Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Europe
The further north you travel, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. While the Aurora can occasionally be spotted further south, the best locations are above the Arctic Circle.
Finnish Lapland
One of the most reliable spots for seeing the Aurora. With long winter nights, minimal light pollution, and stunning wilderness, Lapland offers an ideal setting.
- Yli-Kyrö, home to Kelo Resort, is a hidden gem for Northern Lights chasers. Its remote location means there’s little artificial light, allowing for breathtaking displays right outside your cabin.
- Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, is a popular spot where visitors can combine Aurora hunting with winter activities like husky sledding.
- Saariselkä, Levi, and Inari are known for their open landscapes and clear skies, perfect for catching the lights. Some hotels even offer glass igloos for a warm and comfortable viewing experience.
Tromsø, Norway
Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø is one of the best places in Europe to see the Northern Lights.
The city is located directly beneath the Aurora Oval, where the lights are most frequent. Surrounded by mountains and fjords, Tromsø provides incredible backdrops for Northern Lights photography.
The nearby Lofoten Islands offer a unique setting with dramatic coastal scenery, while Alta and Senja are less crowded alternatives with high Aurora activity.
Abisko, Sweden
This small village in Swedish Lapland is famous for its Aurora Sky Station, one of the best places in Europe to see the lights.
Abisko has a microclimate that reduces cloud cover, increasing visibility. The surrounding national park provides pristine, unspoiled nature, making it a dream location for photographers and nature lovers.
Iceland
With its volcanic landscapes, geysers, and glaciers, Iceland offers a surreal setting for the Aurora Borealis.
- Thingvellir National Park is one of the most accessible spots, just an hour from Reykjavík.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is famous for its floating icebergs, which reflect the Northern Lights beautifully.
- Kirkjufell Mountain is one of Iceland’s most photographed locations, often featured in stunning Aurora images.
Scotland
While not as well-known as the Nordic countries, Scotland occasionally experiences strong Northern Lights displays.
- The Shetland & Orkney Islands are the most reliable locations in the UK, thanks to their northern latitude and low light pollution.
- Cairngorms National Park is another great spot, offering dark skies and easy accessibility from major cities.
When to See the Northern Lights in Europe?
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Europe is between September and March when the nights are the longest. However, factors like weather and solar activity also play a role.
December
A magical time to visit, with snowy landscapes and festive holiday lights. However, the weather can be unpredictable, and cloud cover may block the view. Finnish Lapland and Abisko tend to have the best chances of clear skies.
February
One of the best months for Aurora hunting. By this time, the winter skies have cleared up in many locations, and there are still plenty of hours of darkness. Tromsø, Abisko, and Yli-Kyrö in Finnish Lapland are all top choices during this period.
Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights
Even in the best locations, the Northern Lights are never guaranteed. Here’s how to improve your chances:
Stay for at least 3-5 nights
The Aurora is unpredictable, so giving yourself multiple nights increases your odds of a clear sighting.
Check the Aurora forecast
Websites like the Norwegian Meteorological Institute or Aurora Service Europe provide real-time forecasts.
Get away from city lights
Light pollution can make it harder to see the Aurora, so head to remote areas with dark skies.
Dress warmly
Arctic temperatures can drop well below freezing, so wear layers, thermal gloves, and insulated boots.
Use a camera
Sometimes, the Northern Lights are faint to the naked eye but show up beautifully on a camera with a long exposure setting.
Conclusion: Where to See the Northern Lights in Europe
For the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights in Europe, visit Finnish Lapland, Tromsø, Abisko, or Iceland between September and March.
If you’re looking for a peaceful, untouched setting, Kelo Resort in Yli-Kyrö is an incredible spot to experience the magic of the Aurora Borealis. With no city lights to interfere and a stunning natural backdrop, it’s a dream destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts.
Book your trip, dress warmly, and get ready for an unforgettable night under the Arctic sky!
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