Have you heard? Your chances of catching the mesmerizing Northern Lights are set to be better than ever, thanks to an increase in solar activity over the past year.
This celestial light show, known for its elusive nature, often teases hopeful travelers. You could trek to the ends of the earth, spend big on tours, and still end up with cloudy skies or a no-show from the auroras themselves. No Northern Lights tour can promise you’ll see the magic firsthand—it’s all down to luck.
But the game has changed. Since last winter, the Northern Lights have been putting on a show like never before, even making rare appearances as far south as Turkey. This isn’t just a stroke of luck—it’s science. In early 2024, researchers revealed that for the next four to five years, we’ll be in the midst of a solar peak, dramatically increasing the chances of witnessing this breathtaking phenomenon. So, if seeing the Northern Lights has been on your bucket list, now’s the time to start planning. Here’s why…
While the Northern Lights may only be visible in the night sky, they owe their existence to the sun. When particles from solar flares are carried into our atmosphere by solar winds and collide with nitrogen gas, the Northern Lights are born. The reason for their heightened visibility over the past year is tied to an extraordinary spike in solar activity. This rare event, known as a solar maximum, has made these vibrant light displays more frequent and more brilliant, offering more opportunities than ever to witness the sky’s magical performance.
And here’s the good news: scientists predict this increased solar activity—and thus the prime viewing conditions for the Northern Lights—will last until 2028. So, if experiencing this dazzling natural wonder is on your travel wishlist, now’s the time to make it happen. Let’s explore the most unique spots where you’re most likely to catch the Northern Lights in all their glory.
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Abisko Aurora Sky Station, Sweden
Known as one of the best spots on the planet to witness the Northern Lights, Abisko Aurora Sky Station has earned numerous accolades for offering unparalleled views of this celestial wonder. Nestled in Sweden’s Lapland region, within the Arctic Circle and near the northern city of Kiruna, this station sits right beneath the Northern Lights’ oval, making it an ideal location for viewing the auroras. In fact, some claim there’s a near 100 percent chance of seeing the lights here.
Located within Abisko National Park, the station was discovered by a Japanese Northern Lights enthusiast in 2002, leading to the establishment of the observation station. Since then, it has attracted tourists from around the globe, all eager to catch a glimpse of the dancing lights. To get there, you can fly from Stockholm to Kiruna and then arrange for a chauffeured ride to the station. For those who prefer to enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of home, the station even offers 24-hour live streaming, allowing you to watch the auroras online.
Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Just 17 kilometers from Kiruna, Jukkasjärvi stands out for its extraordinary ice hotel, a truly unique feature of this small village. The Ice Hotel consists of two sections: Ice Hotel 365, a permanent structure open year-round, and the iconic ice-only section, which melts away in the summer and is meticulously rebuilt each winter. This artistic marvel isn’t about luxury comfort—guests sleep on ice beds draped with reindeer skins and special sleeping bags, with warm facilities for bathrooms located in another part of the hotel.
The experience, however, is what draws people here. Each year, starting in November, over 500 artists arrive to recreate the hotel from scratch as the Torne River freezes. The process takes six weeks to complete, resulting in an unforgettable, 60-square-meter igloo where guests can step outside and immediately view the Northern Lights. It’s a bucket-list destination for those seeking a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Jökulsárlón, Iceland
Situated in southwest Iceland, Jökulsárlón is a stunning glacial lagoon surrounded by a national park. This breathtaking spot has served as the backdrop for many Hollywood films, with its icy landscape offering an otherworldly experience when the Northern Lights light up the sky, reflecting off the frozen waters. While you can’t stay in Jökulsárlón, specialized Northern Lights tours are organized for visitors, providing a chance to witness this magical display. Given the area’s remote nature and challenging terrain, it’s highly recommended to join a tour guided by experienced professionals.
Grótta Lighthouse, Iceland
Imagine watching the Northern Lights with a picturesque lighthouse standing at the heart of the scene. Grótta Lighthouse, located just a 10-minute drive from Reykjavik, is one of Iceland’s top spots for aurora viewing. It offers a quick escape from the city lights, and on a clear night, you can simply hop in the car and head to this enchanting location.
Situated at the tip of a peninsula that juts into the Atlantic Ocean, the best time to witness the Northern Lights here is between 10:00 PM and 3:00 AM, from August to April. The sight of the auroras dancing above the lighthouse is an unforgettable spectacle for all who visit.
Blue Lagoon, Iceland
One of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks, the Blue Lagoon is a natural thermal spa that feels like a dream. Its milky blue waters, surrounded by snowy landscapes, offer a surreal experience for visitors. With water temperatures between 37–39°C, the Blue Lagoon invites you to enjoy an open-air swim, even in freezing polar temperatures. Located in the west of Iceland, it’s just a 45-minute drive or bus ride from Reykjavik. What makes it even more special? The opportunity to soak in the warm waters while watching the Northern Lights swirl overhead on a crisp, icy night. It’s a must-visit for anyone traveling to Iceland.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Just six kilometers south of the Arctic Circle in Finland’s Lapland region, Rovaniemi looks like it was plucked straight from a Christmas postcard. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, this charming city immerses you in the holiday spirit, complete with snow, reindeer, and the magic of the Northern Lights.
For those wanting an uninterrupted view of the auroras, Ounasvaara Hill is considered the best spot in the area. Rovaniemi offers a true Lapland experience, where the enchanting lights and festive atmosphere make for a storybook setting.
Utsjoki, Finland
For a wilder, more remote experience of the Northern Lights, Utsjoki is the place to go. Situated at the northernmost point of Finland near the Norwegian border, this small town is surrounded by untouched forests and rivers, making it an ideal spot to take in the auroras. The nearby Kevo Wildlife Sanctuary offers a crystal-clear view of the Northern Lights, far from any city lights. In addition to its natural beauty, Utsjoki is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, and short sled tours to nearby Sami villages add to its unique charm.
Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø stands as one of Norway’s top destinations for witnessing the Northern Lights, with the best viewing opportunities from September through April. While no sighting is ever guaranteed, Tromsø’s location just beneath the Northern Lights’ oval makes it a prime spot for catching the sky’s magical display.
This vibrant city offers a wide range of tours and activities tailored to aurora chasers, along with a lively nightlife scene featuring cozy pubs and bars. With a variety of hotels to choose from, Tromsø is a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for travelers eager to experience the lights.
Svalbard Archipelago, Norway
For those seeking a more secluded aurora experience, the Svalbard Archipelago in the Arctic Sea offers a remote escape far from city crowds. Located about 1,000 kilometers from the North Pole, Svalbard may be challenging and costly to reach, but it’s a dream destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts.
With its distance from city lights, Svalbard provides some of the clearest skies for watching the auroras dance. The archipelago has three main places to stay: Longyearbyen, which offers several hotel options, and the more remote Isfjord Radio and Svea, which function as research outposts with limited accommodations. For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, Svalbard is the place to be.
Bonus: Northern Lights at Sea
For a unique and luxurious way to experience the Northern Lights, consider booking a cruise with Cunard. This 12-day voyage departs from Southampton, England, and takes you through Norway’s stunning fjords, stopping at ports like Stavanger, Alesund, Narvik, and Tromsø. From the comfort of the cruise ship, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights shimmering above the open sea. It’s an extraordinary way to combine adventure and relaxation while enjoying breathtaking views both in the sky and along Norway’s dramatic coastline.
