No matter if you find such stories fascinating, the natural phenomena of the Aurora Borealis is something you really need to experience at least once in your life. And there are lots of places you go, from Europe to north America.
If you are trying to find out where to go for the perfect Northern Lights winter sighting break then we have put together a list of the 6 top rated destinations you should consider visiting to this this spectacular light show for yourself.
1. Svalbard, Norway
As the Northern Lights are only possible to be seen in higher altitudes, visiting Svalbard is a great idea.
Between November and February is the best to visit Svalbard when nights are longest and darkest and you'll stand the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights. This time of the year is particularly popular with tourists who also want to experience days without actual sunlight termed as Polar Nights.
Some local travel companies offer adventure trips which can include snowmobile night tours to go out in the wilderness to see the Northern Lights. Another popular trip is to see bears.
Before booking a trip to Norway you should be aware that this is one of the most expensive countries on our list in terms of accommodation, sightseeing and eating out. But there are ways to save money, view these tips for how to visit Scandinavia on a budget.
2. Kakslauttanen, Finland
Finland is one of the most spectacular destinations in Europe, and to see the northern lights, Kakslauttanen is one of the top rated places to go.
This is also one of the most romantic places due to the amount of amazing accommodation options here.
For a totally unique experience you could book to stay at the incredible Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (pictured above). This is a purpose built hotel where you will stay in igloo structures with glass roofs giving you the perfect chance to literally sleep under the stars.
Imagine going to bed and seeing the Northern Lights in the sky right through the glass lying in your own bed - this really is something to tick off your bucket list.
You might like to check out Finland tours, some operators offer combo trips taking you to see the northern lights and also doing other activities like a husky trip.
3. Kiruna, Sweden
There are so many reasons to travel to Sweden, this is one of the most popular countries to visit in Scandinavia and to see the northern lights we recommend a trip to the city of Kiruna.
Kiruna is a popular destination for tourists for various reasons including being one of the top places to see the Aurora Borealis up close. This is also where country’s first ice hotel was constructed.
Though Kiruna is off the beaten track and located in a remote area, it is definitely worth a visit if you want to see Aurora Borealis. The best time to travel here is between September and late March when you stand the best chance to see the northern lights.
If you have never visited Sweden before you might want to also include a visit to the popular capital city of Stockholm.
4. Alaska & Canada
Alsaka and Canada is comparatively a larger area to visit for experiencing the Aurora Borealis.
Visiting this region might become a little heavier on your pockets as it is slightly more expensive for tourists who fly in from Europe, but if you live in north America it is the perfect place to go.
Check out this list of top places to see in Alaska which will help you plan a dream break and see as much as possible.
The ‘Aurora Oval’ can be witnessed in many parts of Alaska and northern Canada including Northern Saskatchewan, Yukon, Newfoundland, British Colombia and Nova Scotia.
Sometimes you can also experience the Northern Lights in the major cities of Canada, like the photo above in Toronto.
There are two best times of the year to see the northern lights in Canada, August to October and November to April.
View Canada tours for trips.
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is one of the most naturally stunning countries in the world with scenery to rival most countries. This is also one of the most popular and easiest places to see the northern lights if you are arriving from Europe.
Thousands of tourists fly to Reykjavik every year and there is so much to do in Iceland including visiting the world famous Blue Lagoon - a geothermal spa, seeing the northern lights, going whale watching, seeing thermal hot springs or chasing waterfalls.
If you keen to do an independent trip view these tips for diving in Iceland or if you want to visit but get guided to the best locations in the country search tours in Iceland which will give you a chance to see the northern lights.
The best time to travel to Iceland to see the Northern Lights is September through March when nights are longest and darkest. Also if you really want to impress the friendly local people learn some useful Icelandic phrases before arriving.
6. Scotland, United Kingdom
If you live in the UK you might not realise that Scotland is the nearest place to see the aurora borealis during winter if you don't want to travel abroad.
You really don’t need to travel all the way to Canada or Scandinavia to witness the Northern Lights, but you will need to get lucky with the timing.
Rural areas of Scotland with less light pollution are some of the top locations to see the Northern Lights. From cities like Glashow and Edinburgh, you can easily reach the northern areas of Scotland by car or train seeing beautiful scenery which will add to the enjoyment of the trip.
The best time of the year to see the northern lights in Scotland is from March - April and September - October.
Plan Your Northern Lights Trip
Seeing the northern lights in person really is the trip of a lifetime, and something which will stay with your forever.
There really are options for so many different country, but where ever you decide to go, make sure you make the most of the experience and enjoy the other activities and adventures available.
Make sure you pack warm clothing for all the destinations featured on our list as peak times for seeing the Northern Lights is during winter. One final tip is to never book a trip during a full moon, the light can block out the show.
