northern lights over fairbanks in alaska.

Northern Lights Trips & Vacations

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Book your perfect Northern Lights trip

Get a front-row seat for one of nature's greatest spectacles with a Northern Lights vacation package with Expedia. Aurora Borealis is an Arctic phenomenon caused by solar winds that illuminate the skies. This technicolor light show tops many a bucket list, but it’s far more than a good excuse for a selfie – it’s an epic demonstration of the scale and beauty of the cosmos. To witness these swathes of green, pink, and purple colors that seem to dance through the night sky, there’s plenty of choice available at Expedia. Popular winter destinations across the world’s high latitudes include the stark beauty of Yellowknife and Fairbanks Northern Lights vacations in Alaska to cultural Reykjavik Northern Lights vacations in Iceland and the snow-capped mountains of Tromso in Norway.  

At Expedia, we understand the allure of a package trip to the Northern Lights and offer a seamless experience tailored just for you. Let us enhance your journey by helping you select hotels and flights that suit your preferences. Customize your adventure further by adding car rental and dedicated Northern Lights tours for hassle-free, unforgettable moments. As the Northern Lights grace the skies predominantly from September to March, seize the opportunity during these months to witness this awe-inspiring display.

Explore top Northern Lights vacations

Athough solar winds are constant throughout the year, you should plan your Northern Lights Vacation between September and March for optimal aurora sightings. In Europe, prime months include December to February, with Norway, Iceland, and Finland vacation packages offering mesmerizing displays. Likewise, Alaska and Canada showcase the celestial wonders during the colder seasons with longer dark hours. Clear winter skies and extended darkness enhance visibility, with late evenings and early mornings providing the best viewing times. Escape city lights for an unobstructed spectacle overhead. Summer months in the Northern Hemisphere pose a challenge due to continuous daylight, making the Aurora Borealis less frequent.

Embark on an awe-inspiring Northern Lights journey in the Arctic Circle, including Norway, Iceland, Finland, and Sweden. Discover the enchanting landscapes of Tromso in Norway or witness the celestial dance above Yellowknife, Canada. The Arctic Circle's unique position enhances the visibility of the Aurora Borealis. Explore iconic destinations like Iceland's Thingvellir National Park and vacation packages in Fairbanks, Alaska. Optimal viewing requires venturing away from city lights and finding open spaces, ensuring an unforgettable Northern Lights vacation under the magical northern aurora lights.

FAQs: Planning your Northern Lights vacation

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?

Experience the magic of the Northern Lights between September and March, with peak visibility in December. Explore destinations like Norway, Iceland, and Alaska during these months for an enchanting aurora spectacle.

Can you see the Northern Lights in the summer?

Summer's continuous daylight makes Northern Lights sightings challenging. To witness the aurora's awe-inspiring dance, plan your trip between fall and early spring when darkness prevails in the Northern Hemisphere.

Where to go to see Northern Lights?

The best place to see the Northern Lights is in the Arctic Circle, at stunning destinations like Tromso, Norway, and Fairbanks, Alaska. Experience the kaleidoscope of colors in Canada, Iceland, and Finland for an unforgettable Northern Lights package vacation.

How do you get to the Northern Lights?

Reach Northern Lights destinations by flying into major airports like Tromso Airport in Norway or Keflavik International Airport in Iceland. Consider guided tours or renting a car for flexibility when exploring these magical locations.

How do the Northern Lights happen?

The Northern Lights result from solar particles colliding with Earth's magnetic field. This natural phenomenon releases energy in the form of captivating lights, creating the mesmerizing flares and flickers of the aurora borealis.

Where is the best place to see Northern Lights in the USA?

For an incredible Northern Lights experience, head to Fairbanks, Alaska. Its location within the auroral oval enhances your chances of witnessing the breathtaking display during the winter months.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

Visit Iceland between September and March to witness the Northern Lights. The winter months offer extended darkness, providing optimal conditions to enjoy the ethereal dance of the aurora borealis.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska?

Alaska's Northern Lights are best observed from late September to early April. Venture to Fairbanks for a front-row seat to this celestial display amid Alaska's pristine winter landscapes.

Where is the best place to see the Northern Lights in Alaska?

Choose Fairbanks, Alaska, for a remarkable Northern Lights experience. The city's northern location and minimal light pollution create an ideal environment to marvel at the captivating aurora borealis.

Where is the best place in Norway to see Northern Lights?

Discover Tromso, Norway, as a prime destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts. Positioned within the auroral oval, Tromso offers an excellent vantage point to witness the magical display during the winter months.

How to book a Northern Lights Vacation with Expedia?

Visit Expedia to book your dream Northern Lights Vacation. Explore customizable packages to Tromso, Yellowknife, and other enchanting destinations, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable aurora experience.

Northern Lights Travel Ideas & Tips

northern lights over resort in finland covered in snow

Why 2024 is the best time to see the Northern Lights

This year will see the most aurora activity for two decades—lighting up the skies where you’d least expect it. The next few years will provide a rare opportunity to marvel at it from several U.S. states where it usually can’t be seen—including southern California and Florida.

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northern lights in tromso

Northern Lights in Tromso, Norway Guide

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Tromsø offers much warmer watching than a lot of other aurora capitals. Plus, the polar nights between late November and late January will really max out your chances of seeing the sky’s hypnotic show...

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northern lights in iceland

How to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland has become the poster child for adventure travel thanks to its mind-bending landscapes: simmering volcanoes, immense glaciers and rainbow-colored mountains. But between September and early April, what happens in the sky above is just as dramatic...

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northern lights with silhouette of deer and tree

Top tips for photographing the Northern Lights

Award-winning photographer Tor-Ivar Næss shares his expert tips to elevate your shots of the spectacular night sky. Follow his five tips for photographing the aurora borealis on your own trip

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