The Town Where the Northern Lights Illuminate Ancient Ruins! 4 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Alta, Norway

At the northernmost tip of Norway, in Finnmark County, lies the town of Alta—a place filled with stunning natural landscapes that only the far north can offer. From majestic fjords to the Northern Lights in winter and the Midnight Sun in summer, Alta provides experiences unlike anything you can find in most countries.

Additionally, Alta is home to prehistoric rock carvings, which have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, proving that people have lived in this remote northern region since ancient times.
In this article, we’ll introduce some of the best tourist attractions in Alta. If you’re planning a trip to Scandinavia, be sure to use this as a guide!

1. Rock Art of Alta

Discovered in 1973, the Rock Art of Alta was initially covered in moss, which helped preserve it in remarkable condition. Even today, the carvings remain vibrant, showcasing their ancient artistic beauty. With over 5,000 carvings, these rock artworks were created over nearly 5,000 years, dating back to 4500 BCE. The engravings were etched into granite surfaces and then painted, making them appear as if they were brought back to life from an ancient era.

The carvings depict hunting, fishing, and various animals, reflecting the evolution of human life over time. The reindeer is particularly prominent, appearing across all periods, highlighting its significance to the people of Alta from ancient times to the present. The Rock Art of Alta is preserved at the Alta Museum, where visitors can explore this incredible piece of history.

2. The Northern Lights Cathedral

Located in the heart of Alta, the Northern Lights Cathedral is one of the most accessible and must-visit tourist attractions in the area. Completed in 2013, this modern cathedral was built as a replacement for an older church, creating a new sacred space for the town. Its spiral-shaped bell tower and titanium-clad exterior embody contemporary Scandinavian design, while the warm lighting inside makes for a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere.

Additionally, the cathedral houses the Northern Lights Museum, which explores the history of aurora observation. Interestingly, Alta was the first town in the world to conduct Northern Lights research, making this museum a fascinating place to learn about how past civilizations interpreted this natural wonder. In winter, ice sculptures are displayed outside the cathedral, adding to its enchanting appeal.

3. The Ice Hotel

If you’re visiting Alta in winter, why not stay at the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, more commonly known as the Ice Hotel? Ice hotels have become popular attractions in snowy regions worldwide, and Alta is no exception—this magical winter retreat is a tourist attraction in itself!

The Ice Hotel features a bar and restaurant, with tables, chairs, and even drinking glasses made entirely of ice. To add a Scandinavian touch, the interiors are decorated with reindeer hides, enhancing the authentic Arctic experience. There’s no need to worry about the cold—the hotel provides specialized sleeping gear and saunas to ensure a comfortable stay.

The Ice Hotel is open from mid-December to early April, making it an ideal accommodation choice during the Northern Lights season. If you're coming to Alta for aurora viewing, staying at this one-of-a-kind hotel is an unforgettable experience!

4. Activities (Alta Tourist Information Center)

Alta is part of Finnmark County, which belongs to the Lapland region—a vast area inhabited by the Sámi people, spanning Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Russia. The Sámi people have a unique culture, and participating in cultural experience tours is one of the most popular activities in Alta.

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the chance to experience dog sledding or reindeer sleigh rides. The reindeer sled rides are often included in Sámi cultural tours, making them a highly recommended activity. You can also join Northern Lights tours or, if visiting in summer, enjoy cycling excursions through the Arctic landscapes.

You can book these experiences online or arrange them at the Alta Tourist Information Center. Don’t miss the chance to join a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic adventure that can only be experienced in Alta!

◎ Summary

We've introduced Alta, the northernmost town in Norway, and its must-visit tourist spots. Alta has its own airport, making it one of the more accessible Arctic towns for travelers.

From fjords and the Midnight Sun to Northern Lights and snowy landscapes, Alta has captivated people since ancient times. The traces of early human civilization, seen in its UNESCO-listed rock carvings, are a must-see for history enthusiasts.

If you're planning a trip to Scandinavia, be sure to add Alta to your itinerary for a truly unforgettable Arctic experience!

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The Town Where the Northern Lights Illuminate Ancient Ruins! 4 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Alta, Norway