Things to do in Ålesund

Best of Ålesund

Ålesund’s distinctive character stems from its extensive Art Nouveau architecture, rebuilt following the catastrophic fire of 1904. This collection highlights the city's heritage through the Art Nouveau Centre and the marble-built Ålesund Church. Beyond architecture, the list includes the Atlantic Ocean Park, one of Northern Europe’s largest saltwater aquariums, and the historic Molja lighthouse. For panoramic views of the Sunnmøre Alps and the surrounding archipelago, the Rundskue observation tower on Mount Aksla provides a strategic vantage point overlooking the coastal townscape.

El Pantera / GFDL

The Atlantic Ocean Park

Large saltwater aquarium and marine-focused science center featuring an aquaculture visitor center. Exhibits focus on Norwegian and Atlantic coastal life through various marine displays and interactive activities.

Ferd Geisler / CC-BY-SA

Ålesund Church

Art Nouveau marble long church built in 1909 featuring a unique blend of neo-Romanesque and neo-Baroque styles. This active place of worship contains one of Norway's largest organs and extensive interior frescoes.

Art Nouveau Centre

Art museum and national competence center dedicated to the Art Nouveau architectural style. Authentic interiors and multimedia exhibitions document the city's 1904 fire and subsequent reconstruction.

DS / CC BY 2.5

Art Museum KUBE

Regional art museum for the county of Møre og Romsdal housed in a historic 1906 bank building. It features exhibitions on visual arts, design, and architecture with a focus on Nordic Art Nouveau and regional artists.

Ålesund Lighthouse

Five-meter tall historic harbor lighthouse.

Holger Hetzel / CC-BY-SA

Kaiser Wilhelm II Memorial

Obelisk memorial commemorating the significant aid provided by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany following the city fire of 1904. It serves as a historical marker of the international assistance received by the town.

Rundskue

Located at the summit of Mount Aksla, this historic observation tower provides 360-degree views of Ålesund's town center, the surrounding islands, and the Sunnmøre Alps. It is accessible via 418 steps from the town park and features an orientation plaque identifying nearby geographical landmarks.