Alesund Norway
Country: Norway · Region: Norwegian Fjords · Currency: Norwegian Krone
Ålesund is a compact port city on Norway's west coast, rebuilt in distinctive Art Nouveau architecture after a 1904 fire, and serves as the gateway to iconic fjords including Geirangerfjord and the Sunnmøre Alps. The cruise terminal is just minutes from the old city centre.
Top sights
Mt Aksla viewpoint, Art Nouveau Centre and Art Museum KUBE, Sunnmøre Museum, Atlantic Sea Park, Geirangerfjord, Ålesund church
Things to do
- Mt Aksla and Fjellstua
- A steep cliff viewpoint offering breathtaking views of local fjords and mountains, accessible via 418 steps, taxi, or sightseeing bus, with a restaurant at the top.
- Atlantic Sea Park (Atlanterhavsparken)
- The largest salt water aquarium in Northern Europe offering various activities including diving, located on Hessa island about 3 km west of the city centre.
- Art Nouveau Centre and Art Museum KUBE
- Housed in an old apothecary, this museum is dedicated to the Art Nouveau style used to rebuild Ålesund after the 1904 fire.
- Sunnmøre Museum
- An outdoor folk museum on 120 hectares featuring over 55 old houses from the past 300 years, a vast boat collection including Viking ship replicas, and the ancient Borgund Church.
Where to eat
- Sjøbua
- A renowned seafood restaurant serving dishes prepared from the daily catch of local fishermen, with fish kept in tanks for maximum freshness.
- XL Dinner
- The largest clipfish/bacalao restaurant in Northern Europe, located at Skaregata 1B.
Bars and nightlife
- Brosundet outdoor restaurant area
- A popular outdoor restaurant and drinking area by the bridge Hellebroa with views of the stunning Brosundet strait between two central islands.
Forecast for Alesund
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Weather in Alesund by month
Averages from 2015 to 2024, not a forecast. Within about two weeks of a date, the live forecast above is the one to trust.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rainfall | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 38°F | 31°F | 9.1 in | 21 |
| February | 39°F | 31°F | 6.9 in | 19 |
| March | 42°F | 33°F | 5.7 in | 17 |
| April | 47°F | 36°F | 5.0 in | 15 |
| May | 54°F | 43°F | 3.9 in | 15 |
| June | 60°F | 49°F | 4.3 in | 16 |
| July | 62°F | 52°F | 6.2 in | 19 |
| August | 63°F | 53°F | 6.9 in | 19 |
| September | 59°F | 49°F | 9.4 in | 19 |
| October | 51°F | 42°F | 9.9 in | 19 |
| November | 43°F | 36°F | 7.3 in | 17 |
| December | 39°F | 33°F | 10.1 in | 21 |
Getting around
Walk the compact old city centre (most attractions within 20 minutes) or use local buses; cruise ships dock just south of the centre near the bus station.
What to eat
Try local seafood specialties including clipfish and bacalao at restaurants like Sjøbua, or grab budget pizza and kebab for around 100 kr.
Tips
Climb the 418 steps of Mt Aksla for breathtaking views of fjords and mountains, or take a sightseeing tram up for the panorama.
Best for
Art Nouveau architecture, fjord scenery
More ports in Norwegian Fjords
Bergen · Flam · Geiranger · Honningsvag · Stavanger · Tromso