Great places to see the northern lights in Scandinavia
Thanks to their location within the area where the northern lights are most prominent, the northern parts of the Nordic countries are attracting aurora hunters from all over the globe who want to see the magical and elusive light show created by nature itself. Here are some of the destinations in Norway, Finland, Sweden and Iceland that can almost guarantee you a sight of the beautiful aurora borealis.
The fascinating natural phenomenon aurora borealis draws millions to the so-called "aurora zone" – the region around the magnetic North Pole, where auroral activity is most frequent. This zone spans latitudes between 65° and 75° north, which includes much of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland. In other words, if you want to see the northern lights, you should head to the Nordic countries.
Norway
It's no secret that the Frozen films draw a lot if inspiration from the land of the fjords – the folklore, the nature and the northern lights. And as the country on the Scandinavian peninsula located closest to the North pole, Norway is a popular choice for aurora hunters.
Tromsø: Known as the "Capital of the Arctic," the city of Tromsø is one of the best places to see the auroras. It offers excellent viewing spots and guided tours. Website: Visit Tromsø
Finland
The Finns have own the friendly contest among the Nordic countries as the home of Santa Claus, and the thought of elves and flying reindeers feel almost realistic when you experience the magical northern lights surrounded by snow and dark skies in the deep Finnish forests.
Rovaniemi: Known as the "official" hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi offers great chances to see the auroras, often combined with activities like husky sledding and snowmobiling. The town is located in the Finnish part of the Sápmi region that even includes the northern parts of Sweden and Norway, and offers visitors the possibility to learn more about the rich culture of the Sami indigenous people who has inhabited the area prior to the formation of the Nordic countries. Website: Visit Rovaniemi
Saariselkä: A peaceful location with glass igloos and aurora cabins for comfortable viewing. This remote ski resort is located close to both the Norwegian and Russian borders in the northenmost part of Finland. Website: Northen Lights Village
Kemi: Located by the Gulf of Bothnia, the coastal town of Kemi offers aurora cruises on icebreaker ships. Website: Visit Kemi
Sweden
As with its neighbours to the east and the west, it is possible to see aurora borealis even in the southern parts of Sweden given that the activity of the northern lights are particularly strong. A safter bet, however, is to travel up north where the chance of aurora spotting is far more reliable.
Abisko: This national park is known for its "Blue Hole," a microclimate that often keeps the skies clear and therefore makes Abisko one of the most reliable spots for viewing the northern lights. Website: Visit Abisko
Kiruna: This northern mining town offers great aurora viewing opportunities and is a gateway to nearby wilderness areas. Website: Kiruna Lapland
Jukkasjärvi: Home to the world-famous Icehotel, which combines luxury with aurora watching. Imagine relaxing on a bed made of ice after hunting for the northern lights in the evening. Truly a memory for life. Website: Icehotel
Iceland
The Icelanders take the passion for northen lights seriously – the country's weather service regularly releases aurora forecasts for the island. Wonderful!
Thingvellir National Park: Just an hour from Reykjavik, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers excellent viewing opportunities in a remote, dark-sky area. Website: Thingvellir National Park
Reykjavik: The capital's outskirts provide good viewing spots, like Grótta Lighthouse. Website: Visit Reykjarvik
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A magical setting for aurora photography, with icebergs reflecting the lights. Website: Glacier Lagoon