Brilliant aurora display over Abisko National Park, Sweden's aurora capital
🇸🇪Sweden💎 Hidden Gem

Abisko

9/10
📸 Jonatan Pie

Aurora purists who want scientifically the clearest skies on Earth for northern lights viewing

Aurora Score
9/10 ✦
Daily Budget
$155/day
Access
✈️ Easy access
Dark Hours (Winter)
20h

About Abisko

Abisko in Swedish Lapland is arguably the world's best guaranteed aurora viewing location — and the science backs this up. A unique microclimate, created by the surrounding mountains channelling dry air from Norway, gives Abisko's Torneträsk lake valley the lowest cloud cover of any inhabited location above the Arctic Circle. Statistics show clear skies on average 300 nights per year. The Aurora Sky Station, reached by chairlift to 900m, operates dedicated tours with heated glass cabins and expert guides. STF Abisko Mountain Station is the main accommodation hub, a surprisingly comfortable research station-turned-guesthouse. Abisko is the start of the famous Kungsleden hiking trail, making it equally popular in summer. The train journey from Narvik through the mountains is one of Europe's great scenic rail routes.

Best Time to Visit

Monthly Weather & Aurora

MonthAvg TempDark HoursAurora Chance
Jan★ Best-13°C20hHigh
Feb★ Best-11°C15hHigh
Mar★ Best-7°C9hHigh
Apr-2°C3hLow
May+3°CMidnight sun
Jun+10°CMidnight sun
Jul+13°CMidnight sun
Aug+12°CMidnight sun
Sep+6°C5hMed
Oct0°C12hHigh
Nov★ Best-6°C18hHigh
Dec★ Best-10°C20hHigh

Activities

Getting There

Train from Narvik (1h) or Kiruna (2h) on the iconic Ofoten/Iron Ore Line. Or fly to Kiruna then take the train. Self-drive from Kiruna (90min on E10).

Accommodation Highlights

  • Stf Abisko Hostel
  • Aurora Sky Station
  • Wilderness Lodges

Location

💎 Hidden Gem

Abisko is one of PolarTourist's hidden gems — a lesser-known destination that offers an exceptional aurora experience without the crowds.

Budget Estimator

3 nights21 nights
Budget
$814
Typical
$1,085
Comfort
$1,519

Based on avg $155/day in Abisko. Includes accommodation, food, local transport & one guided tour. Flights not included.

Quick Info

LanguageSwedish (English widely spoken)
Regionarctic
Coordinates68.35°N, 18.83°E

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to see the northern lights in Abisko?+
The best months for aurora viewing in Abisko are 11, 12, 1, 2, 3. Abisko has an aurora score of 9/10.
How much does a trip to Abisko cost?+
The average daily budget in Abisko is around $155 USD, covering accommodation, meals, and activities.
How do I get to Abisko?+
Train from Narvik (1h) or Kiruna (2h) on the iconic Ofoten/Iron Ore Line. Or fly to Kiruna then take the train. Self-drive from Kiruna (90min on E10).
What activities are available in Abisko?+
Popular activities in Abisko include Northern Lights Tours, Aurora Sky Station, Dog Sledding, Snowshoeing, Cross Country Skiing, Ice Climbing, Reindeer Sledding.