Aalesund

When to go: Summer vs. Winter light

Summer (May to September) is the main season. The days are long, the fjords are green, and hiking is possible. This is when the city is most alive.

Winter can be magical but dark and wet. However, if you want to ski in the Sunnmøre Alps or see the city covered in snow, it's an option. Just be prepared for limited daylight.

• Summer: Hiking, fjord cruises, midnight sun.
• Winter: Skiing, cozy fires, potential Northern Lights (rare).
• Shoulder season: May and September can be surprisingly nice.

Getting there: Island hopping

Ålesund Airport (AES) is located on the island of Vigra. The airport bus (Flybussen) is timed with flight arrivals and takes about 25 minutes to reach the city center. It's a scenic ride through undersea tunnels.

Taxis are available but expensive (around 500-700 NOK).

• Flybussen: Best value and convenient.
• Taxi: Expensive, use only if necessary.
• Car rental: Essential if you plan to explore the region.

Where to stay: By the water

The city center is compact. Staying near the Brosundet canal gives you the classic Ålesund views right out your window. There are several hotels converted from old warehouses.

If you have a car, you can stay further out, but parking in the center can be tricky.

• Brosundet: Iconic views and central location.
• City Center: Walking distance to everything.
• Camping: Available outside the city for budget travelers.

What to see: Steps and Style

The number one activity is climbing the 418 steps to the Fjellstua viewpoint on Mount Aksla. The view over the archipelago is world-famous. You can also drive up if you prefer.

Visit the Jugendstilsenteret to understand why the city looks the way it does. The Atlanterhavsparken (aquarium) is one of the best in Europe and is great for kids.

• Mount Aksla: The view you see on postcards.
• Jugendstilsenteret: Art Nouveau history.
• Atlanterhavsparken: massive saltwater aquarium.
• Alnes Lighthouse: A beautiful spot on a nearby island.

Food: Bacalao capital

Ålesund has a strong tradition of exporting clipfish (dried, salted cod). Bacalao is a staple dish here, often made with tomatoes and peppers. XL Diner is famous for serving it in multiple ways.

Fresh seafood is everywhere. For a quick bite, look for fish soup or fish cakes.

• Bacalao: The must-try local dish.
• Seafood: Always fresh and high quality.
• Coffee: Norwegians love their coffee; cafes are everywhere.

Getting around: Walk and Drive

The city center is very walkable. You don't need a car to see the main sights.

However, to reach the islands, the lighthouse, or the fjords, you will need a car or rely on buses/ferries. Public transport is good but less frequent in rural areas.

• Walking: Perfect for the town center.
• Car: Recommended for regional exploration.
• Bus/Ferry: Connects the islands.

Budget: Norway is pricey

Be prepared: Norway is one of the most expensive countries in the world. A main course in a restaurant will cost 250-400 NOK (€25-40). Alcohol is very expensive.

Save money by buying food at supermarkets (Kiwi, Rema 1000) and drinking tap water (it's delicious).

• Dining: Very high prices.
• Activities: Nature is free, museums have fees.
• Alcohol: Extremely expensive.

3 Days in Ålesund

Spend the first day in the city, climbing the steps and admiring the architecture. Day two is for the aquarium and the islands. Day three is for the fjords.

If the weather is bad, the aquarium and museums are great indoor options.

• Day 1: City walk, Jugendstilsenteret, Mount Aksla sunset.
• Day 2: Atlanterhavsparken and Alnes Lighthouse.
• Day 3: Day trip to Geirangerfjord or Hjørundfjord.

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