In some parts of the world, the sun plays by different rules. Sometimes it doesn’t set for weeks, and other times it disappears for months, leaving only darkness and the northern lights. These extremes shape how people live, from late-night festivals to quiet winter days. Here are 8 countries where you can experience the longest days and nights.
1. Norway
In places like Tromsø, Nordkapp, Lofoten, and Svalbard, the sun doesn’t set for weeks. In Svalbard, it stays up from April to August. June and early July are the best times to enjoy midnight hikes, fjord kayaking, and magical skies.
2. Iceland
Visit Grímsey Island to see the midnight sun. Even in Reykjavík, the skies stay bright late into the night. Around June’s solstice, you can explore lava fields and relax in hot springs under endless daylight.
3. Sweden
In Swedish Lapland (Kiruna, Abisko, Gällivare), the sun shines for nearly 50 days straight. Abisko is famous for clear skies and 2am daylight hikes. Early June is perfect for camping and fishing.
4. Finland
In Finnish Lapland, the sun doesn’t set for more than 70 days. Utsjoki and Rovaniemi enjoy bright nights perfect for midnight golf, lake swims, and hiking without flashlights. June is the brightest time.
5. United States (Alaska)
In Utqiagvik (Barrow), Alaska, the sun stays up for 84 days from May to August. Further south in Fairbanks and Denali, you still get 22 hours of light, great for hiking and fishing.
6. Greenland
In Qaanaaq and Ilulissat, summer brings weeks of sunlight. Icebergs glow golden at midnight, making it a photographer’s paradise. July is best for boat rides and whale watching.
7. Canada
In Nunavut and the Arctic regions, the sun never sets for about two months. In Whitehorse and Yellowknife, twilight lingers past midnight. June is perfect for canoeing, road trips, and wildlife watching.
8. Russia
In Murmansk, the sun stays up for two months. This is the time to hike tundra trails, cruise the White Sea, and explore Sami culture. June is the brightest time to visit.
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