Bruno Pugh
It starts with a glow, maybe green, maybe red, stretching low over a frozen lake or mountain ridge. Then, it rises, twists, and flickers across the stars. Not every place gets a show like that. If you want to watch the northern lights, here are the top ten places where the phenomenon actually shows up with a real performance.
Fairbanks, Alaska
When daylight vanishes, the skies above Fairbanks get to work. Between late August and early spring, the aurora borealis puts on regular displays that ripple above snowfields like liquid fire. Bundle up and look north—the colors move quickly, but the memory won’t fade soon.
Tromso, Norway
Tromso doesn’t wait for perfection. Even below overcast skies, auroras dance to be admired. This Arctic town lights up from September to March, particularly when geomagnetic storms kick up activity. Chase the light over fjords and forests, then let the reflection double your view.
Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
Iceland offers even more dramatic views. Thingvellir National Park is far from artificial light and close to high auroral activity. Late fall through March gives you the best odds. When green arcs slice across lava plains, it feels like the Earth is exhaling light.
Yellowknife, Canada
Yellowknife’s location directly beneath the auroral oval makes it one of Earth’s most reliable viewing spots. From mid-November to April, clear skies enhance visibility. With up to 240 active nights annually, this region offers consistent, long-lasting aurora displays without obstruction.
Abisko, Sweden
Abisko’s secret isn’t just its northern location—it’s the weather. The “Blue Hole” above the valley keeps clouds away while snow blankets everything below. December to March offers clarity that only a few places match. Clear skies, cozy feel, silence, and auroras that actually show—Abisko rarely disappoints.
Lapland, Finland
High above the Arctic Circle, Lapland rewards those who seek stillness. Nights stretch long, and auroras can flash unexpectedly between starlit clouds. From late autumn through March, head to remote igloo villages near Saariselka. Under those glass-roofed cabins, the show becomes almost surreal.
Yukon, Canada
Remote and wild, Yukon’s skies glow with vivid auroras between late August and April. Whitehorse serves as a top viewing base, offering expansive, unobstructed views. Low light interference and cold, dry air enhance visibility. All of this makes each clear night a mesmerizing opportunity to witness the northern lights.
Svalbard
Endless darkness might seem ideal for aurora hunting, but it comes at a cost in Svalbard. Temperatures drop sharply, and winds cut through layers fast. The weather calls the shots—either the sky explodes with color or stays black for days. This one tests your willingness to wait.
Kangerlussuaq And Nuuk, Greenland
Kangerlussuaq stays true to the promise. The experience here is truly magical. This region has over 300 clear nights annually, which makes it one of the best spots for uninterrupted views in Greenland. As for Nuuk, it offers dramatic coastal backdrops. But plan wisely because this spot’s weather isn’t always cooperative.
Murmansk, Russia
Murmansk isn’t just cold. This Russian city is a place where winter dominates everything. Endless darkness and fierce winds make it challenging to bear, but that’s also why the auroras shine so clearly. Brave the elements on the Kola Peninsula, and nature will hand over a glowing reward.