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The Top 5 Cruise Excursions in Ålesund, Norway

Writer's picture: George and DanGeorge and Dan

Ålesund, with its Art Nouveau architecture, stunning fjords, and surrounding islands, is one of Norway’s most enchanting cruise destinations. This charming coastal town has a little something for everyone - from history buffs and architecture lovers to outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to explore on land or water, Ålesund has you covered.


Aerial view of Ålesund, Norway; coastal city with mountains, blue sea. Text: "Norway Top 5 Ålesund Excursions" overlaid.

As with many cruise destinations, excursions booked through cruise lines can be on the pricier side. However, you can often save money by booking independently while still enjoying the same incredible experiences. To help you plan your day, here are the top 5 excursions to make the most of your time in Ålesund.


Scenic fjord view with green hills and houses. Text on dark banner reads "Check out our Fjords guide here" beside a tablet showing port guides.

Mount Aksla Viewpoint


For unbeatable panoramic views of Ålesund and its surrounding islands, a visit to Mount Aksla Viewpoint is a must. Climb the 418 steps from the town park to the top, or take the hop-on-hop-off bus or a taxi if you prefer a more leisurely route.


Aerial view of Alesund, Norway, shows colorful buildings by the water, a large cruise ship docked, mountains in the background, cloudy sky.

At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Ålesund’s colourful buildings, scattered islands, and the majestic Sunnmøre Alps in the background. There’s even a café at the top where you can relax with a coffee while soaking in the views. This is a free or low-cost excursion that’s perfect for all ages.




Ålesund Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus


Visitors can explore the charming city of Ålesund at their own pace with the Hop-On Hop-Off double-decker bus tour. This convenient and flexible option allows passengers to sit back and relax while passing through stunning landscapes and historical landmarks. Along the way, an engaging audio guide, available in seven languages, shares fascinating stories about the city’s history, including the devastating fire of 1904 that destroyed much of Ålesund and the impressive Art Nouveau reconstruction led by Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany.


Colorful waterfront buildings reflect in calm water, featuring sailboats. Text on a building reads "Hotel Brosundet." Tranquil mood.

The tour stops at some of Ålesund’s top attractions, including the Fjellstua viewpoint, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city, and the Ålesund Aquarium, one of Scandinavia’s largest saltwater aquariums. With unlimited hop-on and hop-off access throughout the day, travellers can easily explore the city’s architectural and cultural highlights in a way that suits their schedule, making this an enjoyable and stress-free way to discover Ålesund.




Fjord Cruise to Hjørundfjord


Experience the beauty of Norway’s fjords with a cruise to the spectacular Hjørundfjord departing from the heart of Ålesund. This scenic boat trip offers the perfect opportunity to admire the fjord’s majestic surroundings, including the towering peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps. With both indoor seating and an outdoor deck, guests can soak in the breathtaking views of charming villages like Trandal, Sæbø, and Urke as the boat glides through the tranquil waters.


The cruise includes a 60-minute stop at the picturesque village of Øye, home to the historic Hotel Union Øye, where royals and celebrities have stayed for centuries. Guests can explore the village, take in its serene atmosphere, and learn about its rich heritage. After the visit, the return journey to Ålesund offers a chance to relax and reflect on the unforgettable sights of this remarkable fjord.




Art Nouveau Walking Tour


Ålesund is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, and a walking tour of the town is one of the best ways to soak it all in. After a devastating fire in 1904, the town was rebuilt in this distinctive style, resulting in a fairytale-like atmosphere with ornate buildings, colourful facades, and intricate details at every turn.


Colorful buildings reflecting in a calm canal in Ålesund, Norway. Bright yellow, red, and blue facades create a vibrant, serene atmosphere.

Join a guided tour for fascinating stories about Ålesund’s history and architecture, or simply grab a map and explore independently. Highlights include the Jugendstilsenteret (Art Nouveau Centre) and the beautiful canals that wind through the town.



Trollstigen and Gubrandsjuvet


For those seeking a day of epic scenery, a trip to Trollstigen and Gudbrandsjuvet is an unforgettable adventure. Highlights of the tour include Gudbrandsjuvet, a dramatic 5-metre-wide, 20-metre-deep ravine, where guests can stroll across a scenic bridge. The adventure continues to Trollstigen, where visitors can admire the spectacular mountain road with its eleven hairpin turns. On the descent, there’s a photo stop at Stigefossen, a magnificent waterfall standing 240 metres tall. The final stop is at Trollveggen, Europe’s tallest vertical rock face, before the tour concludes with a leisurely drive through the picturesque town of Åndalsnes. This journey is a perfect way to experience the wonders of Norway’s natural fantasyland.


Winding mountain road cuts through lush green valley between rocky cliffs under a cloudy sky. Cars navigate hairpin turns. Serene and dramatic.

This excursion is a bit longer, so it’s ideal if you have a full day in port. Independent operators often offer tours that include both routes, giving you the chance to take in these iconic landscapes without the hefty cruise line price tag.



 

Ålesund is a destination that truly has it all – stunning natural landscapes, fascinating history, and unique architecture. Whether you’re admiring the views from Mount Aksla, cruising through fjords, or exploring the town’s Art Nouveau charm, there’s something here for everyone.


Remember, booking independently can save you money while offering the same, if not better, experiences. Let us know which Ålesund excursion is at the top of your list in the comments or on our socials – we’d love to hear from you!


Happy exploring!


George & Dan 🚢


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