7 Winter Escapes To Witness The Northern Lights
From Europe to Alaska, Bazaar Arabia shares the best places to sight the Northern Lights in 2025
With the Winter season right around the corner and last-minute family holidays in need of planning, could we tempt you to see one of the greatest natural phenomena?
This burst of colour in the sky, or formally known as Aurora Borealis, is formed when the Sun’s particles collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, charging-up the gas atoms to emit several shades of colour which glow in the sky. As a result, we are blessed with this ethereal occurrence which ignites a feeling of warmth to blanket the chilly winters.
This wonder of nature can only be seen in some parts of the world as the Earth’s magnetic field targets these particles towards the poles. Make your winter escape one to remember with the following unforgettable destinations.
7 Winter Escapes To Witness The Northern Lights
Finland
Ever thought you’d be able to say that you have crossed the Arctic Circle on a sledge, whilst being pulled by a group of huskies?
Lapland, or in other words, Santa’s home, is every child’s dream destination. From Santa Claus Village, to reindeer rides – yes, reindeer’s do exist – you can get your fix of Winter Wonderland right here. With every inch of the sky covered in stars, you’ll want to seize the opportunity to take an ice water dip under this spectacular view, before warming up in the sauna with a glass of hot cocoa, it’s a kind of magic like no other. Stay the night in a glass igloo and watch the illuminating colours dance above you from the comfort of your bed, or set off to chase the lights on a frozen lake. Reside in Lapland’s capital, Rovaniemi, or venture up to Levi where you can glide onto the slopes if you’re a skier or snowboarder. Finland is filled with adventure galore and there are chances to view the Northern Lights at its peak, between the months of November to March.
Norway
Situated above the Arctic Circle is Norway, where majestic Fjords meet the history of the Viking’s. Famously known as a vantage point for the Northern Lights is Tromsø – located in the northern region of Norway. There is an ample amount of adventure to indulge in, right from cruising along the fjords to wilderness hikes. Norway possesses a rich history and the largest population of the indigenous Sámi culture. Along with the great heritage to take in from your visit, this Nordic location offers some of the most incredible sightings. From mid-November to late January, Svalbard faces Polar Night – where the country has complete darkness – hence you can spot the Northern Lights at any time of the day.
Iceland
Offering a more rugged and untamed path is Iceland. Standing tall and icy are their magnificent glaciers and waterfalls. Whilst blazing and fiery are the geothermal hot springs and volcanos. It doesn’t stop just there, towards the southern region are the black sand beaches where ATV riding is common. There is no shortage of wonders in Iceland. Take a trip to Thingvellir National Park or head to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula for some of the best Northern Lights’ views. Between the months of November to March you can even see the lights powerfully from the capital city of Reykjavik, avoiding the city’s light pollution.
Sweden
Hop on an Icebreaker cruise and experience the storm of colours that surround you from the Gulf of Bothnia. You can even walk on the frozen part of the Baltic Sea or float in the icy waters. Sweden offers arresting views of the Borealis along with winter activities including snowmobiling on a frozen lake to cross-country skiing. Spend a night in the magnificent Icehotel and drive to Abisko, where the skies are clear, creating the ideal night to see the Northern Lights between the months of November to March.
Greenland
Known for having over 300 nights of clear skies each year, Kangerlussuaq tends to get a front-row seat to the colourful show. With minimal light pollution and easy accessibility to travel internationally, this region is a crowd favourite. Embark on an ice cap excursion or set off on a safari to spot some of the native wildlife including the musk oxen, arctic foxes, whales, seals and the rare polar bear. Your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Greenland are higher between late September to April.
Alaska
Fairbanks is one of the most promising places to sight the Aurora between September and April as it is located beneath the Aurora Oval – the belt that surrounds the magnetic poles of the Earth. From heated lodges to glass rooftops, you can experience the lights from a setting of comfort. While you’re there, take a dip in the Chena hot springs or kayak down the Chena River. Other notable destinations to catch the celestial lights include Denali National Park; the remote lands of Coldfoot and Wiseman where camping is popular, and Utqiaġvik (also known as Barrow), which is located farther north, offering optimal conditions to view the Aurora.
Canada
Yellowknife puts on some of the most memorable displays. Indulge in activities such as ice-fishing or visit the exquisite Cameron River Falls. Commence on a guided Northern Lights tour where you can chase the vibrant lights as they dance at multiple scenic view points during the long winters, starting from mid November and lasting till April. Alongside Yellowknife, Churchill boasts a number of sightings for the Borealis each year and is also known to be the ‘polar bear capital’, offering a rare chance to witness these majestic creatures for a lucky few.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram /@allaboutlapland