Things To Do
in Ålesund
Ålesund is a picturesque coastal town located on the west coast of Norway. Known for its unique Art Nouveau architecture, the town features beautifully detailed buildings and charming streets. Surrounding by stunning mountain and fjord landscapes, Ålesund offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
With a rich maritime history, visitors can explore museums, galleries, and scenic waterfront areas.
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Unnskyld" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Hvordan har du det?" - How are you?
- "Ha en fin dag" - Have a nice day
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided walking tour of Ålesund to admire its unique Art Nouveau architecture. Be sure to stop by the Jugendstilsenteret for insights into the city’s design history.
Enjoy lunch at a local café before visiting Ålesund Aquarium, where you can see native marine life. Spend some time at the nearby beach to relax and soak up the sun.
Dine at a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the fjord. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront to witness the charming night lights of the city.
Set off early on a fjord cruise to experience the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding waters. Keep your camera ready for the wildlife and dramatic cliffs you'll encounter.
Return to Ålesund for a quick lunch and then head to Waldehuset Museum to learn about local history. Take a walk in the nearby parks for some fresh air and beautiful views.
Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring traditional Norwegian cuisine. End your day with a visit to the viewpoint at Aksla for panoramic views of Ålesund at sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery with picturesque mountains and coastline
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local festivals
- Architectural beauty, especially the Art Nouveau buildings
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals
- High cost of living compared to other Norwegian cities
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Harsh winter weather conditions
- Relatively isolated location, requiring travel for larger city amenities
- Tourist influx can lead to overcrowding during peak seasons
Best Activities in Ålesund
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy panoramic views of Ålesund and the surrounding islands from the top of Aksla mountain.
Explore the stunning fjords surrounding Ålesund by kayaking and take in the breathtaking natural scenery.
Embark on a cycling adventure along the iconic Atlantic Ocean Road, experiencing the coastal beauty and impressive bridges.
Join a fishing excursion to experience the rich maritime culture of Ålesund and catch your own dinner in the Norwegian Sea.
Take a boat tour to Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the majestic waterfalls and steep mountainsides.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ålesund with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ålesund
Visit one of these nice places.
Fjellstua offers a panoramic view of Ålesund and its surrounding islands, perfect for capturing the beautiful cityscape.
Aksla viewpoint provides breathtaking views of Ålesund and the nearby Sunnmøre Alps, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
Hessa viewpoint offers stunning views of Ålesund's archipelago, allowing visitors to capture the scenic coastal landscape.
Food in Ålesund
Ålesund Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious dish made with salted and dried cod, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, reflecting the region's strong maritime heritage. It can be enjoyed at Fjellstua restaurant, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding fjords.
Must-Try!
A traditional Norwegian dish of fermented fish, typically trout or char, served with flatbread, sour cream, and onions. It's a unique culinary experience and can be savored at Bro restaurant, known for its authentic Norwegian cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ålesund better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located on the waterfront, this market showcases a variety of fresh seafood, including shrimp, crab, and fish caught in the nearby fjords. Visitors can also enjoy freshly prepared seafood dishes from the market stalls, such as fish soup and grilled mussels.
This popular spot offers street food stalls with local delicacies like smoked salmon wraps, reindeer hot dogs, and berry tarts. The stunning views of Ålesund's architecture and surrounding islands make it a perfect place to savor local street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ålesund, it is important to maintain distance and respect personal space when interacting with others, both in public and social settings.
Norwegians in Ålesund value punctuality, so it is important to be on time for scheduled meetings or gatherings.
Norwegians in Ålesund are environmentally conscious and place a strong emphasis on sustainable practices, so it's important to be mindful of waste and practice eco-friendly habits.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ålesund with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ålesund
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ålesund, Norway, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and cafes. However, it is appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of good service.
Payment in Ålesund, Norway is predominantly cashless, with credit and debit cards widely accepted. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also commonly used. Cash is still accepted but may not be necessary for most transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ålesund.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Ålesund, as the city is starting to emerge from the winter chill. The days are getting longer, and you might catch the beautiful blossoming flowers and trees. The temperatures are milder, and you can expect some rain.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Ålesund, with long daylight hours and mild temperatures. This is the best time to explore the outdoor attractions, go hiking, and enjoy the coastal scenery. The city comes alive with festivals and events, and you can experience the lively atmosphere of the coastal town.
Fall brings stunning autumn colors to Ålesund, with the landscape turning into picturesque shades of red, yellow, and orange. The weather starts to cool down, and you can witness the transition of the city's scenery. It's a great time for photography and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the town.
Winter is a quieter time in Ålesund, with shorter days and colder temperatures. The city might experience snowfall, creating a beautiful winter wonderland. It's a great time for winter activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and exploring the Christmas markets.
Ålesund at Night
Hiking in Ålesund
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offering panoramic views over Ålesund and the surrounding islands, Aksla Mountain is a popular hiking spot with both well-maintained paths and a viewpoint reachable through 418 steps.
A moderate hike that leads to a summit with stunning vistas of Ålesund and the fjords. The trail is about 4.5 km one way and is suitable for most hikers.
A scenic coastal hike on Godøy Island, this trail offers beautiful views of the coastline and a chance to explore charming fishing villages along the way.
This hike leads to the glacier Blåbreen, providing a unique experience amidst stunning landscapes. It's a longer trek that allows hikers to witness both glacier and mountain scenery.
A lesser-known trail that offers a peaceful hiking experience with stunning views of the surrounding nature and the ocean, perfect for those looking for a quiet escape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ålesund through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ålesund by plane.
The nearest international airport serving the Ålesund area, located on Vigra Island, approximately 15 kilometers from the city center.
Located about 70 kilometers from Ålesund, this airport serves as a gateway to the region and offers international flights.
Approximately 100 kilometers from Ålesund, this airport provides both domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 150 kilometers from Ålesund, it is a major international airport in central Norway with a wide range of destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Ålesund, consisting of individuals who identify as ethnic Norwegians.
A diverse group of individuals from various countries, including Eastern European, Asian, and African backgrounds.
Indigenous people of Norway, a small but culturally significant demographic in the region.
A growing demographic consisting of students from around the world, particularly attending local educational institutions.
Older adults, generally aged 65 and above, contributing to the demographic landscape of Ålesund.
The Soul of Ålesund
Discover the essence of Ålesund through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Ålesund, with several local clubs and a strong following among the community.
Handball has a significant presence in Ålesund, with many teams and a vibrant competitive scene, especially for youth.
Given the mountainous terrain around Ålesund, skiing, both alpine and cross-country, is a favored activity, especially during the winter months.
Ice hockey is a prominent sport in Ålesund, with local teams competing in various leagues and a passionate fan base.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Ålesund, with several clubs and an active youth program encouraging participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ålesund.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Ålesund offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, ranging from hearty salads to plant-based burgers and veganized traditional Norwegian dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find several eateries in Ålesund that cater to their needs, offering gluten-free versions of local dishes as well as international cuisine.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ålesund with these cultural adventures.