Top 5: Places to See the Northern Lights

While Canada, Alaska and Iceland long topped the list of best places to see the Northern Lights, there are a few more you might want to explore. For anyone needing a reason to plan a wintery getaway, here you go!

Abisko, Sweden

The small Swedish village of Abisko, centered in the Swedish Lapland, packs a serious punch when it comes to viewing the Aurora Borealis. Watch the unobstructed neon lights dance across the sky at the Aurora Sky Station in the Abisko National Park. Ride up on a chairlift to the top of the mountain where visitors watch the clear night sky light up.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

With nearly the same incredible natural wonders and breathtaking sites of Iceland, Greenland is like the best-kept secret in Northern Lights exposure — Kangerlussuaq, specifically. Deep in the fjords to the west, this small town also happens to be the airport hub and convenient for travelers. Expect all the ice-cave hikes, snowshoeing and night-sky viewing of Iceland, but with an added sense of remote stillness.

Murmansk, Russia

For serious travelers and winter lovers looking for the road less traveled, Murmansk, Russia, sits just above the Arctic Circle and acts as a gateway for Northern Light-hunting tourists seeking comfortable town stays deep in the wilderness.

While the location might be ideal for a Northern Lights getaway, it may be one of the more difficult to achieve. Check with a travel agent or booking agency to see your accommodation options and whether or not you need a visa.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Listing destinations to view the Northern Lights would be nearly impossible without mentioning Finland. Rovaniemi, also known as the hometown of Santa Claus, is easily accessible and a completely magic experience. Located right on the Arctic Circle, Northern Light viewing in Rovaniemi is exquisite.

Tromsø, Norway

Built for Northern Light viewing, Tromsø, Norway, offers pretty unbelievable light shows. Another reason Norway makes the cut? It’s easily accessible and offers city attractions from dining and shopping to sightseeing and seasonal festivals.