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In my usual attempt of “seeing it all,” I have compiled the best things to see and do to make the most of your time in Ålesund. This complete guide will share all the quaint town of Ålesund has to offer. And now, in no particular order, let’s explore one of Norway’s most beautiful town!
10+ Best Things to See and Do in Ålesund
1. Art Nouveau Architecture
The minute you arrive in Ålesund, you’ll notice it’s distinct architecture that sets it apart from the rest. This eye-catching art style is a result of the town having to rebuild after a fire in 1904 burned the original wood buildings. As you stroll through the streets, you can admire the intricate details, organic shapes, and vibrant colors that characterize Art Nouveau. Some of the best areas to spot this unique architecture are:
• Jugendstilsenteret (Art Nouveau Centre): This museum, formerly a pharmacy, offers an in-depth look at the Art Nouveau movement in Ålesund. It showcases beautiful interiors and exhibits including textiles and vintage ceramics. After completing your visit, make your way next door to KUBE, where you’ll find a gallery exhibiting contemporary Norwegian art.
• Brosundet Canal: This is the picturesque area situated in the heart of town. Here you will find beautifully preserved buildings lining the canal that have been repurposed from their warehouse days. I recommend to continue walking behind the buildings lining the canal to find Apotekergata, and/or making your way to Kongens Gate that is found in front of Byparken on the opposite side of the canal. Both offer great paths to continue exploring the city.
2. Bybadet Water Park
A great indoor activity, and especially for those traveling with kiddos, is the indoor water park. Located in the city center near Byparken, the facility is equipped with a variety of pools for your preference. These include family and whirlpools, various slides, diving towers, and even a café area. The facility is kept at comfortable southern temperatures which make this a great way to escape the infamous cold or rainy days in Norway.
3. Aksla Viewpoint via 4. Akslatrappa
(Start Point: Bottom at Byparken or Top at Fjellstua)
For one of the best panoramic views of Ålesund, make your way to Aksla Viewpoint. There are several ways to get there that include walking up Akslatrappa (the 418 stairs via Byparken,) taking the city bus/train, or driving to Fjellstua at the top and taking the stairs down. For the adventurers, there’s even an option to climb and scale Aksla via Ferrata.
Starting from Byparken, Ålesund’s city park, you’ll see the culture center (Parken Kulturhus) that borders the street and park. This is where concerts and theatrical performances are hosted. Further inside you’ll spot statues, a bridge, and even a small waterfall area in front of the initial stair climb.
I promise, the incline looks far worse than what is really is. And, this is Norway, so there’s an abundance of rest areas along the way for you to catch your breath while enjoying the stunning views that get better with each step. About half-way up is the Byrampen platform that juts out over the mountain side and offers a bit of an adrenaline rush.
Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Ålesund, the surrounding islands, and the majestic mountains that make up the dreamy fjords. Here you can grab a quick bite or cup of Joe at the Fjellstua restaurant while enjoying the unobstructed views over Ålesund.
If you still have any energy left, you can explore the nature trails that lead to several other lookout points, water areas, statues, and even an exercise station. Whichever you chose, all offer amazing views for days. Of course, this can be completed in reverse order, starting off at the top, near Fjestulla, to make the stairs less demanding.
5. Molja Lighthouse (Molja Fyr)
This is not your average lighthouse by any means! It has been converted into a hotel room that can be rented nightly through Hotel Brosundet. This unique stay is popular with newlyweds who choose to spend their first married night in all of the measured 12 squared meters/129 squared feet. Talk about intimate!
Fret not, no reservation required to enjoy the pier walkway that offers gorgeous waterfront views of the town with kayakers and ferries passing by the inlet. Don’t miss the Fish Museum at the pier entrance or the fascinating sunsets.
6. Storhaugen Viewpoint
7. Ålesund Church
Returning towards the exquisite yellow building, you can turn right and follow signs for the town church. It boasts impressive stonework and stained-glass windows that were rebuilt after the fire. Be mindful of a 50 NOK/5 USD charge to enter. Otherwise, you can admire the church from the outside grounds as you return to the city center to continue exploring.
8. Sunnmøre Museum
Perfect for history and culture enthusiast, this open-air museum just outside the town center, sheds light into the region’s history and culture. Allowing you to step back in time, the Sunnmøre Museum features a collection of over 50 historic buildings that you can wander through, boat replicas with one authentic specimen over 1,000 years old, and artifacts to provide a fascinating insight into the way of life in the Sunnmøre region over the centuries. On the same site is the Medieval Age Museum (Middelaldermuseet) that details archeological exploration in the region.
9. Ålesund Sea-Park (Atlanterhavsparken)
Built around a natural rock outcrop on the outskirts of town, you’ll find one of the largest saltwater aquariums in Northern Europe and the biggest seal enclosure in all of Europe. Some of the aquarium highlights include exhibits showcasing the local marine species, interactive displays, and even a touch pool. This is a fantastic destination for families, marine life enthusiasts, conservationist or the perfect alternative activity for a rainy day.
BONUS: Depending on your interest, right by the aquarium are several nature trails that can easily be explored just a stone’s throw from the aquarium that you’ll have passed at the entryway. These include flat and incline paths depending on your preference that are all relatively short.
10. Hiking to Sugar Loaf Mountain (Sukkertoppen)
If you decide to do this activity, please be mindful of the hike’s residential location. You can take the city bus or, if driving, the nearby school allows parking after school hours with ample spots to avoid blocking the narrow one-way streets. This is where I parked and then walked towards the trailhead that has posted signs.
Let’s Plan Your Ålesund Adventure
And that completes the ultimate list of what to see & do in Ålesund, Norway. While these sights and activities will keep you more than busy, there are of course, an abundance of additional attractions to take advantage of should time permit. These range from kayaking and fjord tours to fishing and ferry trips to nearby islands. Interested in the best day trips from Ålesund? Check out my recommended top trips to take from Ålesund here. No matter what you choose, to stay and play or explore beyond, you’re bound to find jaw dropping views at every turn.
Not sure how you’ll get around? While most of these sights and activities are within walking distance, you can opt for the Ålesund Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour, that will ensure you don’t miss a thing. Another option, my preferred method, is to rent a car. This way you can go wherever your heart desires- and pull over on your watch to secure that perfect photo! Get ready to adventure by securing your spot and exploring all the available tours here.
Now don’t be coy! Do you agree with Ålesund being Norway’s most beautiful town? Let me know what you think and if you’ve visited any of these attractions! Do tell, as I love good travel story!
