Alta Travel Guide (Finnmark/Northern Norway/Norway/Nordic countries/Europe)

Introduction to Alta

Located in Finnmark, in Northern Norway, Alta is a small town known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. With a population of just over 20,000 people, Alta is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a quiet escape into nature. This comprehensive travel guide to Alta will help you discover the town’s top attractions, best time to visit, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Alta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Alta is home to a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore the town’s history through its museums and historical sites. The Alta Museum, located on the banks of the Altafjord, showcases the region’s rock art dating back to the Stone Age. Visitors can also explore the Tirpitz Museum, which tells the story of the German warship of the same name that was sunk off the coast of Norway during World War II. Other cultural attractions include the Northern Lights Cathedral and the Alta Church, both of which showcase stunning architecture and design.

Natural Attractions of Alta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural beauty of Alta is unparalleled, and visitors can explore the region’s outdoor adventures and scenic views. The town is located in the heart of the Aurora Belt, which means that visitors have a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights during the winter months. Other outdoor adventures include dog sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. During the summer months, visitors can hike in the nearby mountains, go fishing in the rivers and fjords, or take a boat tour to explore the stunning coastline.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Alta

Alta is a haven for hikers and bikers, with numerous trails and paths that wind through the mountains and along the coast. The Finnmark Plateau is a popular destination for hikers looking to experience the Arctic wilderness, while the Alta River is a popular spot for fishing and hiking. Visitors can also explore the nearby Kåfjorddalen Valley, which offers stunning views and challenging terrain.

Best Things to Do in Alta: Activities and Tours

Visitors to Alta can choose from a wide range of activities and tours to experience the best of the region. Some popular tours include husky and reindeer sledding, snowmobile tours, and boat tours to explore the fjords. During the summer months, visitors can take a midnight sun tour, which offers stunning views of the sun never setting over the horizon. Other popular activities include ice-fishing, kayaking, and mountain biking.

Week-Long Itinerary for Alta

For visitors looking to maximize their time in Alta, we recommend a week-long itinerary that includes a mix of cultural activities and outdoor adventures. Day one can be spent exploring the Alta Museum and the Northern Lights Cathedral, while day two can include a visit to the Tirpitz Museum and a scenic drive along the coast. Days three to five can be dedicated to outdoor adventures like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and hiking, and day six can be spent exploring the nearby Kåfjorddalen Valley. The week can end with a relaxing boat tour of the stunning fjords.

Food and Drink Scene of Alta

Must-Try Dishes

Alta is known for its fresh seafood and reindeer meat dishes. Some popular dishes include reindeer stew, cod, and salmon. Visitors can also try traditional Sami cuisine, which includes dishes made with reindeer meat and local herbs and spices.

Local Beverages

Norway is famous for its aquavit, a distilled spirit made from potatoes and flavored with herbs and spices. Visitors can also try local beers and ciders, or the traditional hot drink of gløgg, which is similar to mulled wine.

Where to Stay in Alta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors to Alta can choose from a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The Thon Hotel Alta is a popular choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and convenient stay in the town center, while the Altafjord Gjestegaard & Spa offers stunning views of the fjord. For budget-conscious travelers, the Alta Hostel & Motell and the Havnescene Guesthouse offer affordable accommodations in central locations.

What to Buy in Alta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Alta can bring home a piece of the region’s culture with traditional Sami handicrafts, like jewelry and woven blankets. Reindeer leather products, like gloves and hats, are also popular souvenirs. Foodies can bring home local delicacies like smoked salmon, reindeer jerky, and aquavit.

Local Culture and Customs of Alta

The Sami people have a rich cultural heritage in the region, and visitors to Alta can learn about their traditions and customs through museums and cultural events. The Northern Lights Festival, held annually in February, showcases traditional music and dance from the Sami people and other Nordic cultures. Visitors should also be respectful of the local reindeer herders, who use the land for their livelihoods.

Best Time to Visit Alta

The best time to visit Alta depends on your interests. The winter months, from November to February, are the best time to see the Northern Lights and participate in winter activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling. The summer months, from June to August, offer long days with midnight sun tours and hiking. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer fewer crowds and more affordable prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Alta

Do:

Respect the local culture and customs of the Sami people
Be prepared for changing weather conditions
Take advantage of the outdoor adventures and stunning natural beauty

Don’t:

Disturb the local reindeer herders
Leave any trash or waste in outdoor areas
Underestimate the strength of the Arctic wilderness

Safety and Health

Safety in Alta

Alta is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should be aware of the potential hazards of outdoor adventures like hiking and snowmobiling. Always follow safety guidelines and advice from local guides.

Health in Alta

Norway has a highly developed healthcare system, and visitors can access medical services if needed. However, travelers should always have travel insurance that covers emergency medical services.

Getting to Alta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Alta

The nearest airport to Alta is the Alta Airport, located just outside of the town center. Other nearby airports include the Hammerfest Airport and the Lakselv Airport.

Bus Stations Near Alta

Alta is easily accessible by bus, with daily services from cities like Tromsø and Kirkenes. The Finnmarksekspressen and Troms Mobillett are two popular bus companies that offer services to Alta.

Other Options

Visitors can also access Alta by car, with Highway E6 and the scenic National Tourist Route running through the town. The Hurtigruten, a popular coastal ferry service, also stops in Alta.

How to Get Around in Alta

Visitors to Alta can access most attractions on foot, as the town is small and easy to navigate. However, for longer journeys or to explore the surrounding area, visitors can rent a car or take a local bus or taxi.

Where to Go Next from Alta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For visitors looking to explore more of Northern Norway, Tromsø is a popular destination just a few hours’ drive from Alta. Kirkenes, located on the Russian border, offers a unique cultural and historical experience. The North Cape, the northernmost point in Europe, is also a popular excursion from Alta.

Conclusion

Alta is a hidden gem in the heart of Northern Norway, offering visitors stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. With this comprehensive travel guide to Alta, visitors can make the most of their trip and discover the best of this unique destination.

Alta Image Gallery

Northern lights mirrored in lake at Alta

Sautso Canyon (Sami: Čávžu) with Alta river

Langfjorden with road E6 connection to Lyngen and Tromsø.

Alta rock carvings