Alesund – One of the Cutest Towns in Norway

Do you like architecture? Both old and older? Then you will love Alesund, Norway.

Ålesund, is built on a row of islands extending out into the ocean and is most famous for its beautiful architecture.

This was the 7^th stop on our coastal Norway cruise on the Holland America Koningsdam.

With only one day to spend in Alesund Norway, I focused on the architecture in the town, from the top of the mountain and at the historical open-air museum.

Art Nouveau Architecture

In 1904 wooden structures made up the majority of Ålesund homes. Unfortunately, a fire destroyed much of the city. Subsequently, they brought in over 50 architects from all over the country to design a new city. They decided to re-build in the popular style of the time, Art Nouveau. This was an ornamental style of art that flourished between about 1890 and 1910 throughout Europe and the United States which utilized stronger materials like brick and mortar.

Examples of the Art Nouveau era can be found all over Ålesund. Ornate balconies and spires adorn buildings and decorative archways and doors are a common sight.

Aksla Viewpoint

In Ålesund you can visit the Aksla viewpoint from the Town Park, going up Town Mountain. There are several ways to get there: walk the 418 steps from the Town Park, go by car, take the tourist train.

If you are active and healthy, the stairs should take 10-20 minutes with stops along the way to enjoy the views. We took a bus as part of a tour.

From the Aksla Viewpoint platform there are panoramic views of Alesund’s architecture, the surrounding archipelago (a chain or group of islands scattered in lakes, rivers, or the ocean) and fjords as well as the amazing Sunnmøre Alps. In addition, there is an outdoor restaurant, café, near the platform. 

Sunnmore Museum in Alesund Norway

The Sunmore Museum is an open-air museum with its vast collection of 55 old and distinct houses. While walking between these houses I felt as I was back in time seeing how people lived in earlier times.

Besides the picturesque houses there are indoor exhibitions that give insight into the cultural and architectural history of Sunnmore.

In the main building there are exhibitions on archaeology and culture in the Sunnmore region which gave me insight into the life of the people who have inhabited this area for several thousand years.

There is also a fascinating collection of replicas of Viking ships. Moreover, the beautiful area surrounding the museum is also excellent for walks.

Summary – Alesund Norway

Due to its art nouveau architecture, Alesund, Norway, is one of the cutest cities in Norway. Step back in time to the days of the Vikings and imagine what life in this colorful town filled with history.