Best of Ålesund

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Ålesund

Ålesund, also known as the “fairytale city,” may be Norway’s prettiest city. The seafront views and Art Nouveau architecture make it an enchanting base from which to explore Sunnmøre's countless fjords, fishing villages, island gems, and mountains. Do so aboard a fjord cruise to Geirangerfjord or Hjørundfjord or a walk up the 418 steps to the Aksla Viewpoint looking out over the city.

Follow the footsteps of previous kimkim travelers out to the island of Runde, where there are about 150 human permanent inhabitants but more than 500,000 sea birds during the February through August nesting season, including about 100,000 pairs of puffins alongside great skuas, gannets, and shags. If you’re interested in a less feathery tale, learn about Ålesund’s history on a “from ashes to Art Nouveau” tour that explores the 1904 fire that burned down 850 houses and the creation of the city as it exists today.

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Kick the trip off with a sunset kayaking trip through the Stockholm archipelago

Scandinavian Fjord & Hiking Summer Adventure - 10 Days

Perfect for adventure seekers, this active 10-day summer itinerary explores Sweden and Norway's most scenic landscapes. Begin in Stockholm, where you'll paddle to Långholmen Island on a sunset kayaking tour before boarding a train to Oslo. Explore the Oslofjord's islands via scenic ferry and hiking trails, fly to coastal Ålesund, and ascend the Aksla viewpoint. Continue to Geiranger for kayaking and ziplining and conclude with an interactive aquarium experience.

You trip through the fjords features some of the country's loveliest boutique hotels (photo courtesy of Fjærland Fjordstove Hotel)

Luxury Escape to the Norwegian Fjords - 14 Days

Norway's most awe-inspiring spectacles are undoubtedly its fjords, which stretch across the country. This luxurious two-week itinerary will take you to some of the most scenic as you hop between elegant boutique hotels and waterfront lodges. Enjoy serene rowboat trips and kayaking on the Sognefjord, plus take a tour of the UNESCO-listed waterfront in Bergen. In between, you'll embark on mountain hikes, go cider tasting, unwind in floating saunas, and enjoy an authentic Viking dinner.

Hike Norway's Hidden Fjords - 8 Days

Hike through some of Norway's most spectacular landscapes on this 8-day trekking adventure. Based in the northwestern regions of Romsdalen and Sunnmøre, you'll scale the famous Troll Wall, kayak across tranquil fjords, find hidden waterfalls at Geirangerfjord, and summit the triangular peak of Slogen. With nights spent in historic hotels, local inns, and remote mountain huts, you'll have plenty of time for rest and relaxation between each day's exhilarating excursions.

Ålesund on the west coast is a gateway to many fjords

Discover Norway's Cities & Fjords - 9 Days

This summer itinerary encompasses a mix of fun travel modes for the ultimate Nordic adventure. It begins in Oslo, where you'll explore the fastest-growing capital in Europe on your own and with a local guide. Then take a scenic train west to hike with views of the Aurlandsfjord—a spectacular branch of the Sognefjord. From here, cruise to Bergen and Ålesund where you'll have quality time in each city—and surrounding fjords—before looping back to Oslo for one more night on the town.

Autumn in Norway: Bergen, Aurland, Oslo, Åndalsnes & Ålesund - 13 Days

This 13-day Nordic adventure delivers the highlights of western and central Norway in all their autumn glory. Begin in Bergen, a historic port city where you'll stroll cobbled streets and ride cable cars up to mountain lookout points. The next leg takes you to Norway's stunning fjords and on scenic hikes and train rides before wrapping up with food tours in Oslo, dinners at mountaintop restaurants, and day trips to rugged islands.

Experience the midnight sun of a Norwegian summer near Ålesund

Nordic Harmony: Ultimate Summer Journey to Norway, Iceland & Greenland - 21 Days

While there's something to be said for the snowy bliss of Nordic countries in winter, the best time to experience their full majesty is during the warmer months. So spend this summer enjoying three scenic northern nations, starting with a dinner cruise in Norway's dynamic capital of Oslo, followed by fjord tours, kayak trips, and mountain hikes. Then, fly north for a grand tour of Iceland, road-tripping to waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic beaches—you'll even hop over to Greenland for thrilling helicopter flights.

Kids will love meeting some of Norway's animals

Family Fun in Norway: Relaxed Cultural & Wildlife Adventure - 10 Days

Immerse your family in Norway's cultural history and native wildlife with this effortless 10-day trip. Travel back in time to the medieval ages as you and the kids explore life in centuries past at several living museums, including a 12th-century castle. Explore UNESCO-listed fjords, sail alongside waterfalls, and spend a day on the utterly remote and stunning Runde Island before finishing your trip in elegant Trondheim.

View on the Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Geiranger

Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger & Lom: Best Itinerary Ideas

Twelve days to two weeks is a great length for a Norway trip with stops in Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger, and Lom. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in 8 to 11 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Skei or Bergen. Get inspired with our Oslo, Aurland, Ålesund, Geiranger, and Lom trip ideas below.

Take in the stunning views of Norway's Geirangerfjord

Summer Road Trip: Mountains & Fjords - 14 Days

Steer a relaxing two-week course through Norway's spectacular landscapes from Jotunheimen National Park to the depths of Sognefjord, the country's deepest fjord. You'll enjoy the freedom of setting your own pace when visiting museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, not to mention plenty of opportunities to get out in nature and explore.

The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord where you'll spend three nights

Summer Road Trip: Mountains & Fjords - 12 Days

Steer a relaxing 12-day course through the highs and lows of Norway's spectacular landscapes from Jotunheimen National Park to the depths of Sognefjord, the country's deepest fjord. You'll enjoy the freedom of setting your own pace when visiting museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, not to mention plenty of opportunities to get out in nature and explore the wonders around you. Buckle up and pack your camera—this is going to be one gorgeous drive!

Take a train ride along Norway's peaceful River Rauma

Western Norway's Rivers, Islands & Fjords - 10 Days

Discover magnificent areas of western Norway with this action-packed 10-day summertime itinerary. Your adventure starts in the capital city of Oslo, followed by a train ride along the emerald-green River Rauma to the city of Ålesund, famous for its Art Nouveau architecture. Continue the journey to coastal islands and narrow fjords toward Bergen before ending your trip back in Oslo for one last night of Scandinavian fun.

Norway Outdoor Family Adventure: Hiking, Kayaking & Boating - 7 Days

Spend a week experiencing Norway's spectacular beauty up close on this outdoor-oriented family adventure. Head on kid-friendly hikes around fjords and up mountains, feel the spray of the Seven Sister waterfall on a kayak trip, and take a boat tour to a secluded section of the Sognefjord. All this, while sampling Norway's cuisine at local eateries and visiting museums and aquariums located in the country's most charming towns and villages.

Dramatic hairpin turns on the Trollstigen Road.

Norway Scenic Road Trip - 14 Days

Starting and ending in Oslo, this wide loop covers a staggering variety of landscapes where'll you drive through three of Norway's official scenic routes. First, make your way to a former Olympic village and two national parks loaded with wildlife, then head west for hiking and boating in the fjords. Stay two nights in the art nouveau city of Ålesund before you swing back around towards Jotunheimen National Park. Finish in the alpine village of Lom with one of the best restaurants and bakeries in Norway.

The pretty port city of Ålesund shines at dusk.

Western Norway Fjord Road Trip - 8 Days

Get ready to hit the open road on this self-drive adventure down Norway's stunning west coast. Starting in Bergen, you'll hike, bike, and take one of the world's steepest train rides through the country's villages, mountains, and fjords. Top off your well-rounded trip in charming Ålesund, a fairytale city renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture.

See charming Ålesund's Art Nouveau buildings

Western Norway & Oslo Cultural Adventure - 15 Days

Travel by train, hike mountains, boat along a fjord, and mountain bike down a valley on this 15-day journey that's perfect for active, adventure-seeking travelers. Soak up culture and creativity in Oslo before making an epic train journey to the west coast, where the real fun starts. You'll hike Jotunheim National Park, drive the spectacular Atlantic Ocean Road, ride the scenic Flåm Railway, see Art Nouveau houses in Ålesund, and zigzag along 11 twisting hairpin bends on the Trollstigen road.

Western Norway's Islands & Fjords - 9 Days

This 9-day adventure starts from Oslo where you'll catch a scenic train to get to Norway's western fjords. From here, spend a day exploring art nouveau architecture in Ålesund and then take an overnight cruise to Florø—your jumping-off point for fishing islands, outdoor activities, and Viking culture. Finish with two nights in UNESCO-listed Bergen, loaded with culture and restaurants.

Ålesund is considered Norway's prettiest city, and rightfully so.

Discover Norway by Train & Boat - 10 Days

This relaxing summer itinerary checks off Norway's three biggest cities, traveling by train, ferry, and fjord cruise for a true Scandinavian adventure. Spend a night in the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund, explore cultural sites and cool neighborhoods with a guide, and take advantage of great hiking, biking, and stand-up paddleboarding along the way.

Sail through the Geirangerfjord and get up close to waterfalls

Best of Western Norway - 11 Days

This family-friendly road trip covers a mix of popular and lesser-known destinations on Norway's stunning west coast. Start with a few days in Bergen to explore numerous cultural opportunities and easy hiking trails. Then, pick up your rental car and head north through distinct fishing communities to get to Ålesund. From here, choose your own activities as you slowly make your way to Solvorn where you'll stay at the oldest family-run hotel in the country before looping back to Bergen.

The Nordfjord is located between Ålesund and Bergen

Islands & Fjords in Western Norway - 13 Days

This scenic loop through Western Norway uses a variety of fun travel modes that beckon you to sit back and enjoy the magnificent scenery. Starting in Oslo, you'll ride a train along an emerald river to get to Ålesund. Spend a night in this art nouveau city before taking a Hurtigruten cruise through stunning fjords to get to Florø—your jumping-off point for fishing islands, outdoor activities, and Viking culture. Finish the adventure in UNESCO-listed Bergen before circling back to Oslo on the Flåm Railway.

The Nordfjord between Ålesund and Bergen

Western Norway's Rivers, Islands & Fjords - 11 Days

Traveling by train, boat, and coastal steamer, this summertime tour covers areas of Western Norway that are often overlooked by tourists. Start with a local tour of Oslo before boating along the River Rauma to Ålesund, known for its Art Nouveau architecture. From there, bike and hike on coastal islands, explore bustling Bergen, and ferry through both the Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord.

Stay a night along the Geirangerfjord between Bergen and Trondheim

Summer Road Trip: Oslo, Bergen & Trondheim - 12 Days

This journey highlights Norway's three biggest cities with scenic detours along the way. Start off in sophisticated Oslo before traveling by train and ferry to UNESCO-listed Bergen. From here, drive through fjord-side villages to Ålesund, known for its art nouveau architecture, and Kristiansund. Finish off in Trondheim with colorful wooden homes, café culture, and tree-lined streets for cycling.

Åndalsnes is your jumping off point for the region

Best of Northwest Norway - 13 Days

This stunning adventure travels to the heart of the Sunnmøre region in northwestern Norway. Start in up-and-coming Oslo and check out this exciting capital before boarding a train that runs along the emerald-green Rauma River. From Åndalsnes, begin the ultimate road trip through mountains, fishing villages, cities, and dramatic fjords with a slew of outdoor activities and national scenic routes, not to mention 11 hairpin turns on the 'Troll's Ladder'.

Discover Norway by Train and Boat: Oslo, Bergen, Aurland, and Trondheim - 12 Days

Check off Norway's three biggest cities while traveling by train, ferry, and fjordcruise on this 12-day adventure. Start off in the country's buzzing capital followed by several days in Bergen on the west coast, surrounded by seven mountains. From here, board the Hurtigruten—a mighty coastal steamer—stopping in the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund before sailing to Trondheim by way of the Geirangerfjord. Circle back to Oslo by train for one more night on the town.

Sail through the Geirangerfjord on the Hurtigruten

Discover Norway's Cities & Fjords - 14 Days

This zealous (yet relaxing) scenic 14-day trip checks off Norway's three biggest cities by train, ferry, and fjord cruise. Start in Norway's buzzing capital with its waterfront promenade before you take one of the steepest trains in the world to the village of Flåm. You'll ferry through Norway's longest fjord and explore Bergen independently and with a local guide. From here, board the Hurtigruten—a mighty coastal steamer—stopping in Ålesund for a night. Back on the Hurtigruten, you'll sail to Trondheim by way of the Geirangerfjord and then return to Oslo by train.

Look for waterfalls as you sail through the Geirangerfjord on the Hurtigruten.

Norway Fjords Summer Tour - 14 Days

There are nearly 1,200 fjords along Norway's western coast and this trip covers the cream of the crop — Lysefjord, Sognefjord, and Geirangerfjord — using a mix of fun travel modes to amp up the adventure factor. These majestic gems provide the setting for activities like hiking, biking, and sea kayaking. You'll explore everything from tiny fjord-side villages to diverse cities like Oslo, Bergen, Ålesund, and Trondheim.

Western Norway Fjords & Lofoten Islands - 15 Days

This 15-day Norway road trip explores the most beautiful fjords, mountains, and ocean scenes between Bergen and Ålesund before crossing the Arctic Circle to the Lofoten archipelago. Spend over two weeks hiking, boating, kayaking, wildlife-spotting, and feasting as you explore cool and creative cities and quiet fjord-side villages across Norway. This relaxed-pace itinerary is best in the summer months.

Cruise through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord on this adventure

Discover Norway's Cities & Fjords - 15 Days

Perfect for active adults, this exciting tour of Southern Norway incorporates famous fjords and the country's three most significant cities for an epic adventure. Starting in Oslo, you'll head west for a range of outdoor experiences along the Sognefjord. Next, explore Bergen and its seven mountains before boarding the Hurtigruten for several days at sea, stopping in Ålesund, a beautiful Art Nouveau city, and finishing in Trondheim with Viking culture and a 14th-century Gothic cathedral.

Discover the Lofoten village of Reine as you wind your way north on this 16-day road trip

Discover Norway's Southern Fjords & Northern Islands - 16 Days

Take advantage of Norway's long summer days with this self-drive adventure from the fjords of the south to the unspoiled nature and idyllic fishing villages of the Lofoten Islands. Set out from Bergen to kayak and cruise through the iconic fjords as you skip between charming towns like Flåm, Balestrand, and Geiranger. Then, fly north into the Arctic Circle to reach the Lofoten archipelago—where you'll hit the road again for island hopping, horseback riding, and whale watching in the land of the midnight sun.

Other popular travel destinations in Norway
Fjord Region · Oslo · Bergen · Northern Norway · Tromsø · Aurland · Flåm · Lofoten Islands · Balestrand · Mountain Region · Senja · Alta · Svolvær · Fjærland · Stavanger · Vesterålen · Trondheim · Lusterfjorden · Geilo · Geiranger · Reine · Åndalsnes · Lom · Bodø · Odda · Voss · Røros · Gudvangen · Kalvåg · Kirkenes · Florø · Karasjok · Sørlandet · Finse · Værlandet · Lyngen · Honningsvåg · Haugastøl · Valldal · Øye Norangsfjorde · Hjørundfjord · Dovrefjell

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