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Nestled among Norway’s breathtaking fjords, Ålesund is a coastal city that will captivate your senses. With a population of just over 67,000, this charming city is built on seven islands connected by bridges and tunnels, giving it a unique “Venice-meets-Vikings” vibe.
As one of Norway’s most beautiful cities, Ålesund is renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture and is the perfect base for exploring the stunning Møre og Romsdal County. You can experience the city’s fascinating history, gorgeous scenery, and architectural wonders, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
Whether you’re drawn to urban charm or Norway’s famous natural attractions, Ålesund offers a perfect blend of both. Get ready to explore the top attractions and activities that make this city a must-visit destination.
Discovering Alesund: Norway’s Art Nouveau Gem
In the aftermath of a city-wide fire, Ålesund emerged with a unique architectural identity, characterized by its stunning Art Nouveau style. The fire in 1904 was a pivotal moment in the city’s history, destroying most of its wooden buildings and leaving over 10,000 people homeless.
The tragedy led to a complete rebuilding of the city in the then-popular Art Nouveau style. Over 50 young local architects came together to redesign Ålesund, creating a cohesive architectural style throughout the city center. This collaborative effort resulted in a city that is now considered one of Europe’s best-preserved Art Nouveau cities.
The Art Nouveau architecture in Ålesund is not just a replication of European styles; it incorporates local motifs such as Viking dragons and coastal plants, giving it a unique Norwegian interpretation. This blend of European elegance with local elements has shaped the city’s identity and made it a standout destination for architecture enthusiasts.
Today, you can stroll through Ålesund’s city center and admire the pastel-colored buildings that seem to have been pulled straight from an architect’s fever dream. The best time to visit Ålesund is during the summer months when you have more daylight hours and attractions have longer opening hours, allowing you to fully appreciate the city’s architectural heritage.
Ålesund’s Art Nouveau style is a testament to the city’s resilience and its ability to transform adversity into something beautiful. As you explore the city, you’ll discover that its architecture is not just about buildings; it’s about the story of a place reborn from the ashes, creating a unique time capsule of history and style.
Admire the Art Nouveau Architecture
The city’s reconstruction after the 1904 fire resulted in the distinctive Art Nouveau architecture that characterizes Alesund today. As you stroll through the downtown area, you’ll be surrounded by the unique charm of this style.
Alesund’s Art Nouveau architecture is distinguished by its ornate facades, decorative elements, and a pastel color palette that makes the buildings highly photogenic. You’ll find the best examples of this architectural style on streets like Apotekergata and Kongens gate.
The Art Nouveau Centre & KUBE Art Museum
To delve deeper into Alesund’s Art Nouveau heritage, visit the Art Nouveau Centre (Jugendstilsenteret) and the KUBE Art Museum. Located at Apotekergata 16, these museums are open from Tuesday to Sunday, 11 am to 4 pm, with tickets priced at 120 NOK ($10.50) per person.
The Art Nouveau Centre is housed in the former Swan Pharmacy building and is dedicated to preserving and explaining the city’s architectural heritage. Meanwhile, the KUBE Art Museum features exhibitions that connect Art Nouveau architecture to other art forms from the same period, providing a comprehensive understanding of the style.
For a more immersive experience, consider taking a guided walking tour. This will allow you to fully appreciate the architectural details and learn about the stories behind the buildings’ reconstruction after the fire of 1904.
By exploring Alesund’s Art Nouveau architecture, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s unique cultural and historical heritage.
Climb Mount Aksla for Panoramic Views
For a panoramic view of Ålesund like no other, make your way to Mount Aksla, the city’s iconic viewpoint. Walking up to Aksla viewpoint is one of the top things to do in Ålesund city center if you have a spare hour or two. You will tackle 418 steps up to Mount Aksla, but don’t worry—it’s not a real mountain, standing at just 188 m (617 ft).
As you climb, the view just gets better, with dramatic hills, scattered islands, and tiny boats bobbing on the clear blue water. At the top, the lookout is pretty jaw-dropping, which is what you need when you’re trying to catch your breath. There’s even a café, Fjellstua, where you can enjoy traditional Norwegian treats like “svele” (similar to pancakes) often served with brown cheese and butter.
While the climb requires some effort, it’s accessible for most visitors and takes about 20-30 minutes at a leisurely pace. Recently, an entrance fee of 100 NOK was introduced for the main observation deck, but you can still enjoy a free alternative viewpoint at Byrampen on your way up. To avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the day or in the evening for beautiful sunset views over the archipelago.
Mount Aksla is one of Ålesund’s must-visit attractions, offering the most iconic panoramic views of the city, surrounding islands, and fjords. Whether you’re looking for a challenging walk or simply a great view, Mount Aksla is a great place to spend your time in Ålesund.
Drive the Spectacular Trollstigen Road
Embark on a thrilling adventure with a drive along Trollstigen Road, one of Norway’s most breathtaking routes. Located about two hours from Ålesund, Trollstigen, or “the Troll’s Path,” makes for a perfect day trip. This steep mountain road is renowned for its 11 sharp hairpin bends, offering a thrilling drive experience akin to a rollercoaster ride.
The road is an engineering marvel, with its hairpin bends zigzagging up the mountainside. As you drive along Trollstigen, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the 320-meter Stigfossen waterfall that cascades alongside it. The dramatic scenery is sure to leave you in awe.
At the top, well-designed viewing platforms allow you to safely enjoy panoramic views of the winding road and valley below. It’s a great way to spend your time while taking in the attractions that Trollstigen has to offer.
Trollstigen is typically open from late May to October, weather permitting, and is closed during the winter months due to snow. Before you go, be sure to check the road conditions. Take your time driving through the hairpin turns, and plan for photo stops at the designated areas.
For those who prefer not to drive themselves, organized day trip tours from Ålesund are available. This way, you can enjoy the scenic views without worrying about the logistics.
Experience the Atlantic Ocean Road
As one of Norway’s National Tourist Routes, the Atlantic Ocean Road promises an adventure like no other. This 8.3 km road connects a series of small islands and skerries with eight bridges, creating a unique driving experience that seems to float above the ocean.
Located about 130 km northeast of Ålesund, it’s an excellent day trip that takes about 2-3 hours to reach. The most famous section, the curved Storseisundet Bridge, creates an optical illusion as you approach it, making it a thrilling drive.
The road offers different experiences depending on weather conditions – from peaceful coastal views on calm days to dramatic wave-crashing spectacles during storms. Be sure to stop at designated viewing platforms, fishing spots, and small cafes along the route to take in the attractions.
Allowing a full day for this trip from Ålesund will give you ample time to appreciate the drive and make multiple stops for photos and exploration. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride on this incredible road!
Visit Alnes Lighthouse on Godøya Island
One of Norway’s most visited lighthouses, Alnes Lighthouse, awaits you on Godøya Island. This stunning lighthouse is located on a picturesque island, just a 30-minute drive from Ålesund. The journey involves driving through four tunnels, an experience in itself that showcases Norway’s impressive infrastructure.
For a mere NOK60 (USD5.50), you can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the Norwegian Sea. The lighthouse, built in 1852, is still operational and offers a unique glimpse into Norway’s maritime history. Next to the lighthouse, you’ll find an “experience center” with art exhibitions and a café serving delicious Norwegian cakes and coffee, making it a great place to spend your time.
Hiking on Godøya Island
While on Godøya, you can also hike Storhornet, a large hill that offers a challenging but rewarding 7.2 km loop trail. The hike takes about 3.5 hours to complete and involves an elevation gain of 614 m. The diverse landscapes encountered on the Storhornet hike include grassy stretches, panoramic viewpoints, and a beautiful lake, making it a great hour-long adventure on the island.
Combining the lighthouse visit and hike into a full-day excursion from Ålesund is highly recommended. Be sure to bring appropriate hiking gear and refreshments to make the most of your visit to this great place.
Explore Alesund’s Fascinating Museums
Beyond Alesund’s stunning Art Nouveau architecture, the city’s museums are a treasure trove of history and culture. You’ll discover the city’s rich maritime history and cultural heritage by visiting its fascinating museums.
The Fisheries Museum
The Fisheries Museum, or Fiskerimuseet, is a must-visit for anyone interested in Alesund’s fishing heritage. Housed in a historic warehouse near the harbor, the museum showcases the city’s fishing industry, which built its wealth. You’ll find vintage boats, traditional fishing equipment, and interactive displays that tell the story of the hardy fishermen who braved the Norwegian Sea.
The Sunnmøre Museum
The Sunnmøre Museum is an impressive open-air museum located just 10 minutes from central Alesund. With 56 historical buildings relocated to create a village-like setting, the museum showcases rural life in the region through the centuries. You’ll explore charming wooden homes, rustic boathouses, and even Viking ship replicas, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s seafaring history and cultural significance.
Both museums offer a unique perspective on Alesund’s history and culture. Be sure to check their opening hours, ticket prices, and accessibility information to plan your visit.
Visit the Atlantic Sea-Park Aquarium
The Atlantic Sea-Park Aquarium, situated on Hessa island, is one of Scandinavia’s largest and most fascinating saltwater aquariums. As a leading attraction in the Alesund area, it’s a great place for families and marine enthusiasts alike.
Located just a short drive from central Alesund, the aquarium focuses on showcasing the diverse marine life of the North Atlantic. Upon visiting, you’ll have the opportunity to see a wide variety of species, including playful otters, seals, and an array of fish native to Norwegian waters. The aquarium’s impressive exhibits include the massive “Atlantic Ocean” tank, outdoor seal and penguin pools, and interactive touch pools.
One of the highlights of your visit is the daily feeding demonstrations. If you time your visit right, you can watch divers feed the fish in the main tank at 1 pm, a truly unforgettable experience. With plenty to see and do, the Atlantic Sea-Park Aquarium is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon.
Practically, the aquarium is open from 9 AM to 5 PM in the summer and from 10 AM to 4 PM during the rest of the year. Ticket prices are around 250 NOK for adults, making it an affordable attraction. Be sure to check out the facilities available on site to enhance your visit.
Take a Day Trip to Geirangerfjord
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s most spectacular fjords, on a day trip from Ålesund. Located about 2.5 hours away, Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts dramatic landscape features, including emerald-green waters, steep mountain walls rising 1,600 meters from the sea, and famous waterfalls like the Seven Sisters, the Suitor, and the Bridal Veil.
You can enjoy Geirangerfjord in various ways, including organized day trips, ferry rides, or self-driving along the Eagle Road for spectacular viewpoints. The Fjord1 ferry service operates between Ålesund and Geiranger during the summer months, offering a scenic journey through Storfjorden and into Geirangerfjord. As you sail, take in the serene nature and majestic scenery.
At the end of the fjord lies the charming village of Geiranger, where you can explore restaurants, souvenir shops, and engage in activities like boat kayaking or hiking. The best time to visit Geirangerfjord is from May to September when services are running at full capacity and the landscape is at its most vibrant.
To make the most of your visit, allow a full day for this excursion. This will give you ample time to enjoy the fjord cruise and explore the area without rushing, ensuring a memorable experience.
Where to Stay and Eat in Alesund
Alesund is a city that seamlessly blends traditional and modern elements in its hotels and restaurants. You’ll find a range of accommodations to suit your needs, from historic hotels housed in stunning Art Nouveau buildings to modern establishments offering breathtaking harbor views.
Best Hotels and Accommodations
For a truly iconic experience, consider staying at Hotel Brosundet, a former warehouse for local fisheries turned into a luxurious hotel. This Art Nouveau building boasts a perfect blend of historic architecture and modern interior design. Other notable options include Hotel 1904, located in another striking Art Nouveau building, and Thon Hotel Alesund, which offers comfortable rooms with sea views at a reasonable price.
If you prefer more space, apartment rentals are also available, providing a home away from home in this beautiful city.
Top Restaurants and Cafés
Alesund’s food scene is heavily influenced by its coastal location, with seafood featuring prominently on most menus. For a truly exceptional dining experience, head to Apotekergata No.5, housed in a historic building and serving outstanding seafood dishes. Alternatively, Fjellstua at the top of Mount Aksla offers panoramic views along with delicious local cuisine.
For a more casual meal, Molo Brew is a great spot for craft beer and burgers, while Racoon Coffee serves excellent coffee and pastries. Be sure to try local specialties such as bacalao (salt cod), fresh seafood platters, and traditional Norwegian desserts like “svele” (pancakes with brown cheese).
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Alesund Visit
With its unique blend of natural beauty and architectural charm, Alesund is a must-visit destination in Norway. The city’s Art Nouveau architecture, maritime heritage, and access to natural wonders make it an ideal base for exploring the wider Møre og Romsdal area.
In my opinion, 3 days is the ideal amount of time to spend in Alesund, allowing you to explore the city center and take day trips to surrounding attractions. While 2 days can be sufficient, it may feel rushed, especially if you want to drive the epic routes in the wider area.
To make the most of your visit, consider the season: summer offers longer daylight hours and full services, while shoulder seasons mean fewer crowds but potentially limited opening hours. You can prioritize activities based on your interests, whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, family traveler, or history buff.
Getting around Alesund is relatively easy, and renting a car can be beneficial for exploring the surrounding region. The city center is also walkable, making it easy to discover its many places of interest. With plenty of things to do in Alesund, including immersive museums and historical sites, you’ll find that this city is worth visiting and has a lot to offer.
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The above is subject to change.
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