Top Budget-Friendly Vacation Spots to Experience the Northernl lights
 |
| Photo courtesy of Lightscape / Unsplash. |
A recently released report has revealed where travelers can find the most affordable accommodations while experiencing the enchanting Northern Lights in 2025.
The Affordable Aurora Report, published by vacation rental company HomeToGo, highlights the top cities to visit for budget-friendly aurora viewing. Finland stands out as the most affordable country, with eight of its cities featured in the list of 30 destinations. Notably, Kemi in Finland has been named the cheapest place to witness the stunning aurora borealis. According to the report, the median price for a vacation rental booked through HomeToGo in Kemi is $101.97 per night for stays between January 10, 2025, and March 31, 2025.
Other Finnish destinations on the list include Luosto, Saariselkä, Ivalo, Muonio, Rovaniemi, Levi, and Kakslauttanen.
Norway also ranks as a top destination for viewing the Northern Lights without breaking the bank. The "Land of the Midnight Sun" had six cities featured on the list, with four of them landing in the top ten. Iceland, famous for its breathtaking light displays, had five cities on the list. The United States and Sweden each contributed four cities, while Canada had three.
To see the Northern Lights on a budget, travelers should:
- Travel Off-Peak (January-March) for lower prices.
- Opt for Vacation Rentals instead of hotels.
- Explore Lesser-Known Destinations for more affordable options.
- Look for Deals or discounts on longer stays.
- Stay Flexible with dates to increase chances of sightings.
- Bundle Activities to save on costs.
With these tips, travelers can enjoy the aurora without overspending.
In the U.S., the most affordable places for Northern Lights vacation rentals are mostly in Alaska. Denali, Fairbanks, Nome, and Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota) all made the list.
“The aurora borealis is expected to light up the night sky frequently and vividly throughout 2025 — and travelers are taking notice,” says HomeToGo. “Searches for Norway, Alaska, and Iceland have surged year-on-year by 102%, 81%, and 48%, respectively, as demand for top viewing spots grows.”