Witnessing One of Earth’s Most Magical Phenomena
Best Places to See the Northern Lights a Few natural spectacles on Earth can compare to the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Imagine standing beneath a vast, star-filled Arctic sky as shimmering waves of green, pink, and violet light ripple across the horizon. It feels like magic — but it’s pure science, caused by charged solar particles colliding with Earth’s atmosphere.
For travelers, seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket list dream, one that draws adventurers to the world’s most remote and frozen landscapes. Whether you choose to chase the aurora in Iceland, Norway, Finland, Canada, or Alaska, every location offers its own unique setting — from cozy glass igloos to snow-covered forests and frozen fjords.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll reveal the best places on Earth to see the Northern Lights, when to go, where to stay, and how to make your aurora experience unforgettable Best Places to See the Northern Lights
What Causes the Northern Lights?
The Aurora Borealis occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with gases in Earth’s magnetic field. These collisions release light, painting the sky with ribbons of color.
The most common shades are green and pink, though you may also see red, yellow, and even deep purple on especially active nights.
To witness this celestial ballet, you need:
- Dark, clear skies (away from city lights)
- High latitude locations near the Arctic Circle
- Cold, dry weather
- Patience and luck — the aurora is never guaranteed!
When Is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights?
The aurora season runs roughly from late September to early April, with peak viewing during October–March.
- Best hours: Between 9 PM and 2 AM
- Best months: February and March (clear skies, longer nights)
- Avoid: Full moons or cloudy weather
Pro tip: Check the Aurora Forecast (Kp-index) before heading out. Websites and apps like Aurora Alerts or SpaceWeatherLive can predict activity levels a few days in advance.
Top 12 Best Places to See the Northern Lights
1. Tromsø, Norway – The Gateway to the Arctic
Tromsø is often called the “Capital of the Northern Lights.” Nestled above the Arctic Circle, it combines dramatic mountain landscapes with easy accessibility — direct flights from Oslo make it a perfect starting point. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Why go:
- Consistent aurora activity from September to April
- Many guided tours and photography workshops
- Cozy cabins and luxury stays with panoramic views
Where to stay:
- Tromso Lodge en Camping
Don’t miss:
Dog sledding, reindeer safaris, and the Tromsø Ice Domes.
2. Abisko National Park, Sweden – Europe’s Clearest Skies
Abisko, in Swedish Lapland, boasts one of the world’s most reliable aurora conditions thanks to its unique microclimate.
Why it’s special:
- Virtually no light pollution
- “Blue Hole” effect keeps skies clear
- Home to the Aurora Sky Station, offering guided chairlift rides into the mountains
Stay:
- Hotell Fjället
- Icehotel Jukkasjärvi (90 minutes away) – A frozen masterpiece that glows under the lights
Bonus tip: Combine Abisko with a visit to Kiruna’s Icehotel for a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic combo.
3. Rovaniemi, Finland – Santa Claus and the Aurora
The official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi blends Christmas magic with aurora hunting. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Why visit:
- Aurora visible nearly 200 nights per year
- Family-friendly atmosphere with cozy lodges and reindeer farms
- Easy access from Helsinki by overnight train
Where to stay:
- Arctic TreeHouse Hotel – Stunning modern cabins with huge windows
- Apukka Resort
Things to do:
- Visit Santa Claus Village
- Ride a husky sled or snowmobile under the stars
Affiliate Tip: Book a Northern Lights Tour in Rovaniemi via GetYourGuide to combine aurora spotting with authentic Lapland experiences.
4. Iceland – Fire, Ice, and the Aurora Sky
Iceland offers some of the most diverse Northern Lights landscapes in the world — from volcanoes and glaciers to black sand beaches.
Best viewing spots:
- Thingvellir National Park – 45 minutes from Reykjavík
- Vík í Mýrdal – Near Reynisfjara’s dramatic coast
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Aurora reflections over floating icebergs
Where to stay:
- Hotel Rangá (South Iceland) – Aurora wake-up calls and outdoor hot tubs
- Aurora Igloo
When to go:
September to April, with February–March offering the clearest nights.
Don’t miss:
Combine aurora chasing with the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, and glacier hiking tours.
5. Fairbanks, Alaska, USA – The American Aurora Capital
Fairbanks is one of the best places in North America to see the Northern Lights. Located just two degrees below the Arctic Circle, it offers a mix of wilderness and comfort.Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Why it’s amazing:
- Aurora visible up to 240 nights per year
- Excellent infrastructure for winter travelers
- Hot springs, snowmobiling, and Arctic wildlife nearby
Stay:
Pike’s Waterfront Lodge
Tours:
Try an Aurora Viewing Tour from Fairbanks on Aurora Viewing— many include hotel pick-up and photography help.
6. Yellowknife, Canada – The Aurora Capital of the World
Located in the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife proudly claims one of the world’s highest aurora visibility rates. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Why go:
- Clear skies more than 300 nights per year
- Flat tundra offers unobstructed horizons
- Aurora Village provides heated teepees and expert guides
Stay:
- Aurora Lodge
Extra experiences:
Snowshoeing, dog sledding, or ice fishing under the lights.
7. Svalbard, Norway – See the Lights in the Daytime
One of the few places where you can witness the “daytime aurora” during the Polar Night (November–January). Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Why it’s unique:
- The sun doesn’t rise for weeks — complete Arctic darkness
- You might see auroras at noon
- Rare wildlife: polar bears, Arctic foxes, and reindeer
Stay:
- Coal Miners’ Cabins – Cozy and authentic
Note: Tours are often combined with snowmobile or ice cave adventures.
8. Lapland Snow Village, Finland – An Icy Wonderland
Each winter, Lapland Snow Village is rebuilt entirely from snow and ice — including ice sculptures, a chapel, and rooms. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Why it’s magical:
- Sleeping inside an ice hotel under the aurora
- Themed suites with carvings and LED light art
- Only open from December to April
Stay
https://www.laplandhotels.com/en/hotels-and-destinations/yllas/lapland-hotels-snowvillage
- SnowVillage Ice Hotel – Or combine with nearby Levi Glass Igloos
Book a Lapland Snow Village Experience on getyourguide
9. Greenland – The Untamed Aurora Frontier
Far from mass tourism, Greenland offers some of the purest night skies on Earth. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Where to go:
- Kangerlussuaq – 300+ clear nights a year
- Ilulissat Icefjord – Stunning icebergs glowing under the aurora
Stay:
- Hotel Arctic – Overlooks the Icefjord
Combine aurora viewing with dog sledding or iceberg cruises.
10. Scotland – The “Mirrie Dancers” of the UK
Few realize that even the Scottish Highlands can host stunning aurora displays. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Best viewing locations:
- Shetland Islands and Orkney Islands
- Caithness and Isle of Skye
When:
Best between December and February during strong solar storms.
Stay:
- Skeabost House Hotel, Isle of Skye
- Brae Hotel, Shetland
Local name: The Northern Lights here are affectionately called the “Mirrie Dancers.”
11. Yukon, Canada – Wilderness and Wonder
The Yukon Territory offers a more off-the-grid aurora adventure. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Why visit:
- Vast wilderness and near-zero light pollution
- Excellent conditions between August and April
Stay:
- Boreale Ranch
Activities:
Aurora tours, wildlife photography, snowshoeing, and cultural visits with First Nations guides.
12. Anchorage, Alaska – Easy Access Meets Aurora Magic
If you prefer a mix of city comforts and wilderness, Anchorage offers a perfect balance. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Where to go nearby:
- Eklutna Tailrace and Flattop Mountain viewpoints
- Denali National Park (4 hours north)
Stay:
- Alyeska Resort – Ski by day, chase lights by night
- Hotel Captain Cook – Downtown luxury with mountain views
Tip: Combine Anchorage with a road trip north to Fairbanks for the best chance of clear skies.
Bonus: Southern Hemisphere Aurora
While the Northern Lights dominate, their southern counterpart — the Aurora Australis — dances over Antarctica, Tasmania, and New Zealand’s South Island. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
If you ever find yourself down under during winter, head to Lake Tekapo or Stewart Island for a chance to glimpse the southern glow.
How to Photograph the Northern Lights
Capturing the aurora is easier with the right gear:
Recommended settings:
- ISO: 800–3200
- Aperture: f/2.8 or lower
- Shutter: 5–20 seconds
- Tripod + remote shutter
Pro tip: Turn off autofocus and set to infinity. Keep extra batteries — the cold drains them fast!
What to Pack for Your Aurora Trip
Seeing the Northern Lights often means temperatures below −20°C, so pack smart: Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Thermal base layers
Insulated boots
Down jacket and windproof outer shell
Wool hat and gloves
Hand warmers
Camera gear & headlamp
You’ll thank yourself later while standing beneath the stars at midnight!
Best Aurora Tours and Excursions Best Places to See the Northern Lights
For the ultimate experience, book a guided Northern Lights Tour through trusted platforms like:
- GetYourGuide – Photography tours and reindeer safaris
- Viator – Arctic Circle adventures
- Trip.com – Package deals including flights + hotels
Some tours even include aurora forecasts, transportation, and professional photos, so you can just enjoy the show.
Top Hotels with Aurora Views
Here are a few extraordinary stays designed for watching the Northern Lights right from your bed:
Best Places to See the Northern Lights
| Hotel | Location | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort | Saariselkä, Finland | Iconic glass igloos and log chalets |
| Arctic Bath Hotel | Swedish Lapland | Floating spa and glass-roof cabins |
| Hotel Rangá | South Iceland | Outdoor hot tubs and on-site observatory |
| Chena Hot Springs Resort | Fairbanks, Alaska | Hot springs + guaranteed aurora visibility |
| Northern Lights Resort & Spa | Yukon, Canada |
Insider Tips for the Perfect Aurora Trip
- Stay at least 3–5 nights to increase your chances
- Avoid bright full moons — they wash out the lights
- Book remote accommodation away from city glow
- Use aurora alert apps to get notifications when activity spikes
- Enjoy the silence — sometimes the aurora even makes faint crackling sounds
Related Amazing Bucketlist Articles
- Lapland Snow Village – Finland’s Frozen WonderlandDiscover Finland’s incredible Snow Village, rebuilt each winter entirely from snow and ice — complete with icy hotel rooms, sculptures, and an unforgettable Northern Lights backdrop.
- Top 5 Ice Hotels in ScandinaviaExplore the most spectacular ice hotels across Sweden, Norway, and Finland — from crystal ice suites to Arctic igloos surrounded by snow-covered forests.
- Luxury Winter Lodges & Cabins Across EuropeEscape to Europe’s coziest winter retreats — from romantic mountain chalets to glass-roof cabins where you can watch the aurora from bed.
- Best Ice Hotels in North AmericaExperience the coolest getaways in Canada and Alaska — stay in stunning ice-carved hotels featuring ice bars, frozen art, and magical winter adventures.
Conclusion: Chase the Magic of the Arctic Sky
The Northern Lights are more than just a natural phenomenon — they’re a spiritual and emotional experience. Watching those dancing lights across the Arctic night sky is humbling, reminding us of our smallness in the universe and the wonder of our planet. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Whether you find yourself soaking in a hot spring in Alaska, sleeping in a glass igloo in Finland, or hiking frozen fjords in Norway, every aurora moment is unique — and unforgettable.
If you’re planning your bucket list trip in 2025, this is the year to make it happen. Book early, pack warm, and keep your eyes on the sky. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
The magic of the Aurora Borealis is waiting for you. Best Places to See the Northern Lights
