Everything you need to know for you upcoming adventure to…Norway!

Visiting Norway in winter feels like stepping into a fairytale. The landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, wrapped in a peaceful, cozy atmosphere. One of the absolute highlights? The Northern Lights. Seeing them dance across the Arctic sky was a magical experience I’ll never forget.

It was my first time in Norway, and I couldn’t have chosen a better season. While I’m sure it’s equally stunning in the summer with its lush greenery and long days, there’s something uniquely enchanting about Norway in winter, it just feels more magical, more serene. I don’t regret visiting during the cold season at all. In fact, I’d do it again in a heartbeat.. 

We spent 7 unforgettable days in Norway, 2 nights in Oslo to soak in the city vibes, and 5 nights in Northern Norway, where we experienced some truly incredible adventures. Even though our trip was filled with outdoor activities and Arctic excitement, there was something wonderfully calming and peaceful about our time there. It struck the perfect balance between thrilling and relaxing.

So if you’re planning a trip and wondering when to go, where to stay, and most importantly, what to do, keep reading. I’ve put together everything you need to know to help you fall in love with Norway, just like I did.

Best time to go?

It all depends on your preferences, of course, but if you’re anything like me and absolutely love snow and winter, then Norway in winter is a must. From November to March, the country transforms into a white wonderland. Just keep in mind that if you’re visiting during the darkest months, like December or January, daylight is very limited. When I stayed in Northern Norway at the beginning of February, we had about 4 to 5 hours of daylight, with the sun setting around 3 PM.

That said, winter in Norway has one major advantage: it’s the only time of year when you can witness the magical northern lights dancing across the sky. And trust me, it’s worth braving the cold for that experience alone.

In contrast, summer in Northern Norway offers a completely different but equally fascinating experience: the midnight sun. During this time, the sun doesn’t set at all, daylight lasts 24 hours! If you’re not used to this phenomenon, it can feel surreal but also incredibly energizing. Imagine going on a hike at midnight with the sun still shining above the horizon. It’s truly something special.

So in the end, it really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for, winter with snow-covered landscapes and northern lights, or endless summer days under the midnight sun. Either way, Norway won’t disappoint.

How to get there?

There are plenty of flight options to Oslo, as it’s the capital and largest city in Norway. I flew with Lufthansa from Frankfurt, which was super convenient and smooth.

Getting to Alta, however, is a bit different. Since it’s located around 1,800 km north of Oslo, there are fewer airlines flying up there. We chose Norwegian Air, which offers daily connections to Alta — and it turned out to be a great choice. Another option is SAS Airlines, which also operates flights to Northern Norway. Just make sure to check the schedules in advance, especially in winter when weather conditions can affect travel plans.

Renting car?

If there’s one piece of advice I can confidently give, rent a car if you have the chance! While Norway does have excellent public transportation, having a rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially in Northern Norway where distances between attractions can be quite large.

Public transport is definitely a good option, especially if you’re not comfortable driving in snowy conditions. But it can also be limiting, particularly if you’re hoping to chase the Northern Lights in the middle of the night or want to explore more remote areas. With a rental car, you’re in control of your schedule and can make spontaneous detours — which is half the fun!

In Oslo, however, you won’t need a car. The public transportation system is efficient and everything in the city is quite close together, so it’s easy to get around without driving.

Once you’re in Alta, you can conveniently pick up a rental car directly at the airport. All the major rental companies are there, including Avis, Budget, Europcar or Alta Bilutleie ANS. Just make sure to book your car in advance, especially during the busy winter season!

Driving conditions?

If you decide to visit Norway in winter, be prepared to drive in real winter conditions. And by “real,” I mean roads that are often covered in thick ice — which, according to Norwegians, are still considered good road conditions! But don’t worry too much, as long as your car is equipped with spiked tires (which is standard in Norway during winter), you’ll be able to drive safely.

What you should be more cautious about are snowstorms. The weather in Northern Norway can change very quickly, and when a snowstorm hits, visibility can drop to nearly zero. It can feel like snow is coming at you from every direction, and the road can completely disappear beneath it. The best thing you can do in those moments is to stay calm and wait it out if needed. Don’t push it, safety first, always.

Currency & Costs?

The currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK). If you’re traveling from abroad, you’ll need to exchange your currency. To give you an idea: 1 NOK is roughly 0.0845 Euro (EUR), which means that 1 EUR equals about 11.83 NOK. It’s important to note that exchange rates fluctuate regularly, so it’s advisable to check the current rate before making any currency exchanges or financial decisions.​.

Norway is known to be quite expensive, especially when it comes to things like alcohol. So be prepared and bring enough money with you — though the good news is that credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, even in remote areas. 

Below is a suggested 7-day road trip itinerary for Norway, designed to help you discover some of the country’s most stunning landscapes and charming towns Of course, feel free to adjust the itinerary based on your interests, travel pace, or time available. Norway is full of surprises, and every detour can turn into a magical experience! 

Oslo – Alta – Honningsvag – North Cape – Alta

Where to start and end your Norway Road Trip?

Oslo was both the starting and ending point of our trip to Norway, making it a convenient and accessible base, especially with its well-connected airport and transport links. We spent one week in Norway, which, honestly, is far too short to truly take in everything this incredible country has to offer. While the main focus of our journey was Northern Norway, where the landscapes become truly magical, Oslo gave us the perfect introduction to the Norwegian way of life.

Oslo – 2 nights

As the capital of Norway, Oslo is a must-see destination, and even though we only had 24 hours to explore, I can tell that this city has so much more to offer than what we could experience in a day. From vibrant cultural scenes to historical landmarks and stunning waterfronts, Oslo is a dynamic and welcoming city. Whether you’re into museums, parks, or local cuisine, there’s something for everyone here. If you’re planning a trip to Norway, be sure to dedicate at least a day to discover the essence of Oslo, it’s a perfect introduction to the country.

Read next: Oslo in 24 hours

Viking Ship Museum

The Viking Ship Museum is located just a bit outside of Oslo’s city center, but getting there is a breeze with a short bus ride. This museum is an integral part of Norway’s history and offers a fascinating glimpse into the Viking era. It’s home to three remarkable Viking ships, each more impressive than the last, along with a variety of other Viking artifacts such as beds, horse carts, tents, and even clothing, giving you a deep insight into the Viking way of life.

The Viking Ship Museum is now closed for rebuilding. We will reopen as the Museum of the Viking Age in 2027.

The museum’s most famous exhibit is the Oseberg Ship, which is almost perfectly preserved. It was discovered between 1904 and 1905 by Norwegian and Swedish archaeologists in a burial mound, alongside numerous grave goods and two female human skeletons. The ship itself dates back over 800 years but was likely interred around 834 AD. Another significant ship on display is the Gokstad Ship, which was unearthed in 1880 and, like the Oseberg Ship, is remarkably well-preserved. Along with the ship, the excavation revealed a burial chamber, three smaller boats, and even parts of the burial tent. Lastly, the Tune Ship, although not as well-preserved, still offers a fascinating glimpse into Viking craftsmanship, with a section of the ship’s hull still intact.

A visit to the Viking Ship Museum is a must for anyone interested in learning about the Viking heritage and its impact on Norwegian history.

Hotel

Scandic Victoria Oslo Hotel

The Scandic Victoria Oslo Hotel is ideally located for anyone wanting to explore the city. Its central position makes it easy to reach all the major attractions by foot, and there’s a bus station just a stone’s throw away for even more convenience. During my stay, I had an interesting experience that really impressed me. We were running late for our flight to Alta, and I was feeling a bit stressed about making it to the airport on time. When I mentioned this to the receptionist, she immediately sprang into action. She quickly arranged a taxi for us, and within just about a minute and a half, the taxi was already outside the hotel. Thanks to her swift assistance, we made it to the airport in time and didn’t miss our flight. The level of service was excellent, and it really made a difference in ensuring our travel experience went smoothly.

Flying time: Oslo to Alta: 1 hour 55 minutes

Alta – 2 nights

Alta, often referred to as the „City of Northern Lights,“ is a charming little town located in the county of Finnmark in Northern Norway. Despite its small size, Alta is packed with unique experiences that make it a must-visit destination on any road trip through Norway. The city offers a wealth of winter activities, including thrilling snowmobile safaris, serene ice fishing excursions, and peaceful snowshoeing treks through stunning landscapes.

One of the highlights of Alta is the striking Northern Lights Cathedral, a truly unique architectural wonder that’s worth visiting for both its modern design and its connection to the region’s long tradition of viewing the Northern Lights. If you’re looking for a more relaxed pace, Alta offers plenty of natural beauty, such as peaceful hikes through the snow or tranquil walks along the Altafjord. The surrounding landscapes are just as breathtaking in their own way.

What stood out to me the most during my time in Alta was the warmth and hospitality of the locals. The people here truly made my experience special. I had an especially great experience with the staff at the tourist information center, North Adventure. They went above and beyond to assist me when something went wrong, offering support and advice that really made my time in Alta more enjoyable. It’s this kind of kindness and friendliness that makes Alta a memorable part of any Northern Norwegian road trip

Read next: Alta – the city of Northern Lights

Northern Lights

Alta is truly a fantastic destination for anyone eager to witness the magical Northern Lights. According to Visit Alta, the region’s stable climate, with temperatures regularly dipping below -30°C during winter, is ideal for experiencing this natural wonder. The cold temperatures often help clear the skies of clouds, offering a much better chance to see the Northern Lights in all their glory.

If you’re looking to hunt for the Aurora Borealis, there are a few different ways to go about it. One option is to join a guided tour with a local company. These tours will take you well outside the city to avoid light pollution, and the guides know exactly where the best spots are to see the lights. Companies like Sorrisniva or GLØD offer fantastic Northern Lights tours and are known for their professionalism and expertise. They also have a good sense of whether the lights will appear, so you’re more likely to have a successful experience.

However, for a more adventurous and thrilling experience, you can choose to hunt for the Northern Lights on your own. Driving through the darkness, not knowing exactly when or where the lights will show up, adds a sense of excitement and unpredictability. If the aurora is particularly strong, you may even be lucky enough to witness the phenomenon from the comfort of your hotel. No matter which method you choose, Alta’s clear, cold winter skies and remote locations provide the perfect setting for this unforgettable natural spectacle.

Snowmobile Safari

We chose Sorrisniva for the snowmobile safari, but there are certainly other companies offering similar tours in Alta. The experience was unforgettable. One of the first things they did was give us thermo suits to wear. Even if you think you’re dressed warmly enough, don’t skip the thermo suit! The cold in Northern Norway, especially when speeding through the snow on a snowmobile, can be intense.

The safari begins at a slow pace to help you get comfortable with driving the snowmobile. After a while, you can speed up, reaching up to 70 km/h, though even that feels quite fast in the open snow. As you leave the tree line behind, you’re surrounded by nothing but pure white, stretching out in every direction. It’s a surreal, peaceful experience.

The highlight of the journey was the stunning view of Pæska mountain at the Finnmark plateau. The untouched wilderness of the area is breathtaking, and your guide will often stop to share fascinating insights about the landscape, wildlife, and local culture. You might even spot some wild animals during the tour, which adds to the adventure.

After the safari, it’s a nice touch to have a break at Sorrisniva. You’re treated to hot coffee and some snacks, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the experience. This snowmobile safari is truly one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Northern Norway.

Read next: Snowmobile Safari in Alta

Snowshoeing & Ice fishing

YI combined snowshoeing with ice fishing on an incredible tour with GLØD. The company picked us up and took us to their base where they explained how to use the snowshoes before driving us further into the wilderness. The first few steps were tough, and walking in snowshoes was exhausting at first, but the stunning scenery of snow-covered forests and the peace of nature made it all worthwhile.

After a while of snowshoeing through the forest, we reached a frozen lake where the real fun began: ice fishing. The guide showed us how to drill holes in the ice, and we each tried our luck at catching fish. While no one caught anything, the stillness and serenity of the moment, along with the excitement of fishing, made it a unique experience.

To warm up, we were taken to a Sami tent where the guide prepared a delicious meal for us. As we sat in the tent, enjoying the traditional food, we listened to fascinating stories about Sami culture and the region’s history. This combination of outdoor adventure, fishing, and cultural immersion made for a truly memorable Arctic experience..

Read next: Snowshoeing and Ice fishing in Alta

 

Reindeer Sledding & Sami Experience

Another recommendable activity is the reindeer sledding and the sami experience. Who has not dreamed in their childhood about a slight drawn by a reindeer. You also have the chance to meet Sami people. Those are the natives in the north of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia. I booked this tour again with Sorrisniva. They are a really good company for all those winter activities. I can only recommend it.

Firstly you will meet the reindeer. Reindeers are normally very shy. They had only one reindeer that was not afraid of humans. So you you are able to pet it. There are two Sami explaining a little bit of their daily life with reindeers. Then you take a seat in a sleigh and a reindeer will pull you through the forests of Northern Norway.

After a wonderful but cold ride through the snow, you will stop at a tent named lávvu. This is a typical Sami tent. Inside the lávvu, everything is covered with reindeer skin, which is a really good thing to stay warm. It was a really cozy atmosphere and very interesting. I did this tour on the 6th February, which is the National Day in the Sami culture. We were even so lucky to hear the Sami women joiking. A joik is a traditional Sami song. According to the tradition, the Sami People get their joiks from the fairies and elves of the artic land. It is very touching to hear a joik from a Sami.

Hotel & Restaurant

Altafjord Gjestegaard & Spa Hotel

I stayed at the Altafjord Gjestegaard & Spa Hotel. I really loved this hotel because it reflects immediately a image of being at home in front of a cozy fire. It is a rather small hotel but really cozy. The rooms  are decorated with a lot of love for details. The highlight is definitely the electric chimney, which will make it very comfortable.

As it gets dark very fast at that time of year, you are spending a lot time in the hotel. So you have a lot of time to try their delicious food. They are offering a lot of traditional Norwegian food. Norwegian people do not often go to restaurants but mostly eat at home. Therefore there are not many restaurants in Alta. Mostly all hotels have their own restaurants.

Driving time: Alta to Sorrisniva: 20 minutes

Sorrisniva – 1 night

Who has not already dreamt of being the queen in the ice castle? Well this dream can come true at Sorrisniva in Alta. There you can sleep in the igloo hotel completely built out of ice. You will get your own room in the igloo hotel. The „bed“ is covered with reindeer skin to keep you warm in the night. The average temperature at night is between 4 an 7 degrees. It is not recommended to take your luggage with you in the ice room. You can leave everything inside. The hotel provide you with sleeping bags and pillows. When you want to take your mobile phone with you, be sure to put it into the sleeping bag.

Whenever you are staying in the hotel, be sure to have dinner in their restaurant. Their food is amazing. With the big oven in the middle, you feel really comfortable. It is a really cozy place to stay and eat. They offer several menus with regional products.

Driving time: Alta to Honningsvåg: 3 hours

Honningsvåg – 1 night

The city of Honningsvåg is the most northern city in Norway and is one of the main stop of the costal ships Hurtigruten. Although it is a really small city, there are a lot of tourists visiting Honningsvåg, especially because of the North Cape. Honningsvåg is located in the south of the island Magerøya. It is the perfect starting point for your trip to the North Cape.

Northern Lights

Honningsvåg is also a good destination for chasing northern lights. As there is not that much around the city, you leave light pollution quickly behind you. Sometimes you have to be very patient to see them. When I wanted to go chasing the northern lights, a snow storm appeared and made me returning to the hotel. Luckily I didn’t give up. I had the most spectacular light show on the sky the same night.

Read next: Northern Lights in Honningsvåg

Hotel & Restaurant

Scandic Bryggen

I stayed at the Scandic Bryggen Hotel in Honningsvåg. It was a very comfortable hotel with very nice rooms. After the night in the igloo hotel I was really happy to sleep in a warm and cozy bed.

When I stayed in Honningsvåg, all the restaurants were closed and so I ate in the hotel restaurant. It was a really delicious meal, which I can recommend to everyone, especially when you want to leave afterwards to hunt the northern lights.

I have to say that I was really happy with the lady at the reception because she helped with the trip to the North Cape. She told us where to drive for the convoy to the North Cape. 

Driving time: Honningsvåg to North Cape: 40 minutes

North Cape

Have you ever heard of the North Cape? Well from the moment that I knew that you can visit the North Cape, it was on my bucket list. It is simply a magical place. If you are standing in front of the ocean knowing that the only thing to come in that direction is Spitsbergen an the Arctic. Although it has become really touristic, it is absolutely worth it to visit.

In summer the road to the North Cape is always accessible for everyone, even for camping cars. This is not the case in winter. Seeing the North Cape in winter is not that easy during wintertime. If you want to drive with your own car, you have to drive with a convoy because otherwise it would be too dangerous. The route is closed for traffic in winter. So you have to be at a certain time on the meeting point to be able to drive with the convoy. If you are not at the meeting point when the convoy is leaving, you cannot drive to the North Cape. Better be on time! The same counts also for the way back.

There are several monuments that can be visited on the North Cape. In the North Cape Hall you can buy souvenirs, have a drink or something to eat. You can even send a postcard with an extra North Cape stamp. If you want to visit the North Cape, you have to pay an entrance fee, which is 275 NOK per adult. This comes almost to 28 Euro or 35 dollar.

Most of the people run directly to the iconic North Cape monument. I recommend you to explore firstly the surroundings of North Cape and the main monument when most people already went inside the North Cape Hall. Be sure to dress adequate for the North Cape. Even if the sun is shining, it can be freezing up there.

Read next: North Cape: Europe’s most northern point

Driving time: North Cape to Alta: 3 hours 30 minutes

Alta – 1 night

I spent my last night in Alta because the airport is only 10 minutes from the city center. You never know if there is a snow storm on the route. So I prefer to be already very close to the airport whenever I’m flying. 

Whenever you have any question about Alta with a booking or anything else, contact the tourist info, North Adventure, because they will help you with everything.

Hotel & Restaurant

Scandic Alta

For the last night in Alta, I stayed at the Scandic Alta, which is a lovely hotel with an amazing restaurant. The rooms were really cozy and perfect for that cold weather. As there are not many restaurants in Alta, it’s very practical to have a good restaurant in your hotel.

Norway Road Trip Conclusion

During the road trip through Norway, I really learned to admire the calmness of the Norwegian lifestyle. Especially, when you are a snow lover as me, your desires will be satisfied! Although you do a lot of outdoor activities, it is a rather relaxing trip because at 15 o’clock it gets dark. So you have a lot of time to relax in front of a chimney. When you are standing in the middle of nowhere and the only thing you hear is your breath, you know you have reach your target.