Alesund

Planning Your Ålesund Trip: A Complete Guide

Essential Information

General

• Country: Norway
• Time Zone: GMT +2 (GMT +1 in winter)
• Language: Norwegian
• Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Weather and Climate

Understanding the weather in Ålesund will help you pack accordingly.

• January-February: Expect cold, dark, and snowy conditions with temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F).
• March-April: A transitional period with rising temperatures, but still cool. Be prepared for rain and occasional snow.
• May-June: Mild temperatures and longer daylight hours bring blossoming landscapes. Average temperature around 10°C (50°F).
• July-August: The warmest months, with average temperatures around 15°C (59°F). Great for outdoor adventures.
• September-October: Enjoy colorful autumn foliage, but expect cooler temperatures and more rainfall.
• November-December: Short days, cold weather, and potential snow create an ideal setting for Northern Lights viewing (weather permitting).

City Overview: Ålesund, the Art Nouveau Gem

Ålesund, located on Norway’s west coast, is famous for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture. The city was rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1904, resulting in a unique landscape of towers, spires, and intricate decorations. Its location among fjords and mountains offers incredible views. Ålesund provides easy access to famous attractions like the Geirangerfjord and Runde Island. It’s a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, offering museums, art galleries, and fantastic seafood. A walk along the harbor reveals its maritime history as an important fishing port.

Best Time to Visit Ålesund

Choosing the right time to visit will enhance your travel experience.

• Summer (June-August):
  • Pros: Warm weather, long daylight hours perfect for hiking and boat trips.
  • Cons: Peak tourist season means higher prices and more crowded attractions.
• Shoulder Seasons (May & September):
  • Pros: Fewer crowds, milder weather, and a good balance of prices and pleasant conditions.
  • Cons: Weather can be less predictable.
• Winter (November-February):
  • Pros: Opportunity to see the Northern Lights, fewer tourists, and a cozy winter atmosphere.
  • Cons: Cold temperatures, short daylight hours, and limited options for outdoor activities.

Getting to Ålesund & Visa Information

Plan your arrival and ensure you meet all entry requirements.

• Flights: Ålesund Airport, Vigra (AES) offers direct flights from several European cities. Search for cheap flights on Skyscanner or Google Flights.
• Trains: There’s no direct train to Ålesund. Take a train to Åndalsnes and then a bus.
• Visa Requirements: Norway is part of the Schengen Area. Check your visa requirements based on your nationality on the official Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website.
• Airport Transfers: Airport buses and taxis provide transfers to the city center.

Discover Ålesund: History, Culture, and Top Attractions

Fun Historical Fact

After the fire of 1904, Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany, a great admirer of Ålesund, played a crucial role in its reconstruction, providing financial and logistical support to rebuild the city in its distinctive Art Nouveau style.

Famous Personalities

Ålesund is the hometown of Nils Petter Molvær, a renowned jazz trumpeter.

Top 10 Attractions in Ålesund

Don’t miss these highlights when visiting Ålesund!

• Aksla Viewpoint:
  • Description: Enjoy panoramic views of Ålesund, the surrounding islands, and fjords.
  • Address: Fjellstua, Ålesund, Norway
• Jugendstilsenteret/Art Nouveau Centre:
  • Description: A museum dedicated to Ålesund’s Art Nouveau architecture.
  • Address: Apotekergata 16, 6004 Ålesund, Norway
• Atlantic Sea Park (Atlanterhavsparken):
  • Description: One of Northern Europe’s largest aquariums showcasing local marine life.
  • Address: Tueneset, 6006 Ålesund, Norway
• Sunnmøre Museum:
  • Description: An open-air museum with historical buildings depicting life in the Sunnmøre region.
  • Address: Borgundgavlen, 6015 Ålesund, Norway
• Ålesund Church:
  • Description: A beautiful stone church rebuilt after the great fire.
  • Address: Kirkegata 2, 6004 Ålesund, Norway
• Parken Kulturhus:
  • Description: A venue for cultural events, concerts, and performances.
  • Address: Richard Wallems gate 4, 6005 Ålesund, Norway
• Kniven Viewpoint:
  • Description: Another excellent spot for panoramic city and area views, accessible via hiking trails from Aksla.
  • Address: Accessible via hiking trails from Aksla
• Fjord Cruise on the Geirangerfjord:
  • Description: Take a day trip to experience one of Norway’s most famous fjords.
  • Address: Cruises depart from Ålesund’s main harbor.
• Alnes Lighthouse:
  • Description: A historic lighthouse on Godøy island with fantastic coastal views.
  • Address: Alnes Fyr, Alnes, 6055 Godøya, Norway
• Runde Island Bird Sanctuary:
  • Description: A paradise for birdwatchers, known for its puffin colony.
  • Address: Runde, 6096 Runde, Norway

Hidden Gems in Ålesund

Explore these lesser-known spots for a unique experience.

• Mount Sukkertoppen (Sugar Top Mountain):
  • Description: A challenging hike with amazing views of Ålesund.
  • Address: Accessible via hiking trails from the city center.
• The Fishing Museum (Fiskerimuseet):
  • Description: A museum showing the region’s fishing history.
  • Address: Molovegen 10, 6004 Ålesund, Norway
• Molja Lighthouse (Molja Fyr):
  • Description: A picturesque lighthouse at the harbor entrance, even available for overnight stays.
  • Address: Molovegen, Ålesund, Norway

Local Festivals & Events

Experience Ålesund’s culture through these events.

• Ålesund Boat Festival (Båtfestivalen):
  • Description: An annual boat festival with boat shows, maritime activities, and entertainment.
• Jugendfest:
  • Description: A festival celebrating Ålesund’s Art Nouveau heritage with music, dance, and art exhibitions.
• The Norwegian Food Festival (Matfestivalen):
  • Description: A food festival in August showcasing local produce and culinary delights.

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

Extend your trip with these nearby destinations.

• Geirangerfjord (1.5-2 hours drive): A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Norway’s most breathtaking fjords. Book a guided tour on Viator or GetYourGuide.
• Runde Island (1.5 hours drive): Famous for its incredible birdlife, especially puffins.
• Hjørundfjord (2-2.5 hours drive): A quieter, equally stunning fjord known for its dramatic mountains.

Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places

Capture the beauty of Ålesund at these locations.

• Aksla Viewpoint: For panoramic city and fjord views.
• Alnes Lighthouse: For scenic coastal landscapes.
• Jugendstilsenteret: For architectural details and Art Nouveau design.
• Molja Lighthouse: For a unique harbor shot.
• Apotekergata (main street): For colorful Art Nouveau buildings.

Practical Information for Your Ålesund Visit

Recommended Stay Duration

3-4 days is perfect for exploring Ålesund and taking a day trip.

Top Places to Stay (by Budget)

Find the perfect accommodation for your budget.

Budget

• Ålesund Vandrerhjem Hostel:
  • Address: Notenesgata 17, 6002 Ålesund, Norway
• First Camp Ålesund – Topcamp Solvika:
  • Address: Solvika, 6265 Vatne, Norway

Mid-Range

• Hotel Brosundet:
  • Address: Apotekergata 5, 6004 Ålesund, Norway
• Scandic Parken Ålesund:
  • Address: Storgata 16, 6002 Ålesund, Norway
• Quality Hotel Waterfront Ålesund:
  • Address: Nedre Strandgate 25, 6004 Ålesund, Norway

Luxury

• Storfjord Hotel:
  • Address: Glomset, 6260 Skodje, Norway (Slightly outside Ålesund)
• Hotel Union Øye:
  • Address: Øye, 6218 Norangsfjorden, Norway (Requires travel from Ålesund)

Getting Around the City

Navigate Ålesund with ease using these transportation options.

• Public Transport: Local buses are available.
• Taxis: Readily available in the city center.
• Walking: Ålesund is compact and walkable.
• Bikes: Bike rentals are available for exploring the area.

Preparing for Your Experience

Pack smart and be prepared for your trip.

• Layers: The weather is unpredictable.
• Waterproof Jacket: Essential for rain and wind.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring and hiking.
• Camera: To capture the scenery.

Useful Apps for Travelers

Enhance your trip with these helpful apps.

• YR: For accurate weather forecasts.
• Google Maps: For navigation.

Local Tips, Safety, and Etiquette

Be respectful and aware of your surroundings.

• Do: Be polite and learn basic Norwegian phrases.
• Don’t: Be overly loud or litter.
• Scams: Generally safe, but be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.

Food, Fun & Finds in Ålesund

Top Restaurants in Ålesund

Indulge in local flavors at these recommended restaurants.

• XL Diner:
  • Description: Specializes in bacalao (cod stew).
  • Address: Notenesgata 6, 6002 Ålesund, Norway
  • Location: City center
• Sjøbua:
  • Description: Seafood restaurant with fresh catches.
  • Address: Brunholmgata 1, 6004 Ålesund, Norway
  • Location: Harbor area

Must-Try Local Dishes

Don’t leave without trying these Norwegian specialties.

• Bacalao: Traditional cod stew.
• Seafood: Fresh fish, shrimp, and mussels.
• Brunost: Brown cheese.

Nightlife & Entertainment

Experience Ålesund’s nightlife.

• Mona Lisa Huset:
  • Description: Popular bar and nightclub.
  • Address: Kongens gate 30, 6002 Ålesund, Norway
  • Location: City center
• Ankeret Bar:
  • Description: Cosy bar with a good selection of beers and spirits.
  • Address: Apotekergata 3, 6004 Ålesund, Norway
  • Location: City center

Souvenirs: What to Buy in Ålesund

Take home a piece of Ålesund.

• Local Crafts: Hand-knitted sweaters, wooden carvings.
• Seafood Products: Smoked salmon, dried fish.
• Art Nouveau Souvenirs: Inspired by the city’s architecture.
• Destinasjon Ålesund & Geiranger Tourist Information:
  • Description: Tourist shop offering locally made gifts and souvenirs.
  • Address: Keiser Wilhelms gate 31, 6003 Ålesund, Norway
  • Location: City center