Things To Do
in Ålesund
Ålesund is a coastal city on Norway's west coast renowned for its distinctive Art Nouveau architecture. Built on several islands, it offers dramatic sea views, bridges, and a compact, walkable center. The surrounding fjords and the Sunnmøre Alps nearby invite outdoor adventures, from hikes to boat tours.
With a lively harbor, rich maritime heritage, and photogenic stairways, Ålesund seamlessly blends culture, nature, and seafaring life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ålesund Airport and check into your hotel in the city center. Wander along the charming Brosundet canal and admire the pastel-colored Art Nouveau facades. Snap photos of elaborately decorated buildings and learn how the city was rebuilt after the great fire of 1904.
Join a guided walking tour through Ålesund’s historic districts to delve deeper into Jugendstil architecture. Visit the Art Nouveau Centre museum to see original blueprints and period furnishings. Refuel at a cozy café overlooking the harbor with a steaming cup of coffee and locally baked pastry.
Dine on freshly caught cod or shrimp at a waterfront restaurant while watching fishing boats return to port. Stroll along the illuminated canal bridges as the city lights reflect in the water. Unwind with a craft beer at a nearby bar and mingle with friendly locals.
Hike the 418 steps of Fjellstua Park up to the Mt. Aksla viewpoint for sunrise over Ålesund’s rooftops and surrounding islands. Breathe in crisp sea air as you take in sweeping vistas of fjords and mountains. Capture postcard-worthy photos from this iconic overlook.
Descend into the lush slopes of Aksla Park for a leisurely picnic among blooming rhododendrons. Head to Atlanterhavsparken, one of Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums, to watch seals and otters play. Learn about Norway’s marine ecosystems at interactive exhibits.
Return to Fjellstua café to savor hot chocolate or local cloudberry cream while the sky turns pink. Hike back as the city lights begin to twinkle below. Relax at a nearby spa or sauna to soothe tired muscles after the day’s climb.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $60-100 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Local transportation (day pass) | $8-12 |
| 🛏️One night in mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Art Nouveau architecture and photogenic harbors
- Proximity to fjords and Sunnmøre Alps for outdoor adventures
- Can be rainy and windy; plan for variable weather
- Prices can be high by international standards; budgeting helps
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Takk" - Thank you
- "Vær så snill" - Please
- "Hvor er nærmeste tog-/busstasjon?" - Where is the nearest train/bus station?
- "Hva koster det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kan jeg få regningen, takk?" - Can I have the bill, please?
Places to Visit in Ålesund
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic panorama of Ålesund and its surrounding archipelago; best at sunrise or sunset for dramatic light on the Jugendstil skyline.
Historic harbor area with wooden warehouses and boats; a great place for reflections and maritime character shots.
Capture the ornate, early 20th-century Art Nouveau façades along Strandgaten and surrounding streets.
Architectural landmarks and harbor backdrops for cityscapes and skyline photography.
Modern aquarium with striking exterior views and opportunities to photograph aquatic life up close from the outside.
Food in Ålesund
Ålesund Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal Arctic cod prepared simply, often pan-fried with potatoes and vegetables, showcasing pristine, flaky flesh from the winter fishing season.
Must-Try!
Creamy, hearty seafood soup featuring locally caught fish, shellfish, and herbs—comforting and perfect for chilly days.
Dishes made with dried and salted cod, prepared in various regional styles, from stews to baked preparations.
A traditional preparation of dried white fish rehydrated in lye, typically enjoyed in winter months, often with potatoes and mushy peas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh fish, shrimp, and local seafood sold near the harbor; try a shrimp sandwich or freshly grilled fish with a view of the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Norwegians value punctuality, quiet conversation in public, and respectful behavior. Greet with a firm handshake and eye contact.
Queue in orderly lines; speaking softly in public spaces is typical, and showing appreciation or apologies with small gestures is common.
In many homes, removing shoes before entering is customary; bring a small gift if visiting someone’s home as a courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Ålesund
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in higher-end places. In casual settings, service charges are often included.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is accepted but less commonly used in daily transactions; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blooming landscapes; several ferries resume full service; layering is key as mornings can be cool.
Long daylight hours and generally mild temperatures; ideal for outdoor sightseeing, hikes, and harbor strolls; expect occasional rain.
Pleasant shoulder-season with changing foliage; sea winds can be brisk; perfect for photography and cozy meals by the water.
Cold and often snowy; shorter days but festive atmosphere around holidays; dress warmly and plan indoor activities alongside sea-weather days.
Ålesund at Night
Hiking in Ålesund
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hillside hike offering scenic views of Ålesund and the surrounding archipelago; suitable for a half-day outing.
Accessible via stairs and path routes; short but steep climb rewarded with sweeping city and sea views.
A renowned multi-hour ridge hike offering dramatic viewpoints of fjords and peaks; a possible day trip for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Ålesund by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; approx. 20–30 minutes from the city center by car; frequent connections to Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, and domestic routes.
Alternative regional airport about a couple of hours' drive away; good for combining a trip with Molde and the Romsdalen area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of locals, families, and students, with a growing presence of international visitors drawn to the fjords and architecture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A natural fit for a coastal city; active local scene with harbor trips and water sports.
Popular team sports with local clubs and opportunities to watch or participate.
Access to Sunnmør Alps and coastal trails; winter travelers can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in appropriate months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ålesund.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and restaurants; ask for vegetable-forward specialties or reforms like fish-free soups and salads. Many places can accommodate vegetarian requests with advance notice.