Where to see the most beautiful northern lights in the world

2026 is a favorable year for observing the Northern Lights in many parts of the world due to high solar activity. Researchers at Saily have studied the best places to observe the aurora borealis and created a dedicated index. Several factors were taken into account: visibility (proximity to the nearest certified viewing location, light pollution levels, cloud cover), weather conditions (average temperature, precipitation, night length), and cost (hotel prices). Here are the top 3 best viewing spots:

The auroral zone is a ring-shaped region where the Northern and Southern Lights appear.

It surrounds Earth’s geomagnetic poles, generally located between 65° and 75° magnetic latitude.

Solar winds are channeled toward these geomagnetic poles and, when they collide with gases in the upper atmosphere, they create shimmering lights that dance across the sky.

Researchers at Saily analyzed popular locations within the auroral zone to determine which offer the best viewing conditions for the Northern Lights.

They considered visibility (proximity to the darkest night sky, light pollution levels, cloud cover), weather conditions (average temperature, precipitation, daylight hours), and affordability (average hotel room rates) to determine the best destination for viewing the Northern Lights.

1. Ilulissat, Greenland

First place doesn’t go to Scandinavia or Iceland, but to this isolated town on Greenland’s west coast.

Ilulissat lies at the heart of the auroral zone, at a high magnetic latitude, and offers some of the most frequent and intense auroral activity on the planet.

Its dry Arctic climate guarantees consistently clear winter skies, while the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Fjord, with its parade of ancient and massive icebergs, provides an unparalleled backdrop.

The best time to see them is from September to April, on dark, moonless nights, far from city lights.

2. Thingvellir National Park, Iceland

Iceland dominates the top of the list, with Thingvellir taking first place. Located about 45 minutes from Reykjavík, the national park offers dark skies and a stunning setting, including reflections on the lake: a photographer’s paradise.

Its inland location allows it to benefit from clearer conditions than coastal areas during Atlantic storms.

The best viewing conditions are during clear winter nights from September to March, with minimal moonlight.

3. Hvolsvöllur, Iceland

This small town in southern Iceland offers a quieter alternative to the capital, with significantly less light pollution and quick access to the countryside.

Its flat terrain provides expansive views, an advantage when the Northern Lights appear low in the sky.

The best conditions occur on cold, clear nights from September to March, especially after a geomagnetic storm warning.