If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to witness the sky itself come alive with color, the Northern Lights should be at the top of your travel list.
It’s the sort of experience that makes you feel like you’ve entered a new world—one where the heavens have decided to show off just for you.
But, here’s the catch: you’ve got to be in the right place at the right time, and that’s where noctourism comes in.
If you’re tired of tourist crowds and fancy cocktails by the pool, these seven spots will give you something far more spectacular: nature’s very own light show.
1. Tromsø, Norway
Welcome to Tromsø, where the only thing that competes with the Northern Lights is the sense of adventure in the air.
Located above the Arctic Circle, this town is a haven for anyone looking to tick off their nocturnal travel bucket list. The lights? Oh, they’re spectacular—visible between September and April, but expect a real show if you’re there during the darkest months.
Plus, Tromsø’s nightlife isn’t half bad either. If you can tear yourself away from staring at the sky, you’ll find cozy pubs and hearty food waiting to warm you up. But let’s be honest, it’s the lights that’ll steal the show.
For more info visit the official site here>>
2. Abisko, Sweden
Abisko is that tiny, almost secretive village that doesn’t shout about its beauty but quietly makes you fall in love with it anyway.
Known for its “Aurora Sky Station,” which is exactly what it sounds like, Abisko offers an almost guaranteed view of the Northern Lights.
The catch? It’s a bit remote—so forget about city hustle and bustle. Instead, think about the peace of the Swedish Lapland, the sound of snow crunching underfoot, and of course, the breathtaking light show above you.
Abisko isn’t just for those who want a great view of the aurora; it’s for those who want a break from everything else, with a dash of adventure thrown in.
For more info visit the official site here>>
3. Reykjavik, Iceland
Yes, Reykjavik is cool. In fact, it’s cooler than your most fashionable friend’s winter wardrobe.
But beyond the hipster coffee shops and the quirky Icelandic culture, the Northern Lights here are just next-level. You’ll need to get away from the city lights to really catch the show, so book a Northern Lights tour to head into the wilds of Iceland.
If you time it right, you’ll be wrapped in warm layers, gazing at skies that explode with color while your breath hangs in the icy air.
Oh, and when you’re done? You can always unwind in the Blue Lagoon’s steaming waters—because, yes, Iceland just knows how to mix hot and cold in all the right ways.
For more info visit the official site here>>
4. Fairbanks, Alaska
Alaska—because why not add a bit of cold and rugged beauty to your Northern Lights adventure?
Fairbanks is one of those places where the magic happens in the sky. Located right under the “Aurora Oval” (don’t worry, I didn’t make that up), Fairbanks gives you a front-row seat to some of the most consistent and jaw-dropping Northern Lights displays in the world.
Think frozen lakes, snow-covered trees, and the faint sound of wilderness around you. You’ll find yourself asking why on earth you’d ever go to a warm beach resort when you could have this.
For more info visit the official site here>>
5. Yellowknife, Canada
Yellowknife is the kind of place that doesn’t just show you the Northern Lights; it makes you feel like you’re part of them.
Situated directly under the Aurora Belt, this is one of the best spots to witness this natural phenomenon, and it’s only getting more popular as the whole noctourism trend picks up.
After you’re done marveling at the skies, explore the city’s cozy atmosphere or join a tour that takes you right to the heart of the wilderness. You’ll likely have the entire night sky to yourself, and it’s hard not to feel a little smug about it.
For more info visit the official site here>>
6. Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi is what happens when Christmas meets the Northern Lights, and the result is something magical.
Located in Finland’s Lapland, it’s the official home of Santa Claus (yes, really). But once you get past the reindeer and festive décor, you’ll find that this charming town is the perfect base for Aurora hunters.
The combination of glass igloos and snow-covered scenery makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a living winter postcard. Plus, if you’re lucky enough to catch the lights, you’ll never want to leave. Rovaniemi is where romance and adventure collide in the best possible way.
For more info visit the official site here>>
7. Kiruna, Sweden
Kiruna is one of those places that’s just… beautifully remote. Not that you’ll mind much when the Northern Lights are putting on a show above you.
It’s perfect for those who want to get away from the usual tourist spots and really experience the magic of nature at its finest. The town itself might be small, but it’s full of charm, and its location in Swedish Lapland gives you an unparalleled chance to view the Aurora.
With endless snowy vistas and pristine, unspoiled skies, Kiruna has everything you need for the ultimate Northern Lights experience.
For more info visit the official site here>>
Final Words
Right, that’s your Northern Lights itinerary sorted. You’ve got a mix of adventure, stunning landscapes, and, of course, a light show that could make a stadium concert look like a power outage.
These places are the epitome of noctourism—a growing trend that sees travelers venturing out under the night sky for experiences that make you forget what daylight even looks like.
And let’s face it, who needs the sun when you’ve got the entire cosmos putting on a performance for you? Just pack a warm jacket, leave the sunscreen at home, and get ready to marvel at the world’s most natural light show. You’ll thank me later.