10 best places to see the northern lights in 2023

Do magical worlds come to life in your imagination at the mention of the northern lights? Unfortunately, in our country it is impossible to catch the northern lights, which offer a unique experience of watching the dance of lights, diving into completely different dreams, escaping from the reality of the world and sailing towards completely new horizons. We need to deviate our course a little “north”.

The aurora borealis, also known by various names such as the aurora borealis, aurora borealis, or solar wind, is an atmospheric phenomenon where waves of green, purple, and red light dance across the sky. And without a doubt, it is breathtaking! It is important to consider several factors in order to best capture this dance of light, which captivates all who see it and makes it hard to describe the feelings it evokes. Three main indicators are known to predict where and when the northern lights will be seen, that is, to monitor the aurora: Kp-index (Kp Index), ovation auroral (auroral rain) and solar rotation. The KP index is the most common way to predict the northern lights and is known as the planetary K-index. This is a simple scale used to measure geomagnetic activity, which is directly related to the visibility of the aurora borealis and thus a higher chance of seeing the aurora at higher latitudes. The Ovation Auroral is provided by the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center and displays a map of the northern lights forecast. Another value to consider when evaluating the aurora is the rotation of the sun, because it is the sun that creates the aurora. The northern rays, formed as a result of the collision of charged particles of the Sun with gaseous oxygen and nitrogen on Earth, differ depending on how far from the Earth this collision occurs.

According to travel experts, based on all these indicators, there are several ways to increase the chances of seeing the northern lights. This is planning a trip in September-April, observing the time of the new moon and crescent, avoiding the city and light pollution. So, where to go, how to prepare for the northern lights? In the coming days, we will provide you with a detailed guide to prepare for the Northern Lights. But if you’re looking to figure out your itinerary and perhaps prepare your plane ticket in advance, you can take note of these 10 points shared by kiwi.com’s travel experts. Here are 10 best places to catch the Northern Lights in 2023…

You can explore the routes by scrolling through our gallery using the arrow keys.

Revontuli (Finland)Located about 15 minutes from the Hankasalmi Observatory, Revontuli is also known for its classic Finnish saunas and spas. The city, which is also known for its guesthouses, where you can comfortably stay while watching the unique northern lights, is the most popular choice for travelers. (Image: revontuli.fi)

Nellim (Finland)A lovely village where you can see the northern lights from the frozen shores of Lake Inari, Nellim is also a classic resort town. You can experience Finnish culture in a unique way by watching the Northern Lights in Nellim, where there are many local and foreign tourists. (Image: uniqhotels)

Tromsø (Norway)Tromsø, a beautiful port city in Norway, captivates with its beautiful nature as well as the best view of the Northern Lights. Travel experts recommend going on a boat trip to catch the best view. How about pointing the boats towards the northern lights instead of against the moonlight this time? (Image: opening)

Alta (Norway)Surrounded by mountains, forests and tundra (Arctic steppe), Alta is one of the most popular places in Norway to see the Northern Lights. You can turn your itinerary to Alta to enjoy the unique nature and the dance of the breathtaking lights. It is also known that the local scenery is a source of inspiration for many architectures in the region, especially for the Northern Lights Cathedral. (Image: who’s who)

Abisko (Sweden)Described by many travelers as a magical place, Abisko is Sweden’s famous site for the northern lights dance. Home to the world-famous Aurora Sky Observatory, Abisko is the best address for Sweden’s unparalleled celebration of light. (Image: discover the world)

Kiruna (Sweden)Sweden’s northernmost city, Kiruna, is a luxury campsite for those who love the Northern Lights. If you’re dreaming of a comfortable stay that doubles your enjoyment amid the breathtaking view of the lights, Kiruna might be your itinerary. (Image: Swedish Northern Lights)

Sandgerdi (Iceland)Sandgerdi is a picturesque fishing village on a peninsula in southwestern Iceland. It could be a unique choice to open the door to the magical world of the Northern Lights. (Image: Expedition)

Lake Kleifarvatn (Iceland)About 30 minutes from Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, Lake Kleifarvatn can be your perfect choice if you want to see the Northern Lights in a secluded, quiet and uncrowded location. (Image: Icelandic magazine)

Yukon (Canada)The Yukon, which welcomes thousands of local and international tourists every year and is one of the first places that come to mind when seeing the Northern Lights in Canada, manages to enchant those who see it with its unique light. (Image credit: tieronetravel)

Northwest Territories (Canada)You can watch the Northern Lights in a unique natural landscape surrounded by mountains, lakes, forests and tundra in a settlement called the Northwest Region of Canada and spread over a vast territory. You can turn your itinerary to these points in 2023 for an unforgettable experience and be enchanted by the dance of lights. (Image: Canada sights)