6 places to see the Northern Lights in Europe

The fascination with the Northern Lights dates as far back as the beginning of civilization, with the dancing waves of coloured light depicted in French cave paintings as old as 30,000 BC. Typically, they’re only seen in the northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere, near the Arctic Circle, on dark, clear autumn and winter nights. The lights are dependent on unpredictable solar flares ejecting charged particles that collide with gases in the atmosphere, so any trip to see the Northern Lights runs the risk of missing out on the spectacle altogether.

However, as these solar flares have become more powerful in recent years due to the solar cycle being close to its peak, auroras have been spotted as far south from the Arctic Circle as the Baltic States, northern parts of the Netherlands and even southeast England. Here’s where in Europe you’re most likely to catch a show of this mesmerising phenomenon.

1. Tromsø, Norway

Located in an active solar area, at the centre of the Northern Light’s oval, Tromsø in Norway is a popular destination for aurora chasers for good reason. The city, which is above the Arctic Circle, has one of the highest probabilities of spotting the lights in the world. From September to mid-April, the chances of seeing the lights are quite high as both light pollution and cloud cover is minimal. The best bet to see the dancing lights here is to join a Northern Lights tour where expert aurora chasers follow the latest reports of solar flares in a bid to spot them — some operators even offer a second tour free if the lights were too shy to show up on the first try.

How to do it: Norwegian Travel offers a variety of Northern Lights experiences, from bus tours and overnight packages in ice domes to rail adventures and cruises. Prices start from 1,000 NOK (£75) per person.

2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

For those chasing dramatic photos of the Northern Lights, this Icelandic glacial lagoon makes for a breathtaking backdrop. Set on the south coast of Iceland with close to no light pollution and towering icebergs dotted around the water, the lagoon has an otherworldly feel to it. While the lights can be spotted from October to March, the best chance of seeing them is in December, when the daylight hours are limited and the night sky darker. Those heading out on an aurora hunt by themselves should try the hello aurora app for precise forecasts and user-reported sightings.

How to do it: Troll Expedition’s two-day Jökulsárlón tour leaving from Reykjavík runs from October to April. From 89,900 ISK (£529) per person, including transport, accommodation, breakfast and glacier hiking gear.

3. Ilulissat, Greenland

Set in the aptly named Disko Bugt, or Disko Bay, the Ilulissat Icefjord was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. Although the elusive light show can be seen here as early as September, it’s recommended to visit closer to the New Year festivities for an even more special experience. In Ilulissat, locals get to celebrate the stroke of midnight twice — once at 8pm for Denmark, of which it’s part of, and again at midnight local time. If you're lucky, you might get to ring in the New Year with Northern Lights dancing above.

How to do it: Greenland Travel offers a four-night New Year’s Eve package for those wishing to experience polar activity like a local. From €2,550 (£2,205) per person, including flights, transfers, accommodation, breakfast, welcome dinner and New Year’s Eve dinner.

4. Shetland, Scotland

As the solar cycle — an approximately 11-year period of solar activity — is now on its way to reach solar maximum between 2024 and 2025, sightings of Northern Lights have become more common across the whole of Scotland and even in the North of England. However, the Shetland Islands still offer the best chance of seeing the aurora as the most northern part of the UK. Spotting the ‘mirrie dancers’, as they’re known locally, on the remote islands requires a little more patience and determination, as the brighter displays happen just a few times a year between October and March. However, the remote location and lack of light pollution make it all the more worth it when they eventually light up the night sky. To track the UK’s solar activity, visit Aurora Watch.

How to do it: Lean into the wild nature of Shetland at Brekka Lodge’s self-catered coastal accommodation. From £375 per week.

5. Faroe Islands, Denmark

Typically a summer destination, venturing to the Faroe Islands in the harsh winter months means better rates and availability at hotels, and, of course, a higher chance of seeing the elusive Aurora Borealis. Like many places where the lights are visible, weather conditions and daylight will determine whether or not they appear. The best islands for chasing the lights are Suðuroy and Sandoy, from November to February, and the week before a new moon offers the darkest nights.

How to do it: Regent offers a five-day winter fly-drive trips that take in several islands, natural wonders and cultural and historical attractions. From £1,080 per person, including flights, accommodation, car hire and some meals.

6. Rovaniemi, Lapland

Rovaniemi, Finland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The astral light show is visible roughly 150 nights a year, primarily in autumn (September to October), but there’s a good chance of visibility until March. Lapland is famed for being a winter wonderland with plenty of activities that cater to all ages, making it well-suited for family adventures. For those not wishing to take a guided tour, the Arctic Garden behind the Arktikum Museum is a great viewing point, only a 10-minute walk from the town centre. The Aurora Alert Real Time app is available to avoid waiting outside in the cold for hours.

How to do it: Wild About Lapland offers a reindeer safari aurora chase. From €138 (£120) per person, including a sleigh ride, guide, hotel pick-ups, and hot drinks and snacks.