Alta
,Alta is a municipality in northern Norway situated in Finnmark county. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Northern Lights which can be seen from September to March. Alta is also home to the UNESCO-listed Alta Rock Art, showcasing prehistoric rock carvings dating back thousands of years.
The municipality offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and dog sledding in the winter months.
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Hvordan har du det?" - How are you?
- "Ha en fin dag" - Have a nice day
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $90
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Alta's Northern Lights
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Alta Museum, where you can learn about the fascinating history of the region. Take a peaceful stroll along the nearby river to enjoy the picturesque scenery.
afternoon
:Head to the Northern Lights Cathedral and admire its striking architecture. Enjoy lunch at a local café featuring traditional Norwegian dishes.
evening
:Join a guided Northern Lights tour in the evening. Experience the magic of the aurora borealis in the wilderness.
Outdoor Adventure in Alta
morning
:Gear up for a day of outdoor activities, beginning with a hearty breakfast. Head out for a thrilling hiking trip to the nearby hills.
afternoon
:Have a packed lunch amidst nature while enjoying panoramic views. You could also consider mountain biking for a dose of adrenaline.
evening
:Return to town for a warm dinner at a cozy restaurant. Reflect on your adventures while enjoying the local cuisine.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural landscapes, including the Northern Lights and midnight sun.
- Rich cultural history with indigenous Sami heritage.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.
- Vibrant local community with various festivals and events throughout the year.
- Access to unique wildlife and nature experiences.
Bad
- Harsh climate with extremely cold winters and limited daylight during parts of the year.
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions in Norway.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Remote location which can make travel to and from other parts of Norway challenging.
- Fewer amenities and services compared to larger cities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking
Explore the stunning landscapes of Alta by hiking through trails that lead to breathtaking views, including cliffs and waterfalls.
Fishing
Experience excellent fishing opportunities in the many rivers and lakes in and around Alta, known for its salmon and trout.
Northern Lights Viewing
Visit during winter months for a chance to see the spectacular Northern Lights, with guided tours available for the best viewing spots.
Dog Sledding
Join a dog sledding tour through the snowy terrain, offering a unique and thrilling way to explore the Arctic wilderness.
Snowmobiling
Take a snowmobile tour for an exhilarating ride across the snowy landscapes, with options ranging from beginner to advanced trails.
Cave Exploration
Discover the magical ice caves near Alta, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the unique geology of the area.
River Rafting
Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the local rivers during the summer months, suitable for various skill levels.
Wildlife Watching
Take guided tours to spot local wildlife, including reindeer, moose, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Alta with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Fjellheisen Cable Car
Provides stunning panoramic views of Alta and the surrounding areas.
Alta Canyon
Offers breathtaking views of Norway's largest canyon.
Alta Museum
Features exhibitions on prehistoric rock carvings and offers views of the surrounding landscape.
Tirpitz Museum
Provides views of the fjord and the historical Tirpitz site.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bacalao
Bacalao, a Spanish-influenced dish made with dried salted cod, tomatoes, and peppers, is a popular and hearty choice in Alta. Try it at Kaffistova Alta for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Reindeer Stew (Finnebiff)
Sample the rich and tender reindeer stew, known as Finnebiff, which is a staple of Sami cuisine. Restaurant Haldde serves an excellent rendition of this traditional dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Alta better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Alta Farmers' Market
Explore the Alta Farmers' Market to discover a variety of local produce, artisanal cheeses, and freshly caught seafood. Don't miss the opportunity to try some reindeer sausage from the market stalls.
Alta River Promenade
For street food adventures, explore the Alta River Promenade where you can find food stalls offering grilled salmon, crab rolls, and other seafood delicacies.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect Local Customs
Familiarize yourself with and respect local customs and traditions, such as greeting with a smile and a firm handshake. This builds rapport and shows appreciation for the local culture.
Dress Appropriately
Dress modestly and appropriately for the local climate, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. In Alta, layering is essential due to varying weather conditions.
Be Mindful of Quiet Spaces
In public spaces, particularly during communal activities or nature experiences, maintain a respectful volume to preserve the serene environment. Alttans value tranquility in their natural surroundings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Alta with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Alta, as in the rest of Norway, tipping is not a common practice and is not generally expected. Service charges are typically included in the bill at restaurants, bars, and for services like taxis. However, if a visitor wishes to show appreciation for exceptional service, leaving a small tip (usually rounding up to the nearest ten or adding 5-10%) is appreciated but not obligatory.
Payment
Payments in Alta are usually made using credit or debit cards, as cash is becoming less common. Most establishments accept major cards, and contactless payment options are widely available. Some local businesses may still accept cash, but it's advisable to have a card for convenience. Digital wallets and mobile payment apps are also increasingly accepted.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Alta.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter
The best time to visit Alta, Norway is in winter, especially from November to March. During this time, visitors can experience the mesmerizing Northern Lights, go dog sledding, and engage in various winter sports activities.
Spring
In spring, from April to June, Alta experiences the transition from winter to milder temperatures. It's a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing and to witness the nature awakening after the long winter.
Summer
During the summer months of July and August, the days are long in Alta, allowing for outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, and exploring the stunning fjords. The weather is milder and perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Autumn
Autumn, from September to October, is a beautiful time to visit Alta as the fall colors begin to emerge. It's a great time for photography, hiking, and taking in the breathtaking landscapes before the arrival of winter.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Sautso Canyon
A stunning gorge that features dramatic cliffs and scenic views, perfect for experienced hikers looking for adventure.
Storfjorden
A beautiful hiking route along the fjord, offering a mix of forest tracts and coastline views, suitable for hikers of all levels.
Akkajaure Trail
A picturesque trail leading to Akkajaure, featuring breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes, ideal for a day hike.
Pyramiden
An iconic hiking destination known for its unique pyramid-shaped summit and panoramic views of the region, great for moderately skilled hikers.
Kjerringelva
This trail follows the Kjerringelva river, providing a quieter and more serene hiking experience with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Alta through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Alta by plane.
Tromsø Airport, Langnes (TOS)
Located approximately 42 miles (68 km) southwest of Alta, Tromsø Airport serves as a hub for northern Norway and offers both domestic and some international flights.
Bardufoss Airport (BDU)
Situated about 61 miles (98 km) southeast of Alta, Bardufoss Airport primarily serves domestic flights with connections to a few international destinations.
Kirkenes Airport, Hurtigruten (KKN)
Located roughly 90 miles (145 km) northeast of Alta, Kirkenes Airport provides services mainly to domestic destinations but also has some seasonal international routes.
Evenes Airport (EVE)
Around 125 miles (201 km) south of Alta, Evenes Airport acts as a primary gateway to the Lofoten Islands and is connected to various international flights.
North Cape Airport, Skjoldsvaer (HVG)
Approximately 140 miles (225 km) northwest of Alta, North Cape Airport primarily serves regional flights, with limited international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Norwegian
The predominant ethnic group in Alta, representing the majority of the population.
Sami
An indigenous people with a significant presence in the region, known for their distinct culture and language.
Immigrants
A growing demographic in Alta, consisting of individuals from various countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Finnish
A minority group with historical ties, having migrated to the region in the past.
The Soul of Alta
Discover the essence of Alta through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cross-Country Skiing
A popular winter sport in Alta, where the terrain and climate provide excellent conditions for skiing.
Ice Hockey
A widely followed sport in Alta, with many local teams and a strong community support.
Ski Jumping
Alta has facilities for ski jumping, attracting enthusiasts and competitors from the region.
Football (Soccer)
Football is a popular summer sport, with local clubs and leagues actively engaging the community.
Fishing
With its rich rivers and lakes, fishing is a beloved pastime for both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Alta cuisine often revolves around meat and seafood, many restaurants in Alta offer excellent vegetarian and vegan options, with a focus on fresh vegetables and locally foraged ingredients.
Gluten-free Options
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating menus at various eateries in Alta, especially those that emphasize organic and wholesome cooking.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Alta with these cultural adventures.