Northern Lights Holidays

Enigmatic and ethereal, magical and mysterious: witnessing the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. See some of nature’s most majestic spectacles with a breathtaking trip to the frozen north. From glass igloo hotels to husky safaris, we've curated a hand-picked collection of Northern Lights holidays, complete with expert tips to help you in your hunt, from top viewing spots to essential packing advice. Start planning your extraordinary Northern Lights holidays with Secret Escapes today and secure an unforgettable winter getaway.

Where is the Best Place to See the Northern Lights?

Because they centre around the magnetic poles, the Northern (and Southern) Lights are most easily spotted in parts of the Northern Hemisphere closest to the Arctic Circle. Unless you’re a research scientist in the Antarctic, heading north offers your best chance of spotting the celestial dance. The top destinations within easy reach of the UK are undoubtedly Iceland, Finnish Lapland, and Norway—though Canada's Yukon, Greenland, and Alaska are also incredible options for Northern Lights breaks. You might get lucky in northern Scotland or the Peak District under rare, ideal conditions, but Arctic locations yield far higher success rates.

Minimising light pollution is essential: aim to be at least five miles away from the nearest town. To maximise your viewing potential across different destinations, explore our dedicated guides:

• Plan your trip with Your ultimate guide to Iceland.
• Compare Arctic spots with A guide to Northern Lights-spotting in Iceland, Lapland and beyond.
• Discover self-drive routes with Secret guide: Iceland’s Ring Road.

When is the Best Time for Northern Lights Breaks?

The optimal time to witness the Northern Lights in Northern Europe is during the winter months (from late September to early April), when dark Arctic nights replace the summer midnight sun. Clear skies, low winds, and zero precipitation create the best viewing conditions. Heading out on consecutive nights significantly increases your odds of catching a display.

Should You Choose an Organised Aurora Tour?

While you can occasionally spot the aurora from a glass igloo hotel or remote lodge, joining a dedicated guided tour gives you the highest chance of success. Expert guides track solar activity and cloud cover in real time to chase down clear skies. Tour options range from super-jeep safaris and snowmobile excursions to husky sledding and horseback rides, turning your search into an unforgettable Arctic adventure.

What Should You Pack for Your Getaway?

• Thermal Layers: Temperatures in Scandinavia, Lapland, and Iceland routinely drop between -5°C and -15°C. Pack thermal base layers, heavy parkas, insulated boots, gloves, scarves, and hand warmers.
• Camera Gear: A camera or smartphone with night mode and manual exposure settings is essential. Bring a sturdy tripod to keep your shot stable during long exposures.
• Warm Drinks & Patience: Pack a thermos with hot chocolate or tea to stay comfortable during nighttime watches.