If witnessing the Northern Lights has been on your bucket list, then 2025 is the year to tick them off! Thanks to the solar maximum (the peak of the Sun’s 11-year cycle), which will cause the auroral activity to be stronger, brighter, and more frequent than it has been in years. This means your chance of seeing the aurora borealis in full glory is better than ever!

But before we tell you the best Northern Lights viewing places, let’s clear up a common misconception: you can see the Northern Lights 24/7! Many people assume that as long as you travel far enough north, you are bound to see the auroras. That’s not true. Multiple factors decide whether you will be able to see the Northern Lights with the naked eye, such as clear weather, dark skies, and strong solar activity. That means even if you’re in the Arctic, auroras won’t always be visible without the right timing and location. 

That’s exactly why we have put together this guide, covering the best places in the European and the American continents to see the Northern Lights. From these destinations, you can choose your preferred place based on ease of travel, travel budget, weather sensitivity and activities of interest.  

Here are the 6 best places to see the Northern Lights that we will be talking about:

1. Tromso, Norway

2. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

3. Finnish Lapland, Finland

4. Churchill, Canada

5. Abisko, Sweden 

6. Alaska, USA
   

Important Note: Make sure to check the entry requirements before planning your trip. If you need a visa, consider applying through Atlys for a visa guaranteed on time, ensuring everything goes according to your plan!

1. Tromso, Norway

Tromso is undoubtedly one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Located at 69°N, well within the Auroral Oval (a zone where aurora activity is most frequent), Tromso provides high chances of witnessing this celestial display on most clear nights between September and April.

What makes Tromso a fantastic destination for aurora chasers is the variety of ways you can experience the lights. You can take a guided Northern Lights tour deep into the wilderness, away from city lights, to increase your chances of spotting the aurora. Alternatively, you can watch them from cosy fjordside cabins, atop snowy peaks, or even aboard an Arctic cruise! If you’re lucky, you might even see the lights dance directly above the city! With 2025 being a solar maximum year, auroras in Tromso will be brighter and more frequent, making this the perfect time to visit.

What is the best time to visit Tromso?

September to April is the best time for those specifically interested in Northern Lights viewing in Tromso. Out of these also, December to March are the peak viewing months. Moreover, during this time (mid-November to mid-January), you will also get to experience 24-hour almost darkness, which provides an additional ideal time for aurora hunting!

Pro-tip: Time your trip with the moon cycle. A new moon or crescent moon phase ensures a darker sky, making auroras appear more vibrant. 

What else to explore in Tromso?

While the Northern Lights are the highlight of any winter trip to Tromso, there’s so much more to experience. You can embark on a fjord adventure or wildlife safari, where you can cruise through icy waters and spot orcas, humpback whales, reindeer, and Arctic foxes. For thrill-seekers, dog sledging and snowmobiling options are also available.

Don’t miss a visit to the Arctic Cathedral, followed by a cable car ride up Fjellheisen for breathtaking panoramic views. When in Norway, enjoy familiarising yourself with the Sami culture by learning about their traditions, meeting indigenous reindeer herders, and even feeding or riding reindeer. History buffs will love the Polaria and Polar Museum, which showcases Arctic wildlife and exploration. You can even experience Tromso’s Polar Night in winter when the city remains in 24-hour darkness!

Know before you go

1. Before heading out, check websites like Norway’s Meteorological Institute (Yr.no) or the Aurora Forecast App to get real-time aurora and weather predictions.

2. Consider joining a guided tour, as local guides track auroral activity and take you to the best spots for an unforgettable experience.

3. Even though auroras can be visible from Tromso, heading to darker locations like Kvaløya Island or Lyngen Alps boosts your chances.

4. Stay at least 3-4 nights. The more nights you stay, the better your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis.

5. Temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower, so thermal layers, waterproof gear, and insulated boots are essential.

6. Tromso is a small city with reliable public transport, but renting a car gives you the flexibility to chase the Northern Lights in remote areas where visibility is better.

2. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, located on Iceland’s southeastern coast, is another breathtaking place to witness the Northern Lights. Although the lagoon is 5-6 hours from the nearest city of Reykjavik by car, if you plan in advance, you can stay overnight in the nearby town of Höfn or Skaftafell or find the nearest stays to the lagoon to avoid long drives at night.

To maximise your viewing chances, plan your visit on a clear, dark night and position yourself near the lagoon for the most stunning reflections of the auroras. Nearby Diamond Beach, where ice chunks glisten on black volcanic sand, is another magical place to watch the lights dance across the sky. 

What is the best time to visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon?

The Northern Lights season in Jokulsarlon runs from September to April, with October to March being the best months due to longer nights and frequent aurora activity. Since the lagoon is far from artificial lights, any clear winter night presents a great opportunity for aurora sightings.

Pro-tip: Arrive early to explore the glacial landscapes during daylight and stay past 10 PM for the best Northern Lights visibility.

What else to explore near Jokulsarlon?

Beyond chasing the Northern Lights, Jokulsarlon and its surroundings offer some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. You can explore Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, where you can hike glacier tongues, ice caves, and volcanic landscapes. Consider taking a boat tour through the lagoon, navigating between massive floating icebergs. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, book a glacier hiking or ice-caving tour at Skaftafell, where you can walk inside glowing blue ice caves during the winter months. 

You can also explore the nearby cities of Höfn, a charming fishing town famous for its delicious langoustine (Icelandic lobster), and Reykjavik, where you can see the stunning Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and basalt sea stacks. Consider unwinding in Sky Lagoon, explore Hallgrímskirkja Church, or enjoy the lively local cafés and bars.

Know before you go

1. Icelandic weather is unpredictable. Use Vedur.is for cloud cover updates and the Aurora Forecast App to track Aurora activity.

2. The Ring Road to Jokulsarlon can be icy and hazardous. Renting a 4x4 vehicle (consider hiring a professional driver) and checking road conditions on the Road.is is highly recommended.

3. Dress in warm, windproof layers, as coastal winds can be harsh, and temperatures can drop below -10°C (14°F) in winter.

4. Cloudy nights can block the auroras, so staying in the region for at least 2-3 nights increases your chances of a clear-sky experience.

5. Book an Ice Cave Tour in winter. The famous Crystal Ice Caves of Vatnajökull are only accessible from November to March, offering a unique Arctic adventure beyond aurora hunting.

3. Finnish Lapland, Finland

The northernmost region of Finland, the Finnish Lapland, is situated above the Arctic Circle; this magical region offers over 200 nights of aurora visibility per year, making it one of the most reliable destinations for catching this celestial phenomenon.

What is the best time to visit Finnish Lapland?

The Northern Lights season in Finnish Lapland runs from late August to April, with the best months being September to March, when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest. One of the most unique aspects of visiting Lapland in December and January is the Kaamos (Polar Night), when the sun barely rises, creating extended twilight hours perfect for aurora hunting.

What else to explore in Finnish Lapland?

Beyond the Northern Lights, Finnish Lapland offers a true Arctic adventure filled with snowy landscapes, traditional culture, and thrilling winter activities. You can start your journey in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, where you can visit Santa Claus Village, meet reindeer, and cross the Arctic Circle. For a deeper cultural experience, explore Inari, the heart of Sami culture, where you can visit the Siida Museum and learn about the indigenous Sami people and their traditions.

For adventure seekers, Levi and Saariselka are top destinations for skiing, snowboarding, and winter safaris. If visiting with family, make sure to try dog sledging or snowmobiling across frozen lakes and snowy forests or take a reindeer sleigh ride under the auroras for a truly magical experience. Definitely do not miss out on soaking in a traditional Finnish sauna for a once-in-a-lifetime relaxation experience.

Know before you go

• Use the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s aurora forecast or apps like Aurora Alert to track solar activity and cloud cover.

• Since aurora sightings depend on weather conditions, staying multiple nights increases your chances of a clear night.

• For a unique experience, book a glass-roofed igloo or a wilderness cabin where you can watch the auroras from the comfort of your bed.

• Warm up after a night of aurora chasing by enjoying a traditional Finnish sauna, an essential part of local culture.

• While Finnish Lapland has public transport and guided tours, renting a 4x4 vehicle gives you the flexibility to chase the lights and explore remote areas with minimal light pollution.

• Lapland’s Arctic environment is fragile. Avoid loud noises, don’t trespass on private land, and follow ethical wildlife guidelines when encountering reindeer or other Arctic animals.

4. Churchill, Canada

Located in Manitoba, Canada, Churchill offers over 300 nights of aurora activity per year. Unlike many other locations, where aurora visibility depends on weather conditions, Churchill has a subarctic climate with frequent clear nights, significantly boosting your chances of seeing the lights.

You can diversify your viewing experience by viewing the lights from a heated Tundra Buggy, a glass-domed Aurora Pod, or a remote eco-lodge deep in the wilderness. Churchill is also famous for its polar bears, meaning you could be watching the auroras while in the heart of polar bear country! With 2025 being a solar maximum year, this is the perfect time to tick Churchill or Canada off your bucket list. 

Important Note: Churchill has no roads connecting it to the rest of Canada, so you’ll need to fly from Winnipeg or take a two-day scenic train ride through Manitoba’s wilderness. Local stays in Churchill also book fast, so book your stay well in advance. 

What is the best time to visit Churchill?

Although the Northern Lights season in Churchill runs almost throughout the year, the best months are January to March, when the skies are darkest, and the auroras are most active.

For those wanting to combine wildlife viewing with aurora chasing, visit Churchill in October or November, when polar bears gather on the shores of Hudson Bay, waiting for the sea ice to form. During this time, you can see both the Northern Lights and polar bears in one trip.

What else to explore in Churchill?

Known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, Churchill offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see polar bears in the wild. A Tundra Buggy tour is the best way to observe these majestic creatures safely while experiencing Churchill’s vast, icy landscape. For those looking for high-energy Arctic adventures, Churchill offers dog sledging and snowmobiling tours across the snow-covered tundra, providing a thrilling way to explore the region.

During the summer months (July-August), beluga whales take over the Churchill River, with thousands migrating to the warm waters. You can take boat tours, paddleboard excursions, or even kayak alongside these playful and curious marine mammals. 

Beyond wildlife, Churchill is rich in Inuit history and Arctic culture. A visit to the Itsanitaq Museum showcases centuries-old artefacts, Inuit carvings, and exhibits on Arctic exploration. You can also explore the Prince of Wales Fort, a massive 18th-century stone fortress built by the Hudson’s Bay Company. 

Know before you go

1. Use the Aurora Forecast app and Environment Canada’s weather updates to plan the best nights for Aurora viewing.

2. Churchill is a small, remote town with minimal infrastructure, so don’t expect supermarkets or endless dining options. Stock up on essentials like snacks, batteries, and medications before arriving. 

3. Never wander outside town limits alone, especially in October-November when bears are most active. Stick to designated areas, travel with a guide, and always check with locals about recent bear sightings.

4. Batteries drain fast due to extreme cold. Bring spares, keep them warm, and use hand warmers to prevent freezing. 

5. Churchill’s winter temperatures can drop below -30°C (-22°F), so pack heavy-duty thermal gear, insulated boots, mittens, and a face mask to protect against frostbite.

6. Churchill is a small town with limited accommodations and tour spots, so reserve your Tundra Buggy and Aurora tours months in advance.

7. Due to Churchill’s extremely dark skies, a tripod, high ISO (1600+), long exposure (5-15 sec), and manual focus are essential for capturing breathtaking aurora photos.

5. Abisko, Sweden 

Another great European destination for Northern Lights viewing is Abisko in Sweden. Located above the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland, this small village is home to the Aurora Sky Station, one of the world’s premier locations for aurora viewing. 

One of the best things about experiencing the Northern Lights in Abisko is its unique microclimate, which results in clearer skies compared to other locations in Scandinavia. Whether you're watching the auroras from the Sky Station, hiking into the Abisko National Park, or enjoying the view from a cosy wilderness lodge, the chances of witnessing the magical green, purple, and red hues dancing above the snowy mountains are exceptionally high. For a truly immersive experience, you can even combine your aurora chase with snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or a dog sledging tour under the Arctic sky.

What is the best time to visit Abisko?

The Northern Lights season in Abisko runs from September to April, with December to March offering the best conditions due to long winter nights and stable weather.

What else to explore in Abisko?

Beyond the Northern Lights, Abisko offers a true Arctic wilderness experience with stunning landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures. A visit to Abisko National Park is a must, where you can go snowshoeing or winter hiking through pristine trails surrounded by frozen lakes and towering mountains. For adrenaline seekers, dog sledging and snowmobiling tours provide an exciting way to explore the Arctic wilderness.

Just a short journey from Abisko is Jukkasjarvi, home to the world-famous Icehotel, where everything, from the walls to the furniture, is carved out of ice. Whether you stay overnight or simply visit for a drink at the Ice Bar, it’s an experience like no other. Another natural wonder is Lapporten, the "Gateway to Lapland," a stunning U-shaped mountain formation that offers breathtaking winter sunrise and sunset views. Consider visiting a Sámi village to learn about the indigenous Sámi people, meet reindeer, and enjoy a traditional meal inside a lavvu (Sámi tent). 

Know before you go

1. Use Sweden’s meteorological site (SMHI) and the Aurora Forecast app to track cloud cover and aurora activity.

2. The easiest way to reach Abisko is via train from Kiruna or by taking an overnight train from Stockholm, which provides a scenic Arctic journey.

3. Winter temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F) or lower, so thermal layers, insulated boots, and windproof gear are essential.

4. The Sky Station experience is limited, so booking ahead ensures you don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

6. Alaska, USA

Alaska is one of the best places in the United States to see the Northern Lights, thanks to its high latitude, long winter nights, and vast wilderness with minimal light pollution. Located directly under the Auroral Oval, Alaska offers some of the most frequent and vivid aurora displays in North America. 

The experience of watching the Northern Lights in Alaska is nothing short of breathtaking. Whether you're viewing the auroras from a cosy lodge in Fairbanks, a remote cabin in Denali, or an Arctic igloo in Coldfoot, each location offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

What is the best time to visit Alaska?

The Northern Lights season in Alaska runs from late August to early April when the nights are the longest and the skies darkest. For the best experience, visit during the winter months (November–March), when auroral activity is strongest, and the snow-covered landscapes add to the magic. However, if you prefer warmer weather, September and early October also offer a great balance of Northern Lights viewing and outdoor activities before deep winter sets in.

Pro-tip: Fairbanks is considered one of the best places in the US to see the auroras, as it has more clear nights than coastal areas like Anchorage.

What else to explore in Alaska?

Start your journey in Fairbanks, the aurora capital of Alaska, where you can visit the Aurora Ice Museum, Chena Hot Springs, and the University of Alaska’s Geophysical Institute, which provides real-time aurora forecasts. For an unforgettable wilderness experience, take a dog sledging tour through the snowy tundra or enjoy an ice fishing excursion under the Arctic sky.

If you’re feeling adventurous, travel further north to Coldfoot or Wiseman in the Brooks Range, where the auroras are even more vivid due to zero light pollution. A scenic flight to Utqiaġvik (Barrow), the northernmost town in the US, offers a unique Arctic cultural experience. For those interested in Alaska’s vast wildlife, Denali National Park is a must-visit, home to moose, caribou, wolves, and the towering Denali Peak, North America’s highest mountain. No trip to Alaska is complete without visiting Glacier Bay National Park, where you can witness calving glaciers and breathtaking icy landscapes.

Know before you go

1. Use Alaska’s Geophysical Institute’s Aurora Forecast website to track aurora activity and cloud cover.

2. Fly into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), then rent a car or book a tour to remote locations like Coldfoot or Chena Hot Springs for a better viewing experience.

3. Temperatures can drop below -30°C (-22°F) in winter, so dress accordingly.

4. For an unforgettable experience, stay in a glass-roofed igloo or aurora-viewing cabin, such as Borealis Basecamp near Fairbanks.

Conclusion

The above-mentioned destinations, Tromso, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Finnish Lapland, Churchill, Abisko, and Alaska, are some of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. Whether you’re staying in a glass-roofed igloo in Finland, taking a boat tour on Iceland’s glacier lagoon, or spotting polar bears under the auroras in Churchill, each of these destinations will give you an unforgettable time!

To maximise your experience, make sure to stay for multiple nights, check the aurora forecasts, and choose locations with minimal light pollution. Also, make sure to dress appropriately for sub-zero temperatures and book your accommodations and tours in advance.