Top 15 Best Things To Do in Alta, Norway

Unlock adventure with the top 15 best things to do in Alta, your shortcut to the city’s most unforgettable experiences. Discover what makes Alta the standout of Arctic Norway, and start building your dream itinerary today!

Alta sits more than 43 miles (70 km) north of the Arctic Circle and gets over 2,000 hours of midnight sun every summer. Meanwhile, winter brings some of Europe’s most reliable northern lights. With a handful of unique attractions, paired with the largest selection of tours and tickets in Alta, the city is a must-visit in northern Norway.

Find your base with the best hotels and places to stay in Alta and settle in for an experience that’s anything but ordinary. Get a rental car in Alta and explore the city along with the rugged Arctic landscapes beyond. 

See what sets Alta apart. Experience seasons where winter stretches and summer never sleeps. Here are the top things to do in Alta, so you can build an itinerary you’ll never forget.

15. Celebrate Alta’s Festivals and Cultural Heritage

Season: Year-round

One of the most enjoyable things to do in Alta is to take part in the city’s local events and festivals. Alta’s calendar is packed year-round with cultural celebrations, unique races, and community gatherings that showcase the best of Arctic Norway. 

In February, Festivalta brings concerts and performances to town. March is all about Finnmarkslopet, the world’s northernmost dog sled race, where you can watch teams launch and finish across snowy landscapes. Meanwhile, the Borealis Winter Festival is celebrated for its impressive snow and ice art. 

In July, Offroad Finnmark turns Alta into a festival basecamp during the toughest wilderness bike race under the midnight sun. August features Alta Live and the annual Halddemarsjen hike, while Week 43 is dedicated to Sami language and culture. 

Visit Alta Tourist Information for updated dates and recommendations on what to see in Alta during your trip.

14. Go River Fishing and Kayak Alta’s Scenic Rivers

Season: Summer

River fishing, deep-sea angling, and kayaking are classic summer activities in Alta. If you have your sights set on the famous Alta River, keep in mind that fishing here is tightly controlled, and you’ll need a special permit. 

For most visitors, it’s much simpler (and just as rewarding) to try your luck in the inlets and coastal waters of Altafjord. You don’t need any special permit for guided deep-sea fishing trips, and you’ll have the chance to catch cod, haddock, pollock, redfish, or even halibut, all with expert support from local guides.

Kayaking and boat trips are another highlight among the best things to do in Alta. In Norway, solo paddlers and anyone renting a kayak typically need a “wet card” (våttkort), which just means you’ve done a basic safety course.

But if you’re joining a guided kayaking or canoe tour in Alta, you don’t need to worry about this at all. The outfitter handles everything, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy. 

Guided trips run from June through September and cover everything from peaceful forested stretches and farmland to the dramatic Alta Canyon. Keep an eye out for sea eagles and salmon along the way. 

Where to go: If you prefer calm water, kayak tours at Kvenvikmoen west of Alta are perfect for a peaceful day out.

13. Live Arctic Farm Life at an Authentic Homestead

Season: Summer

For a genuine taste of local culture, spending time on a working Arctic farm is one of the most rewarding things to do in Alta, Norway. At these traditional homesteads, you’ll see how families tend to their animals, cultivate hardy crops, and maintain a way of life that has persisted for generations in the far north. 

Many farms welcome guests to interact with friendly livestock, learn about local customs, and try hands-on activities like animal feeding or simple farm chores.

In summer, the peaceful Mathisdalen Valley bursts into green, with endless daylight setting the scene for a scenic sleigh ride to a family-run farm in Alta. You’ll travel through rural landscapes, stop for coffee and pastries, and get a glimpse of daily life in northern Norway.

These experiences usually include warm clothing and round-trip transport from Alta, so all you need to do is show up and enjoy the ride.

12. Explore Altafjord by Boat and Spot Arctic Wildlife

Season: Summer (wildlife and sightseeing cruises), Winter (whale watching safaris)

Exploring Altafjord by boat is one of the most memorable things to do in Alta. The fjord delivers a front-row seat to Arctic wildlife, rugged coastlines, and a mix of nature and history you won’t get on land.

Wildlife and Sightseeing Cruises (Summer)

During summer, exploring Altafjord by boat is one of the top things to do in Alta. Daily cruises from Alta harbor offer the chance to see white-tailed eagles, seabirds, and sometimes dolphins, while guides share stories about the area’s animals and World War II history.

Options like the 2-Hour Guided Adventure Cruise in Alta Fjord include warm overalls, life jackets, hot drinks, and snacks. For more excitement, RIB Expeditions to Seiland National Park speed across the fjord to Bekkarfjord, passing steep cliffs and quiet bays, often with sightings of seals or eagles.

Important: RIB tours are not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart or spinal conditions, due to their speed and impact on the water.

Ethical Whale Watching Safaris (Winter)

Come winter, the main event in Altafjord is whale watching. From November to January, orcas and humpback whales follow the herring into the fjord. Tour operators focus on respectful, low-impact viewing. Boat engines are turned off near the whales so you can watch in silence.

Options include Altafjord Whale Watching in a Heated Boat, which provides thermal suits, hot drinks, snacks, and a warm interior. Meanwhile, the Small-Group Whale Watching by RIB is for those who want a more adventurous, close-to-the-water experience. 

While sightings aren’t guaranteed, winter in Altafjord is the best time and place in northern Norway to witness orcas and humpbacks up close.

11. Step Back in Time at the Tirpitz Museum

Season: Summer (June 15 to August 31)

Photo by Ole Villund – Original photograph, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

A visit to the Tirpitz Museum in Kafjord easily earns its spot among the best things to do in Alta, especially if you’re interested in World War II history and the Arctic’s remarkable past.

Just 12 miles (20 km) from Alta, this unique museum is the life’s work of Even Blomkvist, a local who has spent years collecting nearly 3,000 photographs, old uniforms, ship items, and personal stories connected to the famous battleship Tirpitz.

The museum’s displays bring you right into the center of wartime Altafjord, which was once a large German navy base. Here, the huge Tirpitz (then the world’s largest battleship) hid from enemy attacks for almost two years, surrounded by ships like Scharnhorst and Lutzow. 

With striking photos and real objects, you’ll get a feel for the pressure, strength, and everyday life that shaped both the soldiers and the people living nearby.

Tirpitz Museum Visitor Information:

• Address: Kafjordveien 453, 9518 Alta, Norway
• Opening Hours: Daily 10:00–17:00; limited hours outside this period, so check ahead
• Parking: Free on-site
• Amenities: Gift shop, multilingual displays, accessible main exhibits

10. Admire Alta’s Iconic Northern Lights Cathedral

Season: Year-round

Few attractions in Alta are as unique as the Northern Lights Cathedral, designed to mirror the movement and glow of the aurora borealis. For anyone looking for things to do in Alta, the cathedral also offers a central starting point for exploring the city.

Opened in 2013 and designed by Kolbjorn Jensen, the cathedral stands in the center of Alta as a modern symbol of the “City of the Northern Lights.” Inside, you’ll find a gold-plated bronze Christ figure and bright, contemporary spaces decorated by artist Peter Brandes. The cathedral also hosts concerts, art exhibits, and local events all year.

Its unique design makes it a must-see for anyone searching for what to see in Alta. The Alta’s Most Iconic Sights Day Tour includes a visit to the cathedral. Meanwhile, the Small-Group Northern Lights Tour from Alta passes by, giving you the chance to photograph this striking landmark as you search for the aurora.

Northern Lights Cathedral Visitor Information:

• Location: Markedsgata 30, 9510 Alta
• Opening Hours: Mon–Fri, 11:00 to 13:00; Late spring and early fall: Mon–Fri, 10:00 to 14:00; Summer: Mon–Sat, 9:00  to 15:00; Sun, 13:00 to 15:00, Changes possible.
• Getting There: The cathedral is located in Alta’s city center and is easy to reach on foot or by bus.

9. Trek the Vast Finnmarksvidda Plateau on Foot 

Season: Summer (August–September)

If you’re wondering what to do in Alta beyond the usual sights, hiking the Finnmarksvidda Plateau is one of the most unforgettable outdoor experiences you can have in northern Norway. 

This endless expanse of Arctic wilderness is best explored on multi-day routes like the Old Postal Route, stretching 53 to 55 miles (85 to 88 km) from Alta to Karasjok. 

Treks typically set out from Ovre Stilla, at the top of the Tverrelvdalen Valley, opening straight onto open tundra, birch forests, and peaceful moorland. Nights are spent in a mix of tents and simple mountain lodges, some with saunas to ease tired muscles after a day on the trail.

August and September are the best months to hike, with fewer mosquitoes, colorful autumn scenery, and a good chance to see the northern lights at night. This makes hiking here one of the most memorable things to do in Alta, Norway.

But for a winter option, you can join a snowshoeing adventure to a frozen waterfall near Alta.

Good To Know Before Hiking the Finnmarksvidda Plateau

• Route: Old Postal Route (5 days, 853 to 55 miles (85 to 88 km), Alta to Karasjok).
• Accommodation: Tent camping and basic mountain lodges (many with saunas).
• Difficulty: Advanced; daily hikes of 9 to 15.5 miles (15 to 25 km), across hilly and uneven ground.
• Essentials: Good hiking boots, outdoor gear, and the ability to carry your own pack (some guided tours include husky support).
• Extras: Lakes and rivers for fishing (bring a light rod), limited phone coverage, and electricity for charging devices at lodges.

8. Rev Up a Snowmobile and Conquer Finnmarksvidda 

Season: Winter

A snowmobile safari on the Finnmarksvidda Plateau is among the most exciting things to do in Alta during winter. This high-adrenaline adventure lets you experience the Arctic wilderness up close as you cross snow-covered tundra and remote mountain landscapes that are otherwise impossible to reach. 

You can drive your own snowmobile (with a valid license) or ride as a passenger on the back, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Most tours allow you to switch drivers and passengers along the way, so both can take in the scenery and share the excitement.

Snowmobiling tours in Alta usually run from December to April and include round-trip transport from Alta, all safety equipment, and a short introduction to snowmobile operation. Both drivers (with a valid license) and passengers are welcome, and routes are led by knowledgeable guides who share local insights along the way.

Good To Know:

• Duration: 2 hours to full-day expeditions.
• What’s provided: Snowmobile, helmet, warm clothing, safety briefing, hot drinks, and light snacks.
• Terrain: Open plateaus, snowfields, and rugged landscapes with stops for photos.

7. Stay Overnight in Alta’s Enchanting Igloo Hotel 

Season: Winter

Photo by Helt – Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons.

Staying at the Igloo Hotel or even just visiting is among the most unforgettable things to do in Alta, especially for those curious about Arctic traditions and design.

Rebuilt from ice and snow each winter, the Igloo Hotel stands out for its creative design and seasonal atmosphere. With rooms, sculptures, an ice bar, a small chapel, and a sauna for overnight guests, the experience is never quite the same two years in a row. 

Day visitors are welcome to tour the hotel from 12:00 to 20:00, while overnight guests stay in thermal sleeping bags and have access to heated facilities for comfort.

Temperatures inside remain below freezing, so warm, layered clothing is essential. The adventure is best suited to those comfortable with winter conditions.

You can also combine your visit to the Igloo Hotel with outdoor activities, like a snowshoe hike to Gargia Foss, a frozen waterfall in the Alta Valley. This is a good way to see more of northern Norway’s winter landscape if you want to experience both unique architecture and Arctic nature in one trip.

Alta's Igloo Hotel Tourist Information:

• Location: Sorrisniva 20, Alta, 7.2 miles (11.5 km) from the center of Alta
• Check-in and Check-Out: 16:00 to 10:00
• Category: 5-star Hotel

Tips for Visiting the Igloo Hotel in Alta

• Book early, as overnight spaces are limited and fill quickly.
• Dress in several warm layers, expect sub-zero temperatures indoors.
• Bring only essentials into your ice room and store valuables in the heated building.
• Stay in the heated area before bedtime and go to your ice room only when ready to sleep.
• The experience is not recommended for travelers with health or mobility issues.

6. Speed Down Snowy Slopes on an Alta Sledding Tour 

Season: Winter

Sledding in Alta is a true winter experience, offering two distinct ways to explore the landscape: the fast-paced excitement of husky dog sledding and the quiet, scenic pace of a horse-drawn sleigh. 

Dog sledding tours in Alta are all about speed and teamwork. On a ride with Alta's Alaskan Huskies, you’ll race across the snowy landscape behind a team of energetic dogs, then unwind in a traditional Lavvo tent with hot drinks and stories from your guides. 

Meanwhile, a horse sledding tour in Altatakes you through forested valleys and open fields. The experience lets you take in the silence and beauty of Arctic winter, sometimes with the northern lights overhead.

Both activities are only available through organized tours, as local operators provide the sleds, safety equipment, and know the best routes. Most tours include transfers from downtown Alta, and booking in advance is strongly advised, since availability is limited during peak season. 

Tips for Your Sledding Adventure in Alta

• Wear base layers; guides will provide the main outerwear, but it helps to be prepared.
• Listen carefully to instructions for everyone’s safety, including the animals.
• Weather and animal well-being may affect the schedule; tours can be adjusted or canceled if needed.
• Most tours include transfers from Alta’s Tourist Information Center or downtown Alta; some let you meet at the farm or trailhead.
• Ask your guides about the history of sledding in the region; they’re passionate about sharing local traditions.

5. Marvel at the Majestic Arctic Views of Alta Canyon

Season: Summer

If you’re looking for what to do in Alta that takes you out into true Arctic wilderness, exploring Alta Canyon is a must. Located just south of the city, this immense canyon plunges over 1,300 feet (400 meters) and stretches for more than 6 miles (10 km), making it Northern Europe’s largest canyon and a dramatic highlight for any summer visit.

In summer, you can experience Alta Canyon by hiking the marked trail from Gargia Fjellstue, an 8-mile (13 km) round-trip with mostly gentle terrain and a steep final descent to the viewpoint.

E-biking from Stilla is another option, though access can vary during reindeer herding season. For a different angle, join a guided riverboat or canoe trip from Sorrisniva. Access to the dam and the protected southern end is only possible on a guided tour.

Alta Canyon appears on every tourist map of Alta, Norway, for a reason. If you want to experience dramatic landscapes far from city crowds, this canyon is one of the top Alta Norway attractions and a solid answer for what to do in Alta when you’re craving wide-open, wild spaces.

What to Know Before Visiting Alta Canyon

• Trailhead: The last 2.8 miles (4.5 km) to Gargia Fjellstue is a rough road; drive slowly.
• Facilities: There are no shops or amenities at the viewpoint. Bring water, snacks, and layers for the weather.
• Camping: Wild camping is allowed at least 150 meters from any buildings.
• Wildlife: Reindeer are common in the area; keep an eye out for other Arctic animals.
• Hiking level: Easy to moderate, but take care on the steep descent.

4. Dive Into Sami Culture and Time-Honored Traditions 

Best Time To Go: Winter

When you’re mapping out the essential things to do in Alta, getting close to Sami culture is an experience that simply can’t be missed. The indigenous Sami people have shaped Arctic Norway for centuries, and Alta is one of the best places to connect with their traditions all year round.

Through a Sami culture and reindeer experience in Alta, you can meet local herders, join reindeer sled rides (some at night for a shot at the northern lights), and try your hand at classic skills like lasso throwing or reindeer feeding. 

Many visits take place inside a lavvu (a traditional tent) where guides share Sami stories, customs, and even joik, the distinctive Sami song. If you want a true taste of Arctic life, there are opportunities to enjoy a meal featuring reindeer or salmon, homemade cakes, and coffee by the fire.

Some experiences go further, letting you join herders for the day or even stay overnight in a lavvu for a true insider’s view. No matter which you choose, expect hands-on activities, stories that add depth to Alta's top things to do, and a real sense of connection to the land and its people. (If you’re hungry for more options, check out the Alta Sami Culture, Lavvu, and Reindeers Experience as well.)

Location: Oytunveien 4, Ovre Alta, 9518 Alta, Norway (Sami Siida)

Tips for Sami Cultural Experiences

• Dress for the Arctic. Warm layers are a must; overalls are provided in winter.
• Book in advance, especially in winter or for overnight stays, as places fill up quickly
• Not all activities are suitable for pregnant travelers or those with limited mobility; check details before you go.
• You’ll usually find a cozy restaurant or a lavvu pub on-site. Don’t miss a traditional Sami meal.

3. Discover Ancient UNESCO Rock Art at Alta Museum 

Season: Year-round

No other place in the region brings you closer to ancient Arctic life than the Alta Museum and its UNESCO-listed Rock Art. Exploring these prehistoric carvings is one of the most powerful things to do in Alta, Norway. An experience that puts you in direct contact with Stone Age stories, animals, and rituals that have survived more than 7,000 years of polar weather. 

Set along the Altafjord in Hjemmeluft, the museum features over 6,000 petroglyphs (rock carvings) and pictographs (rock paintings), with outdoor walkways open from late May to October. 

Indoors, you’ll find exhibitions on prehistoric culture and Sami and Kven heritage. The Sami and Kven are two of the region’s Indigenous peoples. There are also displays about the northern lights and the history of fishing and trade. You can relax at the panoramic cafe with wide views or browse the museum shop for local gifts.

Alta Museum is widely regarded as one of the top cultural attractions in northern Norway. It’s a must-see for anyone wondering what to do in Alta, especially those drawn to history, archaeology, or the depth of human creativity in the north.

Alta Museum and Rock Art Visitor Information

• Location: Altaveien 19, 9512 Alta, 2.5 miles (4 km) from the city center (on foot, by car, taxi, or bus).
• Best time to visit: Outdoor trails are open late May to October; the indoor museum is open year-round.
• Facilities: Cafe with fjord views, museum shop, accessible restrooms.
• Tickets (2025): Children up to 6 years old can enter for free. Winter tickets are generally cheaper, and discounts are available for seniors, students, and older children. For the most current details, including the Alta Museum’s ticket prices and opening hours, please visit the official website.
• Time needed: 2–3 hours for both indoor and outdoor exhibitions.
• Trails: Short route: 0.7 miles (1.2 km); long route: 1.9 miles (3 km), with easy boardwalks.
• Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for outdoor trails and bring a camera; interpretive signs add valuable context.

2. Soak Up Endless Daylight During Alta’s Midnight Sun 

Season: Summer

How often do you get to experience a place where the sun never sets? From mid-May to late July, Alta turns into a world of endless daylight, thanks to the midnight sun. It’s one of those things to do in Alta that feels almost unreal.

Locals absolutely make the most of these weeks. You’ll see people climbing to the Komsatoppen Viewpoint for that perfect midnight view, out kayaking or cycling long after dinner, or gathering for summer festivals that stretch late into the "night." 

If you’re looking for what to do in Alta during the midnight sun, just step outside. The simplest activities, such as walking by the Altafjord, spotting wildlife, or even just hanging out with friends, take on a magical feel during this time.

If you want to experience more, you can join tours designed around the midnight sun. You can take a guided hike to catch panoramic views, paddle a kayak on the fjord late at night, or join a boat trip under the bright sky.

Midnight Sun Photography Tips:

• Go for the colors: The sky glows with shades of gold, pink, and deep blue. Lean into these natural tones for show-stopping images.
• Keep it simple: Focus on one or two main subjects. The light is so strong, you don’t need much more.
• Use the foreground: Add interest with rocks, wildflowers, or even a silhouetted friend for depth.
• Play with the horizon: Try placing the horizon low in the frame to let the sky dominate your shot.
• Take lots of shots: The light changes fast. Sometimes the best moment is just a few minutes away.

1. Chase the Northern Lights Across Alta’s Arctic Skies

Season: Winter (Peak viewing time from 21:00 to 2:00)

Nothing compares to the thrill of spotting the northern lights in Alta. For many, it’s the ultimate Arctic experience. If you’re hoping to see the aurora, you’re in the right place. 

Alta is known as the City of the Northern Lights and is one of the most reliable spots in Europe, thanks to its clear skies, minimal light pollution, and long tradition of northern lights research. With a little patience, you’ll watch bands of color dance above snowy hills and quiet forests, making every moment outdoors worthwhile.

How to Catch the Northern Lights in Alta

Start with the basics. Check the real-time aurora forecast for current northern lights activity in Alta. You’re looking for clear, cloudless skies. These give you the best chance at a show. Peak viewing season runs from late September to early April, with the brightest, most frequent displays between December and March.

Find a spot away from city lights. Komsatoppen (the city’s main viewpoint), Lathari Beach, and the remote plateau at Suolovuopmi are all local favorites. Patience is essential; sometimes the lights burst out in minutes. Other nights, you’ll want a thermos of coffee and a warm jacket while you wait.

Northern Lights Photography Tips

• Use a tripod and long exposure for the best results.
• Manual camera settings are ideal: high ISO, low aperture, focus set to infinity.
• Don’t have a DSLR? Newer phones with “night mode” do a solid job.
• Frame your shot with trees, a cabin, or snowy hills for more interest.

Many travelers decide to join a small-group guided northern lights tour in Alta or an aurora hunt with a professional photographer. The evening ATV aurora safari in Alta is another popular option. 

Northern lights tours in Alta are a practical way to make the most of your time, with less guesswork involved. Local guides know where to find the clearest skies and handle all the driving for you, which is especially helpful on icy Arctic roads. They can also help you set up your camera for the best possible photos.

If you prefer to chase the aurora on your own, you’ll likely need to rent a car in Alta to reach the best viewing spots, since most are outside the city center. DIY aurora hunting is part of the adventure, but winter roads can be tricky. So be prepared and plan carefully.

How To Get To Alta

The city is well-connected by Alta Airport, which offers direct flights from Oslo and other major Norwegian cities. You can also reach Alta by road, driving scenic highways across northern Norway. Or, by boat if you’re coming from nearby coastal towns like Hammerfest or Honningsvag. For up-to-date travel options, see available flights to Alta and car rentals in Norway for maximum flexibility.

Where To Stay in Alta 

Choose from comfortable city hotels, cozy guesthouses, or the unique Igloo Hotel rebuilt from ice each winter. Explore the best hotels in Alta to find the perfect fit for your trip.

How To Book Tours in Alta

Most Arctic adventures, including northern lights safaris, Sami culture experiences, and dog sledding tours, can be booked online in advance or in person at the Alta Tourist Information Center. For ideas and recommendations, browse the best tours and tickets in Alta with 24/7 support, or check out customizable travel packages to Alta that can also save you money.

Alta Weather and Seasonal Travel Tips

Alta’s Arctic climate can change quickly, so pack with the season in mind. In winter, dress in multiple warm layers, check local weather forecasts often, and allow extra time for travel on icy roads. In summer, bring windproof clothing and be ready for sudden temperature shifts, even under the midnight sun. For detailed seasonal advice, see the best time to visit Norway guide.