Best places to see the northern lights
Every 11 years, the sun has what's essentially a personality change known as solar maximum, going from chill and quiet to dramatic and stormy. We're currently at the peak of that cycle, which means more sunspots, stronger solar flares, and the kind of solar activity that creates those jaw-dropping aurora displays you've been dreaming about. Translation? This is your chance for Northern Lights travel, when nature's most spectacular light show is performing at maximum intensity.
This year's solar maximum means destinations like the northern US and the United Kingdom may also get a glimpse of the magic. Here's my breakdown of the best destinations to see the Northern Lights.
Best places to see the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are visible from many destinations, so it's important to choose the one that's right for your style, pace, and budget. That's where I come in.
The Nordics
Norway, Sweden, and Iceland are well known for their prime viewing. Plus, they offer dog sledding, ice fishing, and other authentic arctic experiences.
LOCATION SPOTLIGHT: Tromsø
Tromsø delivers Northern Lights magic with a side of local culture. This Arctic city sits in the sweet spot above the Arctic Circle where coastal weather patterns create clearer skies than you'll find inland. Enlist an indigenous guide—or Sámi—to add historic and cultural perspective with their centuries-old storytelling.
STAY SPOTLIGHT: Eleven Deplar Farm
This award-winning lodge is set on the remote Troll Peninsula of Northern Iceland. You’ll find stylish rooms, upscale dining, and even a spa, but the best part is soaking in the geothermal pool while the Northern Lights glow overhead.
TOUR SPOTLIGHT: 5 Million Star Hotel, Iceland
We travelled to Iceland in 2019 and this tour was an absolute highlight. Get taken by SUV to the main sites along the golden circle and spend the night in an inflatable bubble, getting to see the lights and the stars. A completely magical experience.
FAROE ISLANDS
Located between Iceland and Norway, these islands are a great fit for travelers looking to get off the beaten path. Book a room at Hotel Føroyar for the best Northern Lights viewing.
Stay Spotlight: Hotel Føroyar
Located just 15m walk from the capital, this quaint little hotel offers two restaurants, wine cellar and spa and is a great base for your visit to see the lights
FAIRBANKS, ALASKA
No passport? No problem. Fairbanks sits directly under the "Aurora Oval" and is famous for its excellent aurora borealis viewing.
Tour Spotlight: SkyChase™ Northern Lights Experience
This highly rated tour is one of the only ones with a guarantee, you will be transported to the best viewing spots and come away with an aurora portrait to remember the experience by.
NORTHERN CANADA
You can technically see the Northern Lights in most of Canada, but to avoid coastal fog, head to the Northwest Territories.
Experience Spotlight: Aurora Village
Aurora Village operates tours from just near Yellowknife national park in Canada. Expect a great time with knowledgable guides where you can even hire the clothing you will need.
Cruises that offer viewings of the lights
Three of my favorite cruise lines offer a Northern Lights Promise. Hurtigruten, Havila Voyages, and HX all sail ships directly through the aurora zone. And even if the aurora doesn’t show, you get a do-over—either a free cruise (Hurtigruten and Havila) or travel credit (HX) for another sailing. It’s a rare travel guarantee that takes the risk out of chasing one of nature’s most unpredictable shows.
How to maximise your chances of seeing the lights
Many of my tour partners offer guarantees, taking you out night after night until you see the auroras. However, it's important to remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can never be fully guaranteed. Here is how you can maximize your chances:
Timing: Travel between September and early April, and plan around new moons and equinoxes. Plus, the best aurora usually appears within an hour or two of midnight.
Location: Choose destinations to minimize light pollution. The farther from city glare, the better. Connect with me to book some of my favorite remote hotels.
Chase smarter: Use the Space Weather Prediction Center's Aurora Forecast tool to be in the right place at the right time.
Seeing the Northern Lights or Aurora is on so many peoples bucket lists. The great thing to know is there are lots of options in how you go about seeing them. Let us help you cross it off your bucket list. Plan your journey with vlvt.travel today - get in touch.