I first visited Alta, Norway last year whilst researching my travel guide, and completely fell in love with the destination. As you know, I specialise in western Norway (where I grew up), and had not yet travelled extensively up north.
So, I was excited to hear about all the fun things to do in Alta before my trip, and ended up being blown away by each activity, experience and hotel I stayed at during the trip.
From dog-sledding through the Finnmark forests to sleeping in a hotel made entirely of ice (!), every single thing I did in Alta felt like a bucket list experience.
In short, if you are planning a trip to Northern Norway and are unsure of which destinations to include, I couldn’t recommend Alta, Norway enough!
Table of Contents
Quick Alta, Norway Travel Guide
Where to stay: I absolutely loved Glød Explorer’s Aurora Canvas Dome, with the glass ceiling allowing you to look up at the sky (and northern lights, if you’re lucky). And of course, you can’t miss a night at the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel – a truly unique experience! Scandic Alta and Thon Alta offer more affordable accommodation in the city center.
Where to eat: Downtown Alta has several great restaurants worth trying (such as Alattio), but for a truly fine-dining experience, don’t miss Maku Restaurant at Sorrisniva.
Top activities and tours in Alta:
- Northern Lights Chasing ($157)
- Dog Sledding Experience ($138)
- Snowmobiling on the Finnmark plateau ($180)
- Whale Watching ($255)
- Snowshoe Hiking ($190)
Packing for Alta, Norway: Alta in the winter is freezing, so check out my complete Norway winter packing guide before you go. In the summer you’ll be able to enjoy the heat of the midnight sun, but i still recommend layers, layers and layers.
Alta, Norway Travel Guide
As mentioned, Alta stood out to me as a destination with lots of bucket list experiences and great things to do. But before we dive into the list, here’s a few travel tips before you go!
Alta is a small city, with around 20 000 inhabitants. In addition to being a popular tourist destination due to its winter activities and natural phenomena such as the midnight sun and northern lights, Alta has for a long time been a popular place for salmon fishing!
Yes, the Alta river has been known for its rich salmon fishing for decades.
In addition to this, Alta is a great destination for learning about Sami culture and life. There are several experiences and things to do that focus on the Sami lifestyle in Alta – so it is worth adding to your list if you are curious about the native people of Norway.
Getting there
Alta is very far north in Norway, so you will most likely be flying up north from either Oslo or Bergen. Alta has a small airport (ALF), but it is also possible to fly into Tromsø (TOS) and make the 6-hour drive to Alta (like I did).
Yes, Alta is 6 hours further north than Tromsø, just to put it into perspective.
In addition to driving from Tromsø to Alta, there is a daily bus between the two cities, that will let you sit back and enjoy the view without having to drive yourself.
16 Epic Things to do in Alta, Norway
Now that you know how to get there, and why people visit Alta, it’s time to dive into the main reason you are probably reading this post! in no particular order (seriously, each of these are amazing, and there’s no way I could decide on which experience was better), here are all the best things to do in Alta!
Whilst Alta is a yearround destination, most of its tourism is winter-focused. Therefore, you’ll find that many of the tours and experiences are only available in the colder months. Luckily, with Alta being so far north, the winter season in Alta is long – like October to April (or even early May) long.
Where applicable, I have made a note of whether it’s a summer or winter activity, just to clarify (for example when it comes to the northern lights and midnight sun). Sadly it’s not possible to experience both in the same trip.
#1 Staying in the Igloo Hotel
This one had to be first on the list – because it is such a bucket list activity for anyone visiting Norway.
The Igloo Hotel in Alta is rebuilt every winter, and made entirely out of snow and ice. I had dreamt of staying there ever since I first saw it on the news when I was young, and it was such a cool experience!
Every year the hotel has a different theme, with various carvings and art pieces around the hotel. So even if you aren’t staying there, I highly recommend visiting during opening hours.
There is a bar and a chapel inside – it is even possible to get married there!
They open the hotel for the public from 12:00 to 20:00 every day. After this, it is only open for staying guests.
It is quite the experience, and you are provided with lockers in the main hotel building where you can store your valuables – and your luggage it kept in a storage room.
Basically, you are advised to not bring any personal belongings into the Igloo hotel other than what you absolutely need. Personally, I brought my phone, my chapstick and my Kindle.
You are provided with two thermal sleeping bags, which are more than enough to keep you warm through the night. Additionally, you are advised to wear wool underneath (or instead of) your pyjama.
If you don’t have one yet, browse some of my favourite Norwegian sweaters for your trip!
In the morning, the sauna in the main hotel is open for those staying in the Igloo Hotel, which is such a great way to start the day!
My tips for staying in the Igloo Hotel in Alta, Norway:
- If you bring any items into the hotel overnight (such as your phone), keep them in your sleeping bag when you sleep to keep the battery from being drained.
- Book one of the suites – these are uniquely themed, and all are different!
- Don’t plan to spend time in the Igloo Hotel before going to bed – my tip is to stay in the main hotel until you plan to go to bed, to avoid getting cold before bed.
- A general tip is to not drink too much right before bed, to avoid getting up in the middle of the night.
#2 Dogsledding with Trasti og Trine
Like I’ve mentioned, I felt like everything I did in Alta were bucket list worthy activities, and dogsledding with Trasti og Trine were one of them!
Going dogsledding is a must whilst in Alta, and I couldn’t recommend it enough. From getting to cuddle the dogs, learning how to get them ready for the sledding, and actually getting to steer myself, it was quite the adventure!
During our time on the sled we also saw several moose wandering around the forests of Finnmark, and I’ll never forget it! Moose is the national animal of Norway.
Top tip: you can even stay overnight at Trasti & Trine’s boutique hotel! The food is absolutely incredible.
I was also incredibly lucky, as my dog sledding guide was none other than Trine’s daughter Hanna Lyrek – the world’s youngest winner of the Finnmarksløpet dog-sled race (Europe’s longest and toughest)! She has also competed in the Iditarod, and told me lots of stories during our day together (answering all my questions).
#3 Snowmobiling on the Finnmarksvidda Plateau
Exploring the Finnmarksvidda plateau on a snowmobile is a truly unique way to travel across the landscape, and gives you a glimpse into how the locals best get around.
There are several different types of snowmobile excursions, and most include pick up from your hotel (or even cruise ship).
Being in the middle of the plateau, seeing nothing but snow and bare mountain as far as your eyes can see, is an experience unlike any other. I felt so free, and it was so cool to be so far removed from everything.
Even cooler was when my guide pointed in various directions and said “over there is Russia, and that way there is the Finnish border”. It really put the map into perspective (a lot of people don’t even know that Norway borders Russia).
There are several excursions to choose from, ranging from just a few hours to full day trips. For my next visit to Alta I am eyeing up this historical snowmobile excursion along the old postal route.
Browse all options and book your snowmobile excursion adventure here!
#4 Sami Siida
You can’t visit Alta (or northern Norway, for that matter) without setting aside time to learn about Norway’s indigenous people: the Sami.
The Sami were historically a nomadic people, following the reindeer herds through the year. Today, they live all over Norway and Scandinavia, and are mainly settled.
At Sami Siida, a Sami owned business, you can meet the owners, their reindeer, try a traditional Sami meal (biđos is not to be missed) and learn about Sami culture and traditions.
I highly recommend spending a few hours at Sami Siida. They have several different experiences that let you immerse yourself in Sami culture, suitable for all ages.
#5 Stay in the Aurora Canvas Dome
For my first night in Alta, I drove straight to GLØD Explorer’s Aurora Canvas Domes. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, since I had only seen a couple of photos in advance, and the stay had been kindly set up for me by Visit Alta.
What met me was what started my impression of Alta as a bucket list destination. These domes are made by canvas, with a see-through ceiling and front facing the forest.
There were 5-6 domes in total, scattered around the property with a wooden walkway in between them, and sheds for firewood.
Yes, firewood. Because each dome has its own fireplace! If you know anything about Norwegians and our traditions, you’ll know that we love a fireplace. It’s all about the hygge.
Even though there were other domes just a stone’s throw away, I felt completely secluded in my dome, since the see-through part of the dome faced the forest (and the sky).
I visited Alta in early May, so it wasn’t quite dark enough to see the Aurora Borealis dancing across the sky. However, if you visit at the right time of year for the northern lights, I can guarantee you an epic experience!
The Aurora Canvas Domes sell out fast, so it is absolutely vital to book early. Book it in advance here!
#6 Alta Museum
The Alta Museum is a great place to visit during your stay in Alta, and a great way to spend an hour or two, not too far from the city center.
The Museum is built near some of the rock drawings of Alta (next on the list), so you can combine a visit to the rock drawings together with a walk around the exhibitions.
They have a permanent exhibition about the UNESCO Listed rock drawings and their history, the native people of the area (the Sami and the Kvens), sportsmanship in the north and more.
In addition to this, they also have various temporary exhibits on display. The Alta Museum is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the area above the polar circle, their resources and way of life.
#7 UNESCO Listed Rock Drawings (Summer)
Did you know that Alta has a UNESCO World Heritage Listed sight? One of less than 10 in Norway, and on the list along with the west Norwegian fjords and the Bryggen area in Bergen.
The rock carvings discovered in Alta are the largest collection of rock art from hunter-gatherers in northern Europe. They are estimated to be from 2000-7000 years ago, and can be seen only in the summer (when the snow has melted).
If you are visiting Alta in the winter, I recommend visiting the Alta Museum still to see their exhibit on the rock art.
#8 The Northern Lights Cathedral
In the center of Alta you will find the city’s modern cathedral, known as the Northern Lights Cathedral.
They sure love giving their churches fancy names up north – the Tromsø cathedral is called the Arctic Cathedral.
This modern church was finished in 2013, and has a titanium finish and an asymmetrical shape reaching towards the sky.
Since it is one of the most well-known sights in Alta, don’t miss it during your visit. If you are in the city center for lunch or dinner one day, it is just a 2-minute walk from some of the restaurants.
#9 Whale Safari (winter)
In the wintertime, northern Norway is a great place to see whales, and Alta is no exception.
Humpback whales and orcas are most commonly spotted from the whale safaris leaving Alta (such as this one), all though there is never a guarantee (of course).
What I like about this tour is that they are conscious about the welfare of the animals, and turn their engine off completely when they spot the whales, as to not disturb them. As a result, you can enjoy them from a safe distance that does not bother the animal (all though some of the whales will swim closer to the boat out of curiosity).
Book your whale and fjord safari from Alta here!
#10 Snowshoe Hiking (winter)
If you want an active trip, but are traveling in the winter when the avalanche risk is high and not all trails are accessible, I recommend joining a guided snow shoe hike!
Snowshoe hiking is similar to normal hiking, except that you are equipped with snowshoes (added to your normal shoes), allowing you to walk on top of snow without falling through.
Snowshoes are very popular around Norway, and it’s a great winter activity!
This experience is a 4-hour snowshoe hiking excursion from Alta, Norway – ending with a cozy talk around the fire, Norwegian waffles included!
#11 Go on a Sleigh Ride
A little further up on the list I have mentioned Sami Siida as a place to go in Alta, and how they offer reindeer sleigh rides there.
However, it is also possible to go on a sleigh ride through the forests with horses (usually a Fjording or two – a Norwegian fjord horse).
Snuggled up in a warm blanket, you’ll glide through the scenery onboard the sleigh. There are several options for this activity, both including a meal and without.
#12 Chasing the Northern Lights (Winter)
Of course, when visiting Norway in the winter, seeing the Northern Lights is at the top of everyone’s list. With good reason.
Personally, the Northern Lights (also known as Aurora Borealis) are something I never get tired of seeing, and that’s coming from someone who grew up in Norway.
Read next: How to take photos of the Northern Lights with a GoPro or an iPhone
As is expected, there are countless Northern Lights tours in Alta in the winter, ranging from walking tours, to bus chases, all the way to snowmobile safaris.
There is even a private Northern Lights tour option available, which sounds amazing if you are traveling as a group or bigger family (or just want the full attention of your guide).
Some of the excursions even come with a Northern Lights guarantee – meaning that if you don’t see any, you automatically get a ticket for the next night.
Top tip: for this reason, book your Northern Lights chase for one of your first nights in Alta. This way, you will have several chances to see them during your trip, in case you miss them on the first night.
All the Northern Lights trips are popular, and can sell out early, so make sure to book as early as you can (I usually advise that you book them as soon as you know your travel dates).
And as another side note, make sure to dress well – meaning wool layers and good shoes. Read my complete post on packing for winter in Norway here.
Browse all Northern Lights tours from Alta below.
#13 Seeing the Midnight Sun (Summer)
Of course, the next natural phenomenon on the list of things to see in Alta, after the Northern Lights, is the Midnight Sun.
This is a phenomenon happening above the Arctic Circle, and happens during the summer months. It is when the sun literally doesn’t set, and so you have sunlight (and can see the sun) 24 hours a day for a longer period of time during the summer.
In Alta, you can see the Midnight Sun from mid May (the 16th) to late July (the 26th). That’s over 2 months of sunshine!
As always, when visiting Norway in the summer, never travel without a proper blackout eye mask, such as this one.
#14 Hiking (Summer)
Those visiting in the summer can enjoy some of the great hikes around Alta, and make the most of the long days by spending them out in nature.
Two relatively easy hikes near the city center are Komsatoppen and Hjemmelufttoppen. Another great hike is Alta Canyon, taking you to a viewpoint of the Alta Canyon (obviously), dug out by the Alta river.
The hiking season in Alta is usually from May to October, but always check with locals (or the local tourism board) before going on a hike.
#15 ATV City Tour
This guided trip is a great way to see Alta, as you drive around the city (and beyond) on your own ATV.
You will have your own guide, and explore the area whilst having a little bit of fun on your four-wheeled vehicle. The tour is suitable for anyone, as it is not physically challenging.
The only thing you need is a valid driver’s license. You can expect to see the Northern Lights Cathedral, the city center of Alta, and the Alta River on this tour.
#16 Visit Alta Chocolate
Not many people know that Æventyr Sjokolade, located in Alta, is the world’s northernmost (continental) chocolate factory!
Their factory is located right in the center of Alta, and you can book a chocolate tasting that includes storytelling and some insight into how they got started and how they make their chocolate.
The chocolate is handmade, and they use a lot of local and Arctic ingredients, making their chocolates quite unique (and super yummy).
You can visit their outlet in Markedsgata 6, or book one of these tastings (including storytelling). The experience lasts 1,5 hours.
Alta Shore Excursions (technically #17)
If you are visiting Alta on a cruise ship, as many people are, you’ll be happy to hear that so many of the excursions and activities I have listed in this post can be combined with your days in port.
As Alta is a small city, all activity providers are aware of when a cruise ship is in town, and seem more than happy to tailor the timing of the excursion to the hours of the cruise ship.
Below you will see a selection of the best tours available under the “Shore excursions” filter on Viator – meaning they can fit the schedule of your time visiting Alta on your cruise.
A lot of them will even pick you up on the cruise dock, and bring you back after the activity ends. Of course, always double check timing when you book.
The best things to do in Alta, Norway
Now that I’ve covered some of my favourite activities and excursions in Alta, it’s time for you to choose! From dogsledding to going on a northern lights chase, no matter what you do I know you will be blown away!
Below are a few of the top activities in the area, most of which include pick up from your hotel (or the cruise pier) – I highly recommend booking your activities in advance, because Alta is a small city and everything is at risk to sell out.
