If you’re planning a trip to Finland, you may be wondering: which city offers the best chance to see the Northern Lights?
In this article, we’ll compare 7 of Finland’s most popular aurora spots, introducing the best locations depending on your goals—whether it’s “Aurora above all!” or “I want to combine winter activities too!”.
- The 7 best aurora viewing spots in Finland
- Seasonal and accessibility highlights
- Tips for choosing the right destination, even for first-timers
If you’ve ever thought, “Which town should I go to for the best aurora experience?”, this guide will help you decide.
We’ll cover everything from how to get there, the climate, local attractions, to recommended hotels—so you can plan your Northern Lights adventure with confidence!
- Finland as Part of the Aurora Belt
- Aurora Viewing in Finnish Lapland
- Kilpisjärvi – Finland’s Northernmost Wilderness
- Inari – Silence and Sámi Culture
- Saariselkä – Classic Resort for Aurora & Activities
- Muonio – A Hidden Gem with the World’s Cleanest Air
- Levi – Finland’s Largest Ski Resort
- Luosto – Quiet Village with an Amethyst Mine
- Rovaniemi – Gateway to Lapland
- Aurora Spots in Finland – Overview
- Complete Aurora Borealis Guide
Finland as Part of the Aurora Belt
The Northern Lights are most visible in the high-latitude region known as the Aurora Belt.
In the Northern Hemisphere, this belt typically spans 65°–72° north latitude, covering areas such as northern Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Norway, northern Sweden, and of course, northern Finland.
👉 This means Finland lies squarely within the auroral zone, making it one of the best countries in the world to witness this natural phenomenon.
But within Finland, where exactly should you go? Let’s dive into the top aurora destinations in Finnish Lapland.
Aurora Viewing in Finnish Lapland
In Finnish Lapland, the aurora season runs from September to early April.
As a rule of thumb, the further north you go, the better your chances of seeing strong auroras in Finland.
Here are the 7 representative spots (north to south):
| Destination (Latitude) | Highlights | Recommended Hotels |
| Kilpisjärvi (69.0°N) | ・Finland’s northernmost wilderness ・75% aurora probability ▼Click to jump | ・Santa’s Hotel Rakka ・Korppi mökki |
| Inari (68.9°N) | ・Lakeside village ・Sámi cultural center ▼Click to jump | ・Hotel Inari ・Holiday Village Inari |
| Saariselkä (68.4°N) | ・Classic resort town ・Full of winter activities ▼Click to jump | ・Star Arctic Hotel ・Holiday Club Saariselkä |
| Muonio (68.0°N) | ・Cleanest air in the world ・Hidden gem ▼Click to jump | ・Tunturilapin Tuvat ・Lapland Hotel Pallas |
| Levi (67.8°N) | ・Popular ski resort ・Easy access ▼Click to jump | ・Levi Aurora Sky ・Levi hotel Spa |
| Luosto (67.2°N) | ・Amethyst mine ・Quiet nature village ▼Click to jump | ・Lapland Hotels Luostotunturi ・Santa’s Hotel Aurora & Igloos |
| Rovaniemi (66.5°N) | ・Gateway to Lapland ・Santa Claus Village ▼Click to jump | ・Arctic TreeHouse Hotel ・Arctic Apartment with Sauna |
Now, let’s look at each location in more detail!
Kilpisjärvi – Finland’s Northernmost Wilderness
Kilpisjärvi, located at the very top of Finland near the borders with Norway and Sweden, is the ultimate frontier village.
✨ Why visit?
The Finnish Meteorological Institute reports that on clear nights, the chance of seeing auroras here is an astonishing 75%—one of the highest in Finland.
Access
- Helsinki → Kittilä (flight, ~1.5 hrs)
- Kittilä → Kilpisjärvi (bus, ~4.5 hrs)
It’s not the easiest place to reach, but that remoteness enhances its “end of the world” atmosphere.
Weather
| Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | |
| Max Temperature | 7℃ （45°F） | -1℃ （30°F） | -5℃ （23°F） | -8℃ （18°F） | -10℃ （14°F） | -9℃ （16°F） | -6℃ （21°F） | -2℃ （28°F） |
| Min Temperature | 2℃ （36°F） | -5℃ （23°F） | -10℃ （14°F） | -13℃ （9°F） | -16℃ （3°F） | -16℃ （3°F） | -13℃ （9°F） | -9℃ （16°F） |
| Sunrise | 5:46 | 7:41 | 9:05 | 10:52 | 10:11 | 8:11 | 6:07 | 4:42 |
| Sunset | 19:14 | 16:57 | 13:34 | 11:50 | 13:27 | 15:31 | 17:40 | 20:33 |
| Daytime hours | 13:28 | 9:16 | 4:29 | 0:58 | 3:16 | 7:20 | 11:33 | 15:51 |
| Cloudiness | 74.5% | 74.7% | 78.0% | 80.4% | 77.3% | 76.8% | 76.1% | 69.3% |
- Winters can drop below −30°C / −22℉.
- Harsh but with minimal light pollution, offering some of the clearest aurora skies in Finland.
Aurora Travel Tips
- Extremely high aurora probability
- Border trip: visit the Three-Country Cairn where Finland, Sweden, and Norway meet
- Unique Arctic landscapes beyond the treeline
Hotels
- Santa’s Hotel Rakka – brand new (2023), with aurora views from your window
▶︎Book on Agoda
- Korppi Mökki – apartment-style stay with kitchen and nearby supermarket
▶︎Book on Agoda
Inari – Silence and Sámi Culture
Inari is a quiet lakeside village and the cultural heart of the Sámi people.
✨ Why visit?
- The auroras can sometimes reflect on Lake Inari, especially in autumn.
- Less touristy, ideal for peaceful aurora viewing.
Access
- Helsinki → Ivalo (flight, ~1.5 hrs)
- Ivalo → Inari (bus or car, ~40 mins)
Weather
| Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | |
| Max Temperature | 10℃ （50°F） | 1℃ （34°F） | -5℃ （23°F） | -8℃ （18°F） | -10℃ （14°F） | -9℃ （16°F） | -5℃ （23°F） | 0℃ （32°F） |
| Min Temperature | 4℃ (39°F) | -3℃ (27°F) | -10℃ (14°F) | -14℃ (7°F) | -17℃ (1°F) | -16℃ (3°F) | -12℃ (10°F) | -6℃ (21°F) |
| Sunrise | 6:22 | 8:16 | 9:37 | 11:22 | 10:45 | 8:45 | 6:42 | 5:18 |
| Sunset | 19:49 | 17:33 | 14:12 | 12:31 | 14:02 | 16:07 | 18:15 | 21:07 |
| Daytime hours | 13:27 | 9:17 | 4:35 | 1:09 | 3:17 | 7:22 | 11:33 | 15:49 |
| Cloudiness | 71.4% | 78.0% | 76.3% | 78.6% | 78.5% | 76.0% | 70.5% | 70.3% |
- Winter temps: −15°C to −30°C（5°F to -22°F）
- Open surroundings make it easier to spot auroras through cloud gaps
Aurora Travel Tips
- “Aurora × Lake reflection” possible in autumn
- Learn Sámi culture at the Siida Museum
- Quiet environment, perfect for slow travel
Hotels
- Hotel Inari – right by the lake, with aurora views from the rooms
▶︎Book on Agoda
- Holiday Village Inari – cozy lodges with sauna and restaurant
▶︎Book on Agoda
Saariselkä – Classic Resort for Aurora & Activities
Saariselkä is one of Lapland’s most famous resorts, combining aurora hunting with winter activities.
✨ Why visit?
Dog sledding, snowmobiling, skiing—all with the bonus of aurora watching!
Access
- Helsinki → Ivalo (flight, ~1.5 hrs)
- Ivalo → Saariselkä (bus, ~30 mins)
Weather
| Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | |
| Max Temperature | 10℃ （50°F） | 1℃ （34°F） | -5℃ （23°F） | -8℃ （18°F） | -11℃ （12°F） | -10℃ （14°F） | -5℃ （23°F） | 0℃ （34°F） |
| Min Temperature | 4℃ (39°F) | -3℃ (27°F) | -10℃ (14°F) | -14℃ (7°F) | -17℃ (1°F) | -16℃ (3°F) | -12℃ (10°F) | -6℃ (21°F) |
| Sunrise | 6:21 | 8:12 | 9:26 | 11:12 | 10:39 | 8:39 | 6:40 | 5:19 |
| Sunset | 19:46 | 17:33 | 14:20 | 12:40 | 19:46 | 17:33 | 14:20 | 12:40 |
| Daytime hours | 13:25 | 9:21 | 4:54 | 1:28 | 3:25 | 7:30 | 11:34 | 15:43 |
| Cloudiness | 71.8% | 79.5% | 77.5% | 79.8% | 79.4% | 76.7% | 71.7% | 71.3% |
- Winter temps: −15°C to −25°C
- Plenty of chances to catch the Northern Lights during your stay
Aurora Travel Tips
- Best for first-time visitors
- Full resort infrastructure—restaurants, activities, and tours
- Perfect for families and group travelers
Hotels
- Star Arctic Hotel – famous glass cabins for viewing auroras from your bed
▶︎Book on Agoda
- Holiday Club Saariselkä – apartment-style stays for longer visits
▶︎Book on Agoda
Muonio – A Hidden Gem with the World’s Cleanest Air
Muonio, near the Swedish border, is a little-known destination but offers pristine nature and tranquility.
✨ Why visit?
According to Visit Finland, Muonio is home to the cleanest air in the world—perfect conditions for sharp aurora displays.
Access
- Helsinki → Kittilä (flight, ~1.5 hrs)
- Kittilä → Muonio (car or bus, ~1 hr)
Best reached by rental car.
Weather
| Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | |
| Max Temperature | 10℃ （50°F） | 1℃ （34°F） | -5℃ （23°F） | -8℃ （18°F） | -11℃ （12°F） | -10℃ （14°F） | -5℃ （23°F） | 0℃ （32°F） |
| Min Temperature | 4℃ (39°F) | −３℃ (27°F) | -10℃ (14°F) | -14℃ (7°F) | -17℃ (1°F) | -16℃ (3°F) | -13℃ (9°F) | -7℃ (19°F) |
| Sunrise | 6:37 | 8:25 | 9:33 | 11:19 | 10:55 | 8:51 | 6:55 | 5:37 |
| Sunset | 20:00 | 17:50 | 14:43 | 13:07 | 14:16 | 16:28 | 18:29 | 21:15 |
| Daytime hours | 13:23 | 9:25 | 5:10 | 1:48 | 3:21 | 7:37 | 11:34 | 15:38 |
| Cloudiness | 71.6% | 77.1% | 76.3% | 79.3% | 78.2% | 76.3% | 70.5% | 67.2% |
- Winter temps: around −20°C
- Clear skies are relatively frequent, boosting aurora chances
Aurora Travel Tips
- Quiet, less crowded
- Great for “live like a local” stays
- Surrounded by forests and lakes
Hotels
- Tunturilapin Tuvat – cabins deep in the forest, peaceful and scenic
▶︎Book on Agoda
- Lapland Hotels Pallas – resort with ski and snowmobile activities
▶︎Book on Agoda
Levi – Finland’s Largest Ski Resort
Levi is the country’s most popular ski resort and one of the easiest aurora destinations.
✨ Why visit?
Perfect for combining skiing, nightlife, and aurora hunting.
Access
- Helsinki → Kittilä (flight, ~1.5 hrs)
- Kittilä → Levi (bus, 15–20 mins)
Weather
| Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | |
| Max Temperature | 10℃ （50°F） | 1℃ （34°F） | -5℃ （23°F） | -7℃ （19°F） | -11℃ （12°F） | -9℃ （16°F） | -4℃ （25°F） | 0℃ （32°F） |
| Min Temperature | 4℃ (39°F) | -3℃ (27°F) | -10℃ (14°F) | -14℃ (7°F) | -17℃ (1°F) | -16℃ (3°F) | -13℃ (9°F) | -7℃ (19°F) |
| Sunrise | 6:33 | 8:20 | 9:27 | 11:14 | 10:48 | 8:45 | 6:50 | 5:33 |
| Sunset | 19:45 | 17:47 | 14:41 | 13:03 | 14:13 | 16:25 | 18:25 | 21:09 |
| Daytime hours | 13:12 | 9:27 | 5:14 | 1:49 | 3:25 | 7:40 | 11:35 | 15:36 |
| Cloudiness | 71.5% | 78.0% | 77.3% | 79.8% | 78.5% | 76.3% | 70.7% | 68.2% |
- Winter temps: −10°C to −25°C
- Aurora probability: about 50% on clear nights
Aurora Travel Tips
- Aurora viewing is best outside the town center (less light pollution)
- Ideal for short trips due to excellent access
Hotels
- Levi Aurora Sky – luxury glass-roof rooms
▶︎Book on Agoda
- Levi Hotel Spa – family-friendly with spa facilities
▶︎Book on Agoda
Luosto – Quiet Village with an Amethyst Mine
Luosto is a small, peaceful village famous for its active amethyst mine—the only one in Europe still operating.
✨ Why visit?
Aurora hunting + gem-digging adventure!
Access
- Helsinki → Rovaniemi (flight, ~1.5 hrs)
- Rovaniemi → Luosto (bus, ~1.5 hrs)
Weather
| Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | |
| Max Temperature | 11℃ （52°F） | 2℃ （36°F） | -4℃ （25°F） | -7℃ （19°F） | -11℃ （12°F） | -9℃ （16°F） | -4℃ （25°F） | 0℃ （32°F） |
| Min Temperature | 5℃ (41°F) | -2℃ (28°F) | -9℃ (16°F) | -14℃ (7°F) | -17℃ (1°F) | -16℃ (3°F) | -12℃ (10°F) | -6℃ (21°F) |
| Sunrise | 6:26 | 8:09 | 9:09 | 11:09 | 10:26 | 8:32 | 6:41 | 5:29 |
| Sunset | 19:46 | 17:41 | 14:42 | 13:03 | 14:16 | 16:21 | 18:17 | 20:57 |
| Daytime hours | 13:20 | 9:32 | 5:33 | 1:54 | 3:50 | 7:49 | 11:36 | 15:28 |
| Cloudiness | 70.4% | 79.1% | 78.7% | 81.2% | 79.3% | 77.1% | 71.6% | 70.8% |
- Winter temps: −10°C to −20°C
- Long snowy season, fewer crowds than Levi or Saariselkä
Aurora Travel Tips
- Amethyst mine tours available even in winter
- Peaceful, nature-rich surroundings
Hotels
- Lapland Hotels Luostotunturi – spa resort near ski slopes
▶︎Book on Agoda
- Santa’s Hotel Aurora & Igloos – glass igloo experience with aurora views
▶︎Book on Agoda
Rovaniemi – Gateway to Lapland
Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is the most accessible aurora spot and home to the famous Santa Claus Village.
✨ Why visit?
- Easy access from Helsinki
- Perfect for combining Christmas magic and aurora hunting
Access
- Helsinki → Rovaniemi (flight, ~1.5 hrs, several flights daily)
Weather
| Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | |
| Max Temperature | 12℃ （54°F） | 3℃ （37°F） | -3℃ （27°F） | -6℃ （21°F） | -10℃ （14°F） | -8℃ （18°F） | -4℃ （25°F） | 2℃ （36°F） |
| Min Temperature | 5℃ (41°F) | -1℃ (30°F) | -7℃ (19°F) | -12℃ (10°F) | -16℃ (3°F) | -15℃ (5°F) | -11℃ (12°F) | -5℃ (23°F) |
| Sunrise | 6:32 | 8:11 | 9:05 | 10:49 | 10:17 | 8:32 | 6:46 | 5:37 |
| Sunset | 19:49 | 17:48 | 14:55 | 13:33 | 14:35 | 16:30 | 18:22 | 20:58 |
| Daytime hours | 13:17 | 9:37 | 5:50 | 2:44 | 4:18 | 7:58 | 11:36 | 15:21 |
| Cloudiness | 67.8% | 77.1% | 77.8% | 80.5% | 78.7% | 75.8% | 70.4% | 70.2% |
- Winter temps: −10°C to −20°C
- Aurora chances lower than further north, but still frequent
Aurora Travel Tips
- Convenient for short stays
- Mix of urban attractions and nature excursions
Hotels
- Arctic TreeHouse Hotel – luxury suites with floor-to-ceiling aurora views
▶︎Book on Agoda
- Arctic Apartment with own Sauna – cozy, affordable stay with Finnish-style sauna
▶︎Book on Agoda
Aurora Spots in Finland – Overview
Cloudiness Summary
The following table shows the average percentage of cloudy hours at seven aurora-viewing spots in Finland, from September to April.
From this data, we can estimate which locations tend to have clearer skies and therefore offer better chances to see the Northern Lights.
| ９月 | 10月 | 11月 | 12月 | １月 | ２月 | ３月 | ４月 | |
| Kilpisjärvi | 74.5% | 74.7% | 78.0% | 80.4% | 77.3% | 76.8% | 76.1% | 69.3% |
| Inari | 71.4% | 78.0% | 76.3% | 78.6% | 78.5% | 76.0% | 70.5% | 70.3% |
| Saariselkä | 71.8% | 79.5% | 77.5% | 79.8% | 79.4% | 76.7% | 71.7% | 71.3% |
| Muonio | 71.6% | 77.1% | 76.3% | 79.3% | 78.2% | 76.3% | 70.5% | 67.2% |
| Levi | 71.5% | 78.0% | 77.3% | 79.8% | 78.5% | 76.3% | 70.7% | 68.2% |
| Luosto | 70.4% | 79.1% | 78.7% | 81.2% | 79.2% | 77.1% | 71.6% | 70.8% |
| Rovaniemi | 67.8% | 77.1% | 77.8% | 80.5% | 78.7% | 75.8% | 70.4% | 70.2% |
Average cloudiness percentage (2010–2020). Source: wanderlog.com
Red = lowest value in the month / Blue = highest value in the month
👉 According to this data:
- Inari has relatively favorable conditions in winter.
- Rovaniemi tends to be better in autumn and spring.
- Muonio also shows relatively good potential for aurora hunting.
Keep in mind that these are average trends from 2010–2020, not guarantees for individual trips.
Comparison of Aurora Tourism Spots
The following table summarizes the main aurora-viewing towns in Finland, with features, conditions, and recommended accommodation.
| おすすめ スポット | 特徴 | 観測率 | 寒さ | 天候 | 泊まりたい宿 |
| Kilpisjärvi | Remote wilderness, Finland’s northern edge | ~75% | ❄️❄️❄️❄️ | ○ | ・Santa’s Hotel Rakka ・Korppi mökki |
| Inari | Lakeside village, Sámi cultural center | 50〜75%？ | ❄️❄️❄️❄️ | ◎ | ・Hotel Inari ・Holiday Village Inari |
| Saariselkä | Famous resort, full of winter activities | ~50% | ❄️❄️ | △ | ・Star Arctic Hotel ・Holiday Club Saariselkä |
| Muonio | “Cleanest air in the world,” hidden gem | 50%+ | ❄️❄️❄️ | ◎ | ・Tunturilapin Tuvat ・Lapland Hotel Pallas |
| Levi | Popular ski resort, great access | ~50% | ❄️❄️❄️ | ○ | ・Levi Aurora Sky ・Levi hotel Spa |
| Luosto | Surrounded by nature, Amethyst mine nearby | 40〜50% | ❄️❄️ | △ | ・Lapland Hotels Luostotunturi ・Santa’s Hotel Aurora & Igloos |
| Rovaniemi | Gateway to Lapland, Santa Claus Village | 40% | ❄️❄️ | ◎ | ・Arctic TreeHouse Hotel ・Arctic Apartment with Sauna |
Best Spots for First-Time Visitors
If your main goal is to maximize aurora chances, with relatively clear skies and easy access, Inari is the top recommendation.
For families, beginners, or those who want to combine aurora hunting with fun winter activities (dog sledding, snowshoeing, etc.), Saariselkä is a great choice.
While Kilpisjärvi has the highest statistical aurora rate (~75%), it is very remote. In practice, staying longer in more accessible towns often increases your real chances of seeing the lights.
👉 Use this guide to plan your aurora trip with confidence!
Quick Recommendations
- For the ultimate aurora experience → Go to Inari
- For winter tours and family activities → Choose Saariselkä
⚠️ Note: This article provides statistical information only. Aurora sightings are never guaranteed.
Complete Aurora Borealis Guide
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