Where Are the World's Best Places to See the Northern Lights?

best places in the world to see northern lights

Where Are the World's Best Places to See the Northern Lights?

Have you ever dreamed of seeing the spectacular show of colors that is the Northern Lights? If so, you're in luck. Despite their mystique, the Northern Lights are actually pretty easy to find and witness - as long as you know where to look. Depending on where you live, you may have to do some travelling to get the best view of these magical lights. But if you've ever wanted to experience the awe of seeing an Aurora Borealis dance across the night sky, this article will tell you exactly where to go!

We'll take a look at some of the world's best places to see the Northern Lights - from Alaska and Canada to Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland. You'll get tips on when's the best time for your trip, what kind of equipment you need and even if it is possible to see them in cities (hint: it's not ideal!). So grab your coat and let's take a journey into discovering one of nature's most beautiful displays!

How to Increase Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights?

Did you know that over 80% of tourists miss the Northern Lights due to the lack of Aurora knowledge? Don't let that be you! The right time and the right place are the key. Northern Lights Online Course and Aurora mobile app designed for beginners will significantly increase your chances.

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Designed For Beginners

Mobile App

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Overview of the Northern Lights

Have you ever seen a night sky so vibrant that it takes your breath away? The Northern Lights—also known as the Aurora Borealis—are one of Earth’s most incredible natural spectacles, and they can be experienced around the Arctic Circle. The shimmering sheets of light dance across the night sky, creating surreal shapes and colors.

To find the perfect place for a Northern Lights viewing experience, there are several factors to consider. The Northern Lights zone stretches from Alaska in North America, to Canada and Greenland in the west, then over to Scandinavia in the east. Norway, Sweden, and Finland are great destinations for many reasons (including their amazing ski resorts!), but also because of their favourable locations for Northern Lights watching. Iceland is often overlooked but is also a great destination—it’s conveniently located near the Arctic Circle and has far less light pollution than other countries.

The World's Best Places to See the Northern Lights

When it comes to experiencing the wonder of the Northern Lights, there are some tried and true spots in the world that you absolutely can't miss. If you're itching to see breathtaking Auroras, Alaska, Canada, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland are some of the world's best places to visit.

If you can make your way as close as possible to the Arctic Circle—you'll generally have a higher chance of seeing them. However, even if you aren’t able to get out of city limits for your Northern Lights experience, you may still be able to spot them—just keep an eye out for those faint hues in the night sky. Although it won't be quite as spectacular in cities due to light pollution from artificial lights which significantly decreases the visibility of the Northern Lights but it's still worth a shot!

Tips for Increased Visibility and Magnificant Views

If you’re planning a trip to view the Northern Lights, there are a few things to consider. To ensure a better chance of seeing them, try to find a spot away from bright lights and dense clouds.

Dark Spot

A great spot for viewing the Northern Lights should be far away from cities and bright lights, as light pollution dims the visibility of these lights in the sky. The further north you are and at the same time further away from light pollution the higher your chances of experiencing the night of a lifetime.

where is the best place to see the northern lights

Clear Spot

The other factor to consider is cloudy or clear skies. Cloudy nights won’t offer many opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, but if it is clear out you have a better chance of viewing them in their full potential glory. To stay updated on cloud coverage at your destination check out local weather reports before your trip.

High Spot

Lastly, higher locations are preferred when it comes to viewing natural phenomena like Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). If you can find a high spot like an overlook or elevated hillside—go for it! You’ll have an unobstructed view of the night sky and could maximize your chances of capturing that perfect photo or simply taking in this amazing natural phenomenon with your own eyes!

Can You See the Northern Lights in a City?

The Northern Lights are possibly the most incredible natural phenomenon on the planet, and many people plan trips to see them. But you may be asking—can you even see the Northern Lights in cities?

Well, here's the thing—cities produce light pollution, and that does decrease the visibility of the northern lights. However, you can still catch a glimpse of them if you're lucky. It won't be as breathtaking as seeing them away from the city and artificial lights, but there's still a chance!

To heighten your chances of seeing a spectacular light show, stick to places with dark sky levels. The higher the level of darkness in an area—or better yet, head to darker places that don't have many artificial lights like rural parts of Scandinavia or Iceland—the better your chance of spotting something special!

A Closer Look: Alaska, Canada, Iceland, Norway, Sweden & Finland

Dreaming of seeing the Northern lights? If you're willing to travel, several countries across the Arctic Circle provide a great opportunity for Northern Lights seekers. Let's take a closer look at Alaska, Canada, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland.

Alaska

Alaska is known for its breathtaking Aurora displays and provides ample opportunity to see this natural light show. Anchorage lies just below the Arctic Circle and offers an easily accessible view of the Northern Lights even better to go away from the city where will be lower light pollution to be able to enjoy those lights in their full glory.

Canada

Canada is a top destination for Aurora Borealis viewing due to its close proximity to Alaska and large size which makes it unique in terms of diverse landscapes and opportunities for exploration. The northwest territories are some of the darkest areas in Canada with little light pollution and provide an ideal location for spending a night under the stars.

Iceland

Iceland is one of Europe’s prime Aurora-viewing destinations. The country lies under the Auroral Oval which means you can catch awesome views on clear nights from late September through mid-April. Plus, Iceland’s landscapes create perfect spots for watching these beautiful lights; it's easy to find secluded places where there is no light pollution that prevent your view from being obstructed by any city lights.

Norway & Sweden

Both Norway and Sweden are prime locations for catching breathtaking views of the Northern Lights. Famous places like Abisko National Park in Sweden offer great viewing opportunities due to clear skies over frozen lakes that create mirror images of the colorful Auroras dancing in the sky above them. Plus, there are plenty of cabins tucked away into snowy fields.

Finland

Finland is another top destination for Aurora Borealis seekers. Beyond the beauty of its landscapes, Finland boasts plenty of dark night skies - making it perfect for stargazers looking to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Higher chances are far north near Rovaniemi—which happens to be the official home of Santa Claus—you have ample opportunity to witness this magical light display.

The best viewing time is usually during the months of September and March (but the entire season lasts from mid-September to mid-April) when the skies are typically much clearer than at other times of the year. Plus, if you’re looking for an extra special experience, some companies offer lodging in glass igloos—allowing you the perfect opportunity to lay back and get an unrivalled view of the Northern Lights.

Other Tips for Capturing and Viewing the Northern Lights

If you're lucky enough to be at one of the prime spots on the planet to witness the spectacular Aurora Borealis, it's important that you make sure to capture it in the best possible way. Here are some tips for capturing and viewing the Northern Lights:

Check the Weather

While the weather can ruin plans, in order to make sure that you seize a special chance to view and photograph the Northern Lights, it's important to check for cloud cover ahead of time. You don't want any surprises when you're out in a remote location!

best places on earth to see the northern lights

Invest in Your Equipment

The better your camera equipment is, the better your chances of getting an incredible shot for your scrapbook. In addition, make sure you have both a wide-angle lens as well as a telephoto lens so that you can take advantage of different shooting options. And don't forget extra batteries so you don't miss out!

Choose Your Location Carefully

If you're outside of a city, make sure that there's no light pollution nearby by checking beforehand. If possible, try to find an elevated location with a view of the Northern Lights spread across the horizon instead of just one spot in the sky.

By following these tips and visiting any one (or more) of the stunning places throughout Alaska, Canada, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, or Finland—you increase your chances of having a truly magical experience full of breathtaking sights and senses like never before!

where are the best places to see the northern lights

FAQ: The most common questions about the Northern Lights

You might have a lot of questions about the Northern Lights: What’s the best time of year to see them? Should you look for it in the city, or should you travel to rural areas?

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Northern Lights.

What's the best time of year to see them?

The peak season for seeing the northern lights typically starts around mid-September and ends around mid-April. The days when you can most likely see them are between October and late March. The darker, the better it is for viewing.

Is it possible to see them in cities?

Though cities produce light pollution, it is possible to still catch glimpses of the Northern Lights in cities but the show won't be the same as further away. For a truly breathtaking view, however, head out away from city lights to rural areas—the lack of artificial light will more fully reveal their beauty and splendour.

How often can I expect to see them?

It depends on where you decide to view them from—for example, Alaska has more viewing opportunities than Canada. However, if you do decide to visit Iceland, Norway, Sweden or Finland, your chances of catching a glimpse increase dramatically as these countries offer some of the best views in the world. In general, the Northern Lights are visible almost every night but in this case, we are not considering clouds. If the area where you are chasing the Northern Lights will be cloudy for 10 days in a row then you will not get to see them.

Northern Lights Online Tools: Chasing Aurora Like a Pro

The most useful Northern Lights online tools for a successful Aurora hunt. Are you about to hunt the Northern Lights on your own? Then you will find these resources helpful. If you are trying to see Aurora for the first time we recommend signing up for the Northern Lights Online Course where is explained step-by-step all you need to know to see the Northern Lights in an easy way.

Northern Lights essential online tools designed for beginners to help you see Aurora like the handy Aurora Mobile App and Northern Lights Online Course will help you to understand how Aurora works and to monitor real-time activity.
The Northern Lights Forecast for 3 days and long-term Aurora forecast for up to 27 days ahead can be found here: Geophysical Institute Forecast, NOAA Aurora Forecast, Spaceweatherlive Forecast or in the Northern Lights App.
Find the best Aurora spots with the light pollution map and cloud cover prediction.
Northern Lights activity in real-time: Real-time Aurora activity (worldwide magnetometers), Solar Wind activity, Sun's activity, Aurora live Boreal webcams list or Aurora App.
Additional resources to know when it will be dark enough Darkness graph & Map and how much the moon will illuminate the sky Moon Phase + Moonrise & Moonset.
If you decide to go with professional Aurora hunters here you can find the top-rated Aurora Tours.

Conclusion

Whether you go to Alaska, Canada, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, or Finland, you can be sure of a stunning and unforgettable experience. All of these places offer the chance of seeing the beautiful Northern Lights and admiring the night sky. Even if you're in a city and surrounded by light pollution, you can still get a glimpse of the magical Northern lights, though it may not be as breathtaking as if you were in a secluded and naturally dark location. No matter the location, you can bet it will be a night to remember.

Learn more about the Northern Lights so you don't miss the show!

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Ultimate Northern Lights Course

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Learn all you need to know to see the Northern Lights. The full package online course. This course includes Basic, Intermediate and Advanced knowledge about the Northern Lights. Great for Beginners. Includes Certificate.

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Aurora Myths & Legends (Ultimate Collection)

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Aurora Myths & Legends (Ultimate Collection)

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Learn about the Top 19 Aurora Myths and Legends. But that's not all. Have you ever thought about how did it happen that people started to believe in these Myths and Legends? What had happened that night? 19 of Aurora Myths and Legends were turned into tales and are right here for you in this collection.

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