Things to do in Ålesund & around
Our mascot Macaroni - Mac - enjoying Ålesund from Aksla viewpoint
Nestled between fjords and mountains, Ålesund is a Norwegian postcard.
If you’ve been reading our blog, you probably know that Norway is one of our favorite destinations. And, while we could spend several years listing all the reasons we love it so much, just take a look at our videos and pictures: They speak for themselves!
While we usually prefer Arctic destinations such as the Lofoten, Svalbard, Alta, Tromsø or Bodø, we’ve decided to go a bit more “south” this time.
The fjord regions of Norway are very, very popular in summer, with dozens of cruise ships visiting every day. Since we prefer to selfishly keep Norway’s beauty to ourselves, we’ve decided to visit in winter.
Keep reading to explore Âlesund & Sunnmøre region with us and find out about the best things to do — in winter!
Ålesund attractions: Between fjords and mountain
Mount Aksla viewpoint
To get a good grasp of Ålesund’s exceptional location, start by climbing Mount Aksla. You can park your rental car there, but it’s only a short walk from the city center.
Isn’t a picturesque city? This viewpoint is especially stunning at sunset, or, for the lucky ones, with the northern lights.
Just note that this is not a usual occurrence at this latitude, unless the Kp index is really high. More on that in our article: Northern Lights for Dummies!
That being said, Ålesund is pretty at any time. Imagine a city stretching across the sea in the most beautiful manner, with Art Nouveau architecture, fjords and snow-caped mountains!
Penguin Trampoline tip:
When you arrive to Ålesund, make sure to drop by the tourist office: Destination Ålesund & Sunnmøre. Their friendly team will share their best insider tips to make the most of your stay and travel as sustainably as possible. And this tip goes for any destination: No online resources or guides compare to talking to the locals!
Art Nouveau architecture
Ålesund is renowned for its singular Art Nouveau architecture.
In 1904, a devastating fire destroyed most of the town. In the subsequent rebuilding efforts, architects and designers embraced the Art Nouveau style, resulting in a unique architectural landscape.
Just walk around and admire the colorful buildings, which beautifully contrast with the natural surroundings. In our opinion, it’s how you really get the vibe of a city!
Take some time to observe the intricate details on the facades and balconies.
Floating sauna
We just looove saunas. And it’s even better when they’re floating!
Many Norwegian cities offer a floating sauna in their harbor. For example, we love Pust in Bodø!
This time, we tried Svai, next to the Fisheries Museum. The sauna is equipped with a Bluetooth speaker, and the sea was at 4ºC in February. Our idea of heaven!
It’s the perfect option after a day exposed to the Norwegian mighty elements: snow, wind and sleet!
Make sure you book ahead as spaces are limited.
Back in time at Trankokeriet
If you go to Svai sauna, drop by Trankokeriet Antikk, a lovely antique shop in an old sea house. It’s like a trip back in time, and the owner is very sweet. You might find a perfect, unique souvenir!
Ålesund attractions and museums
Art Nouveau amateurs will appreciate the Art Nouveau Centre and Jugendstilsenteret museum.
Make sure you also check out one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks: Ålesund Kirke (church), known for its distinctive architecture featuring Gothic Revival and Art Nouveau elements.
If you’re more of a seafarer, head to Atlanterhavsparken (The Atlantic Sea-Park), one of Northern Europe's largest saltwater aquariums, including fish, seals, penguins, and sea birds.
You’ll also enjoy the Fisheries Musem, housed in an old fish-canning factory. (so gramable!) This museum showcases the history of Norway's fishing industry, with exhibits on fishing techniques, equipment, and the processing of fish, as well as learn about the role of fishing in Norwegian coastal communities.
Where to eat in Ålesund
It’s not cheap to eat out in Norway, but if you want to indulge in a fancy Norwegian dinner during your stay, head to the tourist office, They have a list of recommendations and will be happy to share their favorites!
We had a good “kaffekos” (Norwegian “fika”) at Walderhaug, and you can try the typical waffle and brunost cheese at cozy Racoon Coffee.
Make sure to check out our article on Arctic Foods for our best tips and personal favorites.
Ålesund accommodation
Ålesund offers a solid selection of hotels and rental apartments for all budgets. If you’d rather be in natural surroundings, you can find affordable rental apartments with a view within a 15-30 minutes by bus or rental car ride from the city. That’s the beauty of Norway!
A million dollar view for 35€/night
Traveling off season is always more affordable — read our best tips to travel cheaper — and we found a private accommodation for 35€/night with a fjord and mountain view! It was in Sula — a 20-minute drive from Ålesund or a little longer by bus — a great base to explore the city, the fjords and the mountains!
Winter in the fjords & the Sunnmøre Alps
Admiring fjord views
For amazing fjord views without the costly gondola ride, there are many viewpoints along Geiranger fjord and another less known, but spectacular fjord. Find out which one in our dedicated article on the Sunnmøre Alps and fjords!
In winter, you can avoid the herds of tourist buses and rental cars and appreciate the magical serenity and stillness. Enjoy the free meditation session!
Enjoying the snow in the Sunnmøre Alps
The majestic Sunnmøre Alps are a short ferry ride and drive from Ålesund and its nearby towns, and it would be a shame to miss them!
Winter sports enthusiasts will be in heaven in ski resorts like Stranda or Ørsta. You know, it’s where extreme skiers and snowboards race the white slopes down to the blue fjord!
Guided snow-shoe hikes are also recommended, with panoramic views over the surrounding fjords and mountains — weather allowing!
A word of warning: While Stranda gondola is great in summer, it’s not ideal for pedestrians in winter. You can ride it, but you’ll land in the middle of the slopes. And it’s not easy to get around at the top.
Traveling back in time in Øye
Helen from Destination Ålesund & Sunnmøre told us about the Hotel Union in Øye. Eli heard “old hotel from the 19th century”, and, of course, she was sold. Eli here: “What? I can’t resist vintage hotels!!!”
So, we decided to indulge and spend one night there. You can find out all about our experience in our article on the Sunnmøre Alps and fjords!
Spoiler alert: It was sooo worth it!
Hiking around Ålesund
Storhornet & Alnes
Spend a day on beautiful Godøy island!
Hike Storhornet in the morning, and walk around Alnes and the lighthouse in the afternoon. You might spot some surfers!
Cold water surfing is more and more popular, and you’ll find brave surfers in Alnes and Vigra.
More information on beaches around Ålesund and the Storhornet hike in our dedicated article: Hiking around Ålesund!
Runde
In season, Runde is a paradise for bird watchers. Off season, it’s an amazing hiking area! Trails are really well maintained, views are stunning, and the island has an irresistible “end of the world” vibe.
You’ll find all the details about Runde in our dedicated article: Hiking around Ålesund!
How to get to Ålesund
By plane
Ålesund has direct flights to most of the major cities in Norway, and some European destinations.
In our case, we booked the whole trip through Norwegian (Barcelona-Oslo-Ålesund).
By train or bus
You can take a direct bus from Oslo to Ålesund, or a combination of train and bus if you’re not in a rush!
By road
It’s quite a long drive from Oslo, but honestly, it’s worth renting a car in Norway. Any drive in this breathtaking country is a trip in itself! Between, tunnels, ferries and bridges — without mentioning the cows and sheep shilling in the middle of the warm concrete in summer — driving in Norway will teach you to be patient and just enjoy the journey.
Actually, your tip might be a lot longer than you expected, because you’re going to want to stop at every curve.
When driving in Norway, be prepared to “wow” at every curve
Eli’s favorite Norwegian artist is Aurora. Here are her top songs:
Ålesund is on your bucket list? Awesome! Keep traveling with our dedicated articles and videos:
