Alta
in Norway

Alta

Alta is a city in the northernmost region of Norway, located in the county of Finnmark. It is situated on the Altafjorden, an inlet of the Barents Sea. The city has a population of around 23,000, making it the largest urban area in Finnmark.

Alta is a major center for fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities, due to its location in the Arctic Circle. It is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with its mountains, fjords, and forests providing a picturesque backdrop to the city.

The city has a long history, first being settled by the Sami people, who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. Alta has been a part of the Norwegian kingdom since the 13th century, and it was granted city status in 1799.

In the 19th century, Alta was an important trading center, and it experienced a period of rapid growth and development. In the 20th century, it was the site of the construction of the Alta Dam, a major hydroelectric project.

Alta is also known for its unique cultural heritage, with the Sami culture being important to the city. The Sami language is still spoken in the area, and the city hosts the annual Alta Sami Festival, which celebrates the culture and history of the Sami people.

The city is also home to the Northern Lights Cathedral, which was built in the late 1960s and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Alta is also home to the Alta Museum, which houses artifacts from the area’s long and varied history.

Experience Alta with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Alta. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Alta

Alta in Norway experiences a subarctic climate with cold, long winters and mild, short summers. In winter, temperatures hover around -9°C with frequent snowfall and short days. Spring sees temperatures rise to around 4°C with increasing daylight hours, and by summer temperatures reach an average of 13°C with long days and occasional rain. Autumn brings a return to colder temperatures, with temperatures dropping to around -3°C and snowfall becoming more frequent. Overall, Alta experiences a cold climate with distinct seasonal changes.

Cruise weather for Alta

Our weather forecast for Alta helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Galery: Alta

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