This post was updated on December 11, 2023.

Believe it or not, there are certain regions on Earth where you can experience 24 hours of darkness or daylight depending on the season. The phenomenon of 24 hours of darkness is known as the “polar night,” while 24 hours of daylight is referred to as “the midnight sun.”

If you are looking for a destination with 24 hours of darkness, you will find it in the polar regions during their respective winter seasons. Specifically, countries like Norway — called, appropriately enough, “the land of the midnight sun” — Sweden, Finland, and parts of Russia like Murmansk and Norilsk experience the polar night, during which the sun does not rise above the horizon for several weeks or even months.

Conversely, if you are looking for countries that have 24 hours of sunlight, you can visit areas within or near the Arctic Circle during the summer months. Places such as Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and parts of Canada — including Tromsø in Norway, Reykjavik in Iceland, and Fairbanks in Alaska — have regions that experience the midnight sun phenomenon. During this time, the sun remains above the horizon for the entire day, providing continuous daylight.

For specific information on sunrise time and sunset time in different locations, it is best to consult a reliable online source or use a smartphone application that provides accurate and up-to-date data based on your desired location and date. The exact duration of daylight or darkness can vary depending on the latitude and the specific time of year. As you move closer to the poles, the periods of continuous daylight or darkness become longer.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your bags, book those flights, and get ready to experience something that’s totally out of this world!

Fairbanks, Alaska (Midnight Sun)

For a close-to-home encounter with the enchanting phenomenon of the midnight sun, Fairbanks, Alaska stands out as an excellent destination. As the second-largest metropolitan area in the state and the closest American city to the Arctic Circle—merely 120 miles away—Fairbanks offers a unique opportunity to bask in the magic of continuous sunlight.

The sun’s radiance begins to expand around March, gradually lengthening the days until the peak of the summer solstice, during which the city experiences an entire month of uninterrupted daylight. To immerse yourself in this extraordinary natural event, consider attending the renowned Midnight Sun Festival, where the city comes alive under the perpetual glow of the sun. This captivating experience is not only a testament to the Earth’s axial tilt but also a celebration deeply rooted in the region’s history and cultural significance!

St. Petersburg, Russia (White Night)

While it doesn’t have 24 hours of sun, St. Petersburg is famous for its “White Nights,” when the twilight lingers through the night, allowing you to go ahead with usual daytime activities without the need for too much artificial light. Usually occurring every year from June 11 to July 2, the White Nights are also a reason to party, as the last 10 days of June are filled with concerts, ballet performances, carnivals, and a massive fireworks display during what is known as the White Nights Festival.

Although St. Petersburg doesn’t experience a full 24 hours of continuous sunlight, it is renowned for its captivating “White Nights”. From June 11 to July 2 each year, the city bathes in an extended twilight, allowing residents and visitors to engage in daytime activities well into the night without relying heavily on artificial lighting. The tradition of celebrating the White Nights dates back centuries, with roots in the city’s rich culture. The annual White Nights Festival, especially vibrant during the last 10 days of June, amplifies the festive spirit. Attendants of this event can join into plenty of cultural events, including concerts, ballet performances, and a spectacular fireworks display as the perfect ending to the festivities.

Hammerfest, Norway (Midnight Sun)

Up for a Nordic holiday with a delightfully different experience? Then head to Hammerfest for the spring or summer. Over there, the midnight sun illuminates the night sky from mid-May to almost the end of July. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, you can’t beat the extended hours available to you for hiking, fishing, boating, and mountain biking. For those that prefer other activities, there’s a 24-hour golf course in the nearby town of Repparfjord…just in case you want to play a round or two at midnight!

Reykjavik, Iceland (Midnight Sun)

Already a travel hotspot thanks to its captivating scenery, Iceland becomes an even hotter ticket during the summer months when the days get longer. Around the summer solstice (June 21), the sun sets just after midnight and rises again at 3 a.m., and there’s no better city to be in than Iceland’s capital Reykjavik. There’s plenty of action, as there’s a half-marathon, plenty of late-night (or should we say early morning?) drinking at bars, and the three-day Secret Solstice festival that usually features international music heavyweights as headliners

Svalbard, Norway (Polar Night)

Located between Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is an archipelago known for its remote and captivating landscapes. During its polar night season — spanning from mid-November to the end of January — the region experiences near-constant darkness, creating an ideal environment to witness the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Borealis (aka Northern lights).

Beyond its celestial wonders, Svalbard has a rich history as a hub for Arctic exploration and mining activities, with remnants of early settlements and coal mining operations dotting the islands. The area is ruled by the Svalbard Treaty, granting equal access to multiple nations for scientific and economic activities. Therefore, traveling to Svalbard will not only immerse yourself in the mesmerizing dance of the Northern lights but also step into a land steeped in Arctic exploration history and international cooperation.

Helsinki, Finland (Midnight Sun)

During the primary midnight sun period in Finland — that is, June and July –, immersing yourself in the vibrant capital city of Helsinki proves to be an amazing experience. Its waterfront provides a picturesque backdrop for classic Finnish summer activities, such as island hopping or indulging in local cuisine at open-air markets.

For a unique cultural experience, venture to Lapland for the Midnight Sun Film Festival, an event embedded in Finland’s cinematic heritage. Additionally, the musical appeal of the Kalottjazz & Blues Festival in Tornio and Haparanda, near the Swedish border, adds a rhythmic dimension to the celebration of the sun that spans beyond the natural wonder of continuous daylight, delving into the artistic heartbeat of Finland.

Tromsø, Norway (Polar Night)

While having most of a day shrouded in darkness may sound downright spooky and depressing to some, the holiday season revelry is celebrated by many locals in Norway. In Tromsø, the polar nights last for six weeks between late November and mid-January, but this doesn’t mean there’s a lack of color. Sunset-like shades dazzle through the clouds during the day while the absolute dark periods (which can last for weeks) are the best time to see the northern lights in all their glory.

FAQs:

Q: What is the best time of year to visit these locations for the midnight sun or polar night experiences?
A: The best time varies by location. For the midnight sun, visit Fairbanks, St. Petersburg, Hammerfest, Reykjavik, and Helsinki around late May to July. For the polar night, Svalbard and Tromsø are ideal from mid-November to late January.

Q: Are there any health considerations when traveling to these extreme daylight conditions?
A: Yes, the unusual light conditions can affect sleep patterns. It’s advisable to bring eye masks for sleeping, especially during the midnight sun. Also, be mindful of maintaining a regular sleep schedule to avoid fatigue.

Q: What kind of clothing should I pack for these destinations?
A: For summer destinations (midnight sun), bring light, breathable clothing but also include layers for cooler evenings. For winter destinations (polar night), pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.

Q: How do I get around in these locations?
A: Most destinations are accessible by air. Once there, public transportation like buses and trains are available in larger cities, while rental cars are a good option for more remote areas.

Q: What are some local customs or cultural tips I should be aware of?
A: In each location, local customs may vary. It’s generally respectful to greet locals in their language and be mindful of public etiquette. Research specific cultural norms for each destination before traveling.

Q: Can I see the Northern Lights at all these locations?
A: The Northern Lights are visible in polar night regions like Svalbard, Tromsø, and Fairbanks. Visibility depends on solar activity and weather conditions, with the best chances during winter months.

Q: Are these destinations suitable for family travel?
A: Yes, most of these locations offer family-friendly activities. However, consider the extreme weather conditions and daylight hours when traveling with children, and plan activities accordingly.

Got a recommendation for a destination to take in some extreme daylight or night? Let us know in the comments section below!