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

One unforgettable experience in Northern Norway is reindeer sledding combined with a Sami cultural experience. As a child, many dream of riding a sleigh drawn by reindeer, and this tour gave me the chance to make that dream come true. We booked the activity with Sorrisniva, a company known for its excellent winter adventures. Upon arrival, we met the reindeer, some of which are quite shy, but we were lucky enough to interact with one who wasn’t afraid of humans, allowing us to pet it. Two Sami guides explained their daily life with reindeer, adding a fascinating cultural touch.

To make the day even more special, we were fortunate to visit on National Day for the Sami people. We were treated to a traditional joik, a Sami song that is said to be gifted by the fairies and elves of the Arctic land. The deep, emotional resonance of the joik created a truly magical moment, making this cultural experience even more meaningful.

Hotel & Restaurant

Altafjord Gjestegaard & Spa Hotel

We stayed at the Altafjord Gjestegaard & Spa Hotel, and it was a real highlight of our trip. This cozy, charming hotel felt like a home away from home, especially with its inviting atmosphere and warm decor. The rooms were thoughtfully decorated with attention to detail, and the electric fireplace added a wonderful sense of comfort, especially during the long winter nights. It’s a small hotel, but that only adds to its intimate and relaxing feel.

Since it gets dark early in Northern Norway during winter, you naturally spend more time indoors, and that’s when the hotel’s restaurant truly shines. They serve a variety of traditional Norwegian dishes, all prepared with great care. In Alta, you won’t find many standalone restaurants, as locals typically eat at home, so having a quality in-house dining option is a big plus. I really appreciated the chance to enjoy local cuisine in such a cozy setting.

Driving time: Alta to Sorrisniva: 20 minutes

Sorrisniva – 1 night

Who hasn’t dreamed of being the queen (or king) of an ice castle? At Sorrisniva in Alta, that fantasy becomes reality. You can spend a night in their Igloo Hotel, which is entirely built from snow and ice. Each guest gets a private room with a bed made of ice, covered in warm reindeer skins. The room temperature stays between 4 and 7°C, but with provided sleeping bags and thermal layers, you’ll stay surprisingly warm. Since it’s so cold, it’s best to leave your luggage in the warm area and only bring essentials, like your phone, inside your sleeping bag to keep it from freezing..

While you’re staying there, don’t miss dining at the Sorrisniva restaurant, which is just as memorable as the hotel itself. With a large open oven and a rustic, warm design, it offers a perfect contrast to the icy accommodations. Their seasonal menus feature local and regional ingredients, prepared with a lot of care, making it a delicious and cozy experience to round off your night in the Arctic..

Driving time: Alta to Honningsvåg: 3 hours

Honningsvåg – 1 night

The city of Honningsvåg holds the title of being the northernmost city in Norway, and it serves as one of the main ports of call for the famous coastal cruise line, Hurtigruten. Despite its small size, Honningsvåg welcomes many tourists every year, primarily because it is the gateway to the North Cape, one of Europe’s northernmost accessible points.

Located in the southern part of Magerøya Island, Honningsvåg is the ideal starting point for an excursion to the North Cape Plateau, offering stunning Arctic landscapes and panoramic views of the Barents Sea. Whether you’re arriving by ship, car, or bus, the journey from Honningsvåg to the North Cape is scenic and unforgettable.

Northern Lights

Honningsvåg is also a great destination for chasing the Northern Lights. Thanks to its remote location and minimal surrounding infrastructure, you can quickly escape light pollution and find a dark spot to watch the sky. The conditions can be unpredictable, sometimes requiring a lot of patience.

During our own visit, a sudden snowstorm initially forced us to return to the hotel, disappointed. But Yannick won’t give up, and later that same night, the skies cleared and we were rewarded with one of the most spectacular aurora displays we’ve ever seen. It was truly magical and worth the wait.

Read next: Northern Lights in Honningsvåg

Hotel & Restaurant

Scandic Bryggen

We stayed at the Scandic Bryggen in Honningsvåg, and it was a very comfortable and welcoming place, especially after spending a night in the chilly igloo hotel. The warm, cozy bed was exactly what we needed to recharge. The rooms were modern and clean, offering a relaxing atmosphere after long days out in the cold.

During our stay, most of the restaurants in town were closed, so we dined at the hotel’s own restaurant. The food was surprisingly good—fresh and flavorful—and I can definitely recommend eating there, particularly if you’re planning to head out later to hunt the Northern Lights.

A special shoutout goes to the helpful receptionist, who gave us clear guidance on how to join the convoy to the North Cape. Her advice made the logistics smooth and stress-free, ensuring we didn’t miss one of the highlights of the trip. 

Driving time: Honningsvåg to North Cape: 40 minutes

North Cape

Have you ever heard of the North Cape? From the moment I found out it was possible to visit, it immediately went on my bucket list. Standing there, at what feels like the edge of the world, staring out over the ocean with only Spitsbergen and the Arctic beyond, it’s a powerful, almost surreal experience. Despite its popularity among tourists, I can confidently say it’s absolutely worth the visit..

In summer, getting to the North Cape is easy, the road is open to all vehicles, even campervans. But winter brings a completely different challenge. Due to extreme weather and snow, the road is closed to regular traffic, and the only way to reach the cape is by joining a convoy. These convoys are organized for safety reasons and leave at specific times from a designated meeting point. If you’re late, you won’t be allowed to join, so it’s essential to be punctual, for both the trip there and the return. It’s a bit of an adventure, but it adds to the magic of reaching such a remote and iconic destination.

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

We spent our final night in Alta because the airport is just about 10 minutes from the city center. In winter, weather conditions can change quickly, and snowstorms may cause unexpected delays on the road. So being close to the airport gave me peace of mind before our flight. 

If you ever need help with bookings, activities, or local tips, I highly recommend contacting North Adventure, the local tourist information office. The staff there are incredibly helpful and go above and beyond to assist travelers with anything they need.

Hotel & Restaurant

Scandic Alta

For the last night in Alta, we stayed at the Scandic Alta, a lovely and conveniently located hotel. The rooms were warm, cozy, and ideal for relaxing after days of winter adventures. Given that there aren’t many restaurants in Alta, it was especially practical to have a great in-house restaurant offering delicious meals right where I stayed. It made the final night of my trip both comfortable and stress-fre.

Norway Road Trip Conclusion

During our road trip through Norway, I truly came to admire the calm and peaceful rhythm of the Norwegian lifestyle. For someone who loves snow as much as I do, it felt like a dream come true. Despite doing many exciting outdoor activities, the trip remained remarkably relaxing, especially since it gets dark around 15:00 in winter. That gave us plenty of time to unwind indoors, often in front of a warm and cozy fire.

One of the most memorable moments was standing alone in the snowy wilderness, surrounded by silence so complete that the only thing I could hear was my own breath. That stillness, that solitude—it’s when I realized I had found exactly what I was looking for.