Chasing the Northern Lights: A Guide to the Best Viewing Spots in 2024

Ciara McKeon • 18 January 2024

An Unforgettable Northern Lights Adventure

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a mesmerising natural phenomenon that has captivated humans for centuries. These spectacular lights dance across the night sky, painting it with vibrant hues of green, red, and purple. Witnessing this spectacle is a truly awe-inspiring experience that is sure to stay with you long after you return home.


The Northern Lights are most active during the equinoxes and solstices, which fall in March, September, June, and December. However, they can be seen all year round, with a peak season from late September to mid-April. During these months, the nights are long and dark, providing optimal viewing conditions.


If you're dreaming of chasing the Northern Lights in 2024, here are some of the best places in the world to do so:

Chasing the Northern Lights: A Guide to the Best Viewing Spots in 2024, Iceland - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

1. Iceland



Iceland is one of the most popular destinations for seeing the Northern Lights, and for good reason. The country's remote location and clear skies provide ideal conditions for viewing this spectacular phenomenon. In addition, Iceland's stunning landscapes, from glaciers and volcanoes to waterfalls and black sand beaches, make it a truly unforgettable destination.


Chasing the Northern Lights: A Guide to the Best Viewing Spots in 2024, Norway - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

2. Norway



Norway is another excellent choice for Northern Lights viewing. The country's northernmost regions, such as Tromsø and Lofoten, are particularly good spots to catch a glimpse of the aurora. Norway also offers a variety of other activities to enjoy, such as hiking, skiing, and whale watching.


Chasing the Northern Lights: A Guide to the Best Viewing Spots in 2024, Sweden - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

3. Sweden



Sweden's northernmost regions, such as Abisko and Kiruna, are also known for their amazing Northern Lights viewing conditions. Abisko National Park is home to the Aurora Sky Station, a mountaintop observatory that offers stunning views of the aurora.


Chasing the Northern Lights: A Guide to the Best Viewing Spots in 2024, Filand - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

4. Finland



Finland is another great option for Northern Lights viewing. The country's northernmost regions, such as Rovaniemi and Kakslauttanen in Lapland, are popular destinations for aurora hunters. Rovaniemi is the home of Santa Claus Village, while Kakslauttanen offers a unique experience of viewing the Northern Lights from glass igloos. Lapland's remoteness and high altitude provide excellent viewing conditions for the Northern Lights.


Chasing the Northern Lights: A Guide to the Best Viewing Spots in 2024, Alaska - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

5. Alaska



Alaska is the most northern state in the United States, and it offers some of the best Northern Lights viewing opportunities in the country. The Fairbanks area is a popular spot for aurora hunters, and the town of Kaktovik is known for its proximity to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, which provides excellent viewing conditions.


Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights

  • The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the equinoxes, which occur in September and March.
  • The Northern Lights are most active at night, so plan your trip accordingly.
  • Look for clear skies and minimal light pollution.
  • Use a Northern Lights forecasting app to check the aurora activity in your area.
  • Dress warmly, as it can get very cold in the Arctic.
  • Be patient and enjoy the experience!
  • Pack the right camera gear to ensure you capture the magic.


Chasing the Northern Lights is a bucket list experience for many people, and it's something that you'll never forget. With careful planning and a little luck, you can experience this magical phenomenon for yourself in 2024.

The Ultimate Malta travel guide: Top Attractions & Hidden Gems

by Kelly Collins • 1 April 2026
Malta is one of those places that completely catches you off guard, in the best ways imaginable. For such a tiny island nation, it packs more beauty, history and “wait, why does nobody talk about this?!” moments than seems fair. One minute you're wandering through golden stone streets that look straight out of a period drama, and the next you're floating in shockingly blue water, wondering why it isn't illegal for the sea to look that good. It’s the kind of destination where the big attractions blow your way, but the hidden corners are what quietly steal your heart This guide is here to walk you through Malta the way a fellow traveller would, with honest insight, friendly advice and all the info you need to make your trip effortless and unforgettable

Find Your Perfect Holiday Based on Your Personality

by Leonor Resende • 27 March 2026
Choosing a holiday is more than deciding on a place to visit, it’s choosing the version of yourself you want to step into for a little while. Some people come alive on high mountain trails, others find their joy floating in warm turquoise seas. Some feel energised exploring new cultures, while others crave nothing more than sunshine, good food and the simple luxury of slowing down. Travel isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. It’s personal. It’s emotional. It’s a reflection of you. And that’s why the best holidays aren’t picked at random, they’re chosen by discovering what kind of traveller you truly are. Are you the adventurer? The luxury seeker? The family memory‑maker? The culture lover? Or the dreamer ready to explore a far‑flung corner of the world? When you match your personality to the right holiday style, something magical happens: the anticipation grows, the excitement builds, and suddenly the journey feels like it’s already begun. So let’s dive in. Let’s explore the escape that suits your spirit, the holiday that feels like it was created with you in mind. Your perfect match is waiting…and it might just surprise you.

The Rise of Fitness Tourism: Why Irish Travellers are going abroad for races & events

by Kelly Collins • 25 March 2026
If you have noticed more Irish people swapping sun loungers for start lines, you are not imagining it. Fitness tourism, sometimes called race-cation have become one of the fastest growing travel trends for Irish holidaymakers. From destination marathons to HYROX events abroad, more of us are choosing to travel with a purpose, challenge ourselves in new cities and come home with a medal rather than just a tan. And the numbers back it up. Global marathon participation rose 9% last year, with runners increasingly choosing races based on location rather than proximity to home. HYROX, too, has exploded on social media, giving travellers a whole new kind of event to plan trips around So what's behind Ireland's growing love affair with fitness-focused travel? Let's break it down. 

Top 6 Travel Destinations with Direct Flights from Cork Airport for 2026

by Leonor Resende • 25 March 2026
Imagine Cork Airport not as a terminal, but as a hallway lined with doors, each one opening onto a completely different world. Behind one door: golden beaches warmed by the Canary sun. Behind another: cobblestone streets, cafés buzzing with conversation, and the soft glow of city lights reflecting off canal water. Further down, a hidden gem on the Adriatic coast invites you to slow down, wander, taste, and explore. No matter what type of traveller you are, sun chaser, culture seeker, foodie, or adventurer, Cork’s direct flight network now connects you to the places you’ve been dreaming about. Here are six of the most inspiring destinations you can reach in just one flight. Step through any door you like.
Rocky coastline with green mountains meeting the blue ocean under a bright sky.

Madeira: The Island That Feels Like Five Destinations in One

by Leonor Resende • 12 March 2026
When most people think of island holidays, they imagine one thing: golden sandy beaches and long, lazy days by the sea, but the Portuguese island of Madeira is unlike any other. In this destination, you can experience landscapes and activities that feel like travelling across several destinations.  One moment you’re wandering misty mountain peaks shrouded in clouds, the next you’re swimming in volcanic pools, and by evening, you could be savouring world-famous wine while watching the sun dip into the Atlantic. Madeira is nature, adventure, culture, and relaxation all in one compact island. Here’s why it’s a destination you simply cannot miss.
Open suitcase with hat, sunglasses, headphones, camera, phone, and clothing on a bed.

Where to Travel in Summer 2026 in Europe

by Leonor Resende • 5 March 2026
Summer 2026 is just around the corner, and travellers are already dreaming of sunny beaches, cultural getaways, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're planning a short city break, a family holiday, or a luxury escape, knowing which European destinations are trending this year can help you plan the perfect getaway. From the postcard-perfect cliffs of Santorini, Greece, to the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, Croatia, the rustic beauty of Calabria, Italy, the cultural energy of Bilbao, Spain, and the year‑round sunshine of Tenerife, Europe is full of extraordinary places waiting to be explored this summer. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the hottest destinations of 2026, complete with insider tips, must‑see attractions, and ideas to help you plan the perfect summer getaway. 

The Best Hikes Around the world: Unforgettable trails for adventure travellers

by Kelly Collins • 10 February 2026
Hiking is one of the most immersive ways to experience the world's natural beauty, offering travellers the chance to slow down, breathe deeply and connect with landscapes that feel untouched by time. From dramatic mountain passes to lush tropical coastlines, the best hikes around the world provide not only physical challenge but also cultural discovery and breathtaking scenery. For Travel Enthusiasts seeking their next great adventure, these iconic trails represent some of the most rewarding journeys on the planet. 

The Adventure Seeker’s Guide to Greece’s Lesser-Known Islands"

by Kelly Collins • 4 February 2026
Now that summer is creeping up, many of us are starting to think about which holidays and destinations to tick off our bucket lists. To make that decision a little easier, today I’m going to guide you through some of the Greek islands that are perfect for adventure, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. While many dream of sun-soaked beaches and romantic sunsets, there is another side of Greece that is perfect for travellers who want more than just a postcard view. For those who crave hiking, swimming and discovering landscapes that feel untouched, there are many Greek islands that are built perfectly for that adventure! 

The Ultimate Guide to Thailand’s Festivals: Water, Lanterns, and Culture

by Kelly Collins • 14 January 2026
Thailand has become one of the world's most popular travel destinations, and it's easy to see why. Stunning beaches, vibrant cities, rich culture and unbeatable street food make it a must-visit country for any traveller. But one thing that makes Thailand really stand out is its festivals. From the splash-filled streets of Songkran to the glowing skies of Loy Krathong and Yi Peng, Thailand's festivals are an immersive experience of culture, fun and adventure. Whether you're a Gen Z traveller seeking Instagram-worthy pics or an older traveller looking to soak in tradition and local customs, there is something for everyone. This ultimate guide will show the top festivals in Thailand, including when to visit, what to expect and tips for experiencing them like a local. 

Paris: A city full of Sights, Stories and Food

by Kelly Collins • 5 January 2026
Paris is a city that you think you’ve seen before you arrive. The Effial tower, The Louvre, Pastries and cafes all line your imagination before you leave for your trip. But when you start walking the streets, Paris uncovers many years of history and culture that go beyond a postcard or seeing through a screen.