Planning a trip to Alta, Norway’s premier winter destination, is an exciting adventure. Whether you’re heading to see the Northern Lights, embark on thrilling Arctic excursions, or immerse yourself in Sami culture, getting to Alta from Oslo is a straightforward journey that offers stunning views and an easy transition from city life to the Arctic wilderness. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to travel from Oslo to Alta, ensuring your journey is as seamless as possible.
Ready to start planning your trip? Visit Alta Norway for more detailed information on how to get to Alta, and don’t forget to check out our Plan Your Trip to Alta page for travel tips, accommodation options, and local insights.
1. By Air: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Oslo to Alta is by air. Direct flights from Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL) to Alta Airport (ALF) are available year-round, making it easy to reach your destination in just a couple of hours.
Booking Your Flight:
- Airlines: SAS (Scandinavian Airlines), Norwegian Air Shuttle, and Widerøe are the primary airlines offering direct flights from Oslo to Alta.
- Flight Duration: The flight takes approximately 2 hours, making it the fastest way to travel between the two cities.
- Frequency: Several flights operate daily, giving you flexibility in planning your departure time.
- Booking Tips: To secure the best fares, consider booking your flight in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak winter season (November to March).
At the Airport:
- Oslo Gardermoen Airport: Oslo’s main airport is well-connected and easy to navigate, with plenty of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges. Arrive at least an hour before your flight to allow time for check-in and security.
- Alta Airport: Upon arrival at Alta Airport, you’ll find it to be a small but efficient hub. Taxis, buses, and rental cars are readily available to take you to your accommodation or into the town center.
2. By Road: The Scenic Route
For those who enjoy road trips and want to experience Norway’s breathtaking landscapes up close, driving from Oslo to Alta is an unforgettable adventure. However, it’s important to note that this journey is long and requires careful planning, especially in winter.
Driving Route:
- Distance: The drive from Oslo to Alta is approximately 1,900 kilometers (1,180 miles), depending on the route you take.
- Estimated Time: The drive can take around 24-30 hours, depending on weather conditions and stops along the way.
- Route: The most common route is to drive north via the E6 highway, passing through cities like Lillehammer, Trondheim, and Narvik. The E6 is well-maintained, but winter driving in Norway can be challenging due to snow and ice, so it’s essential to be prepared.
Tips for the Road:
- Winter Tires: Ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires, and consider bringing snow chains, especially if you’re not used to driving in snowy conditions.
- Accommodations: Plan your stops in advance, as the journey will require at least one overnight stay. There are many charming hotels and guesthouses along the route.
- Fuel: Fuel stations can be sparse in remote areas, so keep your tank topped up whenever you can.
- Scenic Stops: Take the time to enjoy the scenery and perhaps make a stop at some of Norway’s famous landmarks, such as the Arctic Circle Center or the Lofoten Islands, if your schedule allows.
3. By Train and Bus: A Scenic and Relaxed Journey
For those who prefer a combination of train and bus travel, the journey from Oslo to Alta can be a scenic and relaxing experience. While there’s no direct train to Alta, you can take a train part of the way and then transfer to a bus.
Train from Oslo to Bodø:
- Route: Take the train from Oslo to Bodø, a coastal city north of the Arctic Circle. The journey takes approximately 17 hours and passes through some of Norway’s most beautiful landscapes.
- Booking: Tickets can be booked through Vy, Norway’s national rail company. Consider booking a sleeper cabin for comfort if you’re traveling overnight.
- Highlights: The train ride offers stunning views of Norway’s fjords, mountains, and forests, making it a memorable part of your journey.
Bus from Bodø to Alta:
- Transfer: From Bodø, you can take a bus to Alta, which typically involves one or two transfers, depending on the route.
- Duration: The bus ride from Bodø to Alta takes about 12-15 hours, including transfers. While it’s a long journey, the scenery is spectacular, with the bus route passing through remote Arctic landscapes.
- Comfort: Norwegian buses are comfortable and equipped with amenities like Wi-Fi and restrooms, making the journey pleasant.
4. By Cruise: A Unique Coastal Journey
For a truly unique way to reach Alta, consider taking a cruise along Norway’s stunning coastline. Hurtigruten, Norway’s iconic coastal ferry, offers voyages that include stops in Alta, providing an immersive way to experience the country’s dramatic fjords and coastal towns.
Cruise Details:
- Route: Depart from Bergen (reachable by train or flight from Oslo) and sail north along the Norwegian coast, stopping at various ports, including Alta.
- Duration: The full voyage from Bergen to Alta takes about 6-7 days, depending on the itinerary.
- Experience: The cruise offers the opportunity to explore Norway’s coastline in-depth, with activities like whale watching, guided excursions, and the chance to see the Northern Lights from the deck of the ship.
Conclusion
Traveling from Oslo to Alta offers several options, each with its own unique experiences. Whether you choose to fly for a quick and easy journey, drive for a scenic road trip, take the train and bus for a relaxed adventure, or embark on a coastal cruise, your trip to Alta will be filled with breathtaking views and memorable moments.
No matter how you choose to travel, Alta’s Arctic charm and natural beauty make it well worth the journey.