Northern Lights Hotels
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The Northern Lights—also known as the aurora borealis—have enchanted people since time immemorial. This magical display of glowing colours dancing across the night sky is a natural phenomenon like no other. But where are the top places to see this stunning sight? When is the ideal time to travel? And where should you stay to be in with the best chance of catching a glimpse of this out-of-this-world occurrence? From hotels in northern Norway to igloos in Lapland, there are all kinds of accommodation options promising a room with a truly unforgettable celestial view.
Book Northern Lights Hotels in Popular Destinations
Canada Northern Lights Hotels
Boréale Ranch
Alaska Northern Lights Hotels
Alaska Heritage House Bed and Breakfast
Iceland Northern Lights Hotels
Hotel Kriunes - A city hotel by the lake
Finland Northern Lights Hotels
Arctic Light Hotel
Norway Northern Lights Hotels
Sommarøy Arctic Hotel Tromsø
Sweden Northern Lights Hotels
Arctic gourmet cabin
FAQs
Where can I see the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights can be seen in various countries around the North Pole. The “auroral zone”, as this area is known, includes much of Scandinavia and the Nordic region, specifically NorwayOpens in a new window, SwedenOpens in a new window, FinlandOpens in a new window, IcelandOpens in a new window and GreenlandOpens in a new window. Further west, you stand a good chance of seeing the aurora in parts of CanadaOpens in a new window and northern Alaska, as well as Russia. The specific locations can vary depending on the earth's geomagnetic activity and time of year, so be sure to check current conditions before your trip.
When do the Northern Lights occur?
Displays of the Northern Lights tend to be strongest around the equinoxes (specifically March/April and September/October) due to the increased electromagnetic activity at these times. While the aurora does occur year-round, it's easiest to spot it when skies are darker—so book your glass igloo to view the Northern Lights from September to April to be in for the best chance of seeing the show.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
Iceland is one of the top places to see the Northern Lights, thanks to its northerly location. The aurora is most visible in areas with low levels of light pollution, making spots like the remote glacier lagoon of Jökulsárlón or the black sand beach of Breiðamerkursandur ideal places to see this phenomenon. However, it's also possible to catch the aurora in the country's capital, ReykjavíkOpens in a new window: just head to one of its quiet parks or suburbs to boost your chances of spotting it.
Can you see the Northern Lights in the summer?
Although the Northern Lights do occur in summer, it's relatively rare to see them during these months due to a phenomenon called Midnight Sun, where the sun never fully sets. In short, the sky isn't dark enough for the glowing lights to be clearly visible. That's why it's generally recommended to book your Northern Lights trip in autumn, winter or early spring, when night-time darkness is guaranteed.
What is the best place in Norway to see the Northern Lights?
The region of Troms (and its capital Tromsø) in northern Norway is considered one of the best places in Norway to see the aurora in —so you can't go far wrong with booking a hotel in TromsøOpens in a new window to see the Northern Lights. For a truly immersive experience, consider opting for an igloo hotel in Norway's remote Sorrisniva, where you can watch the stars—and hopefully the aurora—from the comfort of your bed.
Where is the best hotel to see the Northern Lights?
Generally, most hotels near the Arctic Circle will be a great base for spotting the aurora. For a truly unique experience, think about reserving an igloo for your Northern Lights trip to, say, FinlandOpens in a new window or Norway. Here, your room takes the form of a glass pod nestled amidst the scenery—giving you front-row seats to the stars and the chance to see the aurora without even stepping outside.
Northern Lights Travel Ideas & Tips
The 10 Best Place to See the Northern Lights in and around Trondheim
To see the northern lights, it is best to travel north, and in Trondheim there are several places where the conditions are just right.
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What you need to know before you go to Norway
Norway is a place of truly striking natural beauty, no matter the season. In summer, the rolling green hills gleam like emeralds while, in winter, the fjords have a stark, rugged charm.
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10 Most Amazing Landscapes in Iceland
A vacation in Iceland often includes a scenic drive on the Golden Circle route, where you can stop at stunning glacial lakes, black-sand beaches, and cascading waterfalls.
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Best Things to Do in Finland
Plenty of interesting destinations and quintessential experiences await travellers across Finland, ranging from public saunas to street culture and from national parks to highlights of contemporary art.
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