy during winter. The weather in Iceland from November through February is often difficult; roads are often risky and hard to drive on, and sometimes, they are closed because they are packed with snow. On the other hand, a snowy day and landscape packed with snow can enhance the experience, as it always brings illumination and depth to the night. If the sky is gloomy and cloudy, you might as well find something else to do. It is, of course, impossible to see the Northern Lights under those conditions. If the wind is strong, it magnifies the cold temperature, and staying outside for half an hour, not to mention two to three hours, can become quite challenging.

How do we look for the Northern Lights in the sky?

When you are at a location that you have selected, and you are waiting for the lights to appear, you will not miss the Northern Lights if they actually emerge and put on a show. But, sometimes, you can see them, even if the strength is low. It usually starts with a small kind of thin green haze in the sky that develops into neon-green curving and moving lines in the sky. Sometimes, the strength is weak, and the Northern Lights appear as a green fog on the dark horizon. So, one thing that the search for the Aurora Borealis requires from you is patience . It is a waiting game that can bring a high reward because if they appear, the sight is breathtaking and even beyond breathtaking. Sometimes, the show is so strong and full of colors that the sky almost becomes intimidating, unreal, and mesmerizing.

What are the best places near Reykjavík and around Reykjavík to view the Northern Lights?

Although this magnificent phenomenon in the sky can be seen in Reykjavík, it is always much better to go outside the city, to a place where city lights don’t disturb the experience. As a rule of thumb, you need to be in a dark place to see the Northern Lights . But if you want to stay in Reykjavík, a good option is to walk the Sculpture and Shore Walk path. At a slow pace, you should walk the path from the City Center, by the shore to the east, all the way to Laugarnestangi at Laugarnes , where there is less light. The lighthouse by Grótta, in the neighboring town of Seltjarnarnes , is also a good spot. And if you have a car, the Kjalarnes district in the northern side of the bay in Reykjavík, by the mountain Esja is an excellent place to view the Aurora Borealis. There is a parking lot by the church. Here you can get a fabulous view of the Northern Lights and from this spot, you can see them dance over the city or over the mountain. Another place is at the lake Hvaleyrarvatn, in the town of Hafnarfjörður , where you can park at the west side of the lake. All these places have good parking lots and good space to walk away from any possible light. Also, they provide the spectacular surrounding required to enhance the experience of viewing the Northern Lights.

What are the other places near Reykjavík to view the Aurora Borealis?

It is also interesting to travel to a beautiful place, like lake Þingvallavatn by Þingvellir or Kleifarvatn lake near the south shore, to enhance the experience, if you want to spend more time to view this compelling phenomenon. At Þingvellir, a great place is to park by the campsite. At Kleyfarvatn , we prefer the parking lot by the small cliffs, on the west side of the lake. The car park at Grænavatn lake, near Kleifarvatn, is one of our favorite places. Another great spot is the lighthouse in Garður, on the Reykjanes peninsula. When selecting a place, remember that a vast space is better than a narrow place, or a place where you have a wide view in all directions. And all the places that we have mentioned here requires, at the least, a half an hour to an hour’s drive from Reykjavík.

What are the other interesting places around the country to see the Aurora Borealis?

As we have pointed out in the beginning of this article, the Northern Lights appear all around Iceland. But before you start your trip, you need to look at the forecast for Aurora strength and check if the skies are clear. One of the best places to look is the Icelandic Met Office Aurora forecast. And outside Reykjavík, we have a few favorite places with the same good conditions we mentioned above. Like a good parking lot, there are short trails around the area to widen the space in search of a dark place wide horizon to see every possible appearance in the sky; it is not too remote or difficult to visit and it serves as an interesting foreground and background, if photographing is your thing. In the West Region, our favorite is Hellnar at Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a small hamlet in a beautiful surrounding. In the Northern Region, both Hvammstangi village and Akureyri are great spots. At Hvammstangi, the parking lot by the camping site is great, and the old cemetery and church give the viewing a unique feeling. In the east, the town of Fáskrúðsfjörður is our favorite. Here the camping site and surrounding area also give excellent opportunities for walks in darker areas. And last but not least, in the Southern Region, is the iceberg lagoon, Jökulsárlón and the Dimond Beach by the shore, where a stroll will provide you with the rich experience of the Northern Lights.

How do we prepare for a viewing of the Northern Lights?

Don’t underestimate the preparation when you start your evening and night tour to see the Northern Lights. You should select a place and stick to that selection throughout the night. If the conditions are right, you are going to see the Northern Lights, and it does not necessarily increase your result to drive around. There are always hours between high displays of the Northern Lights and viewing them is always a waiting game. Understanding the time-consuming factor is one of the main premises when you head out to see the Aurora Borealis. Another one is driving to the spot and find a parking place in time. The best thing you can do is to arrive at the spot an hour or hour and a half before it gets dark and do a quick research at your options to walk around. Get familiar with the area and look for possible short paths that can lead you to darker spots with better views. It is also a good idea to have a flashlight in the pocket or a headlight on your head, to lighten the path, as it can be uncertain to walk in the dark. Because of the unpredictable weather for most of the year, you should always dress for a cold night. Packing yourself into warm clothes and good shoes while heading out to view the Aurora Borealis is always a good idea. Standing out in the cold for hours is difficult, so make sure that the clothes are warm.

Why travel to Iceland to see the Northern Lights?

Of all the places on the planet, Iceland is one of the best places to visit and see the Northern Lights. From here, the likelihood of actually seeing the Aurora Borealis is reasonably good. There are many places to select from, both around Reykjavík (the capital) and around the country. In the countryside, there are also a lot of places and not far apart It is easy to travel to Iceland from both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.

The show in the sky is often beyond spectacular and if everything else fails, there are a lot of other things you can do in Iceland, while you wait for the next opportunity. If you have a few days and you are determined to see the Northern Lights, the odds are that you will succeed, as you will most likely find a place somewhere where you can see the Aurora Borealis.

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The extreme dark of the Icelandic winter has a few perks. Between September and April, the people in Iceland are treated to a magnificent natural display: the phenomenon of aurora borealis, or what we commonly call the Northern Lights.

The Aurora Borealis takes its name from the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek word for the north wind, Boreas. From September to April, Iceland is a hotspot for this magnificent light show.

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to experience the Northern Lights.

On clear winter nights, sightseeing trips are organized around this spectacular—though fickle—natural phenomenon. The ideal location for sightings varies and excursion leaders are skilled in "hunting" the lights, finding locations where conditions are best for seeing them on any given night.

There are no guarantees that you will see the Northern Lights during your stay, but in most cases, sightings are greatly improved outside populated areas, especially away from the light pollution of the capital. A number of hotels in the countryside offer a special Northern Lights wake-up service. 

You need dark, clear skies and sightings are greatly improved outside populated areas

HOW TO SPOT THE NORTHERN LIGHTS - PATIENCE IS THE KEY

First things first: You need darkness and clear skies, or at least openings in the cloud cover, preferably towards North. If the weather cooperates, you are already halfway there. You can always check weather conditions, cloud coverage and Aurora activity on the  Icelandic Met Office Website  and also on the website  Auroraforecast.is

If clouds are in your favor, the second criterion is solar wind activity above normal. The northern lights can appear any time of the day or night, all year round. However, the activity is usually strongest around midnight and a few hours before and after.

When the activity is beginning, usually a green arc appears towards the north. The best guide for orientation on a starry night is the Polar star that shines in the true north direction from the Earth. The best way to find the Polar star is to find the constellation Ursa Major or Big Bear, which points to the Polar star. If you see the green arc, you have a good chance of seeing them move. Keep in mind that hunting for the northern lights sometimes takes a lot of patience, but those who wait are often greatly rewarded.

HOW TO TAKE A PHOTO OF THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

As far as equipment goes, the most important thing you can bring is a tripod and a cable release to avoid the dreaded shaken-photo syndrome. If you don't have a cable release, set your camera's self-timer to two or ten seconds' shutter delay, if available.

There is no single setting for your camera that ensures great captures, but if you have manual options, you are probably best served with experimenting with various combinations of ISO, aperture, and exposure settings. As a rule of thumb, ISO settings between 800 and 3200, aperture between f/2.8 and f/5.6, and shutter speed at between 15 seconds and 30 seconds have proven effective.

The Northern Lights are a spectacular sight

Different combinations may give very different results. Higher ISO settings will allow you to capture faster exposures but may also result in grainier images, for example. Note that shutter speeds of above 15 seconds will result in slight star movement. Wider angle lenses are usually more versatile in low-light settings, but longer lenses give you different options for compositions. Make sure that you remove all lens filters, as they may distort images. You will probably get the best results with manual settings for infinite focal length.

How to take a photo of the Northern lights with your smartphone

Thankfully, you don't need a high-end full-frame camera and expensive wide-angled lenses with 1.2 aperture—although those are excellent choices. Advancements in smartphone technology now allow us to capture the Northern Lights and other low-light scenes effectively. The settings are relatively easy, and the results can be stunning. Experiment and practice your setup before you get out in the field! The more you practice, the better (and faster) you'll get. Before heading out, familiarize yourself with your device's settings and practice; tweaking settings with cold fingers is less fun. Learn all about how to take a photo of the Northern Lights with a smartphone

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND?

The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter, between September and April, when dark and long nights have taken over from the bright summernights in Iceland. The Northern lights are said to be most active around the equinoxes in September and March, but the chances also improve mid winter by bringing more darkness - it simply gives you a larger window each day to witness them.

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Weather and climate

Everything you need to know about chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon where solar particles manifest as shimmering streaks of light in the sky. It’s one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever see.

Out of all the places to see the Northern Lights, Iceland is arguably the most popular destination. In fact, catching the Northern Lights in Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many travelers have on their bucket lists.

Want in on the action? We’ve rounded up the best spots for you to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik and across Iceland.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

Even though the Northern Lights are technically always there, the best time to see them is during winter between October and March. That’s when Iceland has its longest nights of the year. Naturally, this ups your chances to see the Northern Lights, especially if you try your luck between 5 p.m. and 2 a.m.

You’ll also want clear, cloudless skies and very dark nights (avoid full moons). But even then, there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to see the Northern Lights. It’s a bummer, we know. But you can always boost your chances by following Iceland’s daily Aurora Forecast —just plan your trips around their projections.

The best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

The Westfjords

Known for its enigmatic cliffs and beautiful shoreline, the Westfjords is a sparsely populated peninsula in Iceland’s northwestern corner. With little to no light pollution, it’s one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.

Bolafjall is the top destination in the Westfjords for a Northern Lights excursion. It’s a tall cliff located at the very tip of the peninsula where the solar winds are much stronger. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to see brighter and more vivid streaks in the sky.

You’ll also want to add Dynjandi , the largest waterfall in the Westfjords, to your list. Just imagine the beauty of the Northern Lights next to the cascading falls.

North Iceland

Akureyri is a picturesque port city surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Its remote location, close to the Arctic Circle, makes it one of the few settlements in Iceland where you can enjoy the Northern Lights.

Nicknamed the 'Waterfall of the Gods', Goðafoss is one of the key stops on Iceland's popular Diamond Circle road trip route. Glacial highland waters from the Skjálfandafljót river gush from a height of 40 feet around a 100-foot wide horseshoe-shaped basin.

Skagafjörður

If you only have time to squeeze in one location, we recommend Skagafjörður . Explore the vast pastures and deep gorges by day and catch the most amazing display of the Northern Lights after dark.

South Iceland

Jökulsárlón.

Jökulsárlón is a glacial lagoon in the southeast of Iceland. The shore is full of ice boulders that capture and reflect the glow of the Northern Lights for an even more magical experience.

Reynisfjara Beach

Reynisfjara is a famous black sand beach with giant basalt stacks rising out of the ocean. The Northern Lights dancing around basalt cliffs make for a truly dramatic show.

Seljavallalaug

Take a dip at Seljavallalaug , one of Iceland’s oldest open-air swimming pools (free of charge), open 24 hours a day. What could be better than soaking in the hot springs and catching the cosmic light show overhead?

In and around Reykjavik

Most travelers who visit Iceland will inevitably have to fly into Reykjavik. If the capital is your base, include these spots on your list to watch the Northern Lights in Reykjavik.

Grótta Lighthouse

Just a 10-minute drive from the city center, Grótta Lighthouse is one of the top locations to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik because of its remote location. The lighthouse is only accessible during low tide via a sandy bank, so make sure you check tide times before heading out.

Reykjavik’s city parks

Klambratún and Oskjuhlid are excellent spots as the trees in the area block out most of the city lights. If you want to relax in an outdoor thermal pool while you watch the skies, visit Laugardalur , a recreational space just east of the city center.

Best hotels to see the Northern Lights

Fancy admiring the Northern Lights from the comfort of your own hotel room? You’re in luck because there are quite a few hotels in Iceland that allow you to do exactly that.

Hotel Rangá

Hotel Rangá is about a two-hour drive south of Reykjavik. Its remote location allows you to enjoy the Northern Lights with minimal distraction, either from your own balcony or while soaking in an outdoor hot tub. What’s more, the hotel offers wake-up calls specifically for the Northern Lights.

Hotel Húsafell

A secluded resort located in the middle of the Icelandic wilderness, Hotel Húsafell is close to many natural wonders and vistas that Iceland is known for. During the day, you can explore the Langjökull glacier, ice caves, and more.

Hofsstaðir Country Hotel

Perched atop a verdant hill, Hofsstaðir Country Hotel in Skagafjörður offers stunning views of majestic fjords during the day and an intimate, front-row view of the Northern Lights at night. Book a room with a veranda for a private viewing of the lights show.

Reykjavik Domes

Glamping in Iceland sounds like an absolute dream, especially if you can catch the Northern Lights in the process. At Reykjavik Domes , that dream becomes a reality. This glamping experience features a number of luxurious dome-shaped tents with large windows that allow you to see the Northern Lights even while in bed.

Best ways to see the Northern Lights from Reykjavik

Northern Lights boat tours in Reykjavik

Sign up for a Northern Lights Cruise that takes you out to sea to view the Northern Lights. The boats depart the harbor at Reykjavik in the evening and head straight to Faxafloi Bay where they drop anchor.

If the weather is perfect and the seas are calm, you’ll be treated to an uninterrupted view of the Northern Lights. The best Northern Lights boat tours in Reykjavik usually cost between $70 and $90 per person based on the type of cruise or boat you choose.

Northern Lights land tours from Reykjavik

If you prefer guided excursions on land, we recommend joining a Superjeep tour from Reykjavik. Perfect for adventurers who prefer traveling in smaller groups, this tour allows you to reach some of the most remote locations in the region you wouldn’t otherwise be able to access.

Compared to boat tours, a super jeep tour is slightly more expensive, costing between $150 and $200 per person, but it’s worth the splurge.

Alternatively, you can join a Northern Lights minibus tour or the Northern Lights and Stargazing small group tour from Reykjavik.

Self-drive Northern Lights tour

Finally, if you have a valid driver’s license, you can rent a car and embark on an epic self-drive journey chasing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik but be careful of road conditions in winter. Car rentals cost between $40 and $60 a day, with gas costing around $7.50 per gallon.

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How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland: Best Viewing Spots, When To Go And MORE

Are you wondering how to see the northern lights in Iceland on your trip? You’ve come to the right place! For so many travelers, seeing Iceland’s aurora is a total #BucketListMoment.

And I want to help you make it happen! In this post, I’ll give you the necessary knowledge and tips so that you can experience the magic of the northern lights in Iceland for yourself. From technical tips on how to see them, to when to go and where to go, you’ve got everything you need for the best viewing experience possible in this guide. Table Of Contents

• The Science Behind The Northern Lights
• How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland: Factors That Affect Viewing

When To Go: The Best Time To See Northern Lights In Iceland

Finding the perfect spot: the best places to see northern lights in iceland, reykjavík northern lights: top 5 places.

• Further from Reykjavík: More Locations To See Iceland’s Aurora

Aurora Trackers Iceland

How to photograph northern lights, northern lights tours in iceland.

Get ready for a journey into Iceland’s aurora! ✨

Understanding the Northern Lights

Let’s dive into the world of the northern lights, and explore more about the science behind this magnificent natural phenomenon, as well as factors that affect viewing.

The Science Behind The Northern Lights 

Alright, a quick science lesson on the Northern Lights – because who doesn’t love a bit of science, am I right?

The mesmerizing northern nights start their journey from our life-giving star – the Sun. Our Sun periodically releases solar flares that head toward Earth as high-energy electrons. But our planet has its own defense mechanism – a geomagnetic field, acting as an invisible shield.

These solar flares hit the Earth’s magnetic field and start wrapping around our planet’s atmosphere. Then, they separate at the poles, creating these stunning lights in the process. That’s why you can only see them from the extreme hemispheres.

And here’s a fun tidbit for you – there’s a Southern counterpart to the northern lights, known as Aurora Australis. These lights can be seen from places like Antarctica, Australia, and New Zealand. So, no matter which hemisphere you’re in, you can catch a glimpse of these fantastic light shows. Pretty cool, huh? Now, let’s get into factors that affect viewing, so you can have the best chance possible at spotting these beauties! 

How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland: Factors That Affect Viewing 

There are really two main factors that affect being able to see the northern lights. 

• Light Pollution Avoid as much light pollution as possible. This means getting out of Reykjavík! Or any city you are in. The darker the area around you, the better. If you are in Reykjavík and don’t have a car to drive away from the city, Grótta Lighthouse is a great place to view the northern lights not far from Reykjavík and is accessible by bus. I’ve put more info on my favorite viewing spots below!
• Cloud Cover Cloud cover is the most important factor. The sun could be throwing huge flares for days, but if the clouds are heavy in the sky, there’s no chance you’ll catch a glimpse of the northern lights… Make sure to check the cloud cover forecast for the evening. I’ve listed a few websites below!

👉 JUMP to aurora checkers 👈

And then of course, you also have to take into account whether it’s the right time of the year…⬇️

So, let’s chat about the aurora season in Iceland!

Iceland’s northern lights season runs from the end of August until April, with the most intense colors in October and April. The tourist season in Iceland runs from May-August, and those are also the months with the most daylight! 

Therefore, visiting Iceland in winter definitely has its advantages!

If seeing the aurora is on your must-do list, then the best time to visit Iceland for northern lights would probably be the winter months from November to February. These dark months will give you the most opportunity to see this mesmerizing light show.

Just remember, if you visit Iceland during this time, there will also be limited daylight for exploring. It all depends on your priorities! For more pros and cons of each time of the year, read this guide to Iceland’s seasons. 

Whether you’re looking to see the northern lights in Reykjavík or you’re willing to travel a little more off the beaten path, you’ll be able to find a viewing spot on this list for you! Just note: you will need to get OUT of the city, so while these first options I’ve listed are close to Reykjavík, it’s not possible to see the aurora within the city’s confines. 

Here are three of the best places to see the Northern Lights near Reykjavík!

Grótta Lighthouse

The first viewing spot just outside Reykjavík is The Grótta Lighthouse on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. Here, you’ll find a relaxed spot where both locals and tourists gather to escape the city lights and get some insta-worthy shots of the aurora. So just remember, while it’s an easy, convenient spot not too far from downtown, you won’t exactly have the place to yourself!  

Bonus points: if you don’t have a car, The Grótta lighthouse is accessible by bus. Just take bus 11 from City Hall all the way to Lindargata Road (stop Hofgarðar). From there, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the lighthouse! You could also take a quick 10-minute taxi if you don’t mind paying a bit more!

Öskjuhlíð Forest near Perlan

If you’re up for a little drive, just around the corner from the city is the Öskjuhlíð Forest, right around Perlan. It’s a little further out, but hey, that’s part of the adventure, right? Plus, getting even further away from the city lights only going to improve your viewing experience. Trust me, it’s worth the mini road trip!

Elliðarárdalur

Next, we’re heading over to this lovely park, Elliðarárdalur – yeah, try saying that five times fast! 😂

This is a nature lover’s paradise: it’s a park with beautiful leafy trees, brimming with the sounds of running water. There is such a peaceful vibe to this place, it’s like a little oasis tucked right outside the city! It’s just far away enough from Reykjavík that you’ve got a clear sky and ample viewing opportunities. 

BONUS: Aurora Museum Reykjavík

While not technically a viewing spot, The Aurora Museum Reykjavík is a great way to take your northern lights knowledge further. This museum is located downtown and it’s super impressive – their motto is “Where the Northern Lights are always on display!” 

The museum has interesting information about the mythology and science of the northern lights, and of course, the photos are incredible! There’s even an amazing widescreen room where you can watch time-lapse video footage of the northern lights captured from all around Iceland.

Side effects of visiting may include an intense desire to hike to remote locations through Iceland in the dark and freezing cold just to become a professional northern lights photographer! 😂

Admission price: 1600 króna.

Further from Reykjavík: More Locations To See Iceland’s Aurora

If you have a car and don’t mind getting a little further outside the city, I have a few other two solid options for you to catch the northern lights in Iceland!

They’re not too far away, so just be sure to plan ahead, look at the northern lights forecast and you’ll be able to time it perfectly. 

This is a stunning 3,000-hector nature conservation area just outside of Reykjavík. Surrounded by volcanic hills, called Rauðhólar, and the beautiful Lake Elliðvatn, this is one of my favorite places to catch the lights! 

Reykjanes Peninsula

Another one of the best places to see the northern lights in Iceland is along the Reykjanes Peninsula. Sure, it’s a bit of a drive, but trust me, the epic light show you’ll witness once you’re there is so worth it. Some of my go-to spots are the Gardur Lighthouse and Kleifarvatn Lake. Absolutely jaw-dropping views, my friends, so have your cameras ready! 📸

Þingvellir National Park

And last but certainly not least when it comes to spots to catch the northern lights in Iceland is Þingvellir National Park . This isn’t just any park, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with some pretty incredible geological wonders!

Tucked far away from city light pollution, Þingvellir gives you fantastic viewing abilities when it comes to Iceland’s aurora.

While it’s never a *guarantee* that you’ll see the northern lights in Iceland, if you visit during the right time of year, and consistently check the aurora forecast in Iceland, your chances of spotting them are highly likely! Here are my favorite Aurora trackers and forecasting tools!

• Shows cloud cover
• Rating of how likely/intense they will be
• Breaks down kV activity in half-hour increments

These sites are going to be your best friend when trying to see the northern lights in Iceland!

Okay, so now that you know how to see the northern lights in Iceland, you want to be sure to capture a memorable photo! Here are the general rules:

• Long exposure time, i.e. 20 seconds
• Mid-range ISO. I like to keep it around 800 (this will be different depending on surrounding light pollution).
• Aperture between f/2.8 and f/5.6
• Keep the camera completely still. A tripod is a must for this. If you have a shutter release that would be extra helpful to minimize any blurring.

Get your camera ready and prepare to be amazed!

If you’re wondering how to see the northern lights in Iceland without chasing them around yourself, there are more guided options available. There are plenty of companies that offer Northern Lights tours, ready to do the heavy lifting for you! 💪

They’ll take care of the details – you’ll be collected right from where you’re staying, or from a pre-arranged meeting point. Then, they’ll whisk you away from the hustle and bustle of Reykjavík, steering you directly to the best spots to see the lights.

You don’t need to worry about finding the right location, just set yourself up at the spot they take you to and get ready to enjoy the show. These tours will guide you to prime viewing spots of the aurora, making your northern lights experience as easy as pie while you’re visiting Reykjavík. This is your hassle-free pass to one of nature’s greatest performances!

I hope this guide has given you everything you need for a successful and memorable northern lights adventure in Iceland!

Happy planning,

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The Ultimate Guide to Catching Northern Lights in Iceland: Best Time of Year Revealed!

Do you dream of witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland? If so, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to this beautiful country in search of this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. But when is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland? Keep on reading to find out!

• 1 Understanding the Northern Lights
• 2 Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
• 3 Other Factors to Consider
• 4 In Conclusion

Understanding the Northern Lights

Before we dive into the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, let’s first take a moment to understand what causes this stunning display of lights.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are caused by charged particles colliding with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere. These particles are created by solar flares and released from the sun’s corona. When they enter the Earth’s atmosphere, they collide with gas particles, and the energy from these collisions is released as light, resulting in the beautiful display of colors we know as the Northern Lights.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Now, let’s get to what you came here for: the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.

While the Northern Lights can be seen in Iceland from September to April, the best months to visit for optimal viewing are between October and March. This is because during these months, the nights are longer and darker, providing more opportunities to witness the spectacular lights.

That being said, no one can predict with absolute certainty when and where the Northern Lights will appear. There are, however, a few things you can do to increase your chances of seeing them:

• Check the forecast: There are various websites that provide daily Aurora forecasts based on factors such as solar activity and cloud coverage. Make sure to check these before planning your trip.
• Head away from light pollution: The darker the sky, the more visible the Northern Lights will be. Head away from city lights and find a spot with little to no light pollution for optimal viewing.
• Be patient: Seeing the Northern Lights is a waiting game. Be prepared to spend several hours outside in the cold, waiting for the lights to appear.

Other Factors to Consider

While the time of year is an important factor in viewing the Northern Lights in Iceland, there are other factors to consider as well:

• The weather: Cloudy nights can obstruct views of the Northern Lights, so make sure to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.
• The moon: A bright moon can also obstruct views of the Northern Lights. Plan your trip around the new moon if possible.
• Your location: The further north you go in Iceland, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

In Conclusion

There you have it, the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is between October and March. However, remember that viewing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed, and patience, dark skies, and good weather are all important factors to consider. With a bit of luck and planning, you just might witness this incredible natural phenomenon for yourself!

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Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland – Best Time and Places

Home | Northern Lights | Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland – Best Time and Places

Your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland are very high, thanks to an 8-month aurora season, long hours of darkness during the winter, and low light pollution throughout most of the island.

Iceland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world , which is why I travel to Iceland every September to photograph the aurora borealis. The incredible variety of spectacular landscapes – waterfalls, beaches, mountains, cliffs, rock formations, glaciers, and more – creates amazing photo opportunities for capturing the auroras hovering overhead.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland – Best Time and Places

Still, there’s no point in going aurora chasing without knowing the best time to visit Iceland for Northern Lights or the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland . This guide will tell you everything you need to know to be in the right place at the right time to see an unforgettable Iceland aurora display.

Ready to find out how to see the aurora borealis in Iceland ? Let’s get started!

Best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

Best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland Northern Lights tours

Best images of Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland Northern Lights calendar and aurora map

The Iceland Northern Lights season lasts from late August to mid-April, so you’ll have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights anytime during this period. The best time of year to see Northern Lights in Iceland , though, is during September and March. Solar activity increases during both months, creating a much higher chance of seeing an aurora display.

On top of that, September and March tend to have warmer weather and longer daylight hours than other fall and winter months, so you’ll feel more comfortable outside and be able to do and see more during the day. The weather is also usually less cloudy during these months, meaning better visibility for auroras.

Best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland by  Arturo Monetti

The Iceland aurora season mainly corresponds with fall and winter, the times of year that have the most hours of darkness at night and the best time to see the Northern Lights throughout much of the world. The longer and darker the nights are, the better the chances of seeing an aurora display.

During most of the spring and summer, it’s just not possible to see the aurora borealis in Iceland , since the days are long, and the nights don’t always get dark enough.

What is the best month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

These are the best months to see Northern Lights in Iceland :

• August : Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland in August is not a sure bet. If you travel at the end of the month, however, make sure you check the aurora forecast in Iceland – you may just get lucky.
• September : During September, the nights start to become longer. The weather is not as cold as in late autumn or winter, and solar activity is usually quite high. That’s why September is one of the best months to visit Iceland for Northern Lights .
• October : The first snow falls on most of the island, meaning clouds and low visibility for aurora displays. Solar activity is usually high during the first two weeks of the month, though, and the temperature is less cold than during the depths of winter.
• November : The ice and snow this month signal the beginning of winter in Iceland. The weather in November can be a bit unpredictable, but the number of hours of darkness increases, upping your chances of seeing an aurora display.
• December : The many hours of darkness and the small number of tourists on the island at this time of year make December a good month for aurora viewing in Iceland. Keep in mind that temperatures will be very cold, so prepare to bundle up.
• January : If you want to take Iceland Northern Lights pictures with snow, this is the best time to visit Iceland . The island is in the depths of the Arctic winter, so you’ll enjoy long, dark nights, perfect for seeing aurora displays.
• February : February is still quite cold and snowy, and many smaller waterfalls are frozen. Tourism starts to pick up, as more visitors come to photograph the Northern Lights in Iceland.
• March : Winter’s snow and ice can linger into March, but at the end of the month, the spring equinox brings increased solar activity and therefore excellent chances of aurora displays. There can be quite a few tourists on the island, but March is definitely one of the best months for Northern Lights in Iceland .
• April : The number of daylight hours increases drastically, and the island’s atmosphere changes dramatically with the spring thaw. You’ll be more likely to see an aurora display during the first half of April than during the second half.

In summary, these are the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland :

• Jökulsárlón : A glacial lagoon that’s a unique spot for seeing the aurora borealis in Iceland.
• Skógafoss : See the Northern Lights in Iceland over a stunning waterfall.
• Stokksnes : The best beach for viewing and photographing an Iceland aurora borealis.
• Kirkjufell : An iconic mountain that’s perfect for taking dramatic Iceland Northern Lights pictures.
• Hvítserkur : This incredible arched rock formation, also known as “The Rhino”, is a place unlike any other for Northern Lights viewing in Iceland.
• Goðafoss : The northern orientation of this waterfall means you’ll be at exactly the right angle to see a vivid aurora display.
• Valahnúkamöl : Striking cliffs by the sea where you can see the Northern Lights in total seclusion.
• Reykjavik : The best city in Iceland to see Northern Lights.

Ultimately, the entire island of Iceland is perfect for seeing the Northern Lights since it’s located so far north and most of the island is sparsely populated, meaning low light pollution. Even in Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, you can see the Northern Lights when the display is particularly large and intense.

1. Jökulsárlón

Visiting Jökulsárlón is unlike any other experience you’ll have in your life. This deep lagoon is full of floating icebergs and water from a nearby melting glacier, Breiðamerkurjökull. In fact, one of the best things to do in Iceland is to take this boat tour around the lake to see Breiðamerkurjökull up close.

1. Jökulsárlón by  Sara Delgado

Besides being a beautiful and unique natural feature, Jökulsárlón is also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland . Since Jökulsárlón is located in Vatnajökull National Park, it is in an out-of-the-way area that experiences almost no light pollution, so you should be able to see any aurora displays that occur quite clearly.

On top of that, seeing the bright colors of an Iceland aurora reflected in the lagoon and icebergs is both a breathtaking experience in person and a perfect shot for a Northern Lights photo.

2. Skógafoss

One of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls , Skógafoss is a top spot for seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland . Since the waterfall faces north, it’s in the perfect position for optimum aurora viewing since aurora displays usually start from a northerly direction. Even better, Skógafoss’s remote location near the Eyjafjallajökull volcano means no light pollution whatsoever.

The downside to Skógafoss being such a well-known spot for aurora viewing in Iceland is that many photographers come here when they know there’s a good chance for an aurora display. The crowds and camera flashes can be distracting and make it more difficult to see an aurora, so try a different location if you want a calmer Iceland Northern Lights viewing experience.

An upside, though, is that one of Iceland’s best Northern Lights hotels , Hotel Ranga , is located quite close to Skógafoss. This accommodation, which is also one of the best Northern Lights hotels in the world , is home to a stargazing observatory and offers aurora wake-up calls. The hotel even turns off all of its lights during an aurora display so that guests can have the best viewing experience possible.

3. Stokksnes

The landscape around the Vestrahorn Mountains, more popularly known as Stokksnes , combines the staggering beauty of towering mountains with the bleak splendor of a black sand beach and dunes. As with most of Iceland’s natural features, Stokksnes benefits from extremely low light pollution, which is ideal for aurora viewing.

3. Stokksnes by  Arturo Monetti

If you’re passionate about taking visually engaging Iceland Northern Lights pictures , you’ll enjoy seeing the stark contrast between the dark landscape below and the bright, dancing lights above.

Want to make your Iceland aurora chasing even easier? Stay nearby at the Aurora Cabins in Höfn. You’ll get a private cabin all to yourself, and on nights when you don’t feel like heading to Stokksnes, you’ll be able to watch aurora displays from the comfort of your cabin’s deck.

4. Kirkjufell

Iceland’s most iconic mountain, Kirkjufell , or “Church Mountain,” was named for its striking cylindrical shape, which is said to resemble a church. Whatever you think the mountain looks like, its northern orientation means that you’ll easily be able to see Iceland aurora displays when they occur, even if the displays are not particularly intense.

4. Kirkjufell by  Arturo Monetti

While Kirkjufell is a fine spot to watch the Northern Lights in Iceland , if you’re not a professional photographer, the lights from the road, the nearby parking lot, and other photographers’ camera flashes can make a photography session here a bit tricky. If you want to get great images of the Northern Lights in Iceland , try to visit Kirkjufell during a less popular time of year or night so you won’t be jockeying for space with other photographers.

One of the best places to stay in Iceland in this area is Kirkjufell Guesthouse and Apartments . This cozy accommodation is only a 12-minute walk away from the beach, and if there’s an aurora display, you won’t even have to leave the guesthouse area to get a good view.

5. Hvítserkur

Hvítserkur , an arched basalt rock formation in the sea that is also known as “The Rhino,” is yet another of the best places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights . This landmark faces north, giving you a high chance of seeing any burgeoning aurora displays.

Beyond that, the unique shape of this formation and its location in the sea will make for exceptional Northern Lights Iceland photos . Whether the aurora is framed by the arches or reflected in the sea, you won’t find a more magnificent view anywhere else.

6. Goðafoss

Escape the crowds at Skógafoss and head to an equally beautiful waterfall, Goðafoss , to see the Northern Lights in Iceland . Like many of the other best spots to see Northern Lights in Iceland , Goðafoss faces north, which means you’ll be looking in precisely the right direction to see an Iceland aurora display.

6. Goðafoss by  David Aguilar

Goðafoss is also one of the biggest waterfalls in Iceland, so its sheer width and height are breathtaking. In fact, if you watch an aurora display from Goðafoss, it may be difficult to decide which is more beautiful: the waterfall or the Northern Lights. Either way, you’re in for a visual treat.

A great place to stay in the area is Hotel Kjarnalundur in Akureyri. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area as well as a sauna and on-site restaurant.

7. Valahnúkamöl

At Valahnúkamöl , you’ll find everything from a rocky boulder beach and dramatic cliffs to striking sea stacks.

This stunning seaside location is conveniently located on the Reykjanes peninsula, near Keflavík (where the international airport is) and not too far from Reykjavik. It’s therefore easy to reach while being far enough away from Reykjavik that light pollution shouldn’t impact your Iceland aurora viewing experience.

If you plan on staying in the area, book a room at Hotel Berg by Keflavík Airport . Not only will you be close to the airport, but you’ll also get to relax in the rooftop pool and enjoy views of the nearby marina.

8. Reykjavik

Seeing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik is definitely possible but not a guarantee. The light pollution in Iceland’s capital city means that it’s not the best place for Iceland Northern Lights viewing. If an aurora display is particularly intense, however, there are certain places within and around the city where you should be able to see it.

The “Sun Voyager” sculpture is located only a few minutes away from the city center and makes an arresting foreground for Iceland Northern Lights photos . Make sure you look towards the north coast if there is a promising aurora forecast. Þúfa, a nearby outdoor art installation that also faces north, is another great place to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik .

Another one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik is the rotating glass restaurant, Perlan. This restaurant is in a prime location; it’s close enough to the city center that it’s convenient to get to but set above and apart from the rest of Reykjavik on Öskjuhlíð Hill so that it’s not as affected by light pollution.

Of course, you can always take a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik , which will take you out of the city to more remote spots with better chances for aurora viewing.

If you’ll be staying in Reykjavik for a few days, be sure to visit Reykjavik’s top attractions .

Booking an Iceland Northern Lights tour will undoubtedly take the guesswork out of your aurora chasing. Instead of having to figure out where to go at what time, an expert local guide will take care of all those calculations for you.

The most convenient way to aurora chase is to book a Northern Lights vacation package , but if you don’t have the time or energy for a multi-day tour, there are plenty of one-day Northern Lights tours in Iceland . Most tours depart from Reykjavik, so they’re easy to join. Our top picks for Iceland Northern Lights tours are:

• Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik
• Northern Lights Luxury Yacht Tour from Reykjavik
• Golden Circle and Northern Lights Combo Tour from Reykjavik
• Small-Group Premium Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik
• Northern Lights Tour with Hot Chocolate and Icelandic Pastries from Reykjavik

Our article on the best Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik has a more complete list of aurora tours if you want more options.

We also run a Northern Lights Photo Tour in Iceland every September since that’s the best time to see the aurora in Iceland . If you want to discover the best locations around Iceland for aurora viewing, chase and photograph the Northern Lights every night, and learn more about photography with a group of like-minded and passionate photographers, this is the tour for you. It’s sure to be an experience you’ll never forget!

Note: If you aren’t truly passionate about photography, regardless of your skills or level, this trip will not be the right fit for you. The tour centers on photography and is specifically aimed at avid photographers .

If you’ve traveled to see the Northern Lights in Iceland , you’ll probably want to photograph the aurora display, so you remember it forever. My guide to photographing the Northern Lights will give you tips on gear, composition, and camera settings so you can take the best possible Northern Lights Iceland photos .

To give you a basic idea of how to take great aurora pictures, below is a general outline of steps you can follow. If you need inspiration, this gallery contains all of the best images of Northern Lights in Iceland I have taken.

How to photograph the Northern Lights in Iceland

These are the steps you should follow to photograph the aurora borealis in Iceland :

• Prepare your gear . The most important thing you can do is make sure you have a good camera to photograph the Northern Lights .
• Mount your tripod .
• Set your focus so you get sharp images.
• Shoot in RAW if you want to edit your pictures later.
• Raise the ISO according to your camera sensor.
• Open up the aperture of your lens completely to capture more light and get better results.
• Set different shutter times .
• Think about composition when shooting the aurora with incredible Icelandic landscapes.

Finally, as I mentioned before, if you want to take images of the Northern Lights in Iceland with us next September, join our Iceland photography tour !

Below, you’ll find a chart of historical data for the Northern Lights in Iceland in 2021, with Reykjavik as a reference. 

*KP is a value related to the Aurora forecast and ranges from 0 to 9. To see the Northern Lights in Iceland , you usually need a KP of 3 or higher. You can find out more about aurora forecasting here .

Use this Iceland Northern Lights calendar as a reference, but keep in mind that KP is random and will vary from one year to the next. Also, the calendar above doesn’t show what the level of cloud cover was, a key factor in determining your chances of seeing an aurora display.

If you want to know the cloud and aurora forecast in Iceland for today, I recommend checking the Iceland Meteorological Office website .

Check the map below to find all the places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland . You can also download it from our article on tourist maps of Iceland .

The best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland are marked in green, while Northern Lights hotels in Iceland are marked in red.

I hope you enjoy your time in Iceland and you capture some incredible images of the aurora borealis! If you need more information or you have a concern, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below. Happy aurora chasing!

28 replies on “ Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland – Best Time and Places ”

Thanks for sharing, this is really useful for me who plan to bring both of my parents (age around 60 to 70) to Iceland to see the northern lights

So far it seems the best month to see northern lights and not in a winter season or low temperature season is in September? or could you recommend any other months suitable for elderly to visit Iceland?

Just worry elderly whose ages around 60 to 70 y.o may not be able to endure the temperature in Iceland as it would be too cold for them.. I am living in South East Asia, a tropical season throughout the year.

And any recommended private tour there?

Your reply will be much appreciated, thank you 🙂

There is no bad weather only bad clothing. Make sure your parents have the proper apparel and they will be find. 🙂

It’s very nice from you to take them to Iceland to see the Northern Lights. Regarding private tours. I recommend any of these Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik or if you are looking for packages, check these Iceland vacation packages.

Let me know if you have any questions, Ascen

Great website! Kudos! Very informative and beautiful photos. Planning to go in February next year for Aurora and much more that the island has to offer.

February is a great month for Northern Lights. I hope you are lucky and see this wonderful phenomenon.

Hi, I am planning to travel to Iceland in ney year from 2nd to 7th of January. Is it possible to see auroras that time in new year ?

It’s, just check the Aurora and weather forecast. Wish you good luck in your Northern Lights experience!

I’m planning to visit Iceland first week of December 2019 and wish to see the NL. I’m not a professional photographer but know quite a bit. I’m trying my luck and hope to capture good ones, if I’m lucky. I’ve read your tips on taking pictures and have noted them down. If I’m not lucky enough, I’ll be joining you in September. Hope you have a slot for me. Than you for your detailed article. Very much appreciated.

Hi Aileen, I hope you’re lucky with the solar activity and the weather and you can shoot some nice Aurora images.

Technically it’s a bit challenging, but if you follow the steps and tips of this guide you should be fine.

You’re always welcome to join our Iceland Northern Lights Photo Tour next September 😉

Statically what is your opinion on the best town to visit at least a few day to see the NL’s mid to late September . That will be the main attraction for me , so I’m ok with anywhere for a few days for an attempt to catch a view and then will head out to other towns to take in sights .

If you want to see the NL it is better if you go outside any town because of the light pollution. However, from Reykjavik, there are many tours to see Northern Lights.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Planning to have trip to island to see the attractions on March 2020. This is my first time to visit Iceland. Would you please give me advices where to live I order to see the most beautiful nature wonders such as Blueand northern light?

I recommend you to stay in one of the best northern lights hotels in Iceland to enjoy this phenomenon.

Here you can check the best places to visit in Iceland that shouldn’t miss on your trip.

Let me know if you have any question 🙂

I am planning for Jan or March 2020 to south of Iceland to see Northen Lights, interested with Photogenic places. Also seems, March will be crowded. Which are all the best places to visit ? Do I need to take special clothes if I want to go by Jan 2020 ?

Best Regards, Sasikumar S

Hi Sasikumar,

March is not too crowded compared to the high season (April-Sept), so you should be fine 😉

Statistically, March is also one of the best months to see Northern Lights in Iceland (better than Jan), and it’s usually less cold, so if it’s your first in Iceland I’d probably suggest planning your trip in March.

I wish you all the best in your Northern Lights chasing experience!

planning a trip in 2020 to Iceland to see the lights what will the best month? from what I read will it be late September? have time to plan so how long can we wait to book our trip to Iceland thank you

Statistically, the end of September and March are the months with more Northern Lights nights per year in Iceland. If you prefer warmer weather and see beautiful colors during the day, then the end of September could be the best bet for you.

Have a nice trip!

Hi I am planning a trip from 10th October to 17th October I am really confused if should go to Tromso and Abisko or go to Iceland Can you recommend which one should i pick

Hi Chitranshu,

you can see Northern Lights in all the places you mention.

If your goal is merely seeing Northern Lights, I’d probably pick Tromso or Iceland.

All the best chasing the Aurora!

I’m in the planning stages of a trip to Iceland either 2020 or 2021– my bucket list extending my comfort zone in the cold nights of winter! But a passion to see this phenomenon. I will surely be booking one of your tours, as photographers. Yes, we have the gear.

My question: How do I coordinate this with a vacation package to minimize the cost of air travel and hotel expenses? Will we need to rent a car?

Hi Mary and David,

Thanks for your message!

I left you a private message with more information 😉

Hi, Planning a visit in 3rd week of October, around the 19th/20th. Is that a good time to see the lights? thanks!

October is a very good period for seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland, so if there are clear skies, make sure you check the Aurora forecast every day.

All the best chasing the Aurora in Iceland! 😉

Traveling to Iceland next week. Do I have any chance to see the Northern Lights in Iceland in July?

Thanks and awesome pictures btw Karl

I don’t think so. It’s never get dark in July in Iceland.

You should try from September’s.

fantastic resource, thank you so much.

We’re coming from the US Oct 13-16 for 3 nights. Should we set the expectation that we need to leave one person up all night to look for the NL’s? Or are there certain times of the overnight period that are more successful for viewing?

Northern Lights do not depend on the time so any time that is dark and with a high KP will be ok. I would suggest download one of the Northern Lights alarm apps that we recommend on our guide to photographing the Northern Lights so you can know if the KP suddently increase.

Let me know if you have any other question.

Hi Where planning to come on march 20 to 23 2020 we want to buy a tour to see northen lights where we can buy?

Hi Virginia,

I would book this tour this week since there is a huge discount!

If you miss that deal I would book this tour.

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GET THE ULTIMATE free GUIDE TO PHOTOGRAPHING The Northern Lights

• Best time and places
• Camera gear
• Best settings
• Aurora composition
• Other tips and tricks

Northern Lights in Iceland: How, When & Where to See Auroras (+Best Tours)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

Are you thinking of visiting Iceland in winter and wondering where and how to see the Northern Lights in Iceland? This guide should answer all your questions: best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, best places & top tips on how to actually see them. Find out!

I run a Facebook group for Iceland and Scandinavia travel and it always amazes me how often this question gets asked by people who are planning a winter trip to Iceland. I also get aurora related questions on the blog all the time…

So in this article, I bundled up all those frequently asked questions about seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland and our answers to them. Where, when, and how to see the Northern Lights in Iceland … No scientific explanations, but simple tips for tourists who simply want to see auroras.

Below, you’ll find answers to all the FAQs we get about the Northern Lights. We also share all our top tips for seeing Aurora Borealis in Iceland. We also included a section with the best Northern Lights tours in Iceland , photography tips, and what to wear so that you can truly enjoy the experience.

TIP: While seeing the Northern Lights is a real bucket-list experience, try not to focus on it as the sole purpose of your trip. There is so much to see and do in Iceland , including so many other great winter activities , such as snowmobiling, glacier hiking , ice caves, etc.

So make sure to create a really nice Iceland winter itinerary for your trip, so that you have a wonderful time either way. And if you get to see the auroras, then it will be just the cherry on top.

Good to know: All the aurora pictures in this article are mine and taken during several trips to Iceland. These are real images of what the Northern Lights in Iceland can look like and what you are most likely to see.

This should give you a better idea of what you can expect in reality, which is usually very different than the picture-perfect aurora displays at the most scenic locations that you see in the travel brochures. Very different, indeed, but still amazing.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

You can see Northern Lights in Iceland from the (very) end of August until mid-April. However, the best time to see auroras in Iceland is between September and March . You need darkness in order to see the Northern Lights and for that, the end of August is often too early and by mid-April, the nights don’t get dark enough anymore.

There is not one specific month that’s better for auroras than the other. It’s a natural phenomenon and it remains a question of luck. If you look purely at solar activity, then the prime time for seeing the Northern Lights is during the Equinox, which is the last two weeks of September and the second and third week of March. However, it’s never guaranteed and so much also depends on the weather.

The most spectacular aurora display I have ever seen was in Iceland in November. And the ones I saw in September were nothing compared to that. So you really never know.

Can you see Northern Lights in Iceland in summer?

No, you cannot see the Northern Lights in Iceland in May, June, July, and the biggest part of August.

It just doesn’t get dark enough in the summer months. Summer is the season for the Midnight Sun!

The very end of August is the earliest when you can expect to see auroras in Iceland, and even then, your chances are really low.

Where can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

You need three factors in order to see auroras: darkness, (relatively) clear skies, and aurora activity. If the conditions are right, you can see the Northern Lights anywhere in Iceland. There is no place that’s better than another and you really cannot predict this in advance!

That being said, your chances to see auroras are always higher outside the cities where there is little to no light pollution.

But as long as it’s dark, there are not too many clouds, and aurora activity is high enough, you can see the Northern Lights anywhere. If aurora activity is really high, you can even see the Northern Lights in downtown Reykjavik.

Every time someone asks which hotel to book for Northern Lights or where and when to go exactly, it makes me smile. Because, well, it’s like asking where to see a rainbow. Except that you can in fact predict the timing of some rainbows at the waterfalls, whereas you really cannot predict where and when the Northern Lights will appear.

Best hotels for Northern Lights in Iceland

As already said before, it’s really impossible to say where you should stay or which hotels are best for seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland. Auroras are a natural phenomenon, furthermore so much depends on the weather.

So if you see a list of the best hotels to stay for the Northern Lights in Iceland, take it with a grain of salt. They might be amazing hotels and have beautiful remote locations, but they cannot guarantee that you will see auroras. Nobody can.

That being said, when planning your Iceland winter trip itinerary and looking for hotels, try to pick the ones that are somewhat further away from towns. The darker it is near the hotel, the easier it will be to see auroras right there, without having to walk or take a car.

And because our readers keep on asking, below, you can find some specific hotel suggestions for the Northern Lights viewing. These are mostly hotels along the South Coast of Iceland because driving the entire Ring Road is usually not the best idea in the darkest winter months. These are just some hotels where you could stay during your winter trip and where the surroundings are usually dark enough for auroras. The rest is luck and persistence to actually go outside and wait.

Here are some nice hotels to see Northern Lights in Iceland:

• Hotel Ranga . Beautiful hotel in Hella, along the South Coast.
• Glacier View Guesthouse . A lovely small hotel in Hrifunes, between Vik and Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
• Magma Hotel . Nice hotel in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, between Vik and Jokulsarlon.
• Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon . Most beautiful hotel in the Jokulsarlon area.
• Hali Country Hotel . Great location-price-quality hotel near Jokulsarlon.
• Fosshotel Vatnajökull . Another excellent option not too far from Jokulsarlon.
• Úthlíd Cottages . A nice budget-friendly option along the Golden Circle.
• Fosshotel Hellnar . One of the best places to stay on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula .
• Lighthouse Inn . Simple hotel with a nice location in Gardur, on Reykjanes Peninsula , not too far from Keflavik airport.

Once again, note that these are just a few examples. Furthermore, we only chose accommodations that are quite easy to get to and are located in the most popular areas that you can visit in winter. There are many more good places to stay for the Northern Lights in Iceland, but seeing them is never guaranteed.

READ ALSO: Best Places to Stay in Reykjavik

Are the Northern Lights only green in the pictures?

No, auroras are not just green in the pictures and you can really see them with your own eyes. However, it is also true that weak auroras are not visible to the naked eye and only look green in the pictures.

But if you are lucky to witness a strong Northern Lights display, you will see the most phenomenal light show with all shades of green. Sometimes, auroras can also color red or purple. It’s magical!

How to increase your chances of seeing Aurora in Iceland

Here are some tips on how to increase your chances of seeing auroras in Iceland:

• Travel to Iceland between September and March .
• Plan a longer trip . The longer you stay in Iceland, the more chance that the weather conditions and aurora activity will be favorable.
• Stay in hotels and accommodations outside of towns , so that you have almost no light pollution.
• Check the aurora forecast every day. We recommend the official website of the Icelandic Meteorological Office . You can also install one of the many Icelandic aurora alert apps.
• If aurora activity is at least 3-4 and you have a possibility to do so safely, drive to a place where there are no cloud s that night.
• Go outside and wait! This is probably the most important tip and one where most people fail. Of course, you might get lucky and see auroras outside your hotel just after dinner. But this hardly ever happens. Most of the time, you really have to make an effort. And yes, it’s not going to be easy to stay up and spend hours outside every night. But if the aurora forecast is good and there are no clouds, you really should go outside and just wait.
• If you are staying in Reykjavik , then you should really consider taking an organized tour (more info below). Tours always go looking for the best places for that specific night; places far away from light pollution and where there are no clouds.

What to wear for aurora hunting in Iceland

What to wear for aurora hunting will depend a bit on the month when you visit Iceland. If you are looking for auroras in Iceland in September , you might be ok with a light jacket and a sweater. Whereas in the middle of the winter, you might need to bundle up using every single layer that you have packed (and still be cold)… In general, expect that it will be cold. Very cold.

I recommend overdressing when planning to go aurora hunting – always dress warmer than you think you’ll need. The wind is usually so strong in Iceland that it will feel much colder than the weather forecast might make you think. Also, waiting for auroras means that you sometimes stand still for long periods of time. You’ll quickly get colder than you anticipated.

To give you an idea, here is what I always wear when chasing auroras during the cold winter nights in Iceland:

• Thermal merino wool underwear (shirt and leggings from Icebreaker ).
• At least two sweaters (fleece is ok as one of the layers, but wool is a must!). Once, I even wore 4 sweaters over each other and it was still cold.
• A warm wind- and waterproof winter jacket or parka.
• Very thick windproof ski pants.
• One or two pairs of wool socks.
• Very warm winter boots (I own these UGG boots . More suggestions – best winter boots for travel ).
• Two pairs of gloves (thin gloves ones for photography and Goretex mittens to wear over the thin ones).
• Warm wind-proof winter hat with ear flaps (something like this isn’t exaggerated).
• A polar buff and a warm scarf or two warm buffs over each other (something like this ).

READ ALSO: What to Wear and What to Pack for Iceland in Winter

Best Iceland Northern Lights tours

There are many Northern Lights tours in Iceland and most of them run from Reykjavik. You can choose between big-bus tours, small-group tours, or private tours. In addition, you can also opt for aurora tours by boat or by super-jeep.

Here you can find the complete selection of aurora tours on GetYourGuide or on Viator . We do not recommend booking with suppliers directly, because their cancelation policy is usually not as flexible. Furthermore, if something goes wrong, it’s practically impossible to get your money back.

We recommend GetYourGuide as the very best website for any tour bookings. They have the most flexible cancelation policy and excellent customer service.

TIP: Some tours offer a free retry if you don’t get to see auroras on the first day. So it’s best to plan your tours at the beginning of the trip. That way, if you don’t get to see them and your tour offers this possibility, you can still try to reschedule for later.

Here are some of the best Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik:

• Bus tour . This has been the best-rated big bus Northern Lights tour in Iceland for several years. It also includes a free ticket to the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik. Furthermore, if you don’t see auroras on the first day, you get a free retry. This tour is much cheaper than minibus tours.
• Minibus tour . This is one of the best price-quality aurora tours from Reykjavik for those who prefer to go with a smaller group.
• Guided tour with photos . This tour includes warm drinks, blankets, and free pictures that your guides take of the Northern Lights you see that evening.
• Luxury yacht tour.  This boat tour is very popular, but you should know that it can get really cold and bumpy on the water. On the other hand, you can stay inside the luxury boat and only come outside when there is something to see. It’s also very difficult to take good pictures of the Northern Lights from a moving boat, but if you are looking for an amazing experience rather than documenting it, then this is a very nice option. And if you don’t get to see auroras, at least you see some nice scenery and have a pleasant relaxing evening.

READ ALSO: Best Winter Tours in Iceland

An alternative way to see Northern Lights in Iceland

If you are visiting Iceland in summer or if the weather turns out really bad and you don’t get a chance to see the Northern Lights in real life, we recommend that you pay a visit to the Perlan Museum in Reykjavik .

Among other things, you’ll be able to see the Perlan Arora Show, which is almost as good as the real thing. It’s very well done and is absolutely impressive!

I have seen auroras in Iceland and Norway multiple times, but I still found this aurora show worth a visit.

LEARN MORE: Perlan Museum in Reykjavik & Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

How to photograph the Northern Lights

Northern Lights photography is a bit tricky. First, it’s dark and very cold. Also, if you are lucky to see a really good display, the auroras will be moving and changing intensity all the time. And finally, most tourists only get to see auroras once or twice and don’t have much chance to practice or perfect their aurora photography skills. Often, you’ll be glad if you have one chance!

So if you want to try to take some pictures of the Northern Lights, you have to prepare in advance! And no, you don’t have to be a professional photographer, but it definitely helps to know some basic tips and camera settings to start with.

We have compiled some of our best tips and suggestions for aurora photography for beginners in a separate guide. Click on the link below to read all about it.

LEARN MORE: Northern Lights Photography Tips

To summarize, here are some of the most asked questions in regard to seeing auroras in Iceland:

The best months to see the Northern Lights in Iceland are between September and March. That’s when the nights are long and dark enough for viewing auroras.

Northern Lights displays can last for just a few seconds, but they can also last for several hours. I have seen aurora displays that lasted no longer than 5 seconds, but I have also seen magnificent aurora shows that lasted several hours. Sometimes, they stop but then reappear again and the show can go on for hours.

Yes, it’s possible to see Northern Lights in Reykjavik. If the aurora display is very strong, you can sometimes see it despite the lights of the city (I have even seen them from my hotel window in Reykjavik). That being said, your chances are always higher in the darker places, a bit outside the city center. The area around Grótta Island Lighthouse is one of the best places to see auroras in Reykjavik.

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights even if there is a full moon. If the auroras are weak, then the strong moonlight might make it more difficult to see them. But if auroras are strong, it’s definitely possible. Once, I saw a magnificent aurora show that lasted more than 3 hours under the full moon.

If the conditions are right, you can see the Northern Lights EVERYWHERE in Iceland. There is not one place or region of Iceland that’s better for viewing auroras than another.

If you are visiting Iceland between September and October, there is always a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights. However, auroras are a natural phenomenon and you need clear skies in order to see them, so you really cannot plan or predict it in advance.

While Iceland is a very good place to see the Northern Lights, it’s not the very best place in the world. Because of its location directly on the Aurora Ring, the Tromsø area in Norway is considered one of the very best places to see the Northern Lights in the world. There, you can see auroras even if the activity is very low and the chances for clear skies are higher. More information – Northern Lights in Tromso .

More tips for your winter trip to Iceland:

• Useful info: Tips for Visiting Iceland in Winter
• Bucket list: Best Things to Do in Iceland in Winter
• Good to know:   Iceland Travel Tips
• Must-read: Driving in Iceland in Winter
• Packing:  What to Wear in Iceland in Winter
• Itinerary:  The Best Iceland Winter Itinerary & 1 Day in Reykjavik
• Where to stay:  Where to Stay in Iceland & Where to Stay in Reykjavik
• Airport transfers:  How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
• Budget:  How Expensive is Iceland (& How to Save Money)
• Tours: Best Winter Tours from Reykjavik

READ ALSO: Best Places to See on the South Coast of Iceland

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Lindsey Wilson-Willis

Monday 6th of November 2023

Hi there. Thanks for the article. Really helpful. We are in Reykjavik tonight only. Where will be best to try and see the NLs. Thank you,

@Jurga, we have a car…. Are you able to recommend a ‘good chance’ destination? Thanks again. Lindsey

Hi Lindsey, I see on the aurora forecast map that cloud coverage doesn't look great for Reykjavik tonight, but there are some openings nearby, so maybe you have a chance. Going on a tour (by bus or boat) would increase your chances. But if you rather stay in the city, then it's best to go to the darkest waterfront areas. For example, to Grótta Island Lighthouse, which is located a bit outside of the center in the area that has less light pollution. Good luck!

Monday 26th of December 2022

Great article! However, our travel plans put us to arrive April 18th and it seems most of the tours stop April 15th...can you recommend a good way to try and see them without a tour? Would it just be to rent a car and drive somewhere?

Tuesday 27th of December 2022

Hi Kelly, most tours stop because it becomes too light at that time of the year and the chances of seeing auroras are really low. Even April 15 is probably already stretched. That being said, you can always see how the conditions are, and if it’s dark enough and there is a strong aurora activity, just go outside and wait. But it has to be really dark so it helps if you’re not in the middle of the city. You can download some aurora apps and keep an eye on what they predict, but don’t count on it at that time of the year.

Angela Hunter

Friday 17th of December 2021

Beautiful shots of the light show, thank you so much for sharing them. I didn’t know that some of the light is only seen for a few seconds.

I can’t wait until the airline restrictions are lifted. I would be there in a minute!

Monday 20th of December 2021

Hi Angela, yes, auroras are quite unpredictable and you never really know what 'show' you're going to get. Hope you can experience it one day!

Tuesday 24th of August 2021

I teach - so very limited in when I can travel to Iceland. If I am traveling in early August, and go pretty North (like porshofn or Raudanes Point), and ensure that I am at that point during the new moon. What are the chances of seeing Northern Lights?

Wednesday 25th of August 2021

@Jurga, thank you so much for your answer! I think this will then just be a hiking/waterfalls hike.

I teach college so not as many days off and my spouse is so low on the totem pole at their job that taking days off around holidays os not happening. So we will have to plan something else for northern lights. Maybe Norway :-)

Hi Sally, unfortunately, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights anywhere in early August are pretty much 0. It just doesn't get dark enough yet up North. The earliest you could hope to see them is from approximately the last week of August. Also, in summer, it's actually lighter the further north you go. So going to the northernmost point in Iceland in early August would just give you even more daylight than staying in Reykjavik (not that any of that matters much because it simply doesn't get dark at night at that time of the year). Having said all this, we travel with kids and can also only travel during school holidays. Still, we have quite a few holidays that fall between September and March (potentially early April), so if you have any vacations during that time of the year, it would be a much better chance for auroras. On the other hand, Iceland is also amazing in early August and well worth a trip even though you won't see auroras (but can witness the midnight sun). It's just a totally different experience traveling there in summer or in winter.

Iceland is open for travel. Check volcano updates here .

Best Time and Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland - 2024 Update

What is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

• Best time to see
• Northern Lights year-round
• Best places to see
• Northern Lights each month

Recommended Tours

Related blog posts.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is one of the most memorable experiences. Check out the best time and places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland!

The best time of the year to see the Northern Lights in Iceland  is between September and April. It is when the skies are dark enough for them to be visible. The daylight lasts for only about 4-5 hours during midwinter which provides a lot of opportunities for Northern Lights views.

The best time of the day to see the Northern Lights is around midnight – that’s when the sky is the darkest. That’s why most Northern Lights tours leave at either 20:30 (8:30 p.m.) or 21:30 (9:30 p.m.), depending on the season.

To get the best chances at seeing the Northern Lights, check out the aurora forecast . The main factors for them to appear are high solar activity and clear skies, and it shows that specifically.

Is it possible to see Northern Lights year-round?

Even though technically Northern Lights are present for a bigger part of the year, there’s simply not enough darkness for them to be seen during the summer months, from May to late August. So, to answer this question, it is very unlikely that you’ll see the Northern Lights during the summer. To get the best chance at seeing them, pick a winter month from September to April.

What are the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

Iceland has plenty of amazing places to watch the Northern Lights from. Here are a few of them:

Westfjords and North Iceland

Westfjords and North of Iceland have longer hours of darkness which means more chances to see the Northern Lights. It is also farther from Reykjavik and the city lights, and its remoteness also offers great conditions to spot the beautiful auroras.

Kirkjufell mountain is a scenic location to watch Northern Lights in Iceland

The only place we’d advise avoiding is Akureyri, which is the second-largest city in Iceland. The light pollution might make it difficult to see the Northern Lights in the city.

To get the best chances at seeing the Northern Lights, check out these North West Iceland tours :

2-Day Tour to Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Borgarfjörður Fjord

4 Day Northern Lights, Snaefellsnes & Glacier Lagoon

Vik and south iceland.

Vík is a charming fishing village located on the south shore of Iceland. It has numerous famous attractions, including Reynisfjara black sand beach with basalt columns of Reynisdrangar. The dramatic, sometimes unpredictable, waves of this beach are the main attraction.

Northern Lights over Skogafoss waterfall in South of Iceland

Not far from Vik, further along, the Ring Road is yet another attraction. Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon attracts tourists from all around the world. Watching the Northern Lights dancing over the iceberg-filled lagoon is an unforgettable experience!

Check out these popular South Coast tours :

2 Day South Coast, Ice Cave, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour

5 Day South Coast & Northern Lights Tour

Best places close to reykjavik.

There are a lot of places to catch beautiful auroras not far from Reykjavik. One of these places is Thingvellir National Park , located on the Golden Circle route . Admire the beautiful lights while standing in the national park filled with history and incredible rock formations.

Hvalfjörður , a scenic fjord located in the west of Iceland, is another popular place to go when searching for the Northern Lights. The fjord is surrounded by beautiful landscapes with majestic mountains and is a perfect place to admire the Northern Lights.

Reykjavík is a melting pot for Northern Lights tours. With many tours departing captial, including our Ice Cave and Northern Lights tour , you can combine more than one of Iceland's famous experiences in a day.

Catch the Northern Lights with these day tours from Reykjavik :

Northern Lights Explorer

Magical Auroras - Northern Lights Tour

Golden Circle Aurora Surprise

Want to watch Northern Lights straight out of your window? Check out the best hotels in Iceland for Northern Lights !

Seeing the Northern Lights each month

January is a perfect time for seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland. One of the reasons is fewer daylight hours, which allows a bigger window in a day to see them. The daylight on the 1st of January is around 4.5 hours and by the end of the month is around 7 hours.

You can usually see the aurora borealis even from Reykjavik, but the best chance to see them is outside the city and away from light pollution. One of the best places to watch the Northern Lights show is Thingvellir National Park , located just a short drive away from Reykjavik. Here you will be able to witness this amazing natural phenomenon surrounded by the historic site and the picturesque cliffs.

As a winter month, February is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights. Early sunset assures that you’ll get plenty of time to hunt for magnificent aurora borealis! At the beginning of February, we’re getting around 7 hours of daylight while by the end of the month it’s already hours. 

The Northern Lights tend to be especially visible in February, compared to other winter months. On very clear nights, it is possible to see them even in the capital, but the best chances are in the countryside. Head out of the city into a more remote location to see them. Don’t have a car? No worries! Just book a Northern Lights tour , and we’ll take you to the best spot to see the show.

In March, it is still possible to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. Though it is the last full month when they are visible. When the sky is clear and dark, and there’s a sufficient amount of solar activity – that’s when the chances of seeing them are at the highest.

The best way of seeing the aurora borealis is by booking a Northern Lights tour . A professional Northern Lights guide will know the right spots to catch them. If you want an even more unique experience, consider picking up the Northern Lights Boat tour .

There’s a chance to see the Northern Lights in April if it's early this month. During this month, the daylight hours extend to 13.5 hours at the beginning of the month and more than 16.5 hours by the end of April. A shorter period of darkness leaves fewer Northern Lights hunting opportunities. 

The best way to see the Northern Lights is to head into the countryside, away from the light pollution. Join the Northern Lights with a Super Jeep tour to have the most private and comfortable experience.

Unfortunately, May is not the best time to see the Northern Lights. Since aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon, dependent on solar activity and clear skies, there’s simply not enough darkness to see the Northern Lights in May.

Even though the Northern Lights might be out of reach, there are still plenty of things to do in Iceland during May. It is a time when nature comes alive and you can make the most out of it by hiking , whale-watching , or booking one of the puffin tours .

Whale watching tour is a perfect summer activity in Iceland

There’s not enough darkness for the Northern Lights to appear in June since this month is known for a phenomenon called the midnight sun . During the summer solstice, around June 21st, the sun technically doesn’t set at all!

Unlimited hours of daylight give plenty of opportunities for exploration (until you get tired, of course)! Enjoy the milder temperatures by going hiking and camping in Iceland during this time. Our trekking tours, such as this one , are also a popular choice during this time of the year.

There are no Northern Lights tours operating in July since the bright midnight sun makes it pretty much impossible for them to appear during this month. But you must not be discouraged to visit Iceland during the summer since there are many other natural attractions to explore.

During July in Iceland, our hiking and trekking tours are a hit. Also, we would add horseback riding , whale watching and snorkeling in Silfra to the list!

Guided snorkeling tour with the dry-suits at Silfra Fissure, Iceland

Even though August is still considered to be a summer month, there have been some Northern Lights sightings during this month. However, we advise you not to get your hopes too high since August still has plenty of daylight, and as you already know, one of the main conditions for the Northern Lights to be visible is darkness. 

Since August is still one of the warmest months in Iceland, use this opportunity to explore things and places that are unavailable during winter. Such as little villages, which can be inaccessible during winter due to snow and ice, or some of the many festivals taking place in August.

September is when the Northern Lights are back on! How to see them? First, you could book accommodation in the Icelandic countryside instead of the big city. Then, you can admire the magnificent lights right outside your room window! 

Staying in Reykjavik? Well, sometimes the Northern Lights appear in the sky over the city, but to have the best chances, book a Northern Lights tour going from Reykjavik every evening!

October, with around 15 hours of darkness, is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights in Iceland! You can also benefit from the milder weather compared to other winter months. Three conditions are important in order for wonderful auroras to appear – darkness, clear skies, and high solar activity.

You can check the weather forecast and aurora forecast regularly to see where and when the best chances to see them are. Or you can leave it to us and hop on a Northern Lights tour that takes you to the best places to see auroras!

With fewer hours of daylight, November is an excellent time to see Northern Lights in action. As the days get shorter and nights longer, you’ll get more and more opportunities to see the magnificent vivid green lights dancing in the night sky. 

The best way to see them is by traveling out of the city and with light pollution. But if you decide to stay in Reykjavik, the Northern Lights can be strong enough in November to be visible even in the city. One of the most popular places to look for them is the capital Grotta Lighthouse or Öskjuhlíð hill, where the Perlan museum stands.

Bright Northern Lights over the Reykjavik city by the Harpa Concert Hall

December itself is the most magical time of the year, and seeing the Northern Lights definitely adds to the experience. December is also the darkest month in Iceland, allowing a bigger window for a Northern Lights hunt.

Our Northern Lights tours provide some of the highest chances of seeing the magical aurora borealis. To have the most memorable experience, check out our Magical Auroras Minibus tour or Northern Lights Super Jeep tour .

Planning a trip to Iceland this winter? We’ve prepared these detailed itineraries that include Northern Lights watching:

• Northern Lights Vacation Itinerary
• Northern Lights Honeymoon Vacation Itinerary

Northern Lights are visible for a longer part of the year, so coming to Iceland between September and April gives you a pretty high chance of seeing them. If you’re looking for the best place to watch them, the rule of thumb is to pick a remote location that is as far from light pollution as possible. If you’re still hesitating about the best time and place, you can always check the aurora forecast or trust experienced guides and book one of the popular Northern Lights tours .

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The best time to visit Iceland

By Amber Port

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Iceland is a beautiful country and one that has only grown in popularity over the past decade. The truth, however, is that the best time to visit Iceland depends on the trip you want to book.

The lure of Iceland ranges from the northern lights to its famous hot springs and incredible natural beauty.

We’ve gathered the high and low seasons, and when’s best for what so that you have an understanding of what you’ll get out of each month of the year.

High season: June to August and late December Shoulder seasons: May and September Low season: November to April, excluding school and public holidays

When is the worst time to visit Iceland?

Again, this depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip. If you want to avoid the maddening crowds, we recommend not visiting during the high season, which runs from June to August and late December.

What months are the warmest in Iceland?

June through August are the warmest months, which coincides with Iceland’s high season. You can expect lots of tourists enjoying the country; however, if you’re looking to go whale watching or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking on those long summer days, this is the right time to visit.

When is the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights?

You’re never guaranteed to see the Northern Lights, but your best bet is between November and March when the nights are long and dark. You need a clear sky, a surge in solar activity and a relatively remote location to get the best glimpse of the aurora borealis. We recommend the Snæfellsnes Peninsula , which offers an isolated position and an excellent vantage point to see the Northern Lights.

When is the best time to visit Iceland for whale watching?

The whale watching season coincides with the high season in Iceland . You can whale watch from April to September, with June through August being the best months.

When is the cheapest time to go to Iceland?

The cheapest time to visit Iceland is during the low season, which runs from November to April. There are fewer tourists too, which means flights, hotels , and any other rentals will be at a lower price point.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Iceland? - A Comprehensive Guide for Every Month & Season

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Iceland?

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By understanding how each season offers distinct experiences, you'll be better equipped to plan your ideal Icelandic adventure that's tailored to your preferences and priorities. As Iceland is located in the far northern hemisphere, right at the edge of the Arctic Circle , the differences between seasons are quite dramatic.

The best time of year to visit Iceland, therefore, depends on what you most want to do. Whether you're looking to go whale watching , head to a glacier to explore an ice cave or visit the Westfjords , the time of year is key when it comes to planning your trip.

When wondering about the best time to travel to Iceland, first, you need to make a decision on what season works best for you. Iceland's four seasons differ in not only the weather but also the number of daylight hours. Each season has its characteristics and different things to do that may not be available in other seasons.

Additionally, spring is an ideal time for birdwatching enthusiasts, as migratory birds, including the charming puffin, return to nest along the rugged cliffs. It's also the last chance to see the northern lights before it gets too bright. Overall, spring provides a serene and picturesque setting for exploring Iceland.

The warmer temperatures also make it a perfect season for outdoor activities such as  horseback riding  and  going on hiking tours . Summer is the peak season for the number of travelers, so expect more crowds at popular attractions. However, the opportunity to go on tours of the Highlands and indulge in various festivals celebrating Iceland's culture and history makes it a truly memorable time to visit.

With cooler temperatures setting in, visitors can still enjoy outdoor pursuits such as hiking and exploring geothermal hot springs without the summer crowds. Fall also brings the return of darker skies, so the chance of seeing the elusive aurora borealis returns. Visiting Iceland in the fall promises a unique blend of natural beauty, space to roam, and opportunities for unforgettable experiences.

The long nights provide ample opportunity to chase the magical northern lights or even go on a northern lights cruise , while the festive atmosphere in towns around the country allows visitors to enjoy the local Christmas celebrations and the bombastic New Year's Eve. Although the weather can be unpredictable, visiting Iceland in winter offers a unique experience that highlights the country's enchanting allure.

• Learn more: New Year's Eve in Iceland

Because of the wide range of different activities and things to do in Iceland, it can be helpful to break down what activities are possible dependent on the time of year. Of course, there are plenty of things you can do any time of year, such as engaging in delicious food tours in the city or exploring the many waterfalls around the country (just wear layers in the winter!), but below are a few of the seasonal-dependent activities that might make or break when you'd want to visit Iceland.

Keep in mind that while this mesmerizing phenomenon is largely dependent on solar activity and clear skies, it is also important to venture away from city lights to areas with less light pollution for the best viewing experience. Then cross your fingers and enjoy the show!

Top Northern Lights Tours & Holidays

2 day ice cave tour with south coast waterfalls & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 3-day northern lights tour of iceland’s golden circle & south coast with ice caving & glacier hiking, 8-day guided northern lights winter tour of the complete ring road of iceland.

During this time, the sun barely dips below the horizon, and daylight extends into the night as the sky turns pink and purple during a long-lasting twilight period. This provides plenty of opportunities for late-night sightseeing, photography, and  exciting midnight sun tours .

Photo from Original 3-Hour Whale Watching Adventure in Oak Boats

The best time to go whale watching in Iceland typically falls between April and October, with peak season occurring in the summer months of June, July, and August. During this period, the seas around Iceland become a feeding ground for multiple species of whales, resulting in a higher probability of sightings. Minke whales, humpback whales, and white-beaked dolphins are commonly sighted during these months.

However, orcas and dolphins are most commonly spotted during the winter months, specifically from February to March, when Breidafjordur bay becomes a feeding ground full of herring, which can be spotted on this Snaefellsnes whale-watching tour . You can also keep in mind that whale-watching tours are less crowded during the winter, which is another advantage.

• Learn more: The Best Guide to Whale Watching in Iceland

Photo from Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier

The optimal time for ice caving in Iceland is during the colder months, typically from November to March. During this period, the temperatures drop sufficiently to freeze the glacial ice caves, making them safe and stable to explore. That's when they're at their most spectacular, with the clear blue ice illuminated by the refracturing sunlight. It's important to note that ice caving should always be undertaken with a guide on professional ice cave tours .

During the summer, most ice caves become too unstable to be visited safely, with two exceptions! You can still visit the ice cave at Katla , near the town of Vik on Iceland's south coast. Additionally, you can visit the ice cave tunnel in Langjokull , which was carved into the glacier itself.

However, if viewing the northern lights is on your bucket list, consider a road trip between September and March when they are visible after sunset. Be mindful that winter driving can be challenging due to unpredictable weather and shorter days, and renting a 4x4 car is crucial to stay safe. Check out the many winter self-drive tours available, which are fully customized with extensive itineraries and pre-booked accommodations around the country.

Top Self Drive Tours in Iceland

Best ice cave tour in vatnajokull glacier starting from jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes, best 1-week summer self-drive tour of the ring road of iceland & golden circle.

However, for those seeking to view the northern lights while relaxing in the warm waters, the best time to visit is during the winter months (September to March), although keep in mind that daylight is significantly shorter during this time. Regardless of the season, this warm lagoon often gets busy, so it's advisable to book your tickets to the Blue Lagoon well in advance and try to go early in the morning or later in the evening when it's less crowded. There's also a wide variety of Blue Lagoon tours that incorporate other activities with a visit to the famous geothermal spa.

While camping in other seasons is possible, winter camping can be particularly challenging due to harsh weather conditions, limited daylight, and the closure of many campsites. Keep in mind that no matter the season, camping outside of designated camping sites is illegal, including parking rental campervans overnight.

Photo from Admission to Hvammsvik Hot Springs near Reykjavik

Hot springs in Iceland can be enjoyed throughout the year, each season offering its unique charm. During the summer months, from June to August, the milder weather and extended daylight hours allow for more flexible planning. Visiting during the midnight sun can add an extra layer of enchantment to your hot springs experience.

However, many people find the contrast of Iceland's chilly winter temperatures and the warm geothermal waters irresistible. There's also a chance to see the northern lights while you soak, creating a truly unique experience. Just remember that access to some remote hot springs can be more difficult in winter due to harsh conditions, so make sure to always check road conditions and weather  before heading out.

Photo from Whitewater Action in North Iceland

The ideal time for river rafting in Iceland typically falls within the summer months, from June to early September. That's when the weather is warmer and the snowmelt from the mountains feeds the rivers, creating thrilling white-water conditions ideal for rafting. If you're traveling with children, you could even embark on this 3-hour family-friendly river rafting tour in North Iceland .

Although the summer months are best, the season can start as early as May and extend into September, depending on weather conditions.

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Also, with the summer's extended daylight hours, you have plenty of time to observe these feathered creatures in their natural habitat. Locations like the Latrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords , Lake Myvatn in the north, and the Westman Islands are prime spots for birdwatching during this period. However, remember to respect the birds' nesting areas and observe from a safe distance to avoid causing any disturbance.

• Learn more: Birds in Iceland

The peak season is during the summer months from June to August. This is because of the long hours of daylight, warmer weather, and the opportunity to engage in sightseeing around the country, and going on road trips on the Ring Road . The peak season shortly returns around the time of Christmas and New Year's during the last half of December into early January, as people visit to experience the festive atmosphere in Iceland during this period of the year.

The shoulder season splits in two, the first being in spring (April-May) and the second during autumn (September-October). During those periods, it's still relatively warm compared to the cold winter, and visitors can comfortably travel between attractions without much worry about snow. The days are certainly shorter than during the bright summer but still give plenty of time for sightseeing. You could even see the northern lights if conditions are right during April or October, even though it's not the prime season for aurora hunting.

Lastly, the off-peak season from November to March (minus the Christmas season!) presents the coldest weather conditions but also the greatest opportunities to see the northern lights, go glacier hiking , dog-sledding , or skiing. Note that daylight is very limited in the winter months, and certain areas may be inaccessible due to weather conditions, such as the Westfjords and the Highlands.

• Read more: 18 Things to Do & Places to Visit in Iceland

Iceland's weather varies significantly throughout the year due to its location close to the Arctic Circle. The country experiences relatively mild but unpredictable weather. Because of its proximity to the Arctic, daylight hours swing dramatically during the year. This can be good to know when deciding when to go to Iceland.

Concurrently, the daylight hours rapidly increase due to Iceland's position near the Arctic Circle. In the early spring, there can be approximately 13 to 14 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6 AM and setting around 8 PM in April. However, by late May, daylight can extend up to 20 to 21 hours a day. This significant increase in daylight hours, coupled with the country's blossoming landscapes, marks a vibrant and exciting time to experience Iceland's unique natural beauty.

During this season, the daylight hours in summer reach their peak due to Iceland's position. In the early summer months, daylight extends remarkably, offering nearly 24 hours of daylight, peaking around the summer solstice in late June. The sun barely dips below the horizon before rising again, giving birth to the mesmerizing phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. This astonishing period of prolonged daylight paints the landscapes in a continuous golden hue and offers extended hours for exploration.

Top Summer Tours & Packages

Outstanding 2 day tour of iceland's south coast with glacier hiking & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Daylight hours begin to recede during the autumn months. At the onset of autumn in September, the length of daylight begins to align more closely with the length of night, providing approximately 12 to 13 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6:30 AM and setting around 7:30 PM. However, by late October, daylight hours diminish to approximately 8 to 9 hours per day, with the sun rising closer to 9 AM and setting around 5 PM. This creates an opportunity to view the northern lights when the skies are dark.

In terms of daylight, winter marks the period of the shortest days in Iceland due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle. By December, daylight hours can be as short as 4 to 5 hours a day, with the sun rising around 11:30 AM and setting around 3:30 PM. However, this lack of daylight also creates the best time of year to see Iceland's most iconic natural phenomenon - the aurora borealis, which lights up the winter sky with its enchanting and colorful display.

• Learn more: Iceland's Weather, Climate and Temperature Year-Round

If you're not sure when to visit, or if you've already booked your flight and want to know what's going on when you arrive, here is a short overview for each month of the year in Iceland and what you can expect. Clicking on each of the headlines will take you to a much more detailed guide with everything you need to know about that particular month in Iceland.

Photo from Thrilling 2-Hour ATV Ride on South Coast to the DC Plane Wreck

August is the last month of pure summer bliss in Iceland, making it a great time of year for fun outdoor activities such as feeling the serenity of the water on kayaking tours , getting a rush of adrenaline while zooming across black sand beaches on ATV and buggy tours or braving the rapids of glacial rivers on epic rafting tours . If you'd prefer to take things slow and just enjoy the beauty and peacefulness of nature, go sightseeing and enjoy the many natural wonders around the country. The first weekend of August is a 3-day weekend for Icelanders, with many festivals being held around the country, the biggest one being in the Westman Islands. The festivities in August continue, with Menningarnott (Reykjavik Cultural Night) being celebrated the following weekend and Reykjavik Pride Festival the weekend after that. If you're not sure about things to do, check out our extensive selection of August tours which you can book online.

Yes, Iceland can be visited in winter. This is the best time to see the northern lights. However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable and daylight hours are reduced. There is a wide range of winter tours and packages in Iceland that you can explore.

The northern lights are not visible in summer due to the long daylight hours. The best time to see them is during clear, dark nights from late September to early April. For the best chance to see these elusive lights, there are a lot of northern lights tours to choose from during the winter.

Yes, the Golden Circle is open any time of the year and is conveniently located close to Reykjavik. If you're driving yourself, it's a good idea to rent a 4x4 vehicle if you're going there during the winter in case the roads are snowy. If you don't want to drive, there is a wide variety of Golden Circle tours to choose from.

During winter in Iceland, it's important to dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable. Start with thermal underwear and add layers such as a fleece jacket or wool sweater. Over this, wear a windproof and waterproof outer layer. Don't forget to wear insulated waterproof boots with good grip, as streets can become icy. Warm socks, gloves, hats, and scarves are also essential to protect against the cold.

Even in summer, weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. Pack layers, including a warm jacket, waterproof outer layer, hat, gloves, sturdy footwear, and warm socks. Don't forget your swimsuit for geothermal lagoon visits! You can read our Ultimate Guide on What to Wear in Iceland for tips about dressing appropriately any time of year.

Yes, renting a car in Iceland is a popular way to explore the country. Do note that weather conditions can make driving challenging, especially in winter. Always check road conditions and weather forecasts before setting out.

When would you most like to visit Iceland? If you have been to Iceland, what time of year did you visit? Let us know in the comments below!

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Best time to visit Iceland in 2023 (northern lights, wildlife, roads…)

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

When is the best time to visit Iceland?  The truth is: anytime of the year.  However, you may be interested in specific sights, so below are more specific answers:

• best time to visit Iceland for northern lights,
• Best time to see puffins, whales, lupin flowers in Iceland,
• best months to visit Iceland based on driving conditions and crowds.

OVERALL – When is the best time to visit Iceland in 2023?

Visual overview – every year.

It really depends on what you want to see. The article below, gives you explanations about where and how to see all those special sights, but here is an overview picture to help you identify the best time for you to visit Iceland:

Best month to visit Iceland in Summer

I think Beginning of September is the absolute best time to visit Iceland because:

• Roads are in good condition
• The day is long enough to be able to see many Iceland Attractions
• There is enough nighttime to have a chance to see the Northern Lights
• There are less tourists than in Summer, but accommodations are still open
• The Central Highlands roads are normally still open

It is my opinion that it is the best time to see Iceland generally, but it does not take into account your wishes for special sights. So, let’s have a look in more details.

My favorites to plan your Summer Iceland trip:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Iceland: Discovercars

My favorite places to stay around Iceland:

• Reykjavik , the capital, of course:   Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel  
• Vik to explore the South Coast: Hotel Vik i Myrdal
• Lake Myvatn, in the north: Hotel Laxa
• Borgarnes , between Snaefellsnes and Silver Circle: Hotel Hamar

My favorite bus tour from Reykjavik (Summer): Amazing Snaefellsnes Peninsula

My favorite activity around Iceland (Summer): Whale watching from Husavik (best) or Reykjavik or Akureyri

My favorite platform to book travel-packages in Iceland: guidetoiceland

Best month to visit Iceland in Winter

I think the end of February is the absolute best time to visit Iceland in Winter because:

• The natural ice caves are still accessible

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites to plan your Winter Iceland trip:

• Vik  to explore the South Coast:  Hotel Vik i Myrdal
• Lake Myvatn,  in the north:  Hotel Laxa
• Borgarnes , between Snaefellsnes and Silver Circle:  Hotel Hamar

My favorite bus tour from Reykjavik (Winter): Chasing Northern Lights even without guarantee of seeing them

My favorite activities around Iceland: Visiting an ice-cave and Walking on a glacier

Specifics for 2023

Things to consider if planning a trip to Iceland in 2023 (in theory, but check the latest decisions for large gathering due to the virus):

• 3rd to 6th February – Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival
• Late March – Iceland Winter Games (maybe)
• June – Reykjavik Arts Festival
• June 17 – Icelandic National Day
• 8nd to 13th August – Reykjavik Pride
• December – Christmas villages
• Mid-December – Yule Lads Baths in Myvatn

You can see the complete list of festivals and events here

Best time to visit Iceland for Photography

There is no answer to that. There are great opportunities all year long with midnight sun in June, auroras in Winter… I would just recommend avoiding July and August as those are the most crowded months without something extra specific to photograph.

Conditions – Best times of the year to visit Iceland (weather, daytime, crowds…)

Length of the days.

Because of its Northern Latitude, sunrise and sunset times in Iceland vary greatly. So depending on when you visit the country, you might be limited in terms of light and can see more or less locations during the day.

Below is the amount of daylight to expect for different periods of the year

• March –  10 to 13 hours of daylight
• April & May – 13 to 20 hours of daylight
• June – 20 to 24 hours of daylight
• July & August – 15 to 20 hours of daylight
• September & October – 8 to 14 hours of daylight
• November to February – 4h30 to 8 hours of daylight

It is also important to consider how long nighttime is to see the Northern lights (more on that later).

WEATHER – Best time to travel to Iceland

I don’t recommend using weather as your first criteria for the best time to visit Iceland as it is very unpredictable. In the same day you can see the blue sky, get rain, experience strong windy moments and even get snow! 

You don’t come to Iceland for the weather. Any conditions will render the landscapes magical. Just have a look at Jokulsarlon below:

You should just know that it can be cold in Summer and it is actually not as cold as we imagine in Winter. For example:

• Average temperatures in January are between -3°C and 2°C (not the -20 we were all imagining…)
• Average Iceland Summer temperatures : 8 to 15°C

Check out my complete article with detailed suggestions and tips on what to wear and pack for Iceland

How to avoid the crowds in Iceland

Of course, the Summer months are the more crowded. Actually the land is so vast that you don’t feel it when driving. You feel the crowds at each of the famous locations e.g. Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon, Seljalandsfoss.

• Therefore, I recommend traveling in April/May or September/October 
• If you really want to travel in Summer, then you either go very early to avoid the crowds (lots of daylight hours) or you go to less visited areas such as the Westfjords.

Planning – Best time to go to Iceland

Driving conditions.

Driving might be one of the most important things to consider when deciding the best time for you to visit Iceland:

• The F roads to the magnificent  Central Highlands are open only from Mid-June to September (depending on conditions)
• Apart from Road 1, ice and snow will be your driving partners from November to March 

Check out my articles about Driving in Iceland in Summer and Driving in Iceland in Winter  with videos.

Need to rent a car in Iceland?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Prefer a  compact car  for the narrow streets in villages
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Accommodations

There are more and more accommodations in Iceland so it might change. But keep in mind (at least for a couple of years):

• In Summer there are many tourists and accommodations are full very quickly
• In Winter, there are not many open accommodations, so they also get booked quickly
• The shoulder months of May and September are maybe the easier time to find accommodation in Iceland

In any case, if you plan on visiting remote locations in Iceland, you should book your hotels or guesthouses in advance. Check out my Iceland Accommodations article for general information and 12 suggestions with personal reviews.

Planning a road trip – things to see

It is possible to go on a road trip both in Summer and in Winter. However, in Winter, many points of interest are not accessible. The places that can be visited in both Summer and Winter offer magical experiences all year round. Below you can compare the waterfall of Skogafoss in both seasons. You can see more example on my Summer vs Winter article .

To plan your itinerary, you can check out:

• My general post about planning an Iceland road trip
• My suggested itineraries for 5 days in Iceland
• My suggested for 7 days in Iceland itineraries
• My 4 itineraries to spend 10 days in Iceland
• And my favorite itinerary for 14 days around Iceland
• or get one of my practical eBooks to help you plan your ideal itinerary:

Plan your dream trip to Iceland with my guides!

• 8 easy-to-plan maps
• 100+ pre-selected locations
• GPS coordinates 
• Useful planning tips
• 130+ large photos 

• 6 easy-to-plan maps
• 75+ pre-selected locations
• 115+ large photos 

Best time to visit Iceland for NORTHERN LIGHTS

The northern lights, also called aurora borealis, are lights (often green) which seem to dance in the sky. To be able to see them, you need a dark night and a clear sky. So, when is the best time to visit Iceland for Northern lights?

Best time to go to Iceland for Northern lights 

The best months to see the Northern Lights are from late September to March , when there is enough nighttime to be able to see them. There is nothing specific per year.

Best month to see northern lights in Iceland – can viewing be guaranteed?

No, there are no guarantees. There is no one month that you can pick and when you are sure you will be able to see the auroras. It depends on the solar activity and the cloud coverage. When the sky is all cloudy, you will see nothing at all.

Try not to plan your trip during the full moon. The darker the night the better.

Best places  

• In remote locations away from any light source
• North Iceland is considered to be better as you have more clear nights
• Facing North is also recommended. Although not a rule – so for example, Kirkjufell is a great location

Practical Guide – Interested in hunting and capturing the Aurora Borealis? Learn more on how to see the northern lights in Iceland with tools to use, how to get ready, tips to photograph the Northern Lights…

Northern Lights excursions

If you don’t want to chase them yourself, you should consider organised tours in the evening. There are different options, for example from Reykjavik:

• BUS TOUR  – One of the cheapest options is to go on a bus tour. You leave from Reykjavik and the driver takes you to the best spots he knows depending on the forecast –  Check out Program, availability and Price
• SMALL GROUP TOUR – This is my favorite option, it is easier to go from one spot to another chasing the Northern Lights because you can gather everyone more quickly  and you can go off the beaten tracks – Check out Program, availability and Price
• NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE – A more original option is to go on a boat off the coast of Reykjavik to find the dark and hopefully see the Northern Lights – Check out options
• A Cruise option is also available from Akureyri in the North –  Check out Program, availability and Price

Best time to see WHALES in Iceland

Iceland is a great place to observe whales, as they enjoy the cold waters and abundant feeding grounds. Species visiting the island include the orca, minke, humpback and blue whale.

Whale watching Iceland – best time of the year:

• Whales can be seen around Iceland all year
• However, more sightings are reported between April and September
• Killer whales are mostly spotted in April and May

Best places 

Whale watching Boat tours depart mostly from Reykjavik (South West) and Akureyri or Husavik (in the North). The North is considered a better whale watching spot.

Whale excursions options

• Whale watching cruise from Reykjavik, on a boat with heated cabin – Check out program and Book
• Whale watching experience from Reykjavik on a Boat –  Check out program and Book
• 3 hours Whale watching boat trip from Akureyri in the North – Check out program and Book
• Or leave from the Traditional fishing town of Husavik – Check out program and Book

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

Best time to see PUFFINS in Iceland (and places)

The puffin is a strange looking bird with a black back, white underparts, and a distinctive colorful beak.

Best time to see Puffins in Iceland

• Puffins come to the coast to nest from May to Mid-August, which is the Iceland puffins’ season
• From mid-June to mid-July, the parents fly back and forth from the sea to the nests with food, so it is a great time to observe them

Best places to see them

Iceland is the perfect place to see puffins. Actually it is the best place in the World, because it home to the majority of the world’s population. Love this fun fact? Find out more in this list of 25 fun facts about Iceland .

There are good places to see puffins in both South and North Iceland. However it is way easier to admire them from a boat. Iceland Mag has a great article and a map with prime locations to observe the puffins in their natural environment.

Puffin Excursions

As I said, they are easier to observe by boat. There are specialized excursions departing from Reykjavik – Check out this tour with great reviews

Best time to see ICE CAVES in Iceland

Ice caves are cavities that form naturally in a glacier and create strange formations.

November to March. Outside of this period the cave can collapse

Around glaciers… You should not go visit them by yourself. Always go with an experienced guide. Organized tours are available and should be booked in advance

Some might notice a cave in Langjokull toured in summer. This is not an ice cave but a man-made tunnel in the ice.

Most beautiful

Know that caves disappear every year. New ones are formed, sometimes similar, others are completely different. Do not expect to see what you see on the professional photos they use for marketing. If you are on Winter self-drive road trip , I would choose the Jokulsarlon Tour by Guide to Iceland. This may not be the most impressive of the blue caves, but if conditions permit you will get to see both a blue cave and a black cave. In my opinion, black ice caves are even more fascinating – check out program and availability

Check out my article to help you choose your ice cave tour

Plan your trip to Iceland this Summer:

• My itineraries :  5 days ,  1 week ,  10 days ,  2 weeks
• Where to stay in Iceland
• Where to stay in Reykjavik: best hotels
• 36 tips to rent a car in Iceland
• Guide to driving in Iceland
• How to plan a road trip in Iceland

When to go to Iceland to see LUPIN FLOWERS

Although lupin flowers exist in different colors around the world, they are mostly lilac in Iceland.

Best time 

Lupin flowers normally bloom mid-June, perfect to catch them under the midnight sun

Best locations

• Driving along the South Coast you will see many fields full of them
• Vik is often surrounded by those flowers 

EVENTS and other things to see & when

Best time to see frozen waterfalls.

Iceland is full of various amazing waterfalls but not all freeze during Winter and they are partially frozen mostly in January and February.

Just be careful driving and walking. If the waterfall is frozen, then everything around it also!

Note: the famous Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls get surrounded by ice and snow but do not freeze completely.

Want to see a VOLCANO eruption?

Best time: … when they erupt

Best place: you never know which one will become active. Although Icelandic people fear that Hekla will erupt soon.

As I visited Iceland, Bardarbunga was active. I could not take a helicopter tour to get closer but on my flight from Reykjavik to Akureyri I spotted the smoke coming from it!

Where to stay in Iceland?

My favorites:

• Reykjavik , capital city:   see best rated accommodations  – or  my article on where to stay
• Selfoss , between Golden Circle and South Coast: see best rated accommodations
• Vik,  near waterfalls and glaciers:  see best rated accommodations
• Höfn , gateway to the East fjords:  see best rated accommodations
• Egilsstadir , between fjords and North Iceland:  see best rated accommodations
• Reykjahlid , for the wonders of Lake Myvatn:  see best rated accommodations
• Akureyri , capital of the North:  see best rated accommodations
• Grundarfjordur , on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula:  see best rated accommodations

Best MONTH to visit Iceland – pros and cons

Let’s summarize month by month to help you decide the best time to visit Iceland for you.

Iceland in Winter – November to February

• Pros – Winter magic, snowy landscapes, frozen waterfalls, ice caves, less tourists
• Cons – Short and colder days, Difficult driving conditions, lower number of open accommodations, no access to Central Highlands

Iceland in March

• Pros – Still snow on landscapes, ice caves are often still accessible, less tourists, some years the weather is beautiful, good balance of night and day
• Cons – Sometimes difficult driving conditions, lower number of open accommodations, no access to the Central Highlands

Iceland in April

• Pros – landscapes on transition (less snow), less tourists, good balance of night and day, higher number of Whales, partly frozen waterfalls
• Cons – Unpredictable driving conditions, lower number of open accommodations, no access to the Central Highlands

Iceland in May

• Pros – a lot less snow, more roads open, flowers start popping up, less tourists, higher number of Whales, puffins arrive towards the end of the month
• Cons – no access to the Central Highlands

Iceland in June

• Pros – Midnight sun, high flow from waterfalls, puffins, whales, lupin, the F-roads to the Central Highlands should open, during the month
• Cons – Many tourists, no more snow on the landscapes, no chance of seeing the Northern Lights

Iceland in Summer – July and August

• Pros – warmer weather, long days, puffins (until end July), whales, high flow from waterfalls, access to the Central Highlands
• Cons – Many tourists, no more snow on the landscape, hardly any chances of seeing the Northern Lights

Iceland in September

• Pros – good balance day-night, higher chances to see Northern Lights, whales, high flow from waterfalls, roads to the Central Highlands should still open, Autumns colors
• Cons – Less greenery, getting colder

Iceland in Autumn – October

• Pros – good balance day-night, higher possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, Road conditions still OK, autumn colors, snow appearing on some landscapes
• Cons – No access to the Central Highlands, rainiest month, getting colder

Planning a road trip in Iceland? Check out my travel guides to save you time:

And keep track of your own trip!

Want to see more of Iceland’s beauty?

All articles about Summer and Autumn:

All articles about Winter:

Inspired? Share it on your favorite platform!

Reader Interactions

March 19, 2019 at 6:29 PM

This is a wonderful helpful website. I love the chart! M

June 29, 2019 at 3:29 AM

Do you know when the best time to do a cruise around Iceland would be – for calmer seas.

June 29, 2019 at 10:09 AM

Hi Debra I am sorry I have no idea. But for daylight and temperature from the decks, Summer would be the best 🙂

August 17, 2019 at 5:01 PM

This was very helpful. You have a gorgeous picture of a car driving on a road towards a mountain/glacier with the caption Driving in September. Where was the photo taken? Thank you.

August 17, 2019 at 9:42 PM

Hi Carol This was taken on a side road off road 1, on the South Coast.

Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191

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The Best Time to Visit Iceland

SD › Best Time to Visit Iceland Updated: March 3, 2024 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Reykjavik
• Best Hotels in Reykjavik for Families

When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

I think the best weather in Iceland is from May to August. This is when you can expect pleasant temperatures and long days. But it’s also high season and hotels, tours, and flights should be booked many months in advance. April and September are reasonable alternatives with decent weather, shorter days, smaller crowds, and cheaper prices.

Me, my wife, and my two kids in Reykjavik during an August visit.

• Best Time to See the Northern Lights : Many people come to Iceland hoping to see the aurora borealis, or northern lights. It’s an ideal place to do so, as the country’s small population and long distances between towns make it easy to escape light pollution, even if you’re in or near Reykjavik. There are a number of conditions required for them to be visible, including guaranteed darkness, which is why the best time to see them is from late September through late March, when there are full dark nights. (Although the lights can sometimes be seen as early as mid-August or as late as mid-April.) Another important factor is the weather – cold, clear nights are best for aurora views, because warmer nights often bring precipitation or cloud cover. Solar flares on the sun or solar wind is also required. When all of these conditions are met, you’ll have the best chance to view the colorful dancing lights. As there is less precipitation in October and November along with full dark, chilly nights, these months tend to bring the highest odds for viewing.
• Best Time for Sightseeing : Iceland is renowned for its numerous spectacular waterfalls, geysers, and volcanoes. In order to see as much as you can, you’ll want to have longer days, fewer crowds to interrupt the view, and weather that doesn’t make roads impassable. That means going in the weeks that frame either end of the high season, around the last week of May through mid-June, or anytime in September.
• Best Time for Whale Watching : Generally, the best time to go whale watching in Iceland is from April to October. The peak season is in the summer months: June, July and August, with tours available from Reykjavik, Vestmannaeyjar islands of the south coast, Husavik  Akureyri and Dalvik. You aren’t out of luck if you come during the winter, however. Provided a storm doesn’t blow in, winter whale watching is available from Grundarfjordur on the Snaefellsness Peninsula. In the winter months, watchers are given thermal suits, making it fairly comfortable to see the orca whales that follow the herring in the area waters.
• Best Time for Good Weather : The best time for optimal weather in Iceland is during the high season, particularly July and August when average highs are around 13°C, though temps can reach as high as 15°C or even 20°C. If you’re hoping to avoid the rain, the lowest amount of rainfall occurs in May and June, and temperatures are often a pleasant 11°C.
• Best Time for Visiting Blue Lagoon : The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions all year round, though the biggest crowds tend to be there between May and September, peaking in July and August. Winter months are typically the calmest, particularly December and January, outside of the holiday period. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are generally the least crowded days of the week, but more important than the day is the time of day you visit. Peak hours are in the morning, from about 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and lunchtime is generally the busiest time of day overall. By 3 or 4 p.m., the crowds are much smaller, and you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy a soak; the lagoon is open until 10 p.m. January 1 through May 25 and August 21 through October 1; until 11 p.m. May 26 through June 29; and until midnight June 30 through August 20, and October 2 through December 31.
• Best Time to Save Money : Airfare and accommodation rates in Iceland are typically cheapest during the winter months, outside of the Christmas and New Year holidays. Prices for everything peak during the busy summer months. If you’re hoping for a combination of lower overall costs and better weather, go during the shoulder season: mid-May through mid-June or September through mid-October.
• Best Time to Avoid Crowds : If you’re hoping for a more relaxed experience without the crowds, avoid going to Iceland in the high season, from mid-June through August. By visiting in April or May, September or October, you’ll encounter fewer tourists, yet the days will be long enough to enjoy sightseeing and possibly decent weather. The fewest visitors come between November and March, but this is also when inclement weather and short, dark days can affect your plans.

The best time to visit Iceland can vary depending on your interests, but for most people it will be between late April and early September.

Iceland’s Travel Seasons

• High Season (mid-June through August) : Iceland’s high season falls during the peak of summer, when the days are very long (the sun never completely sets on the longest day of the year), allowing visitors to enjoy the country’s myriad of outdoor adventures in the Midnight Sun. This is also the best chance for pleasant weather, but expect to find thicker tourist crowds at popular attractions, higher prices, and greater difficulty finding accommodations.
• Shoulder Season (Mid-May through mid-June, September through mid-October) : Iceland doesn’t have much of a shoulder season, with the majority of visitors arriving during the peak of summer. Coming in late spring, visitors can expect the snow to be thawing, fewer tourists, a wider range of available accommodation, and occasionally lower prices. In early autumn, temperatures may be cool and crisp, with golden light and changing colors on the trees. There will be fewer travelers and some lower prices. The later in the fall you arrive, the better chance you’ll have of seeing the northern lights.
• Low Season (Mid-October through mid-May) : An increasing number of visitors travel to Iceland during the low season for hot springs, winter adventures, and nightlife, but this is still a good time to avoid tourist crowds and enjoy better rates and availability on accommodation, car rentals, and airfare. Winter temperatures in Iceland are surprisingly moderate, generally hovering right around freezing, though days are often dark, with just four to six hours of daylight. Most major roads are plowed, but mountain roads and interior routes will be impassable, and many attractions are shut down, especially outside of Reykjavik.

Iceland Weather by Month

• Iceland Weather in January : January is the coldest month in Iceland, with an average high of 2°C, and an average low of -3°C. When you consider that the temperatures are similar to that of New York City, it’s probably milder than what you’ve envisioned. Winds often reach gale force, however, and when that happens, it does feel very cold. It’s frequently rainy, particularly in and around Reykjavik, and this month (along with February) have the best chance for snow. The days are short, with about four hours of sunlight in early January; sunrise is at 11:19 a.m. and sunset at 3:44 p.m. on the 1st, although by the end of the month that stretches to about seven hours, with the sun coming up at 10:10 a.m. and going down at 5:12 p.m. (Average Max Temperature: 2°C. Average Precipitation: 55mm.)
• Iceland Weather in February : February is similar to January in terms of temperature, but you’ll have more daylight hours to enjoy the scenery. By the end of the month, there are 10 hours of sunlight, with sunrise at 8:38 a.m. and sunset at 6:43 p.m. There is also slightly less precipitation, with an average of 40mm falling in the form of rain or snow. Instead of snow covered streets, you may even see lush gardens, with temps hovering slightly above zero on most days. The majority of attractions and roads in southwest Iceland will be open with the exception of significant storms that may blow through, and most will be wonderfully crowd-free. Dress properly and you’ll stay warm, with temps comparable to winter weather in the northern reaches of the U.S. (Average Max Temperature: 2°C. Average Precipitation: 40mm.)
• Iceland Weather in March : March brings even more daylight, with more sun than darkness throughout the day by the end of the month. As of March 31st, day length increases to 13 hours and 26 minutes – a gain of three hours and 16 minutes in just one month. Temperatures still haven’t changed much, however, and the amount of precipitation is the same as it was in February, meaning it will still feel like winter. Rainy days are as common as sunny days, though in the city of Reykjavik, most snow is likely to be seen on the surrounding mountains and not on the ground. Many roads, outside of the capital area and southwest region, will still be impassable without a 4-wheel drive vehicle. (Average Max Temperature: 2°C. Average Precipitation: 40mm.)
• Iceland Weather in April : While it’s not exactly beach weather, April unofficially marks the start of “summer” in Iceland. Temperatures are on the increase, with an average high of 5°C and lows right at freezing. Precipitation drops considerably, to half of what it was in February and March at 20mm, which can come in the form of snow but most often falls as rain, especially in the lowlands. By April’s end, the length of day has increased to 16 hours and 44 minutes, another significant gain over the previous month, with sunrise at 6:46 a.m. and sunset at 8:19 p.m. As you really should no matter when you visit Iceland, bring lots of layers and waterproof shoes so you can handle anything the weather might throw at you. (Average Max Temperature: 5°C. Average Precipitation: 20mm.)
• Iceland Weather in May : May is often a fabulous time to be in Iceland, with long 20+ hour days, fewer tourists and lower prices. While it’s still a bit chilly by most standards, with an average high of 9°C, there are typically plenty of sunny days. In Reykjavík, the chance of a wet day over the course of the month rapidly decreases, starting at 36% on the 1st and ending it at 29%. That said, the weather in Iceland is always subject to extreme change and can be rather unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for the unexpected. In the interior, mountainous areas of the country, there is still a possibility of snow. (Average Max Temperature: 9°C. Average Precipitation: 40mm.)
• Iceland Weather in June : June brings the longest day of the year. While sunrise and sunset hours shift throughout the month, the sun rises on average at 2:42 a.m. and sets at 11:32 p.m. In Iceland’s northern reaches, the sun barely sets before it pops back up again. Temperatures are climbing too, with the average high at 11°C, and it’s not unheard of for temps to reach 15 or even 20°C. There’s also less wind, and less rain, making it easier to enjoy all of those outdoor adventures. Of course, with that brings the peak tourist season, so expect bigger crowds and higher prices, and book accommodations well in advance. (Average Max Temperature: 11°C. Average Precipitation: 20mm.)
• Iceland Weather in July : As mentioned, July is another one of the most popular times of the year to visit Iceland. The weather is often pleasant, though never too hot, and days are still long with sunset averaging around 11 p.m., and the sun rising early, at 3:23 a.m. July boasts the warmest temperatures in Iceland, with average highs of 13°C and lows at 11°C. Of course, like June, temps can creep up quite a bit more than that and you could end up with a number of much warmer days. While you might experience some light rain, average precipitation is still at a minimum. (Average Max Temperature: 13°C. Average Precipitation: 20mm.)
• Iceland Weather in August : Summer in Iceland is short-lived, so expect temperatures to gradually decline this month – though August is still one of the warmest and driest times of the year. Temps rarely dip below 6°C, or exceed 14°C. There’s a slightly higher chance for rain than in June or July, with an average of 30mm of precipitation. Earlier in the month, you’re more likely to experience summer-like days, but as August moves towards September, temperatures drop and a chill comes to the air, especially at night. The days of the Midnight Sun are gone, though you’ll still have lots of daylight for exploring, with sunrise around 5 a.m. and sunset just before 9:30 p.m. (Average Max Temperature: 13°C. Average Precipitation: 30mm.)
• Iceland Weather in September : While the days aren’t as long in September (nearly 15 hours of daylight on the 1st, decreasing to 11 hours and 35 minutes on the 30th), temperatures are often pleasant, crowds have disappeared, and prices start to drop. The earlier in the month you come, the warmer it’s likely to be, with temps as warm as 13°C. On average, the high hovers around 9°C and can dip as low as 5°C. There is a greater chance for rain, and even a possibility of snow, so be prepared by bringing plenty of layers and a variety of clothing. You may even be treated to the northern lights, which can generally be seen, when conditions are right, from about late September through late March. (Average Max Temperature: 9°C. Average Precipitation: 40mm.)
• Iceland Weather in October : By the end of October, it starts to feel like winter in Iceland. This month is a time of transition; the autumn colors are in full swing, temperatures are gradually dropping, and days are increasingly shorter. On October 31st, the sun doesn’t rise until 9:03 a.m., and it sets at 5:18 p.m. The average temperature is a brisk 4°C and drizzle is quite common, so plan for wet, cool weather. On the upside, with the exception of some of the most remote areas of the country, the majority of Iceland is still accessible to tourists, and there are far fewer crowds and reduced prices too. (Average Max Temperature: 6°C. Average Precipitation: 30mm.)
• Iceland Weather in November : Summer is now a distant memory, and while it isn’t as dark or cold as December and January, temperatures drop to an average of around 3°C with lows dipping to about freezing, and the sun shines for only six hours or so, rising a little before 10 a.m. and setting around 4:30 p.m. Of course, the earlier in the month you arrive, the milder the weather and the more daylight you’ll have. Even though it’s likely to be pretty cold, with frequent days of light rain, snow and/or fog, depending on the specific destinations you visit, as long as you dress appropriately, most of the time you’ll be comfortable and find lots to do with fewer crowds to contend with. (Average Max Temperature: 5°C. Average Precipitation: 30mm.)
• Iceland Weather in December : December in Iceland is cold and dark, but it’s also one of the most beautiful months to be in the country, with snow covering the landscape and dazzling holiday lights helping to brighten the darkness. The days are very short, now the opposite of summer’s famous Midnight Sun. While you won’t see much daylight, when you do it has a surreal, iridescent quality unlike anywhere else; this is known as the “long blue,” the blue light that lingers before the sun finally rises. When it does rise, it grazes the sky and then quickly descends below again. You’re almost guaranteed to experience snow, rain, or a combination of both, though the temperature rarely dips much below freezing, with the low averaging -1°C. The weather also keeps many tourists away, so you’re likely to find lower rates and greater accommodation availability. Bundle up and enjoy like the Icelanders do. (Average Max Temperature: 4°C. Average precipitation: 40mm.)

Iceland Events and Festivals

September to March is best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.

Iceland in January

• New Year’s Day – January 1st is a national holiday as it is in most nations around the world, though it’s really a two-day holiday here as just about everything is closed until January 3rd. As most people stay up very late on New Year’s Eve, the first day of the new year is often spent sleeping at home and the second-day shopping holiday sales.
• January 6th – January 6 marks the official last day of Christmas in Iceland. Known as “þrettándinn,” it is celebrated with bonfires, traditional songs and fireworks.
• Thorrablot – This is an ancient Viking mid-winter tradition that originally was a feast of sacrifice, involving the blood of goats and oxen. Today, the celebration that starts the 13th week of winter on the Friday that falls within January 19 to 25, includes lots of singing, dancing, drinking and eating traditional Norse dishes like fermented shark, pickled ram testicles and boiled sheep heads. To attend a real celebration, you’ll need an invitation from a local, but some restaurants in Reykjavik offer special Thorrablot dinners.

Iceland in February

• Winter Lights Festival – This festival hosted around the first weekend in February was created to help lift spirits and brighten the winter darkness. The capital city will be dramatically lit up, not only with gorgeous light-art installations, but with a cornucopia of cultural events from choral performances and figuring skating to fashion shows and belly dancing. Other highlights include Pool Night and Museum Night, in which the museums and pools around Reykjavik stay open late and offer free admission.
• Öskudagur – Öskudagur, or Ash Wednesday, is on the seventh Wednesday before Easter (February 14 in 2018). This is when Icelandic children dress in costume and sing for candy, similar to Halloween.
• Food and Fun – For four days in late February, and sometimes early March, the Food and Fun Festival is a time when many of the world’s most acclaimed chefs collaborate with the finest restaurants in Reykjavik. Special menus are prepared that consist only of Icelandic ingredients and are available at participating eateries during the festival. A televised competition is also held in which the top international chefs are challenged to create dishes on the spot, using purely Icelandic ingredients.

Iceland in March

• Beer Day – On March 1st every year, this unofficial holiday honors the anniversary of the 1989 legalization of beer with an alcohol content above 2.2%. To make up for the lost time it was banned (all the way from 1915 through 1989), Icelanders indulge in a beer spree, with celebrations held in pubs, clubs and restaurants throughout Reykjavik.
• DesignMarch – This event held over four days in mid-March showcases Icelandic product design, interior and graphic design, furniture and architecture over three days in mid-march. It hosts workshops, talks, exhibitions and other events, and has attracted big names in the past like Calvin Klein.
• Reykjavik Folk Festival – A three-day music feast held in early March, this event celebrates the Icelandic folk music scene with a lineup of folk artists of various styles and ages.

Iceland in April

• Easter – Easter marks the end to the long, dark winter. Most workers in Iceland get five days off, from Holy Thursday to Easter Monday, which may fall in March or April, depending on the year. Schools and most offices shut down, and many shops may be closed too. This is a time when locals often head elsewhere to visit family and friends, or to the famous ski festival in Isafjordur, which features ski competitions as well as a rock music festival.
• The First Day of Summer – The old Icelandic calendar, in which there are only two seasons, summer and winter, designated the official start of summer on the Thursday that falls within April 19 and April 25. Just about every town in Iceland will have its own celebration which typically includes parades, sporting events, street entertainment and gift giving.

Iceland in May

• Reykjavik Art Festival – This long-running art festival takes place every other year over 16 days starting in mid-May, with the next event to be held in 2018. It features a variety of national and international theater, art, design and dance that’s showcased throughout the capital city.
• Rite of Spring Festival – Hosted in early May, this festival is focused on cutting-edge world, jazz and folk music.

Iceland in June

• Seafarer’s Day & Festival of the Sea – This holiday officially known as Sjómannadagur, is held on the first weekend of June to honor the contribution fishermen have made to Icelandic culture and the economy, as well as to remember those who were lost at sea. In fishing villages across the country, you’ll find it celebrated with lively parties, fantastic local seafood, cultural events and paradise. The fishermen themselves take part in all sorts of competitive events like strongman competitions as well as rowing and swimming races.
• Iceland National Day – This official public holiday commemorates Iceland’s full independence from Denmark on June 17, 1944. One of the most popular events of the summer, the streets of Reykjavik are filled with colorful parades, street performances, traditional dancing, theatrical performances and free outdoor music concerts that last well into the night. Each town honors the day in its own unique way, so no matter where you plan to be, you’re likely to find a celebration.
• Summer Solstice and the Secret Solstice Festival – This relatively new festival is held on the longest day of the year, June 21st. It features rock bands, singer-songwriters, DJs and other acts from Iceland and beyond, hosted on multiple stages over four days under the Midnight Sun. There are also numerous local summer solstice celebrations held on this day in which Icelanders gather to watch the sun dip below the horizon only to quickly rise up again.
• International Viking Festival – The oldest and biggest festival of its kind in Iceland is held in Hafnarfjörður at Viking Village over five days in mid-June. A Middle Age market is set up where costumed “Vikings” sell handmade goods, host staged battles, dance, tell stories and show visitors how to do things like shoot a bow and arrow, carve wood, and throw spears and axes.

Iceland in July

• Innipúkinn Festival – This small annual music festival held over the bank holiday weekend in late July in downtown Reykjavik offers the chance to enjoy some of the country’s favorite bands, bringing in the cream of the crop of the Icelandic music scene. It also includes standup comedians, a music market and a wide variety of food trucks.
• LungA – Hosted in the small town of Seyðisfjörður in East Iceland, LungA offers a mix of art and music in a spectacular location that’s held over seven days in mid-July. It includes live music, a variety of workshops, and a wide range of art on display.

Iceland in August

• Verslunarmannahelgi – The first weekend of August is a bank holiday weekend during which many Icelanders leave town to go camping. The Westman Islands are the most popular destination, with visitors gathering at campgrounds to enjoy live bands and a bonfire that goes on well into the morning. There are also a variety of events held throughout the country.
• Gay Pride – Iceland’s biggest Gay Pride event is held over the second weekend in August. It features concerts, theater, all-night parties and a parade. Tens of thousands pour into downtown Reykjavik to show solidarity and revel with the city’s gay community, making it a fun event for all.
• Reykjavik Marathon – This annual event held on the third weekend of August attracts more than 10,000, from Iceland and abroad. It features a full marathon as well as a 42.2K team relay, a half marathon, 10K, and shorter “fun runs” for kids and adults. It kicks off early in the morning, with races starting and finishing at Lækjargata. Runners also get free admission to all of the city’s pools and thermal baths afterwards.
• Menningarnótt – Menningarnótt, or “Culture Night,” begins when the marathon ends. It’s one of Iceland’s biggest events of the year, and when the streets clear of runners, all types of cultural events fill in that can be found throughout town, in the parks, squares, streets, and individual homes, and ends with an impressive fireworks display.

Iceland in September

• Reykjavik International Literary Festival – This annual festival held in early September is considered one of the most prestigious literary events in Northern Europe and includes Icelandic and international authors. In the past, it’s hosted numerous distinguished writers, including Kurt Vonnegut, Seamus Heaney and David Sedaris. In 2017, it will take place from September 6 to September 9 at various Reykjavik venues.
• Reykjavik International Film Festival – Taking place over 10 days starting in late September, this festival shows a diverse range of non-fiction and dramatic films from more than 40 countries around the world. There are multiple screening venues in downtown Reykjavik that include world premieres and award-winning films from other festivals. It also encourages interaction with other art forms by hosting photo exhibitions, concerts and more.

Iceland in October

• Iceland Airwaves – This festival held over three days in mid-October, showcases some of the best Icelandic indie/alternative music talent, including big names like Of Monsters and Men and Bjork, along with a number of international artists and local DJs. It’s been called the “hippest long weekend on the annual music festival calendar” by Rolling Stone magazine.
• Illumination of the Imagine Peace Tower – On October 9th, John Lennon’s birthday, Yoko Ono invites guests on a complimentary ferry trip to Viðey Island to take part in a gorgeous illumination ceremony.
• Halloween – Celebrating Halloween is relatively new in Iceland, but it’s quickly become one of the year’s biggest party events for adults. There is no trick-or-treating, but restaurants and bars throw costume parties with prizes for the best costume, and many host live music too.

Iceland in November

• Frostbiter – This Iceland Horror Film Festival is hosted in the town of Akranes, about 40 minutes north of Reykjavik, and features horror films and filmmakers from around the world. A mix of horror feature films and shorts are screened over the last weekend in November. It also includes after-parties and other events.

Iceland in December

• Christmas holiday events – Christmas is celebrated in a big way in Iceland. As the days are very short, with just 4 to 5 hours of daylight, you’ll see lots of holiday lights to brighten things up. Annual Icelandic Christmas concerts, one of the oldest holiday traditions in Iceland are hosted, and a group of 13 mischievous trolls known as Yule Lads begin arriving into town, one each night from December 12 through Christmas Eve. Christmas Eve is the most important night of celebration in Iceland, officially beginning at 6 p.m., when the church bells throughout Iceland ring in the Jól. Icelanders typically attend mass which is followed by a Christmas dinner with family.
• New Year’s Eve – New Year’s Eve in Reykjavik is one of the world’s most impressive celebrations. This is the only time of year when private use of fireworks are legal here, and individuals put on their own unique displays that set the skies ablaze. It also includes neighborhood and waterside bonfires that are meant to symbolize the burning away of the previous year’s troubles. Some 500 tons of fireworks can be seen lighting up the sky from every corner of the city starting at around 11:35 pm. There is lots of drinking and singing of folk songs, and some people dress up as elves and trolls. After midnight, the pubs and nightclubs remain open, with the celebrations going on well into morning. At 5 am, locals line up for hot dogs and then head to the hot springs to ease the pain of those inevitable hangovers.
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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

Best (And Worst) Time To Visit Iceland (Month By Month!)

February 19, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Deciding on the best time to visit Iceland for your needs is one of the most important parts of planning an Iceland trip. If you are unsure where to start, we have made it super easy for you by explaining what you can expect month by month.

This complete guide to the months and seasons of Iceland will fully prepare you for your trip. All of the most common questions are answered, such as when to see special things like the Northern Lights, lupine flowers, and puffins.

Planning your trip to Iceland last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Iceland in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are my top picks for your trip :

Top Experiences And Tours In Iceland:

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
• Silfra Snorkeling Tour (Includes photos + only small group)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)
• Whale Watching In Reykjavik (On a luxury yacht)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Great to go with a local)
• Ice Cave Tour And Glacier Hike (Likely to sell out)

Tickets You MUST book in advance:

• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
• Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket (Includes 7-step spa ritual)
• Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket With Drink (Likely to sell out!)

Top picks for places to stay in Iceland:

• Hotel South Coast (Great central location)
• Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast)
• Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach)
• Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price)

Iceland is amazing , but it is also a country that must be taken seriously. Winter in Iceland is beautiful, but you must plan accordingly if that is when you are planning to visit. However, even summer has its drawbacks.

Not to worry, we have all the information you need to check off all of your Iceland dreams. The best months to visit Iceland might depend a little bit on the season, but it depends the most on you!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and sharing your photos and asking for tips and tricks.

High and Low Seasons for Visiting Iceland

Like any popular tourist destination, Iceland has an “on” season and an “off” season. These times are otherwise referred to as high and low seasons (with the in-betweens being called shoulders).

The high season is when the majority of the tourists come to visit. This is generally due to the nice weather and ease of access. This is when most people plan their Iceland itinerary !

But just because the weather is colder in the low season does not mean you should not visit! Many people enjoy the low and shoulder seasons more because there are fewer crowds and it is cheaper, making it the best time to travel to Iceland for a lot of people.

You might be surprised to learn that there are indoor and outdoor activities for all of the seasons. Iceland is beautiful inside and out no matter when you visit.

High Season: June-August

Summer, summer, summer! This is the high season in Iceland for the obvious reasons: weather and temperature. It is undeniably the best weather to visit Iceland with much more sun and higher temperatures.

However, this is also by far the most expensive time to visit Iceland. Airfare, hotel fees, food prices–everything costs a pretty penny during the summer.

Not to mention the crowds. The high season is high season because it is when most people visit Iceland.

While the cost and the crowds are pretty big negatives, the high season has phenomenal positives as well. Especially if you are wanting to go to Iceland for the great outdoors. Most roads will be open during this time as well.

At the end of the day, it is all about your priorities. If weather and being able to spend the maximum time outside every day is your top priority, you are going to want to come to Iceland during the high season.

Shoulder Season: Sept-Oct & April-May

Shoulder seasons are the traveling industry’s best-kept secret. Okay, so it is not super-secret, but it still is not something people talk about as much as they should.

We hear about the high and low seasons all the time, but not so much about the shoulder seasons. They are the very beginning and the very ending of the classic tourism season.

This means that there are still more people than in the low season, but not the huge crowds of the high season. Prices are a little higher too, but still generally reasonable.

The best part of the shoulder season is that the weather is still reasonable. It may not be as great as the high season, but still totally tolerable!

Low Season: November-March

The low season in Iceland is during the typical winter months. For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are not that bad!

While there are some road closures, the country is still quite explorable and traversable during the cold months. And if you are coming to see the Northern Lights, this is the time to do it!

This is also the time to come if you are on a serious budget and need to take advantage of the low season prices. Traveling does not have to empty out your bank account.

The lack of crowds makes it the best season to visit Iceland on a budget! There are some trade-offs for coming during the off-season in Iceland, but there are some definite benefits too. This is actually our favorite time to go!

As we said above, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your Iceland priorities!

Visit Iceland in Summer if You:

-Love the idea of 24-hour sunshine.  Ah, the midnight sun–you are not alone if this is on your bucket list ! If you have dreamt of Iceland’s 24-hour daylight, the summer might be the best time for you to visit.

-Are enamored with the brilliant green of summer.  Iceland starts greening back up in the spring, but summer is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see green everywhere.

The iconic lupine flowers bloom in June and July as well, creating swatches of purple across the landscape. If you want to photograph these flowers make sure to time your trip right.

-Want the best chance to spot whales. Whale watching is a popular tour in Iceland. The magnificent beasts can be spotted offshore from April through October, but the peak time to see them is in the summer.

In summer, more species are in the area and boat tours are less likely to get canceled because of weather.

-Plan on camping. Since the weather is calmer and less unpredictable during the summer, camping in Iceland is a better option for this season. You will have the least rainfall and less wind. This is especially good if you are tent camping.

-Are not bothered by crowds. Everyone loves the gorgeous, summer Iceland scenery. And we mean everyone . Iceland is a super crowded place in summer so keep that in mind.

If you hate crowds, you can still do alright coming in the summer. You will just want to visit the less popular places in the country. They may be less popular, but Iceland is amazing no matter where you go.

-Are totally invested in the traditional sense (read: financially).  If you are not concerned about how much your trip to Iceland is going to cost, that saves you a lot of seasonal concerns.

Iceland is stunning in the summer, and we cannot blame you for wanting to visit when everything is so vibrant.

Just keep in mind that it is already expensive to travel to Iceland, let alone during the summer. During the high season, top tourist destinations and locations charge top dollar for everything.

Visit Iceland in Winter if You:

-Want to spot the Northern Lights.  You can see the Northern Lights in the fall, but there is a caveat. You will have to stay up until around 2 am. If staying up all night is not your vibe, then winter is the best time to go to Iceland to see the Northern Lights!

In winter, there are not many daylight hours. The sun is only up from around 11 am to 3 pm. However, the increased darkness means a better chance of spotting the Northern Lights. Around midnight is the best time to spot them, but earlier or later is possible too.

-Want to visit an ice cave. The incredibly-formed ice caves are some of the best natural features in Iceland and can only be visited in the winter. Tours are lead from November to March.

-Love a good winter wonderland.  There is just something magical about the way snow completely changes Iceland’s landscape. Many people absolutely love coming to Iceland during this time of year because of this.

If you love the beauty of winter, then it is the best time to visit Iceland! Keep in mind that snow has drawbacks since some roads will be closed.

-Want to stand out from the crowd.  While a lot of people enjoy Iceland in the winter, the number of people who go is nothing compared to the summer.

If you are looking to do something a little different and unique, winter just might be the best time for your visit to Iceland. It certainly is not a bad time!

Visit Iceland in Fall if You:

-Do not like crowds but still want to see the Northern Lights.  Even though this is the off-season, it is prime viewing time for the Northern Lights.

This is because the weather is so nice! You do not have to freeze to see the Northern Lights, just come during the fall.

An extra bonus is that there are really not very many tourists during this time. Fall is the best time of the year to visit Iceland if you want to miss the crowds and do not mind coming when it is a little colder.

-Love fall colors. Iceland is not a country that is typically praised for its fall foliage, mostly because there are not many trees. However, what trees there are turn golden along with the grasses, to create a beautiful landscape.

-Want to experience the Iceland Airwaves music festival.  If you have not already heard about it then you might not know what a big deal the Iceland Airwaves music festival is. But if you have heard of it then you already know that it is a must-see!

It is a super popular music festival that happens each fall in Iceland. Usually, it is held sometime in November, but do an internet search to find the exact date.

If you love music, this festival is a great addition to your Iceland plans! Fall is the best time to go to Iceland to check it out!

Visit Iceland in Spring if You:

-Love puffins!   Spring is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see puffins . These adorable birds start arriving around April for their yearly nesting.

Puffins are some of the cutest birds out there, and you can find them all over! If you are coming to catch sight of or photograph them, just check in advance to make sure they will be in the area where you are going.

-Want to road trip without snow.  As we said above, some of the roads can close in the winter. Spring is the best time to come to Iceland for better weather and open roads. That melting snow also helps to make the waterfalls flow stronger.

Not to mention that the world is coming back to life in the most beautiful way! There is something about the colorful bursts of color against the gray of winter that makes spring like no other season.

Best Time to See Northern Lights in Iceland

If you are interested in the Northern Lights, you are interested in Iceland! While there are many different places to see the Northern Lights in the world, Iceland is hard to beat.

Especially considering that there are places where you can watch them from a hot tub! The Northern Lights In Iceland are a huge draw, and if they are the reason you are coming you are not alone!

If you are wondering what is the best month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, there are a few choices. It is possible to see the Northern Lights any month between the end of September and the end of March.

Just like the sun is out all night during summer, the nights are very long in the winter. The closer to mid-winter you visit, the longer the night and thus the higher chance of seeing the lights.

You definitely will not be able to see them during the summer! Winter is when you should book your Iceland trip if the Northern Lights are a priority.

Cheapest Time to Visit Iceland

Unfortunately, Iceland is one of the more expensive countries to visit. We have gone over and over because we believe the experience is worth the money .

However, there are things you can do to make your trip much less expensive. One of those things is visiting during the Iceland off-season.

If it is your goal to do Iceland without dumping a ton of cash, we absolutely recommend the shoulder seasons or winter. Visiting right before or right after the high season of summer can save you a lot of money.

If saving money is a high priority, winter is absolutely the best time to visit Iceland. And pro tip: use grocery stores to cut down on costs even more!

Iceland Weather Breakdown by Month

So far we have been referring to entire seasons, but we know that is kind of broad. Especially when you are planning the trip of a lifetime!

That is why we are going to break everything about Iceland Weather down month by month . This way you can know exactly what to expect.

After all, sometimes the best time to visit Iceland is simply when it best fits into your life. Whenever you make the trip, our month-by-month breakdown will help you make the most of it.

Iceland Weather in January

Happy New Year! January is a great time to visit Iceland. During this time of year you will find highs of about 36 ° F and lows of about 27 ° F.

Is that warmer than you expected? For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are actually quite moderate when compared with a lot of other places in the world!

That being said, January in Iceland is the coldest and windiest month. You will want to bring warm clothing and dress appropriately! Expect lots of snow and ice.

Iceland Weather in February

Honestly, the temperatures do not change much in February. What does change is the hours of daylight!

At the beginning of January, you will only get about 4 hours of daylight a day. By the end of February, this increases to about 10 hours.

February is a great month to come because there is more daylight but the crowds and costs are still at a minimum. Check out our post on things to know before you visit Iceland in February!

Iceland Weather in March

March continues with the increase in daylight hours, with about 13 hours of sunshine a day by the end of the month.

Winter weather continues in Iceland in March , although it starts sticking more to the mountaintops and less to the streets. As with most places, the weather is also better in southern Iceland than in northern Iceland.

However, it is still cold pretty much everywhere. We are getting closer to spring, but you would not really know it yet. The temperatures are still averaging between 27 ° F and 36 ° F.

Iceland Weather in April

The weather finally begins to make a bit of a change in April. Temperatures range between 32 ° F and 41 ° F during this warmer month.

What is more, there is a lot less snow! Spring starts to show its face about this time, with the country beginning to green back up again. Migratory birds start to return, including puffins.

We are also looking at around 17 hours of daylight in April as we officially move out of the low season and into the shoulder season. Don’t forget to check out this post about visiting Iceland in April!

Iceland Weather in May

May is seriously one of the best times to visit Iceland! Especially if you love the sun! The days have 20 hours or more of sunlight. It is also the driest month, with the least rainfall.

The highs are also much closer to 50 ° F, which means you almost do not even need a jacket depending on where you are from.

Of course, you will still want to bring your jackets . While the weather is much more temperate, there will still be some cold days. However, it is totally livable and the country is also becoming so much more green!

Iceland in May is also still shoulder season, which means you will not have to try so hard to find your own space while enjoying the sunshine.

Iceland Weather in June

Welcome to high season! While it is called the high season because it is most popular among tourists, June in Iceland is also the high season for the longest days.

If getting the most out of each day is important to you, then June is the best month to visit Iceland. You can explore for many more hours in daylight.

June nights only last for about 3 hours, beginning around 11:30 PM! Yeah, blackout curtains are a big thing in Iceland summers!

While the highs average around 52 ° F, they can get much higher than that. June is the beginning of summer, and also the beginning of real warmth.

Iceland Weather in July

Now, if you are interested in heat rather than warmth , July might be a better time to visit Iceland. It is the best time of year to visit Iceland for heat, as the hottest month of the year. It is also the least windy month.

The weather in Iceland in July is generally extremely pleasant during this time of the year. While the nights are a little longer, at about 4 hours long, they do not increase by much!

Keep in mind that “hot” does not mean the same thing in Iceland as it does in other places. The average highs are around 56°F. That is part of why it is one of the most popular times to visit because it does not get any warmer than this.

Iceland Weather in August

August is the last month of the high season. While the beginning of the month is still as warm as July, temperatures start to go down by the end of the month.

August is the best time to go to Iceland if you do not mind the crowds due to the fairly standard daylight hours. The sun sets around 9 PM and rises around 5 AM. August has the least cloudy days as well.

Do keep in mind that August in Iceland goes quickly from summer to fall. By the end of the month, the slight bite to the air will have you wishing for warm pumpkin pie and spiced apple cider.

Iceland Weather in September

September still has great sunshine for Iceland, but it does go down to just below 12 hours by the end of the month. It is the warmest month with a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Temperatures are still quite nice, and we are back in shoulder season. This means that you can enjoy the nice weather and decent daylight hours without all the crowds of summer.

By the end of the month the likelihood of snow increases. If you visit Iceland in September , you will want to pack your warm clothing!

Iceland Weather in October

October in Iceland is still technically part of the shoulder season, but it is starting to feel much more like the low season of winter. Daylight is down to about 8 hours a day.

In addition, the average temperature is dropping back down to about 41 ° F. While it is not absolute winter yet, the weather should be taken into consideration at this point.

Bring warm clothes and waterproof ponchos. October is the wettest month in Iceland with an average of 14 days with precipitation.

Although it is colder, October is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to explore with as few crowds as possible. The roads are still open and you can still go pretty much everywhere you want.

Iceland Weather in November

Welcome to winter and the off-season in Iceland. November begins the coldest time of the year, although December and January are colder. This is when the snow starts to fully cover the island.

The average temperature is 38 ° F, but it can get much colder. Daylight only lasts about six hours.

We love to visit Iceland in the low season, and really do think it is one of the best times to visit Iceland. You just have to be prepared for the lower temperatures and the weather.

Iceland Weather in December

The last month of the year is one of the coldest months, second only to January. Temperature highs only reach about 39 ° F. It gets as cold as 21 ° F.

In addition, Iceland in December sees quite a lot of precipitation and snow. Daylight hours are generally pretty short.

However, this does make it and January the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights! However, it is also the cloudiest month, meaning the lights can get obstructed.

Iceland Events and Activities by Month

While the weather is a big deal, sometimes it is not as important as what you can do. After all, most weather is survivable if you plan and dress accordingly.

If you are more curious about what is going on than what temperature it will be, we have you covered! We have broken down the events and activities you can do during each month of the year.

You might be surprised by some of your options, especially during the winter!

Iceland in January

Can you even go wrong with New Year’s Eve when you are celebrating in a different country? Especially Iceland!

The country takes this holiday seriously with partying on New Year’s Eve, sleeping on the first, and shopping on the second.

And then there is Christmas–that is right, Christmas extends into January in Iceland, with the last day being on the 6th. If Christmas is your favorite holiday, then the end of December and the beginning of January is definitely the best time to visit Iceland.

Another great January tradition in Iceland is Thorrablot . This pagan celebration was canceled when Iceland went Christian but has had a resurgence in the last couple of centuries.

It is a week-long celebration of an Icelandic tradition that will not disappoint. If you want to feel like a local, prepare yourself for some things you have never eaten before, like rotten shark meat, boiled sheep’s head, and congealed sheep’s blood.

Iceland in February

February is beloved for the Winter Lights Festival . As a celebration of bright and happy things, you will love the way they light the streets with brilliant fluorescence to chase the darkness of winter away.

Öskudagur is basically Icelandic Halloween. The kids dress up in great costumes, and instead of the “trick or treat” chant, sing for their candy.

The Icelandic Food and Fun Festival is a fantastic festival that celebrates Icelandic cooking. And not even the kind that uses blood and rotten shark meat! It is all about using ingredients native to Iceland and enjoying all the culinary joys the country has to offer.

Iceland in March

Did you know that Iceland had its own prohibition period? Beer with an alcohol level of over 2.2% was banned for the majority of the 1900s but legalized again in 1990.

Iceland celebrates this legalization with the unofficial holiday, Beer Day, on the first of March every year! We think you can probably guess what the main activities are. (Drinking beer.)

DesignMarch is similar to the Food and Fun Festival in that it is a celebration of Icelandic creativity. The event features purely Icelandic products and goods.

Continuing in a similar fashion, the Reykjavik Folk Festival honors centuries of traditional music and song.

Iceland in April

Iceland celebrates Easter for days just like Christmas. Honestly, we do not know why more countries do not do holidays like this! Celebrating with just one day is so minimal!

Easter lasts from Holy Thursday to Easter Monday in Iceland. It is generally spent with family, rather than with huge parties.

April’s other holiday is the first day of summer. Given the dark of winter and the light of summer, and the very small in-betweens, Iceland actually does not traditionally recognize spring and autumn as seasons. So summer starts in April!

Iceland in May

The Reykjavik Art Festival is a big deal in May! People come from all over the world to participate in and experience creativity and fun.

If art is not your thing, May still might be the best time to visit Iceland with the Rite of Spring Festival. We know, we know, we just told you there is no spring in Iceland.

But when Iceland gave up its traditional calendar, they adopted spring and autumn into their new calendar. And they like to welcome spring with heartfelt jazz and folk music!

Iceland in June

It should come as no surprise that a country that willingly eats rotten shark meat celebrates the sea! Iceland’s Festival of the Sea happens in June, and it honors the country’s long tradition of seafaring.

Iceland also celebrates its independence from Denmark every June 17th. Like the 4th of July in the United States, Iceland National Day is a country-wide affair filled with parades, concerts, and general enjoyment of Icelandic culture.

Summer Solstice takes advantage of the Midnight Sun with all-night rock concerts. You can also join the locals in watching the sun set and rise all within the course of 2-3 hours.

Another unique Iceland festival is the International Viking Festival . It is a days-long holiday event that pays tribute to Iceland’s fierce Viking history.

Iceland in July

Innipukinn Festival is another music festival that happens in July. If you are not already getting the sense that you can hit up a music festival basically anytime you visit Iceland, well, you can. Icelandic people really love their music, okay?

They mix things up a bit with LungA , a festival specific to the Icelandic town of Seyðisfjörður . This festival still has music (as any good festival does) as well as art!

Iceland in August

Verslunarmannahelgi–say that five times fast, we dare you! Honestly, if you can pronounce it once we will be impressed. Verslunarmannahelgi happens the first weekend of August and is a quick bank holiday (kind of like Labor Day in the US). People generally celebrate by going camping.

Gay Pride comes the second weekend of August, and nowhere celebrates it as Reykjavik does! With parades, parties, and concerts, this is truly a vibrant and fantastic event.

If you like running, (like, really like) then the third weekend of August is the best time to visit Iceland! This is when the Reykjavik Marathon occurs, and it is another event that attracts people from all over the world!

The marathon wraps up with Menningarnott , a fantastic cultural celebration with cultural events, fireworks, and you guessed it, great music!

Iceland in September

The capital city of Reykjavik has two festivals in September, making it the best time to visit Reykjavik if you are wanting to have some fun during the shoulder season.

First is the Reykjavik International Literary Festival . This one is not just a big deal to Iceland, it is actually the biggest literary festival in Northern Europe!

Next is the Reykjavik International Film Festival . There is just something about literature and film that make them go hand in hand. Both of these festivals draw people from all over the world, but especially the film festival!

Iceland in October

Iceland Airwaves is another music festival but centers on indie and alternative music rather than the traditional folk and rock music of so many other festivals. Of course, folk and rock music still abound!

Iceland also celebrates Halloween in October, although they have not been celebrating it as long as other countries and do it a little differently. It is more of an adult holiday, but still features costumes!

Iceland in November

November does not have a whole lot going on in the realm of festivals and events. What it does have, though, it makes sure to do well.

Frostbiter is Iceland’s Horror Film Festival. So while Iceland does not have much going on in November, it is still the best time to visit Iceland if you love horror!

Iceland in December

Sorry not sorry, but Iceland has the best Christmas lights. Seriously, you have to check them out! Because the country is so dark all the time in December, they go all out with the Christmas lights.

And the way they make such a contrast against the dark? Unbeatable.

Everything about Iceland Christmas is simply unbeatable. From the concerts to the food to the country’s own unique and fun traditions, you will absolutely love it.

New Year’s Eve is filled with fireworks, bonfires, and singing. There are even costumes!

And they do not wrap things up and go to bed at midnight. Iceland New Year partying lasts long into the early hours of the next day.

December is the best time of year to travel to Iceland if you love all the December holidays!

When is the Worst Time to Visit Iceland?

Honestly, there is really no bad time of year to visit Iceland as long as you plan accordingly. After reading this article, you should have a good idea of what each month has to offer in terms of weather, natural events, and festivals.

As long as you visit when you want to and pack according to the season , you will be in Iceland at the right time.

If you want to see the Northern Lights, summer is the worst time to visit Iceland. But, if you want clear roads for your rental car and warm weather, then winter is the worst time to visit.

So, When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

At the end of the day, the best time to visit Iceland is 100% up to you! Whatever your interests are and your budget will determine when you should visit this amazing country.

After all, this is your trip to Iceland. Plan it around what you want to see and do.

Do you want the midnight sun and purple, lupine flowers? Come during summer. Hate crowds and overpaying, but want decent weather? Give shoulder season a try. Does your Iceland bucket list involve the Nothern Lights or ice caves? Winter is your best bet!

Iceland is gorgeous year-round, and you really cannot go wrong no matter when you visit!

We hope our guide to the best time to visit Iceland has been helpful! Feel free to let us know when you decide to go in the comments below. What is your favorite time to travel to Iceland?

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Best places to see the Northern Lights around the world – and when to visit

O ne of the world’s most famous natural sights, the Northern Lights attract people to areas around the Arctic in hopes of seeing the rare display.

Caused by the redirection of particles from the sun that hit the Earth’s atmosphere, the stunning atmospheric phenomenon is seen as the Holy Grail of skywatching and mostly occurs in areas around Norway , Finland , Sweden and Greenland.

The lights can be seen in other parts of the world; the UK has even had sightings in Scotland, Merseyside and Wales this winter during a period of heightened geomagnetic activity.

Unfortunately, such sightings are rare and most people wanting to see the aurora borealis (the scientific name for the phenomenon, coined by Galileo Galilei) will have to travel further north.

To help you in your quest to see the spectacular light show, we’ve put together a list of the best places for seeing the Northern Lights and when to go to maximise your chances.

Read more on travel inspiration :

• Ghostbusters is turning 40 – so I explored the streets of New York like one
• Where’s hot in June? Best destinations for summer sun to escape the crowds
• Barcelona for Valencia and other holiday swaps to make to avoid the crowds

Tromso, Norway

Tromso sits at the centre of the Northern Lights’ oval, meaning that the lights can be visible even when activity is low. According to the tourism website, Tromso is “one of the places in the world with the highest probability of seeing the lights”, and there is “always a good chance of seeing” them between September and April.

Temperatures are moderated by the Norwegian Sea and westerly winds, meaning that they are much milder than usual for the latitude, with averages of between 2C and -1C during peak viewing times (compared to Svalbard, where the average January high is -13C).

When to visit Tromso

Your best chance of seeing the lights in Tromso is between September and April, when the skies are dark enough for them to be visible.

Svalbard, Norway

This Norwegian archipelago is home to more polar bears than people and experiences harsh winters, with the sun not properly rising over the horizon between mid-November and mid-January.

While the islands do not experience total darkness (and therefore you aren’t guaranteed to see the lights), the main island, Spitsbergen, hosts several different types of expedition to give you the best chance of catching the phenomenon. If you’re lucky, you may even see some polar wildlife such as reindeer, Arctic foxes and walruses too.

When to visit Svalbard

The lights season here is slightly shorter than in Tromso, running from September until the middle of March. The best time of day to try and see the lights is between 6pm and midnight.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Located in Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi markets itself as the ‘Official Home of Santa Claus’ and contains a Santa Claus Village and Santa Park. The Northern Lights are visible here on “around 150 nights a year” from August, and the tourism websites provides ideas for nearby locations to view them.

Among its suggestions are the Arctic Garden (a 10-minute walk away) and the top of Ounasvaara fell (a longer, 45-minute walk from the town). Among other snow-based activities – such as sledding – you can join snowmobile trips and ice floating tours as special ways to enjoy the lights.

When to visit Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is one destination where the lights season is exceptionally long, running from late August to early April. However, the best time to visit is during the Polar Night period, from mid-November to mid-January.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland is located roughly 65 degrees north, making the country an excellent option for those trying to see the Northern Lights. They can be viewed in several locations, such as Thingvellir National Park or Kirkjufell Mountain, but the best place to stay when visiting has to be Reykjavik . The Icelandic capital is a typical Nordic city in style and acts as an excellent base for seeing the natural sights of the country in the day before going on a guided trip to see the lights by night.

When to visit Reykjavik

Iceland has a fairly typical length to its lights season, running from September to April.

Abisko, Sweden

Situated in Swedish Lapland, right at the heart of the aurora oval, Abisko National Park receives no light pollution and has one of the lowest rainfall climates in the Nordic area. With many surrounding mountains to keep the skies clear, Abisko also offers the chance to try out several activities such as snowmobiling, fishing and hiking.

The Aurora Sky Station markets itself as “the best place on Earth to experience Northern Lights”, but it seems that this confidence isn’t unfounded: if you were to stay for three nights in Abisko, you’d have an 88 per cent chance of seeing the lights, while the government website also claims that the area sometimes receives “more than two weeks of consecutive northern lights nights”.

When to visit Abisko

Maximise your chances of catching the lights by visiting between mid-September and early March.

Yukon, Canada

With a land area of 483,450sqkm, the Yukon is a vast region which is almost as large as the entirety of Spain. Roughly 80 per cent of the territory is wilderness; it’s home to the longest river in Canada , the second tallest peak in North America (Mount Logan, at 5,959m high), the smallest desert in the world (Carcross, at 1.6sqkm) and dozens of animal species, from moose to brown bears.

With this in mind, while exploring on your own may be tempting, when it comes to viewing the lights you’re best off booking a tour. It’s a good idea to base yourself in Whitehorse (the capital, with a population of just over 28,000), where guided tours will take you to nearby spots to give you the best chance of seeing the light show.

When to visit Yukon

Another place with a lights season lasting nearly eight months, Yukon’s most active time for light displays is between October and mid-November.

Ilulissat, Greenland

The most sparsely populated country in the world, Greenland offers the chance to see the lights with uninterrupted calm and tranquility. With a population of just under 5,000 people, Ilulissat is “rich in Inuit history” and is home to “millions of icebergs”. Low levels of light pollution and many clear nights will offer a good chance of seeing the lights during your stay.

With a population of just over 500, locations such as Kangerlussuaq also offer good opportunities to see the lights but may be too remote for some.

With three new airports coming to the island , access will soon be easier than ever.

When to visit Ilulissat

Along with the rest of Greenland, Ilulissat has a fairly typical season, lasting from September to March.

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Home to “some of the darkest skies in the UK”, some of the islands in the Outer Hebrides sit on the same latitude as parts of Norway and Alaska . The aurora has been seen as far south as Edinburgh , but the islands of Lewis, Harris, Uist and Barra are your best chance for seeing the lights in the UK .

More accessible than most of the other locations on this list, the islands are also generally an excellent spot for seeing different astronomical sights, such as the Orion Nebula, the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy.

When to visit the Outer Hebrides

Lights season in these islands runs from September to April, although the best time to see the lights is during the Equinox and Solstice, so between March and April and September and October respectively.

Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

The second largest city (by population) in Alaska, Fairbanks is situated near the centre of the state and is home to just over 32,000 people. Located on a similar latitude to Iceland, conditions here are perfect for viewing the lights: dark skies, dry conditions and a lack of light pollution.

One of the main benefits of Fairbanks (versus some other locations on the list) is the fact that you don’t even have to leave the city to see the lights, and as a major settlement, all the necessary amenities are available alongside the many tours on offer.

When to visit Fairbanks

The season here lasts slightly longer than usual, stretching from late August to April.

Finnish Lapland

While Rovaniemi has already been mentioned on this list, there are so many worthy destinations in Finnish Lapland that the entire area has to be recommended. Levi is the largest ski resort in Finland but is less crowded than other European resorts, and offers the chance to see the lights on snowmobiles or on reindeer-drawn sleighs. Harriniva is another resort that offers similar activities, with the Muonio River adding another scenic touch. Saariselka offers a different, village setting with excellent spots for viewing the lights only half a kilometre away.

When to visit Finnish Lapland

The official Finnish tourism website states that the best times to see the lights are in autumn and spring, at the beginning and the end of the season, with the season itself running from mid-August until early April.

Seeking a digital detox? Here’s how to go phone-free in Finland

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What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

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With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

Anna Borges

Jessica Puckett

Karthika Gupta

In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

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Can't think of a Mother's Day gift? Give your mom the gift of travel this year

Miami grand prix yellowstone iceland memories will last a lot longer than any mother's day gift.

Autoblog may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Pricing and availability are subject to change.

Looking to go beyond the usual Mother's Day gift? Treat the minimalist mom in your life to the ultimate gift of travel. Say goodbye to clutter and hello to cherished memories with these unforgettable experiences. From a stateside F1 race to a spa day on the island of fire and ice to spending quality time at a few of our nation's most brilliant national parks, the experiences on this list are sure to put a smile on Mom's face. Check out the options below and plan a trip.

Experience F1 at the Miami Grand Prix

If you already live in Florida or can get there relatively easily, this one's for you. Talk about super last minute, but if your mom is a race fan, going to the Miami Grand Prix this weekend could be a check off the old bucket list. It’s the only race in the U.S. this spring, the next race stateside will be in Texas at Circuit of the Americas in October. As with anything last minute you’ll end up paying a bit more than if you had planned this Mother’s Day gift out a bit ahead of time, but can you really put a price on a gift to the woman who raised you to be an F1 fan? I say no.

To find any available hotels for this weekend check out Expedia.com or Vrbo if you’d rather stay at a unique Miami home.  

Must-haves for this Mother's Day trip:

• Comfortable shoes
• Phone Charger
• Check out this list of what Formula 1 recommends to bring along

Hit the slopes for some spring skiing in the Rockies

Skiing in May? With the amount of snow the Rockies have seen this month, it is entirely possible. Ski resorts like Copper Mountain, Breckenridge and Winter Park are estimating mid-May, so a Mother's Day weekend ski getaway could be entirely possible. Just d on’t forget the sunscreen. 

When it comes to where to stay at a ski resort, it's hard to go wrong with a site like Vrbo. There are hundreds of options still available this late in the season at a variety of resorts. A quick search of Breckenridge Ski Resort for Mother's Day weekend shows over 300 properties available, from a huge 20-person ski-in ski-out villa only a few steps away from the slopes to smaller condos averaging less than $100/night before fees.

• Ski goggles

Road trip through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park

Most people in the United States are familiar with Yellowstone National Park, the nation’s first national park. Filled with geysers, waterfalls, hot springs and streams, not to mention thousands of species of animals and plants, Yellowstone is an incredible place to take a road trip. Nearby Grand Teton National Park is less known but still quite popular. Shots of the Tetons towering over lakes and meadows have long filled rolls of film and memory cards. 

As spring arrives and the snow starts to melt, it can be a great time to visit either of these parks, though I wouldn’t blame you for postponing your trip until summer has arrived — as of this writing there is still over 10 feet of snow on the upper mountain at Jackson Hole Ski resort right outside GTNP. The best way to visit both parks? Probably an RV from RVShare.com. Think of it as Turo but for RVs. With so much of both parks to explore, you’ll constantly be on the move; renting out an RV to stay in during the entirety of the trip means you won’t have to keep packing and unpacking as you move from place to place. There are plenty of options to choose from, from towables to Class C motorhomes. You can even get a destination delivery if you don’t want to bother moving it around.

If an RV isn’t your style, or you’re going to stay in one spot for a while, Vrbo is another great option. Unlike AirBNB which offers private rooms for rent, meaning you’re sharing your vacation with someone else, with Vrbo the entire house is yours . Whether you want to stay in a rustic cabin inside the National Park or this luxury mountain modern home is more your speed, Vrbo has you covered. 

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Stay in a vintage Airstream outside of Yosemite National Park

I’ve always loved the idea of camping with my family. I am very comfortable sleeping in a tent, mostly due to the fact that once I am asleep I am dead to the world for the next 7-9 hours, especially after a long day of hiking. Not everyone feels the same way, though, preferring a mattress to a sleeping pad. That’s where a place like Autocamp Yosemite comes in. Just outside of one of the world’s most known national parks is a fleet of vintage, retrofitted Airstreams. 

Featuring air conditioning and heat, memory foam mattresses, Egyptian cotton sheets, coffee service, a private kitchenette and a luxurious shower in a private spa-esque bathroom, these Airstreams offer glamping in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Outside of the Airstream, Autocamp offers a heated pool, self-serve breakfast and a coffee service. Everything to pamper Mom. 

Road Trip around Iceland then spend a relaxing spa day at the Blue Lagoon

This one is for the more adventurous moms out there. The land of fire and ice has gotten more and more popular than when we first visited back in 2017 and for good reason: stunning landscapes, mountains, hundreds of waterfalls and very few crowds. Many cities now offer nonstop flights to Iceland. Get a seat on the north side of the plane for a chance to see the northern lights on your way to Reykjavik. Once you land, get in a camper van that you’ll call home for the next few days, or hop behind the wheel of one of the many 4x4s that we don’t have here in the states and take off.

Whether you’re interested in waterfalls or whale watching, glacier hikes or diving between tectonic plates, you can do it in Iceland. If you do go the camper van route, I highly recommend stopping at Blue Lagoon on your way back to Keflavik Airport at the end of your trip for a luxurious spa experience.

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How to see the northern lights in alaska in 2024.

If seeing the northern lights in Alaska is on your bucket list, this is the year to do it.

How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Chris McLennan | Courtesy of State of Alaska

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says solar activity is intensifying and will peak (at a higher level than previously thought) in 2024. This means travelers will have more opportunities to see the northern lights around the world .

If you're considering a trip to Alaska to witness this atmospheric phenomenon, read on to discover the best months to visit as well as a variety of viewing options.

The best time to see the northern lights in Alaska

Where to see the northern lights in alaska, northern lights alaska cruises.

• Alaska northern lights tours

Courtesy of Travel Alaska

According to the Alaska Travel Industry Association, the best time to see the northern lights is typically from Aug. 21 to April 21 , also known as the Aurora Season. While the aurora can appear at any time of night, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. are the prime viewing hours.

The winter solstice – which is the shortest day of the year, typically falling between Dec. 20 and 23 – is a particularly good time to be in Alaska for the northern lights. This day affords less daylight and more time to spot the aurora. In parts of Alaska, the amount of daylight during the winter solstice can range from around six hours in Anchorage to less than four further north in Fairbanks. Up in remote Utqiagvik (formerly called Barrow), about 320 miles north of the Arctic Circle, there are roughly 67 days of darkness from Nov. 18 to Jan. 23, resulting in even more opportunities to spot the northern lights.

Of course, 2024 is expected to be a little different. Scientists say solar activity will reach its peak from January to October, expanding the typical time frame for spotting the aurora. Ahead of and during your visit, experts recommend utilizing these forecasting resources:

• Aurora Tracker: Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aurora chaser, you'll appreciate Explore Fairbanks' real-time Aurora Tracker . This online reference shows up-to-the-minute information on the temperature, weather and likelihood of catching the northern lights in Fairbanks. Much of the data comes from one of the world's foremost aurora research centers, the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska–Fairbanks . To further assist in your search, you can also download the My Aurora Forecast & Alerts app on your smartphone.
• Aurora Forecast: For other parts of the state, the Geophysical Institute website's Aurora Forecast has daily forecasts of geomagnetic activity up to three days in advance and taken at three-hour intervals. There's also a summation on the webpage of whether the aurora will be active – or not – and where you'll find the best visibility in Alaska.

Courtesy of Aurora Villa

Below are the top destinations to consider when deciding where to see the northern lights in Alaska.

Fairbanks, known as the Golden Heart of Alaska, sits at 65 degrees north latitude, making it an excellent choice for aurora hunters, especially first-timers. It's easily accessible and offers plenty of accommodations , restaurants and other unique attractions . You can also be outside of Fairbanks within minutes to find excellent northern lights viewing locales.

Your chances of seeing the aurora display are excellent as the city sits where the activity of the polar lights is concentrated – under the ring-shaped zone known as the auroral oval. Local experts say that on clear evenings when the sky is very dark, you should be able to witness the skies light up on an average of four out of five nights in Fairbanks.

Where to stay:

• Aurora Villa : Located on the outskirts of Fairbanks, Aurora Villa offers luxurious guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows for viewing the northern lights in a cozy private space. The modern wooden cabin sits on 10 acres surrounded by forested hills, yet it's close enough to the city (less than 15 miles northeast) to explore all that Fairbanks has to offer.
• Pike's Waterfront Lodge : Located along the Chena River in Fairbanks, just minutes from Fairbanks International Airport, this property offers 180 rooms and 28 cabins for aurora-hunting adventurers. As a guest of the lodge, you can request that the front desk alert you when the northern lights appear – no matter the time of day or night. Pike's Waterfront Lodge also offers amenities to keep guests warm while viewing the light show outdoors.

Talkeetna sits about 115 miles north of Anchorage in south-central Alaska, at the base of Denali, the tallest mountain peak in North America. With its old clapboard buildings, log cabins and roadhouse dating back to 1917, this historic town offers a lot of outdoor fun beyond chasing the aurora. Main Street is filled with galleries, shops, restaurants and a brewery. The quirky village, once a former mining town, was the inspiration for the imaginary borough of Cicely in the TV show "Northern Exposure."

If you visit in December, check out the festivities at the monthlong Winterfest. This event features a parade of lights, a tree lighting ceremony and the Taste of Talkeetna food festival, plus entertaining events like the Bachelor Auction and the Wilderness Woman Competition.

When it's time to look up in the sky for the lights, local aurora hunters recommend heading out of town to Christiansen Lake or past the airport on Beaver Road. If you prefer to stay close by, look north into the sky toward Denali from Talkeetna Riverfront Park.

• Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge : Book a Mountain View room for views of Denali and the Alaskan Range. The cozy lodge offers multiple dining venues, including the award-winning Foraker Restaurant.
• Talkeetna Lakeside Cabins : These cabins provide peace and quiet on a private lake just 12 miles from Talkeetna.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is another spectacular place to view the northern lights in Alaska – not to mention one of the top tourist attractions in the U.S. The National Park Service says almost everywhere within the park is free from city light pollution, so if the conditions are right (meaning that's it's clear and dark enough), you should be able to see the aurora borealis, especially when looking toward the northern horizon.

However, when wintertime rolls around – from September or October through April – it's more difficult to access parts of the park, even though it's open year-round. Keep in mind, too, that the lodges closest to the park are typically closed from mid-September to mid-May.

Where to stay: Located less than 15 miles from the Denali National Park entrance, the Aurora Denali Lodge offers year-round accommodations equipped with queen-sized beds, smart TVs and private bathrooms. Rates at the lodge include a continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking and complimentary hot drinks. What's more, the property says visitors can expect plenty of wildlife sightings, such as bears, moose, lynxes, owls and snowshoe hares, just outside your door.

Coldfoot Camp

Coldfoot Camp is situated above the Arctic Circle in the Brooks Mountain Range, near the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The remote wilderness destination is ideal for aurora viewing since it sits directly under the auroral oval. It's also the perfect locale for backcountry snowshoeing, wildlife viewing and dog mushing.

Where to stay: The Inn at Coldfoot Camp offers rustic accommodations located in trailers that once housed Alaskan pipeline workers. The rooms include two twin beds and a private bathroom and shower. Guests can dine at the on-site Trucker's Cafe, which offers breakfast and dinner buffets in the summer months and all-day a la carte dining in the winter. When you're ready for a cold one at the end of the day, check out the Frozen Foot Saloon and order an Alaska-brewed beer.

If you prefer camping and have your own gear , you can camp free of charge on the property during the summer months. Coldfoot Camp also hosts a selection of year-round Arctic adventures and excursions, including a trip to the nearby village of Wiseman for aurora viewing.

This remote wilderness retreat has just 13 full-time residents. Wiseman is located in Alaska's Brooks Range, about 15 miles north of Coldfoot Camp, 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle and 270 miles from Fairbanks. The community sits directly under the auroral oval, making it one of the best places in Alaska to view the northern lights. You can expect to see the spectacle in the sky in Wiseman about 250 nights a year, especially between late August and mid-April.

• Arctic Hive : Arctic Hive has the distinction of being the northernmost yoga studio in the U.S. A common fiberglass lodge allows guests to gather for cooking and meals, and meditation, educational gatherings and other activities are hosted in a geodesic dome. Arctic Hive also offers retreats that include northern lights viewing opportunities in February and March.
• Arctic Getaway : This bed-and-breakfast sits between the middle fork of the Koyukuk River and Wiseman Creek, offering three cabins. While here, you can learn what it's like to homestead in Alaska above the Arctic Circle and enjoy outdoor activities like dog sled rides across the vast wilderness, cross-country skiing , pack rafting and flightseeing by bush plane.
• Boreal Lodging : Reachable by vehicle, Boreal Lodging has several rental options, ranging from lodge rooms to larger cabins with living areas and kitchens.

Located in western Alaska overlooking the Norton Sound of the Bering Sea, Nome is the ending point for the more than 1,000-mile, 51-year-old Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race in March. Once the most populated city in Alaska, Nome had almost 20,000 residents and an average of 1,000 new people arriving daily during the height of the gold rush in 1899. Nome is a little quieter now, with a population of less than 4,000 residents.

Where to stay: Some of the best spots for viewing the aurora are at the end of town, where the 52-room Aurora Inn & Suites is located. The hotel conveniently offers car rentals on-site.

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Situated on the banks of the Arctic Ocean, Utqiagvik is the northernmost city in the U.S. The town, formerly known as Barrow, changed its name in 2016 back to Utqiagvik, its traditional Inupiaq name. Utqiagvik is only accessible by plane: Alaska Airlines and other regional carriers offer service from both Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Where to stay: For accommodations, make reservations at a hotel named for its location – the Top of the World Hotel . The property's comfortable rooms offer views of the Arctic Ocean, and the on-site restaurant, Niggivikput (meaning "our place to eat"), serves traditional local dishes like reindeer soup. While you may be there for aurora hunting, don't miss the excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities: You may see polar bears, caribou, foxes, bearded seals, whales, walruses, migratory birds and the great snowy owl on the tundra.

Borealis Basecamp

One of the best glamping destinations in the U.S. , Borealis Basecamp is a remote 100-acre property that sits within a boreal forest 25 miles north of Fairbanks. The property features 20 individual igloos, resembling those you'd find at Arctic research stations and on polar expeditions, as well as five glass cubes. All accommodations allow guests to gaze up at the aurora and the starry night sky while snuggled up in bed. You'll also enjoy many amenities you'd find in a hotel, including full bathrooms with toiletries and a selection of coffee, hot cocoa and tea.

Choose from a variety of packages that include accommodations and activities like dog-sledding, UTV tours, helicopter sightseeing experiences and more.

Getty Images

One of the best times to cruise to Alaska is during the aurora season. Aurora season sailings to Alaska are available with the following cruise lines this year.

If you're interested in excursions for aurora viewing, look for a line that offers cruisetours, such as Holland America. These tours offer the best of both worlds, giving you time on land and at sea to view the dancing night sky. Holland America's cruisetours range from overnight stays just 2 miles from Denali National Park at the McKinley Chalet Resort to a domed luxury train ride through Alaska's backcountry on the McKinley Explorer. On a Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali, look for Alaska's "Big Five": grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and wolves. Just keep in mind that none of the above cruise lines can guarantee you'll see the northern lights during your journey.

The best northern lights tours in Alaska

Jody Overstreet | Courtesy of State of Alaska

If you want to experience the aurora borealis by joining a tour group, you'll find a variety of options led by expert guides and granting you easier access to many of the state's remote destinations, often with other activities included. (Just be aware that, on any tour or excursion, there's no way to guarantee that the aurora will be visible.) These are some of the best northern lights tours in Alaska:

Arctic Dog Adventure Co.: Aurora Overnight Tour

Dog-sledding is one of the top winter activities in Alaska, and you can choose to do it by day or night. If you want to experience an Alaska dog-sledding adventure while chasing the aurora, book a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Arctic Dog's Aurora Overnight Tour. Highlights of this two-day, one-night excursion – which starts in Fairbanks – are dog mushing your own sled team and glamping in a heated tent under an aurora-filled sky. Other features of the tour include cold weather gear, a photography lesson and Alaska-inspired meals.

Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights & Murphy Dome Tour

Located around 20 miles northwest of the city, Murphy Dome is regarded as one of the best places to watch the northern lights in Fairbanks at nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. This location, once home to Murphy Dome Air Force Station with as many as 250 personnel stationed at the base, now houses a long-range radar station that detects military air threats from overseas.

Alaska Wildlife Guide leads 5.5-hour northern lights tours to Murphy Dome, typically from late August to early April – you can check with the company for day-to-day tour availability. Excursion prices include round-trip transportation from Fairbanks, 360-degree views of the north-facing sky, hot beverages and bottled water – in addition to (hopefully) hours of memorable aurora viewing.

Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights & Arctic Circle Tour

This full-day (14-hour) excursion, also offered by Alaska Wildlife Guide, begins in Fairbanks and crosses the Arctic Circle into Alaska's vast and remote wilderness. The tour includes a drive along the more than 800-mile Trans-Alaskan Pipeline and a half-mile walk along the loop at Finger Mountain with views overlooking the Kanuti Flats (depending on the season). Your guide will also stop along the riverbank after crossing the Yukon River Bridge.

During the tour, you'll learn about the history of the pipeline and hear narratives around the other included stops. A snack and warm beverage are included; then, if conditions are just right, you'll have the chance to see the brilliant light show dance across the dark, clear skies before you arrive back in Fairbanks at dawn.

Alaska Journey Tours: Northern Lights (Aurora) Chasing Tour

Get picked up at your Fairbanks hotel (or meet at the Hyatt Place Fairbanks) for this three-hour northern lights tour in a heated SUV. Guides take photos of tourgoers as well as their own photos of the night sky, which are later shared with the group. Recent travelers praise this tour, and appreciate that the guides are always determined to give them the best northern lights viewing experience.

Alaska Tours: Bettles Lodge Winter Adventure

Hosted by Alaska Tours, the Bettles Lodge Winter Adventure is available January to March and August to December. This excursion includes two, three or four nights at this wilderness lodge about 35 miles north of the Arctic Circle. During the winter days, enjoy outdoor Arctic sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing or stay warm indoors chatting with other guests at the Aurora Lodge. In the evenings, you can bundle up and head outside at one of the best places in Alaska to see the spectacle in the sky.

Prices include round-trip airfare between Fairbanks and Bettles, accommodations at the lodge, meals, a village tour and complimentary use of the Arctic gear (in season).

Alaska Photo Treks: Anchorage Aurora Quest

Alaska Photo Treks offers one of the best ways to see the northern lights in Anchorage – and you'll even learn how best to photograph the aurora, which can be a challenge to capture digitally or on film. This experience, the Anchorage Aurora Quest, is available nightly (when conditions are right), typically from mid-August to mid-April. The approximately six-hour guided tour with a professional photographer explains the science behind the northern lights and provides photo tips for budding aurora photographers in a small-group format. Tourgoers are picked up from their hotel by the guide at about 10 p.m. and return around 4 a.m., though that time can vary based on the aurora forecast.

On the Alaska Photo Treks website, you'll find a list of recommended camera equipment to bring. If you're using a smartphone, the tour group suggests downloading an aurora app and bringing a tripod. The company also advises that you'll be outdoors for about two hours, so you need to dress appropriately for the weather. For the best aurora viewing, the guides usually travel between one to three locations within a 70-mile radius of Anchorage. If you're in town for an extended stay, Alaska Photo Treks also offers a four-day pass for even more nocturnal viewing of the auroral activity.

Alaska Tours: Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights

Chena Hot Springs Resort is known for its therapeutic waters and aurora-viewing opportunities. If you prefer to head out with a guide rather than on your own, book the Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights tour with Alaska Tours. This package includes a four- to five-hour Aurora Expedition tour, four nights of accommodations, and access to resort amenities including cross-country skiing and snow machine tours.

Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs

Day trips are also an option for those who'd like to enjoy the resort amenities and a chance at seeing the northern lights from Chena Hot Springs. This tour offered by Alaska Wildlife Guide includes admission to the hot springs and Aurora Ice Museum as well as pickup from local hotels. Recent travelers say the tour guides are top-notch.

John Hall's Alaska: Alaska's Winter Wonders

For an extended land tour to chase the aurora – and experience Alaska's magical winter wonderland – book this bucket list eight-day adventure with John Hall's Alaska. The company's Alaska's Winter Wonders tour is offered in February and March; it features up to seven nights of northern lights viewing, as well as adventure-filled days with skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing. You'll also take an awe-inspiring flightseeing bush plane ride over Denali National Park, which includes a fly-by of the Foraker, Silverthorne, Hunter and Moose's Tooth peaks before landing on the Great Gorge of Ruth Glacier – the deepest in the world.

If that's not enough adventure, test your skills at dog mushing and curling or take an aerial tram ride. Travelers can also check out the local breweries or just sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views. Additional highlights include spending two evenings under the dancing night sky in one of the domed igloos at Borealis Basecamp, as well as aurora borealis photography lessons.

All-inclusive pricing covers accommodations, meals, luxury land and small plane transportation, fully guided service, gratuities, and baggage handling – plus a black subzero jacket to keep you warm during your Alaska adventure.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship for year-round outdoor adventure and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She writes about the travel and culinary industries for a variety of major publications.

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• It List 2024 The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year The Best New U.S. Resorts of 2023 The Best New Affordable Luxury Hotels of 2023 The Best New International Resorts of 2023 The Best New Cruise Ships of 2023 The Best New City Hotels of 2023 The Most Luxurious New Hotels of 2023 CLOSE Part of It List 2024

It List 2024: The best new hotels of the year, all visited and reviewed by Travel + Leisure's expert editors and contributors.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Our annual guide to the most game-changing hotel openings (and reopenings) has taken Travel + Leisure editors and contributors to 39 countries on six continents. We started with a list of more than 200 soon-to-open hotels, and T+L editors and reporters visited nearly 130 of them over the last 12 months. The endeavor brought us to a swish, antiques-filled hot spot in Fort Worth , Texas’s Cultural District; a hideaway that breathes big personality into Spain’s little-known wine region of Priorat; and an all-inclusive ski resort in Hokkaido, Japan , among other intriguing new hotels redefining the destinations around them.

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Read on for T+L’s 2024 It List — we’ll see you at the rooftop pool. 

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Once in a while, a hotel lands in a new place feeling like it’s always belonged there. The 1 Hotels brand and the Hawaiian island of Kauai were destined to be a match: They share a dedication to sustainability and a reputation for lush greenery. When 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay opened its doors in February 2023, the first thing locals and returning visitors noticed was that unlike its predecessor, the stark-white St. Regis Princeville, it didn’t stand out. On Kauai, that’s a good thing. A khaki-green exterior, rooftop gardens, and a host of endemic plants mean the hotel blends into its surrounding hills, leading all eyes straight to Hanalei Bay. And the bay is well deserving of the spotlight: as if its clear, swimmable waters weren’t enough, the skyline is dominated by the peaks of Mount Makana — also known as Bali Hai, the start of the otherworldly Na Pali coast — and the vibrant rainbows that appear in the sky almost daily. From the ocean-facing rooms and open-air restaurants to the pool with a view, everything at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is built for enjoying this incredible backdrop, blurring the lines between indoors and out. The Bamford Wellness Spa is focused on Hawaiian plant medicine, with personalized facials and massages that make use of local scrubs and honeys. The spa also offers sensory stimulation like hyperbaric oxygen therapy and a zero-gravity float chamber. The new Within Wellbeing program, a first for the 1 Hotels portfolio, curates four- and seven-night retreats focused on personal growth, longevity, balance, nutrition, and more. The 8,000-square-foot Anatomy gym offers personal training and fitness classes daily, and the signature restaurant, 1 Kitchen , serves organic vegetables grown on site, sustainably and locally caught seafood, and biodynamic wines. The hotel makes a concerted effort to support Hawaiian businesses, from the designers in its boutique and the juices and coffee at Neighbors , its all-day café, to its partnerships with nearby farms, surf schools , guides, and nonprofits including the Kauai Humane Society . From $1,200/night. Accessible hotel. — Nina Ruggiero

21c Museum Hotel St. Louis

Courtesy of 21c Museum Hotels

Opening in August 2023 with the not-so-hidden agenda to breathe new life into one of St. Louis’s most historic neighborhoods, this 173-room property — Missouri’s second 21c Museum Hotel — has proven that it is indeed fun to stay at a YMCA. Before the renovated, 10-story neo-Renaissance building found a second life as a hotel, it housed the downtown St. Louis chapter of the YMCA for nearly a century. Today, instead of luring guests with team sports and weight rooms, this Locust Street location does so with art exhibitions, culinary extravagances, and well-curated guest rooms. The building’s Wes Anderson–esque facade was renovated by the preservation pros at Perfido Weiskopf Wagstaff + Goettel , while Bill Rooney Studio reimagined the guest rooms and architecture firm Hufft designed the public spaces. True to the brand’s ethos, the hotel only showcases art from the 21st century, each piece hanging from an unexpected place, like on the walls lining the YMCA’s former basketball court — gloss floors, suspended running track, and all. Altogether, there is more than 14,000 square feet of art exhibition space, all designed to double as event space hosting community activities like altruistic happy hours supporting a different local nonprofit each month. Even the hotel rooms act as mini galleries, featuring unconventional layouts and exclusive artwork from artists with strong ties to Missouri, like Carmon Colangelo. Designers brought in custom Rookwood Pottery tiles to replicate the historic inlays of the basement fitness and swim club, where the phrase “Swim for Life” is still etched on the pool floor, preserving a piece of YMCA history. In contrast, new culinary additions bring a fresh appeal to the hotel — I loved the Northwest Coffee at Good Press cafe and the playful, Spanish-style tapas and cocktails at Idol Wolf restaurant. From $161/night. Accessible hotel. — Kristy Alpert

Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel, Italy

Housed in a 13th-century Capuchin convent, Anantara Convento di Amalfi 's church has been meticulously maintained, as have its Arab-Norman cloisters, where a Franciscan friar leads walking meditations and luxury wedding ceremonies between the cliffs and the sea. Inside, convent benches still line simple, dimly lit halls, inspiring quiet moments of contemplation, though the bougainvillea-draped exterior corridors are just as appealing. Convento is built high into a cliff overlooking one of the most beautiful sections of the Amalfi Coast, serving a sparkling blue view that’s best enjoyed by day from the infinity pool or a table at La Locanda della Canonica , where pizza by legendary Neapolitan pizzaiolo Gino Sorbillo is plated on colorful ceramics. By night, yachts light the dark waters below, adding to the romance of fine-dining restaurant Dei Cappuccini , where chef Claudio Lanuto creates tasting menus using fresh seafood and vegetables from the on-site monks’ garden. The sea is also on display from the outdoor gym and each of the 52 beige-and-white rooms and suites — where reflections of the sapphire Mediterranean offer the only pop of color, save for bowls of bright yellow Amalfi lemons. The only exception is the Suite del Priore (formerly home to the convent prior), with a ceiling covered in preserved frescoes above the four-poster bed. The serene neutral color palette extends to the spa , which includes a hammam and uses Valmont skin care products. Amalfi’s town center is a short walk away, and the hotel arranges some of the area’s most breathtaking excursions , from private sunset cruises and scenic hikes to helicopter tours. From $1,401/night. Accessible hotel. — Nina Ruggiero

Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas, Thailand

Courtesy of Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas

The 40-minute speedboat ride from Phuket to the new Anantara Koh Yao Yai brought me to a secluded property in the middle of Phang Nga Bay. The 27-acre paradise sits on a quiet, powdery stretch of sand shared only with elusive hornbills and macaques. Built from the ground up, Anantara Koh Yao Yai’s 148 rooms are spread across a handful of buildings: two-story penthouses and cozy villas, all featuring private plunge pools, plus family-friendly suites outfitted with darling bunk beds and slides. A minimalist design runs through every butler-serviced room: sleek wood paneling, woven headboards, marble baths with soaking tubs, and copious amounts of light pouring in through floor-to-ceiling balcony doors. The same aesthetic carries over to the 10,00-square-foot spa with a hammam as well as the resort’s main, silver gray–tiled infinity pool overlooking the water. The indoor-outdoor Beach Restaurant serves an ambitious international menu — sushi, pastas, and much more — which excels thanks to fresh, local ingredients. For a more hands-on culinary experience, I tried a cooking class at the on-site Spice Spoons culinary school and learned to make green curry, pad Thai, and mango sticky rice with an expert chef. From $750/night. — Tanvi Chheda

andBeyond Punakha Valley, Bhutan

Chris Schalkx

Luxury safari operator andBeyond’s first property outside Africa and South America, andBeyond Punakha River Lodge is a game-changer for Bhutan. After locating a lush plot of land along the roaring Mo River in the Punakha Valley, the company worked with Fox Browne Creative, known for its high-end African safari camps, to bring the vision to life. The lodge’s eight suites meld the brand’s signature safari-style tents with Bhutanese details such as ornate timber frames, shingled roofs, and kaleidoscopic textiles (woven by Renew, a nonprofit dedicated to women’s empowerment). Bathrooms open onto outdoor showers and have skylights above the soaking tubs, making them perfect for stargazing. The spa features herbal hot-stone baths and poolside loungers with views of the Himalayas. Adventure seekers can opt for bike rides in the mountains and whitewater rafting, complete with elaborate picnics. The lodge also offers guided tours to the gold-trimmed Punakha Dzong, one of the country’s oldest fortresses, and jungle hikes to frozen-in-time villages. From $890/night, all-inclusive. Accessible hotel. — Chris Schalkx

Angama Amboseli, Kimana, Kenya

Emli Bendixen

In the south of Kenya, everybody looks for elephants, but it’s the birds you notice first: lilac-breasted rollers, grey-crowned cranes, turacos, kingfishers, and hornbills. The wildlife is as varied and eye-catching as the landscape, which is dominated by the spectacular Mount Kilimanjaro. No wonder high-end safari operator Angama chose this spot for its new lodge , a follow-up to the game-changing Angama Mara, which opened in 2015. The new property, with its 10 spacious suites, sits in the private Kimana Sanctuary, a 5,700-acre tract filled with wildlife, including antelope, buffalo, elephants, giraffes, impalas, and warthogs. With an infinity pool, excellent farm-to-fork cuisine, and a bar lounge, Angama Amboseli makes for a plush home base for forays into Amboseli National Park. From $1,650 per person, all-inclusive.​ Accessible hotel. — Paul Brady

Bowie House, Auberge Resorts Collection, Fort Worth, Texas

Denny Lee/Travel + Leisure

Arriving at Bowie House on a Friday night, I was surrounded by fun-loving Texans in cowboy hats and fur vests leaving their Rivian SUVs with the valet. They walked through the art- and antiques-filled lobby, richly adorned with Texas longhorns, cowhide-upholstered club chairs, wool rugs, and a riot of horse-themed objects: paintings, statues, photographs, saddles. The wood-paneled bar overflowed with elegantly dressed women laughing over bottles of wine; older couples slurping down oysters by the fireplace, families carving into steaks in the Bricks & Horses restaurant, and young professionals perusing the impressive art (all collected by the hotel’s charismatic owner, Dallas businesswoman Jo Ellard). The equestrian theme continues upstairs in the 88 rooms, each of which is furnished with comforting touches like bar carts, art books, woven leather headboards, and dimmable lighting. Of course it’s no accident that the hotel is practically next door to the Will Rogers Memorial Center, a premiere venue for horse competitions and livestock shows. (When I visited, there was a stock show and rodeo going on.) Now those riders, cowboys, and cowgirls have a place to hang out, in all their western finery. From $609/night. Accessible hotel. — Denny Lee

Broadwick Soho, London

Courtesy of Broadwick Soho

Broadwick Soho ’s mishmash of florid patterns and bold colors make it hard not to fall for this endearingly eccentric London property. Its aesthetic has proven to be catnip to the artists and actors who’ve always patronized Soho, central London’s most louche and creative district. At the ground-floor reception, finished in pretty pinks, big-bucks artworks by Bridget Riley and Francis Bacon are displayed without fanfare. Truth is, they’re easily missed in the midst of so much aesthetic flamboyance. Look out for drinks cabinets secreted within adorable brass elephants, handcrafted by Jaipuri artisans; pretty illustrated countertops specially made in Positano, Italy; and a glitzy mirrored cabinet in The Nook, a residents-only lounge where hotel guests can peruse a British-inflected record collection including classics from Sade and The Rolling Stones. There are opportunities to mingle with locals at rooftop bar Flute, where the gorgeous, golden onyx-topped bar counter is offset by some good-humored kitsch: animal-print fabrics, cork-clad walls, palm-print carpets. This might be a lighthearted spot, but they take cocktails seriously; a bartender educated me on Soho’s long standing as a center of mixology before presenting me with a perfect paloma, and the atmospheric city views from the terrace make this a top spot for date nights. Named for the owner’s mother, dimly lit basement restaurant Dear Jackie is more discreet and feels fun and indulgent — my rich, punchy puttanesca pasta was delicious and a good value at less than $20. Sated on all the delights of Soho, within and beyond the hotel, guests can retire to one of 57 comfy, characterful rooms finished in soft pastels, distinguished with unique artworks, and generously stocked with toiletries by chic Sicilian outfit Ortigia. From $753/night. Accessible hotel. — John O'Ceallaigh

Bulgari Hotel Tokyo

Courtesy of Bulgari Hotels & Resorts

“We bring the art of Italian living wherever we go,” Silvio Ursini, executive vice president of Bulgari Hotels & Resorts , told me at the opening of the Bulgari Hotel Tokyo . The 98-room property, which occupies the top five floors of the 45-story Tokyo Midtown Yaesu tower, is the eighth in Bulgari’s small, luxurious portfolio (a ninth, in Rome, opened in June). It feels like a Roman holiday in Japan — where both arigato gozaimasu and grazie mille are completely acceptable ways to thank someone for a glass of Champagne. Guests can choose from an Italian restaurant helmed by Niko Romito, an acclaimed chef born and raised in Italy, or an eight-seat omakase counter from chef Kenji Gyoten, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant in Fukuoka, Japan. The hotel’s design is a pastiche of Japanese artistry. In my room, the ceilings were hand-painted with five layers of gold paint by local craftspeople and were second only to the alluring black granite bathtub. My favorite Italian design piece was the one I visited each morning, when I would take the elevator to the 40th-floor, and plunge into the spa’s 15,000-square-foot pool. Its floor is breathtaking, made of mosaic tile and Venetian glass in an entrancing shade of green that glimmers gold when natural light shines through the water. From $1,700/night. Accessible hotel. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Cap Karoso, Sumba, Indonesia 

Frédéric Lagrange

Nothing builds anticipation like a 45-minute drive between corn fields and the sapphire Indian Ocean, on a road lined with flora so lush vines spill onto the pavement. It wouldn’t have taken much to enchant me after that trip, but the welcome I received at Cap Karoso , a 15-acre beachfront resort on an undeveloped island east of Bali, still managed to overdeliver. The staff greeted me by name and handed me an indigo ceramic cup containing a heavenly hibiscus-coconut elixir: precisely the type of off-the-grid charm that makes this 47-room, 20-villa property so singular. The food and drink from the Beach Club restaurant and Apicine Bar were flavored with local ingredients — think papaya spritzes and handmade gnocchi with Sumba cashew foam, courtesy of executive chef Antoine LeVacon and consulting mixology maestro Nico de Soto. The guest chef–only restaurant Julang stimulated my tastebuds with dishes like king prawn with asparagus, cardamom foam, and ponzu sauce courtesy of Tokyo-born chef Katsuaki Okiyama, the guest chef during my stay. This is a place well equipped for downtime, thanks to the Malala Spa, which uses healing herbs and rituals for its treatments, and has two picturesque pools, sunlit accommodations with generous bathtubs, and commissioned artwork that plays on motifs from ancient Sumbanese culture. Nearby, traditional Marapu villages, crystalline lagoons, and surf breaks are also ripe for exploration. Fiery sunsets mesmerized me from the beach, where at low tide locals fished for their dinners, but nothing captivated me quite like my interactions with the predominantly Sumbanese staff, who are overwhelmingly warm. From $300/night. — Kathryn Romeyn

Capella Sydney

Samantha Falawée/Travel + Leisure

When Capella Sydney opened in March 2023, the news created a buzz. That might have been because it was Sydney ’s first luxury hotel to open in almost a decade — and is housed in a handsome, early 1900s building in the heart of the city that once held Australia’s Lands and Education offices. Or it may have been because it was the first property outside of Asia from the Singapore-based Capella Hotels & Resorts, which was voted the No. 1 hotel brand by readers in last year’s World’s Best Awards. Walking into the lobby entrance, I passed four multimedia pieces by aboriginal artist Judy Watson that depict motifs of the Indigenous Eora, the original inhabitants of the land on which Sydney now stands. Hanging from the ceiling of Aperture, the indoor courtyard-garden area serving finger sandwiches and afternoon tea, is a mesmerizing, flower-like light installation by Dutch duo Drift — the only other one like it is housed in the permanent collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam . In the hotel’s 192 rooms, dramatic black steel window frames and soothing dove-gray marble blend unobtrusively with a warm, neutral palette. Brasserie 1930 has a modern but cozy atmosphere. My eggs Benedict, served on a fluffy crumpet with truffle hollandaise, sautéed kale, and smoked Berkshire ham, was so delicate and delicious, I ordered it every morning of my stay. In the evening, I headed to the McRae Bar to try craft cocktails inspired by popular drinks of the late 1800s to early 1900s – and was  surprised to come across a local “Culturist,” a rotating cast of local experts from mixologists to magician Harry Milas , who delighted me, along with a handful of guests, with a sleight-of-hand show. The hotel is located within walking distance to the city’s Royal Botanic Garden, the ferry and train stations at Circular Quay Wharf, and the Sydney Opera House. After a day spent sightseeing, I headed to Auriga Spa on the sixth floor. Swimming in the 66-foot heated pool, under a glass ceiling flooded with sunlight, was the perfect relaxing moment. From $650/night. Accessible hotel. — Samantha Falewée

Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, France

Courtesy of Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel

As I opened the door to my beachfront room at the Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel , I was greeted by a perfectly framed view of a lone yacht perched on a lightly rippled Mediterranean Sea. The scene was so quintessentially Côte d’Azur that it felt scripted just for my arrival. Considering this property’s silver-screen credentials, maybe it’s not so far-fetched a thought. The address of choice for Hollywood’s A-list since the first Cannes Film Festival in 1946, the Carlton, like the most-loved cinema hits, was due for a modern remake. After a two-year closure, La Grande Dame, as the hotel is known along La Croisette, has emerged with a new swagger, whether that’s from the false ceilings pulled away to reveal hidden frescoes in the lobby; a refreshed dining scene that includes Rüya, the French Riviera’s first Anatolian restaurant; or the rooms, smartly restyled in soft grays, light pinks, and off-whites. The color palette was deliberately chosen by designer Tristan Auer to showcase the region’s famous light as it streams through the bay windows. With its heritage-listed belle époque facade relatively untouched, the hotel’s biggest change is felt on the side facing away from the sea. Gone is an unsightly car park, replaced by two expansive wings split into a clutch of exclusive branded residences and an immense 10,770-square-foot penthouse. Tucked inside this new horseshoe form is a tranquil garden, Cannes’ largest infinity pool, and enough space to fit an ice rink come winter. From $550/night. Accessible hotel. — Chrissie McClatchie

Casa Pestagua, Cartagena, Colombia

Kiko Kairuz/Courtesy of Casa Pestagua

Thanks to a $15 million renovation, one of Cartagena’s most beautiful colonial mansions now shines as a 16-room boutique hotel, Casa Pestagua . The 18th-century facade blends seamlessly into the charming squares, cobblestoned streets, and colorful buildings of the historic Old City, and inside, guests enjoy amenities that include a bar and a gym. AniMare, the restaurant, serves both traditional dishes like ceviches and seafood cazuela — a stew made with coconut milk and vegetables — and more contemporary offerings like açaí bowls. For guests in need of a break from the city, the hotel offers day trips to Barú Island; you can even stay overnight in one of six beachfront bungalows (exclusive to guests of Casa Pestagua and its sibling property Casa San Agustín) for an additional cost. From $500/night. ​ — Susmita Baral

Cayo Levantado Resort, Dominican Republic 

Courtesy of Cayo Levantado

As the only resort occupying the palm-fringed Cayo Levantado island off the coast of Samana Bay, this luxury all-inclusive wellness property, which opened its doors in the summer of 2023, whisks guests away to a serene world that blends ancient traditions with modern practices. Travelers get a sense of what’s to come as soon as the resort’s private boat approaches the island’s Victorian-inspired dock, where turquoise waters backed by lush tropical greenery conceal 218 spacious guest rooms, suites, and villas with private plunge pools and patios. Dominican architect Ramón Emilio Jiménez has done a spectacular job of introducing a sense of place by incorporating local materials and handmade decor like palm leaf-shaped sconces and Guayacán wood trays. However, the highlight of Cayo Levantado is the wellness experiences, which are organized around four “paths”: refresh, restore, relax, and renew. For each, guests can choose from a long list of activities such as breathwork classes, yoga, sound baths, Tibetan singing bowl meditation sessions, cold plunges, and even a Shamanic cleansing ceremony — many of which take place in the resort’s open-air wellness center. 

Nutrition is also an important part of any stay. Some of my favorite meals were at the resort’s Santa Yuca restaurant. This idyllic open-air space serves healthy dishes, like a fantastic grilled watermelon salad with avocado cream sauce, prepared with ingredients that literally grow right next to the tables. From $450 per person per night, all-inclusive. — Dobrina Zhekova

Château des Fleurs, Paris

Mr. Tripper/Courtesy of Château des Fleurs

The family-run Vivre-Les Maisons Bertrand group has been having quite the opening season in the Triangle d’Or section of Paris’s eighth arrondissement with the debut of Château des Fleurs , a boutique escape just off the Champs-Élysées. Designed by Barcelona firm Quintana Partners, the 37-room hotel is a highly designed flurry of custom flourishes, from the Gaudí-inspired doors to the elegantly sculpted wooden gym equipment to the ebullient motif of carved wooden balls that pops up throughout the lobby, evocative of the bubbles in the glass of Champagne that greets guests staying in a suite. With hammam-style showers and a railway-style dressing area, tufted velvet sofas and a claw-foot tub within feet of the bed, the Belle Époque sanctuaries can be hard to leave. What feels most 21st-century about this 1910 hotel is that the lobby bar and snug micro-restaurant, Oma, which means “mother” in Korean, is as much a meeting space for guests and city residents as it is for pulling out a laptop to work. From $490/night. Accessible hotel. — Christine Muhlke

Club Med Kiroro Grand, Hokkaido, Japan 

Lydia Price/Travel + Leisure

With its new property in Japan, Club Med has achieved an enormous feat: making it easy for families to take a far-flung international ski trip. The brand’s latest all-inclusive resort, Club Med Kiroro Grand , is on the northern island of Hokkaido, where heaps of fluffy snow are blown in on Siberian winds. The towering 266-room property immerses guests in an enchanted forest. You’ll find giant sculptures of woodland creatures, mushroom-shaped light fixtures, and foliage-covered ceilings in the sprawling complex, which includes an indoor pool, a kids’ campus, and a spa. My favorite amenity was the outdoor onsen, where I soaked in mineral-rich spring water every afternoon. The main dining hall serves a diverse spread of comfort food designed to please the broad range of nationalities staying at the resort. Dishes included bulgogi, pad see ew, and roasted chicken with mashed potatoes — all freshly made by Kiroro’s chefs and bursting with layers of flavor. Apart from the multicultural buffets, the resort houses three specialty restaurants. My eight-course sushi feast at Ebisu was a masterpiece made almost exclusively from local ingredients. Not to be outdone, barbecue restaurant Kaen served the most succulent Wagyu beef I’ve ever tasted, with other Hokkaido-sourced produce like scallops, pork, and salmon on the guest-manned grills. And at the lively Ogon, I took a crash course in making my own Japanese hot pot. All three restaurants are mere steps away from the lobby doors; in fact, everything at Kiroro Grand is less than a 10-minute walk away from the guest rooms, making long treks schlepping skis and disgruntled children a thing of the past. From $2,250 per person for seven nights. Accessible hotel. — Lydia Price

Como Le Montrachet, Burgundy, France 

Courtesy of COMO Hotels and Resorts

Though new to the scene, Como Le Montrachet — the luxury hospitality group’s first venture in France — is quickly becoming a go-to for local and visiting Burgundophiles alike. At the head of Puligny-Montrachet’s sleepy town square, this breezy inn combines contemporary design with its sturdy, rustic, 19th-century bones, and even in its infancy drew a consistent crowd for dinner at adjoining restaurant Le Montrachet. The wine selection is, of course, world-class — it’s never difficult to find great wines when in France (especially in Burgundy), but the Le Montrachet team truly takes the selection and service to the next level in its quest to highlight the region’s best at a variety of price points. Apart from a few local winery visits (a must), my time spent here revolved around the seasonally driven menu and its accompanying pours, each with a sommelier’s anecdote or two. And I’d be remiss to not call out the cheese cart, which could easily be considered life-changing, although certainly not for the faint of heart. Accessible from Paris, Dijon, Lyon, and nearby Beaune, Como Le Montrachet is an epicure’s sanctuary, and an unpretentious one at that (you certainly don’t need to be a wine expert to feel welcomed here). And in true Como fashion, each of the hotel’s common areas and guest rooms are directly inspired by the surrounding environment — a theme that defines Le Montrachet’s culinary program in a holistic harnessing of terroir. From $377/night. Accessible hotel. — Céline Bossart

Como Metropolitan Singapore

Last September, the Singapore-based Como group unveiled Como Metropolitan Singapore , the brand’s first hotel in its home country. Located on Orchard Road — the city-state’s famed shopping and lifestyle hub — the hotel is part of Como Orchard, an immersive experience spread over 19 floors, which showcases the group’s strengths in hospitality, wellness, fashion and cuisine. Designed by Atelier Ikebuchi and Milan-based Otto Studio, the interiors feature clean lines, contemporary aesthetics, and furniture from noted Italian brand Giorgetti. A bonsai tree marks its discreet entrance, while the lobby features a huge LED display of flowers by artist Thomas Hilland and locally sourced coffees served by Bruno, the robot barista. The 156 rooms are full of thoughtful touches, such as amenities from wellness brand Como Shambhala, butler hatches, and refillable water bottles. A newly launched Sleep Dreams package encourages deep relaxation in your room using a device that plays low-frequency sound waves. Como Shambhala offers yoga, pilates, a 1,500-square-foot gym, and innovative treatments like hot and cold immersion therapies. (I tried the Oxygen Therapy, which involved destressing in a lightly pressurized hyperbaric device.) International dining concepts like Cedric Grolet Singapore and Cote Singapore draw both travelers and locals to the property; the former serves Grolet’s exquisite fruit and flower-shaped pastries, sandwiches, and teas. Cote Singapore — the Michelin-starred U.S. restaurant’s first international outpost–blends American steak preparations with Korean BBQ, offering top-quality beef cuts and a lively, clubby atmosphere best described as “sexy Yakuza den.” From $300/night. Accessible hotel. — Shamilee Vellu

Curtain Bluff, Antigua

Courtesy of Curtain Bluff

Tucked away on Antigua’s southwest end, this 72-room property recently unveiled a multimillion-dollar renovation that combines old-school elegance with modern flair. It’s evident in the details: the rattan chairs from the ‘80s that have been re-lacquered; the classic turquoise and green bedding now juxtaposed with contemporary tiling. This delicate dance between welcoming the new and continuing the legacy of late founders Howard and Chelle Hulford is what makes Curtain Bluff one of the most coveted resorts in Antigua. The resort’s new two-story, state-of-the-art wellness center is a hideaway, complete with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, an expanded fitness center, and a yoga pavilion. After your massage, retreat to the upper balcony to take a dip in the cliffside Jacuzzi. The resort’s most popular suites have been outfitted with marble soaking tubs and large walk-in showers that leave you feeling energized and ready for the day. Guests will still find all the familiar amenities that make Curtain Bluff so special: four full-size tennis courts, delicious Caribbean-French dishes at restaurants Sea Grape and Tamarind, and a host of sports and water activities for families. Be sure to carve out time to sample the resort’s international wine cellar during a tasting with head sommelier Glouster St. Ville. From $1,850/night. Accessible hotel. — Jasmine Grant

Dawn Ranch, Sonoma County, California

Maya Kachroo-Levine/Travel + Leisure

The spicy, amber-rich scent of cedar greeted me before I saw the wooden cabins at Dawn Ranch , which form a horseshoe around a grassy lawn dotted with cornhole boards and a giant Connect 4 set. The whimsy of this redwood-shaded hideaway from the hospitality group behind Marram Montauk reflects the carefree energy of Guerneville, a town on the Russian River. The 87 accommodations include seasonal glamping tents, but I opted for a cottage, which had a double-sided fireplace lined with green tile. The property has its own dock on the river and is just 14 miles from both Healdsburg’s posh wineries and the Pacific coast. Guests can also borrow bikes for a quick jaunt to the famed 1,400-year-old Colonel Armstrong redwood. Don’t let the allure of Sonoma fine dining pull you away from the Ranch’s restaurant: helmed by two Argentine chefs, it has South American undertones, with dishes like yellowfin tiradito at dinner and Paraguayan chiapas , a gluten-free cheesy bread, for breakfast. From $450/night.​ Accessible hotel. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa, Kefalonia, Greece

Courtesy of Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa

Covertly nestled on a cypress-clad hillside on Kefalonia island, this unpretentious, all-villa hotel in a profoundly soothing setting is a rare find on Greece’s Ionian Sea. Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa was born out of a love for the sprawling, fertile isle shared by London-based interior architect and designer Maike Gruna and her Greek-Australian husband with Kefalonian roots. Gruna crafted 12 minimalist, honey-hued stone villas that meld inconspicuously with surrounding olive groves. The three-bedroom sea-view villa, framed by beamed timber ceilings and dressed in neutral tones, stands out as Eliamos’ premium offering — expansive terrace included. En suite bathrooms feature walk-in showers, matte earthenware sinks, and soul-grounding pale gray concrete floors. Beside Villa 103’s private saltwater infinity pool, I sunk into a plush sunbed and tuned into soporific island time as distant sailboats floated on electric, indigo waters. At the exceptional alfresco restaurant, chef Sokratis Maligkanis turns out creative, seasonal Mediterranean comfort fare amid a riot of pink and violet wildflowers and aromatic herbs like sage and rosemary. He sources hyperlocal raw materials like forest mushrooms foraged from looming Mount Ainos for luscious risotto. Ripe summer peaches are marinated and laced with extra-virgin olive oil, making for a sweet alternative to classic tomato salad. Foodies, take note — only guests can dine here. For the fitness-minded, there’s a communal lap pool and an all-wood outdoor gym where yoga classes are also held. Hop on a complimentary e-bike to explore nearby beaches or rent a motorboat and reach isolated coves. To completely unwind, book an in-villa massage or reflexology treatment. From $700/night. — Helen Iatrou

Estelle Manor, Oxfordshire, England

Courtesy of Estelle Manor

Don’t let the stately Jacobean facade fool you: There’s nothing stuffy about Estelle Manor , a 60-acre estate in the green pastures of Oxfordshire, about an hour northwest of central London. A country offshoot of the U.K. capital’s private club Maison Estelle, the resort is all Roaring Twenties, devil-may-care razzle-dazzle. It all feels cinematic and delightfully British, including the way the house car — a Land Rover, naturally — clatters over the pebbles of the tree-lined drive and the cheery apricot glow of the fire that seems to flicker in sync with the DJ. The 108 guest rooms are outfitted in a flamboyantly aristocratic style: tasseled pillows, faded kilim fabrics, four-poster beds, and lacquered mini-bars crammed with everything from elderflower kombucha to collagen eye patches. Amenities include a gym, a co-working space, a chic boutique, and three good restaurants: the Billiards Room, a buzzy Chinese venue; the Glasshouse, which serves heritage vegetables and Cotswolds chicken; and the Brasserie, with seasonal favorites like Oxford-cheddar soufflé and Alaskan king crab. From $500/night. Accessible hotel. ​— Nicole Trilivas

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: the company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Faraway Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts 

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

Martha’s Vineyard — with its golden beaches, illuminated lighthouses, seafood shacks, and periwinkle hydrangea bushes — is the prototype for a classic New England summer escape. And while structured navy stripes and fish paintings have their place, Faraway Martha’s Vineyard trades the old-school nautical aesthetic found throughout the Vineyard for something breezy, refined, and whimsical. Owner Blue Flag Partners and design firm Workshop/APD transformed the Vineyard’s beloved old Kelley House and its surrounding buildings into the second Faraway location (the first opened on Nantucket in 2021). Bohemian influences from the 1960s and ‘70s are felt throughout the 58 guest rooms and suites — which range from standard rooms in Kelley House to two-bedroom suites in the adjacent houses — and in the lobby, with ceiling-high bookshelves adorned with bursts of jewel-toned florals and black-and-white tapestries. I was one of the first to check into the totally reimagined Edgartown hotel in July, prime time for a seaside stroll and a lobster roll — both of which I found just a short walk from the hotel’s central location. The hotel’s restaurants honor the location’s historic roots with a fresh take: The Newes From America, an Edgartown institution that actually predates the hotel by a few centuries, serves classic pub fare, while the lush outdoor Pelican Club offers tropical cocktails and delicious sushi (I ordered The Pelican maki roll and the spicy tuna crispy rice). At the center of the property sits a new pool lined with loungers and cabanas, a large hot tub, and a fitness center. From $695/night. Accessible hotel. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Fontainebleau Las Vegas 

Connie Zhou/Courtesy of Fontainebleau Las Vegas

Since Fontainebleau Las Vegas was first announced in 2005, there has been an infusion of more than $3.7 billion into this 67-story resort. And after walking through its cantilevered porte-cochere, I can say, as a Vegas local, that it’s been worth the wait. Beyond the lobby is an impressive art collection including a 46-foot sculpture by Urs Fischer and paintings by Richard Prince. The design, curated by the resort’s creative director Peter Arnell and executive vice president of design John Rawlins, feels cohesive, especially with a six-acre pool deck that boasts every aquatic feature imaginable, from serenity pools to full on bacchanals. The nearby spa features a performance sauna where professional dancers use choreographed towel flicks to warm the guests, and the massive co-ed thermal area is the city’s largest, with hydrotherapy pools, cold plunges, a snow shower, a salt-mist cave, and an herbal inhalation room. Rooms start at a generous 488 square feet and feature striking views of the Strip and Las Vegas Valley; I particularly loved the massive sunken tub in my Royal Suite. There are 36 restaurants and bars: my favorites included Kyu (an Asian-inspired, wood-fired BBQ) where the nam prik –sauced kale chips and wagyu tartare mixed with brûléed bone marrow was a revelation; Papi Steak, serving some of the city’s best prime selects; and Ito, where booking one of the 12 seats at the swank omakase counter affords access to the resort’s super-exclusive members’ club, the Poodle Room, before and after dinner. For more convivial pursuits, visit the on-site outpost of white-hot Miami nightclub Liv and Liv Beach. From $300/night. Accessible hotel. — David Morris

Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica

Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

The Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo , originally opened in 2004, got a major update that finished at the end of 2023, including an expanded kids’ club, a reimagined, adults-only, infinity-edge pool with cabanas and chairs for rental, and a spectacular beach club. I was particularly fond of the new Virador Beach Club , which invites you in with its neutral palette and amazing Mediterranean eats. (The labneh and moussaka were two of my favorite noshes, but the whole menu, orchestrated by chef Khaled Natour, offers something truly different on the Gold Coast.) The property also has a new wellness shala, basically a serene tree house hovering over the resort and gazing out toward the water. The architectural marvel perfectly blends with its environment, and I found it immediately relaxed me before my sound-healing session, in which the vibration of gongs and sound bowls lulled me into a trance. Next, I visited the separate spa building for a Tsuru Cacao Ancestral Ritual before retiring to the hydrotherapy pools. The property is sprawling, at 120 acres, which you can explore on foot or e-bike, and the activity roster is impressive — golf on the 18-hole Arnold Palmer–designed green, local rum tastings, and surfing lessons are all on offer. Whether you venture out to the waves on a standard board or get a lesson on the new eFoil surfboard that’ll have you floating above the water, it’s all about pura vida . From $1,200/night. Accessible hotel. — Samantha Leal

Gardiner House, Newport, Rhode Island 

Michael P.H. Clifford/Courtesy of Gardiner House

Entering the newly opened Gardiner House in Newport, Rhode Island, felt like stepping back into the Gilded Age. Inspired by the Gardiner family’s 1860s mansion, the luxury 21-key boutique hotel is located on Lee's Wharf — a piece of prime real estate facing Newport’s idyllic marina. Though it opened in fall 2023, just as Newport hit the off-season, Gardiner House turned the city’s hospitality scene on its head by quickly becoming a social hub for stylish locals and in-the-know winter visitors. The heartbeat of the hotel is the Studio Bar and lounge right off the foyer, where art-littered, dark-green walls; a real-wood fireplace; and an eclectic assortment of velvet sofas, comfy accent chairs, and oversized ottomans strike the perfect balance between cozy and chic. There’s a variety of delicious craft cocktails to choose from, and a small menu of light bites: yellowfin with avocado, kobe beef sliders, and truffle fries were my favorites. The property’s culinary portfolio will expand this spring with the debut of a second-floor Mediterranean restaurant with an outdoor terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows offering an unobstructed view of Newport Harbor. Most of the rooms and suites have harbor views, too, plus simple, beachy decor and thoughtful amenities — Matouk linens and Ortigia toiletries, for example — throughout the space. Guests can walk to Thames Street, Newport’s buzzy downtown area, in less than a minute where a myriad of mom-and-pop shops, vintage boutiques, and restaurants await. From $725/night. Accessible hotel. — Annie Archer

Gran Hotel Mas d'en Bruno, Priorat, Spain

Located in Tarragona, a province roughly an hour-and-a-half outside of Barcelona, Gran Hotel Mas d’en Bruno is set between hilltop villages, undulating country roads, and the Siurana River. On arrival guests pass through rows of Grenache grapes before being welcomed into a 500-year-old building, complete with arched windows and terra-cotta rooftops. Consider the 24 rooms to be siblings; some have soaking-tubs, others fireplaces. All the marble, from the coffee tables to the Catalonia-sourced alabaster lamps, hails from Spain. Organic shapes echo throughout the hotel, which comprises the main house (or masia ) and the separate atelier annex, which holds a few of the guest rooms and sits along miles of vines owned by winery Clos de L’Obac. The rounded edges of the bed headboards and wood accents seamlessly merge with exterior features such as terraces or balconies. Once the former site of an olive press, the spa offers a single treatment room, as well as a hot tub and a stone-walled soaking pool. The restaurant, which has views of the property’s swimming pool and proprietary vineyards, transforms from morning to night. During the day, enjoy lunch at Tarraco, which combines Mediterranean and Italian fare, and after sunset try the tasting menu with local wine pairings at Vinum (à la carte offerings are also available). Arrange for a rock-climbing or hiking excursion in Serra de Montsant Natural Park or opt for a bike ride through the region (four electric bikes are complimentary). From $450/night. Accessible hotel. – Alexandra Cheney  

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll, Iceland 

Courtesy of Highland Base – Kerlingarfjöll

Iceland is famous for Ring Road, the 820-mile route circling the island, but tucked in the center of the country is a remote region known as the Highlands. It’s hard to access, with only a few unpaved roads, and in the winter, you must be driven there by a guide. Now, at the edge of the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range, a new hotel — Highland Base — is letting travelers post up in comfort. “We're basically putting a destination here in the middle of the island,” Magnús Orri Marínarson Schram, Highland Base’s general manager, told T+L. The journey here typically takes four hours from Reykjavík, but mine took six due to unpredictable weather — and the destination was worth every minute of the journey. Highland Base has 46 hotel rooms, six one-bedroom private lodges, seven huts, and a campsite. My room had all the luxe amenities I could ask for, but didn’t feel too out of place in the middle of nature thanks to the earthy tones that match the exterior landscape. The underground passageway connecting the hotel rooms to the main building was a nice touch for guests (read: me) who didn’t want to face the outdoor elements before every meal. The menu featured hearty, seasonal dishes like mushroom soup made with coconut cream; Icelandic lamb soup with rutabaga and potatoes; and pan-fried Arctic char. But the real gem is the daily waffle bar, which is a touching tribute to the site’s past: It used to be a ski school that served waffles to kids after their lessons. Opening this year is a sauna and three geothermal pools with water sourced from the nearby hot springs; Kerlingarfjöll has the third-largest geothermal area in all of Iceland. From $430/night. Accessible hotel. — Susmita Baral

Hotel 1928, Waco, Texas

Courtesy of Hotel 1928

Over the past decade, Joanna and Chip Gaines have won fame for making old homes in and around their hometown of Waco, Texas, new again. On their TV show Fixer Upper, they uncovered countless shiplap walls and helped popularize the modern farmhouse trend. Their shoppable Magnolia empire now offers everything from wallpaper to kitchenware to baked goods — and, with the recent opening of Hotel 1928 , luxurious lodgings in downtown Waco.

Hotel 1928 — in a Moorish Revival building constructed in, yes, 1928 — might be the couple’s most remarkable fixer-upper yet. The former Shriners temple had sat largely empty since the 1990s. With AJ Capital, owner of the soon to be Hilton -operated Graduate Hotels , Joanna and Chip restored the elaborate plasterwork inside and out, buffed and polished the original terrazzo floors, and created 33 sumptuously furnished rooms and suites. The hotel is now a sparkling showcase for Joanna’s evolving but always elegant aesthetic, with moody, black walls and red, vintage area rugs in the public spaces; plush, pink sofas and floral-upholstered banquettes in Bertie’s, the rooftop bar; and stunning deep-green tile paired with white marble in the expansive bathrooms. What truly sets the Hotel 1928 apart is its devotion to local history as well as Texas’s rich culture. Up and down the halls, you’ll find framed vintage images by local photographer James Jasek, who has been shooting Waco since the 1950s. One of famed author Larry McMurtry’s typewriters sits in the corner of the library. A signature scent blending the state’s legendary cedar with sandalwood and jasmine infuses the building (candles are available in the gift shop). And at your preferred wakeup time, a gentle knock on your door will announce the arrival of your coffee — a custom blend by Texas’s own Merit Coffee Co . From $375/night. Accessible hotel. — Jeff Chu

Hotel Bardo Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is known for its antebellum architecture, its Southern hospitality — and its fabled ghosts. And now there’s a luxury resort that channels all three. Opened in February, Hotel Bardo Savannah occupies a Southern Gothic terra-cotta mansion on Forsyth Park, 30 acres of green space surrounded by historic homes and Spanish-moss-draped oak trees. During a pre-dinner stroll, I wandered the streets of restored Victorian homes without seeing a single bachelorette party or a horse-drawn carriage (common sights in the city’s more touristy areas to the north). On my return, the hotel beckoned like an urban oasis, with friendly valets in olive green uniforms welcoming me back by name. Entering the lobby, I found a warm, festive space furnished with circular club chairs, marble-topped tables, and potted palms. The welcoming décor continues in the 149 guest rooms and suites — think pole-wrap headboards, green velvet chairs, and brass lamps. My “Bardo” suite was particularly huge, with a full kitchen, six-person dining table, and plush daybed under a 12-foot-high turret. Saint Bibiana, the hotel’s hot-ticket Italian restaurant, is housed in a separate three-story mansion. There I had a delightful dinner that included fresh oysters, silky burrata and perfectly cooked pasta before heading to Club Bardo, a members-only lounge on the second floor, for cocktails. Hotels often try to make their guests feel like locals, and Bardo has succeeded in this goal by inviting its neighbors to join in the fun. By 10 p.m. the club was buzzing with well-dressed couples, flirty singles, and young professionals sipping wine and Negronis. From $450/night. Accessible hotel. — Denny Lee

Hotel Casa Lucia, Buenos Aires

Courtesy of Hotel Casa Lucia

If Casa Lucia 's walls could talk, they’d tell you it was the tallest building in Latin America when erected in 1929. Set in the upper-crust neighborhood of Recoleta on a sycamore tree– and neoclassical building–lined street, the 20-story art deco skyscraper debuted after a year-long renovation under the flag of Spanish lifestyle brand Único Hotels . Breaking from tradition, the new iteration swings open the hotel’s wrought-iron gates to directly connect the slick lobby bar and signature Cantina restaurant to Calle Arroyo’s vibrant tableau of sidewalk cafes, art galleries, and cocktail haunts. The atrium entrance, gleaming in polished checkerboard marble, is home to a new showpiece brass-and-wood bar that serves cocktails and more than 400 wines by the bottle. Evening hangout Le Club Bacan is a handsome candlelit cocktail and tapas bar with a private members’ club, while Cantina pays homage to Argentina’s polo heritage and culinary roots with helmets and mallets mounted on walls and a menu appealing to the local palate (read: delicious beef and wine). Of the 142 rooms and suites, choose one on an upper floor with a balcony to take in panoramic cityscapes and a bird’s-eye views of Rio de la Plata, as well as contemporary Argentinian artwork, hand-woven lampshades, and photographs of the beautiful doors of Buenos Aires, which hang over every bed. Soon, a serene spa will open with a 52-foot pool, sauna, steam room, and massage and reflexology offerings. From $600/night. Accessible hotel. — Nora Walsh

Hotel Honeyrose Montréal, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel 

Courtesy of Hotel Honeyrose Montreal

At Honeyrose , a new downtown Montreal hotel, bold design gestures mean Insta-ready surprises everywhere: a swirling lobby staircase, pressed-flower bar tables, and black-and-white murals in the common areas. While Honeyrose is part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio brand, its owners amped up the local flavor by tapping stellar Montreal talent. Architects from Provencher Roy designed the sleek guest rooms — among the city’s biggest — with bathroom amenities from local organic brand Idoine and art from Montreal painter Roxy Peroxyde, who adds floral face tattoos to traditional portraits. Homegrown design guru Zébulon Perron dreamed up the naval-inspired, ground-floor Commodore restaurant, where a wooden crown hovers over a glossy circular bar. French bistro fare here includes an epic Niçoise salad, Gruyère-slathered onion soup, and an ethereal crème brûlée. I was thrilled to see coffee sourced from my local roastery, Atwater Market’s beloved Brûlerie aux Quatre Vents. Montreal-based set designer Juliette Sarrazin outfitted the buzzy, fifth-floor Muze lounge with pink flamingos, birdcages, and 1970s swing seats on the massive terrace. The 15th floor houses a T-shaped pool and Precor machinery–equipped gym with city views through floor-to-ceiling windows. You won’t find a better location if you’re here for one of the city’s big cultural events, like the Montreal International Jazz Festival . Honeyrose borders the Quartier des Spectacles ― literally, the “neighborhood of shows” ― with its concert halls, outdoor performance venues, and museums. Access to the city’s speedy, efficient Metro is across the street, and Old Montreal is a 15-minute stroll south. From $269/night . Accessible hotel. — Michael Kaminer

Hotel La Palma, Capri, Italy

Courtesy of Hotel La Palma

Expectations were high when the prestigious Oetker Collection — the brand behind legendary properties like the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc on the French Riviera and The Lanesborough in London — took over Capri’s most historic hotel just steps from the famed Piazzetta. Originally opened in 1822 as the Locanda Pagano, the new design draws on this rich heritage, with ceiling frescoes in the lobby and neoclassical furniture. The color palette consists of varying shades of aquamarine, from the striped lounge chairs by the pool to the upholstery in the 50 rooms and suites, as if the hues of the Mediterranean on a bright summer day were used to decorate the space. Acclaimed chef Gennaro Esposito opened a namesake restaurant at La Palma serving simple coastal cuisine like zucchini tartare and sole meunière. The ground-floor bar and the rooftop restaurant, Bianca, are a bit more casual — by Capri standards, anyway — and provide the perfect spot for a pre-dinner spritz. But the hotel’s secret weapon is the beach club, Da Gioia, occupying a prime position in Marina Piccola. Anyone can book a table for a lazy lunch of caprese salad and lobster linguini on the deck overlooking the sea, but only hotel guests can use the lounge chairs on the pebble beach. After a day in the sun, visit the spa for a facial, using skincare products by Tata Harper and Augustinus Bader, before freshening up for dinner. From $1,028/night. Accessible hotel. — Laura Itzkowitz

Hotel San Fernando, Mexico City

Hugo Campoy/Courtesy of Hotel San Fernando

Did you know San Fernando is the patron saint of the Spanish Army Corps of Engineers? The designers from Bunkhouse, the creative Austin, Texas–based hospitality group, reveled in such off-beat details of Hispanic culture when they reimagined the Edificio San Fernando, an elegant art deco apartment building from 1947, as a boutique hotel in La Condesa, one of CDMX's leafiest and most charming neighborhoods. The Hotel San Fernando is a loving celebration of mexicanidad that recalls the genteel beauty of the city in the post-war era, when it was a sleepy mountain capital where a few cars trundled down broad, leafy avenues and artistic celebrities like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo were bringing the country's Indigenous culture into the mainstream. The hotel’s 19 rooms spread over five floors feel like spacious apartments, with original casement windows, contemporary furnishings from local design studio La Metropolitana, and (in many cases) their own kitchens and lounge rooms. Bunkhouse's designers say they were inspired by the Mexican idea of sobremesa , the dreamy after-meal time when diners relax into conversation and take a respite from their hectic lives. The sense of entering a serene refuge from the 21st century begins as you pass through the original curved doors to the lobby, which is adorned with striking green tiles, stained-glass windows, hanging textiles, and decorative lamps from the Oaxacan-based studio Oaxifornia. The polished-stone and wood stairway leading upstairs is overflowing with potted plants, giving a calming, tropical greenhouse effect (there is no elevator), while the attached Lounge Fernando extending onto the sidewalk serves tasty small bites (try the fried shrimp tacos), an array of creative margaritas, and Mexican natural wines. Drinks can also be taken to the sun-dappled rooftop, which doubles as a breakfast patio for guests in the mornings. And because San Fernando opens into the heart of La Condesa, an array of fine restaurants, bars, cafes, parks, clothing boutiques, and art galleries are only a stroll away. From $225/night. — Tony Perrottet

Hôtel Swexan, Dallas 

Marco Galloway/Courtesy of Hotel Swexan

There’s a reason Hôtel Swexan is putting Dallas on the radar for luxury city stays since its opening last summer. The paradoxical name takes Swiss and Texan to form a singular word and a thoroughly considered approach to hospitality and design. The 134-room, 20-floor hotel building was designed by famed architect Kengo Kuma — making it his third in Dallas’s growing bounty of world-famous architecture. From the moment of entry, I felt the warmth of Texas hospitality and the remarkable influence of sophisticated and traditional European design. The intimate foyer eases your senses into a relaxing and indulgent atmosphere and the guest rooms are lavishly comfortable with just the right amount of residential feel. The floor-to-ceiling windows reveal city views while the spacious marble bathrooms give a spa-like experience with Le Labo products and a dramatic bathtub that fills from the ceiling. Staying at Hôtel Swexan transports you away from Dallas while also very much anchoring you to the best the city has to offer. A standout feature of the property is its ability to act either as a full retreat you’ll never want to leave or as a home base for exploring the city’s museums, entertainment venues, sporting events, and walking trails. There are five unique food-and-beverage concepts within the building from rooftop to basement. The most notable is the seventh-floor steakhouse, Stillwell’s. Its midcentury ranch atmosphere and the zero-waste beef program of locally raised Akaushi cattle make this a contender for top tier steakhouses in a city known for them. In between meals and lounging poolside under the Texas sun, a visit to the gym is a must — the sprawling, cutting-edge fitness center would impress even a professional athlete with its choice of equipment, outdoor terrace, cold plunge, and saunas offering a plethora of ways to work out or relax. Beyond the expansive list of on-property features, what steals the show here is the level of service. Our stay was made memorable by the personalized touches for us and the over-the-top-attentive staff. With its intentional design details, top-quality service, and offerings in wellness and dining, Hôtel Swexan sets a new standard for city hotels. From $432/night. — Mariah Tyler

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa, South Korea 

Ben Richards/Courtesy of JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, South Korea’s Jeju Island puts on a show: Idyllic fishing villages are flanked by glistening black basalt, cascading waterfalls gurgle against dormant volcano backdrops, and rugged shorelines dotted with azaleas abound in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the southern city of Seogwipo, JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa sits on a quiet cliffside overlooking a rugged coastline, forested hillsides, and the crouching tiger–shaped Beomseom Island in the distance. Led by designer Bill Bensley, the property pays homage to Korean culture, with walls made of quilting fabric called jogakbo , and ceiling lights shaped like traditional Korean scholars’ hats, called gat . The property features 197 guest rooms, including 28 suites, with hanok-inspired wooden walls and balconies that reveal panoramic views of the cobalt East China Sea. Five on-site restaurants highlight local Jeju delicacies like the Udo peanut, apple mangos, and a crispy black pork belly – which executive chef Joon Ko salts for three days and slow cooks for three hours. Other amenities include four pools, a spa, a gym, and a sundrenched lounge where I enjoyed afternoon tea and desserts like citrus sponge cake topped with green mandarin cream. Ask the hotel how you can swim with Jeju’s famous haenyeo female divers, whose sustainable practices and daily catches like abalone and urchin have been feeding their communities and hotels for decades. From $827/night . Accessible hotel. — Kristin Braswell

Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, Island of Hawaii

Courtesy of Rosewood

Kona Village , once a celebrity haven on Hawaii’s Big Island, shuttered in 2011 after an earthquake off the northeastern coast of Honshu, Japan, generated a devastating tsunami, and reopened this past summer as part of the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio. When my husband and I arrived eight days into Kona’s new chapter, we met return guests — the old resort amassed a hefty cult following, counting Steve Jobs among its biggest fans — eager to revisit their old rooms. Sure enough, you can still book the six legacy hales that survived the tsunami, though along with the 144 new stand-alone villas, these have been upgraded by designer Nicole Hollis with improvements that include palapa-shaded decks, outdoor showers, and Hawaiian accents such as fans, hats, paddles, and kapa -printed pillows. We spent one afternoon on a sailing canoe, gliding three miles out into the Pacific, and followed that with a soak in the 82-foot Shipwreck Pool. At around 3 p.m. a cart brimming with bright-green coconuts came around, which we drank from in a sumptuous black-stone hot tub. We feasted at the four restaurants and bars — each of which has its own mai tai recipe, by the way — starting our day with Hawaiian malasada donuts at Moana and ending it with wood-fired local ahi tuna at Kahuwai Cookhouse, our toes in the sand as we watched the sunset. From $1,800/night. Accessible hotel. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

KuKaya Lodge by The Bushcamp Company, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Courtesy of The Bushcamp Company

At KuKaya , the latest lodge from safari outfitter The Bushcamp Company , just a few miles from the main entrance to Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, guests choose their own adventure. I had my pick of private game drives day or night, or thrilling walking safaris. Each of the lodge’s six thatched-roof tents comes with luxurious interiors, plush bedding, separate living areas, full kitchens, and glass walls that open completely for indoor-outdoor living and wildlife viewing opportunities. There’s ample outdoor space, too, and every tent has a fire pit and private plunge pool, so you can enjoy the scenery in total solitude. I found my solitude was only interrupted by vervet monkeys giving me a mile-long stare from the trees above, a tower of giraffes walking to the water’s edge, a pride of lions stalking their prey, and endangered African wild dogs playing along the riverbed just a few feet away. Each night, guests are invited to dine at KuKaya’s outdoor restaurant, where they’re served an astonishing meal of fruits and vegetables grown at Bushcamp’s private garden, fish caught in the river just down the street, and even local mango dried on-site, ensuring the lowest carbon footprint possible. Just be sure to close the door to your outdoor shower before you leave; the monkeys really are just waiting to ransack your room. From $590 per person per night. — Stacey Leasca

La Fantaisie, Paris 

Jérôme Galland/Courtesy of La Fantaisie

Faubourg-Montmartre, a stretch of the ninth arrondissement that’s often passed over by non-Parisians, is now attracting a crowd of creatives at La Fantaisie . Camouflaging with the boulangeries and bistros of villagey Rue Cadet, the only sign of the hotel entrance is the rattan tables lining the sidewalk cafe out front. The rest of the hotel, by Swedish design darling Martin Brudnizki, isn’t nearly as discreet. The 73 rooms and suites are themed around the oasis-like courtyard garden, originally designed by celebrated 16th-century master gardeners Jacques and Jean Cadet (the market street is named after the brothers). Pistachio, coral, and pale lemon are the dominant shades splashed everywhere, from the ceilings and Sicily-inspired ceramics to the velvet bar stools of Dominique Crenn’s restaurant, Golden Poppy. An homage to California’s state flower — and a link to the chef’s Michelin three-starred Atelier Crenn in San Francisco — the winter garden eatery unfolds around a centerpiece olive tree with mirrors dangling like Christmas ornaments and faux fleur poppies sprouting behind floral fabric–swathed banquettes. With culinary royalty like Crenn at the helm, pescetarian dishes take risks that pay off — scone-like banana pancakes with a dollop of smoked osciètre caviar, corn waffles checkered with smoked trout roe, and carrot and mussel sabayon were standouts. Even if you’re visiting in winter like I was, the rooftop Bar Sur Le Toit’s Mediterranean garden is still in bloom (herbs are plucked for Crenn’s signature cocktails). If you’re feeling jet lagged, the holistic philosophy from the subterranean Holidermie wellness sanctuary extends to minibar offerings like a botanical-based sleep elixir and melatonin-infused gummies placed on the nightstand at turndown. From $378/night. Accessible hotel. — Lane Nieset

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, Greece

Margarita Nikitaki/Travel + Leisure

They say breakfast is the best part of the day (and many a hotel stay). At the Mandarin Oriental Costa Navarino, they are right: smiling waiters in relaxed linens bring you a ginger kombucha shot and warm pastries while you ponder whether to order the Peloponnesian porridge made with trahanas (fermented wheat with goat’s milk) or the Greek-style eggs Florentine with spanakopita stuffing and feta dill hollandaise. Before you’ve made up your mind, you’re presented with the paramana , a tray of dainty sweet and savory dishes that changes daily. Almost everything is sourced within a 50-mile radius of the resort, from the sheep’s milk yogurt and honeycomb to the organic tomatoes drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. With some fifteen million olive trees, the region of Messenia (a 3.5-hour drive from Athens) is the agricultural heartland of the Peloponnese and home to a rare trove of ancient ruins. Greece’s first Mandarin Oriental pays homage to the abundance of local products and artisans, as well as the country’s myths and legends: There are olive oil tastings, textiles inspired by folk costumes, electric bikes for exploring the Gialova lagoon — a rich habitat for migrating birds — and boat trips to pay homage to the heroes of the battle of Navarino, which took place on the placid bay that is visible from every sun-drenched suite and villa of the 99-key resort. The curvy, glass-fronted buildings are embedded in the hillside and enveloped by greenery, creating a sense of space and openness. It requires serious willpower to venture out when there’s Ormos Beach Club, a sexy swim-up pool bar for slushie cocktails; Pizza Sapienza, an okamase pizza bar that will change your relationship with carbs forever; an indoor-outdoor lap pool that seems to float between sea and sky, and a serene spa that blends Eastern and Mediterranean botanical remedies. From $1,095/night. Accessible hotel. — Rachel Howard

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya, Mexico

William Jess Laird/Courtesy of Belmond

Mexican architect Jose Luis Moreno was scouting for a home by plane when he first saw the 200-acre piece of land that would eventually become Maroma , the Riviera Maya’s first luxury resort, which opened in 1995. By 2021, the white stucco property, by then part of the Belmond group, was ready for a glow-up. After a two-year closure and $45 million design overhaul by London-based Tara Bernerd & Partners, Maroma now fully channels the joy of Mexico. Some 700,000 clay tiles were sourced from Jalisco for the 72 rooms and suites, but strategic pops of yellow — on an umbrella by the saltwater pool or woven into loaner guest caftans by female artisans in Chiapas — are what caught my eye. Chef Curtis Stone crafts a menu of fire-roasted meats and seafood at Woodend, while at Casa Mayor, executive chef Daniel Camacho sources 90 percent of his ingredients from within Mexico, including surprises such as a regional coffee of the day. (I loved the beans from Veracruz.) The electric-white beach is still the main draw, but when you need a break from the sunshine, a small-batch tequila and raicilla tasting in the private cantina awaits. From $1,095/night.​ Accessible hotel. — Jacqueline Gifford

Mollie Aspen, Colorado 

Courtesy of Mollie Aspen

By the time I made it to Mollie Aspen in January, only a month into the hotel’s life, Rihanna and A$AP Rocky had reportedly already been through. That’s Aspen for you. Rihanna’s pick, unsurprisingly, hits; the hybrid lobby-restaurant-cafe is cozy without the in-your-face, capital-m Mountain Vibes. (Read: no taxidermy.) At the restaurant, furnished with soft brown banquettes and deep chestnut leather couches, I had a winter salad with roasted squash and a perfectly smashed burger on a toasty sesame bun. Mollie’s food and drinks are by Death & Co. , and as a longtime fan of the cocktail empire that brought us now-classic cocktails like the mezcal-aperol Naked & Famous, I mostly came to the new hotel to eat and drink. I ended my Saturday night at the hotel with fried, powdered sugar–dusted zeppole and a Pineapple Express, a non-alcoholic cold brew and Seedlip concoction that could give even the best espresso martini a run for its money. It was a perfect drink to nurse while warming my hands by the slate and marble–lavished fireplace, but I’m eager to return in the summer when the third-floor rooftop terrace bar will open with exceptional views of Aspen Mountain and an al fresco plunge pool. The design of the 68 rooms match the muted common space aesthetics — all by Brooklyn, New York–based Post Company , whose work shows up twice more on It List this year: natural wood and butter-soft black leather, Maison Balsac tinted glass water pitchers, Parachute sheets, grid-patterned rugs, and of course, mountain views. From $500/night. Accessible hotel. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Nay Palad Hideaway, Siargao Island, Philippines

Courtesy of Nay Palad

This resort on the soft sands of Siargao Island, a 90-minute flight from Manila, has been reborn. It used to be Dedon Island, an upscale tropical hotel from the owners of outdoor furniture company Dedon, until 2021’s Typhoon Odette all but leveled the property. In June 2023 it rose again, as Nay Palad Hideaway . You can expect warm, thoughtful service, and the resort staff can arrange activities, like island-hopping yacht excursions and picnic lunches under coconut trees, that are just right for jealousy-inducing selfies. But you should take time to enjoy the comfort and charm of your villa, too. Whether you’re staying in a tucked-away garden unit surrounded by sweet-smelling spider lilies or hiding out with your crew in the three-bedroom Perlah Villa, these spacious dwellings are sanctuaries in themselves. Most of the furniture was made by artisans from Siargao and evokes the easy-breezy vibe of island life: oversize wooden headboards carved with jungle motifs, woven loveseats that swing from the ceiling, and baskets in the shape of crabs. In addition to these quirky details, however, what elevates the 10 pointy-roofed villas is their size — each has indoor and outdoor showers, a private patio large enough for yoga sessions, and a secret loft space that can act as a separate lounge or extra bedroom. From $1,780/night.​ — Chadner Navarro

Nolinski Venezia

Guillaume de Laubier/Courtesy of Nolinski Venezia

Venice may be slowly sinking, but the enchanting canal-filled city proved irresistible to Evok Collection , the group behind a handful of boutique hotel brands in France. Its first property in Italy recently opened in the 1929 Stock Exchange building near Piazza San Marco and brought some French je ne sais quoi (and superlative croissant-making skills) to La Serenissima. Entering the red-carpeted foyer, head to the ground-floor restaurant, Il Caffè, which serves an excellent fritto misto in an intimate dining room with exposed brick walls or the adjacent courtyard. Upstairs, the design becomes even more show-stopping. Off the colonnaded second-floor lobby is the cozy Library Bar, replete with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves stacked with more than 4,000 books, a piano, velvet banquettes, and a Marc Chagall–inspired ceiling mural by French artist Simon Buret. Housed in the former council chamber’s auditorium, the Palais Royal Restaurant sports a glamorous midcentury air and serves an à-la-carte breakfast menu worth waking up for, especially those buttery French croissants and pain au chocolat. Though the hotel owners are French, there are nods to Venice, including around 600 Murano glass objects, some in the shape of an octopus, a recurring motif. The 43 rooms and suites are beautifully decorated with stucco headboards, mango wood paneling, and bathrooms featuring mosaic tiles and Japanese Toto toilets. Suites come with a separate sitting area, a bar stocked with complimentary full-size bottles of premium liquors, and elegant cocktail glasses in which to drink them. Fancy a midnight soak? A small indoor pool on the top floor festooned with gold mosaic tiles is open 24/7. From $851/night. Accessible hotel. — Laura Itzkowitz

Norumbega Inn, Camden, Maine

Courtesy of Norumbega Inn

Just north of Camden, Maine, on Route 1, the towering, turreted “ Castle by the Sea ” has been winning the hearts of road-trippers and romantics for the better part of 130 years. After an overhaul by owners Will Tims and Brett Haynie, who purchased the property in 2022, the interiors of this Gilded Age treasure now live up to the grand facade. New York City–based design firm Studiocake was tapped to collaborate on the refreshed look, which is inspired by the home’s original owner: an inventor and globetrotter named Joseph Baker Stearns. The finishes and furnishings layer old and new, and give guests the impression that they’ve been spirited away to a storied country estate. You might encounter a pressed-flower collage by artist Tricia Paoluccio across from an antique chest of drawers, or one of Greta Grossman’s midcentury modern Grasshopper lamps perched next to a Baroque-inspired carved wooden chair with tapestry cushions. Norumbega’s 11 rooms each have their own selling point, such as the curving leaded-glass panes of the turret room, the second-floor gallery in the library room, or the sweeping views of Penobscot Bay from the top-floor balcony. If you can bear to leave your room, there’s a lounge with a grand piano and a well-stocked library waiting downstairs, along with a basement game room, a bar overlooking the grassy back lawn, and a covered porch where you can hang out in warm weather with a cocktail and a pulpo snack plate whipped up by the property’s Peruvian chef. From $229/night. — Lila Harron Battis

North Island Okavango, Botswana

Martin Harvey/Courtesy of Natural Selection

North Island Okavango ’s greatest luxury is its exclusivity. Set amid tall ebony trees on the edge of a lagoon frequented by elephants and hippos, the idyllic camp has just three tents — and it’s really a stretch to call them “tents,” though their roofs are indeed made of canvas. Each luxurious suite has 850 square feet of indoor space — living room, bar area, one-and-a-half bathrooms — and 650 square feet outside. They all have indoor and outdoor showers as well as a soaking tub with lagoon views. While the furnishings are carefully chosen, the decor — contemporary African baskets, fine woodwork, flat-weave rugs — never steals attention from the stunning surroundings. That all-too-rare feeling of immersion in nature continues when you’re out on safari. North Island, part of the Natural Selection portfolio of camps and lodges, sits in a section of the Okavango with few other safari camps, so you’ll rarely see other tourists. Wildlife is plentiful — on my trip, I spotted not just lions and leopards, but also sitatungas, an unusual amphibious antelope. And because of North Island’s prime location in the Okavango Delta’s neck, there are year-round opportunities to travel both on land and by water, either by the local dugout canoes called mokoro or by motorboat, which are ideal for viewing hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. The solar-powered camp’s design honors its environment in other ways, too: North Island Okavango’s tents and the network of decks on which they sit can be totally deconstructed, with no permanent trace on the fragile ecosystem. And because the surrounding concession belongs to a community trust, a portion of the revenues directly supports five nearby villages. From $1,395 per person per night. — Jeff Chu

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

One&Only Aesthesis, Greece 

On the Athens Riviera, 10 miles from the city center, Greece’s first One&Only seems to float along the tranquil Saronic Gulf. Spacious “residences,” designed for families and groups of friends, unfold onto private stretches of beach, and waterfront bungalows have wooden docks and ladders that descend to the water. The stay is more akin to a Mykonos vacation than a city break, yet I could get to the Acropolis in less than an hour. Though the tavernas and wine bars of Athens beckoned, I was reluctant to miss any meals at the resort, where chef Paco Morales — known for the Michelin three-starred Noor, in Córdoba, Spain — has a pop-up that serves chicken croquettes topped with ras al hanout mayo and delicate, flash-fried calamari stuffed into a brioche. The food wasn’t the only luxury: the country’s first Guerlain Spa, where I indulged in an ultra-hydrating facial, made it even harder to leave the resort. From $1,620/night.​ — Maya Kachroo-Levine

One&Only One Za’abeel, Dubai 

Courtesy of One&Only Resorts

In Dubai, change is intentional — and the opening of One&Only One Za’abeel , the One&Only Resorts brand’s first hotel in the heart of a major city, is no exception. In the affluent Za’abeel district, the hotel is connected to an adjoining tower by the world’s longest cantilever , the 750-foot-long Link, a concept by Japanese architecture firm Nikken Sekkei that hovers more than 300 feet above the ground. Inside, the resort vibe is brought to life by noted Aman designer Jean-Michel Gathy, with a soothing color palette and rich textures that pay homage to the country’s desert landscapes. The 229 rooms and suites continue the elegance with sand, taupe, and gold tones, marble floors, and carpets so soft you’d sleep on them if there wasn’t already a plush, king-size bed calling your name. Floor-to-ceiling windows draw your eyes to the horizon over Old Dubai or the futuristic skyline of Downtown Dubai, depending on your room. Relaxation is built into the resort’s ethos, with a three-floor spa, the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie. I enjoyed a 90-minute Longevity Path to Detox treatment, a three-step process that involves phytotherapy and hydrotherapy. But where the intentionality behind One&Only One Za’abeel shines is in its cuisine. In step with Dubai’s plans to become a major culinary destination , the resort offers 11 exceptional restaurants and six chefs known for their Michelin-starred restaurants (chef Anne-Sophie Pic of London’s La Dame De Pic , for example). From the inventive street food at StreetXO by chef Dabiz Muñoz (try the paella pollo and caviar) to the interactive Andaliman, where dishes like the Jimbaran-style grilled red snapper are prepared tableside, each restaurant feels like a destination in its own right. Even indecisive eaters will find a home at the upscale food hall, Arrazuna, where sampling everything is expected. To wind down, grab a sunbed at Tapasake Pool Club, take a dip in the 393-foot-long infinity pool, the longest in the UAE, and watch the sunset. From $835/night. Accessible hotel. — Danielle Pointdujour

Otro Oaxaca, Mexico

Courtesy of Otro Oaxaca/Design Hotels

Directly across the street from Oaxaca’s Baroque cathedral Santo Domingo, Otro Oaxaca boasts perhaps the best views and most coveted location of any hotel in the cobblestoned city. The newest opening from Mexican boutique hotel firm Grupo Habita , Otro is its fourth installment in the state of Oaxaca. Otro is just a short walk from some of the city’s most tempting restaurants, museums, and attractions, yet it offers guests a tranquil respite from the clamor. The neo-vanguardist hotel, with its natural palette of reclaimed wood, adobe, brick, and iron, is a dream for design aficionados, and each of its 16 utilitarian rooms includes surprising pops of color, like green–coated aluminum bed frames with built-in bedside tables and burgundy suede blackout curtains. On the rooftop, guests can take in the panoramic views of Oaxaca’s central valleys while lounging on French terry cloth daybeds lining the lap pool. For those who prefer more private swimming quarters, book an hour-long slot at Otro’s subterranean plunge pool, meant to mimic a cenote. I happily spent 60 minutes luxuriating in the underground space before heading to dinner at Otro’s restaurant. I started my meal by choosing from a wide selection of mezcals, the menu offering everything from espadín to rare agave spirits like tepeztate and tobasiche . Otro’s dinner menu highlights the bounty of Oaxacan seafood, with fish delivered daily from the coast. The stone crab pâté toast with fermented black garlic — at once sweet, savory, and with generous hunks of meaty crab — is a must-order. From $300/night. — Catherine Tansey

Palihouse Hyde Park Village, Tampa, Florida

Courtesy of Palisociety

Accessed from a street-level scene of upscale boutiques and restaurants in one of Tampa’s most sought-after residential neighborhoods, Palihouse Hyde Park Village made me feel like I was arriving at a friend’s house. Inside I found a two-story lobby with checkerboard terrazzo floors and a coffered white oak paneling; elsewhere in the property I spotted other surprising touches, like a three-tier, hand-blown glass chandelier, a framed collection of vintage Hermès scarves, and handmade Mexican ceramic tiles. The hotel’s living-room-style lounge, the Lobby Bar, is perfect for cocktails and conversation, and serves breakfast plus an all-day bar menu featuring classic burgers, lobster tacos, and tuna tartare. Tucked away down art-filled corridors are 36 rooms outfitted with Smeg mini fridges, custom wallpaper and drapery, and a cocktail bar stocked with artisan spirits, tools, and tumblers for in-room cocktail hour. Outside in the leafy Hyde Park Village neighborhood, you can browse boutiques, bike along the nearby bayfront, or just picnic on pizza under the shade of a live oak. From $305/night. Accessible hotel. — Terry Ward

Pelorus Private Island, Australia

Jason Ierace/Courtesy of Pelorus Private Island

The Indigenous Manbarra people, custodians of Australia’s Palm Islands for millennia, believe this small, northeastern archipelago was formed when the Rainbow Serpent emerged from the Queensland tablelands and lay down in the ocean. The islands, strewn across the Coral Sea, are the vertebrae of its spine. On the northernmost island, known as Pelorus, North Palm, or Yanooa, an $8 million property with five lavish residences has opened, promising the most exclusive – and inclusive – accommodation on the Great Barrier Reef. Access to this isolated idyll is by helicopter (30 minutes) or motor yacht (five hours) from the Queensland city of Townsville. At the southwestern tip of a 1,000-acre tropical island, guests are greeted with chilled towels and Champagne before hosts Grant Logan and Kate Hawkins settle them into their reclusive hideaway. The modernist pavilion-style building features an infinity pool and generous interior spaces of neutral tones and native timbers to ensure the eye is always drawn to the saturated blues and greens of your playground: the Coral Sea. Days are as active or sedentary as you desire, with every imaginable water toy – Jet Skis, Seabobs, water bicycles, and a motorboat – at your disposal for island or outer reef explorations. Craving company, a spa treatment, or a quick lesson in marine science? Sibling resort Orpheus Island Lodge, a short speedboat ride across the strait, has a restaurant, day spa, and marine research center. From $13,067 per night for two people. Accessible hotel. — Kendall Hill

Pendry Newport Beach, California

Courtesy of Pendry Newport Beach

Nestled in the heart of Newport Beach’s Fashion Island, the latest addition to the Pendry portfolio promises to establish itself as an Orange County icon — following in the footsteps of its long-loved sibling property, Montage Laguna Beach , 11 miles down the road. In true younger sibling form, Pendry Newport Beach is Montage’s cool, trendy foil that comes alive at night. After the sun sets on the cabana-lined pool and fireside Jacuzzi out back, a vibrant atmosphere unfolds at Bar Pendry, where locals mingle with hotel guests over craft cocktails. After joining in the revelry with a smoky bourbon for him and a tropical, toasted coconut–topped concoction for me, my fiancé and I ducked into the hotel’s private wing for a more subdued nightlife scene at the members-only Elwood Club . The club hosts a coastal Italian restaurant, Viamara , and a cozy sports pub where we swung our way through a few rounds in the Topgolf Swing Suite. But the late-night highlight is its cabaret, where we sat in a velvet booth listening to live jazz over two glasses of red. At Set Steak & Sushi , dinner is an event in its own right as bluefin tuna pizza, Peking duck, and prime steaks are served beneath glowing lanterns on a romantic terrace, or inside a stylish nautical-themed dining room. The 40-ounce tomahawk still regularly makes its way into our dinner conversations. Spread throughout a 20-story tower, the hotel’s 295 guest rooms, 114 of which are suites, are sleek and contemporary, offering a spacious home base from which to explore the area. You won’t wake up on a beachfront, but you will find yourself close to must-visit spots such as Balboa Island, Crystal Cove, and Corona del Mar. Take advantage of Pendry’s Ride & Drive program and grab keys to a Cadillac at no charge, or strap on a helmet and take out a Scott e-bike. If you’re traveling with little ones, don’t worry, Paintbox, the on-site kids’ club, will entertain them while you’re out. Or, you may decide to use your kid-free time to pamper yourself at the spa; it’s the only Spa Pendry with a MediSpa machine and cryotherapy. From $396/night. Accessible hotel. — Nina Ruggiero

Raffles Boston

Courtesy of Raffles Boston

The 137-year-old Raffles hotel brand is finally making a splash in North America — and in Boston, of all places. Opened in September and set in a 35-story tower in the well-heeled Back Bay neighborhood, it is as smashing as you’d expect. On arrival, I was whisked to the 17th-floor Sky Lobby, which has wraparound views of the skyline. My room was sumptuous, with sophisticated gold and black touches that gesture to the brand’s Asian roots. Butler service was discreet and attentive — after check-in, I found a chilled cranberry cocktail called the “Boston Sling” (a nod to the Singapore Sling, which was created at the flagship property in 1915) waiting in the room’s glass-fronted wooden bar. From $700/night.​ Accessible hotel. — Elizabeth Cantrell

Raffles London at The OWO 

Flora Stubbs/Travel + Leisure

In a city where splashy new hotels seem to pop up on a weekly basis, how do you make sure your property makes the biggest splash of them all? In the case of Raffles London at The OWO , it went something like this: Purchase the landmarked Old War Offices from Britain’s Ministry of Defense (rumored listing price: $450 million). Lavish more than $1.25 billion on restoring its hallowed corridors, along which Sir Winston Churchill famously strode, making decisions that altered the face of history as he went. (The wood-paneled office in which he decided to enter World War II is now part of the Churchill Suite, bookable for $29,000 a night.) To keep things contemporary, install a gleaming, 27,000-square-foot Guerlain spa over four subterranean floors and invite Argentine chef Mauro Colagreco, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on the French Riviera, to oversee three of the hotel’s nine restaurants, including an eponymous dining room focused on the finest ingredients from the British Isles. The effect of all this? Every bit as dazzling as you might expect. Stepping through The OWO’s Portland Stone portico on Whitehall Street, I was wowed by the Grand Staircase, above which a 26-foot Murano glass chandelier hangs like a benevolent planet. Up on the third floor, my boots sunk into the deep, cream and ruby-red carpets now lining the building’s 2.5 miles of corridor, along which boy scouts once delivered messages by bicycle. I stayed in a suite named after Vera Atkins, a British-Romanian spy — one of eight female politicians, spies, and public figures around whom the hotel’s expansive corner suites are themed. Thierry Despont, the late Parisian interiors star, sprinkled his fairy dust over all of The OWO’s 120 accommodations; the Atkins suite had an updated art deco look, with curvaceous velvet banquettes and heavy-cream accents to brighten up all the wood paneling and parquet. Speaking of spies, “James Bond” author Ian Flemming regularly visited the OWO’s library (now the restaurant Mauro Colagreco), and the building itself has appeared in no fewer than five Bond movies, as the MI6 offices. There may be stiff competition among high-end London hotels, but there can be few that deliver a more quintessentially British experience than this one. From $1,385/night. Accessible hotel. — Flora Stubbs  

Regent Hong Kong

Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

Regent Hong Kong has been a fixture in the city’s Kowloon area since 1980, but it just reopened after a massive two-year renovation. Walking onto the newly renovated property felt like entering a secret oasis in a city of 7.4 million people. The hotel presents like a sanctuary, starting with the Feng Shui fountain outside and the terrace with lush landscaping and three infinity pools. My room had a window-front daybed and a deep soaking tub from which I could enjoy the views across the city’s iconic Victoria Harbor and Hong Kong Island. And should you, like me, not want to leave unless absolutely necessary, know there are excellent on-site dining options. The hotel is home to seven restaurants and bars, including Michelin two-starred Lai Ching Heen ; an outpost of Nobu; and Harbourside, where guests can indulge in an elevated daily buffet for breakfast and lunch. I found myself crippled with decision fatigue on what to eat for breakfast — the local specialties, the continental breakfast, the fresh-baked pastries, or all of the above? The answer was obviously D, all of the above. From $767/night. Accessible hotel. — Susmita Baral

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among Travel + Leisure readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Roost Detroit

Matthew Williams/Courtesy of ROOST Detroit

Tucked inside Detroit’s iconic Book Tower, this Roost location merges the comforts of a contemporary home with the elegance of a bygone era. The building’s past and future blend seamlessly, thanks to a transformative renovation by the real estate firm Bedrock Detroit. The painstaking restoration, conducted over a seven-year period, invokes the structure’s Italian Renaissance–revival style, originally conceived by architect Louis Kamper in the 1920s, which includes awe-inspiring arches and a romantic rotunda that now floats above an all-day café and wine bar. The property has been updated with a contemporary art collection curated by the Library Street Collective gallery and features pieces by local creatives Senghor Reid and Sydney James. Travelers staying in one of the property’s 117 apartment suites will love the spacious floor plans, some of which feature Detroit river views.

But the details are what define the guest experience: stellar service, Le Labo Santal 33 amenities, elevated electronics from Sonos and Samsung, and colorful Fortessa glassware are just a few ways this property defies the expectations of a standard extended stay. Roost is also an ideal hideaway for remote work: a 3,000-square-foot study also serves as a co-working space and lounge that features private booths and retreat-ready conference rooms. There are several restaurants, including a chic rooftop bar named Kampers, but Le Supreme is the one that stands out. This Parisian-inspired brasserie has vintage-inspired decor. I parked myself in a booth and ordered a rhubarb and rosé-filled Mon Cheri cocktail, which paired well with the peppercorn-crusted filet mignon and a shrimp, avocado, and mâche salad. From $289/night. Accessible hotel. — Keyaira Boone

Rosemary, Marrakesh

Marina Denisova/Courtesy of Rosemary

Hidden behind a hand-carved cedar door, Rosemary is the latest example of the creative energy sizzling through this ancient city. The five-bedroom guesthouse was designed by Belgian artist Laurence Leenaert, who founded the ceramics and textile brand Lrnce, known for its cool, artsy aesthetic. Working with more than 30 local artisans, she used materials sourced in Morocco — including stained glass from Meknes, pots from Safi, and marble from Rabat. Every inch of the riad is an expression of her imagination, from the abstract drawings hand-carved into sandstone tables to the colorful murals made from zellige tiles. Squint and you’ll notice that each of the tiles in the bathroom is a miniature painting; find out more in the ceramic and plaster workshops that turn Rosemary into a creative hub. From $236/night.​ — Chloe Sachdev

Rosewood Munich 

Davide Lovatti/Courtesy of Rosewood

Entering the Rosewood Munich , a hotel 10 years in the making, feels like walking into your friend’s living room (granted, your most stylish friend’s living room), with a grand lobby where you can sink into plush seating while sampling the local sweets the hotel puts out to satisfy your sugar cravings. Cuvilliés, the brasserie open to both guests and locals, is one of the poshest new restaurants in Munich, with ingredients sourced from the region, including Helmut Schlader Alpine caviar, wagyu beef from Tegernsee, and lamb from a breeder in Jochberg. Guests can retire to their apartment-style rooms, decked out in bespoke furnishings and all-marble baths. The most luxurious accommodations, though, are Rosewood’s five houses, with unparalleled amenities like full kitchens, massive soaking tubs, private courtyard terraces, and more than 2,600 square feet of living space. My favorite spot at the hotel is much smaller: the ultra-exclusive speakeasy, 100B, hidden on the property. During my visit to the hotel, I caught a rare glimpse inside the space to find soft, red velvet furnishings accent rich, dark-wood walls, made all the better by its top-shelf drink offerings, including hard-to-find bottles of Pappy Van Winkle and other rarified liquors. The only way in is to butter up a bartender, who may or may not acknowledge its very existence. From $865/night. Accessible hotel. — Stacey Leasca

Sha Wellness Clinic Mexico

Courtesy of SHA Mexico

Wellness culture reaches its apex at Sha Wellness Clinic , open since January 2024 in Costa Mujeres, Mexico, just north of Cancun. The 100-room property, with 35 privately owned residences, offers an all-inclusive, immersive wellness experience in four- to 21-day programs. Guests engage in wellness therapies, ranging in scope from the medical – intravenous oxygenation, for instance – to the therapeutic, like Shiatsu massage. Upon arrival, each traveler receives a state-of-the-art evaluation, assessing everything from body composition to vascular age to muscular strength, to determine specific wellness needs. My own four-day Rebalance & Energize program included sessions with a Chinese medicine specialist for acupuncture and energy healing; a consultation with a head nutritionist for a meal plan; various overall health assessments with the clinic’s physicians; a Tibetan sound bowl session; and a water-based treatment called the hydroenergetic detox, in which I was wrapped in seaweed and massaged by machine. Shamadi, the nutrition-focused fine-dining venue, serves sophisticated, multicourse menus both inside and outside, on a terrace overlooking the sea. (A second restaurant, Earthy, focused on live-fire cooking, is set to open soon.) When they aren’t meeting with the clinic’s trained professionals, guests are also welcome to use the property’s hydrotherapy circuit, infinity pools, and fitness facility, or snorkel at the largest coral reef in the Northern Hemisphere. During my stay, a swim with a school of stunning barracuda, shimmering in Caribbean sunlight, proved particularly restorative. Four-night program from $5,600, all-inclusive. – Hannah Selinger

Shinta Mani Mustang, Nepal

Elise Hassey/Courtesy of Shinta Mani Mustang

There are still wildly beautiful and enchanted pockets of the world to discover, and this new property — imagined by celebrated interior designer Bill Bensley — is right in the heart of one: the ancient Kingdom of Mustang in Nepal, close to the border of Tibet. From the outside, this U-shaped structure, built using local Baglung stone, resembles a monastery. But inside, thanks to Bensley’s historical research and taste for rich color and pattern, it feels like an elegant, colorful palace. Large public spaces are appointed with a mix of antique Mustang treasures, lampshades decorated with cascading yak hair, and pops of orange and yellow. When not on daily excursions to nearby temples and villages, guests can visit the resort’s spa, which is overseen by a doctor of traditional Tibetan medicine. Each of the 29 rooms has a spacious bathroom — many with deep tubs — as well as woven tiger rugs on the polished black wood floors, and felt blankets from a Nepal-based workshop that supplies Hermes. But none of it can begin to compete with the view of Mount Nilgiri through the floor-to-ceiling windows. From $1,800/night, with a five-night minimum. Accessible hotel. — Gisela Williams  

Silversands Beach House, Grenada 

Courtesy of Silversands

Just three minutes from the airport — and steps from Portici Beach — the latest from luxury hospitality brand Silversands is a 28-room resort with hillside rooms offering panoramic views and canopied beachfront suites that almost touch the surf. All are designed with relaxing neutral tones, artwork handpicked by the property’s Egyptian developer, Naguib Sawiris, and floor-to-ceiling windows and doors that lead to expansive terraces or decks. The restaurant, Azzurro, blends Caribbean and Mediterranean cuisines in dishes like pasta topped with coconut-​and-panko-crusted shrimp and island-inspired sorbets. There are three more restaurants for guests to enjoy, as well as the longest pool in the Caribbean, at the bigger Silversands Grand Anse, 15 minutes away via Mercedes-Benz shuttle. From $700/night. Accessible hotel. ​ — Danielle Pointdujour

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

Silvestre Nosara Hotel & Residences, Costa Rica

Juan Tribaldos/Courtesy of Silvestre Nosara

If there is a formula for building a hotel that immediately makes you feel at home, Chris Ingham Brooke and Ilya Korolev, the owners of Costa Rica's newest boutique stay, Silvestre Nosara , have nailed it. Maybe it's because the nine-key property is also where Brooke and his family live, or perhaps it's because every single detail of the spacious residences was executed with the utmost consideration for the comfort and privacy of families. Each apartment-like residence has two bedrooms and two en suite bathrooms, plus floor-to-ceiling French doors that open to patios or balconies. The ground-level residences feature lush private gardens with saunas and cold-plunge bathtubs. The kitchens come with fully stocked refrigerators, and if you run out of something, the concierge team is happy to run out and get it from a nearby organic food store. Guests can head to the two-level rooftop for breakfast; the roof is also where you'll find the hotel's infinity pool and cabanas, surrounded by a canopy of trees providing shade from the ground. Naturally, if you've come all the way to Nosara with your family , you're probably here to soak up the sun and catch a few waves. So grab a complimentary board from the hotel's surf school and head straight down the hotel’s jungle path to the famous Playa Guiones, just five minutes away. From $960/night, with a three-night minimum. — Dobrina Zhekova

Singita Mara River Tented Camp, Serengeti, Tanzania

Courtesy of Singita

The most low-key property in Singita’s illustrious East African lineup is also the most exclusive. Singita Mara River Tented Camp is one of only a few permanent camps in the sought-after Lamai wedge, a spit of savanna sequestered from the vast Serengeti National Park by the Mara River. Reopened after a complete rebuild that saw infrastructure from the old camp cleverly repurposed, the camp is sexy and sustainable, and channels the adventurous spirit of a mobile operation — while still providing every imaginable creature comfort. Over 20 African designers and makers were commissioned to add their creative stamp to the new camp. The six well-spaced tents have king-size beds, outdoor tubs, and beaded Maasai artworks by Sidai Designs , an Arusha-based female collective. The chic but utilitarian interiors are done in bold blues and reds, inspired by traditional Maasai blankets. Compact design solutions like mobile wardrobes add to the clutter-free vibe; there’s even a canvas-clad mini-bar stocked with local beers, homemade fruit cordials, Champagne, and vegan chocolate. Like all Singita lodges, the hub of the camp is a bar where smoothies, cappuccinos, and craft cocktails are served by the 100-percent Tanzanian staff. The camp’s prime riverfront site guarantees front-row seats to all the predator-prey action during migration season, but sightings remain impressive year-round, thanks to plentiful resident plains game, including herds of buffalo and elephants, and all the big cats. Suites from $2,045 per person per night. — Jane Broughton

Six Senses Crans-Montana, Switzerland

Imagine you took a quiet, sleek spa with darkened windows and hushed hallways and deposited it onto a Swiss mountainside in an old ski town in the most skiable part of the Valais region, and you get the idea behind Six Senses Crans-Montana . In a town that still feels ripped from a 1987 calendar (in a good way!), the property is like a portal to the future that you can ski right into — or out of. And when you enter that portal from the cold slopes, a “ski concierge” will be waiting to rush your gear into a warm room to dry before it’s delivered to you again on your way out in the morning. My favorite parts of the 45 room-resort were the views of the Alps and the huge soaking tub in my room. Byakko, a lacquered jewel box of a Japanese restaurant on the second floor, serves sushi and other dishes not quite local to the Rhône Valley. The more woodsy Wild Cabin, on the first floor, is where you can have your smoothies for breakfast, pizzas at lunchtime, or game-heavy dinners. A local charcuterie and cheese course is served every evening in the lobby bar. But the pièce de résistance is the spa, a steamy subterranean waterworks with hot tubs and cold plunges, two full-size pools, and toasty massage rooms. From $1,090/night. Accessible hotel. — Devin Friedman

Six Senses Rome

Courtesy of Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas

The Eternal City has plenty of exclusive hotels where the brass is polished to a shine and the Negronis flow easily (see: the famed Hotel de Russie terrace). The new Six Senses , a 96-room temple to wellness, smack on Via del Corso and a five-minute walk to the Trevi Fountain, is a welcome departure from all that tradition. Fresh off a red-eye from New York City, I tested “biohacking” remedies at the subterranean spa, slipping on a blue-light facial mask, a back massager, and Normatec compression socks to shake off the jet lag, before making my way to a sprawling series of Roman baths — utterly palatial, by any city hotel standards. And though the property is housed in a 15th-century palazzo, with a central marble staircase that transported me back to the Renaissance, the overall vibe feels fresh and relaxed thanks to Milan-based designer Patricia Urquiola. In a nod to well-being, the rooms are designed to soothe, from the spare, cocciopesto-covered walls to the divine Naturalmat organic mattresses. They also give you a sense of place — contemporary photos of ancient Roman busts crown the beds — and if you're willing to splurge, the license to live like a local. Book a deluxe junior suite with a terrace, and you can enjoy a bottle of wine outdoors with the rooftops of the city seemingly at your fingertips. The travertine-clad lobby embraces warm earth tones, with plants and a skylight bringing the outdoors in; for true alfresco living, don’t miss the Notos Rooftop, a combination yoga studio, restaurant, and farmers market. How very 21st century is that? From $1,083/night. Accessible hotel. — Jacqueline Gifford

Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland 

From a distance, you could easily mistake Slieve Donard for a castle. The sprawling Victorian resort first opened 125 years ago as a railway hotel, becoming the grande dame of Newcastle, a small seaside resort town in Northern Ireland’s County Down. Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts — a brand with a collection of five historic properties located near some of Scotland and Northern Ireland’s best golf courses — completed Slieve Donard’s renovation in September. The transformed lobby and guest rooms highlight Northern Ireland’s natural beauty and the property’s heritage, and reimagined restaurants update the grandeur of the hotel’s heyday. J.J. Farrall’s, named after the hotel’s architect, serves afternoon tea and refined Irish cuisine at dinner; the Percy French, Lighthouse Lounge, and the Wolf offer more casual snacks and drinks. I was immediately struck by the hotel’s plush interiors, striking facade, and stunning views of the Irish Sea and the Mourne Mountains. Many of the 180 rooms look out over the Mournes, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — and home to Slieve Donard, the highest mountain in Northern Ireland and the hotel’s namesake. Beautiful hikes, Game of Thrones tours, and whisky distilleries are among the most popular things to do in the area, but many visitors come here for one thing: golf. The property is located right next to the Royal County Down Golf Club, which dates back to 1889 and is home to the Championship Course, widely recognized as one of the most beautiful in the world. From $286/night. Accessible hotel. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Son Bunyola Hotel & Villas, Mallorca, Spain

Courtesy of Son Bunyola Hotel & Villas

A stay at this sprawling property on Mallorca’s sunbaked western coast feels like a visit to a billionaire’s home, and in a sense, it is. Son Bunyola is the newest in Richard Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition hotel collection. The centerpiece of the 1,300-acre plot is a 16th-century manor, which houses 26 rooms and suites. There are also three multi-bedroom villas, one of which is built into a defense tower that dates back to the 13th century. The design team managed to make these storied structures feel like a home away from home. The result is an exclusive Mediterranean hideaway where guests spend their days sunning on yachts, sipping Mallorcan wines, and indulging in ancient Moroccan rituals at the spa. Nights are filled with seven-course tasting menus and starry views. It’s an adult playground, and that’s by design. Thankfully, when you check out, you can take the handmade espadrilles in your room with you, to continue the relaxation at home. From $703/night.​ Accessible hotel. — Jennifer Bradley Franklin

Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island, Australia 

GEORGE APOSTOLIDIS/Courtesy of Southern Ocean Lodge

When Southern Ocean Lodge first opened on an island off the coast of southern Australia in 2008, it set the bar for all-inclusive eco-lodges in Australia with its spectacular setting, striking design, and precise yet easygoing hospitality. But the resort burned to the ground in one of the devastating bushfires of 2020. Sheltering underground with smoke seeping into their bunker, longtime managers John Hird and Alison Heath vowed to rebuild. Their employer, Baillie Lodges, agreed, and the lodge reopened this past December. The 25 terraced suites have been updated to include soaking tubs, double vanities, and master controls for zoned lighting. Furnishings are smartly positioned — I could count the night stars through the floor-to-ceiling windows from bed — and the suites have also been angled to provide maximum privacy and views of the surf on the beach below. Chef Tom Saliba makes ample use of island ingredients, like hand-fed partridges, which he barbecues, and mushrooms for whipped tofu with panisse at breakfast. The lounge features a 1970s-style central fireplace and plenty of comfortable seating, but perhaps its greatest charm is a wide-open bar generously stocked with ingredients, a cocktail book that guests are encouraged to use to mix their own drinks, and bar accoutrements. The wine cellar is filled with southern Australian bottles to wander in and grab. The expanded spa now includes warm pools and cold plunges, plus a sauna, and those looking for adventure can book guided tours to spot fur seals and endangered sea lions. From $2,213/night. Accessible hotel.­ — Betsy Andrews

Tanda Tula Safari Camp, Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa

Courtesy of Tanda Tula

At this reimagined camp in the Timbavati , one of South Africa’s lesser-known private nature reserves, there are 180-degree views of the Nhlaralumi River, which is dry for much of the year, allowing for feet-in-the-sand sundowners and barbecues after immersive game drives. Part of the Greater Kruger region, the reserve is known for guaranteed, year-round sightings of leopards lurking in riverine thickets, large herds of buffalo, packs of wild dogs running free, and numerous prides of lions — including rare white lions. But perhaps the real luxury of choosing this intimate camp is that you’ll rarely bump into other safari cars while exploring the ecosystem, unlike reserves located inside Kruger that can be overrun with tourists. The interiors of the nine off-grid suites channel a strong sense of place through homegrown design that feels refreshingly modern, while still honoring the intricate patterns of traditional Tsonga motifs. Everything is steeped in the colors of the surrounding bush — including the deep aubergine of the purple pod cluster leaf, an indigenous tree. Sleek, statement bathrooms lead to open-air showers, private plunge pools, and incredible views. The service feels easy and intuitive, whether you’re arranging a massage in your suite or ordering lunch on your deck. Menus are in sync with the seasons and champion fresh produce grown by small-scale local farmers. Uplifting people is part of Tanda Tula’s DNA: through the work of the property’s foundation, your stay helps fund educational opportunities and scholarships for bright young minds, as well as an adult literacy program for staff. Suites from $1,338 per person per night. Accessible hotel. — Jane Broughton

The Fifth Avenue Hotel, New York City

William Abranowicz/Courtesy of The Fifth Avenue Hotel

The buzz on social media surrounding the debut of The Fifth Avenue Hotel was hard to ignore — especially with Sarah Jessica Parker as host of the grand opening. The Fifth, as those in the know call it, brought new life into Manhattan’s hospitality scene with 153 rooms and suites decorated in a maximalist style by the firm of designer du jour Martin Brudnizki. The interiors are defined by rich colors; luxurious tapestries; artwork like Queen Mary, a portrait by Alanna Airitam; and Murano-glass chandeliers that provide an air of fantasy. Café Carmellini, from chef Andrew Carmellini, is reminiscent of the HBO series The Gilded Age, with lush fabrics and balcony seating overlooking the dining room. But instead of icy glares between the Astors and the Russells, you’ll find delicious dishes like lobster cannelloni and rabbit cacciatore. Before you head back to your room, have a nightcap at the Portrait Bar. The Cebu Island, an inspired cocktail blending rum, scotch, and Midori with a variety of tropical ingredients, deserves a buzz of its own. From $895/night. Accessible hotel. ​— Danielle Pointdujour

The Georgian, Santa Monica, California 

Douglas Friedman/Courtesy of The Georgian

The First Lady, as The Georgian is often referred, first opened its doors in 1933 and quickly became a hangout for the Hollywood A-list crowd. In a sea of white buildings lining Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, California, The Georgian’s not-quite-Tiffany & Co. blue facade with gold trim pops. The eight-story hotel reopened in 2023 after an extensive renovation, and for Blvd Hospitality co-owners Jon Blanchard and Nico Rusconi, deciding what stayed and what went was a grand undertaking. Stayed: the original bathrooms in the 56 guest rooms, including the antique tile work, and that unquestionably Georgian blue facade, which is echoed in the bellhops’ baby-blue uniforms. Another vintage nod: The Georgian Room restaurant hosts Spaghetti Sundays, where I feasted on house-made garlic bread, spaghetti in a hearty marinara sauce, and Grandpa Tony's Meatballs, all a nod to the Red Griffin, the restaurant The Georgian housed in the ‘50s. Currently, the hotel offers a total of 84 guest rooms (including 28 suites), two open-to-the-public restaurants, an art gallery (with new exhibitions opening every two weeks), a library curated by Lee Kaplan of Arcana Books , a Peloton-outfitted gym, and a sultry, U-shaped lobby bar. A feast for the eyes, textures and colors fill every space. Pink chairs and yellow booths populate the outdoor terrace, coral-colored feathered lamps and mustard floor-to-ceiling curtains are seen throughout the lobby, and black-and-white images of Santa Monica line the walls. In the guest suites (one of which is named after Blanchard’s son, Hudson), there are record players and art deco–inspired bars, complete with a quartet of buttons that read like a directory: “Champagne,” “dessert,” “book club,” and “the usual,” the last of which is meant for repeat guests and their beverage/room service order of choice. From $700/night. Accessible hotel. — Alexandra Cheney

The Hotel Maria, Helsinki, Finland

Courtesy of The Hotel Maria

Founded by an Olympic champion and named for Empress Maria Feodorovna, the cosmopolitan mother of Russia’s last tsar, Helsinki’s The Hotel Maria has ambitions as rarefied as its pedigree. In 2020, Finnish developer (and three-time Olympic gold medalist) Samppa Lajunen acquired a parcel of mostly 19th-century buildings in the elegant Kruununhaka neighborhood and set out to convert them into the five-star hotel he believed Finland’s capital needed. The result is a 117-key property that blends glossy international luxury with Nordic sensibilities in a way that feels classic, even pleasantly old-school, as well as purposefully Finnish. The spa, for example, provides guests with an opportunity to try out the national obsession by alternating between sauna and cold plunge. And, throughout the hotel, 200 dreamlike, silvery paintings of iconic flora and fauna by homegrown artist Pia Feinik are on display. Thanks to quirks of the historic structures, every room is unique. Entry-level guest rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and those seeking something more distinctive can choose from 38 suites, including the sprawling, kitchen-equipped Imperial Suite, which feels like the pied-à-terre of a minor royal. Perhaps as an antidote to the winter darkness, around 180 chandeliers blaze in Maria’s rooms and public spaces, most strikingly in the sleek Bar Maria, where clusters of stylized glass icicles glow softly overhead. At the hotel’s hushed and refined flagship restaurant, Lilja, local ingredients like reindeer and cloudberry are foregrounded, and elbow room abounds (Finns like their personal space). Although Helsinki is often visited only as a day trip off a Baltic cruise, it’s a city with a welcoming, walkable center that rewards a longer stay, especially with The Hotel Maria as an unabashedly fancy — though not stuffy — home base. From $487/night . Accessible hotel. — Maggie Shipstead

The Hoxton, Brussels

Courtesy of The Hoxton

In the rapidly developing Northern Quarter of Brussels, close to the Bruxelles-Nord railway station, is a 198-room outpost of The Hoxton , the U.K. hotel brand’s first in Belgium. Concrete architraves adorning the windows, which local architecture practice 51N4E left intact, are a stark yet nostalgic reminder of the building’s industrial and corporate past as the former IBM Tower. But the interiors, courtesy of in-house creative team Aime Studios, exude warmth and softness. For instance, the striking double-height lobby is filled with plants, in homage to the 19th-century botanical garden that once stood nearby. This greenery is juxtaposed with artwork (the lower level doubles as the Hox Gallery) and a smattering of glamorous vintage furniture snagged at flea markets and secondhand shops across the region. Public spaces are buzzy: Cantina Valentina, the Peruvian-style restaurant, is packed with locals devouring ceviche and tequeños against a backdrop of artist Madeleine Schilling’s dreamy botanical mural. There’s also Tope, a rooftop taqueria, where artist Claire de Quénetain’s painted pink ripple wallpaper is enjoyed alongside jalapeño margaritas, cacti, and heady views of the city. After a frothy, orange flower-scented Pisco sour nightcap in one of the lobby’s cocooning chairs, guests head up to their color-blocked rooms, a mélange of deep red, cream, and sky blue punctuated by striped headboards, long oval-shaped glass room dividers, and velvet sofas. Bathrooms, outfitted with confetti-pink pedestal sinks, exude an equally delightful retro feel. From $217/night. Accessible hotel. — Alia Akkam

The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection, Los Olivos, California

Courtesy of Inn at Mattei's Tavern/Auberge Resorts Collection

The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern finally brings a luxurious place to stay to Los Olivos, a gem in the Santa Ynez Valley with a population of 1,132 that was crowned America’s best small food and culture town by T+L in 2023. The delightful 1880s property is pristine and enchantingly symmetrical, with guest houses coated in a gleaming layer of white paint and a red-shingled water tower sitting in the middle of an idyllic, greenhouse-flanked lawn. During my first evening, I crossed this perfect patch of grass to the Tavern restaurant for a round of martinis and just-out-of-the-oven focaccia, followed by clams served with a slab of pork belly in a garlicky broth. I then slipped down the hall to the Bar, housed in the tavern that original owner Felix Mattei opened in 1886, to finish my evening with a spicy red blend from the Santa Rita hills and a chocolate soufflé doused in caramel sauce. I loved strolling into town to taste wine at Dragonette Cellars , Story of Soil , and the beloved Stolpman Vineyards Fresh Garage — just a small sampling of the 27 wineries within walking distance of the hotel. There’s also the cute Los Olivos General Store and a new restaurant from the chef behind the Michelin-starred gem in nearby Los Alamos , Bell’s . But spending time at the hotel was equally tempting. On my last day, I gave in and just lazed by the pool, where I lunched on duck wontons and grilled shiitakes at the alfresco Gin’s Bar — named for Gin Lung Gin, the head chef at Mattei’s in the 1910s. From $950/night. Accessible hotel. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

The Lafayette Hotel & Club, San Diego

Courtesy of The LaFayette

After opening in 1946, The Lafayette Hotel & Club in San Diego quickly became a celebrity hot spot. Bob Hope, its first guest, owned a penthouse apartment there. Johnny Weissmuller, of “Tarzan” fame, designed the pool. Confirmed visitors included Ava Gardner, Frank Sinatra, and Katharine Hepburn; local lore says Marilyn Monroe might have checked in with a politically powerful friend of hers. Over the subsequent decades, The Lafayette’s star flickered. Three years ago, local restaurateur Arsalun Tafazoli bought the hotel, and after a stunning, $31-million renovation, The Lafayette reopened this past summer. While the landmarked exterior is largely unchanged, the interior shouts loudly with new life. The Brooklyn, New York–based firm Post Company orchestrated the unabashedly maximalist design: sofas and chairs with leopard print, zebra stripes, and bold florals; multicolored Mexican Talavera toilets; hand-painted murals; one custom wallpaper featuring kimono-clad women, another with jungle-dwelling bush babies. Look closely at the bedside reading lamps and the posts of the canopy beds, and you might spot snakes; Tafazoli sees the creatures as avatars of revitalization because of how they shed their old skins. And this isn’t style over substance: There are Sferra linens on the beds, Diptyque toiletries in every bathroom, and even stationery custom-printed with the guest’s name on the desk in every room. Listen up; famed music producer Swizz Beatz curated the soundtrack. The Lafayette’s exuberant eclecticism continues in its bars — there are three, including The Gutter, where you can play skee-ball and shuffleboard while you drink — and its restaurants, most notably Quixote, where Mexican-born chef José Cepeda serves modern takes on venerable family recipes. From $248/night. Accessible hotel. — Jeff Chu

The Lana, Dubai

Courtesy of The Lana

The Middle East debut for the Dorchester Collection is just another sign that when it comes to hospitality, Dubai is on the level of London, Paris, Rome, and Los Angeles. And The Lana still manages to stand out in a crowded field. That’s partly because of its location in Marasi Bay Marina, an upscale new development. The striking Foster & Partners building is avant-garde, while the interiors, from designers Gilles & Boissier, are more subtle, with soft pinks and sandy beiges that nod to the surrounding desert and elegant touches such as textured wallpaper and rich wood paneling in the 225 rooms and suites. There’s also a Dior spa and a trio of notable restaurants helmed by celebrated chefs — Martin Berasategui, Jean Imbert, and Angelo Musa. Locals are already clamoring to get into the rooftop bar, High Society, where I took in the skyline, martini in hand. From $925/night. Accessible hotel.­ — Chrissie McClatchie

The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel, Kerala, India

Courtesy of The Leela Palaces Hotels and Resorts

On the banks of Kerala’s second largest lake, Ashtamudi, The Leela offers visitors the chance to experience the unhurried beauty of Kerala’s backwaters. Tourist traffic on Ashtamudi is substantially lower than at Kerala’s other waterways, like the sought-after Kumarakom Backwaters and Alleppey Backwaters. While the new hotel is still a work in progress — a bar and restaurant, among other things, are not yet open — it is arguably the best in this underappreciated region. On a recent trip, I saw no tourists as I took the hotel boat around the lake in search of brackish water dolphins, only fisherfolk tending to their nets. After a morning on the lake, I had lunch at the hotel overlooking the lakeside garden. Here, guests can have a chef prepare the fish they catch on their trip, or visit a local market with one to buy produce and cook it together. Later that day, I enjoyed an Abhyanga treatment at The Leela’s spa, where the masseurs kneaded my travel-weary back. The hotel’s 93 rooms and suites are tastefully done up; where some rooms feature traditional Kerala mural work drawn from Hindu myths, others carry modern art. The furniture, too, is a mix of colonial and contemporary. The room to book: the Royal Heritage suite that offers an expansive view of the lake, sunset included. From $97/night. Accessible hotel. — Prasad Ramamurthy  

The Peninsula London

Will Pryce/Courtesy of The Peninsula London

The Peninsula brand, which operates a 96-year-old flagship in Hong Kong as well as properties as far-flung as Beverly Hills and Istanbul, spent 35 years looking for the right address in London. They found it on a prime corner overlooking Wellington Arch, in the heart of Belgravia. The eight-story building, its Portland-stone facade a nod to British craftsmanship, opened to the public in 2023. The timing couldn’t have been better — or worse — depending upon how you look at it, as the British capital is experiencing a luxury hotel boom. So what sets The Peninsula London apart? That location, for one. I was able to walk to Harrods and Buckingham Palace in 15 minutes, and yet still feel tucked away from the fray, thanks to the quiet courtyard, anchored by two 120-year-old Japanese maple trees, and the subterranean, forest-themed spa. The 190 rooms, designed by Peter Marino to soothe with their neutral, calming tones, start at a very generous 549 square feet. But the biggest perk might be the in-room technology, a Peninsula signature, so seamless I could charge all of my devices on a bedside table (some cord-free) without unpacking an adapter. If some parts of the hotel lean classic, others skew more whimsical, including the rooftop Brooklands Bar & Restaurant by Claude Bosi, themed around race cars and aviation (even if you don’t eat there, have a peek at the replica Concorde suspended from the dining-room ceiling). And Canton Blue, the formal Chinese restaurant, is a true feast for the eyes with its displays of suspended porcelain cups, plates, and antique musical instruments. Full from the excellent soup dumplings and Peking duck, I left my table at 11:30 p.m. — and the room was still abuzz. From $1,600/night. Accessible hotel. — Jacqueline Gifford

The Pinch, Charleston, South Carolina

Matthew Williams/Courtesy of The Pinch, Charleston

Just off of King Street in Charleston, South Carolina, the flicker of gaslight beckons those in the know down a cobblestone alley to The Pinch . Housed in a collection of 19th-century buildings, the property was brought to life by design and management company Method Co . Its 22 rooms and suites, plus three extended-stay residences, are furnished tip to toe in sumptuous materials — walnut herringbone floors, zellige tiles, burnt-orange velvet sofas, marble farmhouse sinks with unlacquered brass fixtures — but the overall feel is playful and easygoing, never fussy or formal. The hotel is also home to The Quinte, a moody, wood-paneled oyster bar that retains traces of its billiards parlor past, and Lowland, a fine-dining spot in a historic townhouse across the alleyway. Presiding over the culinary show is James Beard Award–winning executive chef Jason Stanhope, who gestures to Southern classics without veering into cliché. At Lowland, unexpectedly inspired dishes such as a celery salad with dates and cheddar stuck with me well after I pushed back from the table. The Pinch is just right for a long, leisurely stay, with washer-dryers in every room and kitchens that bear the design fingerprints of a true cook: hooded gas ranges, a full lineup of kitchen tools, and enough place settings to invite friends for dinner. It’s the details that make this place sing: there’s a white-noise machine by the bed, a burr grinder for the freshest coffee, a minibar lineup that nails the high-low mix (An adaptogenic zero-proof spritz? Yep. Moon pies? Also yep.). Pair all that with extended-stay discounts and a price tag that feels refreshingly reasonable, and a multiweek Charleston residency starts to look less like a pipe dream and more like an ideal plan for shaking off the midwinter blues. From $300/night. Accessible hotel. — Lila Harron Battis

The Restoration Asheville, North Carolina 

Blake Shorter/Courtesy of The Restoration Asheville

Front-door access to the best trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, abundant breweries, and a thriving art scene have made Asheville, North Carolina, one of T+L readers’ favorite American cities . But what’s long been missing is an elevated hotel in the heart of downtown. Enter The Restoration Asheville , a 60-key property from The Restoration Hotel Collection (which has a flagship property in Charleston ) that opened in April 2023. My room had a green suede chaise lounge and a dramatic, oversized church-window mirror. I appreciated the Appalachian touches throughout the property, like floor-to-ceiling murals by local painter Scott Allred depicting the nearby mountains. The library-themed lobby and the adjacent streetside patio are excellent places for coffee and people-watching. I also appreciated the variety of dining options, including The Exchange restaurant, which has upgraded Southern favorites, like a jalapeño- and buttermilk-battered fried chicken sandwich and a trout and chicory caesar salad, and The Draftsman, a basement-level bar with a bowling alley and skee-ball. But if you’ve come to Asheville, you’ve come to eat and drink your way through the city . I recommend brunch at Chai Pani or Cúrate , dinner at Neng Jr.’s , and cocktails at Anoche , a snug mezcal bar in the River Arts District. Plus, the new S&W Market , a food hall and taproom in a soaring art deco building, is next door to the Restoration. From $225/night. Accessible hotel. — Elizabeth Cantrell

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, Florida

Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Naples

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples , to me, has always embraced its status as a social hub with gusto. I’ve seen many an anniversary dinner, Champagne toast, and lavish, eggs Benedict–stuffed brunch celebrated on these grounds. Kids splash away in the wave-shaped family pool; adults indulge in stiff cocktails with their shoes off at Gumbo Limbo, the seaside restaurant; and everyone relaxes under the spell of that old-school, Ritz-Carlton service. Now, this 38-year-old resort – reopened after Hurricane Ian and a $100-million-plus glow up — leans more new school in its design. I was still greeted by a fleet of staffers outside the grand porte-cochere, but the lobby interior is less claustrophobic. Gone are the dark-wood beams, chandeliers, and thick carpet; in their place are brass accents and floating crystal pendants suspended above a marble-topped bar, the hot reservation on a Saturday night. The airy, nautical feel also extends into all 474 guest rooms, where I was impressed by the grasscloth headboards, the built-in bedside reading lamps, and the full-size bottles of Diptyque amenities. Seventy new suites and the largest Ritz-Carlton Club lounge in North America lie in the 14-floor Vanderbilt Tower, an addition that flows so well with the original building, you can’t really tell what’s old and new. Other fun tweaks include a new adults-only pool, 10 poolside bungalows (all named for Florida islands) with en suite bathrooms, and Sofra, which, unlike Gumbo, favors lighter dishes like heirloom tomato salad accompanied by barrel-aged feta and grilled whole sea bream. With dining trends moving the way they are these days, this Mediterranean spot, like the resort itself, will soon be the talk of the town. From $1,100/night. Accessible hotel. — Jacqueline Gifford

The Rome Edition

Nikolas Koenig/Courtesy of The Rome EDITION

The first thing you notice about The Rome Edition is its ideal location, a 10-minute walk from both the Borghese Gardens and the Trevi Fountain. Inside, you’re struck by the floor-to-ceiling green velvet curtains designer Patricia Urquiola chose to contrast with the travertine walls of the lobby, while boxy white sofas echo the straight-lined architecture. The 91 guest rooms feel minimalist, even with beds swathed in Italian linens and marble bathrooms stocked with Le Labo amenities. Cobalt-blue and lime-green upholstery pop against the white-oak paneling in the restaurant Anima, helmed by Paola Colucci, the chef behind Trastevere cult favorite Pianostrada. Diners rave about the pillowy focaccia topped with mortadella, smoked ricotta, pistachios, honey, and orange zest. For drinks, choose from the Jade Bar, the Punch Room, and the Roof, which offers memorable city views. From $747/night.​ — Laura Itzkowitz

The Rounds at Scribner’s, Hunter, New York 

From left: Chris Mottalini/Courtesy of The Rounds; Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

Does the perfect cabin in the woods exist? It does now. A new hotel within a hotel in New York’s Catskill Mountains promises forest bathing without the grit, a dose of nature while keeping it hygge. A set of just 11 cabins, inspired by the shape of yurts, they’re up the hill from Scribner’s Catskill Lodge , the destination lodge that’s popular with city families seeking an escape and groups of friends intent on a ski weekend without the hassles of flying. Picture the Muji Hotel Ginza , crossed with the chicest Airbnb A-frame you’ve ever seen in Joshua Tree, California, and you’ll have a feel for the cabins at the Rounds. Designed by Post Company (known for their work on Mollie Aspen , nearby upstate gem Inness , and The Lake House on Canandaigua ), the stand-alone cottages here are a fusion of Scandinavian and Japanese motifs, along with several contemporary features: oiled white-pine floors and trim, linens and cottons, an outdoor cedar soaking tub, angular accent lights, and a freestanding gas-fueled fireplace. In the five suites, a large sunken sitting area is the focal point, below a small skylight that affords plenty of natural light. (Another showstopper: the Calacatta Viola marble pedestal sink in the bathroom.) Guests have the full run of the main Scribner’s lodge, which has an array of games and activities (bocce in the summer, ice skating in colder months), plus a full-service restaurant, Prospect, where I sat at the bar and ordered the winter harvest salad and a pork chop with Morita chile sauce. The wine list features plenty of natural finds, including several from New York State. Those staying in the Rounds have their own communal spot, the Apex Lodge, a low-key place to grab a morning coffee or evening brew and check with the staff about hiking trails or local restaurants. While it’s certainly possible to simply veg out here, bouncing from one’s private deck to the soaking tub, there’s a nightly ritual that’s worth emerging for: once the sun sets, and the fire in the Lodge’s midcentury modern chiminea gets going, there’s no better place to be, s’mores in hand. From $450/night. Accessible hotel. — Paul Brady

The Singapore Edition

Courtesy of The Singapore Edition

With a slew of ambitious newcomers opening their doors and long-standing stalwarts emerging from floor-to-ceiling refurbishments, 2023 was a banner year for Singapore's hotel scene . Among the most-anticipated new arrivals was The Singapore Edition , the first Southeast Asian outpost of the buzzy, design-minded hotel group launched by nightlife guru Ian Schrager (of NYC's Studio 54 fame) and Marriott International. Those familiar with the brand will clock its hallmarks from the get-go: A sculptural staircase takes center stage in the marble-floored lobby; oversized artworks dot the common areas; and the 204 guest rooms channel the brand's signature minimalism through straight-lined furnishings in soothing palettes of ivory and oak. Even the Punch Room, the punch-focused cocktail bar now found at almost a dozen Edition hotels across the globe, made its Singapore debut swathed in eye-popping Yves Klein blue. But the hotel is far from a copy-and-paste affair. Uniquely Singaporean touches include lush indoor gardens that nod to the city's tropical greenery, and louvered window panels inspired by the homes that once dominated this neighborhood, called the Orchard Road district. Similarly fresh is The Edition Singapore’s signature restaurant, the aptly named Fysh, where Australian chef and self-proclaimed “fish butcher” Josh Niland serves up wildly innovative fin-to-tail creations such as noodles from fish bone, tuna merguez sausage, and sweet ice cream — really! — from fish eyeballs. From $400/night. Accessible hotel. — Chris Schalkx

The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya, Mexico

Courtesy of The St. Regis Kanai Resort

While all of the five-star service and amenities associated with The St. Regis brand are here (including the acclaimed 24-hour butler service and the nightly Champagne sabering), this Riviera Maya, Mexico, resort presents a significant break from tradition. About 40 minutes from Cancun, in the gated Kanai community, is an airy, architectural marvel that makes the most of its stunning natural setting — while still protecting it. The curved, overlapping circular design by Mexican architectural firm Edmonds International was inspired by the stellar constellation Pleiades. It reminded me of a bright-white UFO, gently hovering over lush green vegetation. Yes, it hovers: To achieve a minimal footprint, the entire resort is set on stilts above the surrounding mangroves, which bleed into the adjacent 620-acre Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The view from my sleek, spacious room looked out on the mangroves, with the smooth, white-sand beach and cerulean water beyond. The 143 rooms and suites (all with patios and many with private infinity pools) feature locally inspired details like green marble sinks nodding to Mexico’s cenotes, ceramic light pendants that evoke the stars above, and wood-carved headboards reminiscent of ancient Maya textiles. When I tired of the beach, I moved between the two pools, the spa with its hydrotherapy circuit, the well-curated boutique filled with Mexican-crafted creations, and the hotel’s eight bars and restaurants. I especially loved escaping to the library when I needed a break from the hot sun, sampling the Maya cacao and teas on offer. From $1,099/night. Accessible hotel. — Devorah Lev-Tov

Todos Santos Boutique Hotel, Mexico

Fernando Marroquin/Courtesy of Todos Santos Boutique Hotel

During the pandemic, a media-shy Mexican family of shoe tycoons visited Todos Santos, the enchanting oasis an hour up the coast from Los Cabos, and bought a cobweb-collecting lodge housed in the historic villa of a 19th-century sugarcane baron (as one does). With zero hospitality experience but a keen eye for design, the optimistic hoteliers renovated extensively and opened the Todos Santos Boutique Hotel in January, giving the building the thoughtful, exquisite inn its handsome Spanish Colonial–style bones deserve. Potted palms nearly skim the black coffered ceilings in the open-air lobby, where twin stone staircases cascade down to the pool, sunken like some chic little lagoon where tasseled khaki umbrellas have sprouted along the edges like mushrooms. The lush landscaping and surrounding brickwork — including a new-build casita housing four suites and upping the existing room total to 10 — give the space the cloistered vibe of a Mexican riad . With checkerboard marble floors in the lobby, a gold-framed art collection, impeccable woodwork covering La Copa bar, and emerald-tiled bathrooms, every new material feels considered and luxurious. Every preserved element feels historically purposeful, even the bullet holes peppering the foyer walls from a long-ago gunfight. Honestly, who wouldn’t kill for this property? From $796/night. Accessible hotel. — Adam Erace

Trunk(Hotel)Yoyogi Park, Tokyo 

Courtesy of Trunk

Since opening its first location in Harajuku in 2017, the Trunk brand has distinguished itself as Tokyo’s go-to cool-kid hangout. Its latest iteration, Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park , opened in September just steps from one of the city’s largest green spaces. The rooftop infinity pool provides views of the cityscape and the park’s tree canopy, best enjoyed over a cocktail from the oyster bar. The minimalist design, from Japanese architect Keiji Ashizawa and the Danish firm Norm Architects, mixes rough materials with high polish, adding washi-paper pendant lights by Kojima Shoten of Kyoto and Ariake paper-cord chairs. Some of the 25 rooms have terraces facing the park, freestanding bathtubs, and copper-trimmed room dividers. Pizzeria e Trattoria L’Ombelico offers all-day dining, and is best known for Tokyo-Neapolitan-style pies — made with an extra punch of salt. From $405/night.​ — Kristin Braswell

Ulum Moab, Utah

Courtesy of ULUM Moab

Ulum Moab is the first outpost of Ulum, a new brand from glamping hospitality giant Under Canvas. The concept was born from Under Canvas Moab guests' requests for "more comfort in nature," said Matt Gaghen, CEO of Under Canvas. And it certainly delivers: Despite technically staying in a tent, not once did I feel like I was roughing it. My 360-square-foot tent had a king-size bed, a queen-size sofa bed, temperature control, a rain shower, a 70-square-foot deck, and a bathroom stocked with Aesop amenities. The glamping resort, which sits on 200 acres of desert with views of 100-foot cliffs and the Looking Glass Arch, has 50 tents, hot and cold dipping pools, and a lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy the stunning views. The concierge can point guests to nearby hiking and biking trails at various state parks, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and rock climbing at Looking Glass Arch — and you’re just an hour away from both Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park . What took my breath away was the stargazing on clear nights; Moab is known for its low light pollution and uses International Dark Sky standards to keep it that way. The on-site cafe and restaurant serve breakfast and dinner, with a heavy emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and Southwest-inspired flavors. Even the cocktail and mocktail offerings are inspired by local flora. From $629/night. — Susmita Baral

Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Indonesia

Elspeth Velten/Travel + Leisure

Skirting the edge of a cliff above Bali’s southernmost point sits Hilton brand LXR’s newest resort: the 72-villa Umana Bali . On an island where resorts are clustered in major tourist centers like Seminyak, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran, LXR’s first resort in Southeast Asia is refreshingly off the beaten path in the village of Ungasan. The resort’s Balinese pride is on full display, starting from the traditional welcome ceremony that greeted me on arrival and continuing with the property’s terraced layout (a nod to Bali’s iconic tiered rice fields) and the jewel-box of local desserts in all colors of the rainbow at breakfast. Each of Umana’s one-, two- and three-room villas encircle their own massive infinity pools, with access directly from the primary bedroom (and a secret path to a tropical outdoor shower). Inside, villas are studded with touches from Bali designers like Kevala Ceramics and locally made sandals, beach bags, and sun hats for use during a stay. These local accents are complemented by top-of-the-line amenities like Sonos speakers and Toto Washlet toilets. I grabbed a sun hat while taking advantage of the hotel’s easy access to Melasti Beach, which has, in my opinion, some of the clearest water in Bali. During my stay, the Umana staff made everything on my Bali wish list happen: I enjoyed a morning village walk through the local market and past the temples at Ungasan, participated in a private sound healing session in the resort’s beautiful spa, and felt totally catered to when I brought up my pregnancy-related dietary restrictions. Whether I ate on-site at Commune or Oliverra, or indulged in an in-villa breakfast, I never had to mention a specific restriction twice. From $750/night. Accessible hotel. — Elspeth Velten

Vermelho, Alentejo, Portugal

Rodrigo Cardoso

While today, few travelers can point to the tiny village of Melides on a map, that could soon change with the opening of Vermelho , the first hotel from legendary shoe designer Christian Louboutin. Portuguese architect Madalena Caiado made the property look like the centuries-old monasteries found throughout the region; Louboutin, the king of red-lacquered soles, selected every eye-catching interior detail. Opulent carpets? Yes. A chandelier shaped like a celestial sea urchin? Absolutely. An installation of 100 ceramic bird heads by the artist Elisabeth Lincot? You bet. Many pieces were pulled from Louboutin’s personal collection, including vintage prints and intricately designed textiles. Vermelho’s centerpiece is a cocktail lounge with an ornate silverwork bar made by Sevillian jeweler Orfebre Villareal. The restaurant, Xtian, serves classic Portuguese dishes with international flavors. Each of the 13 rooms and suites has a different look, but all come with enormous tiled tubs and colorful Frette robes. Outdoors, noted landscape designer Louis Benech has added peaceful gardens and a heated natural swimming pool. From $322/night. Accessible hotel. ​​ — Lindsay Cohn

Villa Mabrouka, Tangier, Morocco

Chris Wallace

Nearly 30 years after first arriving in Morocco in 1966, Algerian-born couturier Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, Pierre Bergé, bought Dar Mabrouka, a whitewashed villa in Tangier overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar, and made it their summer home. In 2019, more than 10 years after Saint Laurent’s death, English designer Jasper Conran purchased the property, renamed it Villa Mabrouka , and transformed it into a 12-suite hotel. During my stay, I couldn’t help being reminded of the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles—partly because of the laid-back, house-party atmosphere, and partly because of the eclectic design style. The mélange of pieces in the Marrakech Suite (formerly Saint Laurent’s bedroom) included an inlaid pearl table from Syria, a Kermit-green cashmere throw from India, and Moroccan lanterns. The gardens overflow  with 6,500 new plants, shrubs, and trees, as well  an emerald herringbone tiled pool. The newly constructed dining gazebo has a trompe l’oeil wallcovering painted by the English artist Lawrence Mynott, and serves a can’t-miss Berber tagine. From $490/night . Accessible hotel. — Chris Wallace

Volga Hotel, Mexico City

Courtesy of VOLGA

I barely knew where to rest my eyes at the architecturally inventive Volga Hotel , the latest offering from the Mexican hospitality group Hamak that takes the concept of a "design hotel" to new levels. Perhaps guests should think of it as an urban cenote — or at least that’s what Javier Sánchez, one of the three Mexican architects behind this hotel, which opened its doors fall 2023 in the trendy neighborhood of Cuauhtémoc, wants you to think. The aesthetic experience begins when approaching the hotel from the street: its Brutalist, fortress-like exterior gives no clue as to the magic that lies within. Once inside, guests descend a circular stairway made of shining copper, down into near darkness, to the reception desk and lobby located one floor underground, where raw-concrete walls sprout exuberant plants. The 50 spacious rooms have the spare, calming aesthetic of a Japanese ryokan , with natural materials — wood, volcanic rock, brass, and Turkish marble — and are stocked with scented bath amenities from local company Aromaría. All have interior balconies with curved wooden screens that offer privacy when shut, or slide open to offer ringside seats to the courtyard far below, which is occupied during mealtimes by a fine-dining Mexican-Mediterranean restaurant run by the celebrity chef Edo Kobayashi. The reservations-only lounge, the Music Room, is where hip young Mexicans sip mezcal- and tequila-forward cocktails as local DJs play, but the outside world is not entirely ignored. Take the elevator to the rooftop during the day and you step out into an explosion of brilliant sunshine and a bar serving "ethnobotanical" drinks around a heated lap pool with 180-degree views of the city. From $416/night. — Tony Perrottet

Courtesy of W Budapest

In July, the W Hotel brand opened its grandest property yet, in the Hungarian capital’s UNESCO-listed Drechsler Palace. The W Budapest is the revival of an architectural gem that also showcases W’s new creative direction: grounded in elegance and sophistication, without foregoing the brand’s fun side. On entering the hotel, guests walk through archways made from an intricate metallic mesh — a modern "second skin" designed to represent the building’s new life. Other details that blend past and present, and celebrate the city's history, can be found throughout the interior — from the wave-like glass ceiling covering the courtyard to the mirrored walls that create an optical illusion in the underground spa, a nod to Hungarian escape artist Harry Houdini. In fact the serene spa, with its aromatherapy steam room, Finnish sauna, and heated relaxation pool, is one of the hotel’s highlights, and offers a welcome moment of tranquility in the heart of this busy city. I had a phenomenal de-stress massage that cured all signs of jet-lag and fatigue. Another way to unwind? Head to the hotel's underground speakeasy, Society25, where head bartender Stefano Ripiccini has dreamt up a cocktail list inspired by the Belle Époque. From $326/night. Accessible hotel. — Dobrina Zhekova

Warren Street Hotel, New York City 

Simon Brown/Courtesy of Warren Street Hotel

When Joni Mitchell wrote, “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot,” she certainly wasn’t singing about Warren Street. In quite the opposite turn of events, British designer Kit Kemp and her Firmdale Hotels group took a soulless parking lot in New York City’s Tribeca neighborhood and erected its very own turquoise steel-and-glass paradise from the ground up. Bursting with contemporary art and Kemp’s signature prints, the Warren Street Hotel quickly secured its spot as my happy place in New York; even on the cold, gray first week of February, I found it was impossible to hold onto a sour mood upon entering. In its 69 unique rooms, colors and patterns mix in unexpected ways, creating the feeling that anything could happen. In addition to her beloved London lineup , this is Kemp’s third NYC hotel. She’s the creative mind behind the Crosby Street Hotel in SoHo and The Whitby Hotel in Midtown, but the opening of Warren Street may be her most whimsical creation yet. She worked on the project with her daughters, Willow and Minnie Kemp, and the mother-daughter connection is undoubtedly what injected such warmth into the stylish property, particularly in its suites and residences. Mine came with a bookshelf-lined lounge, fireplace, and marble soaking tub with a TV hung beside it, beckoning me to stay in for the night. Some are even outfitted with the ultimate city luxury: private terraces with manicured gardens. Regardless of room type, expect floor-to-ceiling windows and a space that will entice you to linger a little bit longer and order breakfast in bed. (Yes, even with downtown Manhattan waiting outside.) Still, don’t keep all your meals behind closed doors. Downstairs, the Warren Street Bar & Restaurant , an all-day brasserie with a big personality, was already drawing locals when I visited in the hotel’s first month. From $925/night. Accessible hotel. — Nina Ruggiero

Wilderness Usawa Serengeti, Tanzania

Courtesy of Wilderness

The main attraction of virtually any Serengeti safari is invariably the great migration, the 1,200-mile mass journey of more than 2 million wildebeest and zebra each year. Chasing that magnificent natural spectacle is especially thrilling at Usawa , a new roving camp from luxury safari company Wilderness , which migrates along with the animals, following the herds across nine sites in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. The camp starts the year in the southern part of Serengeti National Park, in Kusini (where the calving season runs from January to March), and makes it all the way to Bologonja in the north (where wildlife famously crosses the Mara River). Each of the camps is identical, with six canvas-wrapped guest tents featuring king-size beds, all-natural skin care products, and colorful decor like woven blankets and upcycled glassware — all handmade by Tanzanian artisans. Usawa, which means “balance” in Swahili, is also fully off-grid, operating via a combination of solar panels, portable sewage tanks, and mobile batteries. The light footprint means wildlife is never disturbed as camps are manually erected and deconstructed, making game drive–worthy sightings possible even from your tent — and leaving no trace behind once Wilderness packs up and moves to the next location. Sustainability plays a part in the culinary offerings as well, with elevated traditional recipes like creamy  mtori  plantain soup and spicy curry showcasing fresh veggies and meat from Tanzania’s robust farming communities. Most satisfying of all at Usawa, however, is the chance to see one of nature’s greatest phenomena up-close, year-round: dramatic Mara River crossings by the thousands, big cats and other predators in action, and the birth of hundreds of calves in a single day. From $950 per person per night, with a minimum two-night stay. — Jackie Caradonio

Yowie Hotel, Philadelphia

Bre Furlong/Courtesy of Yowie

Shannon Maldonado opened Yowie , a tiny shop in Philadelphia’s Queen Village neighborhood, in 2017, garnering a devoted following with her ever-evolving collection of cool, highly curated wares. In what feels like a natural evolution, last July, the designer opened a boutique hotel where nearly every item in the rooms is available to purchase. If walking through her shop is like getting a glimpse into Maldonado’s dynamic world, checking into the Yowie Hotel is getting to live inside it, even just for a night. The 11-room hotel is situated on the city’s historic South Street, anchored on the ground floor by the new Yowie shop and Wim, a bright, minimalist cafe. Accommodations range from a cozy room with a king-size bed to a two-bedroom suite, and while each space is outfitted with a kitchen and splashed in her calculated mashup of contemporary furniture, color, and custom art, no two are the same. Yowie is an invisible service hotel, which means in lieu of a check-in desk, you’ll get a welcome text with a code to unlock the doors. It’s all the more impressive, then, that even without the traditional hotel trappings, the designer and her team manage to impart so much warmth into the guest experience. Find a poster by the elevator with this month’s neighborhood happenings, a drawer full of goodies you may have forgotten to pack in the hallway, and a handwritten welcome note alongside a few paper guides recommending the staff’s favorite Philly spots in your room. And since there’s no lobby, I didn’t have to walk through the shop or cafe, but I wanted to for a salted caramel latte and a spiced carrot toast at Wim, and to pick up a few ceramic cereal bowls I admired in the room, as a way to bring a little piece of Yowie home. From $215/night . Accessible hotel. — Regan Stephens

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