10 top places to see the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most striking light shows, dancing waves of colour that illuminate the Arctic skies. Every year, thousands of travellers set out across the Northern Hemisphere in search of this phenomenon. While sightings depend on clear skies and solar activity, certain destinations offer a better chance of viewing the lights in all their glory. From the fjords of Norway to the wilderness of Canada and Alaska, here are ten places where the odds, and the landscapes, are in your favour.

​Often called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø lies within the auroral oval and offers frequent aurora sightings from September to April. It combines city comforts with easy access to dark wilderness and guided light tours.​

Located far north between mainland Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard experiences polar night from mid‑November to mid‑January, making daylight northern lights possible. Deserted, raw, and dramatic.

​In the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi offers roughly 150 aurora nights a year. Stay in glass igloos or cozy cabins with wilderness all around.​

​Deep in Finnish Lapland, Inari combines Sami cultural experiences with high aurora visibility—ideal for remote, serene sky‑watching under dark, clear skies.​

​Often called the "City of the Northern Lights," Alta has dry weather and frequent clear skies. It also offers hotels and lodges specially designed for aurora viewing.​

Under the auroral oval, Fairbanks offers consistent aurora activity between August and April, minimal light pollution, and dark nights for clear viewing opportunities.

Remote and wild, Churchill is known for polar bears and strong aurora displays. The subarctic skies and wilderness setting offer excellent visibility.

​Northern latitude, dark skies, and close wilderness access make Whitehorse a reliable choice for aurora hunters. Brief escapes into the bush boost viewing chances.​

Areas like Jökulsárlón and the Black Sand Beaches in southern Iceland are excellent aurora spots. Clear off‑shore weather offers good visibility between October and March.

​The Lofoten archipelago and Abisko in Swedish Lapland both lie in the auroral zone with low cloud and light pollution. Unique accommodations and Arctic landscapes enhance the aurora experience.​