Top 10 European Spots to Marvel at the Aurora Borealis
In the vast, dark skies of Europe, the enchanting spectacle of the Northern Lights can be a rare yet mesmerising sight. Here are some of the top locations where you can increase your chances of catching a glimpse of this breathtaking natural phenomenon.
Norway, a country of fjords and mountains, offers several prime spots for aurora viewing. Tromsø, considered one of the best and most accessible cities, boasts numerous guided tours for those seeking the perfect view. For a unique experience, Kirkenes offers snowy accommodations that add to the magical atmosphere. The Lofoten Islands, with their stunning landscapes and sea reflections, provide an idyllic backdrop for the Northern Lights. North Cape, the northernmost mainland spot, offers minimal light pollution, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Svalbard, a remote archipelago north of Norway, is another excellent destination for aurora hunting, with the added bonus of being home to polar bears [1][3][5].
Iceland, with its cool climate and volcanic landscapes, offers long dark nights and clear skies, ideal for viewing the Northern Lights. Westfjords and North Iceland are particularly renowned for their aurora viewing opportunities, while Thingvellir National Park, near Reykjavík, is a convenient and popular location. Greenland, with its minimal light pollution and vast open areas, especially around Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq, provides a remote and awe-inspiring setting for the Northern Lights [1].
Finland, notably Rovaniemi, offers a combination of cultural experiences and strong aurora visibility chances. With a chance of seeing the Northern Lights on clear nights around 40%, Rovaniemi is a popular base for Northern Light hunters [5].
To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, follow these four main rules: get north of the Arctic Circle, get inland, be flexible, and be patient. Abisko, Sweden, for instance, offers the Aurora Sky Station, an open chair lift taking you to an observation lounge and restaurant on a mountaintop, where you can watch the Northern Lights [4].
Shetland, Scotland, with its unique culture and heritage, offers another excellent opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. The Shetland Islands, with their Viking museums and memorabilia, provide a fascinating backdrop for this magical natural phenomenon [2].
Remember, the Northern Lights are a moving natural phenomenon, and there is no one best place to see them in Europe. However, locations inside or near the Arctic Circle with low light pollution, clear, dark skies, and during the darker months from late autumn to early spring offer the best viewing conditions [6].
So, if you're planning a winter trip, these locations might just provide the perfect opportunity to witness one of nature's most spectacular displays - the Northern Lights. For more travel tips and advice, check out our posts on the best times to visit these destinations and other European locations for aurora viewing [7].
[1] Travel and Leisure [2] Visit Scotland [3] Lonely Planet [4] Abisko Tourist Information [5] Finland Tourism [6] NASA [7] Our Travel Blog
In Finland, help enhance your opportunity to witness the Northern Lights by visiting Rovaniemi, where a combination of cultural experiences and high aurora visibility chances are promising. For a unique travel experience, consider staying in Kirkenes, Norway, which offers snowy accommodations that complement the magical atmosphere.
