Best Places to See the Northern Lights: An Aurora Borealis Guide

The Northern Lights are among the nature’s most mesmerizing spectacles. Watching the vibrant greens, purples, and reds dance across the night sky is a bucket-list experience for many. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to see the Northern Lights this year.

2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for chasing this magical phenomenon. In this post, let’s explore the most-loved destinations for the Northern Lights across the globe. Also, know about the best time to witness them and how to make the most of your Northern Lights adventure.

What Are the Northern Lights?

Before we dive into where to see the Northern Lights, let’s take a moment to understand what they are. The Northern Lights are natural displays of light. These are also known as Aurora Borealis, merry dancers, and polar lights.

The Northern Lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with Earth’s atmosphere, creating stunning light displays. These particles enter the atmosphere, creating a beautiful light show. Marvel at soft and vibrant glows, dancing waves of color across the night sky.

The best Northern Lights sightings occur in regions near the Arctic Circle, where the aurora is most active. However, these lights are not restricted to just one place—many destinations offer incredible views of the aurora.

Why 2025 Is the Year to Chase the Aurora?

2025 marks the peak of Solar Cycle 25, meaning increased solar activity and more frequent, vibrant auroras. This heightened activity makes it an ideal year for Aurora chasers.

What is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights?

The best time to see the Northern Lights is during winter. It is because cold months witness the longest nights and the darkest skies. The peak season for Aurora Borealis sightings typically runs from late September to early April, with some of the best months being October, November, February, and March.

Which are the Best Places to See the Northern Lights in 2025?

Let’s look at the best places to see the Northern Lights in 2025 that will help you choose your most preferred destination.

1.Norway: The Northern Lights Capital

Norway’s Arctic regions are renowned for their aurora displays. The best place to see the Northern Lights in Norway is in Tromsø, often called the "Gateway to the Arctic. Other notable spots include:

• Lofoten Islands
• Alta

These locations offer unique experiences such as dog sledding under the Northern Lights or staying in cozy cabins with panoramic views of the sky.

Best time: September to April, especially October 2025 for peak activity

2. Iceland: A Dream Destination for Aurora Seekers

If you’re looking for dramatic landscapes to accompany your Northern Lights experience, Iceland is a must-visit. Known for its volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls, Iceland offers some of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis.

Popular Northern Lights hotspots in Iceland include -

• Thingvellir National Park
• Reykjavik
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Kirkjufell Mountain

You can even enjoy the aurora while soaking in a hot spring, such as the famous Blue Lagoon. A magical setting for aurora photography.

Best time: September, October, and March

3. Finland: The Land of the Midnight Sun

Finland is another top contender for the top spots to see the Northern Lights. Finnish Lapland is especially known for its magical winter landscapes. You can enjoy Northern Lights tours while staying in unique glass igloos or traditional log cabins here.

Popular spots for aurora viewing include -

• Rovaniemi
• Kakslauttanen

Best time: Between September and March

4. Alaska: The Last Frontier

Alaska is one of the best places to enjoy the Northern Lights. This Alaskan city offers some of the most reliable sightings of the aurora, with an impressive 240 nights of potential Aurora Borealis activity each year.

Best merry dancers’ places -

• Fairbanks
• Denali National Park

Delight in winter activities like snowshoeing, ice fishing, and dog sledding. Don’t miss out on the Aurora Oval - a prime location

Best time: From mid-September to April

5. Canada: A Vast Land of Aurora Viewing Opportunities

Canada’s vast wilderness provides perfect conditions for aurora viewing. Top spots include:

• Yellowknife
• Yukon
• Whitehorse
• Churchill

Best time: Winter 2025 for long nights and clear skies.

Please note

You can also take up Northern Lights cruises along Canada’s coast and enjoy the aurora from the comfort of a luxury ship.

6. Sweden: A Winter Wonderland for Aurora Seekers

Sweden is often overlooked when it comes to Northern Lights travel. But do you know? There are some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Sweden for enthusiasts.

Most loved places include Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland. Additionally, Sweden offers winter activities such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and husky sledding.

Best time: Winter 2025 for optimal conditions

7. Greenland and Russia: Remote Northern Lights Viewing

For a truly remote experience, Greenland and Russia are two of the most unique Northern Lights experiences. In Greenland, Kangerlussuaq is a top location for aurora seekers, while Murmansk, Russia, offers a rare opportunity to see the aurora in an off-the-beaten-path destination.

These places are ideal for travelers looking for remote Northern Lights viewing locations far from the crowds, with pristine landscapes and minimal light pollution.

Best time: October

8. Scotland: A Hidden Gem for Aurora Viewing

While not as famous as some of the other locations, Scotland offers some hidden gems for lovers of polar lights.

Excellent opportunities for viewing the aurora are in the -

• Isle of Skye
• North Coast 500
• Cairngorms National Park

Best time: Winter months, especially October or November

Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights in 2025

Check the Forecast

With the solar maximum in full swing, 2025 promises exceptional aurora displays. Keep an eye on NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center for Northern Lights forecast and updates in 2025. You can also use apps like Aurora Forecast to track activity. Websites like the Aurora Service and Space Weather provide updated forecasts.

Avoid Light Pollution

Choose a dark, clear location as light pollution can hinder your view, so find a remote location with a clear sky for the best experience.

Dress Warmly

Northern Lights viewing often takes place in cold, wintery conditions. So make sure you’re prepared with the right clothing for Arctic nights.

Photography Tips

Use a tripod and long exposure settings for stunning shots.

Be Patient

The Northern Lights are unpredictable, so it’s important to stay patient and plan for multiple nights.

How to Plan Your Northern Lights Trip in 2025?

To plan a Northern Lights trip, consider booking a Northern Lights vacation package. These tours often include transportation, accommodations, and expert guides who know the best places to see the Aurora Borealis. Whether you want a luxury Northern Lights tour or an affordable aurora borealis viewing experience, there's a package for every budget.

The Northern Lights cruises also offer an incredible way to chase the aurora while exploring new places.

What Can I Do for Unique Northern Lights Experiences?

• Glass Igloos in Finland: Sleep under the stars in a heated igloo.
• Dog Sledding in Norway: Combine aurora viewing with Arctic adventures.
• Polar Bear Tours in Canada: Witness wildlife under the aurora.

Affordable Aurora Borealis Viewing

If you’re on a budget, consider destinations like Yellowknife or Iceland, where affordable tours and accommodations are available. For luxury seekers, Norway and Finland offer high-end experiences.

Set Off on a Trip to Polar Lights

The best places to see the Northern Lights are scattered across the globe, from the icy landscapes of Alaska and Canada to the serene beauty of Norway and Iceland. Whether you prefer a remote adventure in Russia or a cozy stay in Finland, there’s a perfect destination for every type of traveler.

Start planning your Northern Lights trip today and experience one of the most spectacular natural phenomena on Earth. Don’t forget to pack your camera and prepare for a magical adventure under the stars!