The best places to see the Northern Lights: 13 fantastical destinations

Witnessing the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis belongs on every traveller’s bucket list. But determining the best places to see the Northern Lights is a complex matter – actually encountering the majestic and alien-ish green and purple glow of the night sky is not only about location, but also timing (December to March is ideal in many instances; August through April in other parts), positioning (typically from latitudes 65 to 72 degrees North), and plain ol’ luck (a clear, dark, and cloud-free sky).

The awe-inspiring sight – which occurs when electrically charged solar particles interact with gasses in the earth’s atmosphere – is best enjoyed in rural areas where little light pollution allows aurora to shine its brightest. Traditionally, aurora hunters head to high-latitude destinations above the Arctic Circle in places like Finland, Sweden, Norway, Canada, Iceland, Greenland, and Alaska along a ring known as the Aurora Oval. While a light show is never guaranteed, this area close to the Earth’s northern pole boasts the highest probability of catching aurora activity.

There’s never been a better time to view this extraordinary display. Activity is on the upswing, with scientists (including NASA) predicting that the northern lights will happen more frequently and intensely throughout 2025. That not only means travellers’ favourite aurora hotspots may glow more than ever, but less expected locations – such as Scotland and Michigan – are making the aurora map. Try to go with Indigenous guides, from communities who have long had ties to this sight – they can make your northern lights viewing experience all the more special, even when the meteorological magic doesn’t happen.

What month is best to see the Northern Lights?

It’s possible to see the Northern Lights between August and April. However, visit during darker months for higher chances, between late September and early March.

The best places to see the Northern Lights

Bláskógabyggð, Iceland

Almost every picture we see of Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes makes us stop in our tracks – especially those with that famous glow against the winter night sky. While many spots along this country’s coastal ring road lend themselves to northern lights-watching, the flat terrain of Thingvellir National Park in southwestern Iceland and its proximity to Reykjavík (which is just 25 miles southwest) make it one of the best – and most easily accessible – spots for getting those prize-worthy, slow shutter speed shots of the Northern Lights.

Where to stay: Bláskógabyggð’s closeness to the creative buzz of Iceland’s capital makes it a favourite destination among Northern Lights enthusiasts. Escape the chill at The Reykjavik Edition, undoubtedly the city’s sleekest address, home to an exceptional seafood restaurant, rooftop bar with ocean views and an opulent spa for soothing post-hike muscles.

Svalbard, Norway

Northern Norway undoubtedly ranks as one of the best places to see the aurora – but Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago between the mainland and the North Pole, is the only inhabited northern lights destination in the world where you can witness the lights dancing at any time of day. To experience the phenomenon while you’re having breakfast or lunch, head to Svalbard during Polar Night – the country’s longest dark season – which lasts around two and a half months between November and January. With so many hours spent in darkness, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for aurora chasing. Embark on a Northern Lights safari by dog sled, snowcat, or snowmobile, or learn how to capture the aurora in all its brilliance during a hands-on photography workshop.