6 magical hotspots where travellers can see the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights regularly make the news thanks to being able to see the natural wonder now and then.

However, a lot of people haven’t had a chance to catch them and witness them in all their glory.

Booking.com has pulled together a roundup of the best locations to see the Northern Lights and one of the locations is even in the UK.

So, for those who don’t want to hop abroad on a plane and pay a lot of money, this could be a good option.

Let’s take a look at the six locations in more detail.

1. Reykjavík, Iceland

Iceland is an excellent destination for viewing the Northern Lights due to its unique geographical location, which offers some of the clearest and most reliable opportunities to witness this natural phenomenon.

Positioned just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland experiences long, dark nights during the winter months which is an ideal condition for spotting the auroras.

The country’s low levels of light pollution, especially in remote areas like Thingvellir National Park or the Westfjords, allow for breathtaking, unobstructed views of the colourful lights.

2. Shetland, Scotland

Shetland, the northernmost part of the UK, is a great place to visit for viewing the Northern Lights, known locally as the “Mirrie Dancers”.

Located at a high latitude, closer to the Arctic Circle than mainland Scotland, Shetland offers excellent chances of witnessing the aurora borealis, especially during the long, dark nights of winter between October and March.

The island’s remote location and low levels of light pollution make it easier to enjoy the auroras in all their vibrant colours.

3. Tromsø, Norway

Tromsø, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is one of the best places in the world to experience the Northern Lights.

Located in the heart of the auroral zone in northern Norway, Tromsø offers exceptional chances to witness the aurora borealis, especially between September and April when the nights are long and dark.

Its coastal climate keeps temperatures relatively mild compared to other Arctic destinations, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities like Northern Lights safaris.

4. Lapland, Finland

Lapland, located in northern Finland, is an exceptional destination for viewing the Northern Lights due to its position within the auroral zone. This is where the chances of seeing the natural phenomenon are very high, particularly between September and April.

Lapland’s vast, untouched wilderness, marked by snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and rolling hills, offers an ideal setting for witnessing the aurora borealis in serene, low-light environments.

5. Ilulissat, Greenland

Ilulissat, a charming town in western Greenland, is an incredible destination to witness the Northern Lights due to its location above the Arctic Circle, where auroral activity is frequent and vibrant.

Visitors can enjoy the magical display from a range of viewpoints, whether it’s atop snowy hills, along the frozen coastline, or even from boat tours navigating the ice-filled waters.

The combination of Ilulissat’s breathtaking Arctic scenery and the awe-inspiring Northern Lights makes it a perfect, off-the-beaten-path destination for a truly immersive natural experience.

6. Faroe Islands, Denmark

The Faroe Islands, an isolated archipelago in the North Atlantic, is a fantastic destination for witnessing the Northern Lights due to its remote location and low levels of light pollution.

Positioned between Iceland and Norway, the islands offer dark skies ideal for clear aurora borealis sightings, particularly from November to February. The islands’ small population and sparse infrastructure make it easy to find peaceful, secluded spots to view the lights.