Best Places to See the Northern Lights in November: 1 Minute to Discover Stunning Aurora Spots

November is an excellent month for aurora hunters, as the long, dark nights across the northern hemisphere offer prime opportunities to witness the mystical northern lights. The Aurora Borealis dances vividly in polar regions, painting the skies with green, pink, and violet swirls. As an interior designer, I always encourage travelers to seek out inspiring natural spectacles—after all, both spaces and landscapes have a profound impact on our sense of awe and creativity. Here’s a guide to the best destinations for seeing the northern lights in November, along with design-inspired tips to make your trip unforgettable.

1. Tromsø, Norway: Often called the gateway to the Arctic, Tromsø is one of the most reliable places for viewing the northern lights in November. The city’s combination of Arctic landscapes and Scandinavian design hotels creates a cozy launchpad for night tours.
2. Reykjavik & Icelandic Countryside: Iceland’s winter darkness starts early, and with vast open landscapes and minimal light pollution just outside Reykjavik, November is ideal for aurora sightings. Consider staying in glass-roofed cabins that make the most of both the lights and Icelandic minimalism.
3. Abisko, Sweden: Renowned for having clear skies thanks to its microclimate, Abisko’s Aurora Sky Station is a design marvel perched in the wilderness, perfect for late-fall aurora hunting.
4. Rovaniemi, Finland: The capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi offers not only the chance to see the northern lights but also an immersion in contemporary Finnish design within nature-inspired igloo hotels.
5. Yellowknife, Canada: This remote spot in the Northwest Territories is a premier North American aurora destination. Indigenous design influences in local lodges offer a unique, culturally relevant experience.

One design tip for maximizing your aurora experience: choose accommodations with panoramic glass windows or even dedicated viewing platforms. As a designer, I’m constantly inspired by how architecture interacts with the environment. If you’re planning to document your trip or redecorate based on your travel memories, exploring local styles—even on vacation—can inform your own interior design choices back home.

Tips 1:

Opt for warm, layered clothing in natural materials—think Scandinavian wool throws and minimalist outdoor gear. Not only does this embody good design, but it also keeps you comfortable during long, chilly nights of sky gazing. And don’t forget to research if your destination offers design-forward amenities, such as glass igloos, sauna pods, or curated northern lights viewing areas.

FAQ

Q: What is the best time of night to see the northern lights in November?

A: The best viewing times are typically between 10 PM and 2 AM, though the aurora can be visible anytime during dark, clear nights.

Q: Which countries are best for seeing the northern lights in November?

A: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Canada (especially northern regions) are top choices.

Q: Do I need to join a tour, or can I view the lights on my own?

A: While tours can take you to optimal viewing locations, it’s possible to see the aurora independently if you plan well and stay somewhere away from city lights.

Q: Are there design-inspired hotels for viewing the northern lights?

A: Yes! Many destinations offer architecturally unique hotels and cabins with large windows, glass ceilings, or even igloo-style accommodations for ideal viewing.

Q: How can I photograph the aurora effectively?

A: Use a tripod, set your camera to a high ISO and slow shutter speed, and avoid light pollution for the best results when capturing the northern lights.