Norway took a new step in tourism innovation by inaugurating in December 2025 its first panoramic night train specially designed to observe the Northern Lights. Named the Midnight Aurora Route, this project combines railway technology, comfort, and sustainability to offer a unique experience: Witnessing one of the most impressive natural phenomena on the planet without being exposed to the extreme temperatures of the Arctic winter.
The initiative strengthens Norway’s position as one of the world’s leading destinations for nature tourism and immersive experiences. Unlike traditional excursions by vehicle or outdoor tours, this train allows travelers to enjoy the celestial spectacle from heated, fully glass-enclosed carriages, where the nocturnal landscape becomes the true star of the journey.
The world’s first panoramic night train to see the Northern Lights in Norway
The Midnight Aurora Route is considered the world’s first panoramic night train created exclusively for Northern Lights observation. Its carriages feature glass walls and ceilings, reclining seats, and low-level lighting designed not to interfere with visibility of the night sky.
The route runs through northern Norway, one of the regions with the highest chances of spotting auroras due to its geographic location and low light pollution. The journey lasts several hours, giving passengers ample time to enjoy the scenery, the stillness of the night, and — if weather conditions allow — the iconic dance of green, violet, and pink lights across the sky.
As for the price, the ticket costs around 130 euros (approximately US$140), a fare considered relatively affordable within Arctic tourism, where similar experiences often come at a much higher cost.
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A comfortable, sustainable, and accessible experience
One of the main attractions of the new train is that it eliminates the need to endure extreme cold, one of the biggest barriers for many travelers interested in seeing the Northern Lights. From inside the train, passengers can remain warm and comfortable while the natural landscape unfolds outside.
Beyond comfort, the project has a strong focus on sustainable tourism. By promoting rail travel, Norway aims to reduce the environmental impact associated with other types of excursions, such as individual car travel or heavily motorized tours. In this way, the Midnight Aurora Route presents itself as a more eco-friendly alternative for exploring the Arctic.
Tourism and railway authorities have highlighted that this train not only attracts international visitors but also boosts economic development in northern regions of the country, which are traditionally less visited during the winter season.