The Top 7 Places To See The Northern Lights in 2025

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, is one of the most spectacular shows put on by Mother Nature and is a bucket list item for many travelers. Experts say that 2025 will be one of the best years to see the lights as the sun is at its solar maximum. There is an increase in these ethereal lights across the Auroral Zone, a geomagnetic latitudinal band between 65° and 70° N where solar activity is the strongest.

Whether you are looking to plan a trip to see the Northern Lights this year or in the years to come, here are our top seven locations you should consider to have the highest chance of seeing this spectacular show light up the night sky.

Iceland

Iceland is commonly regarded as one of the top places to see the Northern Lights, and for good reason. Its location, in addition to its stunning landscapes, make Iceland a perfect location to view the Northern Lights. The capital, Reykjavik, has multiple international flight options, making direct flight options easy from North America and Europe. While viewing inside of Reykjavik is possible, venture outside of the capital to reduce light pollution at locations like Thingvellir National Park or the Blue Lagoon. 

If you want to increase your chances of spotting the aurora borealis, head towards the northern peninsula to Iceland’s Westfjords. Secluded towns such as Bolafjall or Ísafjörður offer excellent opportunities for spotting the iconic neon streaks across the night sky. 

Finland

Finland, a winter wonderland located in the Arctic Circle, is an enchanting place to see the Northern Lights and its location ensures high auroral activity. Rovaniemi, considered the official hometown of Santa Claus, is a charming location to search for the lights. Inari, located in the far north, is a remote destination to view the aurora borealis with breathtaking lakes and the wilderness, offering a unique background. 

Finland offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy including snowshoeing, skiing, reindeer and dog sledding, adding to the charm of the country. 

Alaska, USA

If you do not have a passport or do not want to leave the United States to view the Northern Lights, you can see the lights in Alaska. Typically, the best time of year to see the lights is from late August to late April, meaning that the temperatures will be bone-chilling, but the sights make bundling up well worth it. Fairbanks is known for its clear skies and frequent auroral activity, with multiple tour options available for visitors to see the lights. 

If you are looking to stay warm while viewing the lights, there are many cozy cabins and hot springs 30 to 60 minutes outside of Fairbanks. Alaska is the perfect location to see the lights later in the season. 

Norway

Norway, located just barely within the Arctic Circle, is a beautiful location to check seeing the Northern Lights off your bucket list. Tromsø, the capital city of Norway, offers stunning views of the lights, while being an easy location to fly in and out of. There are also many tours to choose from in Tromsø, whether you want to view the lights from within the city or in more remote locations outside. 

If you want a unique way to view the lights, book onto a dedicated Northern Lights spotting cruise or head to Svalbard where the nights are longer, to see the aurora borealis light up the dark skies. 

Greenland

Even though it is considered to be a more remote location, Greenland is one of the best locations to see the Northern Lights. With an inland location with stable weather, Kangerlussuaq is located in Western Greenland and has the country’s largest commercial airport. The area is known for its natural landscapes such as the Russell Glacier. While traveling to Greenland may require extra effort, it pays off with unique views and stories to tell your family and friends back home.

Sweden

While Norway, Iceland and Finland are often thought to offer the best Northern Lights spotting locations in the Nordics, Sweden has many options as well. Head to the Swedish Lapland to the city of Abisko, known for some of the clearest skies in the auroral area due to its remote location and limited light pollution. Two mountains around Abisko create a cloud-free microclimate at night, ensuring a prime viewing experience. Or head to the Aurora Sky Station to see panoramic views of the Northern Lights.

Another location in the Swedish Lapland is the city of Kiruna. Kiruna is located near the Esrange Space Center, which offers guided tours to view the lights with a trained guide. For a unique experience, book a few nights in The Icehotel, located just outside of the city. 

Canada

Canada’s Northwest Territories offers some of the most consistent Northern Lights displays. The city of Yellowknife, home of the Indigenous Dene people, offers visitors heated teepees for a comfortable and optimal viewing experience. Located directly under the Auroral Oval, the most concentrated area of aurora activity, the area sees up to 240 nights a year of light activity. Its location, combined with cold and clear winters, makes Yellowknife one of the best locations to see the Northern Lights in the world. 

No matter where you choose to view the Northern Lights, you are guaranteed to witness one of nature’s most amazing sights. Whether you travel to the Nordics or stay closer to home in Alaska or Canada, any of these destinations will offer you the best chance to view the aurora borealis. So, pack your warmest coat and gloves and get ready for the experience of a lifetime. If you are ready to plan your Northern Lights getaway, contact the team at Avondale Travel today!