Top Destinations to See the Northern Lights in 2025

Finland: Arctic Magic Beneath the Northern Lights

When it comes to witnessing the Northern Lights in a serene, snow-covered landscape, Finland stands out as one of the most magical destinations in the world. Located entirely within the Aurora Zone, Finnish Lapland offers frequent, vivid displays of the aurora borealis from late August to April. With its dark skies, low light pollution, and variety of immersive experiences, Finland is a dream destination for aurora chasers.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Finland

The optimal time to see the aurora in Finland is between late September and early April, especially on clear, cold nights when the skies are darkest. During this period, auroras are visible around 200 nights a year, particularly in Lapland, the northernmost region.

Top Northern Lights Destinations in Finland

Rovaniemi – Arctic Adventures & Aurora Domes

Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, is a top pick for Northern Lights seekers. Located right on the Arctic Circle, it combines accessibility with high aurora potential.

• What to do: Join a reindeer or husky safari under the night sky, or stay in glass igloos and aurora domes where you can watch the lights from the comfort of a warm bed.
• Why it’s great: Well-developed tourism infrastructure and family-friendly activities make it a great starting point.

Saariselka – Remote, Peaceful & Perfectly Positioned

Nestled in the far north of Finnish Lapland, Saariselka offers vast open skies and minimal light pollution.

• Experience: Snowshoeing or snowmobiling into the fells for a perfect view of the aurora.
• Accommodation: The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is famous for its glass igloos, where visitors can watch the lights dance above without stepping outside.

Luosto – A Hidden Gem with an Aurora Alarm

Luosto is a quieter alternative surrounded by snowy wilderness. It’s home to the Aurora Alert system, which notifies guests when northern lights are visible.

• Highlights: Stunning pine forests, the nearby Amethyst Mine, and well-organized guided tours.
• Best for: Couples and photographers seeking tranquil, crowd-free viewing spots.

Utsjoki – Aurora in the Sami Heartland

Finland’s northernmost municipality, Utsjoki, lies in the heart of Sami culture and offers the longest aurora season in the country.

• Why visit: With virtually no light pollution and a location above 69°N, your chances of seeing auroras are excellent.
• Unique culture: Combine your aurora hunt with a deep dive into indigenous Sami traditions.

Kilpisjarvi – Rugged Beauty and High Probability

Tucked into the northwestern “arm” of Finland near the borders with Sweden and Norway, Kilpisjarvi is an off-the-beaten-path location offering pristine arctic nature.

• Weather advantage: This region has more clear nights than other parts of Finland.
• Ideal for: Independent travelers and serious aurora photographers looking for rugged, dramatic landscapes.

Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights in Finland

• Stay at least 3–5 nights: Increases your chance of a sighting.
• Head north: Lapland (above the Arctic Circle) is your best bet for consistent aurora activity.
• Check forecasts: Use apps like Aurora Alert Realtime or My Aurora Forecast.
• Dress warmly: Temperatures can drop below -30°C in winter.
• Avoid light pollution: Venture outside towns or stay in remote lodges.

Unique Northern Lights Experiences in Finland

• Aurora Ice Floating: Float in a thermal suit in icy water under the aurora-filled sky.
• Northern Lights Photography Tours: Capture the perfect shot with professional guides.
• Sleigh Rides & Snowmobile Safaris: Chase the lights across frozen lakes and boreal forests.

Why Choose Finland for Aurora Viewing?

Finland blends natural beauty, comfort, and accessibility. With a wide range of glass-roofed accommodations, expert-led tours, and culturally rich experiences, it’s one of the most comfortable and rewarding places to experience the Northern Lights in the Arctic.

Tromso, Norway: A Northern Lights Paradise

When it comes to the best places in the world to witness the magical Northern Lights, Tromso, Norway stands out as one of the top contenders. Located 350 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, Tromso is often called the “Gateway to the Arctic” and is one of the few cities in the world where you can enjoy the aurora borealis from a vibrant urban setting, as well as from surrounding wilderness just minutes away.

Why Tromso Is Perfect for Northern Lights Viewing

Tromso lies directly beneath the Auroral Oval, the zone with the highest aurora activity. This geographic advantage means you’re more likely to catch the Northern Lights here on any clear night between late September and early April. On average, Tromso sees aurora activity every other night during this season, making it one of the most consistent places for aurora hunters. What sets Tromso apart is the combination of accessibility, infrastructure, and natural beauty. The city is well-connected by air and offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious boutique hotels and cozy Arctic lodges. Many of them even offer aurora wake-up calls, so you’ll never miss a display while asleep.

Experiencing the Lights: Guided Tours and More

For the best chances of seeing the lights, many visitors book guided Northern Lights tours. These tours use real-time data and expert knowledge to drive you to the best viewing spots in the region, often deep into the surrounding fjords, forests, and mountains. Some include extras like campfires, thermal suits, and photography tips to help capture the aurora.

There are also Northern Lights cruises departing from Tromso, where you can view the lights reflected over the sea, or even dog-sledding and snowmobile excursions under the aurora sky.

Beyond the Lights: Tromso’s Arctic Charm

Tromso is not just about the aurora. During the day, visitors can explore the Arctic Cathedral, visit the Polar Museum, or ride the Fjellheisen cable car for panoramic views over the snow-covered city and surrounding fjords. Tromso also hosts the Northern Lights Festival in January–February, a celebration of music and winter culture.

And don’t forget the local Arctic cuisine—restaurants serve specialties like reindeer, fresh cod, and cloudberries, paired with cozy atmospheres and warm hospitality.

Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights in Tromso

• Stay for at least 3–4 nights to maximize your chances.
• Check the aurora forecast and weather apps regularly.
• Head away from city lights—guided tours often go 1–2 hours out.
• Dress in layers with thermal protection; it gets extremely cold.

Tromso, Norway offers one of the most magical and accessible settings in the world for viewing the Northern Lights, combining natural wonder with Arctic adventure and urban comfort. It’s no surprise that this Northern Norwegian gem is on the bucket list of aurora chasers from around the world.

Abisko, Sweden: The Best Spot in Europe for Northern Lights

If you’re searching for one of the most reliable places in Europe to witness the Northern Lights, look no further than Abisko, Sweden. Located in Swedish Lapland, about 250 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, Abisko is often praised for having the clearest skies and lowest precipitation of any aurora-watching destination in Scandinavia.

Why Abisko Is Ideal for Aurora Viewing

What makes Abisko truly special is its unique microclimate. Surrounded by mountains and located near Lake Tornetrask, Abisko enjoys unusually dry weather and often remains clear when nearby areas are cloudy. This makes it one of the most statistically reliable places in the world to see the aurora borealis. The village lies within Abisko National Park, a pristine natural area with minimal light pollution. That means you’re not only almost guaranteed to see the lights if conditions are right, but you’ll also experience them in a stunning Arctic wilderness setting.

The Aurora Sky Station: A One-of-a-Kind Experience

One of Abisko’s biggest attractions is the Aurora Sky Station, perched on Mount Nuolja. Accessible via chairlift, the station offers a panoramic view of the night sky, far from any artificial light. It’s widely regarded as one of the best aurora observatories in the world. You can book evening tours that include a cozy dinner and a guided aurora experience under the stars.

Adventure Beyond the Lights

While the Northern Lights are the main draw, Abisko also offers daytime activities that immerse you in the Arctic wilderness. Popular options include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, and ice climbing. You can also take a day trip to the famous ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjarvi, located about 1.5 hours away. For nature lovers, Abisko National Park is home to scenic hiking trails—even in winter—and is the starting point of the Kungsleden Trail, one of Sweden’s most famous long-distance hiking routes.

When to Visit and Travel Tips

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Abisko is between late November and late March, when the nights are longest and the skies darkest. Abisko can be reached via a short flight to Kiruna, followed by a train or bus ride north.

Here are a few tips for your visit:

• Book well in advance during peak aurora season, as accommodations are limited.
• Layer up: temperatures can plunge to -20°C or lower in mid-winter.
• Bring a camera with manual settings to capture the lights (or join a photography tour).

Why Choose Abisko for Northern Lights?

• Most cloud-free nights in the Arctic.
• Minimal light pollution within a national park.
• World-famous Aurora Sky Station.
• Arctic activities and stunning landscapes.
• Easy connections via Kiruna.

For travelers serious about seeing the aurora borealis, Abisko, Sweden offers an unbeatable blend of natural beauty, reliability, and tranquility. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned aurora chaser, this northern gem deserves a place at the top of your bucket list.

Reykjavik and the Icelandic Countryside: A Gateway to the Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland is one of the most sought-after destinations to experience the Northern Lights, and the journey often begins in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital. While Reykjavik itself offers occasional glimpses of the aurora, the real magic unfolds just outside the city, where the dark Icelandic countryside reveals the full spectacle of the Northern Lights in pristine clarity.

Northern Lights in Reykjavik: A Capital Experience

During the aurora season (from late September to early April), it’s possible to catch the Northern Lights even within Reykjavik if the skies are clear and solar activity is strong. The city has made efforts to reduce light pollution, and places like Grotta Lighthouse, Oskjuhlio Hill, and the Perlan Observation Deck are popular urban viewing spots.

Escaping to the Countryside: Better Views Await

The real Northern Lights experience happens when you leave the city behind. Within just an hour or two of Reykjavik, you’ll find yourself surrounded by Iceland’s untouched landscapes—volcanic fields, glaciers, lava plains, and rugged coastlines. These remote areas are free from light pollution, making them ideal for aurora viewing.

Here are some countryside highlights for chasing the lights:

• Thingvellir National Park: Part of the Golden Circle, this UNESCO site offers dark skies and a scenic rift valley setting.
• HvalfjOrour (Whale Fjord): A peaceful, less-traveled spot with mountains and mirrored fjord waters reflecting the aurora.
• South Coast Regions: Near waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, the night sky often dances in vibrant greens and purples.
• Reykjanes Peninsula: Near the Blue Lagoon and Keflavik Airport, this geothermal region provides easy-access viewing spots.

Aurora Tours from Reykjavik

Numerous Northern Lights tours depart from Reykjavik every evening during the aurora season. These guided tours take visitors to remote locations based on real-time weather and aurora forecasts. Many operators even offer a free second attempt if the lights don’t appear on the first night.

Helpful Travel Tips

• Best Time: Late September to early April, with peak months being October–March.
• Weather Conditions: Clear skies are essential. Cloudy nights may obscure even the strongest aurora activity.
• Check Forecasts: Use the Icelandic Met Office aurora forecast to plan your evening.
• Dress Warmly: Expect wind, snow, and temperatures below freezing. Layers are essential.
• Photography: Bring a tripod and a camera with manual settings. Or join a photography-focused aurora tour.

Reykjavik + Countryside = Perfect Aurora Base

What makes Reykjavik special is its combination of urban comfort and close proximity to Iceland’s wild nature. You can spend the day exploring museums, geothermal spas, and trendy restaurants, then head out in the evening for a once-in-a-lifetime Northern Lights chase under Arctic skies. Whether you’re staying in Reykjavik or venturing into Iceland’s epic landscapes, this region offers an unforgettable aurora experience that blends culture, nature, and adventure in one breathtaking journey.