The best places in Europe to see the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or the Aurora Borealis, is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that shows unearthly colors in the night sky above the snowy Arctic wilderness. It is a life changing experience that will leave your heart pounding and your soul elevated. So, when and where can you see the Northern Lights? Check out our top 5 places to see the Aurora Borealis and use our European travel planner to set up your next perfect getaway:
Svalbard, Norway
Wild, dramatic and almost untouched. You can’t get much further north than Svalbard. The Aurora season is between November and February, but even If you don’t get to see the lights, Svalbard is full of amazing Arctic adventures like boat trips, glacier hikes, and expeditions by snowmobile or sled ride.
Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
This winter wonderland village is home to the magical Icehotel. There are amazing Northern Lights snowmobile tours from the hotel, but even if you don’t get to see the lights, you can participate in the countless frozen activities, such as snow scooters and a dog-sledding trip.
Reykjavik, Iceland
The capital of Iceland is like the little engine that could! This small city is familiar and friendly as it is energetic and exciting. There are cozy cafes, great restaurants, street art, cool musical acts, museum and vibrant nightlife. Reykjavík is the most accessible place to see the Northern Lights, and also a great starting point for many adventures, day trips, horseback riding, glacier climbing, river rafting, caving and whale watching.
Scotland, United Kingdom
Rugged, mystical and untouched, where majestic castles dominate the skyline of medieval cities and unspoiled wilderness creates an almost ancient isolation; Scotland is a land of extremes, and few places can claim such a wide variety of experiences. The coast of Caithness in the far north of Scotland is one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis. If you made it to Scotland from far away, you should consider also combining it with an Ireland road trip, which we promise will be a breathtaking vacation!
Luosto, Finland
Finland has countless Aurora sightings. In the tiny village of Luosto you can get an “Aurora Alarm,” which will beep once the lights appear. You can also check in at the unbelievably enchanting Kakslauttanen resort where you can see the lights from inside your ice igloo.
Are you ready to brave the cold to see this spectacular phenomenon?
