On 9 December 2025, Norway unveiled the world’s first panoramic night train designed for northern lights viewing. Launched in the Arctic regions of northern Norway, the train offers a new way to see the aurora borealis. Instead of braving freezing temperatures outdoors, passengers can enjoy the spectacle from a purpose-built scenic carriage. Innovation and sustainability sit at the heart of the experience.
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For decades, the northern lights have drawn visitors to Scandinavia’s far north, especially around Tromsø and Narvik. Now, this rail journey changes the rhythm of aurora chasing. The journey itself becomes the highlight. Passengers watch the sky unfold continuously, rather than waiting at fixed viewpoints.
Panoramic design meets Arctic luxury
Image credit: CPG
The train has been designed with aurora viewing as its priority. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels stretch across the sides and roof of each carriage. As a result, passengers enjoy uninterrupted views of the Arctic sky. Reclining, sky-facing seats allow travellers to lie back as the northern lights ripple overhead.
Luxury appears in quiet, thoughtful ways. The interior follows a minimalist Scandinavian style. Plush seating and generous legroom create a calm and inviting space. Soft, low-level lighting reduces glare and protects night vision. Onboard service includes warm beverages. At selected stops, passengers can step outside, gather around bonfires, and photograph the aurora beneath the open sky. Together, these touches transform the journey into a curated Arctic experience.
A route built for aurora hunting
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The train departs from Narvik, Norway’s northernmost railway hub. From there, it travels through areas known for frequent geomagnetic activity. This timing is significant. The current solar cycle peak between 2024 and 2026 is expected to produce stronger auroral displays.
What is equally important is that the route avoids major sources of light pollution. This careful planning improves visibility and increases the chances of clear sightings. At selected stops, including the remote station of Katterat, passengers can disembark briefly. These moments add texture to the journey. Storytelling, photography advice, and local insight blend seamlessly with the raw beauty of the Arctic night.
Sustainability at its core
Image credit: Google AI
Sustainability underpins the entire project. The panoramic night train uses existing railway infrastructure rather than creating new routes. This approach helps protect fragile Arctic landscapes. The service also runs on electricity from Norway’s predominantly renewable energy grid.
At the same time, the train offers a cleaner alternative to road-based aurora tours. Fewer cars and buses mean less noise, reduced light pollution, and lower stress on wildlife. As a result, travellers can experience the Arctic more quietly and respectfully. The train positions itself not only as a premium offering, but also as a more responsible way to explore the far north.
Where to book your journey
The panoramic night train departs from Narvik, Norway’s northernmost railway hub, and travels to the remote station of Katterat, with stops along the way for short outdoor excursions. Tickets can be booked directly on the train operator’s official website, which allows travellers to select departure dates between October and March, choose their preferred seating class, and reserve any onboard amenities such as warm beverages or guided aurora photography tips. Booking in advance is highly recommended, as seats are limited and demand peaks during the height of the northern lights season.
Also read: Northern Lights in Norway: A 10D7N Itinerary
A new chapter is lighting up the aurora tourism scene
With panoramic glazing, controlled lighting, and a purpose-built route, Norway’s first panoramic night train reshapes how travellers encounter the northern lights. Passengers no longer need to chase forecasts or wait outdoors in extreme cold. Instead, they enjoy a continuous view of the sky while moving through remote northern landscapes.
More than transport, the train acts as a moving observatory and a refined Arctic retreat. It reflects the growing appeal of slow, experience-led travel. As demand rises for journeys that balance comfort, sustainability, and wonder, this rail service sets a new benchmark for aurora tourism and offers a fresh perspective on one of nature’s most captivating phenomena.