Travel Trends & Tips

Where to See the Northern Lights by Train

Travel Blog

Author: Paul Tavener, Owner Marvellous Escapes Mar 23, 2026 05 Minutes Read

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The northern lights, for many, are a spectacle only seen on a bucket list and if you are lucky enough to catch a sight of them in England, you’re limited to seeing them through your camera lens. Most prominent in the months between September and April, there are only a handful of destinations around the world where the northern lights are able to be seen frequently. 

There are of course many ways of trying to catch a glimpse of these beautiful bursts of colour in the sky, from chilly night time tours, to bumpy coach trips up Scandinavian mountains. However, at Marvellous Escapes, we believe an event so stunning and rare should be experienced on a journey that is just as magical as the northern lights themselves. Have you ever thought about exploring the northern lights by rail?

NORWAY

One of the best places to see the northern lights by rail is Norway, famous for its beautiful snowy peaks and remarkable fjords, normally only seen in magazines.

With the aurora borealis at its highest level in 11 years, the best time to visit Norway is now. Unlike other northern light hotspots, Norwegian holidaymakers have a chance of spotting this spectacle all year round, with an increased chance in Spring and Summer. 

The northern lights can be spotted from most places in Norway. However, most notable areas for a glimpse of the aurora include: Alta, also known as ‘the City of the Northern Lights’; Kirkenes, often chosen for a more secluded viewing spot and the Lofoten Islands, for an unforgettable mirror image of the lights over the sea. 

Coast along the Flam railway, taking in the dramatic 20.2km stretch of towering mountains and soft blanket of luscious forests, before pausing in front of the Kjosfossen waterfall. Sometimes appearing in the distance, you may be lucky enough to spot the mythical huldra, singing in the hills, giving you good fortune and protection for eternity. 

Our packages such as Northern Lights Odyssey and Oslo to the Aurora travel deep into the Arctic Circle, driven by the thrill of experiencing the northern lights by rail.

SCOTLAND

Scotland, voted as the most beautiful country in the world, consistently tops others for its landscapes and natural beauty. With its gorgeous valleys and rugged hills surrounding the lochs, Scotland, especially when visited around the time of the equinoxes, is the perfect place to see the northern lights by train. 

While away on our luxurious rail holidays in Scotland, you will venture across exclusive idyllic destinations like the Glenfinnan Viaduct and the ruins of Urquhart Castle. There are multiple famous trains you may travel on throughout your journey around Scotland.

Across the Caledonian Sleeper, the Belmond Royal Scotsman and the Jacobite Steam Train, you’ll experience top-tier accommodation and excellent hospitality, all while absorbing the outstanding views and in many cases, the northern lights.

Notable viewing points of the northern lights are the Cairngorms National Park, the Outer Hebrides and the Aberdeenshire coastline, however they are most prominent across the Isle of Skye. Here, you can visit the Fairy Pools, Old Man of Storr and the Neist Point Lighthouse. Each destination along the rail journey proves exactly why Scotland has been previously voted the most beautiful country in the world.

SWITZERLAND

Embark on a panoramic journey like no other, exploring the spectacular Swiss scenery by rail for your next getaway. Switzerland, home to some of the top European destinations like Zermatt, Lucerne and St. Moritz, has the perfect blend of medieval villages and bustling towns to untouched, dramatic landscapes to discover. 

Although the northern lights are known to be rarer across Switzerland than our other mentioned destinations, when they appear, most frequently in the winter months, they are phenomenally vibrant, dancing across the sky with electrifying energy. Capturing this spectacle is utterly incredible and becoming increasingly more frequent due to the intense solar flares in recent years. 

While on your getaway, you will explore these sights from the comfort of three of our renowned trains- Glacier Express, the Bernina Express and the Jungfrau Railway, all of which have large panoramic views of the landscapes surrounding you, as well as air-conditioning and spacious seating.

EXPERIENCE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS BY RAIL THIS YEAR

By booking onto our wide range of scenic rail holidays you will embark on a breath-taking journey through lush forests, snowy mountains and rolling hills, all from the comfort of a prestigious train carriage. To find out more about the trips we have to offer, please visit our Contact page, where we are happy to discuss any queries you have.