Here’s an article that will give you insight into the best places to see the Aurora Borealis.
It is hard to find many natural wonders that are as magical as the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. This breathtaking phenomenon paints the night sky with waves of green, purple, and pink light, caused by solar particles colliding with Earth’s magnetic field. If witnessing this celestial dance is on your travel bucket list, you’re not alone—thousands of people chase the lights every year.
But where exactly should you go to experience this spectacle? And when is the best time to go to the Northern Lights? While the auroras can occasionally be seen in northern parts of the U.S. and Canada, your best bet is to head far north, to places within or near the Arctic Circle.
Whether you typed: ‘northern lights best place to see’, the cheapest place to see aurora borealis, or simply a good place to see aurora borealis with minimal light pollution, this guide covers it all. Below you will find some of the top northern lights destinations with descriptions to help you plan your perfect aurora adventure.
Best Places to See the Aurora Borealis
1. Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø is often ranked as the best place for Northern Lights due to its location in the heart of the auroral oval. This vibrant city in the northern part of Norway offers excellent access to aurora hotspots while still providing comfy hotels, good food, and some cultural events. The lights are visible from late September to early April. Moreover, you can find aurora safaris offered by the city. For those looking for a blend of adventure and amenities, Tromsø is arguably the best location to view the Northern Lights in Scandinavia.
2. Abisko, Sweden
Scientifically one of the best. Home to the famous Abisko National Park and the Aurora Sky Station, this remote area in Swedish Lapland holds some of the best northern lights viewing spots on Earth. Thanks to its microclimate and low light pollution, Abisko has clearer nights than most aurora destinations. It’s often considered the best place in the world to see aurora borealis reliably. Peak visibility is from November to March.
3. Reykjavik & Beyond, Iceland
Iceland is a good place to see Aurora Borealis, especially if you’re looking for variety of natural possibilities. Geysers, glaciers, and waterfalls by day, and northern lights by night. While Reykjavik itself has light pollution, just a short drive away, you’ll find great dark-sky locations like Thingvellir National Park. Iceland is also among the cheapest places to see aurora borealis, with frequent flight deals from North America and Europe.
4. Yellowknife, Canada
If you’re looking at spots in North America, Yellowknife in Canada’s Northwest Territories is an amazing option. It lies directly under the auroral oval and has some of the highest aurora activity levels in the world. Cold, dry winters make for extremely clear skies. With dedicated lodges and tour offices, Yellowknife offers the best northern lights viewing in Canada, especially from mid-November to early April.
5. Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks is the most accessible aurora viewing spot in the United States. Located just 150 miles south of the Arctic Circle, it offers multiple northern lights destinations within easy reach, such as Chena Hot Springs. It’s one of the best places for Northern Lights without needing a passport for U.S. travelers. Peak northern lights times are from late August to early April.
6. Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi, the official home of Santa Claus, offers a mixture of winter wonderland charm and excellent aurora visibility. Located in Finnish Lapland, it’s a good place to see aurora borealis while also enjoying other activities – think husky rides, snowmobile safaris, and igloo hotels. From late September to March, it provides some of the best northern lights viewing opportunities in Finland.
Summary
The best time to go to the Northern Lights typically lies between September and April, when the nights are long and the skies are dark. While aurora activity depends on solar conditions, choosing the right destination increases your chances significantly.
If you’re after the best place in the world to see aurora borealis, Abisko in Sweden or Tromsø in Norway are hard to beat. If you’re looking for the cheapest place to see aurora borealis with great natural surroundings, Iceland offers incredible value. Want to be in North America? Visit Yellowknife or Fairbanks for top-viewing spots.
Whether you’re chasing the aurora from a traditional igloo in Finland, a geothermal pool in Iceland, or a snowy lodge in Canada, these northern lights destinations will leave you awe-inspired. So pack your winter gear, bring your camera, and get ready for one of nature’s most dazzling displays.
I hope you enjoyed our article! We recommend you to check our selection of the Best Places to Visit in November, December and February!
Safe trips!