The Northern Lights have captivated the curiosity of people all over the world with their spectacular display, resembling and art image painted in the night sky. These neon-colored lights, also known as Aurora Borealis or Polar Lights, appear at certain periods caused by stimulated solar particles colliding with atmospheric gases, and can last for minutes or even days. It is a lesser-known fact that the Northern Lights can be seen in both the northern and southern hemispheres.
The optimal time to witness this natural phenomenon is during the cold and dark nights between December and March, when the sky is clear. The best locations to view the lights are usually those situated closer to the artic circle, where the chances of capturing the Northern Lights are greater. If you are looking to add places to your list to witness this incredible event, here are some of the most beautiful cities from around the world where you can watch the Northern Lights.
Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø is considered on of the best places to view the Northern Lights due to its location within the Aurora Belt. The city has a bustling nightlife and is often called the “Gateway to the Artic.” You can join a Northern Lights tour and witness the phenomenon from a variety of viewpoints, including by boat, on foot, or from a mountaintop. With its snow-covered landscape and fjords, Tromsø provides a stunning backdrop to the colorful lights in the sky.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is known for its natural beauty and stunning landscapes, but it is also a prime location. During winter months, the city has shorter daylight hours, increasing the chances of seen the aurora borealis. There is a guided tour available to chase the lights and witness the natural wonder. The colorful lights dancing over the city’s snowy mountains and glaciers make for a truly unforgettable sight.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi is the official hometown of Santa Claus and the capital of Lapland. During winter, he city becomes a winter wonderland with snow-covered forests, frozen rivers, and a chance to witness the Northern Lights. You can join a snowmobile safari, go ice fishing, or join a Northern Lights tour.
Abisko, Sweden
Abisko is a small village located in the Aurora Sky Station in Swedish Lapland. The village is known for having clear skies, making it an ideal location to view this phenomenon. The Aurora Sky Station also offers a chairlift ride to a mountaintop viewing platform whew visitors can witness the lights in all their glory. The remote location and breathtaking views make for an unforgettable experience.
Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks is a city located in the heart of Alaska and is one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights in the United States. The city is known for its clear skies and low light pollution, making it a prime location for stargazing and Northern Lights viewing. Here you can also join a guided tour, take a god sled ride, or soak in natural hot spring while watching the lights.
Yellowknife, Canada
Yellowknife is the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories. The city is located directly under the Aurora Oval, making it an ideal spot to witness the natural phenomenon. Visitors can join a tour to view the lights from a variety of locations, including a frozen lake, a teepee, or a heated viewing cabin. The vibrant colors of the Northern Lights reflect off the snow-covered landscape, creating a surreal experience.
Witnessing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. These beautiful cities offer a chance to witness this natural phenomenon; from the snow-covered mountains in Iceland to the rugged landscape of Alaska, each location provides a unique and unforgettable experience.
