Chasing the Northern Lights: Top Scandinavian and Nordic Destinations to See the Aurora Borealis This Winter
Winter in the Nordics and Scandinavia offers one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural displays – the Northern Lights. Every year, tourists from all over the globe head north to witness the aurora borealis, which turns the sky into a vibrant spectacle of color. In this guide, we’ll explore the top destinations for seeing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia and the Nordics, and we’ll introduce a few tips on how you can make the most of your trip with VAT refunds using Pie VAT.
What Are the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural light display that occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field. This interaction results in colorful light patterns in the sky, primarily greens, pinks, and purples. The lights are most visible in high-latitude areas around the Arctic Circle, making Scandinavia and the Nordics prime viewing destinations. Winter is the best time to witness this phenomenon, as the long, dark nights offer ideal conditions for spotting the lights.
Top Northern Lights Destinations in Scandinavia and the Nordics
If seeing the Northern Lights is on your winter travel list, these locations offer some of the best viewing experiences:
1. Tromsø, Norway
Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø is one of Norway’s top Northern Lights destinations. Located within the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is famous for its clear skies and long winter nights. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that take them away from city lights for an even better aurora experience.
2. Abisko, Sweden
In Sweden, Abisko is celebrated for having some of the clearest skies in Scandinavia, making it a reliable spot to see the Northern Lights. The Abisko National Park even has an Aurora Sky Station, where visitors can learn about the science behind the lights and increase their chances of a great sighting.
3. Finnish Lapland, Finland
Finnish Lapland offers a variety of aurora experiences, from viewing spots in remote wilderness areas to heated glass igloos that let you watch the lights from the comfort of your bed. Rovaniemi, known as the “home of Santa Claus,” is also a popular tourist hub with many Northern Lights viewing tours.
4. Reykjavik, Iceland
While Iceland isn’t technically part of Scandinavia, it’s a top destination in the Nordic region for Northern Lights seekers. Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, has become increasingly popular for its aurora tours, as well as its proximity to stunning natural landscapes like waterfalls and glaciers.
5. The Faroe Islands, Denmark
The Faroe Islands (Denmark) offer a unique setting for Northern Lights viewing. While they’re remote and less crowded than other destinations, they boast breathtaking landscapes that make the Northern Lights even more enchanting. Weather conditions can be challenging, but the islands offer an unspoiled, peaceful aurora experience.
Where Visitors Will Come From
Travelers from all over the world flock to the Nordics to witness the Northern Lights, with large numbers coming from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. With the rise in “aurora tourism,” these Northern Lights destinations now attract visitors from East Asia, particularly China, Japan, and South Korea. Many of these tourists take advantage of VAT refunds to make their Scandinavian shopping experience even more affordable.
What Is a VAT Refund?
A VAT refund, or Value Added Tax refund, is a way for international travelers to recoup some of the taxes they pay on goods purchased abroad. In Scandinavia, VAT rates can be as high as 25%, so claiming a refund can mean substantial savings. To qualify, you typically need to:
Spend above a minimum threshold (varies by country).
Present your receipts and proof of export (showing the goods are leaving the country).
Complete the VAT refund paperwork and get customs validation before departure.
VAT refunds are a popular perk for tourists, making their shopping experience more cost-effective.
What Is Pie VAT?
Pie VAT is a digital-first VAT refund platform that simplifies the refund process for international travelers. Traditionally, VAT refunds required paper forms, long lines, and a lengthy waiting period. Pie VAT streamlines this by offering a fully digital experience via its app. Here’s what makes Pie VAT a top choice for travelers in the Nordics:
Fast Refunds: Pie VAT processes refunds within 24 hours, letting you enjoy your savings almost immediately.
Digital Convenience: Upload receipts, passport information, and other documents through the app – no need for handwritten forms.
Low Fees: Pie VAT charges minimal fees compared to traditional VAT refund providers, so you keep more of your refund.
Using Pie VAT allows you to save time and money, making your Nordic adventure even more enjoyable.
Making the Most of Your Northern Lights Trip with Pie VAT
When visiting the Nordics for a Northern Lights experience, you may want to shop for souvenirs, outdoor gear, and local handicrafts. With high VAT rates in Scandinavian countries, it’s worthwhile to use Pie VAT to maximize your savings. Here’s how it works:
Shop at Participating Stores: Look for stores that partner with Pie VAT.
Request Tax-Free Shopping: When purchasing, let the staff know you want to claim VAT.
Upload Receipts via the Pie VAT App: Use the app to submit your receipts, passport, and other info.
Get Customs Validation: At the airport, visit customs to confirm you’re taking the items with you.
Receive Your Refund: Enjoy a quick refund through the app.
Enjoy the Northern Lights and Maximize Your Savings
A Northern Lights trip to Scandinavia and the Nordics is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the region’s high VAT rates mean that using a service like Pie VAT can make your journey more affordable. From Norway’s Tromsø to Iceland’s Reykjavik, each destination offers unique ways to see the aurora. With Pie VAT, you’ll have a seamless way to reclaim some of your expenses, so you can enjoy both the sights and the savings.
