Top 10 Best Things to Do in Alta, Norway in Summer

Alta, located far above the Arctic Circle in Norwegian Lapland, is one of Europe’s best off-the-beaten-track summer destinations. This small city of 20,000 residents offers a unique blend of Arctic nature, rich Sami culture, and outdoor adventures under the midnight sun. If you’re planning a trip to Alta in summer, here are the top 10 unforgettable things to do.

1. See the Alta Rock Carvings (UNESCO Site)

👉 Where: Alta Museum
🎟️ Tip: Walk the scenic outdoor trail along the fjord while discovering the carvings.

2. Explore Alta Canyon (Sautso Canyon)

Hike to Europe’s northernmost and largest canyon — the breathtaking Alta Canyon. Join a guided hike or take a helicopter tour for jaw-dropping views. You can also visit the impressive dam, part of the Alta River hydroelectric project.

🗺️ Top tip: Book a helicopter tour for the best aerial views of the canyon and surrounding wilderness.

3. Go on a Boat Tour on the Alta River

The Alta River is one of the world’s best salmon rivers, attracting anglers from around the globe. Take a traditional riverboat tour to soak in the Arctic landscape — and maybe spot some salmon jumping!

🐟 Fun fact: Some of the largest Atlantic salmon in the world have been caught here.

4. Experience Sami Culture Firsthand

Visit a Sami Siida to meet the Indigenous people of the north. Learn about their traditional lifestyle, hear the ancient ‘joik’ songs, taste bidos (a hearty reindeer stew), and step inside a lavvo (Sami tent).

🦌 Tip: Great for families and cultural travelers looking for an authentic experience.

5. Relax at Charming Summer Cafés

Alta has a cozy café scene perfect for relaxing between adventures.

☕ Top picks:

Trasti & Trine Summer Café – Gourmet pastries and coffee in a forest setting

Mannsverk Gård – Local bakery, café, and farm shop selling meats and homemade goods

Holmen Husky Puppy Café – Enjoy a treat while cuddling adorable husky pups

6. Stay in a Summer Igloo or Glass Dome

Experience the magic of Arctic living by staying in unique accommodations like the glass domes or summer igloos offered by Glød Explorer. Fall asleep under the midnight sun with panoramic views of nature.

🏕️ Why go: It’s a bucket-list stay you’ll never forget.

7. Watch the Midnight Sun

From mid-May to late July, Alta enjoys 24 hours of daylight. Watching the sun hover above the horizon at midnight is a surreal experience.

🌞 Tip: Take a midnight sun cruise on the fjord for an unforgettable golden-hour glow.

8. Visit the Northern Lights Cathedral

This architectural gem in the heart of Alta is shaped like a spiral and made of shimmering titanium. While it’s named after the northern lights, it’s worth visiting in summer for its modern design and peaceful atmosphere.

⛪ Don’t miss: The interactive Northern Lights exhibition in the basement.

9. Discover Seiland National Park

A short boat ride from Alta takes you to Seiland National Park — a hidden gem of dramatic fjords, glaciers, and mountains. Perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

🥾 Adventure level: Moderate to challenging
🛶 Bonus: You might spot seals or sea eagles.

10. Hike to Halddetoppen (Northern Lights Observatory)

Hike up to Halddetoppen, where the world’s first Northern Lights observatory was built in 1899. The trail offers panoramic views over Alta and the surrounding fjords — perfect for adventurous travelers.

📏 Hike: 9 km each way – allow 6–8 hours
📸 Pro tip: Bring snacks, water, and your camera. The views are worth it.

⏱️ Short on time? If your schedule doesn’t allow for a full-day hike, we recommend the Orrvas Waterfall trail instead. This scenic hike starts at Gargia Fjellstue and ends at a beautiful waterfall, making it a great half-day adventure in stunning Arctic nature.

Bonus Idea for Rainy Days

Nordlysbadet: A modern indoor swimming complex with pools, saunas, and jacuzzis — perfect for families or a relaxing break.