Explore Ålesund

Best Time to Visit:

• Summer (June - August): This is the peak tourist season, offering pleasant temperatures and long daylight hours. It’s the ideal time to explore the town's natural beauty and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and boat trips.

• Autumn (September - November): The autumn months bring cooler temperatures and the opportunity to witness beautiful fall foliage. The town is quieter, making it perfect for those looking for a more relaxed experience.

• Winter (December - February): Winter transforms Ålesund into a charming snow-covered destination, perfect for winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding in nearby mountains. You can also enjoy the festive Christmas atmosphere.

• Spring (March - May): Spring offers a mix of mild weather and fewer crowds. It’s an excellent time for hiking and enjoying the budding landscapes around the town.

How to Get There:

• By Air:

  • Ålesund Airport, Vigra (AES) is the main airport serving the town, with flights connecting to Oslo and other Norwegian cities, as well as some international routes. The airport is about a 20-minute drive from the town center.

• By Train:

  • While Ålesund does not have a direct train station, you can take a train to nearby Åndalsnes or Molde and then catch a bus or ferry to Ålesund. The scenic train ride along the Norwegian coast is a beautiful experience.

• By Bus:

  • Bus services are available from Oslo, Bergen, and other cities in Norway. The trip to Ålesund by bus can take around 8-10 hours.

• By Car:

  • Driving to Ålesund offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes of Norway. The town is accessible by road from cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim.

Top Attractions:

1. Art Nouveau Architecture:

   • Ålesund is renowned for its Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) architecture, which resulted from a devastating fire in 1904. The town was rebuilt with an emphasis on this unique architectural style. Take a walk through the town center to admire the colorful buildings and intricate designs.

2. Aksla Viewpoint:

   • For panoramic views of Ålesund, head to the Aksla Viewpoint, located on the top of Mount Aksla. You can hike or take a car to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the town, surrounding islands, and fjords.

3. Ålesund Aquarium (Atlanterhavsparken):

   • One of the largest saltwater aquariums in Scandinavia, Ålesund Aquarium offers a fascinating look at marine life from the Norwegian Sea. It’s an educational and family-friendly attraction, with exhibits on local fish species, seals, and more.

4. Jugendstilsenteret (Art Nouveau Center):

   • Visit the Art Nouveau Center to learn about the town's reconstruction after the fire and the development of its distinctive Art Nouveau style. The museum includes exhibitions on architecture, design, and history.

5. Herring Era Museum:

   • This museum showcases Ålesund’s history as a hub of Norway’s herring industry. The museum includes exhibits on the herring fishing industry and its impact on the local community.

6. Sunnmøre Museum:

   • This open-air museum features traditional Norwegian buildings and boats, including a collection of old wooden ships. It provides a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage.

7. The Atlantic Sea-Park:

   • For an interactive experience with marine life, visit the Atlantic Sea-Park in Ålesund. It’s a fantastic place for families, offering opportunities to see and learn about fish, seals, and other marine animals.

8. The Coastal Landscape:

   • Ålesund is surrounded by beautiful coastal scenery, including islands, fjords, and beaches. Explore the nearby Geirangerfjord (a UNESCO World Heritage site), or take a scenic boat trip through the islands to witness the beauty of the Norwegian coast.

Activities to Do:

1. Hiking:

   • Ålesund is a great base for hiking enthusiasts. Popular hikes include Sukkertoppen (Sugar Top), which offers stunning views of the town and surrounding areas, and Mount Aksla, which has a well-maintained path to the top.

2. Boat Trips:

   • Take a boat trip around the nearby islands, such as Herdla or Godøy, and enjoy the spectacular coastal scenery. The Geirangerfjord is another must-see destination for boat trips, known for its dramatic landscapes and waterfalls.

3. Whale Watching:

   • From Ålesund, you can take whale-watching tours to see orcas, humpback whales, and other marine animals. These tours typically take place from November to February, during the winter months.

4. Fishing:

   • Ålesund is a fantastic location for both sea fishing and fly fishing. You can join a fishing tour or simply rent equipment and head to one of the nearby fjords or islands.

5. Northern Lights:

   • If you're visiting in winter, Ålesund is a great place to see the Northern Lights. The city’s location on the western coast of Norway provides relatively clear skies and minimal light pollution.

Accommodation:

• Luxury:

  • Hotel Brosundet: A stylish boutique hotel located in a historic building, offering elegant rooms with views of the harbor. Ideal for those looking for a more luxurious experience. Book via Hotel Brosundet.

• Mid-Range:

  • Quality Hotel Strand Gjøvik: A comfortable hotel offering modern amenities and stunning views of the fjord. It's perfect for those seeking a mid-range option with easy access to Ålesund’s main attractions.

• Budget:

  • First Hotel Atlantica: A budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Ålesund, offering simple but comfortable rooms and a great location near the harbor and attractions.

Food and Restaurants:

1. Traditional Norwegian Cuisine:

   • Sample traditional Norwegian dishes, such as rakfisk (fermented fish), klippfisk (dried cod), or kjøttkaker (meatballs) at local eateries. Bacalao (salted cod) is another dish to try, as Ålesund is a coastal town with strong ties to the fishing industry.

2. Lyst Café:

   • A popular café in the heart of Ålesund, offering fresh, local food such as sandwiches, pastries, and excellent coffee. It’s a cozy spot for breakfast or lunch.

3. Restaurant Sjøbua:

   • A great place to sample fresh seafood in Ålesund. The restaurant offers a variety of fish dishes, including shellfish and cod. It’s located by the harbor, giving diners beautiful views while they eat.

4. Apotekergata No. 5:

   • A trendy, modern restaurant that serves gourmet dishes and cocktails. It has a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for an evening meal after a day of sightseeing.

5. Smia Fiskebar:

   • Another great seafood restaurant in Ålesund, offering a variety of fresh fish dishes, such as cod, salmon, and shellfish. It’s known for its casual yet high-quality dining experience.

Local Culture:

• Art Nouveau: Ålesund’s distinctive Art Nouveau architecture is the result of a rebuilding effort after the 1904 fire. The city has embraced this style, with many buildings reflecting the beauty of Art Nouveau design.

• Maritime Heritage: The town has a long maritime history, and this is reflected in its museums and attractions, such as the Sunnmøre Museum and Herring Era Museum.

• Festivals: Ålesund hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including The Ålesund Cultural Festival and The Norwegian Food Festival, where visitors can experience the best of local culture, music, and cuisine.

Booking information