Where to See the Northern Lights: 2025 Guide

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Who hasn’t dreamed of watching the aurora borealis dance across the night sky? It’s like nature’s own light show—a mesmerizing spectacle that’s been captivating folks for ages. Seeing the aurora is like watching nature’s own fireworks display, minus the loud bangs that scare your dog. No wonder social media is bursting with jaw-dropping photos of this celestial wonder!

Don’t think you can just trip over the aurora every time you look up, though. If you want to see the Northern Lights, you’ll need to do a bit of planning. Think of it as a cosmic treasure hunt, where the prize is an unforgettable display of colors.

If you’ve been daydreaming about this cosmic spectacle, guess what? Your moment has arrived! Imagine standing in the crisp, cold air, hot cocoa in hand, as the sky lights up in a swirl of colors. This article will guide you to 12 prime locations for witnessing this breathtaking spectacle. And as a bonus, we’ll also suggest some fun daytime activities in these areas to make your trip even more unforgettable! 

Where to see the northern lights

Want to catch the northern lights? Time to pack your bags and head north—way north. We’re talking Arctic Circle territory, folks! So here are the world’s most remarkable locations for Northern Lights watching!

1. Fairbanks, Alaska

Two people in water, looking at the northern lights

Fairbanks is like the cool younger sibling of Anchorage – not quite as big, but packing plenty of charm. It’s the perfect spot for a Northern Lights adventure, thanks to its long winter nights and a plethora of tours and activities. Sure, the temperature might dip below freezing, but trust us, the chance to experience the Northern Lights is worth a few frostbitten toes.

Check out Chena Hot Springs Resort—it’s like a playground for all ages, with enough fun to keep everyone entertained! You can visit the world’s largest ice museum or even go on a dog sled tour for a new experience. For the best view of the lights, hop on the Aurora Viewing Tour—it’s like having a VIP pass to nature’s coolest show!

Forget Netflix—cozy up in a lodge, suite, or cabin, and let the Northern Lights be your nighttime binge-watch. Camping and yurt options are also available if you prefer to rough it a little.

Getting to Fairbanks is easy. You can fly from Anchorage and Seattle or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take the Alaska Railroad for a scenic train ride through a winter wonderland. From there, it’s a short bus or car trip to Chena Hot Springs.

Best time to see the northern lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks is from late August to late April, because during the summer months, the midnight sun makes it tough to spot the aurora. It’s like trying to find a snowflake in a snowstorm.

No need to pull an all-nighter like you did in college! If you’re staying in a hotel, you can request a phone call when the aurora borealis fills the night skies. Just bundle up, grab your camera, and get ready for a magical adventure in the land of Narnia.

2. Ilulissat, Greenland

Aurora Borealis behind icebergs

Ilulissat, located on the edge of Disko Bay in western Greenland, is one of the best places in the country to view the northern lights. The town’s minimal light pollution and clear skies make it an ideal destination for aurora borealis enthusiasts.

But wait, there’s more! Ilulissat isn’t just a one-trick pony. When you’re not gawking at the sky, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ilulissat Icefjord, take helicopter or boat tours, go whale watching, or try dog sledding. Many tour operators offer Northern Lights excursions, whisking you away from town lights to the best viewing spots. Or go for Greenland expeditions and cruises if you’re looking for a more adventurous experience.

If you like your adventures with a sprinkle of luxury, Hotel Arctic is the northernmost 4-star hotel on the planet. It’s so far north, Santa probably uses it as a summer home. You can stay in a regular room or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, cozy up in an aluminum “igloo” with windows in the roof. It’s like sleeping in a snow globe, minus the snow and shaking.

Hotel Arctic offers a restaurant serving up delicious traditional Greenlandic fare. There are free shuttles to and from town for you to explore outside the hotel.

Getting to Ilulissat is an adventure in itself. You’ll fly through Kangerlussuaq, a town whose name sounds more like a prehistoric creature than a layover spot. From there, it’s a direct flight to Ilulissat. The airport is just 6 kilometers from town, or 3 kilometers if you’re staying at Hotel Arctic (told you it was convenient).

Best time to see the northern lights In Ilulissat, Greenland

The best time to catch nature’s light show here is from September to April, with November being the sweet spot. The skies are darker and clearer then, giving you the best chance to see the aurora in all its glory. Just remember to check the forecast. Mother Nature can be a bit of a diva when it comes to performances.

3. Tromsø, Norway

Aurora Borealis in Norway

Tromsø, also referred to as “the Gateway to the Arctic,” is the largest city in northern Norway. It is one of the best places to see the northern lights in Europe. The best thing about Tromsø is that it has a lot to offer a tourist even when northern light activity is low.

If you’re planning a trip to Tromsø from December through March, we recommend staying the night at the 600m² Tromsø Ice Domes. This one-of-a-kind hotel is made entirely of ice and is located 95 kilometers outside of Tromsø.

The price of the overnight package includes transport, warm clothing, a guided snowshoe hike, traditional Norwegian cuisine in their beautifully sculpted restaurant, and more!

Take advantage of the fact that reindeer sledding is a fun and popular activity for visitors. You’ll hike up to their nature camp, where you’ll be treated to a three-course meal by the fire while watching the northern lights.

We recommend flying to Tromsø. There are ten flights a day from Oslo’s Gardermoen Airport to Tromsø’s Langnes Airport. First-time visitors will appreciate the airport’s proximity to the heart of the city (it’s about 5 km away).

Best time to see the northern lights In Tromsø, Norway

If you want to see the northern lights, you should travel to Tromsø in the months of December through March. During the winter months, it’s much darker, which helps with the light’s visibility.

If you’d love to visit the Tromsø Ice Domes, they’re only up and running from 10 December to 31 March. Outside of the winter season, the ice walls begin to thaw.

4. Lapland, Finland

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. This resort features unique glass igloos that allow guests to experience the Northern Lights and the starry sky from the comfort of their beds. It's located in Finnish Lapland, which is renowned for its opportunities to view the aurora borealis.

Finland’s Lapland is one of the most popular family vacation destinations to watch the northern lights. Located 250 kilometers north of the arctic circle, the Kakslauttanen Resort is a must-visit for families or those looking for a romantic getaway.

The resort offers various forms of accommodation. The most notable is their glass igloos, which offer a view of the lights from your bed. You can also enjoy the dancing northern lights while snuggling up with your significant other in their cozy log cabins, which will keep you warm from the elements outside. We recommend creating a comprehensive cold-weather packing list to help beat the cold.

The Kakslauttanen Resort offers lots of activities for different tastes in the area. For the kids, you can pay a visit to Santa at his home. Try out husky hiking, ice fishing, skiing, or even snowboarding if you’re adventurous. If you want to take it a bit easy, visiting the sauna is a fantastic Finnish experience. Remember to try out that safari tour as well.

Even though the resort is located far to the north and far from almost everything, it’s easily accessible through a 30-minute drive from Ivalo International Airport. Take a flight with Finnair from Finland’s capital, Helsinki, to get there in no time. It also has a fantastic location close to the Finnish borders between Norway and Russia.

Best time to see the northern lights In Lapland, Finland

The northern lights visit the Finnish skies about 200 nights of the year. The best time to visit is from the end of August to April when the nights become darker. So ensure you plan your visit during the autumn, winter, and spring months to increase your chances.

road leading to horizon, and northern lights

5. Svalbard, Norway

Norway has plenty of stunning areas to view the northern lights, and Svalbard is just one of those areas. Northern lights are visible in the skies above Svalbard for more than half the year. We recommend planning a trip from early September to early April.

Dog sled tours are a great way to experience the northern lights in Svalbard. You can sled out into the wilderness, where you can experience the magical light show in the company of enthusiastic dogs. A snowmobile tour into the mountains is another way to experience northern lights from a unique vantage point.

6. Yukon, Canada

Yukon is located in northwestern Canada and offers excellent opportunities for catching the northern lights in action. There are many tours available that can appeal to many different tastes. From viewing the rays of the north from a hot spring to staying in a cozy cabin, Yukon offers something for everyone. 

Yukon is rich in cultural history. Guided tours are available to take you to remote cultural locations while viewing the northern lights. You’ll learn much about the culture and traditions of indigenous Canadian people. Be sure to dress warmly. Yukon can drop to temperatures of -22°F.

7. Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye is a beautiful location in Scotland to view the Northern Lights. Its remote location and dark skies make its conditions ideal. Winter nights are longer and darker, making it the perfect setting for viewing the dancing lights in the night sky.

Finding the right view of the northern horizon is a great way to view the north’s lights. Some popular spots include Neist Point Lighthouse, Fairy Pools, and the Quiraing. 

A guided tour can also take you to the best locations during your visit to the Isle of Skye.

8. Vik, Iceland

Vik is a small town located in the southern part of Iceland. With beautiful landscapes, including black sand beaches, volcanic mountains, and glacier lagoons, it’s a gorgeous place to photograph the aurora borealis.

A popular spot is the beaches of Reynisfjara. The black sand contrasts dramatically with the dancing lights in the sky. If you’re looking for a unique way to view the northern lights, consider taking a horseback riding tour. They’ll take you into the countryside, and you can experience the Northern Lights from the back of a gentle Icelandic horse.

9.0Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Jukkasjärvi is a small village located in the far north of Sweden. The village is 200 km north of the Arctic Circle, where the northern lights are more common. One of the popular destinations in Jukkasjärvi is the Icehotel which is wholly made out of ice and snow. The hotel also offers northern lights tours, including a guide and warm clothing for comfort.

The Aurora Sky Station, located on top of Mount Nuolja, is another excellent location to view the northern lights. It’s equipped with an observatory and a restaurant with a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes and, of course, the lights of the north.

10. Saadjärv, Estonia

Saadjärv is a rural area located in southeastern Estonia. It’s situated in the forested area of Lake Saadjärv. It’s far from light pollution, making it a clear location to view the northern lights during the Estonian winter months. 

The shores and forests around Lake Saadjärv create a fantastic backdrop for the luminous northern lights. The peaceful environment makes a relaxing getaway for visitors. Saadjärv is also close to the Vooremaa nature reserve, so there’s plenty to do there.

11. Murmansk, Russia

Murmansk is one of Russia’s most popular destinations for viewing the Northern Lights. The city is above the Arctic Circle, making it an ideal location for viewing the northern lights.

Murmansk is surrounded by stunning landscapes that offer several opportunities to see the Northern Lights. One of the best places to view the northern lights is Lake Lovozero, about 150 km east of Murmansk. The lake is surrounded by mountains and provides a picturesque backdrop to add to your experience.

12. Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Those in the southern hemisphere can take advantage of the stunning southern lights, which are known as the aurora australis. Lake Tekapo is a small town located on the South Island of New Zealand. It’s a popular destination for stargazing and viewing the southern lights during the winter months of March through to September.

Lake Tekapo is easily accessible by car or bus from several major cities, including Christchurch and Queenstown. The town has several tour operators that offer guided tours for stargazing and viewing the stunning ​​green, pink, purple, and red hues of the Aurora Australis.

What causes the northern lights?

It all starts with the Sun. Our fiery star constantly releases a stream of charged particles, known as the solar wind. These particles, primarily protons and electrons, travel through space at incredible speeds. When they reach Earth, they interact with our planet’s magnetic field.

Think of the Earth’s magnetic field as a protective shield. It deflects most of the solar wind particles, but some manage to slip through. These particles collide with the gases in our atmosphere, primarily nitrogen and oxygen. As they collide, they release energy in the form of light.

The northern lights are like a cosmic mood ring—always changing and never predictable, with colors that shift based on the type of gas and the altitude of the collision.

Why do the colors change? The specific color of the light depends on the type of gas and the altitude of the collision. Nitrogen produces blue and purplish-red hues, while oxygen creates yellow, green, and red light. But either way, the result is a breathtaking display of colors that can fill the sky with vibrant patterns.

It’s like a cosmic ballet, performed by particles smaller than your average dust mite.

💡FUN FACT: Galileo Galilei is credited with naming the aurora borealis in the early 17th century. The term “aurora” comes from the Latin word for “dawn,” and “borealis” is derived from the Greek term for “north wind.” I guess “the Inquisition’s favorite light show” just didn’t have the same ring to it.

When Can You See the Northern Lights?

Best Months: The Northern Lights are most visible from late September to early April, with peak visibility typically occurring between November and February.

Optimal Viewing Conditions: The best viewing conditions include a dark and clear sky, away from city lights.

Timing: The strongest displays often occur between 9 PM and 2 AM, with the most vibrant sightings usually between 11 PM and midnight.

Seasonal Variability: While winter months offer the longest nights, the auroras can be seen at any time of year, depending on solar activity.

Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights

Plan Around the Moon: Schedule your trip close to a new moon to minimize light interference from the moon.

Check Space Weather Forecasts: Monitor space weather forecasts leading up to your trip, as solar storms can enhance aurora activity.

Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plans based on weather conditions and aurora forecasts for the best chances of viewing.

Dress Appropriately: Wear warm layers and insulated clothing, as you’ll likely be outside for extended periods in cold temperatures.

💡 PRO TIP: To make the most of your aurora-hunting adventure, consider booking a Northern Lights tour. These guides are like your personal aurora whisperers, ready to lead you to the best spots and keep you updated on when the lights are most likely to dazzle the sky.

FAQs about watching the Northern Lights

How do you photograph the Northern Lights?

To photograph the northern lights, you need a camera with a manual mode. You must be able to manually control the f-stop, the shutter speed, and the ISO. A full-frame camera like the Sony A7R Mark IV will take pictures with a lot less noise and much better quality than a crop sensor camera. That’s what we use.

How long do Northern Lights last?

The Northern Lights can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. They may only appear for a few minutes, fade, then reappear a while later. A good display may last for 15-30 minutes, although it can sometimes extend for a couple of hours or more.

Are the Northern Lights dangerous?

The Northern Lights are not harmful to humans or infrastructure under normal circumstances. However, during intense solar storms, the particles that cause the Northern Lights can interfere with power grids, communication systems, and satellites.

What should I wear to see the Northern Lights?

When viewing the Northern Lights, wear warm layers, a hat, gloves, and sturdy boots. Avoid cotton and tight-fitting clothing. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics instead. Bring hand warmers, foot warmers, and a warm blanket or sleeping bag for extended viewing sessions.

What else can I do while waiting to see the Northern Lights?

While waiting for the Northern Lights, you can go on guided tours, take photographs, stargaze, try winter sports, or relax in a Finnish sauna or hot spring.

Your Northern Lights Adventure Awaits!

Congratulations! You’re now equipped with everything you need to chase the magical Northern Lights! Just a heads up: the aurora usually throws its dazzling party between 9 PM and 2 AM, so plan your daytime adventures accordingly—maybe some snowshoeing or hot cocoa sipping!

Whether you’re trekking through the snowy landscapes of Alaska, soaking in the beauty of Iceland, or cozying up in Finland, it’ll be an adventure that will leave you in awe. So grab your warmest gear, charge that camera, and prepare for some Instagram-worthy moments!

We want to hear all about your Northern Lights escapades! Share your stories or drop any questions in the comments below. And hey, if you’re looking for more travel tips and fun destination guides, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter!

Happy aurora hunting, and may the lights dance for you!

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to explore new places.

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