Alta

🇳🇴 Norway
Experience Nature's Wonderland in Alta, Norway

Alta - Vacation Briefing

Alta, Norway is a breathtaking destination nestled in the heart of Arctic beauty. Known as the 'City of the Northern Lights', this charming town offers a unique blend of natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in the magical display of the Aurora Borealis dancing across the night sky. Explore the breathtaking landscapes, from snow-covered mountains and deep fjords to vast forests and serene lakes. Discover the ancient rock carvings at Alta Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on thrilling adventures like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Experience the warmth of Sami hospitality and learn about their vibrant traditions.

Popular Sights in Alta

Things to do during your Alta vacation

Alta is a charming town located in northern Norway, known for its pristine nature and rich cultural heritage. With a unique combination of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, there is no shortage of things to do in Alta. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a history buff, Alta offers a wide range of activities to suit every preference.

  • Northern Lights Safari: Embark on a thrilling expedition to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky.
  • Hiking in Alta: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Alta through scenic hiking trails that lead you to stunning viewpoints and hidden gems.
  • Dog Sledding Adventure: Experience the thrill of mushing your own team of huskies through the Arctic wilderness, surrounded by snowy landscapes.
  • Alta Museum: Visit the Alta Museum to learn about the fascinating ancient rock carvings and gain insights into the history and culture of the region.
  • Sami Culture Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the indigenous Sami people, with opportunities to try reindeer sledding and learn traditional handicrafts.
  • Fishing in Alta River: Indulge in a relaxing fishing excursion along the pristine waters of the Alta River, known for its abundant salmon population.
  • Canyoning Adventure: Embark on an adrenaline-pumping canyoning adventure, navigating through thrilling waterfalls and natural rock formations.
  • Snowshoeing in Arctic Forests: Explore the magical Arctic forests on snowshoes, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the winter wilderness.
  • Visit the Igloo Hotel: Experience a unique stay at the world-famous Igloo Hotel, where you can sleep under the mesmerizing northern lights.
  • Alta Canyon (Sautso): Marvel at the grandeur of Alta Canyon (Sautso), one of the largest canyons in Europe, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
  • Local Cuisine Tasting: Indulge in the flavors of Alta by sampling the local cuisine, including traditional dishes made with fresh Arctic ingredients.

Why you should visit Alta

Overall
6.8

Alta, Norway is a beautiful destination with stunning natural scenery and a rich cultural heritage. However, there are some factors that may affect its desirability.

Safety
6

Alta, Norway generally has low crime rates and is politically stable. However, the region can experience extreme weather conditions and natural disasters such as avalanches, which may affect safety.

Culture
8

Alta, Norway has a rich cultural heritage with its indigenous Sami population and fascinating history. Visitors can explore museums, learn about traditional Sami culture, and enjoy local cuisine.

Nightlife
4

Alta, Norway is not known for its vibrant nightlife. It is a quiet and peaceful destination, perfect for those seeking relaxation and nature.

Adventure
7

Alta, Norway offers opportunities for adventure enthusiasts, such as skiing, dog sledding, and snowmobiling during the winter months. However, the options may be limited compared to other adventure destinations.

Relaxation
9

Alta, Norway is incredibly relaxing, offering a serene environment surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and taking peaceful walks.

Best time to visit Alta

Alta, Norway is a fantastic destination for travelers who are looking for a winter wonderland experience. The best time to visit is between December and March, when the region offers excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and experiencing the mesmerizing northern lights.

Jan
ideal for winter sports
-12°C - -7°C
Feb
prime time for aurora viewing
-11°C - -6°C
Mar
end of winter, milder weather
-8°C - -3°C
Apr
transition to spring, fewer tourists
-1°C - 3°C
May
transitional weather, longer days
2°C - 8°C
Jun
midnight sun, mild temperatures
7°C - 14°C
Jul
midnight sun, least crowded
10°C - 17°C
Aug
warmer temperatures, nature activities
9°C - 15°C
Sep
autumn colors, fewer tourists
4°C - 10°C
Oct
fall foliage, charming atmosphere
-1°C - 4°C
Nov
start of the northern lights season
-9°C - -4°C
Dec
prime time for winter activities, auroras
-11°C - -6°C
December is the pinnacle of winter wonderland in Alta. With temperatures ranging from -6°C to -11°C, indulge in thrilling winter activities and witness the captivating northern lights in the dark Arctic nights.

A guide To your first day of Alta vacation

morning

  • Visit the Alta Museum to learn about the region's indigenous Sami culture and see the famous rock carvings.
  • Take a leisurely hike in the surrounding wilderness and enjoy the stunning views of the fjords and mountains.

afternoon

  • Explore the Alta Canyon, known as 'The Norwegian Grand Canyon', and marvel at its impressive rock formations.
  • Go dog sledding and experience the thrill of gliding through the snowy landscapes with a team of huskies.

evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Sami dinner and learn about their culinary traditions and storytelling.
  • Take a Northern Lights tour and witness the mesmerizing beauty of the aurora borealis in the dark arctic sky.

night

  • Relax and unwind in a cozy cabin or traditional Sami tent, and experience the peacefulness of the Arctic night.
  • Visit the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, a unique ice hotel, and enjoy a drink in the ice bar.

How to get to Alta

By Plane

Alta Airport (ALF) is the main airport serving the region. While it may not have as many international connections as larger airports, it offers convenient flights from major cities in Norway and a few key European destinations. Travelers can expect a hassle-free arrival with short queues and easy access to ground transportation.

By other means

Getting to Alta by public transport is a breeze. The city is well-connected by train and bus services from major cities in Norway, making it convenient for both domestic and international travelers. In addition, Alta has a ferry terminal offering scenic routes to other coastal destinations in Norway.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Best for travelers who are ...

Nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those fascinated by indigenous cultures

How long to stay in Alta?

To fully experience Alta, we recommend staying for at least 3 to 5 days, allowing ample time to witness the Northern Lights, explore the natural wonders, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Similar destination to Alta, Norway

Because Alta is known for nature,hiking,sightseeing and adventure these destinations might be a good fit for you: