Ålesund

Ålesund, known for its stunning natural setting and rich cultural heritage, offers travelers a wealth of exciting activities and experiences. It’s time to explore the best things to do in Ålesund, Norway.

Explore Ålesund’s historic centre

One of the undoubtedly best things to do in Ålesund is to explore its beautiful historic centre, a testament to the city’s dramatic past. In 1904, a devastating fire swept through the town, which was largely constructed of wood at the time, and completely destroyed it. Remarkably, within just three years, Ålesund was rebuilt in the stunning Art Nouveau architectural style, immensely popular back then, which resulted in the creation of a harmonious and distinctive cityscape.

Today, visitors can explore this beautiful and relatively compact historic centre on foot, strolling along Apotekergata and Kongens gate — the two main streets lined with charming shops, exquisite restaurants, and artist-run galleries. The Art Nouveau Centre, housed in a former pharmacy, is the undisputed highlight of the old town, inviting guests to learn about Ålesund’s remarkable transformation.

Striking examples of the city’s grand Art Nouveau style, such as the Rådhuset (town hall) and Posthuset (the former post office), are readily visible. Afterwards, visitors can enjoy a relaxing promenade along the waterfront or find a moment of tranquility in the green oasis of Byparken, the local park. Overall, the city’s historic centre must undoubtedly be among the first things to see in Ålesund, Norway.

Hike to the Aksla viewpoint for panoramic views

To truly appreciate the beauty of Ålesund’s historic centre, travellers should ascend to Mount Aksla. This prominent peak overlooks Ålesund and offers spectacular panoramic views of its unique cityscape, the surrounding islands and fjords, and the majestic Sunnmøre Alps in the distance —a truly stunning backdrop.

The most popular way to reach the Aksla viewpoint is by climbing the 418 stairs that begin in Byparken, a green oasis in the heart of the historic centre. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a scenic drive (though parking at the summit may be limited) or take the charming tourist “City Train” to the top.

Beyond savouring the panoramic vistas and capturing memorable photographs, Mount Aksla offers the opportunity to enjoy a meal or coffee at the on-site restaurant. The area around the summit also boasts several easy hiking trails, which are well worth exploring. Given that it is a quintessential experience in the city and typically takes no more than two hours, hiking to the Aksla viewpoint is deservedly among the best things to do in Ålesund, Norway.

Visit the immersive Atlantic Sea Park

Located in a coastal area, just a couple of kilometres west of the city centre, the fascinating Atlantic Sea Park offers a truly exceptional family experience. Regarded as one of Europe’s largest and most unique saltwater aquariums, this educational institution engagingly showcases the marine environment around Norway, making a visit here one of the top things to do in Ålesund.

The park’s absolute highlight is the giant tank teeming with wildlife from the Atlantic, including cod, wolf fish, halibut, and other large species swimming in their natural habitat. Visitors will undoubtedly be fascinated by the immersive touch tanks, which provide an opportunity to gently interact with smaller, harmless marine creatures — from starfish to crabs and sea urchins. Guests can also check the schedule for feeding demonstrations, often accompanied by informative talks from the staff.

The Atlantic Sea Park also features seal and otter enclosures, a penguin pool, and a deep sea exhibit — the latter dedicated to the mysterious creatures inhabiting the deep waters of the North Atlantic. Visitors can walk through the underwater tunnel or enjoy a stroll along the coastal nature trail, immersing themselves in the surrounding wild beauty. With so many engaging exhibits and memorable experiences, a visit to the immersive Atlantic Sea Park is a must for those wondering what to see in Ålesund, Norway.

Paddle around islands by kayak

Ålesund, nestled amidst fjords and spread across several islands, offers exceptional opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. The city’s combination of sheltered sounds, open sea, and proximity to stunning fjords makes it an ideal destination for paddlers of all skill levels — from beginners to experienced kayakers — inviting those wondering what to do in Ålesund to embark on a relaxing aquatic adventure.

A popular way to kayak near Ålesund is to paddle around the islands forming the city’s historic centre, navigating the narrow channels that provide unique perspectives of the cityscape from the water. Alternatively, novice kayakers can explore the calmer inner sounds and bays, with areas like Valderøya and Giske offering shallower waters and gentler conditions. More experienced paddlers can venture into the wider archipelago — an undoubtedly rewarding experience — or even explore the sheltered beginnings of the smaller fjords, accessible from the city.

Overall, Ålesund boasts stunning scenery, clear waters, frequent wildlife encounters, a tranquil environment, and readily available kayak rentals, all creating perfect conditions for a paddling adventure. That is why kayaking around the city’s beautiful islands is definitely among the best things to do in Ålesund.

Take a trip to the fjords

Hjørundfjord, with its alpine beauty, is reminiscent of the fjords in Patagonia and serves as an ideal destination for travellers looking to avoid crowds.

Along with Bergen, Ålesund is widely regarded as a gateway to the West Norwegian fjords, offering easy access to some of the most inspiring and remarkable landscapes. Several fjords, including the iconic Geirangerfjord, are just a short distance away, easily reachable on a majestic cruise from Ålesund that treats visitors to some of Norway’s most breathtaking scenery.

Geirangerfjord, one of Norway’s two UNESCO-listed fjords, is typically the most popular destination from the town, easily accessible on a 3-hour cruise from Ålesund to Geiranger. On this trip, travellers can witness the idyllic village of Geiranger and the fjord’s mouth from various viewpoints, admire the cascading Seven Sisters waterfall, or even go hiking in the surrounding area.

However, Ålesund also offers several other, less crowded options for a day trip to the fjords. Hjørundfjord, located even closer to the town than Geiragerfjord, is a perfect destination for those seeking to escape crowds, drawing visitors with its wild, alpine beauty reminiscent of the fjords in Patagonia. Romsdalsfjord, situated slightly further away, captivates travellers with its remarkable landscapes, characterised by the towering peaks of Trollveggen, Europe’s tallest vertical rock face.

With several prime destinations for an unforgettable fjord trip, taking a cruise is undoubtedly among the best things to do in Ålesund, Norway. You can learn more about each of these captivating fjords in our dedicated article on the best fjords in Norway.

Explore the fascinating Sunnmøre Museum

Located just outside Ålesund, the Sunnmøre Museum is a regional open-air museum showcasing the cultural and historical heritage of Norway’s Sunnmøre region. Its grounds feature a collection of well-preserved historic buildings, relocated from across the region.

Among the wide array of edifices and structures, guests can explore old farmhouses, boathouses, rorbuer (fishermen’s cabins), and a stave church — all dating from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. A major highlight of the museum is the large hall displaying a remarkable collection of traditional boats. Families with children will thoroughly enjoy a visit to the local petting zoo, while indoor exhibitions provide guests with further context into the region’s history and culture.

During the warmer summer months, visitors can engage in traditional crafts and activities, which are regularly hosted on the museum’s grounds. Although it requires a short bus ride to get there, those wondering what to do in Ålesund should definitely consider visiting this fascinating and immersive place.

Go island-hopping

An eccentric puffin on Runde Island, a paradise for birdwatchers near Ålesund, Norway.

This beautiful town, perfectly situated amidst stunning fjords and lush green mountains, offers exceptional opportunities for island-hopping, making it one of the best things to do in Ålesund. The nearby islands vary greatly in size, terrain, and activities, providing a wealth of memorable experiences — from RIB boat tours to beach-hopping and birdwatching. During the warm summer months, travellers can embrace the outdoor lifestyle, visiting the local islands for hiking, cycling, fishing, and kayaking.

Venturing beyond the immediate islands surrounding the town, visitors can take a cruise to the more remote islands in the Molde archipelago to the north or the picturesque islands in the Hjørundfjord to the east, both guaranteeing unforgettable memories. However, perhaps the most compelling island to visit from Ålesund is Runde, whose steep cliffs and rocky landscape provide ideal conditions for Norway’s largest and most significant seabird colonies — a true paradise for birdwatchers.

On Runde, visitors can glimpse many rare birds, including magnificent northern gannets, graceful fulmars, white-tailed eagles, and quirky puffins. The prime time for birdwatching on Runde is from May through June, and the island is easily accessible from Ålesund by bus or a combination of bus and ferry. Overall, embarking on an island-hopping trip and especially visiting Runde is a must for those seeking what to do and see in Ålesund, Norway.

Sample local cuisine

Tasting the local meals is a quintessential experience in Ålesund. As a major coastal city in Norway, Ålesund boasts a cuisine heavily influenced by fresh seafood from the Norwegian Sea and the nearby fjords, prepared with simple yet flavourful methods, such as frying, grilling, and boiling. Many restaurants feature the “catch of the day,” offering the freshest fish available, prepared in a straightforward and delicious manner.

Beyond the fresh fish, the local cuisine features both traditional Norwegian dishes and regional specialities. Travellers should definitely sample the creamy seafood soup, plukkfisk (a traditional fish stew), and the classic Norwegian lutefisk, a dish particularly popular during Christmas. The city’s restaurants typically offer a warm and inviting atmosphere, further enhancing a pleasant dining experience. Without a doubt, sampling the local meals must definitely be on the list of the top things to do in Ålesund for every traveller.

Explore the city’s museums

The Art Nouveau Museum, or Jugendstilsenteret, is housed in a remarkable old pharmacy building.

Beyond the Art Nouveau Centre and Sunnmøre Museum mentioned earlier, Ålesund offers several other fascinating museums that may capture visitors’ interest. Those with a spare day in the town should certainly dedicate it to exploring these cultural institutions.

Ålesund Museum, located in the historic centre, explores the city’s history, with a particular focus on the period from the late 19th century onwards, including a significant exhibition on the devastating 1904 fire. Visitors can discover a rich collection of artefacts and exhibits detailing the city’s development and its ties to the Sunnmøre region.

Another notable museum in the town is the Fisheries Museum, housed in a historic warehouse by the harbour. At this engaging institution, travellers can learn about Ålesund’s long history of fishing, which has played a crucial role in the local economy and culture for centuries. The exhibition showcases a wide array of tools, techniques, and artefacts from the lives of fishermen, with fishing boats being a major highlight.

Finally, the intimate Medieval Age Museum delves into the medieval history of the Sunnmøre region, exhibiting archaeological finds that shed light on local life in the Middle Ages. Overall, while not boasting an extensive collection of museums, the town is home to several captivating places, making their exploration one of the best things to do in Ålesund.

Set out on a scenic drive along the “Golden Route”

The Atlantic Ocean Road and the iconic Storseisundet Bridge are the absolute highlights of the “Golden Route.”

Travellers with a spare day in the town should definitely embark on a scenic drive along the spectacular “Golden Route,” which is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Ålesund, Norway. A portion of this route — the drive from Trollstigen to Geiranger — treats travellers to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country, creating long-lasting memories.

This picturesque drive begins in Ålesund and winds through the beautiful town of Molde, which captivates visitors with the famous Molde panorama — a remarkable vista of 222 snow-dusted peaks towering over Romsdalsfjord. Afterwards, a true highlight awaits: the spectacular Atlantic Ocean Road, which weaves across the sea, connected by several bridges, including the iconic Storseisundet Bridge.

As the road ascends into the mountainous areas, travellers approach one of Norway’s most popular attractions — the dramatic Trollstigen serpentine road, which descends the mountainside with 11 thrilling hairpin bends. The iconic view of the valley can be admired from the viewpoint situated at the road’s summit. The scenic journey also includes a visit to the mountain town of Åndalsnes, nestled in the stunning Romsdalen valley, home to Europe’s tallest vertical rock face.

The final stretch of the route lies along the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord, where its beauty can be enjoyed from various viewpoints, such as Dalsnibba and Flydalsjuvet. With so many attractions reachable within just a 5-hour drive, this unforgettable trip must undoubtedly be on the itinerary of every visitor to Ålesund.

Getting around

With Ålesund’s compact size and well-oiled transportation system, getting around the town is a breeze. The historic centre, spread across the islands of Nørvøy and Aspøy, is exceptionally walkable, making it ideal for exploration on foot. In recent years, Ålesund has become increasingly bicycle-friendly, with dedicated cycling lanes and bike rentals getting more prevalent.

FRAM, the public transport authority for Møre og Romsdal county, operates a comprehensive network of buses and ferries in and around Ålesund. The local bus network serves most of the city and the adjacent islands, while ferries and boats are essential for reaching certain islands, particularly Valderøya and Giske.

The Bybussen City Train, a small tourist train, offers a convenient sightseeing option through the city centre, taking passengers to the lower reaches of Mount Aksla. Additionally, car rentals and taxis are readily available throughout Ålesund, though visitors should be aware that prices can be quite high.

The airport is conveniently located within a 20-minute drive from the historic centre and is served by both the Airport Bus (Flybussen) and local bus services. Overall, travellers in Ålesund can expect effortless transportation and a variety of convenient options for exploring the city and the wider region.