Lighting up the northern hemisphere skies

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, remain one of the world’s most breathtaking natural spectacles, a dance of vibrant colours in the night sky. For those dreaming of witnessing this celestial ballet, here are the five best places to see the Northern Lights, along with some tips on how to make the most of the experience.

1. Tromso, Norway

Nestled in the heart of the Norwegian Arctic and known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromso offers unrivalled access to the Northern Lights. With direct flights from London in just 3.5 hours, this lively city boasts excellent aurora viewing from September through April. Away from city lights, you can find pristine spots with little light pollution, perfect for vivid displays. Beyond the lights, Tromso charms with its bustling nightlife, cozy pubs and local culture – making it an ideal blend of adventure and comfort.

2. Swedish Lapland

For a more tranquil and remote aurora experience, Swedish Lapland beckons with its stark wilderness and small communities like Kiruna and the famous ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi. The region offers a long viewing season from October to March, with occasional extended periods of clear skies. The Luleå archipelago is another gem here, combining dark skies, traditional activities like husky sledding, and minimal light pollution.

3. Reykjavik and the Westfjords, Iceland

Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, is a cosmopolitan hub with easy access to natural wonders and a frequent Aurora Borealis showcase. For uninterrupted, serene views, venture north to the Westfjords peninsula region, known for minimal cloud cover and near-complete absence of light pollution. The best months to visit run from late September through March. Iceland’s combination of geothermal pools, volcano tours and rugged landscapes make it a captivating aurora base camp.

4. Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland

Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers quintessential Arctic festivities alongside excellent Northern Lights viewing. Located just north of the Arctic Circle, this winter wonderland allows for aurora sightings from September to April. Visitors can enjoy husky rides, snowmobile safaris, and even stay in unique glass igloos or cozy log cabins designed for watching the aurora in comfort.

5. Ilulissat, Greenland

For a remote and wild setting, Ilulissat on Greenland’s west coast presents a spectacular Northern Lights stage free of crowds and distractions. Its location inside the aurora belt, coupled with stable weather conditions like low wind and rain, results in reliable and frequent aurora displays between September and April. The town’s stark Arctic landscapes enrich the experience, with activities like dog sledding and Arctic caving enhancing daytime adventures.

Tips for the best northern lights viewing

• Timing is everything: The prime Northern Lights season is generally from late September to early April, when nights are long and dark. Avoid the summer months due to the midnight sun.
• Get away from city lights: Light pollution can drown out the aurora’s glow. Seek rural or wilderness locations, or take guided tours away from urban centres for ideal conditions.
• Patience is key: The lights don’t appear on schedule and can be faint before bursting into dancing colours. Prepare to stay outdoors for several hours; some tours offer warm shelters and hot drinks.
• Check the aurora forecast: Use local meteorological services or specialised aurora apps to pick nights with high solar activity and clear skies.
• Dress warmly: Arctic nights can be bitterly cold. Layered thermal clothing and insulated outerwear are essential, especially if you plan to stay out for long periods.
• Embrace the moment: While capturing the lights on camera is tempting, experts recommend experiencing the spectacle firsthand without distractions to fully savour the magic.

From the lively streets of Tromso to the silent fjords of Greenland, spotting the Northern Lights is a captivating journey of patience, wonder and awe — an experience that lingers long after the colours fade from the sky. Whether you chase them in Scandinavia’s Arctic heart or Iceland’s volcanic wilds, these five destinations offer some of the world’s best chances to witness the auroral ballet in all its glory.