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10 Best Places to Witness the Aurora Borealis Around the World

 

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural wonders. This ethereal light show, caused by the collision of solar particles with Earth’s atmosphere, paints the sky with vibrant shades of green, purple, and pink, creating an experience that feels almost otherworldly. For travelers, witnessing the aurora borealis is often a bucket-list item, and while it requires venturing to high-latitude locations, the reward is unforgettable.

Here’s a roundup of the top 10 places around the world where you can catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

1. Tromsø, Norway

Nicknamed the "Gateway to the Arctic," Tromsø is one of the best places to see the aurora borealis. Situated well within the Arctic Circle, Tromsø experiences long, dark winters perfect for aurora viewing. The city itself has fantastic spots, but you can also take tours that venture farther into the wild for more vivid displays.



Best Time to Visit: September to April
Pro Tip: Try a nighttime fjord cruise for a unique vantage point and minimal light pollution.

2. Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

Fairbanks lies under the "Auroral Oval," a zone of maximum aurora activity. Thanks to its positioning and clear, cold winter nights, Fairbanks offers some of the best aurora borealis sightings in North America. The nearby Chena Hot Springs provide a comfortable setting for observing the lights from a warm pool.


Best Time to Visit: Late August to April

Pro Tip: Check out the University of Alaska’s Geophysical Institute aurora forecast for the latest updates.

3. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Yellowknife is known as the "Aurora Capital of North America." Its isolated location ensures minimal light pollution, and the cold, dry climate increases the likelihood of clear skies. The city also offers various indigenous cultural tours that add a rich, local context to your experience.


Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to early April
Pro Tip: Stay at an aurora village with glass-roofed igloos for a cozy, uninterrupted view.

4. Reykjavik, Iceland

With its beautiful landscapes of glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs, Iceland offers a stunning backdrop for aurora sightings. Reykjavik, the country’s capital, provides plenty of convenient aurora viewing spots, though you’ll get the best experience by venturing away from the city lights. The Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a popular viewing location nearby.

Best Time to Visit: September to March
Pro Tip: Combine your trip with visits to Iceland's natural wonders like the Blue Lagoon for a full Nordic adventure.


5. Abisko, Sweden

Abisko National Park, located in Swedish Lapland, is one of the most reliable places to see the Northern Lights. The area has a unique microclimate that creates consistently clear skies, known as the "Blue Hole of Abisko." The STF Aurora Sky Station is an ideal viewing platform with panoramic views and cozy blankets.

Best Time to Visit: December to March
Pro Tip: Take the chairlift to the Aurora Sky Station for a secluded view far from any light pollution.

6. Finnish Lapland, Finland

Finnish Lapland offers a wilderness setting with endless opportunities for winter sports, reindeer encounters, and cultural experiences with the indigenous Sámi people. The small town of Rovaniemi, known as Santa Claus’s official hometown, is a popular starting point. Stay in glass igloos in Kakslauttanen or Levi for a front-row seat to the Northern Lights right from your bed.

Best Time to Visit: Late August to April
Pro Tip: Join a snowmobile or dog sledding tour for an exhilarating night under the auroras.

7. Murmansk, Russia

Murmansk, the largest city north of the Arctic Circle, offers excellent conditions for seeing the aurora borealis due to its long winter nights and proximity to the North Pole. The nearby Khibiny Mountains offer a beautiful wilderness setting for a more remote viewing experience.

Best Time to Visit: September to April
Pro Tip: Dress warmly! Murmansk winters can be extremely cold, but the Northern Lights views are well worth it.

8. Shetland Islands, Scotland

While not as far north as other locations on this list, the Shetland Islands in Scotland offer the best chance to see the "Mirrie Dancers," as locals call the Northern Lights. Their remote position and proximity to the Arctic Circle make them a surprising but excellent spot to see the aurora in the UK.



Best Time to Visit: November to February
Pro Tip: For a chance to catch the lights, head to the north coast of Shetland away from artificial lights.


9. Greenland

Greenland's vast, sparsely populated landscape provides a pristine setting for watching the Northern Lights. The town of Kangerlussuaq is a popular choice due to its long aurora season and relatively mild winter weather. The Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is another unique viewing location.

Best Time to Visit: September to April
Pro Tip: Stay at a wilderness lodge to immerse yourself in Greenland’s stark, breathtaking beauty while aurora-hunting.

10. Denali National Park, Alaska, USA

In addition to Fairbanks, Denali National Park offers some of Alaska’s best aurora views. The park is home to Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America, creating a majestic backdrop for the Northern Lights. While wintertime offers the best chance to see the lights, keep in mind that many areas may be closed, so plan your trip carefully.

Best Time to Visit: Late August to April
Pro Tip: Book a winter camping trip in the park for an adventurous, close-to-nature experience.

Tips for Aurora Viewing

  • Plan for Multiple Nights: Aurora visibility can be unpredictable, so plan to stay several nights in one location for the best chance.
  • Check Forecasts: Many websites and apps provide aurora forecasts, which can help you plan your viewing nights.
  • Stay Warm and Patient: Northern Lights may not show up immediately. Bring warm layers, and be prepared to wait!
  • Avoid Light Pollution: The farther you are from artificial lights, the more vivid the display will appear.

Seeing the Northern Lights is a transformative experience that leaves travelers with memories they’ll cherish for a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for a rugged outdoor adventure or a cozy stay in an aurora-viewing lodge, each of these destinations promises a unique way to witness nature’s most captivating light show.


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