From North America to Asia: 12 best places to see the northern lights

The Aurora Borealis is a phenomenon that occurs in the upper atmosphere under the influence of streams of charged particles that the planet's magnetic field directs to the poles. This amazing natural spectacle is fascinating and makes travellers from all over the world set off on a journey to see such beauty with their own eyes.

Have you always wanted to see the aurora borealis, but don't know where to go? Here is a selection of the 12 best tourist destinations for watching the northern lights from TripZilla.

It should be noted that the best time to watch the northern lights is, has been, and will be the winter season. As a rule, the best time is considered to be from late September to early April. That's when the duration of the darkness of the polar nights provides ideal conditions for observing the aurora borealis. And to be 100% sure, follow the forecasts of Aurora and avoid travelling to destinations with more light.

Alaska

This largest and northernmost state of the United States is commonly called the "Last Frontier". It is here that you can see the stunningly beautiful aurora borealis and enjoy winter activities. You can do it in such cities as Fairbanks, Coldfoot, Wiseman, Utqiagvik and Deadhorse.

Greenland

This country of glaciers and fjords is located mainly within the Arctic Circle. That is why it is a classic place to watch the aurora. To see this natural wonder, it is better to go to the villages of Sisimiut and Ilulissat. It is recommended to come here from late August to early April and in winter.

Canada

To see the aurora borealis in Canada, it is recommended to come to the Yukon or Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. Tourists can stay at the Whitehorse Lodge and soak in the Tahini Hot Springs.

Minnesota

The land of 10,000 lakes and incredible light. In Minnesota, you can watch the unique spectacle of the bright nighttime aurora borealis, which is reflected in the endless lakes along the forests. To see the lights, you should visit Cook County on Lake Superior or central and southern Minnesota, such as Park Rapids, St. Cloud, Stillwater, Lake City, Mankato, and Rochester.

Maine

This state offers tourists an acquaintance with tranquil nature, with a wide coastline and dense forests. It's not hard to find an area with a clear sky that offers a variety of bright flashes and twinkling stars.

Norway

You can see an optical phenomenon in the Norwegian sky from the Lofoten Islands to Cape Nordkap and beyond. It has everything for fans of classic winter tourism and an interesting culture to see. You can see the northern lights in the following places: Hammerfest, Tana Bru, Vardø, Alta and Svalbard.

Sweden

Here you can watch the undulating aurora borealis. In general, the lights can be seen all over the country, but the best view is from the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park. Here you can ride a cable car, sit in a cafe and buy a souvenir.

Iceland

The weather here can be unpredictable, but the aurora borealis is truly amazing. To see more, it's best to drive 15 minutes from the capital Reykjavik to Álftanes. It is here that a fabulous view of the lights over the bay opens up.

Scotland

In Scotland, the aurora borealis is called Mirrie Dancers and you can see them if you travel north to the Scottish Highlands or Shetland Islands. Due to the special landscape and rocky terrain, the views and the view of the northern lights are even more stunning.

Finland

Although winter is the most popular season in Finland, it is better to go here in the fall and spring seasons, namely between August and April, for the most vivid northern lights. If you go to Finnish Lapland, be sure to visit such national parks as Pallas-Yllästunturi and Urho Kekkonen. Here you can stay in a glass igloo or cottage and go reindeer sledding or snowmobiling.

China

The city of Mohe in Heilongjiang Province is located at the highest latitude in China. It is here that the Beiji Village, where you can see the northern lights with dark pink flashes and green hues, is located. In addition, there is an amazing birch and deer park called Evenki.

Japan

It's quite expected, but to see the celestial optical phenomenon in Japan, tourists are recommended to visit Hokkaido. In addition, it is here, in Shiretoko and on the island of Rishiri, that you can look at the snowy landscape, try some winter sports and enjoy relaxing in the local hot springs.