Written by Elsa Holm, Graham Smith, Julien Lambert
05/09/2025
Ramon Perucho, Pexels
Ålesund presents itself as a captivating Norwegian coastal city, distinguished by its unique Art Nouveau architecture, meticulously rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1904, and framed by dramatic natural landscapes that serve as a gateway to majestic fjords and mountains.
For those seeking to connect, Ålesund offers a variety of inviting spaces including charming cafes and restaurants showcasing local cuisine, along with several bars such as VinoBar, Molo Brew, and Arkivet. Cultural venues like Terminalen Byscene regularly host concerts and festivals, and floating saunas provide a distinctive social experience by the water.
Top 6 Things to do in Ålesund
Ålesund offers a blend of architectural exploration, panoramic viewpoints, marine life encounters, and various water and mountain adventures.
1. Climb Mount Aksla to Fjellstua Viewpoint
I highly recommend ascending Mount Aksla for breathtaking panoramic views of Ålesund, the surrounding islands, and the majestic Sunnmøre Alps. You can challenge yourself by climbing the 418 steps from the city park. The Fjellstua café at the summit provides a welcome break with refreshments. While there is a fee for the main observation deck, I found that alternative viewpoints along the way, such as Byrampen, still offer stunning vistas for free.
Cost: Access via the stairs is free. An entrance fee of approximately 100 NOK applies for the main observation deck at Fjellstua. The café has separate costs for food and drinks.
Transport: The ascent begins directly from the city park, which is within walking distance of the city center. Taxis can also take you directly to Fjellstua. During the summer, a city train may operate to the viewpoint.
2. Explore Jugendstilsenteret (Art Nouveau Centre) and KUBE
Stepping into the Jugendstilsenteret felt like a journey back in time, offering a deep dive into Ålesund's distinctive Art Nouveau architecture. Located in the former Swan Pharmacy, this national center beautifully showcases the style through authentic interiors and engaging exhibitions. Adjacent to it, KUBE serves as the regional art museum, providing a broader cultural perspective.
Cost: Adult entry is 120 NOK. Children (0-18 years) can enter for free, and students pay 100 NOK.
Transport: Both museums are centrally located in Ålesund and are easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the city center.
3. Visit the Atlantic Sea-Park (Atlanterhavsparken)
My visit to the Atlantic Sea-Park, one of Northern Europe's largest saltwater aquariums, was a fascinating experience. I was able to observe diverse marine life from the North Atlantic, including playful otters, seals, and various fish species, housed in impressive landscape tanks. It is an engaging and educational activity for all ages.
Cost: Entry prices for adults are typically from 250 NOK.
Transport: Take Bus No. 1 from Downtown Ålesund towards Hessa; disembark at the 'Tuenesvegen' stop. From there, it is a pleasant 10-15 minute walk to the park. A single bus ticket costs approximately 41.50 NOK via the FRAM app or 66 NOK if purchased from the driver. Taxis are also available, with a journey taking about 7 minutes from downtown.
4. Kayak through Brosundet or the Archipelago
Paddling through the narrow Brosundet canal offers a unique and intimate perspective of Ålesund's Art Nouveau buildings from the water. I found this to be a peaceful yet active way to admire the city's architecture and connect with its maritime heritage. Many tours are beginner-friendly, making it accessible even without prior kayaking experience.
Cost: Guided tours typically start from around 679 NOK for a 2 to 2.5-hour experience. For independent exploration, single sea kayak rentals can be found for approximately 650 NOK for 6 hours, while a double kayak costs around 950 NOK for the same duration.
Transport: Most kayak tours and rentals operate from activity centers located directly within Ålesund's city center, requiring no additional transport.
5. Hike Sukkertoppen (Sugar Top)
For an invigorating outdoor experience and spectacular views, I recommend the hike up Sukkertoppen. Though a moderate climb to its 314-meter summit, it offers truly rewarding 360-degree panoramas of the islands, fjords, and mountains surrounding Ålesund. It is generally less crowded than Mount Aksla, providing a more serene hiking experience.
Cost: The hike itself is free of charge.
Transport: Take Bus No. 1 or 602 from Ålesund city center to the Hessa area, getting off at 'Hessa Skole' or 'Hessaskaret Syd' (bus fare approx. 41.50 NOK via app or 66 NOK from driver). The trailhead is a short walk from the bus stop. A taxi from the city center to the Sukkertoppen area would cost between 170-210 NOK.
6. Take a Fjord Cruise to Geirangerfjord or Hjørundfjord
Embarking on a fjord cruise from Ålesund provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience Norway's iconic natural beauty. I found the journey into either the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord or the dramatic Hjørundfjord to be awe-inspiring, with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters creating unforgettable scenery.
Cost: A round trip cruise to Geirangerfjord typically starts from 1880 NOK for an approximately 8.5-hour tour. A cruise to Hjørundfjord is shorter, starting from 950 NOK for about a 6-hour journey. Discounts of around 30% may be available with an Ålesund Pass.
Transport: Cruises depart directly from the harbor in Ålesund, making it easily accessible from the city center.
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