Alta 3 Day Travel Itinerary
Alta, Norway is one of those places that feels like a secret you almost don’t want to share. Tucked away in the northern reaches of the country, it has a quiet charm that catches you off guard. When we first visited, we expected a frozen outpost with little more than snow and silence, but what we found was a city full of life, stories, and that calm, Arctic beauty that stays with you long after you’ve gone. If you’re planning a travel itinerary for northern Norway, Alta deserves a spot near the top of your list. It’s a destination that blends nature, culture, and adventure in a way that feels both grounding and inspiring.
As you start thinking about your travel itinerary, you’ll find that Alta offers an unusual mix of experiences. You can walk through ancient rock carvings one moment, then watch the sky come alive with the Northern Lights the next. Locals call it the City of the Northern Lights for good reason. Out of nowhere, streaks of green light began to swirl above, like paint brushed across the sky. It’s the kind of moment that no photo can capture. When you’re looking for things to do in Alta Norway, that’s one you won’t want to miss.
Beyond its natural magic, Alta has a warm and down-to-earth character. People here smile easily and seem genuinely proud of their home. There’s a sense of community that makes you feel welcome even if you’ve just arrived. You might find yourself chatting with someone over a plate of reindeer stew, and before you know it, they’re sharing local tips about hidden viewpoints or quiet walking trails.
If you enjoy history, you’ll love exploring Alta’s past. The Alta Museum gives a glimpse into life thousands of years ago through ancient rock carvings that tell stories of hunters, fishermen, and early Arctic communities. I remember tracing the lines of those carvings with my eyes, trying to imagine what life felt like when those drawings were made. It’s humbling, standing there and realizing that people have been connected to this land for over 6,000 years. Including that stop in your travel itinerary gives you a sense of how deep Alta’s roots really go.
Adventure seekers have plenty of things to do in Alta Norway too. Whether it’s dog sledding across wide, snowy plateaus, snowmobiling through silent forests, or spending a night inside the Sorrisniva Ice Hotel, there’s no shortage of experiences that make you feel alive. When you’re piecing together your travel itinerary, adding something wild like that gives your trip a sense of adventure that perfectly matches Alta’s spirit.
Summer brings a completely different side of the city. Midnight sun replaces the long winter nights, and everything feels full of light and energy. You can hike through the nearby Finnmark Plateau, go river fishing, or kayak along the fjord while the sun hangs low but never sets. There are so many things to do in Alta Norway that it’s almost impossible to fit them all into one visit.
What makes Alta special is its balance. You can find peace in its quiet landscapes, but also feel the thrill of Arctic adventure. You can connect with its ancient past while still feeling completely present in your own journey. Planning a travel itinerary here isn’t about checking off tourist spots. It’s about slowing down, breathing in cold, clear air, and letting the rhythm of life above the Arctic Circle pull you in. Once you experience it for yourself, you’ll understand why so many people who visit Alta can’t wait to return.
3 DAY ALTA TRAVEL ITINERARY
DAY 1
Arrive & Check into Hotel
Visit a Sami Reindeer Farm
The Sami reindeer farm is very accessible and the owners are very friendly and helpful. You will learn a lot about the Sami culture and meet the adorable reindeer.
https://www.samisiida.no
Chase the Northern Lights
We would recommend taking a Northern Lights tour on your first night. We went with Alta Adventure, which we would highly recommend.
DAY 2
Dog Sledding
If you haven’t gone Dog Sledding before then this is a must do!
Ice Hotel
Visit the Ice Hotel
Dinner
Enjoy farm to table Norwegian food. The food here was so good we ate here twice. You should definitely make reservations in advance though, and don’t be put off by what you may eat. Treat it as an experience, and for one night only risk eating something you may not do otherwise. We ate Elk when we were there and it was delicious!
Chase the Northern Lights
If you feel comfortable venture out by yourself to see the Northern Lights.
DAY 3
Northern Lights Cathedral
This is short visit but the inside is worth seeing for sure. It’s in the center so if you are staying in one of the central hotels this is an easy thing to do, and if you are staying outside the center it is where the majority of restaurants are so you can tie it with a visit for lunch.
https://visitalta.no/en/product/visit-the-northern-lights-cathedral/
Alta Museum (if open)
See ancient rock carvings and enjoy a beautiful walk on the edge of the fjord.
https://www.altamuseum.no/en/
Drive along Altafjord for unforgettable views.
Continue your drive past Alta Museum and enjoy the views of the fjord. Make sure to pull off in each parking opportunity to enjoy the amazing views, and waterfalls at the side of the road.
Take a trip to see King Crab and enjoy the beautiful views on the Fjord.
Bonus Days
DAY 4
Alta Canyon or Orvvosfossen Waterfall Hike (weather dependent)
We enjoyed the Orvvosfossen Waterfall Hike though it was challenging in places but the pay off at the end was spectacular.
DAY 5
Hammerfest
Take a day trip to Hammerfest. Claimed to be the most northernmost town in Europe.
The drive is spectacular from Alta, but be careful for reindeer in the road.