The Top 15 Places in the World to See the Northern Lights

The experience of witnessing the Northern Lights is a must-have in everyone’s life. For many, it is a cherished dream to feel the chill in the air brushing against their cheeks and watch the ethereal hues performing a ballet in the dark, starry sky. According to scientists, this mystical spectacle is the result of the collision between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the Earth’s atmosphere. The Northern Lights are known as Aurora Borealis in the north and Aurora Australis in the south. There are 15 places in the world where you can witness this awe-inspiring display – Norway has many such locations, Iceland boasts of some stunning ones, and even as far as Russia – all captured through the lenses of Instagram travelers!

The Top 15 Places in the World to See the Northern Lights

1. Tromso City, Norway

There are numerous locations in Norway where you can see the Northern Lights. It’s nothing out of the ordinary for the locals. Tromso is a lively and appealing city that has the highest likelihood of witnessing the lights thanks to the Northern Lights Oval. If you want to go dog-sledding or whale viewing expedition, Tromso city is the location.

2. Lofoten Islands, Norway

Feel peace and tranquility while you watch the Northern Lights in the Lofoten Islands. It has colourful fishing villages, local handicrafts and a rich history that dates back to the Vikings. The untamed beauty of the island is equally as lovely in winter as the rest of the year, especially when the northern lights show out at night. The coastal parts of Lofoten are often the ideal settings for shooting the Northern Lights. Take a RIB boat safari for an unforgettable experience. Are you wondering if Norway is a suitable destination to visit? Here are some breathtaking images of Norway at its best!

3. Narvik, Norway

It is the ultimate vacation spot! In Narvik, take a cable car to the top of the mountain to see the Northern Lights for a real and frigid experience. You can also take a picturesque train ride to the Swedish border on the Ofotbanen line. You may see bears, wolves, wolverines, lynx, moose, reindeer, musk oxen, and Arctic foxes at the Polar Park Wildlife Centre. In 2016, a “wolf lodge” hut was built to sleep within one of the wolf enclosures. That would be a terrifying but thrilling experience!

4. Lyngenfjord, Norway

In the arid Lyngenfjord region you can experience the Aurora Borealis within its stunning sceneries. Their natural environment is untouched, with dense biodiversity all around them. You may go Northern Lights hunting with a renowned photographer while resting in a glass-ceiling Crystal Lavvo constructed just for stargazing at night. The mountains are also ideal for downhill skiing! Here are a few destinations for a road trip.

5. North Cape, Norway

This is known as Europe’s northernmost point. For a spectacular scenery of natural beauty visit North Cape and try snowmobiling while looking out for the Northern Lights. This heavenly encounter will be like salve to your soul. While ice fishing or driving an ATV, you can explore the ruggard beauty of the landscapes. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

6. Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The Aurora Sky Station and the Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden collaborate to provide package arrangements for viewing the Northern Lights in Abisko and visiting the lovely Ice Hotel. The greatest time to watch the aurora is between September and March, away from city lights and in the wilderness, because the aurora prefers clear skies. We guarantee that being sucked into its never-ending hole will be a magnificent and life-changing event.

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

Have you ever considered sleeping inside a transparent bubble while waiting for the Northern Lights to appear? Yes, this is possible in Reykjavik. You may also visit the hot geyser in Strokkur where it sprouts hot spring every 5 minutes and soak or float in the Secret Lagoon in Fludir. The greatest time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from September to mid-April, when the evenings are completely black. Here are some more reasons why you should go to Iceland.

8. Yukon, Canada

Whitehorse, Yukon, is one such area in Canada that has the honor of displaying the Northern Lights due to its natural beauty. Watch the Northern Lights burst into thousands of colors, providing a visual feast of contrasts, hues, and tones. A warm heated cabin, a wall tent, or a seat by the campfire? Which option do you prefer?

9. Kakslauttanen, Finland

From the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Finland, one can observe natural phenomena. The bright green color will light up the sky through the glass roof of your igloo, or you can pursue the colors as they unfold on horseback or horse propelled carriages. Isn’t that the most thrilling adventure? Check out the ideal Finland itinerary here.

10. Ivalo, Finland

This bursting chorus of bright hues may also be seen from Ivalo, where safaris and other outdoor winter sports are available. If you want to find the best place to see the Northern Lights, hire an Aurora Hunter. Trekking, ice fishing, and snowmobiling are also options.

11. Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Kangerlussuaq, meaning ‘Big Fjord’ in Greenlandic serves as the major gateway to the island. You may experience the multi-coloured light show at Kangerlussuaq too. Want to see the Aurora Borealis and the wilderness? Kangerlussuaq is the spot for you! It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including musk oxen, caribou, and gyrfalcons, which roam the Arctic countryside on a regular basis.

12. Severodvinsk, Russia

The northern lights are Russia’s way of providing an extra bonus to the winter adventures. Severodvinsk is known for having some of Russia’s brightest lights, with red and green sparkles visible from within the city. During the winter months, Severodvinsk, Russia’s science city, offers guided tours to observe the northern lights.

13. Kola peninsula, Russia

Every winter, the Northern Lights show over Lake Lovozero in the Kola Peninsula. Russia being the largest country below the north pole, it has various “spots” for observing the northern lights. Northern Lights can be observed up to 200 times per year on the Kola Peninsula’s north.

14. Fairbanks, Alaska

When the nights turn cooler and longer, the aurora begins its light show. But in Alaska, you don’t have to worry about finding the best position to see the lights because they can be viewed all around the state, particularly in Fairbanks.

15. Malin Head, Ireland

There is no other light show like it in the world. Mother Nature’s sky display is unrivaled by any modern shimmering screens, zapping lasers, or whirling disco balls. Malin Head is known as Ireland’s most northerly point, where the northern lights are more likely to be seen. After your adventure, make sure to drink an Irish coffee.