See the Northern Lights is something that absolutely everyone on earth should experience at least once, it is difficult to make your way up north and be prepared when you get there. But don’t worry! It’s important go beyond just going out into the dark with an open mind.

For a spectacular visual feasting, there is nothing better than witnessing the best Northern Lights show. A full sky display of light that washes out all the stars in heavens while filling up your soul with awe and wonder. The greenish and orange streamers dance like spirits above you and feel magnificent when it moves over you like cool breeze from another world.

The Northern lights or Auroras Borealis can be seen in the middle of winter (generally from December through March) from areas above latitude 65 degrees north. The greenish color of this light comes from nitrogen molecules which are emitted by atoms higher than 80 km above the earth’s surface. For the best viewing, you have to find a place that is extremely dark outside and has low light pollution.

Where to See the Northern Lights

Tromso, Norway – Tromso is one of the best places in Europe to see the Northern Lights. Based in the heart of the aurora zone in the Norwegian Arctic, this city is known as one of the world’s best places to see the Auroras Borealis .

Swedish Lapland – The Swedish Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Because of a lower latitude, Siberian winds make it possible for Sweden to be exposed to Aurora Borealis much more often than places like Alaska, Iceland or Norway. But what makes this place so special? And why should you choose Northern Lights tours from Sweden instead of other countries with similar geographical location?

Reykjavik, Iceland – There are two reasons why you should add Iceland to your bucket list. First, the Northern Lights and second, everything else in this amazing country that makes it oh so unforgettable. You’ve got Viking history (and their famous Sagas), geothermal springs, beautiful hiking trails and of course thermal pools for when you get tired from adventuring all day long.

Yukon, Canada – Do you want to know the best places in Canada to watch Northern lights? There are a ton of locations, some have perfect darkness and others with dark skies. But one place stands out among all other cities in terms of its picturesque beauty or features – that’s Yukon.

Ilulissat, Greenland – Not many people know this, but the North West region of Greenland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Acclaimed as being “the most beautiful place on earth” by National Geographic photographer Robin Foster, Ilulissat is a small (approx 30 population) seaport town in Southwest Greenland that’s nestled against an epic iceberg graveyard surrounded by blue ice and jagged mountains. The residents are friendly folk who go about their peaceful life in an isolated yet pristine environment.

Tours to See the Northern Lights

When exploring your options to see the Northern Lights, taking a guided tour can be one of the best ways. You will have local guides to be able to take you to the best viewing areas in your destination. They also are during the best times to view them as well. Although the weather may be cold, there are plenty of luxury tours that will guide you through this spectacular adventure. You may not see the lights every nights but these tours give you a fantastic chance to witness them for yourself. Click here to see some of my favorite tours.

Cruises to See the Northern Lights

Another way to see the Northern Lights is on a cruise. There are many different cruise lines who specialize in the Arctic and Baltic regions. They also have specialty cruises that focus on finding and viewing the spectacular light show. Some of the stand-out cruise lines that feature these types of cruises are Seabourn, Hurtigruten, Cunard Line, Princess Cruises and Quark Expeditions. Click here to see upcoming cruises to see the Northern Lights.

Don’t forget that you can enjoy a spectacular show in Southern New Hampshire too – if you know where to look (and what time of year).