Aurora borealis or the northern lights are one of the most magical sights of our planet. A dance of colorful lights in the sky, created as a result of the Earth's magnetic field and solar particles.
Levi, Finland
Best time to visit: Between September and March
While there's never a guarantee that you'll see the Northern Lights on your trip, visiting Finnish Lapland is your best bet. Here, the aurora borealis dances across the night sky 200 nights a year – or at least every other night, on a clear sky. Traditional ways to see the lights in Lapland are snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding or snowmobiling. Several luxury purpose-built glass igloos and luxury suites have also been built where visitors can watch the magical light from the comfort of their own bed.
Jokulsarlon, Iceland
Best time to visit: Between September and March
Jokulsarlon is a lake on the south coast of Iceland and is the perfect place to see the Northern Lights. Far from Iceland's otherwise minimal light pollution, the dance of lights will be even more magical as they reflect off the surface of the lake. The winter months in Iceland are perfect for seeing the aurora borealis. However, as rain and snow are quite common at this time of year, check the weather forecast before your trip to avoid any disappointments.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Best time to visit: Between October and February
You would never think, but the Northern Lights can be seen from Scotland. The Northern Lights are called the "Mirrie Dancers" by the Scots, and can often be seen from the outskirts of Edinburgh. You can observe the dance of lights especially in autumn and winter, on cold, cloudless nights. If you can, head to the north of Scotland as this increases your chances of seeing the northern lights as light pollution is minimal.
Tromsø, Norway
Best time to visit: Between September and April
Tromsø is one of the largest urban centers in the Arctic Circle, and it is there that you can experience a true polar night from mid-November to mid-January. At that time, you will only be able to admire the sun for a few short hours, which represents excellent conditions for observing the northern lights.
Abisko, Sweden
Best time to visit: Between November and March
Abisko is a small village in Sweden, located north of the Arctic Circle. The Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park, which is surrounded by mountains and generally clear skies, offers the best opportunities to view the lights. During the day you can admire the beautiful mountains and Lake Torneträsk, and at night you can admire the dance of lights that will remain in your memory for all eternity. Nearby is also the famous ICEHOTEL, which is entirely made of ice.
