Alesund (Norway)

Alesund is among Norway's most picturesque fishing port tpwns. It is located at the mouth of Stor Fjord and is actually on two islands connected by bridges. Cruise ships dock close to downtown, so shopping and city touring can be done on foot. Tourists can take the 400 steps up to Kniven Overlook (Mt Aksla) for a spectacular panoramic view of the bay, surrounded by offshore islands and mountains. The town was rebuilt with stone (instead of wood) as a result of a 1904 fire. The city is rich in art nouveau architecture (turrets, towers, medieval facades).

Further out is outdoor Sunnmore Museum where guests can see a collection of boats and traditional farmhouses and the Medieval Museum which features a recreation of 10th century village. The Atlantic Ocean Marine Park is also on the outskirts with massive seascape tanks created into the coastline. Cruisers can also visit the Giske islands (burial mounds) and Godoy (lighthouse).

Alesund is a starting point for touring the hills of Sunnmore region, Norang valley, Oye glaciers and Runde island. The city dates from 9th century when Rollo (Rolf) Ganger built a castle nearby, but did not become a town until 1848.

Alesund cruise terminal