Things to do in  Alesund

Alesund’s own urban mountain, Aksla, lies east of the town. While this “mountain” is more of a picturesque hill at 590 feet (180 meters) above sea level, it’s the most popular scenic viewpoint in Alesund—a place with no shortage of vistas. Hike to the top for panoramic views of the town and surrounding islands, with the Sunnmøre Alps in the background.

Jutting right into the Norwegian Sea, Atlantic Sea Park (Atlanterhavsparken Aquarium) is one of Scandinavia's largest saltwater aquariums. With huge landscape tanks, touch pools, and activity pools, the aquarium showcases life on—and below—the Norwegian coast. Visitors will see salmon, seals, starfish, otters, penguins, and many more creatures, with plenty of opportunities for getting up close.

If ever a postcard-perfect Norwegian lighthouse exists, it's in the minuscule fishing village of Alnes on Godøya island, a short distance west of Alesund. Visit this picturesque 1876 lighthouse to view art exhibits dedicated to local and national artists in the old lightkeeper’s quarters and climb to the top to catch sweeping sea views.

The Fjellstua Viewpoint in Alesund is one of Norway’s most recognizable views. It’s 418 steps to the top of Mount Aksla, where phenomenal vistas of fjords, islands, and the Sunnmore Alps pop up in all directions. And there’s good news for the less stair-inclined: You can drive up to the top, too.

Built in Romanesque and Gothic styles, Borgund Church is a minor tourist attraction that showcases the long history of the craftsmanship of medieval Norway. While parts originate from a 12th century church, most of the building was constructed in 1904 after a fire destroyed the original structure.

Just a few blocks from the center of town, Alesund Church isn’t like Norway’s famous stave churches, but it’s an architectural gem of a different kind. Built in 1909, this stone church is covered in frescoes and stained glass. Gardens bloom outside the church in spring, making it a lovely stop on a sunny afternoon.

Giske Church dates back to the 12th century and is known locally for its simple white facade, 18th-century art, and historic architecture. Although the church is modest and located outside of Alesund’s small urban center, it remains a significant cultural and historical landmark with connections to the Giske family, who were influential in medieval Norway.

Dubbed by some as the “miracle house,” the Waldehuset Museum showcases the only home that didn’t go up in flames in the Ålesund fire of 1904 (at least, in the eastern half of town). Showcasing what late 19th-century life was like in Western Norway, the Waldehuset Museum is a tiny slice of time travel just a few blocks from downtown.

To catch Alesund’s art scene and cultural history, look no further than this one-two punch: the Jugendstilsenteret and Kunstmuseet KUBE. Through art nouveau at Jugendstilsenteret and contemporary art at Kunstmuseet KUBE, these two world-class institutions walk visitors through the city’s style, one era at a time. And it’s a literal walk—the museums are just steps from each other.

Alesund’s Storhaugen—“Big hill” in Norwegian—is a little-known town park with a fabulous view over the city and across the fjord. Not far from Alesund Church, this small park makes for a nice evening stroll—or first stop on your Alesund trip to get your bearings. Those who wander here will find plenty of benches, well-maintained paths, and views that rarely disappoint.