When I packed my bags for my Erasmus adventure in Norway, I knew I was in for something different. What I didn’t expect was that the small coastal town of Ålesund would become such a memorable chapter in my life. Nestled among fjords, islands, and mountains, Ålesund is not just a destination—it’s an experience that blends natural wonders, rich architecture, and vibrant student life.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the highlights of Ålesund and its surroundings, while sharing glimpses of my six months living here as an Erasmus student.

Life as an Erasmus Student in Ålesund

Studying abroad in Ålesund was nothing short of transformative. The town may be small, but the student life was buzzing. From weekly events and international parties to cultural exchanges, there was always something happening.

I stayed in a building with students from all over the world—each dinner turned into a mini cultural festival with flavours and stories from different continents. Friendships formed quickly, bound by shared experiences of living far from home in such a unique corner of Europe.

And then there was the weather. Nothing could have prepared me for the contrasts of Norway’s seasons:

Dark, freezing winters, where daylight lasted just a few hours and the cold seemed endless.
Endless summer days, where the sun barely dipped below the horizon, turning nights into golden evenings perfect for hikes and long conversations by the sea.

This rhythm of extremes shaped daily life and made every moment feel even more special.

Top Things to Do in Ålesund

Even if you’re not a student, Ålesund offers plenty to explore. The city is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture, rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1904. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a fairy-tale of pastel-coloured houses and ornate details.

Aksla Viewpoint: Climb (or drive) up to Fjellstua for breath-taking panoramic views of the town, fjords, and surrounding mountains.
Ålesund Aquarium (Atlanterhavsparken): One of the largest saltwater aquariums in Northern Europe—great for families and marine enthusiasts.
Brosundet Canal: The picturesque harbour area, perfect for a stroll at sunset.
Local Cafés & Nordic Flavours: Don’t miss freshly baked pastries and locally roasted coffee. Seafood lovers will enjoy traditional Norwegian dishes like klippfisk (dried and salted cod).

Day Trips and Adventures Around Ålesund

One of the best parts about living in Ålesund was how easy it was to explore its surroundings. Each trip felt like discovering a secret world.

Ulsteinvik: A charming coastal town, smaller than Ålesund but with its own peaceful vibe. Perfect for a quiet day trip.

Runde Island: Known as the “Bird Island,” Runde is home to thousands of seabirds, including puffins. If you love nature and photography, this is a must.

Hoddevik Beach: Imagine surfing in Norway! This hidden gem on the Stadlandet peninsula offers one of the most scenic beaches in the country, surrounded by dramatic cliffs.

Hjørundfjorden: Less famous than Geirangerfjord but just as stunning, Hjørundfjorden is surrounded by the Sunnmøre Alps and offers amazing hiking and boat trips.

Geirangerfjord (Recommended): Although I couldn’t visit because it was off-season, I can’t leave it off this list. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of Norway’s most iconic fjords, with cascading waterfalls and dramatic cliffs.

Practical Travel Tips for Ålesund

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June–August) for long days, hiking, and easier travel; Winter (December–February) for snowy landscapes and cosy vibes.
Getting There: Ålesund has a small airport (Ålesund Airport, Vigra) with flights connecting to Oslo and other European cities. Buses and ferries link the town to nearby destinations.
Getting Around: The city is walkable, but renting a car makes exploring the fjords and islands much easier.
Budget Tips: Norway is expensive. Save by cooking your own meals, booking accommodation early, and taking advantage of student discounts if applicable.

Food & Where to Stay

Ålesund might be small, but it has plenty of cosy spots for food and lodging.

Try the Seafood: Fresh cod, salmon, and shrimp are staples here.
Student Eats: During Erasmus, my flatmates and I often cooked at home to save money—but we treated ourselves to the occasional café indulgence.
Accommodation: From stylish hotels like Hotel Brosundet to budget-friendly hostels and Airbnb’s, there’s something for every traveller.

Final Thoughts

My six months in Ålesund were more than just a study-abroad program—they were a lesson in embracing contrasts. From dark winters to endless summer light, quiet fjords to lively student gatherings, every day held something new.

Ålesund may be small, but it’s full of heart, history, and adventure. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying for months, this town and its surroundings will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

If you’re planning your trip, make sure to explore not only the city itself but also the incredible nature that surrounds it. And if you ever get the chance to study or live here—even for a short while—grab it. It might just change the way you see the world.