23 Breathtaking Places to Catch the Northern Lights on a Budget

Destination 15: Senja, Norway

The Lofoten Islands are world-famous for their dramatic landscapes and stunning fjords, but if you're looking for the same breathtaking scenery without the crowds and high prices, Senja is the place to go. Often referred to as “Norway’s best-kept secret,” Senja offers an untouched Arctic experience with towering peaks, pristine beaches, and some of the most jaw-dropping Northern Lights displays in Norway. Senja is ideal for budget travelers because it offers affordable cabin rentals, camping spots, and hiking trails where you can enjoy free, uninterrupted views of the aurora. One of the best ways to see the lights is by driving along the National Tourist Route Senja, a breathtaking coastal road that winds through fjords, cliffs, and tiny fishing villages—all of which offer incredible spots to pull over and watch the sky erupt in color.