Best Places to See the Northern Lights (and Where to Stay)

When it comes to ticking the Northern Lights off your bucket list, Europe’s far north is home to some truly legendary spots to witness the Aurora’s magic. Here’s a review of the best places to see the lights and our top picks for where to stay, all with Off the Map Travel’s expert guidance.

Swedish Lapland
Best for: Remote landscapes, Arctic culture & cosy lodges
Swedish Lapland boasts some of the darkest skies in Europe, meaning unforgettable Aurora sightings with minimal light pollution. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking wilderness, snow-covered forests and frozen rivers—a dream for anyone after a true Arctic adventure. Accommodation here is next-level:

• Aurora Safari Camp features heated tipi cabins or lapland cone rooms set right on the frozen Råne River.
• Arctic Bath is a floating spa hotel with luxurious cabins—imagine watching the Aurora while soaking in style.
• Arctic Retreat allows you to hide away in a luxury log cabin deep in the forest.
  With everything from boutique hotels to rustic cabins, there’s something for every sort of explorer.
  Find out more about Swedish Lapland experiences with Off the Map Travel, HERE.

Finnish Lapland
Best for: Bucket-list glass-roofed cabins & Santa magic
Finland is famous for its spectacular glass-roofed Aurora cabins, perfect for watching the lights without having to leave your bed. With easy access from Rovaniemi or Ivalo, it’s a winner for families and couples alike—especially if you fancy meeting Santa. Off the Map Travel highlights:

• Arctic Treehouse Hotel blends modern luxury, panoramic windows and private saunas perched high above the trees.
• Levi Northern Lights Aurora Cabins are luxury igloos made for late-night sittings under the stars.
• Apukka Resort is family-friendly with ice saunas and Aurora snow trains.
  Talk to the experts for help choosing the right spot.
  Find out more about Finnish Lapland stays and aurora experiences, HERE.

Northern Norway

Best for: Coastal drama, whale watching & fjord explorations
Norway’s north is legendary for sky-high Aurora activity and incredible scenic drama. Mix in whale watching, Sami culture and fjord cruises for a truly unique holiday. Try:

• Lyngen Lodge, a boutique mountain retreat that offers snowmobile safaris and photography tours.
• Malangen Resort for fjordside luxury just 90 minutes from Tromsø, with spectacular views and zero light pollution.
• Hamn i Senja, a remote island hideaway for active adventurers and lovers of peaceful Aurora moments.
  Browse Off the Map Travel’s Northern Norway accommodation, HERE.

Iceland

Best for: Volcanic backdrops & geo-thermal spa breaks
Iceland is ideal for quick escapes thanks to direct flights from Europe and North America. With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and geysers to discover, you’ll never run out of wow moments. Top stays include:

• Hotel Rangá, an Aurora-watching classic with its own observatory.
• Blue Lagoon Retreat, an award-winning luxury resort with an underground spa, Michelin-starred dining and a private lagoon.
  For more information about Aurora stays in Iceland, click HERE.

Greenland
Best for: Remote adventures & off-grid winter experiences
Greenland delivers a true Arctic wilderness vibe, complete with icy fjords, dog sledding and traditional Inuit culture. Standout accommodation includes:

• Hotel Arctic, the world’s northernmost 4-star hotel with jaw-dropping ice fjord views.
• Ilulissat Icefjord Lodge, a new eco-lodge perched on the edge of the ice—watch the icebergs float past your window.
  Learn more about these hotels and Greenland escapes, HERE.

From log cabins under the stars to luxury spas on the edge of the Arctic, these destinations are as much about the experience as they are about the breathtaking spectacle of the Northern Lights. To enquire about curated travel experiences and receive expert advice, get in touch with Off the Map Travel: https://www.offthemap.travel/contact/