Welcome to Ålesund – a charming coastal town in the heart of Sunnmøre. Here, the sea meets the majestic Sunnmøre Alps, creating a landscape that will take your breath away. Ålesund blends coastal culture, architectural elegance, and spectacular nature in a magical way.

Art Nouveau, Sea and Mountains

Ålesund is often considered Norway’s most beautiful city – and for good reason. After the city fire of 1904, the entire city centre was rebuilt in the Art Nouveau style, resulting in a fairytale-like cityscape where towers, spires, and ornate facades are reflected in the waters of Brosundet. This unique architecture makes Ålesund a living monument to early 20th-century design and gives the city a character unlike any other in Norway. At the same time, Ålesund is a vibrant commercial hub and a perfect starting point for exploring Sunnmøre’s dramatic fjords and mountain landscapes.

Things to Experience in the City

In the city centre, you can stroll along Brosundet – the narrow canal winding through the heart of Ålesund – lined with historic warehouses, cafés, and small boutiques. Visit the Art Nouveau Centre and the KUBE Art Museum to dive into architecture and design history, or stop by the Ålesund Museum to learn about the city’s maritime heritage. For the best view, climb the 418 steps up Mount Aksla, where the Fjellstua viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas of the archipelago and the Sunnmøre Alps. Just outside the city lies Atlanterhavsparken – one of Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums – offering a fascinating glimpse into life beneath the waves. Along the waterfront, restaurants serve fresh seafood, and a vibrant cultural scene with festivals and concerts keeps the city lively all year round.

The Sunnmøre Alps and the Geirangerfjord

Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find spectacular nature. Here, dramatic mountains and idyllic islands await – perfect for hiking, skiing, or exploring by boat. The island of Godøy, with its iconic Alnes Lighthouse, offers a taste of Norway’s rugged coastline, while hikes in the Sunnmøre Alps reward you with views of deep fjords and sharp peaks. For many, a visit to the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord is an absolute highlight, with opportunities for both car and boat excursions. Whether you’re seeking peace by the sea or an adrenaline rush in the mountains, Ålesund gives you the very best of Norwegian nature – right outside your hotel door.

Restaurants and conferences

Ålesund offers a wide selection of restaurants and bars along the waterfront, serving fresh seafood in an atmosphere that reflects the city’s connection to the sea. In the evening, Ålesund transforms into a lively meeting place for both locals and visitors, blending maritime nostalgia with modern urban charm. When it comes to meetings and conferences, Ålesund provides excellent facilities – from small meeting rooms to larger conference venues – making it easy to combine business with culture and stunning natural surroundings.

Nearby destinations

Ulsteinvik